The lifestyles we lead are frequently reflected in romantic novels. We could even get something from it. It's possible that one of the readers recently experienced a disastrous breakup with a nasty guy. The reader may find comfort in reading about a character who faces a similar problem. We will either be clapping or criticizing the characters throughout a fantastic romance novel. And with that, here are a few romance novels that will be published in December 2022.

1. Well Traveled (Well Met #4) by Jen DeLuca

The latest completely endearing rom-com from Jen DeLuca features Lulu and Dex traveling with the Renaissance Faire. Well Traveled is a charming, kind, and romantic return to the Renaissance Faire that is full of the exquisite details that DeLuca provides in each and every fantastic book. It was a heartfelt tale about finding your own way by listening to your inner music. DeLuca's newest offers readers more of what they love about her famous series, which features especially well-developed characters, among the unusual location and a supply of colorful supporting characters, both old and new. This book is scheduled to be released by Berkley on December 6th, 2022.

2. A Dash of Salt and Pepper by Kosoko Jackson

In this swoon-worthy romantic comedy from the creator of I'm So (Not) Over You, sometimes having two cooks in the kitchen is better than having one. Logan and Xavier uncover an unanticipated connection while trapped between a stove and a heated area. They will have to determine if they can make their relationship work or if life has seasoned them too differently as the heat between them threatens to reach the highest point on the Scoville scale. This book is scheduled to be released by Berkley Books on December 6th, 2022.

3. The Key to My Heart by Lia Louis

The "must-buy author" of Eight Perfect Hours has written a beautiful book about optimism after loss in which a young widow gets enigmatic messages of affection. A moving, inspirational book that is filled with Lia Louis' characteristic charm and humor. Natalie's narrative will touch your heart and put a smile on your face long after you flip the last page. It is a touching study of love, sorrow, and learning to let go. This book is anticipated to be published on December 6th, 2022 by Atria/Emily Bestler Books.

4. In It to Win It by Sharon C. Cooper

In this romantic comedy about second chances by USA Today bestselling author Sharon C. Cooper, two businessmen battle for a property but end up winning the biggest prize of all—each other. It's simple to root for Morgan and Drake because of their undeniable chemistry, emotional kinship, and inspiring personal development. It will attract readers. This book is anticipated to be published by Berkley on December 13th, 2022.

5. Queen of Myth and Monsters (Adrian X Isolde #2) by Scarlett St. Clair

The following volume in USA Today bestselling author Scarlett St. Clair's epic fantasy series. Isolde, the recently crowned queen, has at last discovered a king deserving of her in vampire Adrian. But Isolde's father and her house have been lost because of their love for one another. This book is anticipated to be released by Sourcebooks on December 27th, 2022.

Reading a thriller narrative piques the reader's interest since they appreciate the action and enjoy delving into the character motivations and psychological makeup. The majority of mystery readers are just as curious about the how and why of a crime as they are about the perpetrator. These are a few of the thriller/mystery books coming out in December 2022. 

1. The Widowmaker by Hannah Morrissey

Hannah Morrisey's place as one of the most promising emerging talents in crime fiction is confirmed with The Widowmaker. Two wounded individuals striving to do the right thing in a world full of evil are unflinchingly examined in this poem's razor-sharp writing and attention to detail. With characters that come to life off the page, creep inside you, and adhere to your bones, it is impossible to put down and even harder to stop thinking about. This book is scheduled to be released by Minotaur Books on December 6th, 2022.

2. My Darkest Prayer by S.A. Cosby

New York Times bestselling novelist and multiple award winner S. A. Cosby's  My Darkest Prayer, first book, has been reissued in a new version with a fresh introduction from the author. Mr. Cosby bursts into the door of the crime fiction arena shoulder first, shattering it open as he does so and making a loud crash as he does so. A fantastic and tense example of post-modern crime noir, with lots of action. S. A. Crosby has produced a dark hero that is equal parts Travis Magee and Jack Reacher. This book is scheduled to be released by Flatiron Books on December 6th, 2022.

3. A History of Fear by Luke Dumas

A History of Fear combines a terrifying atmosphere with heart-pounding storytelling to propel the reader into the depths of the human psyche. An unsettling literary suspense novel follows the torturous fall of a troubled doctoral student known as the Devil's Advocate for his notorious deed of killing a classmate and blaming the Devil for it. This book is scheduled to be released by Atria Books on December 6th, 2022.

4. All the Dark Places by Terri Parlato

A murder reveals the murky secrets at the heart of a group of friends in this gritty new thriller, which is ideal for Megan Miranda and Shari Lapena readers. Two women - one with a harrowing history and the other a Boston police investigator - are sent on a quest for the truth. This book is anticipated to be published on December 27th, 2022, by Kensington Publishing.

5. A Small Affair by Flora Collins

A profoundly emotional psychological roller coaster with mounting tension that eventually comes to a raw, crashing end. When a young woman's affluent ex-boyfriend and his wife are discovered dead, their lives are shattered. This book is anticipated to be published by MIRA on December 27th, 2022.

"The trouble was, though, that once the floodgates had opened, there was no way of controlling the flow of memories that were being released.”

--Katie Matthews, I Remember, Daddy

This is Katie's journey of coming to grips with memories that are too painful to recall but that are also difficult to forget; it is at times terrifying but ultimately inspirational.

Synopsis from Goodreads...

Katie's memories of her childhood were patchy. She'd always remembered her father's physical abuse, his anger and violence. But there was a lot she had forgotten. And, at the age of 24, after the birth of her son, the memories that were gradually unlocked with the help of a psychiatrist were far more terrible.

Katie had grown up living in fear. She'd never forgotten the icy coldness that used to spread through every vein in her body each time her father grabbed her roughly by the arm, or punched and kicked her mother. Or the occasion when she was 3 and he'd locked her in a bedroom for an entire weekend, without food or water. Or the night when he'd brought home a young woman he'd met at a bar, pushing her mother down the stairs when she dared to complain and then locking mother and daughter out in the snow, dressed only in their nightdresses.

There were many, many incidents of violence and cruelty that Katie had never forgotten. But when she started a family of her own, and began to see a psychiatrist to help her cope with the debilitating post-natal depression she was suffering, she was forced to recall memories that were even more horrifying. Memories of the sexual abuse her father had subjected her to from the age of 3, which her mind had locked away for over twenty years. And memories of all the other horrific incidents from her childhood that she'd dared not remember until then.

During the months that Katie remained in the psychiatric hospital, the locked doors in her mind gradually opened, releasing the trauma from her past and finally enabling her to start to understand the reason for her self-disgust.

My reaction to this novel...

I was shocked while reading the book. It's really difficult for me to comprehend how a father could do such a horrible thing. It is advised to avoid reading this book if you are uncomfortable with the subject matter because it is highly sensitive. Though, it makes you aware that some individuals do in fact go through this. I was horrified by what had occurred to her. Justice must prevail. Her father should suffer and be held accountable for all of his misdeeds.

It is anticipated that, like other traumatized individuals, they may eventually develop postnatal depression. She is fortunate to have her husband's constant support at this point. This allowed her to quickly begin seeing a doctor for counseling. It's been quite hard to bring up thoughts of her awful past. I found it tough to read as a result. Simply put, it was evil and awful. Her father came off as a disgusting creature. As she described what had happened, he grinned and laughed at her at the same time. What a heinous thing to do.

I have a lot of horrible feelings about her father. I find it hard to imagine a father raping his daughter and then letting his friends to rape her. It was frightening. Because she made it through it all, Katie is a strong woman. Even though she first experienced a mental breakdown, I'm pleased of who she has become. Aside from that, she has gained strength, and I have no doubts she will be a wonderful mother. Furthermore, I think she will treat her spouse well and is capable of doing so.

Up until this point, I couldn't believe it had truly occurred. However, I'm delighted to know her story as a reader. It will surely break your heart several times, thus I will strongly advise it to any bookreaders who are not  faint at heart.

My Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨(4.5/5)

“When you are in a relationship, you are aware that it might end. You might grow apart, find someone else, simply fall out of love. But a friendship isn't a zero-sum game, and as such, you assume that it will last forever, especially an old friendship. You take its permanence for granted, whuch might be the very thing so dear about it.”

― Emily Giffin, Something Borrowed

The book Something Borrowed was written by Emily Giffin in 2005. The morality of friendships and relationships is a theme throughout the book. It discusses the pressure society puts on unmarried women in their 30s to be married as well as the discrimination against them. Something Borrowed was listed among other places on The New York Times Best Seller List and went on to become a worldwide success. The collaborative production company of Hilary Swank turned it into a movie. It's impossible not to smile, cry, and call your best friend while reading the outstanding debut novel Something Borrowed.

Synopsis from Goodreads...

Something Borrowed tells the story of Rachel, a young attorney living and working in Manhattan.

Rachel has always been the consummate good girl—until her thirtieth birthday, when her best friend, Darcy, throws her a party. That night, after too many drinks, Rachel ends up in bed with Darcy's fiancé. Although she wakes up determined to put the one-night fling behind her, Rachel is horrified to discover that she has genuine feelings for the one guy she should run from. As the September wedding date nears, Rachel knows she has to make a choice. In doing so, she discovers that the lines between right and wrong can be blurry, endings aren't always neat, and sometimes you have to risk all to win true happiness.

My reaction to this  novel...

This is the first novel I've read by Emily Giffin. Though I'd had this novel on my shelf for a long time, I just recently had the opportunity to read it while seeking for something to read under romance category. Actually, I really liked how the author wrote this book. She employed clear, engaging words that allowed readers to readily comprehend and become involved in the story. That is exactly how I felt. The moment I started the first chapter, it was like there was magic in it, which is why I couldn't stop myself from reading.

Though I appreciated the author's writing style, there are several issues and scenarios in the book that I cannot stomach. The first is just how obnoxious Rachel is. I dislike her self-pitying attitude, yet she sees herself as a saint for sacrificing many of her desires for her best friend. It was extremely aggravating, especially since she kept blaming Darcy, her best friend, for how she ended up the way she did. She seems to have two-faced personality, which I find to be quite undesirable in other people. Her and Darcy's mindsets are similar in my opinion. They both are unbearable.

This narrative strikes me as ethically repugnant. I grew increasingly frustrated with Rachel's decisions throughout the course of the story. I felt as though my heart was about to shatter because I could not believe that someone would do what she did behind her closest friend's back. If this were a case between me and my best friend, there would be no ethical dilemma because I completely disagree with Rachel's choice, even if that closest friend is as unpleasant as Darcy. There's a reason why they're called best friends. It indicates they are the finest of all your friends, therefore why does she think and act in that way toward her best friend? It is completely ridiculous. 

I found Darcy to be unlikable, but I couldn't want Rachel and Dex to be together. Although I was able to get a rough guess at the scenario in the midst of the chapter, I don't like the situation that Darcy revealed either. I'll say it again: I can't stand either of the female characters; I hate them both but I still intend to read the following book in this series. I believe it has to do with Darcy's point of view. She has a lot of room to develop as a person, therefore it may be great.

I suppose this is one of those novels that some readers will adore and others will detest completely. With romance novels, isn't that how it always is? If you prefer romantic novels but not the sort of a mind-blowing-over-the-edge story, you might appreciate this one. I enjoy the wording and the way the author helps the reader experience the scenarios, but the character's demeanor doesn't appeal to me. To those who have not yet read this book, I will still give it my highest recommendation. Despite how I felt, I still can't wait to read the second book.

My Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐✨(3.5/5)

“But I have learned that you make your own happiness, that part of going for what you want means losing something else. And when the stakes are high, the losses can be that much greater.”

We actually do get to decide what makes us happy. It's also true that the risks increase in proportion to how badly we desire something. Because that is where our future rests, we must learn to consider all of our possibilities and act rationally before determining what we actually want, the one we choose to possess. Because there is no turning back when we chose the things we thought we wanted and then learn they are not the ones we truly desire.

“When you’re in love, sometimes you have to swallow your pride, and sometimes you have to keep your pride. It’s a balance. But when the relationship is right, you find the balance.”

Most of us have heard the adage that says we shouldn't allow pride serve as the focal point of our relationship with someone we love. Yes, but why should that be the case? Is it not a wonderful feeling to assume that we don't need to consider pride and pain since love should have a reasonable balance? There is no judgment; only love. A balance between everything. That, in my opinion, is its core. That if you love someone, you must learn to balance your emotions toward them so that, even in the absence of assurances or pledges, your love will always bring about a balance between your sentiments. 

“This is why you should never, ever get your hopes up. This is why you should see the glass as half empty. So when the whole thing spills, you aren’t as devastated.”

In actuality, anticipation has a significant role in our suffering, particularly when it involves someone we care about. If that expectation is not fulfilled or is not meant to be fulfilled for you, it hurts so much. But, as humans, we do anticipate things, and because we expect, we also choose to be hurt and feel the pain. So, if we choose to expect, we need also be prepared to be hurt and feel the pain that comes with it.

Friends frequently ponder the value of fiction reading. Such a question makes us uncomfortable. We affirm that reading fiction is something we like doing. However, we also pick up a lot of knowledge about how to live our lives in ways that can only be shown in fiction. For people who enjoy fiction novels, here is a list of books that will be released by December 2022 within the fiction genre.

1. The Vibrant Years by Sonali Dev

A touching tale about three generations of funny, outspoken, and ambitious women who set out on a joint journey of self-discovery is the latest work by USA Today bestselling author Sonali Dev. Come along with the Desai ladies as they unite to embrace the mischief and heartache of confronting their deepest fears in order to live their most vivid lives. This book is anticipated to be published on December 1st, 2022 by Mindy's Book Studio.

2. Stella Maris (The Passenger #2) by Cormac McCarthy

The second book in The Passenger series by the best-selling, Pulitzer Prize–winning author of The Road, Stella Maris, is an intimate depiction of pain and longing as a young lady in a mental institution tries to make sense of her own existence. The Passenger is a philosophical exploration that challenges our conceptions of God, truth, and existence. Stella Maris is a deep, rigorous, and intellectually demanding conclusion to that work. This book is anticipated to be released on December 6th, 2022 by Knopf Publishing Group.

3. No One Left to Come Looking for You by Sam Lipsyte

A darkly humorous thriller from the author of Hark and The Ask set in New York City's thriving music scene in the early 1990s. No One Left to Come Looking for You is a suspenseful page-turner that also acts as an ode to the days of old New York City, when budding artists could still afford to pursue their goals. This book is anticipated to be published on December 6th, 2022, by Simon Schuster.

4. Roses, in the Mouth of a Lion by Bushra Rehman

Bushra Rehman's Roses, in the Mouth of a Lion is a fascinating tale of female friendship and queer love in a Muslim-American society for readers of On Earth We're Briefly Gorgeous and My Brilliant Friend. Roses, in the Mouth of a Lion is a new classic: a passionately sympathetic coming-of-age tale of a girl attempting to reconcile her ancestry and religion with her desire to be true to herself. It is punctuated by both pleasure and tragedy, full of '80s music and treasured books. This book is scheduled to be released by Flatiron Books on December 6th, 2022.

5. The Light Pirate by Lily Brooks-Dalton

The Light Pirate's four distinct sections—power, water, light, and time—mirror the cycles of the elements and the sometimes rapid, sometimes gradual collapse of our familiar world. It is a reflection on the changes we'd rather ignore, the future we'd rather avoid, and a reminder of the beauty and ferocity of a wild place. This book is anticipated to be published on December 6th, 2022, by Grand Central Publishing.

We are introduced to a world of information and wisdom through books. Do we really need a further justification to treat ourselves to a new book this week? These are the day's most talked-about new releases. These outstanding books are all now available! What book stands out to you?

1. Aesthetica by Allie Rowbottom

Aesthetica is a Veronica for the "Instagram face" age. It is energizing, dark, and emotional. It confronts our society's addiction to followers, filters, and manufactured realities while offering a new, nuanced look at feminism, #metoo, and mother-daughter relationships. A former influencer faces her history in her debut book, which is both dazzling and acerbic. She also makes a list of the harms caused by the superficial glitter of social media. If you enjoy debut books, contemporary fiction, social commentary, recovering Instagram influencers, and the pernicious effects of social media, you should read this book.

2. Great Short Books: A Year of Reading—Briefly by Kenneth C. Davis

This varied collection is a pleasant and useful book for any dedicated reader seeking to expand their library—or anybody who wishes to find an enjoyable and uncomplicated comeback into reading—just like shopping in your favorite bookshop. A famous historian, novelist, and ardent reader offers this charming and engaging introduction to some of the greatest short novels ever written. If you enjoy literary guides, hand-picked lists of the best short stories throughout history, quick reads, and the modern attention span, you should read this book.

3. Hunting Time (Colter Shaw #4) by Jeffery Deaver

A new and exciting thriller from the New York Times bestselling master of suspense follows prize hunter Colter Shaw as he races against time in a case where nothing is as it appears. If you enjoy thrillers, mysteries, seasoned writers of commercial fiction, crafty ladies on the run, evil guys on the hunt, brave fixers in the midst, and Jeffery Deaver books, you should read this book.

4. All The Blood We Share by Camilla Bruce

A dark thriller based on the true story of the Bloody Benders, a clan of Western serial killers who were linked by butchery and shrouded in the mists of American history. If you enjoy horrifying historical fiction, chilling books inspired by Old West serial murderers who actually killed people, deadly innkeepers, and shady psychic remedies, you should read this book.

5. The Choice (The Dragon Heart Legacy #3) by Nora Roberts

The epic trilogy's finale, written by The Awakening and The Becoming's No. 1 New York Times bestselling author. If you enjoy dragons, dark gods, evil witches, beautiful heroines, epic journeys, and The Dragon Heart Legacy series, you should read this book.

What newly published books are you most interested in reading? Comment below and let's explore more about books.

“Was it love when somebody filled a space in your life that yawned inside you, once they had gone?”

― J.K. Rowling, The Casual Vacancy

In 2012, J.K. Rowling published the book The Casual Vacancy. On September 27, 2012, the Little Brown Book Group released the book on a global scale. On July 23, 2013, a paperback version was made available. It was Rowling's first work after the Harry Potter books, her first after those books, and her first book intended for adult audiences. Class, politics, and social concerns including rape, prostitution, and drug use are among the book's major topics. The book had the second-best opening week for an adult novel in the UK since Dan Brown's The Lost Symbol and the quickest sales in the country in three years. Within a week of publication, it surpassed the top 15 best-selling books of 2012.

Synopsis from Wikipedia... 

The novel is set in a suburban West Country town called Pagford and begins with the death of beloved Parish Councillor Barry Fairbrother. Subsequently, a seat on the council is vacant and a conflict ensues before the election for his successor takes place. Factions develop, particularly concerning whether to dissociate with a local council estate, ‘the Fields’, with which Barry supported an alliance. However, those running for a place soon find their darkest secrets revealed on the Parish Council online forum, ruining their campaign and leaving the election in turmoil.

My reaction to this novel...

Like many others, I became a fan of J.K. Rowling's writing due to the Harry Potter series. I was pushed to read more books because of that series, and I really like it. The Casual Vacancy initially caught my attention since I am familiar with the author. Rowling wrote this book, which Little Brown Book Group published and disseminated across the world. It was J.K.'s first book written with adults in mind.

This book is notably different from Rowling's Harry Potter novels. If you're looking for fantasy or magic, look elsewhere. J.K. sincerely ensures that this work of adult literature has a recurrent political issue with a character's hidden or troubling past.

I was engrossed from the moment I began reading the first chapter. I'm interested in knowing what happened to Barry. I read on till I became bored. I have no idea why. I might not enjoy reading books with political undertones. At first, it was surprising how rapidly the news spread around the neighborhood. The fact that they repeatedly brought up the main character's death for three chapters in a row gave the impression that the plot revolved on disseminating news of the character's passing. After a time, I found it challenging to read since one of the main characters had a tragic accident.

I found this narrative to be too serious for me despite reading many favorable reviews, and I felt like I should stop reading in the middle. Maybe I'm just accustomed to Rowling's magical books but this one seemed more like a thriller to me. I don't know why, but this one just doesn't appeal to me.

I would not recommend it to someone searching for fantasy, expecting that because JK wrote it, it must include magic. I assure you that the answer is a resounding NO. This work has nothing to do with the Harry Potter series and contains no magic at all.

My Overall Rating: ⭐⭐(2/5)

“You must accept the reality of other people. You think that reality is up for negotiation, that we think it's whatever you say it is. You must accept that we are as real as you are; you must accept that you are not God.”

Only God possesses the power within each of us. He is the only one with knowledge of what will transpire for us in the future. It should be recognized as our reality. We can't go on denying ourselves the reality that is right in front of us. In order to move on to the next phase of our lives, we must learn to confront and accept it.

“Choice was dangerous: you had to forgo all other possibilities when you chose.”

This is real. Making decisions may be risky, especially if you have several options available to you. Any alternative options will undoubtedly be out of your reach after you have made a decision. In light of how risky it is to make a mistake, we must carefully consider all of our options before making a choice. It's a decision where everything is at stake. Therefore, it is expected that choosing takes time, and you shouldn't rush as you cannot change your mind after making a decision.

“It frightened people when you were honest; it shocked them.”

People value honesty yet are terrified of confrontation. Many of us want others to be honest with us, but if we are honest with them and tell them things they don't want to hear, even if they are true, they will be stunned and will likely ignore what we said. I believe that learning to accept the confrontation that comes with such realities is preferable as to their complying with honesty.

 People are odd, which is a constant issue for those of us who enjoy giving books as presents around the holidays. It can be challenging to match the appropriate book to the right reader because individuals are very—perhaps the polite phrase is—meticulous.

We decided to adopt a different strategy for the gift recommendations this year.  With realistic detail, we sought to encompass a significant portion of the well-known ground while also extending a very broad group. Here are some suggestions broken down by the specific traits of the people in your life you'd like to gift books to.

1. A Lady For A Duke by Alexis Hall can work for your mom who enjoys romance but it's odd to get her something too sexy. A beautiful, sweeping historical romance from the bestselling author of Boyfriend Material is ideal for lovers of Netflix's Bridgerton, Evie Dunmore, and Manda Collins. This is your big chance to introduce mom to the world of soft yet personal, amusing but passionate, queer romance novels.

2. The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie is a fantastic choice for that overly knowledgeable friend who insists that they have read every decent mystery series. Alan Bradley's work will do. He subtly and exquisitely alters the cozy mystery formula in his acclaimed Flavia de Luce series. Our main character's detective is a 12-year-old girl from 1950s England who is incredibly smart, has a keen sense of trouble, and loves chemistry. She's charming, intelligent, witty, and endearing, but she also has the same emotional openness as any other adolescent. The first of 10 intricately planned, immensely enjoyable mysteries is titled The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie. Perhaps mention to your gift recipient that this series is addictive.

3. Hala Alyan's Salt Houses is the perfect book for your buddy who enjoys historical fiction but is sick of World War II-themed novels. Hala Alyan, a Palestinian American author and psychotherapist, tells a multigenerational family narrative that starts in 1967, during the Six-Day War. Alia and her family were evicted from their home in the West Bank city of Nablus, and now they must start again in Paris, Boston, Beirut, and Kuwait City. Alyan's first book offers a chance to change perspectives when reading historical fiction.

4. In the Dream House by Carmen Maria Machado is suitable for your choosy friend who believes that most nonfiction books are too monotonous to read. Because it employs fiction techniques and motifs to completely reimagine the memoir genre, this avant-garde 2019 book by Carmen Maria Machado (Her Body and Other Parties) is a great choice for nonfiction doubters. The novel, which is primarily written in the second person, describes Machado's abusive same-sex relationship when she attended the esteemed Iowa Writers' Workshop. In the Dream House is a genuinely new kind of nonfiction that is experimental, intricate, and brutally honest.

5. Gideon the Ninth by Tamsyn Muir will work for your medieval fantasy fanatic friend who wants to read something a little different. Traditional epic fantasy has the drawback that its content is generally predictable. battles of valor. Evil vs Good. Weapons. Black magic. Most likely goblins. Consider New Zealand author Tamsyn Muir if you're shopping for someone who wants to take a peek over the genre horizon. Muir dances across the liminal spaces of magical realism.  The best place to begin is with Gideon the Ninth, her debut book.

Those are some suggestions for the challenging readers in your life. Which books do you have for them? Please provide your own recommendations in the comments area below.

“I am not a good mother because I did not drive four hours to watch my son play football so that he would feel loved. I drove four hours so that I could feel loved.”

― Wendy Walker, Don't Look for Me

Wendy Walker's psychological suspense novel Don't Look For Me is a page-turning read with surprising turns and a satisfying pace. It goes far beyond being a suspenseful thriller. It's a moving depiction of a grieving family and a perceptive examination of shame and guilt, emotional manipulation, and choice. A stunning thriller that is fiercely intelligent, quickly paced, and, most of all, genuinely startling. 

Synopsis from Goodreads...

One night, Molly Clarke walked away from her life. The car abandoned miles from home. The note found at a nearby hotel. The shattered family that couldn't be put back together. It happens all the time. Women disappear, desperate to leave their lives behind and start over. She doesn't want to be found. Or at least, that's the story. But is that what really happened to Molly Clarke?

The night Molly disappeared began with a storm, running out of gas, and a man in a truck offering her a ride to town. With him is a little girl who reminds her of the daughter she lost years ago. It feels like a sign. And Molly is overcome with the desire to be home, with her family—no matter how broken it is. She accepts the ride. But when the doors are locked shut, Molly begins to suspect she has made a terrible mistake.

When a new lead comes in after the search has ended, Molly's daughter, Nicole, begins to wonder. Nothing about her mother's disappearance makes sense.

Nicole returns to the small, desolate town where her mother was last seen to find the truth. The locals are kind and eager to help. The innkeeper. The bartender. Even the police. Until secrets begin to reveal themselves and she comes closer to the truth about that night—and the danger surrounding her.

My reaction to this novel...

I had never read a book by this author before. Despite not knowing Wendy Walker, I chose to give this book a go because it had been sitting on my shelf for a while. 

I became interested in this book after reading the first chapter. If you genuinely want the reader to be involved in a novel, the first chapter or introduction should really pull the reader into the tale, and this book did just that for me. The first and second chapters are both top-notch. Wendy had me think long and hard about who the culprit was.

I found Molly's demeanor to be really endearing. How she overcame serious difficulties and put in a lot of effort in her life. To me, what occurred to her was an accident that she wasn't intending to start. She was in a lot of pain, and I can't blame her for that. It would be difficult if this actually happened in real life.

What I didn't like about this novel was the revelation. It's not what I was expecting. I didn't like it since it wasn't in context. After all of the great story flow, it will end with the words, "What the heck? Is this it?" It's absurd, but perhaps the author wanted her readers to feel that way. I've read good things about it, but compared to other psychological thrillers I really enjoy, I didn't find the ending to be as stunning.

I liked the narrative even if I was a little disappointed in how it finished. I still believe this book is worthwhile to read, despite the fact that the ending is different from what I had in mind.

My Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐✨(3.5/5)

“If there was fault, then there could also be prevention, the illusion of control to make life bearable.”

Everything, in my opinion, has a resolution. We should only have faith that everything can be made right. Simply accepting complete accountability for our actions will enable us to address the issue head-on.

"People tell you their darkest secrets and then regret it and then all they want to do is get away so they can pretend it never happened.”

― Jodi Taylor, Dark Light

The second book in international bestseller author Jodi Taylor's riveting new series of otherworldly thrillers. takes readers on a roller-coaster rollercoaster of happiness and sorrow with a dash of time travel for good measure.

Synopsis from Goodreads...

From the frying pan into the fire.

Betrayed, terrified and alone, Elizabeth Cage has fled her home. With no plan and no friends, she arrives at the picturesque village of Greyston and finds herself involved in an ages-old ceremony that will end in death.

And that might be the least of her problems – the Sorensen Institute would very much like to know her whereabouts. And Michael Jones is still out there, somewhere, she hopes. No matter how far and how fast she can run, trouble will always find Elizabeth Cage.

My reaction to this novel...

I've admired Jodi Taylor since reading Elizabeth Cage's first installment novel. She has a remarkable talent for making her readers experience the emotions of the characters in the book. I remember being afraid and having trouble falling asleep after reading the first book in this series. The same is true of this book. She did a good job of making me apprehensive about the first nine chapters. I felt terrible for the horrified Elizabeth Cage. It was both horrifying and thrilling, making me want to devour the novel in one sitting. Her story's premise just blew me away. It was excellent.

But following those gruesome and spine-tingling chapters, the story dragged on in the middle. The author seemed to be speeding through the episodes, happening all of them at once, and adding cheesy and irrelevant phrases in between. Nothing about it resembled Elizabeth Cage. I don't understand why the author abruptly cut such lovely portions, and I believe it would have been better if she had left them in till the end. The sections in the middle were so dull that I was tempted to skip the entire thing, even though she did return to those great events in the last chapters.

This one was quite difficult for me to complete. Has anyone else read this book and reviewed it? I don't understand why so many of the reviews were 5 stars. There are numerous unrelated side stories. I'll absolutely read the next one, but I'm hoping she gets more acquainted with these characters and their stories. I genuinely believed that this story went off the rails because the core conceit—that the protagonist, Elizabeth, had some psychic ability that an evil institute sought to harness for malevolent ends—morphed into a huge jumble of unearthly chaos. It left me feeling really unsatisfied.

I'll read the third book eventually, just probably not now. I think I still need to erase my bad impressions of this sequel before I can approach the third one with new eyes. I'm not sure whether I'll give it a high rating because I'm so disappointed, but if you've already read the first book, you absolutely must read the sequel to follow Elizabeth's adventure.

My Overall rating: ⭐⭐✨(2.5/5)

“Other people’s secrets are a burden.”

This adage is accurate. Knowing someone's secret is a great burden to bear since you must take it with you throughout your life, especially if what you know is horrifying and will destroy people's lives. You won't have any idea what to do. Perhaps you'll find yourself constantly concerned by things that, in the end, will cause harm. That is why, in my opinion, it is best if we all keep to ourselves and refrain from interjecting in others' conversations or behaviors, especially if you believe it will ultimately be detrimental to both you and the other person.

“One of the curious aspects of a traumatic experience like the one you’ve been through, is how it sometimes results in a softening of your existing boundaries. Sometimes the changes are temporary. But sometimes the person finds they actually quite like this new aspect of their personality, and it becomes a part of them.”

― J.P. Delaney, The Girl Before

JP Delaney's book The Girl Before was published in 2016. The thriller is recounted from the perspectives of two women, Emma and Jane. An intriguing psychological thriller that weaves one woman's seeming luck and another woman's unfathomable fate through a kaleidoscope of deceit, murder, and dishonesty.

Synopsis from Goodreads...

"Please make a list of every possession you consider essential to your life."

The request seems odd, even intrusive - and for the two women who answer, the consequences are devastating.

Emma

Reeling from a traumatic break-in, Emma wants a new place to live. But none of the apartments she sees are affordable or feel safe. Until One Folgate Street. The house is an architectural masterpiece: a minimalist design of pale stone, plate glass, and soaring ceilings. But there are rules. The enigmatic architect who designed the house retains full control: no books, no throw pillows, no photos or clutter or personal effects of any kind. The space is intended to transform its occupant - and it does.

Jane

After a personal tragedy, Jane needs a fresh start. When she finds One Folgate Street, she is instantly drawn to the space - and to its aloof but seductive creator. Moving in, Jane soon learns about the untimely death of the home's previous tenant, a woman similar to Jane in age and appearance. As Jane tries to untangle truth from lies, she unwittingly follows the same patterns, makes the same choices, crosses paths with the same people, and experiences the same terror as the girl before.

My reaction to this novel...

Two different characters' voices are used to tell this narrative in alternate chapters. Jane and Emma reside in a house created by an eccentric architect at various points in time. I was astounded to read how technology had infiltrated people's minds when I read about the house because this was something that was explicitly depicted in the book. Although the architect in this story has established restrictions for the people who were selected to live there, I can't help but be struck by how aristocratic that house is. If I'm searching for a home that will make me feel safe and also has high-tech amenities at a reasonable price, I might even submit an application as a tenant.

Anyway, The Girl Before, has its merits and great storyline. It effectively exposed me to a segment of society; it was almost like going to a gallery. I adore novels with straightforward narrative language that isn't excessively specific about how many ceiling holes there are, etc. I also enjoy changing narrative viewpoints. Because of this, the impacts of the narrative twist are less obvious and more satisfying. I was interested in it all the way through. It also left me feeling torn about the characters. Being uncertain of the author's intended direction made it a major page-turner for me. There's no denying that it has a creepy quality in the story of this novel. Even I felt nervous over the narrative's pace.

Regarding the characters, I especially favored Jane. She had experienced a lot before relocating to the new residence, and that made me feel bad for her. In fact, there have been moments when I had to put it down while I was reading about what had happened to her because I was so sorry for her. In addition, because I worked as an OB-GYN nurse and had patients who had stillbirths, I was familiar with the agony and grief experienced by those moms. As a result, I was very sad and heartbroken for her. Emma, on the other hand, embodies the total antithesis of Jane's attitude. She is such a liar and a complete nutjob that, in terms of her mental state, she definitely needs medical attention. I truly don't like her, and something in me makes me believe that she is to blame for what occurred to her. I find her to be utterly horrible.

If you're searching for a fictitious read that's edgy and keeps you guessing, this is the book for you. You might read this book straight through and enjoy a finely structured thriller that twists and turns its way to the conclusion, or you can spend a lot of time reflecting on the various themes and layers the author has disclosed, as well as the most fundamental and admirable features of human existence. You'll be in the dark during this psychological thriller.

My Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨(4.5/5)

“One of the strange things about grief is the way it ambushes you when you least expect it.”

Sometimes it is pretty unbelievable that the pain of the past would be brought up again just when we believe we are completely okay and have moved on. Even if we believe the pain has lessened or been healed by time, we will still experience the same amount of pain that we felt before. 

“When someone dies, we spend so much time looking for an explanation. The rest of the time we spend making sure we won't forget them. So we build statues. Hold memorials. Visit graves. All of these physical markers that make it impossible to forget. But what if it's the opposite? What if the only way we can really remember is if we stop looking to the past? Maybe then they'll become more them and less us.”

― Michael Belanger, The History Of Jane Doe

A moving, hilarious coming-of-age tale about first love, first heartbreak, and the significance of history in human life.  This remarkable story from a captivating new YA voice blends comedy and heartbreak.

Synopsis from Goodreads...

History buff Ray knows everything about the peculiar legends and lore of his rural Connecticut hometown. Burgerville's past is riddled with green cow sightings and human groundhogs, but the most interesting thing about the present is the new girl--we'll call her Jane Doe.

Inscrutable, cool, and above all mysterious, Jane seems as determined to hide her past as Ray is to uncover it. As fascination turns to friendship and then to something more, Ray is certain he knows Jane's darkest, most painful secrets and Jane herself--from past to present. But when the unthinkable happens, Ray is forced to acknowledge that perhaps history can only tell us so much.

My reaction to this novel...

I came into this book while looking through Goodreads. I don't know why I read this one, but after hearing good things about it, I made the decision to start reading it right then.

Actually, the author of this book is comparable to John Green in terms of writing, according to the reviews I've read. I'm not a fan of John Green, yet something sparked my curiosity. This author, in my opinion, outperforms John Green. Of contrast to John Green's writing, which didn't touch my heart and left me feeling nothing, I was engrossed from the first chapter in this book. I was immediately drawn into the story and didn't want to put it down.  I am so happy that I opted to read this fantastic novel on a whim.

It worked incredibly well, in my opinion, to tell this book's story in chapters that alternate between before and after. You can see from the beginning that everything will turn out as you had hoped. However, you also get to witness everything as it begins, and the correlation was really effective. In spite of the fact that the book deals with a lot of challenging subjects, I believe it does a great job of keeping everything grounded in reality. As Ray recounts his and Jane's love story, the narrative transports you through joy, sorrow, and even tragedy. The author, in my opinion, did a fantastic job with a very delicate issue; in fact, he even added his own life anecdotes in the acknowledgements and resources for individuals who suffer from depression.

I adored everything about this book, including the odd local mythology, the characters' hearts and humor, the cover and from what was expressed to what was omitted. I can't wait to read more from this author; it's a fantastic debut.

My Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐(4/5)

“I realize the main problem with history. You can talk about it. Analyze it. Dissect it. Study it. Put it in a museum. But you can never, ever, no matter how hard you try, relive it. By its very definition, it's over as soon as it happens. Meanwhile, life moves on.”

This is really accurate. For me, this quote has some relevance now, especially where I live. People often pause to consider what has transpired in the past. There are also occasions when it appears as though they value the past over the present. They continue to argue about what happened in the past, but if they stop to consider it, they will realize that while the past is significant, we shouldn't linger on it. Instead, we should make every effort and put out commitment in the moment to improve. Because the past is the past and cannot be changed, regardless of how frequently we discuss it.

“I didn't want it to be one good memory that led to a lot of bad ones. I wanted it to stay what it was, one amazing moment, something that was strong and sweet enough to stand on its own. Something I could remember without any pain.”

― Elizabeth Scott, Perfect You

Synopsis from Goodreads...

Kate Brown's life has gone downhill fast.

Her father has quit his job to sell vitamins at the mall, and Kate is forced to work with him. Her best friend has become popular, and now she acts like Kate's invisible.

And then there's Will. Gorgeous, unattainable Will, whom Kate acts like she can't stand even though she can't stop thinking about him. When Will starts acting interested, Kate hates herself for wanting him when she's sure she's just his latest conquest.

Kate figures that the only way things will ever stop hurting so much is if she keeps to herself and stops caring about anyone or anything. What she doesn't realize is that while life may not always be perfect, good things can happen -- but only if she lets them..

My reaction to this novel...

I've had this book for years, but I just now got around to reading it. Since I have heard of Elizabeth Scott previously and have seen some reviews of her works, I am actually rather excited to read my first book from her. I noted that the author used straightforward language throughout, which made it enjoyable and eerily chilling to read. She crafts the story in a style that teens would adore. The story moves quickly, so until I glanced at the page I was currently reading, I was not aware that I had already read half of it. The first half of the novel was fantastic, I was actually reminded of my adolescent years.

After finishing the book, I realized how annoyed I was with Kate, Anna, and Steve (Kate's father). The way Steve is careless, narrow-minded, and egotistical truly irritates me. I cannot put up with his philosophy. It appeared as though he had not given his family any thought at all. I was furious at him for making me glad about what happened to him in the end. His behavior truly irritated me. He is such a child. I'm so annoyed at him that I can't even describe it. I felt compelled to see and speak with him until he made sense.

Additionally, I don't like Anna's persona. She really is such a loser. If I were Kate, I would never conceive of becoming Anna's friend again after all the opportunities she has given Anna to make up for her. She is not at all a good friend. Her way of thinking condemns her to failure. She is to blame for never having a close friend. It's beyond comprehension how quickly she can get away with what she did to Kate. How foolish Kate is because of her, and how ungrateful Kate is for repeatedly forgiving Anna while harboring negative feelings against her grandmother? Although I am aware that her granny is far too much to manage, old people shouldn't be treated in such a disrespectful manner.

This is probably a standard teen story with themes of family, friendship, and love. It's probably intended for girls, but I think boys could like it as well. I don't think this book is for me because I can't stand the teen drama in it. It is somewhat dramatic and heavily self-centered, which I found to be intrusive. Despite being somewhat disappointed, I still intend to read more works by Elizabeth Scott in the future.

My Overall Rating: ⭐⭐(2/5)

“Things end. People leave. And you know what? Life goes on. Besides, if bad things didn't happen, how would you be able to feel the good ones?”

All things, including humans, have and must come to an end. Endings are always followed by new beginnings. It's the same as in a problem. Those who are suffering from it may seem as if it will never stop and is extremely oppressive, but one day you will wake up and realize that the situation has been handled and you are ready to face the new beginning. Without an ending, we may take our lives for granted and believe that they will just keep flowing through the system of life, failing to enjoy each and every moment of it.

"Sometimes a cool breeze might be just what the doctor ordered. Sometimes a warm hand on the belly. Sometimes doing absolutely nothing is the best. You have to pay attention. Slow things way down. Tune out the rest of the world that really doesn’t matter. Feel what the moment calls for.”

― Joyce Maynard, Labor Day

The renowned author Joyce Maynard spins a stunning, moving story of love, sex, adolescence, and tragic betrayal as seen through the eyes of a young teenage boy—and the man he later becomes—looking back upon an unexpected encounter that begins one one long, hot, life-altering weekend. The story is resonant of Ian McEwan's Atonement and Nick Hornby's About a Boy.

Synopsis from Goodreads...

With the end of summer closing in and a steamy Labor Day weekend looming in the town of Holton Mills, New Hampshire, thirteen-year-old Henry—lonely, friendless, not too good at sports—spends most of his time watching television, reading, and daydreaming about the soft skin and budding bodies of his female classmates. For company Henry has his long-divorced mother, Adele—a onetime dancer whose summer project was to teach him how to foxtrot; his hamster, Joe; and awkward Saturday-night outings to Friendly's with his estranged father and new stepfamily. As much as he tries, Henry knows that even with his jokes and his "Husband for a Day" coupon, he still can't make his emotionally fragile mother happy. Adele has a secret that makes it hard for her to leave their house, and seems to possess an irreparably broken heart.

But all that changes on the Thursday before Labor Day, when a mysterious bleeding man named Frank approaches Henry and asks for a hand. Over the next five days, Henry will learn some of life's most valuable lessons: how to throw a baseball, the secret to perfect piecrust, the breathless pain of jealousy, the power of betrayal, and the importance of putting others—especially those we love—above ourselves. And the knowledge that real love is worth waiting for.

My reaction to this novel...

This is the first book I've read by Joyce Maynard, and I initially assumed it belonged in the action/suspense genre. The first few pages were incredibly strange to me, but as I read on and finished the book, it left me speechless wondering what had occurred and how my heart was hurting. I'm not sure why, but the betrayal of the story that transpired really affected me. Like it actually happened to me. There are several instances in the novel where I am thankful to Frank for the way he handled other two main characters, even if there are occasions when I felt uneasy because I was anticipating a disaster (but to my surprise, nothing that I was anticipating happened). I was very pleased and relieved that I made the decision to read this book. It did not disappoint me, but it did break my heart.

I honestly can't get enough of the story. I can't express my admiration for this remarkable story enough. Even though I am aware that everything ended well, my heart still bleeds for Frank. In a world that had harmed him so severely in about every manner a person can be harmed, Frank was still managing to be so positive. I was really sorry for him. Such an occurrence is accurately depicted by the author, who does so with tenderness and objectivity. The accumulation of information and feelings throughout the book happens in such a conventional manner that the story's entire impact doesn't fully sink in with me as a reader until the book's final, spectacular ending.

I also want to express my admiration for the author for having the ability to transform the rather improbable primary premise into a pleasantly surprising nice and peaceful story. Even when Adele's decisions seem absurd, she still manages to create a sympathetic, complex figure. Even though one has to make a leap of faith a few times in the process, Adele's need for affection and Henry's longing for a father figure are both apparent. I don't generally read the kind of books Labor Day is, but I'm pleased I did. I was able to get lost in the intricate characters and the brilliantly crafted, moving story.

Reading this book will provide you the reading satisfaction you're seeking for if you're looking for a gripping, tearjerking and page-turning books that might be on a bestseller list. By reading this, you'll have a story that you will likely treasure for the rest of your life and may even recommend it to the next generation.

My Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐(5/5)

"There was so much to remember, sometimes the best thing was to forget.”

It is so simple to overlook the events that take place in our daily life. However, forgetting is typically difficult, particularly if what occurred to you was devastating. Even if you make every effort to put the past behind you, it will always come back to haunt you during the worst possible moment.

“A lot of your problem was in your head. You see yourself screwing up, it’s going to happen.”

Most of the time, we are our own worst enemy. Because we are worried about failing, we are preventing ourselves from growing. We tell ourselves we can't do it and that we will fail even if we don't try to accomplish what we actually want to achieve because we are terrified of being judged. Being pessimistic might destroy our future and our goals. The course of our lives can be significantly changed by having faith in our own abilities.

“I have faith that God will show you the answer. But you have to understand that sometimes it takes a while to be able to recognize what God wants you to do. That's how it often is. God's voice is usually nothing more than a whisper, and you have to listen very carefully to hear it. But other times, in those rarest of moments, the answer is obvious and rings as loud as a church bell.”

― Nicholas Sparks, The Last Song

Nicholas Sparks, an American author, published The Last Song in 2009. The Last Song is Nicholas Sparks' fourteenth published book and the inspiration for the same-named movie. Grand Central Publishing issued The Last Song on September 1, 2009, and it immediately topped the weekly bestseller charts. As well as topping the Wall Street Journal's fiction list, it topped the hardcover fiction charts for Publishers Weekly, the New York Times, and Publishers Weekly. The Last Song outsold all other books in its first week, according to the ranking from USA Today, which includes sales of a book in all media.

The story that follows is a fascinating tale of love in its many manifestations, including first love and the love shared by parents and children. As only a Nicholas Sparks book can, it illustrates the various ways that deeply felt relationships may break our hearts. . . as well as heal them.

Synopsis from Goodreads...

Seventeen-year-old Veronica 'Ronnie' Miller’s life was turned upside-down when her parents divorced and her father moved from New York City to Wilmington, North Carolina. Three years later, she remains angry and alienated from her parents, especially her father . . . until her mother decides it would be in everyone’s best interest if she spent the summer in Wilmington with him. Ronnie’s father, a former concert pianist and teacher, is living a quiet life in the beach town, immersed in creating a work of art that will become the centerpiece of a local church.

My reaction to this novel...

Nicholas Sparks is one of the authors I turn to when I need a good cry. I can't stop crying every time I read books from him. He has an uncanny ability to make the readers cry like the story is real. Every time I read one of his books, I feel as though I am going to burst. This one is included. In fact, I had a general concept of what would transpire in the story. When you read his books, you learn to predict how the plot will end, but even if you get the ending right, you'll still be surprised by the feelings that will suddenly flood through you. That's how he makes me feel.

Of course, love is a major topic in this novel, but so is forgiveness. The daughter's unfolding events during the course of a summer were also well-captured by the author, as were the sentiments of two kids to their parent's separation. I particularly loved how he presented Steve, the father, as someone who is trying to change for his children. I feel connected to the characters in this book, and it also appeals to my emotions, which occasionally allows me to disconnect from the outside world. It also inspires the reader to have a strong confidence in God, even if all of their questions are not immediately resolved.

I like how, despite the fact that Sparks is known as a romance author, he consistently finds new methods to put love in the spotlight. I was completely astounded by the story's ability to portray so many different ideas and emotions. Additionally, it is even better because the tale was lengthier and the characters had deeper character development than ever before. Even though I have to admit that Marcus' punishment was insufficient for me since I was so irritated and upset with him that I had predicted the worst for him, I still found the narrative to be extremely moving and loved all that transpired, even though they did not emphasize Marcus' punishment thoroughly.

I really appreciated the romantic love story contained inside the lines of this book, but Steve, was the very finest part of the novel. Reading Steve's outlook on life and his actions justified the hours I deprived myself of sleep. I can't imagine ever forgetting this tale, and I heartily recommend it to all readers out there.

My Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨(4.5/5)

“Sometimes you have to be apart from people you love, but that doesn't make you love them any less. Sometimes you love them more.”

Being separated from someone we love is incredibly difficult. We worry that being apart could weaken our love. However, even if they are thousands of miles away, our love will only deepen if we have real faith in our relationship to the individuals from whom we shall be parted. As long as there is faith, there will always be love, thus we must have good faith in our relationship.

“Never forget that God is your friend. And like all friends, He longs to hear what's been happening in your life. Good or bad, whether it's been full of sorrow or anger, or even when you're questioning why terrible things have to happen.”

This is absolutely true. We can always rely on God. Even though we occasionally only think of him when we are facing problems, he is always willing to listen. God is a friend who truly wants to hear from us about everything, even our joys and sorrows. He will give us consolation in our hour of need without passing judgment. Even when we think we are alone, he is always there. He will always be by our side at all times, so all we need to do is trust him and open our hearts to him.

 "Sometimes, the heart sees what is invisible to the eye."

--H. Jackson Brown Jr.

A single life-altering event is examined in Danielle Steel's 53rd and current number-one bestseller. The Kiss is both an inspiring reminder of how fleeting life is also a magnificent tale of how love can free, transform, and restore damaged spirits. Danielle Steel tells a tale of bravery in the face of unfathomable grief in a book that is both captivating and kind. She examines the courage needed to face our biggest anxieties with the elegance of a master storyteller, illuminating how the most difficult decisions may result in the most surprising rewards. And how even the most difficult, meandering roads may begin with a single kiss.

Synopsis from Goodreads...

Isabelle Forrester is the exquisite wife of a prominent Parisian banker who has long since shut her out of his heart. For lonely years, Isabelle has lived a life of isolation, pouring her passions into caring for her desperately ill son, Teddy, and into making their Paris home as happy as possible for her teenage daughter, Sophie. Isabelle allows herself one secret pleasure: a long-distance friendship by telephone with an American man, a Washington power broker who travels in the highest circles of politics and who, like Isabelle, is trapped in an empty marriage. To Bill Robinson, Isabelle is a godsend, a woman of extraordinary beauty and intellectual curiosity—a kindred spirit who touches him across the miles with her warmth and gentle empathy. Their relationship is a gift, a lifeline that sustains them both through the heartache of marriages they cannot leave and will not betray. Agreeing to meet for a few precious, innocent days in London, Isabelle and Bill find their friendship changing. Then, amidst the sudden crash of steel against steel, they are thrust onto a new path, a path fraught with pain but also with possibility.

Now, inside the cool, sterile wards of a London hospital, Isabelle and Bill cling to life, their bodies shattered almost beyond repair. In the days and weeks that follow, they slowly, painfully traverse a road to recovery littered with challenges of the body, spirit, and heart. Together, they must find the strength not only to embrace life again but to face what they have left behind. For Isabell, a loveless marriage turns into a brutal power struggle. For Bill, a time of healing exposes wounds that cut deeper than steel and realities that will test him to his core. For both, a tangle of changing relationships and the tragedy of another loss conspire to separate them once again. And this time they could lose each other forever.

My reaction to this novel...

I was long ago given this book's recommendation by a friend. This one, according to her, is one of her favorites. I didn't own a copy of this book at the time, so I opted to get one after finding it at a bookshop. Because of my friend's recommendation and the fact that we both prefer thriller genres and read less romance books than most people, I had high expectations for this book. I couldn't wait to start reading it right away.

The novel got off to a good start. The author utilized basic terms, making it straightforward to read. Since I was a teenager, I have known that she is the popular one when it comes to romance novels; yet, because I don't particularly enjoy reading romance novels, it has only just occurred to me to read any of her works. I was captivated to Isabelle's personality and had a lot of sympathy for her. After a while, I began to realize how repetitive it was, to the point that I had to go back and double-check the pages to make sure I wasn't reading the same chapters again. The author's constant emphasis on the same issue gave the impression that she had entered into an agreement necessitating a large number of words in order to comply with it. The number of words in the book may have been cut in half. I want someone to halt what feels like a merry-go-round, but the motors want it to keep going, leaving me both frustrated and dizzy at the same time.

The majority of the plot is quite uninteresting, which leaves me feeling a little let down by the book.  Additionally, it's too predictable. Furthermore, rather of just uttering certain phrases and repeating them again, character attributes may have been better communicated through circumstances. I had to skip through significant portions of the book because of the author's writing errors. The length of the phrases and paragraphs makes me question who edited the book. There are so many repeats in the book's 435 pages that I got the impression that Ms. Steel was addressing the reader like a simple-minded fool. Even when characters aren't meant to know anything, she repeats it in their minds. Everything about it was illogical.

The remainder of the book is drenched in melodrama more appropriate for soap operas than for the pleasure of reading. There was nothing substantive in this book. It's a little bit of a waste of time. I'm not going to recommend it to everyone who has not yet gotten their hands on it. It is utterly disappointing. I can't get over how dissatisfied I am with this one.

My Overall Rating: ⭐✨(1.5/5)