Summers At The Saint by Mary Kay Andrews

 

My thoughts

I can't believe this is the first Mary Kay Andrews book I have read. I've seen several and even own two besides this one yet have not read her until now.

I started this book and fell in love with it's beauty. The beauty of the words and people. The way the words flowed so effortlessly through the pages. It's a long book but a quick read. I didn't want to put it down and didn't except to do things that absolutely had to be done. It swept me away to a beach resort in Georgia. This was a fun read but also had a mystery/thrill going on. A few things that had to be brought to justice. 

This story contains a murder. A past rape. An illegitimate child. A secret that spanned quite a few years and that NO ONE knew except the two involved and their lawyers. Until one snooping, nosey, hateful, woman found out and caused so much to happen. There's a fire. Theft. So much and still it's a light hearted story that keeps you wanting more. 

This author did such a good job of pulling everything together. Even a love interest or two thrown in for good measure. This resort sounds like a great place to vacation. Until things go bad. Then you might need to run. There are two young ladies who may be able to help. They are pretty good at solving a mystery when they are trying to survive. 

Most all of the characters in this story are so likable. They made it so easy to love this setting and area. To let go of the bad characters enough to keep reading and hoping they would be caught and brought to justice. Yes this is a wonderful book. This author knows how to weave a story and through in a few knots along the way.

Thank you #NetGalley, #MaryKayAndrews, #StMartinsPress, for this ARC. This is my own true thoughts about this book.

Five big stars and a very high recommendation.

About

Welcome to the St. Cecelia, a landmark hotel on the coast of Georgia, where traditions run deep and scandals run even deeper. . . .

Everyone refers to the St. Cecelia as “the Saint.” If you grew up coming here, you were “a Saint.” If you came from the wrong side of the river, you were “an Ain’t.” Traci Eddings was one of those outsiders whose family wasn’t rich enough or connected enough to vacation here. But she could work here. One fateful summer she did, and married the boss’s son. Now, she’s the widowed owner of the hotel, determined to see it return to its glory days, even as staff shortages and financial troubles threaten to ruin it. Plus, her greedy and unscrupulous brother-in-law wants to make sure she fails. Enlisting a motley crew of recently hired summer help—including the daughter of her estranged best friend—Traci has one summer season to turn it around. But new information about a long-ago drowning at the hotel threatens to come to light, and the tragic death of one of their own brings Traci to the brink of despair.

Traci Eddings has her back against the pink-painted wall of this beloved institution. And it will take all the wits and guts she has to see wrongs put to right, to see guilty parties put in their place, and maybe even to find a new romance along the way. Told with Mary Kay Andrew’s warmth, humor, knack for twists, and eye for delicious detail about human nature, Summers at the Saint is a beach read with depth and heart.

The Underground Library by Jennifer Ryan

 

My thoughts

I can't believe this is my first book by this author. It was excellent. Very well written and researched. Based on a true story. One that I had no idea existed. To move a library underground was such a great thing to do. It helped people who did not have access to it before. And there is the fact that it was bombed and needed to be moved....

You meet three young women in this story and each tells their story. Their hopes and fears. The ways they coped. How these three became the best of friends during a very dark time in the world's history. Sofie, Rachel, and Juliet all met in Bethnal Green. In the library. 

Juliet was the Deputy Librarian. She got the job because there was no man to take it. The war had called most me to battle. She had many grand ideas, many of which the head librarian shot down. A man of course. He wanted things to be as easy as possible for himself. But Juliet would not let that stop her. She aimed higher and made it the best library they could possibly have. 

Sofie who fled her home for a safer place. She was working for a hard mean man. She worked very hard for him despite all of his abuse and meanness. The best thing that happened to her was when he sent her to the library for a map. There she met Juliet. Juliet was going to help her in ways she could not have guessed. 

Katie was a young girl who's fiancé was sent to war and went missing. Maybe killed. She is pregnant and scared. Barely out of school and terrified of how her family will react. She hides the pregnancy for as long as possible. When her mother finally finds out Katie knows things will be so bad for her. She's brought such a shame to the family. When she meets Juliet her life is changed also. So much will happen for her.

This book has a few secondary characters that I loved also. One of my favorites being Sebastian. He sounds like the almost perfect man. I was very leery of Victor. I just didn't trust him. The Miss Ridleys were wonderful as was Marigold. I didn't like Ernest Wainwright either. 

This is a story of friends during a horrible time. A time when Jews were singled out and deemed less than human. When Hitler decided that they needed to be gotten rid of. During a time of book banning and burning. A time when anyone with a sickness was consider less and needed to be put away. A very dark time for the whole world. I certainly hope it never happens again. But never think it can't...

Thank you #NetGalley, #JenniferRyan, #RandomHousePublishing, #Ballantinebooks, for this ARC. This is my true thoughts about this book.

FIVE huge stars and one of the best I've read this year. 

About

When new deputy librarian, Juliet Lansdown, finds that Bethnal Green Library isn't the bustling hub she's expecting, she becomes determined to breathe life back into it. But can she show the men in charge that a woman is up to the task of running it, especially when a confrontation with her past threatens to derail her?

Katie Upwood is thrilled to be working at the library, although she's only there until she heads off to university in the fall. But after the death of her beau on the front line and amid tumultuous family strife, she finds herself harboring a life-changing secret with no one to turn to for help.

Sofie Baumann, a young Jewish refugee, came to London on a domestic service visa only to find herself working as a maid for a man who treats her abominably. She escapes to the library every chance she can, finding friendship in the literary community and aid in finding her sister, who is still trying to flee occupied Europe.

When a slew of bombs destroy the library, Juliet relocates the stacks to the local Underground station where the city's residents shelter nightly, determined to lend out stories that will keep spirits up. But tragedy after tragedy threatens to unmoor the women and sever the ties of their community. Will Juliet, Kate, and Sofie be able to overcome their own troubles to save the library? Or will the beating heart of their neighborhood be lost forever?

Mailbox Monday

Mailbox Monday is the gathering place for readers to share the books that came into their house last week

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Warning:  Mailbox Monday can lead to envy, toppling TBR piles, and humongous wish lists.

Mailbox Monday, created by Marcia @A Girl and Her Books, has a permanent home now at  MAILBOX MONDAY.

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Here is a shout out to the administrators

Serena @ Savvy Verse and Wit

Martha @ Reviews By Martha’s Bookshelf

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THANKS to everyone for keeping Mailbox Monday alive.

NetGalley's this week

We Burn Daylight by Bret Anthony Johnston

An epic novel of star-crossed lovers set in a doomsday cult on the Texas prairie that asks: What would you sacrifice for the person you love?

Waco, Texas, 1993. People from all walks of life have arrived to follow the Lamb’s gospel—signing over savings and pensions, selling their homes and shedding marriages. They’ve come here to worship at the feet of a former landscaper turned prophet who is preparing for the End Times with a staggering cache of weapons. Jaye’s mother is one of his newest and most devout followers, though Jaye herself has suspicions about the Lamb’s methods—and his motives.

Roy is the youngest son of the local sheriff, a fourteen-year-old boy with a heart of gold and a nose for trouble who falls for Jaye without knowing of her mother’s attachment to the man who is currently making his father’s life hell. The two teenagers are drawn to each other immediately and completely, but their love may have dire consequences for their families. The Lamb has plans for them all—especially Jaye—and as his preaching and scheming move them closer and closer to unthinkable violence, Roy risks everything to save Jaye.

Based on the true events that unfolded thirty years ago during the siege of the Branch Davidian compound, Bret Anthony Johnston’s We Burn Daylight is an unforgettable love story, a heart-pounding literary page turner, and a profound exploration of faith, family, and what it means to truly be saved.

By Any Other Name by Jodi Picoult

Two women, centuries apart—one of whom is the real author of Shakespeare’s plays—are both forced to hide behind another name to make their voices heard.

In 1581, Emilia Bassano—like most young women of her day—is allowed no voice of her own. But as the Lord Chamberlain’s mistress, she has access to all theater in England, and finds a way to bring her work to the stage secretly. And yet, creating some of the world’s greatest dramatic masterpieces comes at great cost: by paying a man for the use of his name, she will write her own out of history.

In the present, playwright Melina Green has just written a new work inspired by the life of her Elizabethan ancestor Emilia Bassano. Although the challenges are different four hundred years later, the playing field is still not level for women in theater. Would Melina—like Emilia—be willing to forfeit her credit as author, just for a chance to see her work performed?

Told in intertwining narratives, this sweeping tale of ambition, courage, and desire asks what price each woman is willing to pay to see their work live on—even if it means they will be forgotten.

Leaning On Air-audio by Cheryl Grey 

They last spoke as teens, but on a country road twelve years later, a surprise encounter reunites ornithologist Celia Burke with veterinary surgeon Burnaby Hayes, and they plunge into the most unusual romance of her life.

After a decade of marriage, Celia and Burnaby have found a unique and beautiful rhythm. Then tragedy strikes while Celia hunts for the nest of a research hawk near the Snake River. Reeling with grief, she’s certain Burnaby won’t understand her anguish or forgive the choice that initiated it.

She flees to kindness at a remote farm in Washington’s Palouse region, where a wild prairie and an alluring neighbor convince her to begin anew. But when unexplained accidents, cryptic sketches, and a mute little boy make her doubt her decision, only a red-tailed hawk and the endangered lives of those she loves can compel her to examine her past—and reconsider her future.

A Court of Frost and Starlight by Sarah J. Maas

 

My thoughts

This is the fourth book in this series and I think it was nice to read about these characters. To get to know a bit more about them and what they felt after the war. 

I enjoyed this one and felt it was a good place for the author to do this shorter book. It's told from different character's prospective. It gives you some insight into their thoughts and feelings. You get more of Rhys and Feyre also. Their visit to the cabin was a bit racy if you will but that is what they do. I think they are great characters. All of the characters in this book are likable. 

I got a bit tired of Nesta's attitude but she was put through a lot. Dragged from her home and turned high fae was not her ideal way to live out the rest of her life but at least she is with her sisters. Forever. I suppose that is enough to put a damper on anyone's life. Hopefully she will come around in the next book. We'll see. 

You'll hear about Cassian, Morrigan, Feyre, Rhysand and a short section about Nesta. Each of these characters play a vital role in this story and in this series. 

This was a fun read for me. I can't wait to start the next and possibly last book. 

This author's writing is so good. In places some things are said a bit much but it's ok. These books are so long and need to be filled with enough imagination to keep you turning the pages. I'm really loving them. 

About

A tender addition to the #1 New York Times bestselling Court of Thorns and Roses series by Sarah J. Maas, bridging the events of A Court of Wings and Ruin and upcoming books.

Feyre, Rhysand, and their friends are still busy rebuilding the Night Court and the vastly altered world beyond, recovering from the war that changed everything. But Winter Solstice is finally approaching, and with it, the joy of a hard-earned reprieve.

Yet even the festive atmosphere can't keep the shadows of the past from looming. As Feyre navigates her first Winter Solstice as High Lady, her concern for those dearest to her deepens. They have more wounds than she anticipated-scars that will have a far-reaching impact on the future of their court.

Bridging the events of A Court of Wings and Ruin with the later books in the series, A Court of Frost and Starlight explores the far-reaching effects of a devastating war and the fierce love between friends.

Blackbird(Hart's Ridge #9) by Kay Bratt

 

My thoughts

Each Hart's Ridge book is better than the last. They are all wonderful and touching and sad. All have many feels going on. This one was just the best. 

Ms. Bratt captured my heart with the two women in this book. The two that were at the mercy of brutal men. Especially the one being held in the basement. Good grief what that poor woman is going through and she needs to be found. Get her away from that horrible man. 

Two women.

 Allison who is a mother to two beautiful children a baby boy and a toddler girl, is running for her life after the man who is suppose to love her beats her. He's an abusive jerk. She has to get her babies away from there. Herself away. She deserves so much better. I utterly HATED her mother. Allison's mother. She is a first rate hussy. A horrible excuse of a mother.

Lydia is a mother also. She has two teenage daughters and a baby girl. She was carjacked in a Walmart parking lot. So much has happened to her now. Her husband refuses to accept that she is dead. He can't feel her and knows that he would. Lydia's capture is another horrible man. He's worse than the one that Allison is running from. He has no feelings toward her. Feels no remorse at all. He is a psychopath. He thinks of himself as a survivalist though. 

This book will keep you turning the pages and will give you so many tears. It's filled with so many emotions and ups and downs. You will feel like you are right there with these women. And you get to know a little more about the Grays. The determination of Deputy Taylor Gray. Her allegiance to her fellow cops. Or in this case cop. As they travel in search of a missing wife and mother. As she helps out Allison and her children. As she does with her sisters and mother. Taylor is the rock they all seem to rely on.

This is a solid FIVE start book even if I did get upset over the ending and not knowing.... 

Thank you Kay Bratt for this copy of book 9 of the Hart's Ridge series. It was so good.

About

In the small town of Hart's Ridge, a recent tragedy leaves the tight-knit community still reeling. In the highly anticipated ninth installment of the Hart's Ridge small-town mystery series, "Blackbird," Deputy Taylor Gray finds herself supporting a colleague through a painful journey of letting go.Meanwhile, a young woman and her children must flee from her abusive ex-partner, seeking refuge and safety. Deputy Gray becomes entangled in their plight, blurring the lines between duty and personal conviction."Blackbird" masterfully intertwines these dual plot lines, exploring the complexities of small-town life and the resilience of its residents. Brace yourself for an exhilarating journey to the heart of Hart's Ridge—a ride that promises to captivate readers until the final, unforgettable page.

A Court of Wings and Ruin by Sarah J. Maas

 

My thoughts

I'm really enjoying this series so much. This is the third book and it's even better than the last one. I never thought I would enjoy this genre of book before but oh my I do. There is everything in them. Laughter, cringes, excitement, light horror, thrills, chills, and tears. 

This book takes on another ride with the Faes. You get get to know a bit more about each character. More about their lives, fears, and loves. More about their strengths and weaknesses. More about their truths. 

Some of these characters grew on me a bit. Elaine comes out of her shell a tiny bit. She certainly has a lot going on but she's likable in many ways. Nesta is still stronger but you'll see a different side to her also. Feyre is still herself but in many ways she has grown also. She learned a lot about doing things that she wants to without needing to ask first. I like these sisters and hope each will continue to grow. As for Rhysand.. I still love him. He's the one that I hoped from the start that Feyre would be with. He's a kind and caring Fae and very strong also. He puts his friends and family first and foremost whether in battle or just being protected in everyday life.

You'll also see a different side of Tamlin and Lucien. Whether you like this side or not remains to be seen. I have high hopes for both but especially Lucien. I can't say why just yet.

This author has such a good imagination. Her writing style is great. She pulls you in and keeps you turning the pages. There is so much going on yet it's so easy to follow. I throughly enjoyed this book and the previous two. I highly recommend giving them a try. This one is 703 pages of excitement and intrigue. It takes you into a big battle between different regions and even the humans. It's exciting and gripping and keeps you on your toes all the way. I loved it.

About

The epic third novel in the #1 New York Times bestselling Court of Thorns and Roses series by Sarah J. Maas.

Feyre has returned to the Spring Court, determined to gather information on Tamlin's actions and learn what she can about the invading king threatening to bring her land to its knees. But to do so she must play a deadly game of deceit. One slip could bring doom not only for Feyre, but for everything-and everyone-she holds dear.

As war bears down upon them all, Feyre endeavors to take her place amongst the High Fae of the land, balancing her struggle to master her powers-both magical and political-and her love for her court and family. Amidst these struggles, Feyre and Rhysand must decide whom to trust amongst the cunning and lethal High Lords, and hunt for allies in unexpected places.

In this thrilling third book in the #1 New York Times bestselling series from Sarah J. Maas, the fate of Feyre's world is at stake as armies grapple for power over the one thing that could destroy it.

A Heart Like Home by Christine Nolfi

 

My thoughts

Way to go Christine. All of your books are wonderful but this is the best one yet. It's not just an emotional story it also has some chuckles added in along the way. While it did make me weep bit ugly tears there was also parts that made me laugh out loud. This book will be in my top twenty for the year for sure.

This book will pull at your heartstrings in ways no other will. It's the story of a brother and sister. The life they lived and the life they are finally given. A kind of rags to riches kind of story only it's rags of emotion to riches of love. These two children, Henry and Bella, are taken from their dad after a neighbor calls the police. Their mother had died and their dad left them alone on weekends so he could go out drinking and picking up women. They lived in squalor and near starvation. All of that is about to change. These two beautiful children will find out what it's like to be loved unconditionally and fearlessly. 

No child should ever experience what Henry and Bella did. Children should be treasured. In a perfect world they would be. How any parent can hurt or abuse their own little child is beyond me. They give us total and complete love. Until you strip that away from them. Even then if you show them kindness they will forgive you and try again. 

These two children are so worthy of a good life and deep love. With Nova they will experience what it's like to be accepted. Fed well. Dressed in good clothes and sent to school. A life spent enjoying themselves instead of worrying about what will happen to them next. 

Henry is a very rebellious young boy. He's nine years old and already endured more than he should. He has a tendency to berate and belittle females. He hasn't a lot of respect for them. He learned that lesson from his dad. 

Bella is a bundle of love. She's open to being loved and loves back. She's still young enough at seven to believe in magic. She's an outgoing child and keeps you on your toes. She will make you laugh many times while reading this book.

This is a heartbreaking story that will ultimately mend you back together. As do all of this author's books. I loved most all of the characters in this book. I felt the beauty of all the flowers and bushes and trees described in this story. I felt the magic of Bella's photograph. The fears of what all Henry went through. I did not like Egan. He was a very trouble man.

Thank you #NetGalley, #ChristineNolfi, #LakeUnion, for this ARC. This is my own true thoughts about this book.

FIVE huge stars and the highest recommendation. Grab this and a few boxes of Kleenex. 

About

Finding family is a journey of love, risk, secrets, and healing in a powerful novel by the bestselling author of A Brighter Flame, The Passing Storm, and The Road She Left Behind.

When Nova Doubeck is asked to foster two children, she can’t say no. With her own childhood wounds healed by adoptive parents, Nova understands the rewards of a caring guardian—even an impermanent one. But nine-year-old Henry and his seven-year-old sister, Bella, are more than Nova bargained for.

Combative Henry is at risk of becoming like his abusive father, Egan Croy. Timid Bella, clutching a tin box of treasures, cowers at the slightest noise. Yet Nova gradually earns their trust and affection as they bring unexpected love and joy to her guarded life. Now she can’t help but How will she stop her heart from breaking when the time comes to say goodbye?

As Egan aggressively battles to regain control over the children, Nova’s protective instincts prove just as fierce. In fighting to save Henry and Bella, she’ll unlock the secrets hidden in their past—and learn more about herself and the true meaning of family than anyone imagined.