Book Review | THE LAND OF LOST THINGS by John Connolly

THE LAND OF LOST THINGS
BY JOHN CONNOLLY | PUBLICATION: SEPTEMBER 19, 2023
ATRIA/EMILY BESTLER BOOKS | GENRE: FANTASY
RATING: ★★★★★

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Twice upon a time - for that is how some stories should continue . . .

Phoebe, an eight-year-old girl, lies comatose following a car accident. She is a body without a spirit, a stolen child. Ceres, her mother, can only sit by her bedside and read aloud to Phoebe the fairy stories she loves in the hope they might summon her back to this world.

But it is hard to keep faith, so very hard.

Now an old house on the hospital grounds, a property connected to a book written by a vanished author, is calling to Ceres. Something wants her to enter, and to journey - to a land coloured by the memories of Ceres's childhood, and the folklore beloved of her father, to a land of witches and dryads, giants and mandrakes; to a land where old enemies are watching, and waiting...

The Land of Lost Things.

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The Stories That Bind

John Connolly's THE LAND OF LOST THINGS articulately illustrates the boundless realms of imagination and the profound impact of storytelling. This novel is not just a journey through the fantastical world of Elsewhere but also a deep dive into the human experience, encapsulating the essence of life's myriad facets—joy, sorrow, courage, and hope.

Connolly crafts a narrative that is as intricate as it is enchanting, weaving a tale within a tale that captivates the reader's mind and heart. The protagonist, Ceres, embodies the strength and resilience of a mother's love, a theme that resonates deeply with anyone who has faced the trials of parenthood and that keen pain of loss.

The novel's rich language and vivid descriptions invite readers to lose themselves in a world where the lines between reality and fiction blur, highlighting the power of stories to provide solace and understanding in times of hardship. Connolly's work is a celebration of the written word and its ability to connect us to the most profound parts of ourselves and others.

THE LAND OF LOST THINGS is a reflection on the stories we tell and the lives we lead. It reminds us that every life is a story worth telling, filled with its own unique spirit and hope. For those who cherish complex narratives and the magic that language holds, Connolly's novel is a treasure trove of inspiration and a beautiful reminder of the enduring bond between readers and writers.

The Book of Lost Things
The Museum of Literary Souls

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About the Author:

    

John Connolly is the author of the #1 internationally bestselling Charlie Parker thrillers series, The Book of Lost Things and its sequel The Land of Lost Things, the Samuel Johnson Trilogy for younger readers, and (with Jennifer Ridyard) the Chronicles of the Invaders series. He lives in Dublin, Ireland. For more information, see his website at JohnConnollyBooks.com, or follow him on Twitter @JConnollyBooks. Photograph by Mark Condren

*Thanks to Simon & Schuster CA for the printed ARC
in exchange for this unbiased review.

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Book Review | THE ROSEWOOD HUNT by Mackenzie Reed

THE ROSEWOOD HUNT
BY MACKENZIE REED | PUBLICATION: OCTOBER 31, 2023
HARPER TEEN | GENRE: YA FICTION
RATING: ★★★

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Lily Rosewood dreams of taking over her family's company one day. Her grandmother, Rosewood Inc's current chair, has always encouraged her, and Lily can't wait for Gram to teach her everything she needs to know to run the business.

But then Gram dies suddenly, and Lily's world is upended. When it's revealed that Gram's quarter of a billion dollar fortune is missing, Lily can't fathom what her future will hold now.

Even in death, Gram has a few tricks up her couture sleeve. A last letter from her with a cryptic clue sends Lily and three other teens on a treasure hunt that could change their lives forever-if they can survive it. And if they pull it off, they may be rewarded with more than just money. But they're not the only ones hunting for Gram's treasure, and soon the hunt becomes more dangerous than they ever could have imagined.

Irresistible intrigue, captivating suspense, a swoony friends-to- rivals-to-lovers romance, and heartbreaking betrayal drive this thrilling debut novel to its explosive end.

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High Fashion and Treasure Hunt

THE ROSEWOOD HUNT by Mackenzie Reed seems to have captured the essence of a classic young adult mystery, blending family drama, secrets, and a high-stakes treasure hunt. The protagonist, Lily Rosewood, is thrust into an unexpected adventure, navigating riddles and challenges left by her late grandmother to uncover a hidden fortune.

This narrative choice effectively creates a dynamic plot that keeps readers engaged. The novel also touches on deeper themes such as mental health, though some readers, like me, feel these could have been explored more thoroughly. It's quite common for adult readers to find joy in the young adult (YA) genre, with its often fast-paced storytelling and relatable themes. While the allure of glamour and rich language can be enchanting, it's understandable that I crave more substance in the form of tension and a gripping plot. I guess it's all about finding that perfect balance that resonates with my reading preferences.

Despite this, THE ROSEWOOD HUNT has been well-received, with its mix of suspense, humor, and the portrayal of strong friendships resonating with many, particularly those who are fans of the YA mystery genre. It's interesting to note that while the treasure hunt elements might be predictable, the journey and character interactions provide a compelling read. Mackenzie Reed's debut has set a promising stage for her presence in young adult fiction, and it will be intriguing to see how her storytelling evolves in future works.

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About the Author:

Mackenzie Reed is the author of The Rosewood Hunt and The Wilde Trials. She cultivated her love of storytelling at Nazareth College, where she graduated with a BA in communication and media and shifted her focus from songwriting to novel writing. A native and resident of Rochester, New York, she loves going for brainstorming walks when the weather’s behaving and spending time with her family. In the sparse moments she’s not writing or daydreaming about her next book, she’s usually winging her eyeliner and hunting for the best slice of pizza in town.
Visit her online at mackenziemreed.com.

*Thanks to HarperCollinsCA and Netgalley for the egalley in exchange for this unbiased review.

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Book Review| THE SPACE BETWEEN HERE & NOW by Sarah Suk

THE SPACE BETWEEN HERE & NOW
BY SARAH SUK | PUBLICATION: OCTOBER 31, 2023
QUILL TREE BOOKS | GENRE: YA FICTION
RATING: ★★★★

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Seventeen-year-old Aimee Roh has Sensory Time Warp Syndrome, a rare condition that causes her to time travel to a moment in her life when she smells something linked to that memory. Her dad is convinced she’ll simply grow out of it if she tries hard enough, but Aimee’s fear of vanishing at random has kept her from living a normal life.

When Aimee disappears for nine hours into a memory of her estranged mom—a moment Aimee has never remembered before—she becomes distraught. Not only was this her longest disappearance yet, but the memory doesn’t match up with the story of how her mom left—at least, not the version she’s always heard from her dad.

Desperate for answers, Aimee travels to Korea, where she unravels the mystery of her memories, the truth about her mother, and the reason she keeps returning to certain moments in her life. Along the way, she realizes she’ll need to reconcile her past in order to save her present.

From acclaimed author Sarah Suk comes an aching, powerful exploration of memory, grief, and the painful silences we must overcome to discover our truest selves.

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Intricacies of Time Travel

Time travel has been an appealing theme in both books and movies for generations, often portrayed as an exciting and adventurous phenomenon. However, in Sarah Suk's novel THE SPACE BETWEEN HERE & NOW, time travel takes on a unique and poignant twist. The protagonist, Aimee Roh, suffers from Sensory Time Warp Syndrome (STWS), a fictional medical condition that causes her to physically travel back to memories when triggered by specific scents.

The novel delves deep into the emotional and psychological impact of this condition on Aimee's life. Unlike the typical adventurous time-traveling hero, Aimee's experiences are fraught with challenges and complications that mirror those faced by individuals with chronic conditions in the real world. The narrative explores themes of ableism and the ignorance that people with invisible disabilities often encounter. Aimee's struggle is not just with her condition but also with the societal pressures and misconceptions that come with it.

THE SPACE BETWEEN HERE & NOW is a story about family, identity, and the search for belonging, more than just another science fiction tale. Aimee's journey to find her mother, who disappeared when she was young, and her efforts to connect with her father, create a rich tapestry of family dynamics and secrets. The time travel element is not merely a plot device but a means to explore the depths of familial relationships and the longing for connection.

Critics have praised Suk's writing for its ability to weave the time travel aspect seamlessly into the narrative, enhancing the story's emotional core rather than overshadowing it. The novel has been described as evocative and original, with a quietly moving story that resonates with readers. While some readers wished for a more polished ending, the overall consensus is that the premise is solid, and the storytelling is compelling.

THE SPACE BETWEEN HERE & NOW stands out in the young adult genre for its thoughtful approach to the time travel trope and its sensitive portrayal of complex emotional themes. Thanks to Suk's skill as a writer and her ability to craft a narrative that is both imaginative and grounded in the realities of human experience. For those interested in a fresh take on time travel and a deep dive into the intricacies of memory and grief, this novel is must-read.

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About the Author:

Sarah Suk (pronounced like soup with a K) lives in Vancouver, Canada, where she writes stories and admires mountains. She is the author of the young adult novels Meet Me at Blue Hour, The Space between Here & Now, and Made in Korea as well as the cowriter of John Cho’s middle grade novel Troublemaker. When she’s not writing, you can find her taking film photos or eating a bowl of bingsu. You can visit Sarah online at sarahsuk.com.
Photo was copied from the publisher's site, no copyright infringement intended.

*Thanks to HarperCollins and Netgalley for the egalley in exchange for this unbiased review.

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Wednesday Spotlight | WHAT WE KEPT TO OURSELVES by Nancy Jooyoun Kim

About the Book:

WHAT WE KEPT TO OURSELVES
BY NANCY JOOYOUN KIM | PUBLICATION: OCTOBER 10, 2023
ATRIA BOOKS | GENRE: HISTORICAL FICTION

The New York Times bestselling author of the Reese’s Book Club pick The Last Story of Mina Lee returns with a timely and surprising new novel about a family’s search for answers following the disappearance of their mother.

1999: The Kim family is struggling to move on after their mother, Sunny, vanished a year ago. Sixty-one-year-old John Kim feels more isolated from his grown children, Anastasia and Ronald, than ever before. But one evening, their fragile lives are further upended when John finds the body of a stranger in the backyard, carrying a letter to Sunny, leaving the family with more questions than ever about the stranger’s history and possible connections to their mother.

1977: Sunny is pregnant and has just moved to Los Angeles from Korea with her aloof and often-absent husband. America is not turning out the way she had dreamed it to be, and the loneliness and isolation are broken only by a fateful encounter at a bus stop. The unexpected connection spans the decades and echoes into the family’s lives in the present as they uncover devastating secrets that put not only everything they thought they knew about their mother but their very lives at risk.

Both a riveting page-turner and moving family story, What We Kept to Ourselves masterfully explores the consequences of secrets between parents and children, hus­bands and wives. It is the story of one unforgettable family’s search for home when all seems lost, and a powerful meditation on identity, migration, and what it means to dream in America.

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About the Author:

Nancy Jooyoun Kim is the New York Times bestselling author of What We Kept to Ourselves and The Last Story of Mina Lee, a Reese’s Book Club pick. Born and raised in Los Angeles, she now lives in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Photograph by Andria Lo.

*Big thanks to Simon & Schuster for the Edelweiss access. This is a free ad.

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Book Review | THE FASCINATION by Essie Fox

THE FASCINATION
BY ESSIE FOX | PUBLICATION: JUNE 22, 2023
ORENDA BOOKS | GENRE: GOTHIC
RATING: ★★★★

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Victorian England. A world of rural fairgrounds and glamorous London theatres. A world of dark secrets and deadly obsessions…

Twin sisters Keziah and Tilly Lovell are identical in every way, except that Tilly hasn't grown a single inch since she was five. Coerced into promoting their father's quack elixir as they tour the country fairgrounds, at the age of fifteen the girls are sold to a mysterious Italian known as ‘Captain’ .

Theo is an orphan, raised by his grandfather, Lord Seabrook, a man who has a dark interest in anatomical freaks and other curiosities … particularly the human kind. Resenting his grandson for his mother’ s death in childbirth, when Seabrook remarries and a new heir is produced, Theo is forced to leave home without a penny to his name.

Theo finds employment in Dr Summerwell’ s Museum of Anatomy in London, and here he meets Captain and his theatrical ‘family’ of performers, freaks and outcasts.

But it is Theo’ s fascination with Tilly and Keziah that will lead all of them into a web of deceits, exposing the darkest secrets and threatening everything they know…

Exploring universal themes of love and loss, the power of redemption and what it means to be unique,The Fascination is an evocative, glittering and bewitching gothic novel that brings alive Victorian London – and darkness and deception that lies beneath…

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The Measure of Human Curiosity and Cruelty

Essie Fox's THE FASCINATION is a poignant exploration of the human condition set against the backdrop of Victorian London. The novel delves into the lives of individuals who are marginalized and ostracized due to their physical differences, weaving a narrative that is as much about the resilience of the human spirit as it is about the societal norms of the time.

The Victorian era, known for its strict social hierarchy and fascination with the macabre, serves as the perfect setting for this tale. It was a time when freakshows were common entertainment, and those with disabilities were often subjected to the harsh glare of the public eye. Fox challenges this narrative by giving her characters depth and agency, allowing them to be more than mere spectacles. The novel is a commentary on the timeless struggle for acceptance and the search for identity. It questions the very notion of what it means to be normal and the lengths to which society will go to maintain the status quo. Through Theo and Keziah's journey, Fox invites readers to reflect on their perceptions of difference and the inherent value of every individual.

The story is told through the eyes of Theo, an orphan with dreams of medicine, and Keziah, a girl whose life is marked by her twin sister's stunted growth and their father's exploitation. Fox masterfully intertwines their paths, creating a tapestry of experiences that highlight the stark contrast between the curiosity and cruelty of human nature.

Set in a theatrical family milieu, the novel weaves a complex tapestry of emotions. It delves into the depths of darkness and light, exploring themes of love, redemption, and the enduring spirit of a found family. The characters are the heart and soul of this narrative. Theo, Keziah, and Tilly Lovell find themselves intertwined with a cast that brings warmth and humanity to their journey. Aleksi, the valiant and thoughtful, and Martha, the embodiment of kindness and maternal care, are just a few of the characters who become as dear to readers as they are to the Lovell sisters. As the plot unfolds, readers are drawn into the Lovell sisters' quest for happiness, a concept that is as varied as the characters themselves. The novel's pace quickens towards a tense and surprising conclusion, one that feels both inevitable and shocking. The emotional undercurrents are so tangible that they demand the reader's empathy, making it impossible not to be moved by the characters' trials and triumphs.

THE FASCINATION is witness to Fox's ability to craft a narrative that is as compelling as it is emotionally resonant. It is a reminder that in a world quick to judge and categorize, there is a profound beauty in the unique stories of those who defy convention. The novel is a must-read for anyone interested in the complexities of human nature and the transformative power of compassion.

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About the Author:

Essie Fox was born and raised in rural Herefordshire, which inspires much of her writing.

After studying English Literature at Sheffield University, she moved to London where she worked for the Telegraph Sunday Magazine, then the book publishers George Allen & Unwin – before becoming self-employed in the world of art and design.

Always an avid reader, Essie now spends her time writing historical gothic novels. Her debut, The Somnambulist, was shortlisted for the National Book Awards, and featured on Channel 4’s TV Book Club. The Last Days of Leda Grey, set in the early years of silent film, was selected as The Times Historical Book of the Month. Her latest novel, The Fascination is based in Victorian country fairgrounds, the glamour of the London theatres, and an Oxford Street Museum full of morbid curiosities.

Essie is also the creator of the popular blog: The Virtual Victorian She has lectured on this era at the V&A, and the National Gallery in London. 
Photo was copied from the author's blog, no copyright infringement intended.

*Thanks to IPG / Orenda Books for the egalley in exchange for this unbiased review.

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Blog Tour | OUR DARKEST HOUR by Gabriella E. Mari

About the Book:

Our Darkest Hour
by Gabriella E. Mari
Publication: October 2022
Genre: Paranormal

‘Our Darkest Hour’ is a gay love story centred around paranormal investigations. It features ghosts, demons, and one psychic who is slowly but surely coming to terms with his powers... and the feelings he develops for one of his colleagues.

Coming into his psychic powers by accident, Adrian Sinclair finds he has the ability to see and communicate with spirits yet zero understanding of how anything works. So when the YouTube-famous Crossroads Paranormal Research Society offers to take him under their wing, he knows he is in no position to refuse.

As Adrian learns what it means to be a paranormal investigator and how to navigate his newfound online celebrity status, he discovers that psychics are quitting en masse, and there are only vague rumours as to why...

... until something beyond his reach starts stalking him.

"I think the romance was sensitive and well done and really hit me in the feels."
-LisaReadsPages
"...presented with a good dose of wit and layered plot lines."
-Tea leaves and Book leaves
"All in all its a very well written an entertaining read if a little lengthy and slow burning in spots with some very steamy bits!"
- GoodReadsMob


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About the Author:

Born in Illinois, Gem originally wanted to become a storm chaser before settling on writing. Coming up with stories since the age of 10, she first cut her teeth on fanfiction, gaining quite a following for her unique takes and overall ability to create believable characters and scenarios.

She studied Creative Writing at university and earned both a Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree. She works on exclusively original content these days. As a bi author, her main genres are a mix of gay (male) romance, fantasy, and reality, presented with a good dose of wit and layered (and sometimes darker-than-expected) plot lines.

Website: https://www.gemandibooks.com/

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Blog Tour | JIDDY VARDY by Ruth Estevez

About the Book:

JIDDY VARDY
by Ruth Estevez
Publication: ZunTold Publishing
Genre: Historical Fiction for Young Adults

1779

On tumultuous waters a girl is born as pirates board the ship . . .

Jiddy Vardy is a survivor.

Rescued at birth, she grows up in Robin Hood’s Bay, a community which harbours a dangerous secret that could get you killed.

Always the outsider, with her dark skin and hair, at sixteen Jiddy is clever, brave and headstrong, soon risking her life and freedom to play her part in the Bay’s clandestine activities.

Then, just as romance blossoms and Jiddy finally feels like she belongs, figures from the past threaten to tear her world apart, and she has to decide where her loyalties truly lie.

A thrilling tale of one girl’s search for identity and love, set against a backdrop of wild seas, smuggling and violence.

"Captivating, highly descriptive, and unflinching,
this is a book you will not want to put down."
-Bonnie Reads and Writes
"The author has a good way with words and a nice writing style."
-Steph

*Start reading the series now, before the series finale 'Jiddy Vardy Full Sail' comes out on December 2nd!

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About the Author:

Ruth Estevez was born in Yorkshire. Often the much-loved landscape is a third character in her novels. A career in theatre, TV and a subscription library have influenced her work. Script writing for Bob the Builder morphed into novel writing. Very much a Northern writer with Latin touches. Interested in social differences, the outsider and finding our place in the world.

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Blog Tour | Arvia: Wings of the Wild (Tales of Arvia #4) by D. H. Willison

About the Book:

Arvia: Wings of the Wild (Tales of Arvia #4)
by D. H. Willison
Publication: 22nd November 2023
Genre: Fantasy

It’s easy to stand up for your friends. What about anonymous creatures nobody else cares about?

With their homes apparently safe from the magical storms, Darin and Rinloh venture to an isolated elven village and another ancient mystery: ruins of an imperial city whose entire population vanished centuries ago.

The duo befriend a host of eccentric new characters, from a chipper ogress and hipster troll to a deadpan griffin. Yet the Forest of Nightmares challenges them as never before. Merciless carnivorous trees, subterranean horrors, ethereal creatures no mortal weapon can slay… and most sinister of all, the greed and ambition lurking within the human heart.

Darin and Rinloh’s empathic connection grows stronger the deeper into the wilderness they go, but will it be enough to stop a dark conspiracy from ravaging the land?

Arvia: Wings of the Wild challenges the harpy-human duo with their grandest adventure yet. They must balance their deepening relationship as they sharpen their skills and work together as never before to unravel a deadly new plot.

"Willison populates Arvia with quirky creatures
that do not follow the standard monster tropes."
-scintilla.info
"The humour also kept me laughing and entertained."
-Just Book Talk


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About the Author:

   

D.H. Willison is a reader, writer, game enthusiast and developer, engineer, and history buff. He’s lived or worked in over a dozen countries, learning different cultures, viewpoints, and attitudes, which have influenced his writing, contributing to one of his major themes: alternate and creative conflict resolution. The same situations can be viewed by different cultures quite differently. Sometimes it leads to conflict, sometimes to hilarity. Both make for a great story.

He’s also never missed a chance to visit historic sites, from castle dungeons, to catacombs, to the holds of tall ships, to the tunnels of the Maginot Line. It might be considered research, except for the minor fact that his tales are all set on the whimsical and terrifying world of Arvia. Where giant mythic monsters are often more easily overcome with empathy than explosions.

Subscribe to his newsletter for art, stories, and humorous articles (some of which are actually intended to be humorous).

You may get his new book here.

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Blog Tour | WILD COURT by Matthew Samuels

About the Book:

Wild Court
by Matthew Samuels
Publication: March 12th 2023
Genre: Fantasy

A secret organisation is losing the battle to maintain the empathy levels that sustain our planet’s barriers against the nightmare worlds."

Meanwhile, a young aristocrat safeguards a terrible secret, sponsoring an archaeology graduate obsessed with biblical artefacts. An all-knowing orphan worshiped by a cult joins a textbook exemplar of toxic masculinity and an introverted librarian. Together with a retired demon hunter, they’ll face the apocalypse.

"It's really fast-paced, well written, and full of tension. Highly recommended."
-Steph
"It's a really unique concept that I have not only not seen anywhere before..."
-The Book Dude


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About the Author:

I’m Matthew Samuels, a science fiction and fantasy writer based in London, UK. I’m the author of the Sci-Fi Hopepunk adventure books Parasites and Dusk, the first two books in the Navigator Series, which you can buy on Amazon or read more about on Goodreads (Parasites, Dusk), and urban fantasy titles, Small Places, which you can buy and read about here, and Wild Court, which you can read and buy here.

*Content sent by @TheWriteReads for this blog's publication. This is a free ad.

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Book Review | NORTH WOODS by Daniel Mason

NORTH WOODS
BY DANIEL MASON | PUBLICATION: SEPTEMBER 19, 2023
PENGUIN RANDOM HOUSE | GENRE: HISTORICAL FICTION
RATING: ★★★★

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A sweeping novel about a single house in the woods of New England, told through the lives of those who inhabit it across the centuries—a daring, moving tale of memory and fate from the Pulitzer Prize finalist and author of The Piano Tuner and The Winter Soldier.

When a pair of young lovers abscond from a Puritan colony, little do they know that their humble cabin in the woods will become home to an extraordinary succession of inhabitants . An English soldier, destined for glory, abandons the battlefields of the New World to devote himself to apples. A pair of spinster twins survive war and famine, only to succumb to envy and desire. A crime reporter unearths a mass grave, but finds the ancient trees refuse to give up their secrets. A lovelorn painter, a conman, a stalking panther, a lusty as each one confronts the mysteries of the north woods, they come to realize that the dark, raucous, beautiful past is very much alive.

Traversing cycles of history, nature, and even literature, North Woods shows the myriad, magical ways in which we’re connected to our environment and to one another, across time, language and space. Written along with the seasons and divided into the twelve months of the year, it is an unforgettable novel about secrets and fates that asks the timeless how do we live on, even after we’re gone? - PRH

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NORTH WOODS is not your typical historical fiction, but rather a brilliant collection of interrelated stories that take place in the same patch of land in Massachusetts, from centuries ago to the present day. Each story introduces a new set of characters, each with their own voice and perspective, and each facing their own challenges and dilemmas. Some stories are told in prose, some in verse, some in dialogue, some in reportage. Some stories are realistic, some are fantastical, some are mysterious, some are tragic. But they all share a common thread: the presence and influence of the North Woods, a place that seems to have a life and a will of its own.

Mason is a master storyteller who can switch from one style and tone to another with ease and skill. He creates memorable characters that you can empathize with, even if you only spend a few pages with them. He also weaves subtle connections and clues between the stories, making you want to go back and reread them to find the hidden links. He explores themes such as love, death, freedom, justice, faith, and nature, showing how they change and endure over time. And he does it all with beautiful language and imagery that transport you to the different eras and atmospheres of the North Woods.

NORTH WOODS is a novel that will make you think and feel deeply about the human condition and our relationship with the natural world. It's a novel that may surprise you, perhaps. It's a novel that deserves to be read.

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About the Author:

Daniel Mason was born and raised in Northern California. He studied biology at Harvard, and medicine at the University of California, San Francisco. His first novel, The Piano Tuner, published in 2002, was a national bestseller and has since been published in 27 countries. His other works include A Far Country, The Winter Soldier, and A Registry of My Passage Upon Earth, and his writing has appeared in Harper's Magazine and Lapham's Quarterly. He lives in the San Francisco Bay Area.

*Thanks to Penguin Random House and Netgalley for the digital ARC in exchange for this unbiased review.

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Book Review | THE BREAKAWAY by Jennifer Weiner

The Breakaway
by Jennifer Weiner
Publication: August 29, 2023
Publisher: Atria Books
Genre: Romance
Rating: ★★★★

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From #1 New York Times bestselling author Jennifer Weiner comes a warmhearted and empowering new novel about love, family, friendship, secrets, and a life-changing journey.

Thirty-three-year-old Abby Stern has made it to a happy place. True, she still has gig jobs instead of a career, and the apartment where she’s lived since college still looks like she’s just moved in. But she’s got good friends, her bike, and her bicycling club in Philadelphia. She’s at peace with her plus-size body—at least, most of the time—and she’s on track to marry Mark Medoff, her childhood sweetheart, a man she met at the weight-loss camp that her perpetually dieting mother forced her to attend. Fifteen years after her final summer at Camp Golden Hills, when Abby reconnects with a half-his-size Mark, it feels like the happy ending she’s always wanted.

Yet Abby can’t escape the feeling that something isn’t right...or the memories of one thrilling night she spent with a man named Sebastian two years previously. When Abby gets a last-minute invitation to lead a cycling trip from NYC to Niagara Falls, she’s happy to have time away from Mark, a chance to reflect and make up her mind.

But things get complicated fast. First, Abby spots a familiar face in the group—Sebastian, the one-night stand she thought she’d never see again. Sebastian is a serial dater who lives a hundred miles away. In spite of their undeniable chemistry, Abby is determined to keep her distance. Then there’s a surprise last-minute addition to the trip: her mother, Eileen, the woman Abby blames for a lifetime of body shaming and insecurities she’s still trying to undo.

Over two weeks and more than seven hundred miles, strangers become friends, hidden truths come to light, a teenage girl with a secret unites the riders in unexpected ways...and Abby is forced to reconsider everything she believes about herself, her mother, and the nature of love.

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I read my first book by Jennifer Weiner, The Breakaway, and I have to say I am not disappointed.

Weiner has a knack for writing engaging and realistic characters. The Breakaway is about a woman who leads a group bike trip from New York City to Niagara Falls, and has to deal with some unexpected guests along the way: her mother, who has always criticized her weight, and her former one-night stand, who might be more than just a fling.

Abby Stern credits cycling for helping her overcome her childhood trauma of being sent to weight-loss camp every summer by her mother, who never accepted her as she was. Now, as an adult, Abby is in a stable relationship with Mark, a fellow former camper who has lost half his weight and supports Abby unconditionally. He seemed set on spending forever with Abby, but she feels something is missing in their relationship. Maybe it's the fact that he won't touch sugar or learn to ride a bike with her. Maybe it's the fact that she still struggles with her self-esteem and body image.

When Abby gets the opportunity to lead a 12-day bike tour through New York, she jumps at it. It's a chance to do what she loves most, and to clear her head away from Mark. But she doesn't expect two surprise riders to join her: Sebastian, a charming and handsome man she had a one-night stand with before meeting Mark, and Eileen, her mother, who claims she wants to reconnect with Abby after years of estrangement. As Abby and Sebastian get closer on the road, Abby starts to question her feelings for Mark and wonder if Sebastian is the one for her. But can she trust him, especially after learning that he became famous on TikTok for sleeping around Brooklyn? And can she forgive her mother, who still triggers Abby's insecurities?

This is a delightful and heartwarming novel that explores themes of body acceptance, self-love, family, friendship, and romance. Abby is a relatable and likable protagonist, who grows as a person throughout the story. Weiner does a great job of portraying the complexities of Abby's relationship with her mother, as well as the chemistry between Abby and Sebastian. The secondary characters are also well-developed and add humor and depth to the story. Weiner also switches perspectives occasionally to give us a glimpse into their thoughts and feelings.

THE BREAKAWAY is a perfect book for anyone who enjoys a good romantic comedy with a dose of realism and social commentary.

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About The Author:

Jennifer Weiner is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of twenty-one books, including The Summer Place, That Summer, Big Summer, Mrs. Everything, In Her Shoes, Good in Bed, and a memoir in essays, Hungry Heart. She has appeared on many national television programs, including Today and Good Morning America, and her work has been published in The Wall Street Journal and The New York Times, among other newspapers and magazines. Jennifer lives with her family in Philadelphia. Visit her online at JenniferWeiner.com. Photo by Andrea Cipriani Mecchi

*Thanks to Simon & Schuster and Netgalley for the digital ARC in exchange for this unbiased review.

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Book Review | TIME OUT by Sean Hayes, Todd Milliner, Carlyn Greenwald

TIME OUT
by Sean Hayes, Todd Milliner, Carlyn Greenwald
Publication: May 30, 2023
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Genre: Teen Fiction / Coming-of-Age
Rating: ★★★★

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Heartstopper meets Friday Night Lights in this “seamless, engrossing” (Publishers Weekly) coming-of-age story about a teen hometown hero who must find out who he is outside of basketball when his coming out as gay costs him his popularity and place on the team.

In his small Georgia town, Barclay Elliot is basically a legend. Here basketball is all that matters, and no one has a bigger spotlight than Barclay. Until he decides to use the biggest pep rally in the town’s history to come out to his school. And things change. Quickly.

Barclay is faced with hostility he never expected. Suddenly he is at odds with his own team, and he doesn’t even have his grandfather to turn to the way he used to. But who is Barclay if he doesn’t have basketball?

His best friend, Amy, thinks she knows. She drags him to her voting rights group, believing Barclay can find a bigger purpose. And he does, but he also finds Christopher. Aggravating, fearless, undeniably handsome Christopher. He and Barclay have never been each other’s biggest fans, but as Barclay starts to explore parts of himself he’s been hiding away, they find they might have much more in common than they originally thought.

As sparks turn into something more, though, Barclay has to decide if he’s ready to confront the privilege and popularity that have shielded him his entire life. Can he take a real shot at the love he was fighting for in the first place? -Simon & Schuster

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I was pleasantly surprised by Time Out, a YA novel about a gay basketball star who faces homophobia and corruption in his small town. I was even more delighted when I learned that one of the authors is Sean Hayes, the actor who played Jack in Will & Grace. He and his co-authors did a great job of creating a realistic and engaging story that tackles some serious issues.

Time Out grabs your attention from the first page, when Barclay comes out as gay in front of his whole school. This sets the stage for a story full of drama, romance, and activism. I loved how Barclay's character grew throughout the book, as he faced the challenges of being out in a homophobic town. He made some mistakes, he struggles with his own ego and insecurities, which lead him to make some bad decisions that hurt the people who care about him. Along the way, he learned to be more confident and supportive of his friends and family. He had a great arc that made me root for him.

The book also did a great job of creating a realistic small-town vibe, with Barclay knowing everyone and everything that was going on. The plot was fast-paced and engaging, with short chapters that made me want to keep reading. The romance between Barclay and Christopher was slow but sweet, and I enjoyed seeing them get closer over time. They had a lot of chemistry and cute moments. I also enjoyed the friendship between Barclay, Amy, and Christopher, who form a loyal and fun trio. The book had a strong political theme, as Barclay and his friends campaigned for their town's elections and encouraged people to vote. I liked how the book showed the importance of civic engagement and standing up for what you believe in.

TIME OUT is a book that balances humor, heart, and hope. It is a book that celebrates diversity, courage, and acceptance. It shows the importance of being true to yourself and standing up for what is right. It also shows that being gay does not define you or limit you in any way. It's a great read for anyone who likes books with diverse characters, social justice, and adorable love stories.

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About the Authors:

Sean Hayes
Sean Hayes is an Emmy Award–winning actor, best known for his role as Jack McFarland on the NBC sitcom Will & Grace. He is also a writer, comedian, and producer. In addition to his credits in television and film, he has also found success on Broadway. He lives with his husband, Scott Icenogle, in Los Angeles. Sean is the author of picture book Plum and young adult novel Time Out. 

Todd Milliner
Todd Milliner is an Emmy Award–winning producer and writer who cofounded Hazy Mills Productions with Sean Hayes in 2004. He has produced over 400 episodes of television, including hit NBC drama Grimm and the TV Land sitcom Hot in Cleveland. He lives with his husband, Michael Matthews, in Los Angeles. 

Carlyn Greenwald
Carlyn Greenwald writes romantic and thrilling page-turners for teens and adults. A film school graduate and former Hollywood lackey, she now works in publishing. She resides in Los Angeles, mourning the loss of ArcLight Cinemas and soaking in the sun with her dogs. Find her online on X (previously known as Twitter) @CarlynGreenwald and Instagram @Carlyn_Gee.

*Thanks to Simon & Schuster and Netgalley for the digital ARC in exchange for this unbiased review.

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Blog Tour | FEAST OF ASHES by Victoria Williamson

 

About the Book

Feast of Ashes
by Victoria Williamson
Publication: 5th October 2023
Publisher: Neem Tree Press
Genre: YA, Dystopian Fantasy

The Earth's ecosystems have collapsed and only ashes remain. Is one girl's courage enough to keep hope alive in the wastelands?

It's the year 2123, and sixteen-year-old Adina has just accidentally killed fourteen thousand seven hundred and fifty-six people. Raised in the eco-bubble of Eden Five, Adina has always believed that the Amonston Corporation's giant greenhouse would keep her safe forever. But when her own careless mistake leads to an explosion that incinerates Eden Five, she and a small group of survivors must brave the barren wastelands outside the ruined Dome to reach the Sanctuary before their biofilters give out and their DNA threatens to mutate in the toxic air.

They soon discover that the outside isn't as deserted as they were made to believe, and the truth is unearthed on their dangerous expedition. As time runs out, Adina must tackle her guilty conscience and find the courage to get everyone to safety. Will she make it alive, or will the Nomalies get to her first?

"I know this is going to be an incredible series for Young Adults, and look forward to what is to come..."
-BookBound
"I liked the powerful themes that Williamson brought into this novel, I loved the novel being set in Africa."
-A Cascade of Books
"I can imagine Feast of Ashes being a big screen movie in the same way as Hunger Games, Maze Runner and Divergent."
-Much To Do About Writing

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About the Author

Victoria Williamson is an award-winning author who grew up in Scotland surrounded by hills, books, and an historical farm estate which inspired many of her early adventure stories and spooky tales. After studying Physics at the University of Glasgow, she set out on her own real-life adventures, which included teaching maths and science in Cameroon, training teachers in Malawi, teaching English in China and working with children with additional support needs in the UK. Victoria currently works part time writing KS2 books for the education company Twinkl and spends the rest of her time writing novels, and visiting schools, libraries and literary festivals to give author talks and run creative writing workshops.

Victoria’s previous novels include The Fox Girl and the White Gazelle, The Boy with the Butterfly Mind, Hag Storm, and War of the Wind. She has won the Bolton Children’s Fiction Award 2020/2021, The YA-aldi Glasgow Secondary School Libraries Book Award 2023, and has been shortlisted for the Week Junior Book Awards 2023, The Leeds Book Awards 2023, the Red Book Award 2023, the James Reckitt Hull Book Awards 2021, The Trinity School Book Awards 2021, and longlisted for the ABA South Coast Book Awards 2023, the Waterstones Children’s Book Prize 2020, and the Branford Boase Award 2019.

Her latest novel, The Pawnshop of Stolen Dreams, is a middle grade fantasy inspired by classic folklore. Twenty percent of the author royalties for this book are donated to CharChar Literacy, an organisation working to improve children’s literacy levels in Malawi.

You can find out more about Victoria’s books, school visits and free resources for schools on her website: www.strangelymagical.com

*Content sent by @TheWriteReads for this blog's publication. This is a free ad.

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