The Dalai Lama's Cat trilogy by David Michie

Synopsis for The Dali Lama's Cat:
Starving and pitiful, a mud-smeared kitten is rescued from the slums of New Delhi and transported to a life she could have never imagined. In a beautiful sanctuary overlooking the snow-capped Himalayas, she begins her new life as the Dalai Lama’s cat.

Warmhearted, irreverent, and wise, this cat of many names opens a window to the inner sanctum of life in Dharamsala. A tiny spy observing the constant flow of private meetings between His Holiness and everyone from Hollywood celebrities to philanthropists to self-help authors, the Dalai Lama’s cat provides us with insights on how to find happiness and meaning in a busy, materialistic world. Her story will put a smile on the face of anyone who has been blessed by the kneading paws and bountiful purring of a cat.
(Synopsis from Goodreads). 

Synopsis for The Dalai Lama's Cat and the Art of Purring:
Before leaving for a teaching tour to America, the Dalai Lama poses a challenge to his beloved feline, HHC (His Holiness’s Cat): to discover the true cause of happiness. Little does she know what adventures this task will bring!     A hair-raising chase through the streets of McLeod Ganj leads to an unexpected revelation about the perils of self-obsession. An encounter with the mystical Yogi Tarchen inspires a breakthrough discovery about her past—one with dramatic implications for us all. And overheard conversations between ivy-league psychologists, high-ranking lamas, and famous writers who congregate at the Himalaya Book Café help her explore the convergence between science and Buddhism on the vital subject of happiness.     Sparkling with wisdom, warmth, and a touch of mischief, The Dalai Lama’s Cat and the Art of Purring is a charming reminder of why HHC is becoming one of the most-loved cats around the world.So what is the true cause of purring? The Dalai Lama whispers this secret on his return—only for the ears of HHC and those with whom she has a karmic connection . . . that, dear reader, means you!
(Synopsis from Goodreads).

Synopsis for The Dalai Lama's Cat and the Power of Meow:
In the latest installment of the Dalai Lama’s Cat series, His Holiness’s Cat (“HHC”) is on a mission: to think less, to experience more, to live in the moment. She soon learns the proper phrase for this, being mindful, or, a concept better known to her as the power of meow. What ensues is a journey to discover her own true nature, to gain a deeper understanding of her mind, and to experience life’s greatest joy, the here and now.
 
Throughout, there are encounters with familiar inhabitants of Dharamsala, as well as a whole new cast of characters: a senior exec from one of Silicon Valley’s most famous social media companies (hint: the name rhymes with “litter”), the Pope’s beloved dog (who shares a shockingly similar title: HHD, His Holiness’s Dog), and a public health inspector who threatens to have our poor narrator banned from the Himalaya Book Café.
 
In this follow-up to the Dalai Lama’s Cat and the Art of Purring, readers escape to the enchanting and exotic world of the Dalai Lama’s monastery in the Himalayas, and take a peek inside the mind of a delightfully imperfect creature on the path to enlightenment. By accompanying HHC on her journey, you will learn new ways to relate to your own mind: slowing down, finding peace, and abiding in the boundless radiance and benevolence that is your own true nature.
(Synopsis from Goodreads). 

My Thoughts:
I love reading books about cats. If I could read nothing but books about cats, I probably would, and be happy while doing it. I love learning everything I can about them. I also love learning about religions that I haven't studied yet. When I heard about The Dalai Lama's Cat trilogy, it sounded like the perfect book trilogy for me. I'm so glad that I picked it up. I loved the trilogy so much that I ended up reading all three books in a twenty-four hour time span.

When I started the first book in the trilogy, I wasn't entirely sure what to expect. I thought I would get a few cute stories about HHC (His Holiness' Cat) that would make me chuckle. However, this trilogy was so much more than that. Yes, there were great about HHC that made me laugh so hard, especially the one about drinking the reporter's water. There were also times where the book made me sad, like when a certain main character dies out of nowhere, and I find myself sobbing. The book made me feel so many different emotions that a book hadn't made me feel in such a long time.

The Dalai Lama's Cat trilogy also taught me several different things. I didn't know much about Buddhism before reading this book. Now, it's definitely a religion I want to research more. I love the idea of finding inner peace by thinking of others, instead of thinking of yourself all the time. I've tried to practice that ever since I finished the book, and it actually does work. It makes me feel a lot calmer. The trilogy also made me want to do some research on The Dalai Lama. I was curious if he actually had a cat, so I googled it, and went from there. I found out that he has wrote a few books, and placed a hold on them from the library right away.

I loved everything about The Dalai Lama's Cat trilogy. Going into the book, I wasn't sure what to expect, but I was pleasantly surprised by what I got. I loved the stories about HHC, and loved learning more about Buddhism. This trilogy has inspired me to live in a way that is kinder to others, and brings inner peace. I can't wait to read more books about Buddhism, and The Dalai Lama. I recommend this trilogy to anyone looking for a captivating tale with great lessons attached on how to live in a peaceful environment.

I give The Dalai Lama's Cat trilogy: 4.5/5.

Want to know more about the author?
Website: http://davidmichie.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/davidmichieauthor/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/DavidMichieOm
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/dnmichie
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/395361.David_Michie

I received this trilogy from the publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review. I was in no way compensated for this review.

Our Own Private Universe by Robin Talley

Synopsis:
Fifteen-year-old Aki Simon has a theory. And it's mostly about sex. 

No, it isn't that kind of theory. Aki already knows she's bisexual—even if, until now, it's mostly been in the hypothetical sense. Aki has dated only guys so far, and her best friend, Lori, is the only person who knows she likes girls, too. 

Actually, Aki's theory is that she's got only one shot at living an interesting life—and that means she's got to stop sitting around and thinking so much. It's time for her to actually do something. Or at least try. 

So when Aki and Lori set off on a church youth-group trip to a small Mexican town for the summer and Aki meets Christa—slightly older, far more experienced—it seems her theory is prime for the testing. 

But it's not going to be easy. For one thing, how exactly do two girls have sex, anyway? And more important, how can you tell if you're in love? It's going to be a summer of testing theories—and the result may just be love.
(Synopsis from Goodreads). 

My Thoughts:
I had wanted to read Our Own Private Universe ever since the book was first posted on Goodreads. The F/F LGBTQ+ story line interested me because at the time, most of the LGBTQ+ young adult books I had read were M/M. Then the cover was revealed. It was one of the most beautiful covers I had ever seen. After that, I knew I had to get my hands on this book somehow. After reading it, I found it to be enjoyable, yet disappointing at the same time.

Don't get me wrong, I did enjoy parts of Our Own Private Universe. I loved that the setting was in Mexico on a mission trip. It brought something new to the LGBTQ+ young adult subgenre. It was also interesting to see the internal battle between, faith, following your heart, and sticking to what you believe in. As an atheist, I've never had that problem, so it was fascinating to see that perspective.

There were also a few things I didn't like about Our Own Private Universe. The relationship between the two girls fell flat for me. It felt kind of like the author was forcing them together, even though they didn't have much chemistry. I also didn't care for how the relationship was resolved in the end. I'm trying to be vague because I don't want to spoil it for anyone who hasn't read it, but something happened that drove me crazy.

Our Own Private Universe was a fairly enjoyable book to read. I was bummed that it didn't hold up to my expectations though. I will probably Robin Talley's other books, but they aren't high on my priority list at the moment. I recommend this book to anyone looking for an LGBTQ+ coming of age story. Just don't get your expectations based on the beautiful cover.

I give Our Own Private Universe: 3.5/5.

Want to know more about the author?
Website: http://www.robintalley.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/robintalleywrites
Twitter: https://twitter.com/robin_talley
Tumblr: http://robintalley.tumblr.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robin_talley/
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6469490.Robin_Talley

I received this book from the publisher, via Edelweiss, in exchange for an honest review. I was in no way compensated for this review. 

A Rancher to Love by Trish Milburn

Synopsis:
Leah Murphy just wants to feel safe again after a violent break-in. Moving to Blue Falls, Texas, is the first step. Renting the bunkhouse from rancher Tyler Lowe is the second. But Leah is uneasy around the handsome cowboy, despite his kindness. 

Tyler knows all too well how difficult it is to rebuild trust. He's trying to help his young niece heal from her own dark memories. When he sees how Maddie responds to Leah, he can't help feeling grateful—and attracted to the beautiful woman. He knows he has to move slowly to win Leah's heart, but he also knows she's worth the wait.
(Synopsis from Goodreads).

My Thoughts:
Trish Milburn is one of my all time favorite authors. There's just something about her writing that I love. I can usually sit down, and read one of her books in a couple of hours because I get so sucked into the world of Blue Falls, Texas. A Rancher to Love is no exception to that rule. I loved everything about the book. 

I loved returning to the community of Blue Falls, and seeing some of my favorite characters. I also enjoyed meeting the new characters. Tyler and Leah have become two of my favorite of Trish Milburn's characters. The book had a lot of cheesy moments, and sappiness, which usually annoys me. However, the author makes it work. Instead of being annoyed, I thought it felt authentic. It felt like it was there for a reason, instead of just being silly. 

A Rancher to Love became my second favorite Blue Falls book (my favorite is Her Cowboy Groom). I can't wait for Trish Milburn to write more books in this series, now that I'm all caught up. I will happily devour them, and probably still want more when I'm done. I just can't get enough of the world Trish Milburn has created in Blue Falls, Texas.

I give A Rancher to Love: 5/5.

Want to know more about the author?
Website: http://www.trishmilburn.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/trishmilburnauthor
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TrishMilburn
Pintrest: https://www.pinterest.com/trishmilburn2/
Google+: https://plus.google.com/u/0/108409297131247035285
Tumblr: http://trishmilburn.tumblr.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_ZWx-6uHzvRGtSCu8If-dA?feature=
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/1335180.Trish_Milburn

I received this book from the publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review. I was in no way compensated for this review.

Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda by Becky Albertalli

Synopsis:
Sixteen-year-old and not-so-openly gay Simon Spier prefers to save his drama for the school musical. But when an email falls into the wrong hands, his secret is at risk of being thrust into the spotlight. Now Simon is actually being blackmailed: if he doesn’t play wingman for class clown Martin, his sexual identity will become everyone’s business. Worse, the privacy of Blue, the pen name of the boy he’s been emailing, will be compromised.

With some messy dynamics emerging in his once tight-knit group of friends, and his email correspondence with Blue growing more flirtatious every day, Simon’s junior year has suddenly gotten all kinds of complicated. Now, change-averse Simon has to find a way to step out of his comfort zone before he’s pushed out—without alienating his friends, compromising himself, or fumbling a shot at happiness with the most confusing, adorable guy he’s never met.
(Synopsis from Goodreads). 

My Thoughts:
I love LGBTQ+ books, especially coming out stories. It's one of my favorite things to read about. I had heard a lot of good things about Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda, so I decided to give it a try. I'm glad I did. I loved the book. My only regret is that I didn't read it sooner. 

I had owned Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda for about a year, and hadn't picked it up. It just never caught my interest. Now I regret that. I wish I had read it sooner. It was the perfect coming out story. It captured all of the emotions that go along with that; fear, nervousness, anxiousness, and finally this huge feeling of relief. The book made me laugh, cry, and everything in between. Becky Albertalli wrote the character of Simon in a way that made him very relatable. I felt myself being able to identify with him, and his struggle, throughout the book. 

Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda is definitely in my top five books I've read in 2017 so far. Heck, it might even be one of my favorite books of all time. Becky Albertalli just has this way of writing that pulls you into the book from the very beginning. I can't wait to read her other book, The Upside of Unrequited. I recommend this book to young adult, and adult readers alike who want a feel good, coming of age story.

I give Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda: 5/5.

Want to know more about the author?
Website: https://www.beckyalbertalli.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/beckyalbertalli
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7579036.Becky_Albertalli

I received this book from the publisher, via Edelweiss, in exchange for an honest review. I was in no way compensated for this review.

House of Secrets: Clash of the Worlds by Chris Columbus, Ned Vizzini, and Chris Rylander

Synopsis:
The third and final book in the epic HOUSE OF SECRETS series. Get ready for another roller coaster ride of an adventure!

Just when the Walker kids thought life would finally go back to normal, they realize their adventures are far from over. They’ll encounter dinosaurs, aliens, killer robots, and the Wind Witch herself—with new friends and old—and be faced with some of the deadliest choices they’ll ever have to make. The scariest thing of all could be deciding who to trust, since everyone is hiding something...
(Synopsis from Goodreads). 

My Thoughts:
This year, I have a goal of trying to complete most of the series I've started, and never finished throughout the years. Due to that, I decided to finally finish the House of Secrets trilogy. I picked up the final book, Clash of the Worlds, and thought it was a great ending to the trilogy. 

At first, Clash of the Worlds got off to a slow start. The first fifty pages or so were incredibly boring. I found myself wanting to put the book down, and struggling to get through it. I'm glad I didn't put it down though because after that, the book's plot picked up, and became the fast paced whirlwind that I've come to know and love from Christopher Columbus, and Ned Vizzini. There were several times, especially towards the end, where I found myself biting my nails, wondering how the kids were going to get through the mess they found themselves in. There were also times where I felt like the authors were tearing apart my heartstrings, putting them back together again, only to rip them out again later in the book. 

I loved all of the characters in Clash of the Worlds. I was happy that some of my favorite characters returned, even if it was only briefly. I wasn't expecting a couple of them to show up at all in the book, so it was a pleasant surprise when they did. I was also impressed with the character growth in this book. Looking from the first book to this last one, the characters have matured so much that the reader would think they are entirely different characters. My favorite character will always be Fat Jagger. I loved that we got to see so much of him in this book, and that he played a pivitol role. 

Even though I didn't like the first book in this trilogy, House of Secrets has become one of my favorite series. I thought that the ending of the trilogy was really good. I hope that Chris Columbus eventually turns this trilogy into a movie, or tv show because he is a wonderful director, and I would love to see his vision for his own book. I recommend Clash of the Worlds to kids and adults that are looking for a fast paced thrill ride.

I give House of Secrets: Clash of the Worlds: 4/5.

Want to know where to buy this book?
Amazon
Book Depository
Better World Books

I received this book from the publisher, via Edelweiss, in exchange for an honest review. I was in no way compensated for this review.

The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas

Synopsis:
Sixteen-year-old Starr Carter moves between two worlds: the poor neighborhood where she lives and the fancy suburban prep school she attends. The uneasy balance between these worlds is shattered when Starr witnesses the fatal shooting of her childhood best friend Khalil at the hands of a police officer. Khalil was unarmed.

Soon afterward, his death is a national headline. Some are calling him a thug, maybe even a drug dealer and a gangbanger. Protesters are taking to the streets in Khalil's name. Some cops and the local drug lord try to intimidate Starr and her family. What everyone wants to know is: what really went down that night? And the only person alive who can answer that is Starr.

But what Starr does or does not say could upend her community. It could also endanger her life.
(Synopsis from Goodreads). 

My Thoughts:
Typically, I don't read a lot of books as soon as they are released that have hype surrounding them. However, everywhere I've looked on social media lately, I've been seeing The Hate U Give. It's impossible not to see a post about it while scrolling through my various social media feeds. I couldn't escape it, so I decided to just give into the pressure and read it. It was one of the best bookish decisions I've made recently. It was worth all of the hype surrounding it, and then some. 

The Hate U Give is such an important book. I think it should be on reading lists at schools throughout the country. It puts the into Starr's shoes, and gives a perspective that some people don't get in regards to the Black Lives Matter movement. It forces the reader to see the world in a completely new way. 

After reading The Hate U Give, I was completely outraged at the way minority groups are treated. I couldn't believe how much I didn't previously know about police brutality. I wanted to take a stand, and say enough is enough. I wanted to call my senators, and tell them to take a stand against police brutality. I wanted to protest the unfair treatment of people of color by police officers. Before reading The Hate U Give I knew police brutality happened, but I didn't think it affected me. Now I know better. It affects every member of the community, regardless of race. 

The Hate U Give was a powerful, moving book. Not only did it mess with my emotions, but it taught me so much that I never knew before. I wish that I could convince everyone to read it, and get a copy of the book in everyone's hands. It's worth all of the hype it's been getting, and more. Maybe if more people were willing to read this, and see from a perspective that they don't usually get, the world would be a better place.

I give The Hate U Give: 5/5.

Want to know more about the author?
Website: http://angiethomas.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ACThomasAuthor
Twitter: https://twitter.com/acthomasbooks
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/acwrites/
Tumblr: http://writerzambitionz.tumblr.com/
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/15049422.Angie_Thomas

I received this book from the publisher, via Edelweiss, in exchange for an honest review. I was in no way compensated for this review.

The Valiant by Lesley Livingston

Synopsis:
Fallon is the daughter of a proud Celtic king, the sister of the legendary warrior Sorcha, and the sworn enemy of Julius Caesar.

When Fallon was a child, Caesar’s armies invaded her homeland, and her beloved sister was killed in battle.

Now, on the eve of her seventeenth birthday, Fallon is eager to follow in her sister’s footsteps and earn her place in the fearsome Cantii war band. She never gets the chance.

Fallon is captured and sold to an elite training school for female gladiators—owned by none other than Julius Caesar. In a cruel twist of fate, the man who destroyed Fallon’s family might be her only hope of survival.

Now Fallon must overcome vicious rivalries and deadly fights—in and out of the arena. And perhaps the most dangerous threat of all: her forbidden yet irresistible feelings for Cai, a young Roman soldier.
(Synopsis from Goodreads).

My Thoughts:
The Valiant has been getting a lot of buzz lately. When I saw one of my favorite Booktubers, Peruse Project, review it and saw how much she loved it, I knew I had to read the book. She and I typically have similar tastes in books, and this was no exception. I loved the book. 

At first when I started The Valiant, I wasn't sure what to think of it. The first few pages weren't catching my interest at all. However, after the suction scene, I was all in. I love books set in ancient Rome. The way Lesley Livingstone wrote the book makes the reader feel like they were in ancient Rome beside Fallon, the main character, training to be a female gladiator. I loved how descriptive and detailed the world building was. The author did a great job bringing the world to life.

The main character, Fallon, was so badass. She was a kickass warrior, but that's not the only reason for her badassness. When she first came to the gladiator training school, she faced a lot of adversity. She was bullied constantly, but she never let that get her down. In fact, in a way, she used it to push herself to become stronger.

The Valiant was the first Lesley Livingston book I've read, but it won't be the last. I plan on reading her Wondrous Strange trilogy next, a trilogy about faeries. I loved The Valiant. I think with the way it ended, it could be read as a standalone. However, I'm going to read the rest of the trilogy because I'm so excited to get more of these characters.

I give The Valiant: 5/5.

Want to know more about the author?
Website: http://www.lesleylivingston.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LesleyLivingstonAuthor
Twitter: https://twitter.com/LesLivingston
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/1312879.Lesley_Livingston

I received this book from the publisher, via Edelweiss, in exchange for an honest review. I was in no way compensated for this review.

The Iron Tiara by Beth Flynn Release Day Blitz

BLURB

Anthony Bear and Christy Chapman are from two completely different worlds.Anthony's the leader of a motorcycle gang that terrorizes Florida’s West Coast. As a child, he ran away from his family and the Cherokee Indian Reservation to enter a life of crime. As an adult, he leads a multifaceted life managing his two businesses—his legitimate landscaping venture, and his loan shark and underworld dealings. Driven by anger and betrayal, Anthony begins the hunt for Christy’s father, Van Chapman, after he runs out on a loan.

Christy’s privileged life is not as it seems. She has kept painful family secrets and hidden some of her own. She’s determined to find out the truth and expose Van, but her search delivers her right into Anthony Bear’s hands, adding kidnapping to his list of crimes.

Their worlds are as contrasting as the color of their skin. The only thing they seem to have in common is their mutual disdain for Van Chapman…and each other.

They couldn’t be more wrong.

The Iron Tiara is a spin-off novel from The Minutes Trilogy. It can be read as a standalone, and does not contain a cliffhanger.

Add to your TBR - http://bit.ly/2qBYYwf

PURCHASE TODAY

➜ US Amazon: http://amzn.to/2udRULb
➜ UK Amazon: http://amzn.to/2uUkvlA
➜ CA Amazon: http://amzn.to/2sXhkrL
➜ AU Amazon: http://amzn.to/2tSd7dA
➜Nook: http://bit.ly/2ueDXNj
➜ Kobo: http://bit.ly/2t7MmlW
➜ iTunes:

ABOUT BETH FLYNN

Beth Flynn is a fiction writer who lives and works in Sapphire, North Carolina, deep within the southern Blue Ridge Mountains. Raised in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Beth and her husband, Jim, have spent the last 19 years in Sapphire, where they own a construction company. They have been married 33 years and have two daughters and a temperamental pit bull named Lady , Beth enjoys writing, reading, gardening, church and motorcycles, especially taking rides on the back of her husband’s Harley. She is a seven-year breast cancer survivor.

STALK BETH FLYNN

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/authorbethflynn

Twitter - https://twitter.com/AuthorBethFlynn

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bethflynnauthor/

Pinterest - https://www.pinterest.com/beth12870/

Website - https://www.authorbethflynn.com/about-beth

Amazon - http://amzn.to/2unJCkG

Looking For Group by Rory Harrison

Synopsis:
Dylan doesn’t have a lot of experience with comfort. His room in the falling-down Village Estates can generously be categorized as “squalid,” and he sure as hell isn’t getting any love from his mother, who seemed to—no, definitely did—enjoy the perks that went along with being the parent of a “cancer kid.”

Now that Dylan’s suddenly in remission, all he’s left with is a lingering OxyContin addiction and a hunger for something—anything—but the life he’s known.

His only escape has been in the form of his favorite video game—World of Warcraft—and the one true friend who makes him feel understood, even if it’s just online. Dylan met Arden playing Warcraft, and now he wants to take her on a real mission, one he never thought he’d live to set out on: a journey to a mysterious ship in the middle of the Salton Sea.

But Arden is fighting her own battles, ones that Dylan can’t always help her win. As they navigate their way west, they grapple with Arden’s father (who refuses to recognize his daughter’s true gender), Dylan’s addiction, and the messy, complicated romance fighting so hard to blossom through the cracks of their battle-hardened hearts.
(Synopsis from Goodreads).

My Thoughts:
I have to admit, I don't ever read the synopses for any of the books I read. I like going into books without knowing anything about them. That way, I can't get spoiled for the plot. Due to that, I thought this book was something completely different when I requested it. There's a web-comic called Looking For Group, and I thought this book was a novelization of that. It wasn't. The two have nothing to do with each other. That being said, once I started to read the book, and got over my initial disappointment about it not being what I thought it was, I did find it enjoyable. 

Typically, I'm not a big fan of the road road trip sub genre in young adult books. I find them silly, nonsensical, and unrealistic. For a book about a road trip, Looking For Group wasn't too bad. There were parts (mostly when they were going through the Midwest) where I was so bored that it was hard to concentrate. I had to force myself to push through it. Otherwise, I enjoyed the road trip, which is unusual for me.

I did love the LGBTQ+ representation in Looking For Group. I thought that Rory Harrison did a great job of writing a transgender character. She also did a great job of explaining what it means to be transgender, for those that might not know much about it. I learned a lot about transgender people from this book. I think that others will too. 

Once I got past the boring parts of Looking For Group, I found myself really enjoying the book. I will probably read more of Rory Harrison's future books when they are released. I recommend this book to anyone looking for a fun, geeky read with diverse representation. I also recommend this book to anyone who plays online mmos, like World or Warcraft, or League of Legends.

I give Looking for Group: 3/5.

Want to know more about the author?
Website: http://www.roryharrison.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/r0ryharris0n

I received this book from the publisher, via Edelweiss, in exchange for an honest review. I was in no way compensated for this review.

Georgia Peaches and Other Forbidden Fruit

Synopsis:
Joanna Gordon has been out and proud for years, but when her popular radio evangelist father remarries and decides to move all three of them from Atlanta to the more conservative Rome, Georgia, he asks Jo to do the impossible: to lie low for the rest of her senior year. And Jo reluctantly agrees.

Although it is (mostly) much easier for Jo to fit in as a straight girl, things get complicated when she meets Mary Carlson, the oh-so-tempting sister of her new friend at school. But Jo couldn’t possibly think of breaking her promise to her dad. Even if she’s starting to fall for the girl. Even if there’s a chance Mary Carlson might be interested in her, too. Right?
(Synopsis from Goodreads).

My Thoughts:
Typically I love LGBTQ+ books. I enjoy reading whatever I can about the subject. I recently read Georgia Peaches and Other Forbidden Fruit, and didn't like it at all. I thought it was a poor representation of the LGBTQ+ community. It also sends a bad message to LGBTQ+ teenagers that read it, which is the book's intended audience. 

At first, I did enjoy the book. The first couple of chapters were really good. Then the plot took a turn that I didn't like. I was not happy at all with the main character's compliance with the rules that her father set for her. It felt like the book was sending the message that you shouldn't be who you are, or tick to your values if it makes someone else uncomfortable. I thought that was a dangerous message to send to teens, most of whom are just starting to explore their own sexuality, and discover who they really are. Not cool. You should never have to hide who you really are, especially just to make someone else happy. 

Needless to say, I didn't like Georgia Peaches and Other Forbidden Fruit at all. I thought it was a terrible representation of the LGBTQ+ community. I don't think that I will be reading any of this author's other books in the future. I do not recommend this book to anyone.

I give Georgia Peaches and Other Forbidden Fruit: 1/5.

Want to know more about the author?
Website: http://www.jayerobinbrown.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jayerobinbrown/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jayerobinbrown
Pintrest: https://www.pinterest.com/CarolinaJaye/
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6577839.Jaye_Robin_Brown

I received this book from the publisher, via Edelweiss, in exchange for an honest review. I was in no way compensated for this review.

The Bookshop on the Corner by Jenny Colgan

Synopsis:

Nina Redmond is a librarian with a gift for finding the perfect book for her readers. But can she write her own happy-ever-after? In this valentine to readers, librarians, and book-lovers the world over, the New York Times-bestselling author of Little Beach Street Bakery returns with a funny, moving new novel for fans of Meg Donohue, Sophie Kinsella, and Nina George’s The Little Paris Bookshop.

Nina Redmond is a literary matchmaker. Pairing a reader with that perfect book is her passion… and also her job. Or at least it was. Until yesterday, she was a librarian in the hectic city. But now the job she loved is no more.

Determined to make a new life for herself, Nina moves to a sleepy village many miles away. There she buys a van and transforms it into a bookmobile—a mobile bookshop that she drives from neighborhood to neighborhood, changing one life after another with the power of storytelling. 

From helping her grumpy landlord deliver a lamb, to sharing picnics with a charming train conductor who serenades her with poetry, Nina discovers there’s plenty of adventure, magic, and soul in a place that’s beginning to feel like home… a place where she just might be able to write her own happy ending.

(Synopsis from Goodreads).

My Thoughts:

Every once in a while I like to take a break from the usual genres I read, and read something different. I don't usually read chick-lit. In fact, I think it's been about ten years since I've read a book in that genre. Recently, I've been wanting to read books about books. Fiction or non-fiction, it doesn't matter. Therefore, I thought that The Bookshop on the Corner sounded like it was right up my alley. It ended up being a cute, fun read. 

Even though The Bookshop on the Corner wasn't my usual genre, I really did enjoy it. It seemed like the author was bookish, and the reader could tell from the way that she wrote the main character, Nina. I found that Nina was a very identifiable main character. The author portrayed her in a way that I could see parts of her in someone like myself, which I loved. It made me believe that I can follow my dreams as well. 

There were a few things that I didn't like about the book. At times, the book was so cliche that I found myself rolling my eyes. It was also very predictable. I predicted what was going on with Marek a few short pages after meeting him. There were also a few minor plot points that I predicted. Also, the person that Nina ended up with in the end felt forced. There was absolutely no chemistry there. It felt like it happened because the author felt like Nina needed to end up with someone to have a happy ending, so she just shoved them together.

Despite all of it's flaws, I did think that The Bookshop on the Corner was an enjoyable book. I would probably pick up another book by Jenny Colgan the next time I was in the mood for this genre. I recommend this book to anyone that is in the mood for a quick, sappy read, and doesn't mind some cliche moments.

I give The Bookshop on the Corner: 3/5.

Want to know more about the author?

Website: https://www.jennycolgan.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jennycolganbooks

Twitter: https://twitter.com/JennyColgan

I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. I was in no way compensated for this review.

Island of Tory by Regina M. Geither

Synopsis:
When sixteen year old Arella Cline's summer vacation begins with the tragic death of her parents, she is sent to live with her aunt to begin a new life on a remote island off the western coast of Ireland. But there are strange things happening on Tory Island- shadow figures, mysterious auras, and the haunting sound of her deceased parents' voices. The only thing Arella finds appealing about Tory is the handsome, dark-haired Declan McQuillan. But Cannon Fidelous, a mysterious outcast, warns her that the island and its inhabitants are hiding a dark secret. And when Arella finds an ancient book of prophecies, she discovers the island's curse-a curse that only she can undo.
(Synopsis from Goodreads).

My Thoughts:
I am absolutely fascinated by Irish, and Scottish folklore, whether it's fiction or non-fiction. If someone tells me about a book of folklore from that area, I'll definitely want to read it. Therefore, I was so excited when the author of Island of Tory, Regina M. Geither, approved my request to read and review it. I found the book to be enjoyable, even though it wasn't one of my favorites I've read this year. 

I found the premise of Island of Tory to be fascinating. It was unlike anything I've ever read before. Even after finishing the book, I still felt the same way about the premise. The folklore was so in depth. Even if the story line was obviously fantasy, it was still awesome to see the monuments of Tory while reading the book, and to watch the setting come to life in my head. I was so excited when I found out that the Island of Tory actually is a real place. The book made me want to go there, and see all the locations in real life that are mentioned in the book. It was exciting to learn that one day I might actually be able to go to somewhere I read about in a fantasy book.

All that being said, I did have a couple of problems with Island of Tory. The pacing was slow. It felt almost like the plot was crawling along at a snail's pace at times. I got bored several times while reading. Every couple of chapters, it seemed like there was nothing going on, other than filler. It took me almost two weeks to read the book, which is ridiculous for a book that is less than two hundred pages. Also, the dialogue was hard to understand at times. The author writes the characters with Irish accents, which makes the reader feel like they are on the island with the characters. However, if the reader isn't used to the dialect, it makes the characters hard to understand sometimes. Several times, I had to stare at a sentence and try to figure out what the heck the character was saying, based on context. It left me feeling really confused, like I was being left out on something very important, and disengaged from the story line.

Other than those few things, I really did enjoy Island of Tory. The book is part of a trilogy, but it is in my opinion that it can be read as a stand alone. I'm going to continue with trilogy because I am excited to see where Regina M. Geither takes the world of Tory next. I recommend this book to anyone who loves folklore.

I give Island of Tory: 3.5/5.

Want to know more about the author?
Website: https://reginamgeither.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Island-of-Tory-by-Regina-M-Geither-158924204171998/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/reginamgeither
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5874354.Regina_M_Geither

I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. I was in no way compensated for this review.

The Dragon King Chronicles trilogy by Ellen Oh

Synopsis for Prophecy:
The greatest warrior in all of the Seven Kingdoms... is a girl with yellow eyes.

Kira’s the only female in the king’s army, and the prince’s bodyguard. She’s a demon slayer and an outcast, hated by nearly everyone in her home city of Hansong. And, she’s their only hope...

Murdered kings and discovered traitors point to a demon invasion, sending Kira on the run with the young prince. He may be the savior predicted in the Dragon King Prophecy, but the missing treasure of myth may be the true key. With only the guidance of the cryptic prophecy, Kira must battle demon soldiers, evil shaman, and the Demon Lord himself to find what was once lost and raise a prince into a king.

Intrigue and mystery, ancient lore and action-packed fantasy come together in this heart-stopping first book in a trilogy.
(Synopsis from Goodreads).

Synopsis for Warrior:
First an outcast, now a hero.

But her fight rages on.

Kira, the yellow-eyed demon slayer who fiercely protected her kingdom—and the crown prince—has been proclaimed the Dragon Musado of the prophecy. With the defeated the evil shaman.

But it wasn’t enough. 

Hansong is in chaos. The Demon Lord’s minions have infiltrated the city, treason is brewing among the military ranks, and Kira is buried by the overwhelming loss of her parents. She’s also plagued by the annoying feelings that blossom whenever she’s around Jaewon. But she is determined that nothing will stop her from finding the second treasure needed to fulfill the Dragon King’s prophecy. Not even the army of half-breed demons hot on their trail. If only she could learn to trust others…

Her father always said one person can change the world. Will it be Kira?
(Synopsis from Goodreads).

Synopsis for King:
Girl warrior, demon slayer, Tiger spirit of the Yellow Eyes—Kira is ready for her final quest. In this thrilling finale to the Prophecy trilogy, fans will get even more of the fierce Kira and her quest to save her kingdom!

All eyes are on her. Kira, once an outcast in her home village of Hansong, is now the only one with the power to save her kingdom. She must save her cousin, the boy fated to be the future king, uncover the third lost treasure, and face innumerable enemies in order to fulfill the famed prophecy.

Kira braves a sea of tigers and battles armies of demons as she musters her inner strength and learns to trust herself, the romantic feelings for Jaewon that are growing within her, and the destiny that must be hers.
(Synopsis from Goodreads). 

My Thoughts:
I've been hearing great things about Ellen Oh's books for years now. I've been wanting to read one for a long time. However, I wanted to wait until the hype died down so I could form my own opinion, and not be influenced by those around me. Recently, I had decided that enough time had passed, so I decided to read her Dragon King Chronicles, which consists of Prophecy, Warrior, and King. While I'm not sure it was worth all of the hype surrounding it, I did find it enjoyable. 

I did enjoy The Dragon King Chronicles. I read the whole trilogy within a few days time. I found myself flying through the books. However, it just didn't hold the magic for me that it held for others. I never found myself thinking that it was the best trilogy to come out in recent years, or anything like that. 

The first book in the trilogy, Prophecy, was really good. It was fast paced, exciting, and had me wanting more at the end. The second book, Warrior, suffered from a classic case of second book syndrome. It was still exciting, but there were several times where I was bored, and thought the story line was dragging. By the third book, King, the story line was most definitely dragging out. It felt like most of the book was filler, just to get to the final battle. There were a few plot points that I did enjoy in King, such as how things were settled. For the most part, I just wanted to fast forward to the final battle. Then the final battle was kind of disappointing. While parts of it were awesome, I was expecting so much more. 

Even though I wasn't thrilled with The Dragon King Chronicles as a whole, I did have fun reading it. I'm looking forward to reading Ellen Oh's other books, to see how her writing has matured, because this was her first series. I recommend this trilogy to teens who are looking for a fantasy read with a diverse cast of characters. Just don't go into it believing all of the hype.

I give The Dragon King Chronicles trilogy: 3.5/5.

Want to know more about the author?
Website: http://www.ellenoh.com/index2.html
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ellen.c.oh
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ElloEllenOh
Tumblr: http://elloellenoh.tumblr.com/
Pintrest: https://www.pinterest.com/elloecho/

I received this trilogy from the publisher, via Edelweiss, in exchange for an honest review. I was in no way compensated for this review.