The characters are the real strength here. They‘re diverse in age and background, each with their own struggles. I especially loved watching Grace‘s growth as she began to reconnect with life and realize she‘s capable of more than she ever imagined. The family relationships—Grace with her daughter and grandson, and the warmth between parents and children—are especially touching.

The storyline is engaging and genuinely emotional, and I felt much more connected to the characters this time around. The character development is noticeably deeper and more polished than in the earlier books, which made the whole story more satisfying to read.

What really shines here is the theme of friendship. It‘s at the heart of the story and gives the book a lot of warmth and heart without feeling overdone.

What I enjoy most about Grant‘s writing is how she creates strong women who find themselves through tough situations. This book has that same theme, along with a relationship you really root for. Sabela and Slater support each other deeply, even when life throws a major emotional curveball at them.

“Seabreeze Harvest” is exactly the kind of warm, cozy escape I love. Every time I open a Jan Moran book, it feels like I‘m dropping in on friends I‘ve known for years. The characters in Summer Beach—Ivy, Bennett, Poppy, Shelly, Mitch, and little Daisy—truly feel like family at this point. I love meeting the new faces who wander into town, too. Some stay, some pass through, but all of them add something special.

I absolutely loved Uruk: A Novel of the First City! Ancient Mesopotamia has always been my favorite time period to read about, and this book brought it to life in such a vivid way.

The pacing was spot on—just when I thought things might slow down, something dramatic would happen to pull me right back in. The characters are wonderfully drawn, a mix of misfits and dreamers who form a found family in a brutal world.

This was my first time reading Korean horror, and “Midnight Timetable” definitely delivered a unique vibe. The setting—a research institute full of cursed objects—is super creepy, and I liked how each short story explored a different haunting. The tale “You Can‘t Come in Here” was the standout for me. That tunnel scene? Totally gave me chills.

“Lightning in a Mason Jar” by Catherine Mann is one of those books that grabs you from page one and doesn‘t let go. It‘s heartfelt, emotional, and beautifully written—a story about friendship, resilience, and the unbreakable bonds between women.

I just finished “Long Lost Sister” by N.L. Hinkens, and wow—what a ride. Imagine finding out through one of those DNA tests that you suddenly have a sister you never knew about. Sounds like a dream, right? Well… not exactly.

This is a fun, bingeable psychological thriller. Not my absolute favorite from Hinkens, but still a solid read with great twists. If you like fast-paced suspense with complicated family ties, this one‘s worth picking up.

Tina Hogan Grant totally pulls you in. You can almost smell the salt air and feel the waves on Tammy‘s boat, but what really stays with you is the emotional journey. It‘s real, raw, and relatable—especially if you live far from family or have ever felt like time slipped away from you.

If you're into feel-good stories about second chances, finding love later in life, and small-town magic, this one‘s for you. Jan Moran nailed it again. Can‘t wait for the next one in the series!

The plot is funny and touching, with some really emotional moments mixed in. I loved the idea of using the eight nights of Hanukkah as a way for Evelyn to reflect on her past heartbreaks, especially since they all connect back to her ex-husband, David. Speaking of David—he‘s an absolute sweetheart! A kind, supportive doctor who clearly still cares about Evelyn, even after everything they‘ve been through.

The writing was smooth, and the premise had real potential. Belle does a great job capturing the allure and danger of Amsterdam‘s glittering underworld. The diamond lore, while excessive at times, added a unique angle—though it sometimes slowed the pacing. It‘s a fine read for a weekend getaway or rainy afternoon, just not the thriller knockout I was hoping for.

The book is intense—brutal at times—and doesn‘t pull punches when it comes to violence or moral gray zones. Roman is a complex character who‘s both likable and frustrating. He‘ll do anything to save his siblings, even if that means cutting deals with dangerous people. I appreciated the way Cosby explored loyalty and family while asking big questions: How far is too far when you're protecting the people you love?

A masterfully slow-burning thriller that builds layer by layer until it hits you with a twist you won‘t see coming. Hank Phillippi Ryan expertly captures the behind-the-scenes chaos of book tours while weaving a suspenseful tale of fame, secrets, and fear. While the pace is a bit slow at the start, the payoff is well worth it. A gripping psychological mystery that keeps you guessing—and gasping—until the final page.

While I appreciated the attempt to spotlight a critical historical period, I found this story less compelling than Kristina McMorris's earlier works. Still, readers who enjoy adventure-driven historical fiction might find it engaging.

“Heart of the Sun” by Mia Sheridan is an emotional, fast-paced journey through a world turned upside down. I‘m not usually drawn to romance, but the dystopian twist pulled me in—and I‘m glad it did.

If you're into character-driven stories with a blend of action, romance, and survival in a world on the edge, “Heart of the Sun” is a worthwhile read. A powerful exploration of love, trust, and finding strength in the darkest of times.

An intense, beautifully written debut that shines an unflinching light on the hidden lives of women in the Arabian Gulf.
It forces readers to confront uncomfortable truths about privilege, oppression, and survival in a region often romanticized for its wealth and modernity.
Highly recommended for readers looking for a powerful, eye-opening novel that gives voice to stories too often silenced.

As a lifelong book lover, this story spoke straight to my heart. Ivy‘s dream of creating a library in the heart of Summer Beach had me cheering from the first page, and when a whimsical bookmobile rolled into town—well, I was completely charmed! Five stars for friendship, family, and the magical healing power of books. Life is better in Summer Beach.

Anton‘s meticulous research and rich descriptions immerse readers in the realities of ancient life, from the dangers of the wilderness to the intricacies of midwifery and survival. The novel is filled with adventure, romance, and profound spiritual questioning, making it both an engaging read and a thought-provoking reflection on faith, identity, and community.

If you love psychological thrillers that make your heart race and keep you reading way past bedtime, this one‘s a must-read. Highly recommend!

This is not a book that offers easy answers or a neatly tied-up ending. It‘s quiet, contemplative, and at times, achingly sad. But it‘s also thought-provoking, peeling back layers of history and human connection in a way that few novels do. If you‘re looking for a romance with all the answers, this isn‘t it. But if you‘re willing to sit with uncertainty, to feel the weight of love and loss, The Shores of Our Souls is worth the read.

When you pick up a Susan Mallery book, you know you‘re in for family drama, romance, and just enough heartbreak to keep things interesting. Beach Vibes delivers all that—plus some serious sandwich-making skills.

Still, “The Guilt Pill” is a gripping, thought-provoking read that will stay with you long after you turn the last page. If you‘ve ever felt like you‘re drowning under expectations, this one will hit hard.

The story is fast-paced and shines a light on a part of history I had no idea about—how Nazis used a Parisian store as a prison and storage space for stolen goods. Both Louise and Helaine‘s stories are filled with love, loss, and determination, and the way their lives connect kept me reading.

Tracey Lange has crafted an absolute gem with “The Connellys of County Down.” This novel dives deep into the complexities of family, loyalty, and second chances in a way that feels both poignant and incredibly relatable. The Connellys are messy, flawed, and imperfect—just like most families—but their fierce love and loyalty for one another shine through on every page.

Parts of the story felt bogged down by philosophical musings, which slowed the pace. Some plot points didn‘t work for me, and while Rahel‘s inner strength shines, her misfortunes and heartbreaks can sometimes feel overwhelming.

If you‘re looking for a novel that‘s not just about history but also about people—full of heart, beauty, and resilience—“Half a Cup of Sand and Sky” is absolutely worth your time. It‘s the kind of book that stays with you long after you‘ve finished it.

Rothstein‘s sharp wit and keen observations about family life are on full display, making this a book that alternates between heartfelt and laugh-out-loud moments. From the drama of a blended family to the touching realization that it‘s never too late to find yourself, this book strikes an emotional chord while keeping things lighthearted.

Reading “A Very Coral Christmas” by Jan Moran is like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket with a mug of hot cocoa—if your blanket smelled like the ocean and your cocoa came with a side of sandy toes and sunshine! This delightful novella brings all the charm, romance, and heartwarming vibes you‘d expect from Summer Beach, with a festive twist that‘s guaranteed to put you in the holiday spirit.

While the psychological twists and darker tones were compelling, I found it hard to feel the raw grief and pain of these women. I wanted to care deeply about their healing, their friendships, and their journeys—but I just didn‘t.

This book is an absolute gem! It delightfully captures the magical, cozy bond between a little girl and her grandparents. Daisy‘s Saturday adventures with her Grammie and Pupa will bring back sweet memories for some of the parents reading this book. The story perfectly showcases the joys of simpler times—helping in the garden, baking, playing games, and just basking in the love that only grandparents can give.

Cantor‘s writing is lush and emotionally resonant. The themes of friendship, grief, and self-discovery are beautifully handled. This is easily one of Jillian Cantor‘s finest works!

An intriguing family saga filled with complex relationships and rich cultural descriptions, set against the backdrop of Kolkata. The novel does a beautiful job capturing the sights and sounds of Kolkata, immersing readers in the vibrancy of the city and the multifaceted Lahiri family. But can feel a bit drawn out

This book isn‘t just historical fiction; it‘s a life-affirming tale that lingers long after you turn the final page. For anyone who loves stories of courage, love, and the triumph of the human spirit, A Light Beyond the Trenches is a must-read. Five glowing stars!

Set in a family-owned hotel on the coast of Maine, it‘s filled with drama, secrets, and a hurricane to boot. The Bishop sisters—Vicki, Iris, and Faith—come together after their father‘s death, and things quickly spiral into a mess of old grudges and murder.

I have to say, the ending was a little over-the-top, but that didn‘t ruin the experience for me. If you‘re into family drama and some twisty thriller vibes, this one‘s worth picking up.

This book has love, redemption, & real emotional weight. The pacing was good, & I enjoyed how it captured the struggles of Russian Jews at that time. However, while some characters felt fleshed out & relatable, a few key ones came across as one-dimensional. Also, the abrupt ending surprised me —it‘s part of a series, but it still felt a bit jarring.

All in all, a solid read, worth checking out, even if it does repeat itself in places.

Joy Jordan-Lake has created a haunting, well-researched novel that beautifully portrays both the personal & historical impacts of war. The scenes on St. Simons Island GA are vividly brought to life. The dual timelines—following Hadley, a present-day event planner, and the wartime experiences of Joanie and the three men—are skillfully woven together, each timeline enhancing the emotional depth of the other.

Madeline Martin has done it again with “The Booklovers‘ Library” —a moving story that blends the magic of books with the struggles of wartime England. This book had me hooked from the very beginning, following the journey of Emma, a widow in Nottingham, as she navigates the difficulties of finding work, sending her daughter to safety, and discovering the power of community in the darkest of times. LOVED IT!

An emotional and historically rich story set against the backdrop of the Berlin Wall's construction in 1961. The premise is gripping: young lovers, Lise Bauer and Uli Neumann, find themselves cruelly separated by the sudden division of their city, forcing them to navigate life on opposite sides of the Iron Curtain.

However, while the plot had plenty of action and conflict, I found the characters lacking in depth.

Offers a unique glimpse into the lesser-known history of WWII Shanghai, where Chinese inhabitants, Jewish refugees, and Japanese occupiers lived in uneasy proximity. Through the eyes of Aiyi, a Chinese heiress, and Ernest, a Jewish pianist, Randel crafts a poignant tale of love and survival under harrowing circumstances.

Despite the slow pace, Grimalkin's perspective and his love for humans make for an entertaining read. His adventures, especially helping Hannah, a university student dealing with difficult flatmates, add a touching element to the story.

“Magical Meet Cute“ by Jean Meltzer offers a whimsical journey into the life of Faye Kaplan, a Jewitch potter navigating love, identity, and the consequences of her magical creations. While Meltzer's witty prose and exploration of serious themes add depth to the narrative, the fusion of romance, fantasy, and weighty topics did not resonate with me.

While “Hum“ offers a compelling premise and thought-provoking commentary, it struggles with character development and cohesive storytelling. The world-building is impressive, and the themes of privacy, technology, and family resonate strongly. However, the book ultimately falls short of delivering a fully impactful narrative.

“Only One Survives“ combines suspense, drama, and psychological twists in a way that feels fresh and thrilling. McKinnon's knack for creating believable characters and maintaining a sense of unease throughout makes this book a standout. If you‘re into psychological thrillers or stories about the dark side of fame, you‘ll find this one satisfying.

Giveaway Facebook group Reading is My Passion. For details go to: http://facebook.com/groups/ReadingisMyPassion

The giveaway is a Once Upon a Book Club box containing THE WOMEN by Kristin Hannah and four gifts to open at designated pages. US ADDRESSES ONLY. And PLEASE share. Open July 20-30.

I just finished reading “Coral Memories” by Jan Moran, and it was such a heartwarming story! This final chapter shines a light on the amazing Ginger Delavie, a brilliant mathematician and codebreaker whose adventures took her all over the world. Now, in her later years, Ginger decides it‘s time for her grandson-in-law, Jack, to write her story.

It warmed my heart as I recognized that Ron did indeed follow Michael‘s wishes for him. Ron has immersed himself fully in the culture of Paris. Even more satisfying was to read that as Michael had taken Ron into his care, so has Ron mentored Louie, a young man struggling with self-identity. Their relationship blossomed into something genuine and supportive.

A riveting mix of history & intrigue. Protagonist Alienor's quest is deeply personal as she uncovers her family‘s past, filled with heartbreak & resilience. Her Jewish/Arabic lineage weaves a rich tapestry of history, culture, & tragedy that informs her investigation into Spain's “stolen babies“—a dark chapter where infants were taken from mothers deemed unfit by Franco‘s regime.

“All the Broken Places“ grabs you from the start and doesn‘t let go. It‘s a story about facing your darkest parts and finding the bravery to make different choices, no matter how hard. Boyne‘s writing is engaging and emotional, making it a book you won‘t want to put down.

“The Paris Widow“ is a must-read for anyone who loves a good thriller with a mix of glamour, danger, and mystery. Prepare to be glued to the pages as you follow Stella‘s quest through the captivating and treacherous streets of Paris. Kimberly Belle has delivered another five-star thriller that‘s perfect for your summer reading list.