My 2024 books!

MY 2024 BOOKS

it was amazing

it was amazing

it was amazing

it was amazing

Family by Drew Holcomb MUSIC VIDEO

I LOVE this song! I think it's perfect for Thanksgiving. Family is anyone who loves you for you!

 

Drops of Gold by Sarah M. Eden REVIEW

""But which way is Farland Meadows?" Marion shouted into the biting wind. She hadn't anticipated being left on an empty public road." 

I love  Ms. Eden's books! Especially the ones in the Jonquil and Lancaster family! I've read them all in order and then reread my favorites and then started over again. 

The Twelve Days of Dash & Lily by Rachel Cohn and David Levithan REVIEW

 

"Dash

A Partridge in a Pear Tree"

Set in the magical atmosphere of Christmas in New York City, the story follows Dash and Lily one year after their whirlwind holiday romance (which was a super cute movie!).

This time, things aren’t quite as joyful. Lily's beloved grandfather has fallen ill, and she's struggling with the holiday spirit, while Dash is determined to bring the Christmas magic back into her life. What follows is a sweet, funny, and at times bittersweet journey as Dash, Lily, and their friends work together to rediscover love and joy during the twelve days leading up to Christmas.

The book balances romance and real-life challenges well, showing how relationships evolve over time. The chemistry between Dash’s snarky wit and Lily’s quirky optimism remains charming, even as they face more serious issues this time around.

Perfect for fans of light-hearted holiday romances. If you're looking for something cozy and fun to get you into the Christmas spirit, this book is a great choice!

Jesus Christ in the Book of Mormon by Susan Easton Black REVIEW

 

"When President Nelson invited the sisters of the church to read the Book of Mormon at the general woman's session October 2018 general conference, he instructed: "As you read, I would encourage you to mark each verse that speaks of or refers to the Savior." 

Susan Easton Black has always impressed me with her writing and research. I LOVED this book and how she taught me about the Savior of the Book of Mormon. I've read it at least three times now. 

5 Stars

The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes by Suzanne Collins REVIEW

 

"Coriolanus released the fistful of cabbage into the pot of boiling water and swore that one day it would never pass his lips again." 

I did not love this book. It hurt my heart and soul. 

I went into The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes with high expectations, having enjoyed The Hunger Games trilogy, but unfortunately, this prequel fell short for me. The novel follows a young Coriolanus Snow as he navigates the early days of the Hunger Games as a mentor. 

The pacing felt slow and uneven. The first half dragged. Snow’s character arc didn’t deliver the depth I hoped for. His transition from a flawed youth to a villain felt gradual but lacked the emotional punch to really hook me.

Overall, I gave the book 3 stars because, while the writing was solid and the concept promising, it didn’t live up to the excitement or emotional weight of its predecessors. 

The Blood Sugar Solution: 10-Day Detox Deit by Mark Hyman REVIEW

 After a blood test to figure out some health problems, my doctor told me I was pre-diabetic. Freaked. Me. Out. I read everything I could to drop my numbers, cut back DRASTICALLY on sugar, took mushroom pills and tried to eat better. When I went back for a finger prick to see if my numbers were up, there was no issue. 

I read this book for help. I wasn't invested enough to go 100% on this diet, but it helped me understand a little bit more about blood sugar. I also don't think it worked for me. 

3 1/2 Stars

Hocus Pocus - I Put A Spell On You HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

 

The Porcelain Moon by Janie Chang REVIEW

 "But I don't want to get married, she thought." 

So starts the story of two women at the end of WWI, a beautifully written historical novel that weaves together themes of love, war, and identity in a time of great upheaval. Set in France during the final days of World War I, the story focuses on two women, Pauline Deng and Camille Roussel, whose lives intersect under the shadow of war.

Pauline, a Chinese woman fleeing an arranged marriage, seeks refuge in France with her cousin, only to find herself caught between conflicting loyalties. 

Camille, a young French woman, harbors secrets of her own, 

Together, their stories reveal the complexities of gender, race, and survival during a turbulent time in history.

Chang’s writing is lush and evocative, painting a vivid picture of the characters' inner and outer worlds. Her attention to historical detail brings this lesser-known aspect of World War I to life, shedding light on the contributions and struggles of Chinese laborers in Europe. 

Highly recommended read for historical fiction fans looking for something fresh and deeply moving.

Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert REVIEW

 

"Once upon a time, there was a name named Jack Gilbert, who was not related to me--unfortunately for me."

Book Review: Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert

This book was an inspiration the first time I read it years ago when I was writing. It's a thought-provoking education of creativity and the courage to pursue it and encouraging readers to embrace curiosity over fear.

Ms. Gilbert doesn’t present creativity as some lofty, unreachable concept for the “chosen few,” but rather as something everyone can engage with, whether you're a writer, painter, or simply someone curious about living more creatively. Her belief that ideas are almost living entities, waiting for us to act on them, is a fresh perspective that challenges traditional thinking. And which I can totally subscribe to as I've experienced it in my own life with writing. 

If you're looking for a motivating, uplifting read that might just nudge you to chase your creative impulses, this book is a must.

Sacagawea: The Bird Woman by Tara Mayoros REVIEW

 

"From the Atlantic coast, over the many waterways, across the Great Plains, towering over the ridges of the Rocky Mountains, and all the way to the Pacific Ocean, one creature is found consistently in ancient symbols and stories." 

I guess you'll have to read this book to find out which creature! 

I wish we had more info on Sacagawea. She's an amazing and interesting American star! I loved Tara's storytelling and Todd Powelson's art. I learned a lot in a short amount of time. 

The Choice by Nicholas Sparks REVIEW

#1 New York Times bestseller Nicholas Sparks turns his unrivaled talents to a new tale about love found and lost, and the choices we hope we'll never have to make.

Travis Parker has everything a man could want: a good job, loyal friends, even a waterfront home in small-town North Carolina. In full pursuit of the good life - boating, swimming , and regular barbecues with his good-natured buddies -- he holds the vague conviction that a serious relationship with a woman would only cramp his style. That is, until Gabby Holland moves in next door. Spanning the eventful years of young love, marriage and family, THE CHOICE ultimately confronts us with the most heartwrenching question of all: how far would you go to keep the hope of love alive?

Complete transparency: DNF

Alright, so I finally caved and read The Choice by Nicholas Sparks. As a reluctant reader of Sparks' overly sentimental romances, I went in with low expectations. And guess what? It didn't disappoint in being a letdown.

Let's start with the plot. Travis Parker, the quintessential perfect guy with a perfect life, meets Gabby Holland, the new girl next door with an attitude. They fall in love, yada yada, tragedy strikes, more sappy love declarations ensue. It’s all painfully predictable. Sparks seems to think that throwing a bunch of clichés together makes a compelling story. Spoiler: it doesn't.

You know another cliche? The book is better than the movie? I'm not so sure on this one. Maybe it's because I liked the actors?

I loved the movie adaptation of The Choice by Nicholas Sparks. It had the right amount of drama, romance, and charm. So, naturally, I thought, "Why not give the book a shot?" Well, let's just say the book didn't quite live up to my expectations. 

First off, the writing style. Nicholas Sparks' prose can be as subtle as a neon sign in Times Square. Every emotion is spelled out, leaving little to the imagination. Where the movie used visual storytelling to convey deep emotions, the book felt like it was hammering those feelings into your brain. Subtlety? Never heard of it.

The characters also didn’t fare much better. Travis Parker is your textbook romantic lead—charming, handsome, and conveniently flawless. Gabby, while a bit more developed, often came off as cliché. Their interactions, which felt natural and engaging on screen, sometimes seemed forced and cringey in the book.

The movie managed to capture the heart of the story with its pacing, visuals, and chemistry between the actors. The book, however, struggled with pacing and relied heavily on cheesy dialogue and predictable plot twists. Sparks’ attempt to tug at the heartstrings sometimes felt more like a yank.

In conclusion, if you loved the movie version of The Choice, you might find the book to be a bit of a letdown. It’s one of those rare instances where the film adaptation outshines the original material. For a Nicholas Sparks fix, stick with the movie—it's got all the feels without the unnecessary fluff.

Half Moon Summer by Elaine Vickers REVIEW

Two seventh graders discover it takes more than grit and a good pair of shoes to run 13.1 miles. You’ve got to have a partner who refuses to let you quit.

Drew was never much of a runner. Until his dad’s unexpected diagnosis. Mia has nothing better to do. Until she realizes entering Half Moon Bay’s half-marathon could solve her family’s housing problems.

And just like that they decide to spend their entire summer training to run 13.1 miles. Drew and Mia have very different reasons for running, but these two twelve year olds have one crucial thing in common (besides sharing a birthday): Hope. For the future. For their families. And for each other.

Half Moon Summer by Elaine Vickers is a heartfelt coming-of-age story that beautifully captures the essence of growing up. Set against the backdrop of a small coastal town, the book follows the intertwining lives of two twelve-year-olds, Drew and Mia, during one transformative summer.

Drew and Mia, both dealing with personal challenges, find solace and friendship in each other. 

Vickers' writing is tender and evocative, painting a vivid picture of the setting and the emotional journeys of the characters. Half Moon Summer is book is a must-read for anyone who loves stories about friendship, bravery, and finding oneself.

Courting Miss Lancaster by Sarah M. Eden

Harry Windower adores blonde, green-eyes Athena Lancaster, but alas, a penniless man like himself has no hope of winning a young noblewoman's hand. To add insult to injury, Athena's brother-in-law and guardian, the Duke of Kielder, has asked Harry to assist Athena in finding a gentleman of her dreams. But the lovesick Harry is cunning as well: as the weeks pass, he introduces Athena to suitors who are horrifically boring, alar
mingly attached to their mothers, downright rude, astoundingly self-absorbed, and utterly ridiculous.

Athena can't comprehend why she is having so little success meeting eligible and acceptable gentlemen. Indeed, her circle of admirers couldn't be be less admirable - nothing like the loyal, gentle friend she's found in Harry. But how long can Harry's scheme be hidden before it is discovered? And what will Athena do when she uncovers Harry's deception?

Escape into a charming regency world in this delightfully romantic comedy of manners that will entertain you to the very last word.

Sarah Eden has a great way with humor and romance. And she does both so well in a Regency Romance setting.

Miss Athena Lancaster has come to her sisters house to find a husband. Her protector and sisters husband, Duke Kielder, is wary of gold diggers seeking her hand so he asks Harry Windover to help whittle down the competition.

The only problem is Harry likes Athena but knows he can't marry her because he is poor. So he wants to make sure she marries the perfect man if it can't be him.

What ensues is comedic encounters, unworthy suitors and eventually, love.

Athena, after being introduced to many unsavory matches, finds her heart belongs to another. but will the Duke approve?

Sarah has written another great, clean, fun and funny romantic story.

Keep 'em coming!

Five years. That's how long Coyote and her dad, Rodeo, have lived on the road in an old school bus, crisscrossing the nation. It's also how long ago Coyote lost her mom and two sisters in a car crash.

Coyote hasn’t been home in all that time, but when she learns the park in her old neighborhood is being demolished - the very same park where she, her mom, and her sisters buried a treasured memory box - she devises an elaborate plan to get her dad to drive 3,600 miles back to Washington state in four days...without him realizing it.

Along the way, they'll pick up a strange crew of misfit travelers. Lester has a lady love to meet. Salvador and his mom are looking to start over. Val needs a safe place to be herself. And then there's Gladys....

Over the course of thousands of miles, Coyote will learn that going home can sometimes be the hardest journey of all...but that with friends by her side, she just might be able to turn her “once upon a time” into a “happily ever after”.

COVER LOVE!!! Lovelovelove the cover

Book Review: The Remarkable Journey of Coyote Sunrise by Dan Gemeinhart

The Remarkable Journey of Coyote Sunrise by Dan Gemeinhart is a heartfelt and adventurous tale perfect for middle-grade readers. The story follows twelve-year-old Coyote and her father, Rodeo (don't you love their names??), as they travel across the country in a school bus turned home. Their journey is filled with colorful characters, unexpected twists, and heartwarming moments.

Coyote's mission is to retrieve a memory box she buried with her late mother and sisters, but getting her father to return to their hometown is no easy feat. The book beautifully explores themes of loss, healing, and the importance of family and friendship.

Grief is a hard and troublesome passenger. Adults tend to hold their grief close and not discuss it with their children, whether it's because the words and feelings are too hard and they don't know what to say or how the child will react. But children need to talk about their pain as well and parents need to listen. 

Gemeinhart's writing is engaging and full of emotion, making it easy for readers to connect with Coyote and her quest. This book is a delightful and touching read that teaches the value of holding onto precious memories while moving forward with hope and courage. Highly recommended for young readers!

The Emperor's Soul by Brandon Sanderson REVIEW

 The Emperor's Soul by Brandon Sanderson

A heretic thief is the empire’s only hope in this fascinating tale that inhabits the same world as the popular novel, Elantris.

Shai is a Forger, a foreigner who can flawlessly copy and re-create any item by rewriting its history with skillful magic. Condemned to death after trying to steal the emperor’s scepter, she is given one opportunity to save herself. Though her skill as a Forger is considered an abomination by her captors, Shai will attempt to create a new soul for the emperor, who is almost dead.

Probing deeply into his life, she discovers Emperor Ashravan’s truest nature—and the opportunity to exploit it. Her only possible ally is one who is truly loyal to the emperor, but councilor Gaotona must overcome his prejudices to understand that Shai’s forgery is as much artistry as it is deception.

Brimming with magic and political intrigue, this deftly woven fantasy delves into the essence of a living spirit.

Brandon definitely doesn't need my mediocre review on any of his books, much less a super short one. LOL. I love his writing and his style, his characters and their insights. Brandon is a master weaver of fate, soul and making me want to be a better person through his compelling stories. 

Book Review: The Emperor's Soul by Brandon Sanderson

Brandon Sanderson's The Emperor's Soul is a masterful novella that exemplifies his exceptional storytelling prowess. Winner of the Hugo Award for Best Novella, this story is a testament to Sanderson's ability to create a deeply engaging and thought-provoking narrative within a limited page count.

Set in the same universe as his acclaimed novel Elantris, The Emperor's Soul follows the story of Shai, a gifted forger who can magically alter objects' history and essence to transform them into something else. The plot begins with Shai imprisoned after a failed heist. However, instead of facing execution, she is given an impossible task: to forge a new soul for the Emperor, who has been left in a catatonic state after an assassination attempt.

Shai's journey is not just a physical one but also an exploration of identity and redemption. As she works on the Emperor's soul, she reflects on her own life, choices, and the nature of her art. Sanderson deftly weaves themes of identity and self-worth into the narrative, making readers ponder what truly defines a person. Shai's ability to turn her weaknesses into strengths is a central theme, showcasing Sanderson's skill in character development and thematic depth.

One of the novella's most impressive aspects is its innovative magic system. Sanderson's approach to magic is both creative and meticulous, grounding the fantastical elements in a set of well-defined rules. The art of forgery, as presented in the story, is a fascinating blend of magic and craftsmanship. It involves an intricate understanding of an object's history and essence, allowing Shai to alter it convincingly. This concept not only drives the plot but also adds layers of meaning to the story, as Shai's forgeries are symbolic of the changes she undergoes.

Sanderson's writing style is another highlight. His prose is clear and precise, yet rich with detail. He manages to convey complex ideas and emotions succinctly, making the novella both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant. The pacing is perfect, maintaining a steady tension that keeps readers engaged from beginning to end.

(Written with the help of AI)

Writer's Rollercoaster: Maybe I'll write about it

Title: The Writer's Rollercoaster: A Comedic Odyssey

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Ah, the glamorous life of a writer! 

Picture this: seventeen stories birthed from the depths of my imagination, each one like a child I sent out into the world—only to have them return, some with rejection letters, others with agents who mysteriously vanished like literary Houdinis on walkabouts.

Let’s start with the trio that agents loved so much they disappeared faster than my protagonist’s moral compass in a psychological thriller. I swear, their enthusiasm was like a shooting star—brief, dazzling, and then poof! Off they went into the literary cosmos, leaving me staring at my inbox like a jilted lover waiting for a text that never came.

Then there were the six small-town romances. 

Picture this: quaint settings, quirky characters, and enough heartwarming moments to make Hallmark wish they had my stories. But did they sell like hotcakes? Let’s just say they were more like lukewarm scones at a bake sale in a heatwave.

Ah, historical romance—I've come back to this one again and again. Emma and Charles want their story told. I also outlined the story of their parents for a prequel. PLUS! Some of their offspring make appearances in Juniper Valley.

And who can forget the seven young adult psychological thrillers? The plots were twistier then a pretzel in a tornado, and the suspense had me checking my own closet for secrets. If only I could write as fast as my characters ran from their demons, I’d have a Pulitzer by now.

Now, here I stand, dusting off my keyboard like an archaeologist unearthing ancient relics. Despite the rollercoaster of emotions and the occasional urge to run off and join a circus (they need writers, right?), I’ve come to realize that writing isn’t just about agents, genres, or even sales figures.

It’s about the journey—the absurd, unpredictable, and downright hilarious journey of crafting stories that speak to the human experience. So, as I dive back into the literary fray with renewed determination and maybe a slightly twisted sense of humor, I invite you to join me. Because let’s face it, if we can’t laugh at the absurdities of the writing life, we might as well be writing instruction manuals for assembling IKEA furniture.

And remember, whether your characters are solving crimes or falling in love (or both, because why not?), keep writing. After all, the world needs stories. And who knows? Maybe one day, one of mine will finally catch an agent who’s decided to stick around longer than a cup of coffee.

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This humorous blog post takes a lighthearted look at the ups and downs of the writer's journey, poking fun at the quirks of different genres and the unpredictable nature of the publishing world. Also, AI helped me with this post. 

The Hobbit by J. R. R. Tolkien REVIEW

Title: "The Hobbit": A Timeless Classic That Soars Over My Head

As I sit here, pondering Bilbo Baggins' adventures in Tolkien's "The Hobbit," I can't help but feel like I've met up with a good friend after years apart. 

J.R.R. Tolkien’s "The Hobbit" is a tale spun with the finesse of an ancient bard, weaving together dwarves with names longer than my attention span. From the quaint comfort of Bag End to the treacherous peaks of the Misty Mountains, Tolkien paints a world so vivid, it feels as though I could go visit next week. 

The heart of the story beats with Bilbo Baggins, a hobbit whose reluctance to leave the comfort of his hobbit hole, but once he does, he starts on an epic hero's journey. 

But fear not, dear reader! Amidst the labyrinthine plot twists and the bewildering array of character names (seriously, why are there so many dwarves?), "The Hobbit" offers gems that even a hobbit-sized intellect like mine can grasp. Tolkien’s prose sings with a warmth and wit that make even the fiercest battles feel like a fireside tale, and Bilbo’s transformation from a reluctant adventurer to a hero with a heart of gold resonates with a timeless charm.

"The Hobbit" is more than just a literary masterpiece—it's a testament to the power of imagination and the triumph of the unlikely hero. We can all embrace the adventure, savor the riddles, and let Bilbo Baggins remind you that even the smallest of beings can leave the biggest mark on the world.

In conclusion, "The Hobbit" may soar over my head like an eagle riding a thermal, but its magic is undeniable. It's a timeless classic that beckons readers to step outside their comfort zones and journey into the heart of Middle-earth. And who knows? You might just discover a bit of unexpected courage along the way.

Seeking Persephone by Sarah M. Eden

 

If you're searching for a delightful escape into the enchanting world of Regency romance, Sarah M. Eden’s "Seeking Persephone" is a charming pick that promises sweet romance with a dash of humor. This is one of my all time favorite books! 

 Here's why this novel won over my heart:

Set against the backdrop of early 19th-century England, "Seeking Persephone" introduces us to the witty and independent Persephone Lancaster. 

Enter Adam Hunt, the formidable Duke of Kielder, whose imposing presence and stern demeanor belie a kind heart and a determination to protect his family’s legacy. He needs to marry and asks for a woman from a family who needs financial help. 

What sets "Seeking Persephone" apart is its ability to blend humor with heartfelt moments. Eden’s writing style effortlessly weaves together witty banter, endearing characters, and tender romance, creating a narrative that feels both light-hearted and emotionally satisfying. The interactions between Adam and Persephone crackle with chemistry, evolving from initial misunderstandings to genuine affection as they navigate the complexities of their new relationship.

As the story unfolds, "Seeking Persephone" not only explores the growing love between its protagonists but also delves into themes of family loyalty, personal growth, and the power of forgiveness. Persephone’s journey from skepticism to trust, and Adam’s transformation from duty-bound duke to devoted husband, are portrayed with sensitivity and grace. 

In conclusion, "Seeking Persephone" is a delightful read for fans of Regency romance seeking a blend of sweetness, humor, and heartfelt emotion. Sarah M. Eden’s skillful storytelling and engaging characters make this novel a charming addition to any bookshelf—a perfect escape into a world where love triumphs over societal expectations.