tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-41156146610846111742024-02-28T15:43:13.497-08:00Brooke Jean's Book Reviews<center>Worlds at your fingertips. Unlived lives are waiting to be read. Which book will you choose next?</center>BrookeJeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14467414526690166373noreply@blogger.comBlogger135125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4115614661084611174.post-64574082131969530432023-09-21T09:27:00.008-07:002023-09-21T09:27:58.533-07:00Love, Holly by Emma Stone<p> </p><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/78299277-love-holly" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px"><img border="0" alt="Love, Holly" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1684818041l/78299277._SX98_.jpg" /></a><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/78299277-love-holly">Love, Holly</a> by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/21887652.Emily_Stone">Emily Stone</a><br/>
My rating: <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5857630862">4 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
First and foremost, while this book does have a few scenes set around Christmas time, I don't really consider this a Christmas book. Unless you want it to be. Then it definitely is. <br /><br />All three of the main characters face a good deal throughout the book. I wouldn't call this book "fluffy" by any means. There is a lot of grief and mourning and growth that takes place in these pages. It might be painful to read, or comforting, depending on your own life experiences. <br /><br />Holly is such an intricate character. She has her flaws and her strengths and getting to watch her grow throughout the book was heartbreaking (because often times growth proceeds hardship). <br /><br />Emma was probably my favorite character. I suppose older people in books are probably pretty fun to write. They can go through life at that point not caring how blunt or grouchy they are because they've lived long enough and have earned that right. Emma is just the right amount of grouchy old woman, wise friend, and flawed individual. Once you get to know Emma, I think you'll love her too. <br /><br />And finally, Jack. He was living life a bit flat until Holly showed up and kind of imploded everything he knew. The thing I love most about Jack is that he is eventually willing to admit his mistakes and try to change his view once someone suggested it might be a wise idea. <br /><br />The pacing was a bit off in a few places for me but overall this was a quick read and one that I think I'll think about beyond today. <br /><br />Synopsis: Sometimes it takes a stranger to bring you back to yourself.<br /><br />Ever since a car accident tore her family apart, Holly has been part of a lonely-hearts holiday letter–writing club. Each December, she writes to a stranger who is also spending Christmas alone, and receives a letter from another lonely person in return. <br /><br />Usually, the letters go unanswered. That’s the point—the letters are anonymous, and the senders write whatever is in their heart. But this year, the letter Holly receives is different; not only is the letter full of a grief she knows all too well, but its writer, Emma, mentions a place that Holly has visited. When she realizes that she might actually be able to find the letter’s author, Holly becomes determined to reunite Emma with the estranged grandson, Jack, with whom Emma is desperate to reconnect.<br /><br />When Holly finally tracks him down, she remembers that she’s met Jack once before . . . and the connection was electric. The spark between the two of them is still there—until a misunderstanding risks their burgeoning romance and his strained relationship with Emma, too. But Holly is determined; if she can fix Emma’s family, she might also be able to fix her own. Though as it turns out, Holly might have less time to put things right than she thought.<br /><br />Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine for the review copy.
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BrookeJeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14467414526690166373noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4115614661084611174.post-80559269813771108942023-08-13T23:15:00.006-07:002023-08-13T23:15:31.490-07:00Best Friends, Backups and Something More by Ranee S. Clark<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/183854689-best-friends-backups-something-more" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px"><img border="0" alt="Best Friends Backups & Something More: A Sweet Sports Romance inspired by Jane Austen" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1690648539l/183854689._SX98_.jpg" /></a><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/183854689-best-friends-backups-something-more">Best Friends Backups & Something More: A Sweet Sports Romance inspired by Jane Austen</a> by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6150973.Ranee_S_Clark">Ranee S. Clark</a><br/>
My rating: <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5766456663">5 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
Who knew I was a fan of Jane Austen inspired novels? ... Just kidding. I knew. I totally knew. So it will come as no great surprise that I absolutely adored this novel by Ranee S. Clark. <br /><br />Eli was the perfect MMC and the relationship between Court and Eli was completely charming. These two started out as best friends but it wasn't years of pining away for one another. Instead, they met at point where they were both starting new lives and their friendship instantly bloomed. Eli thought he was just as instantly friend-zoned but he enjoyed Court's company so much that he was okay with that.<br /><br />Instant Friendship, secret dating, a little match-making, protective older brother, sports romance is all found in this face-paced easy to read novel.<br /><br />CW: mentions of gaslighting in a relationship <br /><br />This is a super sweet, just kisses novel.<br /><br />I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review of this book. And you should definitely read it too. 4.5 stars rounded up.<br />
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BrookeJeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14467414526690166373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4115614661084611174.post-87446099626523103822023-07-03T09:16:00.002-07:002023-07-03T09:16:10.794-07:00Just A Football Star by Deb Goodman<p> </p><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/181315699-just-a-football-star" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px"><img border="0" alt="Just a Football Star: a Sweet, Small-town Brothers RomCom" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1687801537l/181315699._SX98_.jpg" /></a><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/181315699-just-a-football-star">Just a Football Star: a Sweet, Small-town Brothers RomCom</a> by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/18676255.Deb_Goodman">Deb Goodman</a><br/>
My rating: <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5664405985">5 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
If this story was a drink it'd be a chocolate milkshake! It's muddy and heavy but full of absolute goodness. <br /><br />Oliver's story (Book 1 in this series) is more like a peach flavored sprite. It's light and bubbly and can be consumed in one big swig.<br /><br />So if you go into this book thinking it's more of the same expect a bit of a rude awakening. Both MCs have a rough backstory that comes into play on several occasions. I had to read this in smaller doses because of the heavy nature of some of the conversations but it was still such a great read. 10/10 would recommend over and over again.<br /><br />Alec has been dealt a heavy hand so far in life. Starting with parents that were seldom around, moving on to losing his girlfriend in a tragic accident and finally being forced out of the NFL due to a career ending injury, he's numb and barely making it through life. Until one day Oakley, a jaded but hard-working personal trainer, walks through the doors of the Longdale Resort and starts to change his life one excruciatingly painful rehab exercise after another.<br /><br />Content: Loss of loved one, loss of life purpose, depression, small glimpse into a toxic relationship<br /><br />There is a dog.<br /><br />This is a sweet closed-door rom com.
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BrookeJeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14467414526690166373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4115614661084611174.post-55556325473411316242023-06-27T13:29:00.006-07:002023-06-27T13:29:52.108-07:00The Real Fake Fiance by Sarah Jane Woodley<p> </p><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/80343397-the-real-fake-fianc" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px"><img border="0" alt="The Real Fake Fiancé (Love in Mirror Valley #3)" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1674103051l/80343397._SX98_.jpg" /></a><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/80343397-the-real-fake-fianc">The Real Fake Fiancé</a> by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/20529773.Sara_Jane_Woodley">Sara Jane Woodley</a><br/>
My rating: <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5649222704">4 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
If you love a good friends to lovers story than this will totally be your jam.<br /><br />Dee and Noah have been best friends for as long as they can remember and Noah, well, he's been in love with his best friend for almost as long.<br /><br />When Dee's big city boss comes to Mirror Valley to assess her position and her app-baby, RightMatch, she is determined to see it succeed. At any cost. Even if that cost is dragging her best friend along for a wild ride of fake dating and engagement. But will their friendship be able to stay the same after this is all over. And does Dee still want it to?<br /><br />I do love a good fake dating story and the Volleyball Boys were one of my favorite parts. Glad that Noah and Dee could get their happily ever after!<br /><br />I don't have an entire playlist for this book but here's a few songs that I think fit the bill:<br />- I've Been Thinking about You by Mariah Carey<br />- Home by Edward Sharpe<br />- Can't Fight This Feeling by REO Speedwagon<br /><br />Thank you so much to the Author for the free eARC in exchange for this review which is completely my own thoughts.
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BrookeJeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14467414526690166373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4115614661084611174.post-86073776749139146032023-06-23T12:50:00.003-07:002023-06-23T12:50:37.327-07:00I Think He Knows by Katie Bailey<p> </p><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/62690017-i-think-he-knows" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px"><img border="0" alt="I Think He Knows (Donovan Family #2)" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1663874119l/62690017._SX98_.jpg" /></a><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/62690017-i-think-he-knows">I Think He Knows</a> by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5849291.Katie_Bailey">Katie Bailey</a><br/>
My rating: <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5640455851">4 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
Nailed it. <br /><br />Friends to lovers is not my favorite trope so I am always a little hesitant when I pick one up; however, this was a friends to lovers done right! <br /><br />I enjoyed the heck out of Lana Mae and Carter. Carter's ability to just completely love Allegra makes my heart melt so much. I really wish Target would start selling adult unicorn sleeping bags because that would have been the topping on the cake of this book for me! <br /><br />This is a bit more serious than "So That Just Happened" since there is quite a bit more tragic backstory but there were still a good amount of laughs and I am absolutely ecstatic that Lana Mae finally got her happily ever after.<br /><br />Thank you so much Katie Bailey for the ARC I absolutely enjoyed it. <br /><br />This is a closed door rom-com. <br />
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BrookeJeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14467414526690166373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4115614661084611174.post-81515576506538257032023-06-09T20:15:00.005-07:002023-06-09T20:15:31.486-07:00Faking It With My Best Friend by Kate O'Keeffe<p> </p><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/123579878-faking-it-with-my-best-friend" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px"><img border="0" alt="Faking It With My Best Friend: A Friends to Lovers Sweet Small-Town Romantic Comedy (Second Chance Café Book 2)" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1679602252l/123579878._SX98_.jpg" /></a><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/123579878-faking-it-with-my-best-friend">Faking It With My Best Friend: A Friends to Lovers Sweet Small-Town Romantic Comedy</a> by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/8195990.Kate_O_Keeffe">Kate O'Keeffe</a><br/>
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Gabe and Ryn are freaking adorable. I absolutely love them together. <br /><br /> Gabe does not understand why Ryn is always falling for the bad boy that will, without a doubt, eventually take her heart and smash it. He doesn't get why she doesn't realize she deserves so much better than anything they can offer.<br /><br />Ryn has always had Gabe's back and always will. <br /><br />In a small town, with meddling ladies, it's hard to get out from under the scrutinizing gaze where everyone thinks they should be together. At least once a day they field questions and statements about how they should be together. <br /><br />But they're just friends. Friends forever. Just Gabe and Ryn. Ryn and Gabe. Both totally awesome, attractive, people who definitely do not have feelings for each other. .... Right?<br /><br />This is a classic friends to lovers story with a bit of jealousy and longing and ... friendship!<br /><br />Thanks so much to the author for the eARC!
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BrookeJeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14467414526690166373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4115614661084611174.post-17041189211203948792023-06-06T15:35:00.004-07:002023-06-06T15:35:44.425-07:00Me & Mr. Just Right by Kaylee Baldwin<p> </p><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/123996785-me-and-mr-just-right" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px"><img border="0" alt="Me and Mr. Just Right: A Sweet Romantic Comedy" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1682087169l/123996785._SX98_.jpg" /></a><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/123996785-me-and-mr-just-right">Me and Mr. Just Right: A Sweet Romantic Comedy</a> by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4385886.Kaylee_Baldwin">Kaylee Baldwin</a><br/>
My rating: <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5601158624">4 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
I am completely infatuated with the Forrester siblings. So much so I really don't know who I love the most. They were the icing on the cake. The cherry on top. The creme de la creme. <br /><br />You have Jules, the grumpy lawyer. Bennett the adorable and a little heartbroken eternal optimist. Haydn, the outdoor photographer and "glue that holds them all together". And then you have Rosie: the youngest Forrester who is always scheming in one way or another. <br /><br />Thanks to Rosie's scheming Lia finds herself in a bit of a Goldilocks scenario. She planned to get away from the spotlight and decompress--what better way than spending a week on an uninhabited island? Except the Forrester brother's also planned a trip to their family cabin that same week. On that same island. Soon she is well on her way to finding her her mr. juuust right.<br /><br />The way the brothers seamlessly insert Lia into their lives made my heart melt. The way they helped her find herself again was heartwarming all while being their silly selves. I was laughing the whole way through.
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BrookeJeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14467414526690166373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4115614661084611174.post-9021741314368434782023-05-31T13:42:00.005-07:002023-05-31T13:42:26.284-07:00Strawberry Fields for Never by Kate Watson<p> </p><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/149116523-strawberry-fields-for-never" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px;"><img alt="Strawberry Fields for Never: An Enemies to Lovers Sweet Romantic Comedy (Sweet as Sugar Maple Book 1)" border="0" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1683312629l/149116523._SX98_.jpg" /></a><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/149116523-strawberry-fields-for-never">Strawberry Fields for Never: An Enemies to Lovers Sweet Romantic Comedy</a> by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/218920.Kate_Watson">Kate Watson</a><br />
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Imagine being on the brink of broke when suddenly you snag a multi-millionaire marketing client for your self-started business. The only catch: you have to sign the contract today and you have to spend significant time on-sight so you can really get to the heart of what makes the company tick. <br /><br />Oh, and you have to convince the owner's grandson that the place is worth sticking around for.<br /><br />Wow. Jane and Tripp, what a ride!<br /><br />While Strawberry Fields for Never is marketed as an "Enemies to Lovers sweet romantic comedy", I personally would call it a friends to lovers where they made a bad (first) second impression. There was some snarky banter but it always felt more to me like flirty friends banter than enemies. <br /><br />I really appreciate a relationship where both people can support the other. Tripp and Jane were a bit like night and day but they complimented each other in all the right ways. Jane needed that love and support. She had to grow up way too early in life and has taken on the "mother" role even when maybe she shouldn't. Tripp who has never quite felt good enough was able to find that in Jane. Together they were both able to work through their traumas and hone their strengths. And when they messed up they had their friends to get them back on the right path.<br /><br />Speaking of friends: The friend groups in this book were one of my favorite things, I wish I'd been able to have more of them! I can't wait to read about Millie and Duke.<br /><br />Also ... there were baby llamas. So ... <br /><br />This is a sweet and swoony romantic comedy (i.e. no spice/closed door)<br /><br />Thanks for the chance to read an eARC Kate Watson! It was a pleasure.
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BrookeJeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14467414526690166373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4115614661084611174.post-31306808007277989182023-05-26T21:33:00.001-07:002023-05-26T21:33:15.701-07:00A Lady's Guide to Fortune-Hunting by Sophie Irwin<p> </p><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/59656358-a-lady-s-guide-to-fortune-hunting" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px;"><img alt="A Lady's Guide to Fortune-Hunting" border="0" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1637358784l/59656358._SX98_.jpg" /></a><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/59656358-a-lady-s-guide-to-fortune-hunting">A Lady's Guide to Fortune-Hunting</a> by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/21698259.Sophie_Irwin">Sophie Irwin</a><br />
My rating: <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5574599712">5 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
The banter in this book was just my favorite. Kitty and [James] Lord Radcliffe were certainly equals in verbal sparring and A Lady's Guide to Fortune Hunting did not disappoint.<br /><br />The writing wasn't perfect-a sort of omniscient 3rd person point of view-and I did sometimes not quite follow who was thinking a certain train of thought, but I could easily overlook that little folly with the fantastic hate/hate relationship we had going on. <br /><br />"It occurred to them both, then-though of course they did not know it-that they might equally have agreed to pistols at dawn."<br /><br />And that moment he mutters, "That little devil" may be my favorite. Even though it was full of condemnation I think there may have been just a smidge of respect; not that he'd ever let her know that, of course.<br /><br />I have been in a bit of a book funk lately and this book pulled me out of it and set me merrily on my way. So happy I finally pulled it off my TBR shelf and gave it a read!
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BrookeJeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14467414526690166373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4115614661084611174.post-49306244540327898752023-05-15T21:20:00.006-07:002023-05-15T21:20:59.449-07:00Smart Move by Amanda Pennington<p> </p><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/123178344-smart-move" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px"><img border="0" alt="Smart Move (Work For It, #7)" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1677960980l/123178344._SX98_.jpg" /></a><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/123178344-smart-move">Smart Move</a> by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/22252222.Amanda_Pennington">Amanda Pennington</a><br/>
My rating: <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5550165563">4 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
I absolutely adored Ivy and Toby and I was completely besotted with this story.<br /><br />Ivy, a failed artist with synesthesia--someone who sees sounds as colors--has given up on love and has contented herself to live a mostly quiet and solitary life until one day her world is turned upside down. An accident forces Ivy's hand and soon her quiet haven of a home is full of noise and chaos as her mother and her neighbor join forces to destroy every semblance of normalcy Ivy thought she had.<br /><br />Toby, the eternal optimist and epitome sunshine personality has decided that he's not letting Ivy get away. After months of pining and anticipating their semi-annual greeting at the Registrar's office he's going to make a move. But will Ivy let him?<br /><br />Ivy and Toby were opposites in so many ways but the growth Ivy went through was possibly one of my favorite character arcs I've read in a long time. What mattered most to her was a constant but how Toby affected and ultimately changed her view of the world around her was my absolute favorite! Toby was so patient and understanding but he wasn't the only one bringing something to the relationship. I think this give and take between the two of them is why I loved them so much. <br /><br />This is a closed door Rom-Com. <br /><br />Thank you so much to the author, Amanda Pennington, for the eARC. This review is a reflection of my own thoughts.
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BrookeJeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14467414526690166373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4115614661084611174.post-35799826939605611632023-03-16T19:06:00.003-07:002023-03-16T19:06:19.375-07:00The Neighbor Renovation by Grace Worthington<p> </p><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/66293746-the-neighbor-renovation" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px;"><img alt="The Neighbor Renovation (Renovation Romance Sweet RomCom #1)" border="0" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1670949358l/66293746._SX98_.jpg" /></a><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/66293746-the-neighbor-renovation">The Neighbor Renovation</a> by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/20964782.Grace_Worthington">Grace Worthington</a><br />
My rating: <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5399870478">5 of 5 stars</a><br /><br /><div dir="auto">"I can't believe I just used the word naked and groped in the same sentence. If there's a sure way to scare off a woman, I've nailed it." - Grant <div dir="auto"><br /></div><div dir="auto">This books summery beach vibes were a well needed dose of vitamin SEA ... Especially in this eternal winter I feel like I'm currently living through. </div><div dir="auto"><br /></div><div dir="auto">If you like emotionally unavailable grumpy men, Grant may just be your next great book boyfriend. </div><div dir="auto"><br /></div><div dir="auto">And Ella is the dose of sunshine he REALLY doesn't want in his life right now. </div><div dir="auto"><br /></div><div dir="auto">When their lives collide after years apart, you can bet just about everything that can go wrong, will go wrong ... and I was there for the whole fantastic ride. It did not disappoint. </div><div dir="auto"><br /></div><div dir="auto">Ella is ready to make her interior design dreams come true by fixing up her Aunt's beach house and entering in a reality TV design show. Unfortunately, her aunt backs out last minute and leaves her in a bit of lurch to find a new space.</div></div><br />Grant is in town for the summer to fix up his granny's beach home. The place with all his childhood summer memories. Too bad change is hard and he knows next to nothing about how to make this place great. He'd ask Ella for help but he's committed to making this summer one of quiet introspection, i.e. alone time. Lots of alone time. And Ella is anything but quiet. <br /><br />Do you see where this is going? <br /> <br />Ella is a bubbly, outgoing in your face kind of person while grant is your classic grump. The problem is, he hasn't always been that way and Ella is determined to find "fun Grant" again. The banter these two share is great and their ability to hide behind pizza store shrubbery is noteworthy. I loved reading about Ella pulling Grant from his shell and watching him open himself up to friendship and feeling anything again.<br /><br />The rest of the story is full of rivaling family drama, hurricanes, target shopping trips, fantastic friend groups, and lots of remodeling. <br /><br />In case you're wondering: This is a sweet and swoony romance. (i.e. no spice/closed door romance)<br /><br />Happy reading!
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BrookeJeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14467414526690166373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4115614661084611174.post-36129550952286365792023-03-04T18:56:00.002-08:002023-03-04T18:56:35.268-08:00Just A Friend by Deb Goodman<p> </p><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/123165158-just-a-friend" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px;"><img alt="Just a Friend: a Sweet, Small-town Brothers RomCom" border="0" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1677769641l/123165158._SX98_.jpg" /></a><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/123165158-just-a-friend">Just a Friend: a Sweet, Small-town Brothers RomCom</a> by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/18676255.Deb_Goodman">Deb Goodman</a><br />
My rating: <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5390631770">5 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
So yeah. I'm officially obsessed with the Tate Brothers!<br /><br />I was so lucky to get an advanced copy of Just A Friend and I devoured it. It was painful to put it down and get a good night's sleep so I did what any (in)sane adult would do. I stayed up way too late reading. Two words: WORTH IT. <br /><br />Oliver and Sophia are so cute--friends since their teen years with a long standing "not a date" date each August to meet up for shakes. Until one year Oliver doesn't show and Sophia is determined she's done pining for her long distance friend.<div><br /></div><div> I am very hit and miss on the friends to love trope but this book was a great mix of longing and loving. 10/10 would recommend this sweet swoony read. <br /><br />I can't wait to find out which Tate brother's love story is up next!<br /><br />Thank you Deb Goodman for this fun read!
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</div>BrookeJeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14467414526690166373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4115614661084611174.post-40178755761340687582023-02-24T17:36:00.000-08:002023-02-24T17:36:05.184-08:00Hello Stranger by Katherine Center<p> </p><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61884987-hello-stranger" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px;"><img alt="Hello Stranger" border="0" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1667138448l/61884987._SX98_.jpg" /></a><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61884987-hello-stranger">Hello Stranger</a> by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/409113.Katherine_Center">Katherine Center</a><br />
My rating: <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5182353436">5 of 5 stars</a><br /><br /><div>
"Are you asking me to be your anybody?" <br /><br />Sadie Montgomery has spent a good deal of her life determined not to need anyone. Not again. Not after losing her mom at a young age, and losing her father to his grief. But things are finally looking up for her when she places in the top 10 of a prestigious art contest--she knows this is her big break. She is about to finally prove her haters wrong. Until she's headed home one day and wakes up in the hospital. Soon her whole life is thrown upside down and she has to rely on other's help more than ever before.<br /><br />Oh. My. Goodness. Katherine Center does it again. I absolutely adore this book. This book is a lot more serious than some of the others I've read, but still light enough to definitely stay in the rom com category. Sadie is going through A LOT and I think having it any more lighthearted than it is would have detracted from her struggles. It was a perfect balance of reality and escapism.<br /><br />I was completely invested in Sadie's story and I loved how it played out. My only complaint, and it's minor, is that I wanted this to be longer. Mostly to get to know Joe and Dr. Addison a little bit more. I feel like we barely scraped the surface of these guys and yet I still loved them. I think it would have been fun to have Joe and Dr. Addison's POV once they were introduced into the story. I think it would have given that extra layer. But that's easy for me to say. I just sat on the couch and read this work of art. I didn't have to figure out all the fun details. <br /><br />All that to say, this is a book that was totally worth staying up until 2am to finish. <br /><br />As with the other Center books I've read it is a closed door romance so keep that in mind going in. Not a lot of steam but a lot of sweet and swoony.<br /><br />Thank you so much Net Galley and Katherine Center for the eARC. I can't wait to get my hands on a physical copy!
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</div>BrookeJeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14467414526690166373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4115614661084611174.post-20340157923826965902023-02-21T22:07:00.001-08:002023-02-21T22:07:24.283-08:00Real Love by Rachel Lindsay<p> </p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61897945-real-love" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px;"><img alt="Real Love" border="0" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1666028453l/61897945._SX98_.jpg" /></a><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61897945-real-love">Real Love</a> by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/21645804.Rachel_Lindsay">Rachel Lindsay</a><br />
My rating: <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5364576119">3 of 5 stars</a><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">Dedication: "This book is dedicated to:</span><br style="color: #222222;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">All of those held captive to their "life plans"... free yourself</span><br style="color: #222222;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">All of those who are wondering what is on the other side of the rainbow... go look for yourself</span><br style="color: #222222;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">All of those who are ready to take flight but are too afraid to try... soar</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: small;">"</span></span><div><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
"I wish I could say it was one thing. But the truth is, I think occasions I don't even remember might've shaped me the most. All of those instances where I ignored what brought me joy and placed everyone else's happiness over mine turned me into who I am today."<br /><br />Real Love is a novel about a woman who is taking on the world. She is everything she should be and she wouldn't have it any other way. Until a turned down opportunity to go a Reality TV show shows her everything she just might be missing. <br /><br />My favorite part of this story was probably the relationship between Maya and Ella. I was rooting for them to really build that sisterly relationship that they'd lost, break down the barriers that they'd put up between each other due to differing life circumstances. <br /><br />Kai and Delilah were both great. I just wish I'd been able to get to know them more as characters instead of as plot points to move our heroine toward her destination. Because of this lack of depth with Kai the relationship also fell a little flat. I was definitely getting into the new romance when suddenly I was like, wait--are they not talking anymore? Why isn't he around? ... He just wasn't that big a part of the story. <br /><br />Now my biggest grievance is probably the ending. I'll just say that the ending made me realize all the ways I still don't quite understand Maya. I was told her story but it was still pretty surface level so I didn't feel the connection I sometimes do--the connection that gives you insight into their choices before they make them themselves. <br /><br />So, with that being said, I did enjoy the story. I don't think I would classify this as a romance per se. It's a book that has romance in it though. <br /><br />It was a fun, quick read with some great insight on choosing yourself, choosing happiness and not focusing on who others want you to be.<br /><br />Thank you so much Net Galley and Rachel Lindsay for this eARC.
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</div>BrookeJeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14467414526690166373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4115614661084611174.post-22658983242110358212023-02-17T23:03:00.005-08:002023-02-17T23:23:27.999-08:00Forget Me Twice by Carina Taylor<p><br /></p><div><br /></div><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61643353-forget-me-twice" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px;"><img alt="Forget Me Twice" border="0" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1658426948l/61643353._SX98_.jpg" /></a><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61643353-forget-me-twice">Forget Me Twice</a> by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/19103305.Carina_Taylor">Carina Taylor</a><br />
My rating: <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5354424962">4 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
Dedication: <b>To Power Nappers around the world. You truly are amazing. Please teach me your ways. </b><br /><br /> Ah, the classic divorced couple story where one person completely forgets they're divorced and the other one has to fake that they're in a loving marriage until ...<br /><br />Oh wait. Not something I've actually read before but it was certainly an entertaining premise! <br /><br />Meyer and her ex, Archie, were in love and then after that they were maybe not as much in love but they were still married. And then Archie left her. And their cat. And their cute little house. And then they were nothing. A year later and Meyer is still trying to move on when she gets a phone call out of the blue letting her know that her husband is in the hospital. <br /><br />Only problem, she doesn't have a husband anymore. After rushing to the hospital she discovers that Archie is back. Not only is he back but he's lost two years of memories. In other words, he no longer remembers the year of fights and the year he spent in a completely different state moving on. <br /><br />Review: This book was certainly a fast-paced and enjoyable read. I actually love stories about couples who were in love and then life happens and maybe they aren't anymore but the rest of the book is about trying to get that love back. It's just not done very often and if it's done well, it is so enjoyable to read. Meyer and Archie have some great, friendly banter and I can definitely see why they fell for each other in the first place. <br /><br />While I absolutely enjoyed Forget Me Twice, I do wish there had been more focus on the character's growth. I was told a lot about how they grew but it did fall a little short since I don't think we, as readers, get to witness that growth within the story. I also wanted a little more angst or pining. I think that Meyer finds out Archie's secret a little too soon. I think there was a lot of missed opportunities with that timing but it was still a great read overall.<br /><br />Thank you Net Galley for the e-arc! It was a pleasure reading.
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BrookeJeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14467414526690166373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4115614661084611174.post-81972156639263114092012-10-19T09:48:00.001-07:002012-10-19T09:52:14.934-07:00Forever...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ11-WAXw0Gw0Qo8rZEjRh_6-SNNUShUsibcq6DwcEEfL2Z_fZFG-kYw2PY6gwTC8OUF6pFMMnUjUhSehHOcxwbtzlmyI-AsKdgxwIA60Uxbk9FFERQANfRW3zuuCXaWk8_j03nrNcWeE/s1600/forever.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ11-WAXw0Gw0Qo8rZEjRh_6-SNNUShUsibcq6DwcEEfL2Z_fZFG-kYw2PY6gwTC8OUF6pFMMnUjUhSehHOcxwbtzlmyI-AsKdgxwIA60Uxbk9FFERQANfRW3zuuCXaWk8_j03nrNcWeE/s320/forever.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
by Judy Blume<br />
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Dedication: "For Randy <i>as promised ... with love</i>"<br />
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First paragraph: "Sybil Davison has a genius I.Q. and has been laid by at least six different guys. She told me herself, the last time she was visiting her cousin, Erica, who is my good friend. Erica says this is because of Sybil's fat problem and her need to feel loved---the getting laid part, that is. The genius I.Q. is just luck or genes or something. I"m not sure that either explanation is 100 percent right but generally Erica is very good at analyzing people."<br />
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Review: Plot of the book is pretty simple: Katherine, Kath for short, loves Michael. Michael loves Kath. There is the looming future, i.e. graduation, that could rip them apart or maybe bring them together.<br />
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... ... ... I have never seen so many ellipses in one book. (I would have said, "I've never seen so many ellipses in my life but, thanks to my favorite people on Twitter, that's not exactly true.) The ellipses were overwhelming and the dialogue was so dry. <br />
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When I say the dialogue was dry I mean, I was two chapters in and cringing every time someone spoke. I would have stopped reading then and there but it had taken me a whole minute and a half to get through chapter one so I figured I'd finish the book pretty quickly--luckily, I was right.<br />
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So supposedly Michael and Kath are super in love. What they have is something special. But, I didn't buy it. At all. Their conversations were not special. To me, it felt like guy wanted sex. Girl didn't. Eventually girl did so guy got what he wanted. Somewhere in the mix "I love you"'s were thrown in to make it sound more meaningful. It felt like Blume just wrote "and then they fell in love through a series of meaningful conversations that I'm too lazy, or incapable of typing out." Maybe that was Blume's point the whole time? That an 18 year old can't actually be in love? I don't think that was her point but if it was, she definitely came close to proving it.<br />
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Other than that, the only reason I finished the book was because it was short and easy. If I'd gone to bed with a chapter unfinished I probably wouldn't have picked it up again.<br />
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In a way it's just an interesting sex ed book. I guess if you want your kid to figure out how the birds and the bees work and where to go to get sex ed information so you don't have to have "The Talk" then you should have them read this.<br />
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Eh.<br />
<br />BrookeJeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14467414526690166373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4115614661084611174.post-8285474702993678942012-10-08T00:08:00.003-07:002012-10-08T00:08:35.862-07:00The Savage Grace, (A Dark Divine Novel, Book Three) [ebook]<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfAiQ-GigV6KJwKjfHFfQq65UsUWkuN1TJiuPja4XgXv1Aqh4s8WG4_gd5nK7q641LO3EXPjUZBAzs9QTLJOtmFtP399wHN0Yf2aETnmkt6xpWQM2Q_hTDZ5S7BmGcb3Y46LdTWZB6WIE/s1600/10345642.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfAiQ-GigV6KJwKjfHFfQq65UsUWkuN1TJiuPja4XgXv1Aqh4s8WG4_gd5nK7q641LO3EXPjUZBAzs9QTLJOtmFtP399wHN0Yf2aETnmkt6xpWQM2Q_hTDZ5S7BmGcb3Y46LdTWZB6WIE/s320/10345642.jpg" width="212" /></a>by Bree Despain <br />
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Dedication: "For Brick-- Because we both know that you practically deserve a byline in this book. Thank you for always inspiring me. Always, Bree"<br />
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First paragraph: "<i>He knew me too well. Read the writing on my heart. He knew exactly what it would take--For me to embrace this savagery." </i><br />
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Review: <i> </i>As always, since this is the third book in the trilogy, I'd suggest reading <a href="http://brookejeansbooks.blogspot.com/2011/02/dark-divine.html"><span style="font-style: italic;">The Dark Divine</span></a> first, quickly followed by <i><a href="http://brookejeansbooks.blogspot.com/2011/03/lost-saint-dark-divine-novel-book-two.html" target="_blank">The Lost Saint</a></i> before reading any more of this review. Spoilers for the first two books lie below.<br />
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Grace, Grace, Grace. She's had quite a year--much more than any high school student should have to deal with, really. She finally cured Daniel just to lose him to the White Wolf. She's desperate for a cure and she's constantly battling with her inner wolf to stay the kind, good-hearted person she's always been. This book takes you through that journey and what a journey it is.<br />
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Oh, Grace. She's come a long way. Even still, first-half-of-the-book-Grace was driving me crazy; although, I think that was sort of the point. Luckily, she became a bit more tolerable and things went up from there. There were a few times I cringed at her behavior but, all in all, I can't say I'd react any differently if I'd been in her shoes.<br />
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Hands down, the worst thing about this book was the editing. Maybe it was just the ebook version (not sure how/if it differs from the print version) but it was awful. I would understand a few misplaced commas or a periods, that's fine. But this was beyond that--to the point where it hindered my immersion in the story. Someone really needed to do a better job. I guess that's a good thing for Despain though--the worst part of the book wasn't her doing.<br />
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On the opposite spectrum, in my opinion, the best part of this book was probably the character growth. Like I said before, Grace was driving me crazy for half the book but she finally came around and was able to make some changes. She became a better person, and in turn, a much more likeable character. Her growth throughout the series is easily seen and she makes a great female protagonist. <br />
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As I'd stated in my review of <i>The Dark Divine</i>, the story did still had a few minor parallels to the Twilight Series but it's separated itself enough at this point that I can say Despain really did go her own way and make it her own and, unlike the final battle in <i>Breaking Dawn</i>, [SPOILER .. sort of] ...... there was actually a battle. A fairly big one.<br />
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Finally, I just wanted to talk about about my love for the importance that Grace places in religion and how it tethers her to her reality. It's important to her and she never wavers from that. It's nice to have someone firm in their beliefs despite the things that are thrown at her--and there is a lot that's thrown at her throughout the series.<br />
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If you've read books one and two, you definitely need to go pick up <i>The Savage Grace</i>. If you haven't read those, get on it. Now that the trilogy is complete there shouldn't be anything holding you back!<br />
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<a href="http://www.breedespain.com/books.html" target="_blank">Click here</a> for Bree Despain's OFFICIAL <i>The Dark Divine</i> Trilogy website.BrookeJeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14467414526690166373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4115614661084611174.post-91605918806781012422012-10-02T22:12:00.000-07:002012-10-02T23:05:29.518-07:00Outlander<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN6llI5vdRdanltN78CWDIGzX9DYqPlst8I9XYmEcUZ41kX_-rURRt49-1o84PCnfXEwksu66muB8LVVUijBUBL4aZBcRoHPQzWH8zHhtH65mG4R_1HjJSmxuvnhSEQX6kbxJB0_Hs_TQ/s1600/200px-Outlander_cover_2001_paperback_edition.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN6llI5vdRdanltN78CWDIGzX9DYqPlst8I9XYmEcUZ41kX_-rURRt49-1o84PCnfXEwksu66muB8LVVUijBUBL4aZBcRoHPQzWH8zHhtH65mG4R_1HjJSmxuvnhSEQX6kbxJB0_Hs_TQ/s1600/200px-Outlander_cover_2001_paperback_edition.jpg" /></a>by Diana Gabaldon<br />
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Dedication: "To the Memory of My Mother, Who Taught Me to Read--- Jacqueline Sykes Gabaldon"<br />
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First paragraph: "It wasn't a very likely place for disappearances, at least at first glance. Mrs. Baird's was like a thousand other Highland bed-and-breakfast establishments in 1945; clean and quiet, with fading floral wallpaper, gleaming floors, and a coin-operated hot-water geyser in the lavatory. Mrs. Baird herself was squat and easygoing, and made no objection to Frank lining her tiny rose-sprigged parlor with the dozens of books and papers with which he always traveled."<br />
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Review: I thought about reviewing this book, I did. But it's not going to happen. I'm just happy to have finished it--not that it was a bad read, it just took forever since my life is a little more than crazy at the moment. And, even if I did review it, it wouldn't be a good review. I've been plucking my way through this book for seven months. I can barely remember last week, let alone details from a book I read seven months ago. <strike>Not</strike> Surprisingly, turns out having a baby is time consuming.<br />
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Anyway, I just wanted to post that I finished! And I'm still reading---even if it's at a lot slower pace these days.BrookeJeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14467414526690166373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4115614661084611174.post-5358750484942862852012-02-17T21:20:00.000-08:002012-02-17T21:35:19.269-08:00The Death Cure (Maze Runner Trilogy, Book 3)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN2UmLUd1_TK-NwM8vLoTwOP8jGk5En7i2VOu_HjEtJa2xkbzhWLpscGW593unR9cEZYlc4KF_z1JhkaD_8QqCUHkVOzTZ1NnrDS-4rUGvcZ1nkwFoyTyGPuf_jurZTXTtxP-XSnd0JvY/s1600/TDC+Cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN2UmLUd1_TK-NwM8vLoTwOP8jGk5En7i2VOu_HjEtJa2xkbzhWLpscGW593unR9cEZYlc4KF_z1JhkaD_8QqCUHkVOzTZ1NnrDS-4rUGvcZ1nkwFoyTyGPuf_jurZTXTtxP-XSnd0JvY/s320/TDC+Cover.jpg" width="209" /></a></div>
by James Dashner<br />
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Dedication: "This book is for my mom---the best human to ever live."<br />
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First paragraph: "It was the smell that began to drive Thomas slightly mad."<br />
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Review: After surviving <i><a href="http://brookejeansbooks.blogspot.com/2010/01/maze-runner.html" target="_blank">The Maze Runner</a> </i>and <a href="http://brookejeansbooks.blogspot.com/2011/05/scorch-trials.html" target="_blank"><i>The Scorch Trials</i></a>, the remaining Gladers find themselves in WICKED being told that the lies are over, the trials are through and the "subjects" can finally have their memories back. The only problem is, WICKED is still WICKED and some of the Gladers aren't so willing to let bygones be bygones. Is the cure really just days away? What will it take to end the spread of the Flare and how much further is WICKED willing to go to make it happen?<br />
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Make sure you've read <i>The Maze Runner </i>and <i>The Scorch Trials</i> before starting this book because there is a lot that takes place in the first two books in this trilogy.<br />
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<i>The Death Cure</i> has action, suspense, death, plot twists and loss and finally a few answers to all those questions you probably have. <br />
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It's a complex plot that is carried out rather well. Unfortunately, the characters aren't as well developed in this book. I lost any emotional attachment I'd previously established with the characters so when one died I may have thought, "Oh. That's too bad" but it wasn't any more than that - even with more prominent characters. I wanted to feel what Thomas was feeling but it was impossible to feel the loss of his friends' because I just wasn't connected to them like I once was.<br />
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While the story wasn't everything I hoped it would be it was still quite the page turner. There were a few plot points that were never really explained but you have to choose your battles and Dashner did answer a lot of things that had been a mystery up until now. <br />
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I still have other things to say but all of these thoughts will spoil the plot so I'm just going to stop there and say that this is an enjoyable read and I'd definitely suggest this trilogy if you haven't read it yet.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.jamesdashner.com/" target="_blank">Click here for James Dashner's website and information on <i>The Kill Order, </i>the PREQUEL to <i>The Maze Runner </i>which will be released in 2012.</a>BrookeJeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14467414526690166373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4115614661084611174.post-58493141123682215492012-02-13T14:28:00.000-08:002012-02-13T14:28:43.565-08:00Crossed<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqCJxQNLbJMVqpDqg29I84bTmuu45D4_LMmWV6uC8cgITpxlMm6PKWm7tuVIlEvyDgHXvCEwC-Tars0AJAEpXAL3lBpPU3tgt4fYD4WlVjY0X8ba_ddbjEbRgpy_RGPA6PsKr5nq2H5R4/s1600/Crossed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqCJxQNLbJMVqpDqg29I84bTmuu45D4_LMmWV6uC8cgITpxlMm6PKWm7tuVIlEvyDgHXvCEwC-Tars0AJAEpXAL3lBpPU3tgt4fYD4WlVjY0X8ba_ddbjEbRgpy_RGPA6PsKr5nq2H5R4/s400/Crossed.jpg" width="265" /></a></div>
by Ally Condie<br />
<br />
Dedication: "For Ian, who looked up, and started to climb"<br />
<br />
First paragraph: "<i>I'm standing in a river. It's blue. Dark blue. Reflecting the color of the evening sky."</i><br />
<br />
Review: <i> </i>This is the second book in the <a href="http://brookejeansbooks.blogspot.com/2011/05/matched.html" target="_blank"><i>Matched</i></a> series. However, before you read any more of my review, I'd highly suggest going out and getting a copy of that book and reading it since I can't really review this book without spoiling at least part of the plot of <i>Matched </i>and this is definitely a series worth reading.<br />
<br />
---<br />
<br />
<i>Crossed</i> picks up right where <i>Matched</i> left off. There is no extensive reintroducing of characters or reminding you of what is going on. I think that's a good thing (unless you had to wait a year for the second book to come out) because I hate reading a series where each book spends the first 50 pages retelling what you really should have already read.<br />
<br />
Cassia has been sent to a work camp to help squelch her rebellious attitude that developed after her Match Banquet, or at least that's what The Society believes. Little do they know, Cassia wanted to be sent away - to be given a chance to find where Ky was sent and bring him home. Cassia is cunning, smart and knows it won't be easy so she leaves behind the safety of Xander and her future and teams up with a girl named Indie to set out on the adventure of her life. It doesn't take long to realize she's searching for more than her stolen love - she searching for a rebellion. <br />
<br />
I have an intense love for Utopian society stories. Of course they are never as perfect as they seem and it's always fun to see what the author's imagination can create for the futuristic perfect society. Condie creates the perfect image of this for me. I feel like each detail is carefully thought out and The Society is definitely trying to do good but has lost sight of some of the most important characteristics of a successful leadership. They've decided to bind their citizens to them through lies and deception rather than inspire loyalty through commitment to do good and make the world a better place.<br />
<br />
The characters - Cassia, Ky, Xander - are further developed. We get a chance to get to know more about Ky's history. Something I've been dying to discover since I first read <i>Matched </i>back in May. Cassia's development was lacking but I feel like we spent so much time learning about her in the first book that it didn't detract from this story. As for Xander - I still don't know what to think about him. I'm confused. He's a mystery that I think will be discovered in the final book. Even Condie's less prominent characters were developed as much or as little as they needed to be to make this story great.<br />
<br />
Finally, I love the strong female role Cassia plays. She relies on others and trusts them as much as someone with her upbringing would trust. She makes her decisions based on this upbringing but she pushes herself harder than normal citizens would and she is determined to right the wrongs she has committed. She's determined to give others the life they deserve and not the one they were assigned.<br />
<br />
The only flaw: the final book in the series isn't released until Fall 2012 and this book does not have a satisfying ending! It leaves you with questions that need answering now - not in 8 months from now!<br />
<br />
Oh well. <a href="http://matched-book.com/" target="_blank">Until then you can click here for Ally Condie's official <i>Matched </i>series website.</a>BrookeJeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14467414526690166373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4115614661084611174.post-75675139485894619952012-01-22T13:28:00.000-08:002012-01-22T13:30:00.451-08:00The Book of Lost Things<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPX8O9QUHqDFs6E8hydMXG_nJreXCSLUrwkv47sbdXJ8SKJftA08wNVBwUG4bfNbltW8r5tW7JKqH1ioYdWwraSb0WF6AlHQPWKMuDRbLu7PF1qWw180I3hZA_HQeu2PNs5aOc279gtdQ/s1600/n172336.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPX8O9QUHqDFs6E8hydMXG_nJreXCSLUrwkv47sbdXJ8SKJftA08wNVBwUG4bfNbltW8r5tW7JKqH1ioYdWwraSb0WF6AlHQPWKMuDRbLu7PF1qWw180I3hZA_HQeu2PNs5aOc279gtdQ/s320/n172336.jpg" width="199" /></a></div>
<br />
By John Connolly<br />
<br />
Dedication: "This book is dedicated to an adult, Jennifer Ridyard, and to Cameron and Alistair Ridyard, who will be adults all too soon.<br />
<br />
"For in every adult dwells the child that was, and in every child lies the adult that will be."<br />
<br />
First paragraph: "Once upon a time--for that is how all stories should begin--there was a boy who lost his mother."<br />
<br />
Review: In the middle of WWII, David is struggling with the death of his mother and his father's remarriage. It isn't that Rose is unkind or that she's constantly forcing him to do things he'd rather not--it's just the dilemma many young children face when they feel their parent is being replaced by someone else. It doesn't help when Georgie, David's new half-brother, enters the picture.<br />
<br />
Soon, David's precious books start whispering and before long he finds himself in a world where the fairytales he loves to read have come alive. Unfortunately, they all seem to have taken a dark twist from the "Happily Ever Afters" he's always known.<br />
<br />
I love a twist on a fairy tale. I don't think there should be one way to tell them. Connolly definitely managed to re-write a few of the stories and I loved that aspect. However, before you go stick this book in front of your child, you should know that this was a dark book.<br />
<br />
I started reading it thinking it might be for kids around 12-14+ but by the time I finished I'd upgraded the age to about 16 or 17. In fact, I might even say this is more of a "Adult Fiction with Teen Allure" than a YA Fiction book. My reasoning? This is a nightmare inducing story. It's disturbing and dark and cynical and it takes happily ever afters and says, "Happily ever after means getting eaten really fast". So, pretty much every story ends with someone being eaten. From the Louts (werewolves) to the 30 foot long slimy beast, this is not a childhood bedtime story. But it was a great story. Connolly managed to create a whole new world where every story was tied together into one land. And Rumple- I mean the "Crooked Man" has corrupted the land for his own pleasure and gain. <br />
<br />
Excessively gory but well written. Connolly did what all authors should do; he created a world the reader could escape into. Unfortunately, this particular book has the side-effect where the stories may follow you back and become nightmares you'd rather not remember.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.johnconnollybooks.com/novels_lost.php" target="_blank">Click here for John Connolly's website for <i>The Book of Lost Things.</i></a>BrookeJeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14467414526690166373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4115614661084611174.post-44932341957042207272012-01-07T23:25:00.000-08:002012-01-07T23:42:25.620-08:00The Book of Three<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV7Kiaw7EEfXi2IrOQoQ03QY7oaaImcoalvL0RzGVX3hPVyHe8HxiolaxH8UY1IXCz3wrzgAr2OjmFB1N-EBj0CliT-d4icQlEUmZGN2ccpwtC97nxSjzFJ_ZCQJRTG0XZbDSBcc19OXQ/s1600/The+Book+of+Three.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV7Kiaw7EEfXi2IrOQoQ03QY7oaaImcoalvL0RzGVX3hPVyHe8HxiolaxH8UY1IXCz3wrzgAr2OjmFB1N-EBj0CliT-d4icQlEUmZGN2ccpwtC97nxSjzFJ_ZCQJRTG0XZbDSBcc19OXQ/s400/The+Book+of+Three.jpg" width="280" /></a></div>
By Lloyd Alexander<br />
<br />
Dedication: "For the Children who listened, The grown-ups who were patient, and especially for Ann Durell"<br />
<br />
First paragraph: "Taran wanted to make a sword; but Coll, charged with the practical side of his education, decided on horseshoes. And so it had been horseshoes all morning long. Taran's arms ached, soot blackened his face. At last he dropped the hammer and turned to Coll, who was watching him critically."<br />
<br />
Review: This is the first book in the <i>Chronicles of Prydain</i> and we quickly learn of Taran and his dreams of heroes and adventuring instead of being just a simple Assistant Pig Keeper. What Taran forgets to realize is that heroics is more than slaying dragons and saving damsels in distress. His first realization that it may be less glamorous than expected starts with a bad nights sleep on the ground and quickly becomes a tale of follies and one misadventure after another. But he his nothing if not determined to finish his quest to the end to find Hen Wen, the pig left in his charge.<br />
<br />
Along the way he picks up one interesting companion after another and soon the band of travelers prove invaluable to Taran and all the land of Prydain. (One of which pays a marking resemblance to a certain creepy crawly fellow from the <i>Lord of the Rings </i>series).<br />
<br />
<br />
I was asked to read this book to determine if it was appropriate for a nine or ten year old. Some of the parts are intense, and there is one quick scene where there is mention of men being burned alive inside wicker baskets, but overall it's not too graphic and it avoids going into any great detail about the death that comes with battles. Even the wicker basket scene only got mentioned in half a paragraph or less. As such, this story was definitely written for a younger audience but it was still enjoyable for me. Every good book, according to my husband, starts off with a map. And this book started off with a map so it must be good.<br />
<br />
It only took a few hours to read and it was full of action and adventure from start to finish. Taran may have frustrated me at times but I absolutely loved Eilonwy. She was a bit of comic relief and made Taran so much more bearable while, at the same time, absolutely refusing to be a damsel for Taran to rescue. I can't help but love her for that.<br />
<br />
I did have a hard time getting past the fact that certain aspects felt like they were stolen right from Lord of the Rings then dumbed down a bit for younger kids. For example, a Gollum character, along with some other situations that I'll avoid mentioning in order to keep from spoiling any of the plot. But if you do decide to read the story I'm sure you'll catch them as well. <br />
<br />
The next book in the <i>Chronicles of Prydain </i>series is <i>The Black Cauldron</i>.BrookeJeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14467414526690166373noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4115614661084611174.post-23627456157405635292012-01-04T23:40:00.000-08:002012-10-02T23:03:26.854-07:00Pride and Prejudice<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXViXBVA8Pvu7-0VnQPTZFW0k0TySR9z304WkmoAv9l7UFmD4eAdqkSzE84fWsz_3boOLex7gDWuwZxDBavx6T92Va77izsD3cTWdfVQZCGAaejM8pMTvYzErmidNVRt-5xR4952Ahw_c/s1600/pride_and_prejudice.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXViXBVA8Pvu7-0VnQPTZFW0k0TySR9z304WkmoAv9l7UFmD4eAdqkSzE84fWsz_3boOLex7gDWuwZxDBavx6T92Va77izsD3cTWdfVQZCGAaejM8pMTvYzErmidNVRt-5xR4952Ahw_c/s320/pride_and_prejudice.jpg" width="192" /></a>by Jane Austen<br />
<br />
First Paragraph: "It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife."<br />
<br />
Review: I'd give you a synopsis of the story but I think every person alive - or at least most - has to know what this book is about. It is, after all, one of the greatest love stories ever written. How Austen managed to do this in 1813 and still make her characters relate-able almost 200 years later is remarkable. <br />
<br />
Other than that, I don't think there is much to be said about this book other than, "Why did it take me 26 years to read it?" I get that I had to learn how to read first so the first few years of life are excused. But I remember reading <i>Sense and Sensibility</i> in High School and loving it. I should have known this book would be no different.<br />
<br />
Now, the only thing left to do is go rent the BBC movie again from the library. <br />
<br />BrookeJeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14467414526690166373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4115614661084611174.post-2977276442778837872011-11-10T14:13:00.001-08:002011-11-10T14:33:40.400-08:00The Hunt of the Unicorn<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBd_06s34nWpar8mRmsycUZawIby6BxtBQV6J2LaxLOpVwcDgAK7GiS1qdA_MmpWgoPXUm13NQcpV5ARr9WCnOZeVUn5mGFGDtXHuuYRx4B2bEyHuFhAlogmW1O5N3vRli7i1liVUtgHQ/s1600/the+hunt+of+the+unicorn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBd_06s34nWpar8mRmsycUZawIby6BxtBQV6J2LaxLOpVwcDgAK7GiS1qdA_MmpWgoPXUm13NQcpV5ARr9WCnOZeVUn5mGFGDtXHuuYRx4B2bEyHuFhAlogmW1O5N3vRli7i1liVUtgHQ/s400/the+hunt+of+the+unicorn.jpg" width="262" /></a>by C.C. Humphreys<br />
<br />
Dedication: "To Aletha, Tamer of Unicorns"<br />
<br />
First paragraph: "<i>Thunderstorms rumble nearer, the air charged with static, as sticky-hot as only a New Orleans night can be. Arcana knows that the werewolf is going to come. She prays that all the precautions she's taken are not in vain. Prays that he's brought the goal of her quest--- </i><br />
<br />
'Elayne?'"<i> </i><br />
<br />
Review: Elayne is struggling to come to terms with reality as she watches her father's health steadily decline due to the cancer that plagues his body. Trying to imagine life without him is impossible. So, when her father starts to tell her about their family history, she can't help but be skeptical. Unicorns and Manticores only existed in fairytales and her life was anything but a fairytale. <br />
<br />
Or so she thinks.<br />
<br />
This book was a fun read. The first part of the book was great; I couldn't put it down. Then something happened and it lost that edge and fell into a lull. Luckily, I kept reading because it definitely picks back up and I felt the story rewarded me for persevering until the end.<br />
<br />
Some of the fantastic beasts Humphreys described were beyond my comprehension but it was still a fun story about a land beyond this one. And, in a weird way, it almost makes sense. No wonder we have stories about Unicorns and three-headed-dogs, they used to travel from our world to theirs before the doorways were sealed forever.<br />
<br />
I did get a sense of an agenda at a few points in the book but I'm not against taking care of our planet so it didn't bother me too much.<br />
<br />
My only real complaint is that Mormons don't have multiple wives and I hate it when authors (even jokingly) throw that into their stories. It's probably silly to be so bothered by it but lots of people, more than I could possibly imagine, actually believe it when they read seemingly innocent sentences like the one I found in the story. I'm sure most people wouldn't even notice that sentence or think twice about it but ... it bothered me. <br />
<br />
Other than that small and albeit pretty petty complaint this was a fun book to read and I would highly recommend it to the unicorn lovers or the fantasy readers out there.<br />
<br />
Three stars to <i>The Hunt of the Unicorn.</i><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.cchumphreys.com/Site_2/The_Hunt_of_the_Unicorn.html" target="_blank">Click here for C.C. Humphreys' website for <i>The Hunt of the Unicorn.</i></a>BrookeJeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14467414526690166373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4115614661084611174.post-69805390517047678152011-10-13T09:53:00.000-07:002011-10-13T09:54:47.291-07:00The Ghost's Child<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjujMWZ6JpCXG7A-vaGbgNMPwm2V0AjURJ06XhS9iKYLlwizeU3PjXMsADnRS8VNvvOf3g1ET7a2500OVJMSXcdHc5tuTL35p8ekZKi5N8xsfqJNc75Y9OdHnwHphZgCDaZq0GW93Drxz0/s1600/the+ghosts+child.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjujMWZ6JpCXG7A-vaGbgNMPwm2V0AjURJ06XhS9iKYLlwizeU3PjXMsADnRS8VNvvOf3g1ET7a2500OVJMSXcdHc5tuTL35p8ekZKi5N8xsfqJNc75Y9OdHnwHphZgCDaZq0GW93Drxz0/s320/the+ghosts+child.jpg" width="205" /></a></div>
by Sonya Hartnett<br />
<br />
Dedication: "For Julie Watts"<br />
<br />
First paragraph: "One damp silvery afternoon an old lady came home from walking her dog and found a boy sitting in her lounge room on the floral settee. The boy hadn't been invited, so the old lady was surprised to see him. It wasn't a large boy, and he looked annoyed and bored, as if he had been waiting for her for some time. The lounge room was cold, and the tip of his nose had turned softly pink, which made the old lady feel sorry for him. 'You should have lit the fire,' she said, and pressed a button and twisted a dial, causing flames to jump up like cancan dancers inside the silver chest of the heater. Her guest didn't answer, but looked more aggrieved: being a boy of a certain age, he had a taste for suffering manfully, and preferred not to be given advice. 'Would you like a cup of tea?' she asked him. 'I'm about to make a pot.'"<br />
<br />
Review: <i>An old woman arrives home one day to find a boy waiting on her floral settee. As they visit over tea, she tells the stranger of her life long ago, when she was known as Maddy and longed for a future as enchanting as a fairy tale. In her story, young Maddy falls desperately in love with Feather, a boy "tousled and tameless as a flash of lightning," and they live happily in a little cottage by the sea. But one day Feather doesn't come home, and Maddy must follow him on a fantastical journey across the waves, seeking the answer to a burning question.</i><br />
<br />
I was about 70 pages in and I thought I knew exactly what my review would say: "Boring". But once Maddy quit describing every little thing that she had seen or experienced at different points in her young childhood (and I'm talking pages of things listed one after the other) it got better.<br />
<br />
This still wasn't a fascinating read by any means but there were things that I connected with, the imaginings of a young girl trying to make her life into a fantasy. And that is exactly what Maddy's life was--half fairy tale and half reality.<br />
<br />
I think my favorite part was how difficult it was to discern which parts were her imagination and which parts really happened.<br />
<br />
My only other complaint is the passage of time. There are parts when I could have sworn 4 or 5 years had passed with all the things they were doing and how she described the time passing and then suddenly it's only a year later.<br />
<br />
That sort of things rips me out of the story. It's hard to be immersed in something when you can't get a grasp on how quickly things are unfolding.<br />
<br />
I wouldn't really suggest this book to anyone. If you happened to be bored and grabbed it at the library because the book cover looked interesting, then you might as well give it a shot but ...I've read much better.<br />
<br />
Oh, also. I think the title is sort of a huge spoiler alert - which I don't find to be a good thing. Or maybe I'm just brilliant and no one else will figure it out.BrookeJeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14467414526690166373noreply@blogger.com1