Book Review // Meddling with Mistletoe

 

 

*hands you a cup of hot chocolate* It's time for another book review! 

Back of the book: 

Whitney Garrett is preparing to enter culinary school in the spring, but first she has to sell enough homemade pies at the local Christmas markets to pay her tuition. When her oven breaks, Whitney asks Marie Sloan, proprietor of the Red Door Inn, if she can use the inn's kitchen to keep up with her orders. Marie agrees, with a Whitney has to watch the three Sloan children and cook breakfasts for the Red Door in return.The inn is busy with holiday guests--including Aretha Franklin Sloan's perpetually single nephew Daniel and Ruby, a businesswoman in town to purchase Aretha's antiques store. Intent on making a Christmas match for the two, Aretha enlists Whitney's help in her schemes. But the deeper Whitney gets, the more she realizes that Ruby is definitely not the right woman for Daniel--and the more she thinks that she just might be his perfect match.Cuddle up for some warm holiday cheer as New York Times bestselling author Liz Johnson explores the unforeseen consequences of meddling with mistletoe when love is on the line

My Review: 

⭑⭑⭑⭑⭒

I know, I know, it's not quite fall yet, let alone winter. BUT, when I saw this review book, I knew I must give it a try. Why? Because this is a Red Door Inn Christmas Romance by Liz Johnson. I read the Prince Edward Island Dreams series--wow, was it really five years ago?!--and it was one of my favorite contemporary romances. Where Two Hearts Meet (book 2) was my favorite, so getting to hear more about these characters from the eyes of Caden's student, was pretty neat. Plus, I broke out my leggings and fall flannels today so maybe reading a Christmas book isn't *too* far fetched! 

As a designer, I must first comment on the cover. It's fun, modern, festive, and I like the usage of the red door. I'm not a huge fan of the illustration style, but I do like how it resembles the descriptions of the characters well.

Speaking of, the characters were fun. Whitney especially made a positive first impression. (On me as the reader, maybe not for Daniel, lol). She was genuine, and I love characters who are real with themselves. She had a bit of growing to do, but I liked how the author was able to use other characters to speak truth into her life. She thought she wasn't good at anything or could stick with anything. This had her pursuing a career that wasn't really her dream. Once she figured this out, she became so much more happy to pursue a purpose surrounding people, helping kids, etc. Whitney and I can relate in a couple areas, one of which being people pleasers. Poor Whitney didn't know how to say no. This put her in a sticky situation where she somehow got herself the role of matchmaker... only she couldn't help falling for the mark.

Daniel, to be honest, was a dud at first. He was uptight and boring, and grouchy. Thankfully, he realized that all that was very exhausting and having some fun was actually worth it. I like how he was able to heal from a past relationship and I also liked his flashbacks on the lists his mother had taught him with. He did not lack manners or kindness. (I liked his attempts at interacting with Julia Mae). The kids were another fun aspect of this Christmas-y story. Kids in books always lighten the mood because they can say the funniest things. 

The plot itself lacked a little bit of creativity. This book read similar to a Hallmark in this way. There was everything a cozy Christmas book or movie would need: Christmas decor, sledding, Christmas lights, paper snowflakes, and copious talk of pies and the scent of cinnamon. There was also the typical scenes that I've come to associate with cheesy hallmarks such as falling off a chair into the male characters arms, or *rolls eyes* the typical accidentally being caught under the mistletoe, and then of course you have the sledding scene. All those things can be a bit too predictable if you ask me, but I suppose if you are in the right mood, they are cutesy sweet moments too. 

In the end, the big misunderstanding wasn't so big and the two realized how much they meant to each other. It was a nice ending and I enjoyed this book overall! I'd recommend this book to anyone who likes a bit of cheesy romance, small town vibes, and a sweet Christmas story with some depth! 

What Christmas books are you planning to read this year? 

What is your favorite flavor of pie? 

Blessings, 

Brooklyne Elysse

Book Review // Between the Sound and Sea

 

Book Review Time!! I hope everyone is having a good summer, I have been able to get a fair amount of reading in over my summer break, so I am excited to share another review!

About the book: 

Every family has its secrets. Josephina Harris wouldn't mind if her family still had a few of their own after a lawsuit tarnishes their name. When an opportunity opens to become a temporary keeper of a decommissioned lighthouse on a North Carolina island, she jumps at the chance to escape her small town to oversee its restoration.

As the work begins, "Joey" discovers strange notes tucked deep in the crevices of the old stone walls--pages torn from a lighthouse keeper's log signed by someone named Mae who recounts harrowing rescues at sea. Fascinated by a woman lighthouse keeper, Joey digs into the past only to discover there's never been a record of a lighthouse keeper by that name.

When things start to go amiss on the island, locals are convinced that it is the ghost of the lighthouse keeper and his daughter who were lost at sea during World War II. As Joey sifts through decades of rumors and legends and puts together the pieces of the past, what emerges is a love story--one that's not over yet.

Multiple Christy Award winner Amanda Cox is your guide upon the raging seas of young love, heartbreaking loss, and learning to risk it all for a chance at happiness in this timeless novel.

About the Author: 

Amanda Cox is the author of The Edge of Belonging and The Secret Keepers of Old Depot Grocery, both of which were the Christy Award Book of the Year in 2021 and 2022, respectively. She holds a bachelor's degree in Bible and theology and a master's degree in professional counseling, but her first love is communicating through story. Her studies and her interactions with hurting families over a decade have allowed her to create multidimensional characters that connect emotionally with readers. She lives in the foothills of Tennesee with her husband and their three children.

My review: 

⭑⭑⭑⭑⭒ 3.5 stars! 

There are some books that would make good movies, and this would be one of them. As a designer, I first must comment on the aesthetic of the cover design. Well done! *applauds* I love the blues and how the title and elements surrounding it are glossy. I would have liked to see more elements from the story, like a twisted tree, a boat, or tools for lighthouse renovations. But I also feel like this cover has a modern, coastal feel which makes this book something I'd love to be caught reading poolside or by the ocean. 

Things I loved: I loved the themes of healing and making amends with family members. I also loved how the main character learned that her ideal plan (starting her event planning business) may not have been the path for her to take in the end. God's plans are often higher even if we think we know what we want our lives to look like. I liked the flashbacks and storytelling from a past generation, this element was probably my favorite. I was super curious as to Cay's story and I was glad all loose ends were tied up in the end! Another thing I liked about this book was the age range. So often in fiction, the age of the the characters is either all young people, or all adults. This book had both young characters, and elderly characters. Which made for lots of life lessons passed down. I also enjoyed learning more about the scenery, location, and history of North Carolina. 

Things I didn't care for: The characters. *hides* For some reason, I didn't connect with any of the characters. Because of this, I wasn't invested and it felt like more of a light read or reading the script of a Hallmark movie. At first, I liked reading all the miscommunications of the "enemies to lovers" trope, but then it was a switch and they were friends. Joey seemed nice, and I could relate with her planning tendencies, but other than that, we didn't have much in common. And I didn't care for Finn at all. I liked how Walt was stubborn, this was endearing. But the love story between Joey and Finn fell flat. I was more interested in what occurred with the lighthouse years ago than the current story for Joey and Finn. The storyline also felt like there was no real direction. And the climax was more about finding the truth and closing out loose ends. 

Although I wouldn't need to reread this story, I did enjoy it as a summer read. I'd definitely recommend this story to anyone who likes contemporary fiction with a dash of mystery from the past. Oh! And lighthouse renovation projects!  

Comment below! What was the last book you read that had a blue cover? 

Blessings, 

Brooklyne Elysse 

Book Review // Until Our Time Comes

 

Book Review // Until Our Time Comes 

Back of the book: 

American horse trainer Adia Kensington is living her dream of working at the famous Janów Podlaski stables in Poland, where they breed the best Arabian horses in the world. But her plans to bring the priceless stallion Lubor to the US are derailed when the German army storms into her adopted country in 1939. Little does she know this is just the beginning of six long years of occupation that will threaten her beloved horses at every turn.

Major Bret Conway is at Janów Podlaski under the guise of a news reporter, but his true mission is intelligence gathering for the British. That and keeping Adia safe, which is harder and harder to do as she insists they must evacuate 250 horses to save them from being stolen, sold, or eaten by the invading forces. What follows will test their physical, mental, and emotional strength, as well as their faith in God, humankind, and each other.

Drawn from true events of World War II, this epic story of escape, capture, resistance, and love from debut novelist Nicole M. Miller will thunder into your heart like a herd of beautiful horses across a raging river.

My review:

⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑

4.5 stars! 

In her debut book, Until Our Time Comes, Nicole M. Miller captures two of my favorite things to talk about: Horses and WW2 Christian Fiction. This is a story filled with adventure, close calls, and well-written characters. 

Adia Kensington had grit and a stubborn streak that gave her a unique advantage in her field of work. As an American horse trainer living in Poland, she demanded a level of respect and this confidence helped her later on when her job held a higher level of risk. I admire how she saw the good in people when others quickly judged them based on their rank or outward appearance. Adia knew how to work with many different people coming from different backgrounds. And she always kept her goal in the forefront. She never wavered from her life's calling and devotion to the Arabian horse breed. I especially loved this because our first horse was an Arabian, so they hold a special place in my heart. Arabian horses are spunky, spirited, and so loyal! 

Bret Conway, (or shall I call him Asia's Casanova *winks*) was a complex character. He played many roles and he seemed to be good at all of them. Olympic horseman, check. British intelligence, check. Adia's personal bodyguard, check. Fearless soldier, check. Throughout the whole book, he carried a heavy weight. Without sharing too many spoilers, it had to do with the death of his brother-in-law. I was glad he was able to make amends with his sister, although the accident could have been explained more in the beginning. 

The setting at Janów Podlaski stables was perfectly described and had me picturing vast pastures, and a large operation for breeding. It was Adia's haven, although, that haven was interrupted... twice. Again, I can't share too many spoilers! 

One thing I noticed about this book was the steady stream of excitement, adventure, and drama. Most books I read will start slow to build the plot and then reach an exciting plot twist or climax. This book had lots of events taking place, making it a fairly quick read. I also adore the cover! 

One area that I would have liked to have changed was the amount of Ewan content. We needed more Ewan!! The little Myszko (mouse) was always up to mischief and pickpocketing. His role in Adia's life was so sweet and I was sad to see him taken out of the picture for a time. Although, just wait for the ending! *smiles* 

I wasn't expecting this book to fan out over the course of 7ish years, so that make some of it feel a bit choppy due to the speed and not being able to fill in those missing years. I also didn't care for killing off one of the characters (I won't say which one) but due to it being a WW2 novel, I can understand the author making it more true to that time in history. 

Other than a couple nitpicks, this book was an exciting adventure and a wonderful debut novel by Nicole Miller! I was thrilled to have gotten the chance to read and review his copy! Thanks Revell! 

I also got to read this book by the lake which was a highlight of my summer thus far! 

Lainey came too! :)

What has been your top summer read? 

Have you read Until Our Time Comes? 

Comment below!

Blessings, 

Brooklyne Elysse

Book Review / The Elusive Truth of Lily Temple

Hi internet world! I have another blogger book review for ya! 

Back of the book: 

"Peter Driscoll, an underground investigator to the wealthy, has never met anyone like Lily Temple. The beautiful silent-film actress spins fairy tales and plays frivolous roles in front of the cine-camera, but beneath the costumes and stage makeup is a woman with a quick wit--and a murky past.

Peter has been tasked with locating the legendary Briarwood Teardrop, an exquisite sapphire, which Lily wears beneath her gown. In order to stay close to her and hopefully unravel the mystery of her story--and the sapphire--Peter employs Lily's help on a case, which leads to a useful partnership. But as they are investigating together, Peter is also investigating Lily. The closer he gets to the truth, the more danger they face. And the closer he gets to Lily, the clearer it is that he needs her even more than she needs him.

Award-winning author Joanna Davidson Politano whisks you away to Edwardian England in 1903 for a whimsical and layered tale that treads the crooked line between real and make-believe."

My Review: 

⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑

4.5 stars! 

This book surprised me with how much I liked it. I wouldn't say its my typical favorite genre... It is historical, yes, but it had a level of whimsy and fairytale-ness that it almost needs its own category. That being said, I must confess something... I haven't read or watched many fairytales. I've heard the names of the classics, and I know roughly what they are about. But to give you some context, I had really no clue what the hints were for the various fairytales mentioned through quotes at the beginning of the chapters and the ones the characters referenced. Knowing about them may have helped me understand a bit more. I got the gist though, so that's what matters! 

I loved the overall quality of writing style. I must say, these words and descriptions were beautifully penned. So much so that I collected my favorite quotes along the way. I'll share those at the bottom of this review. I liked the setting in a garden, although this part did seem a little far fetched, thinking the garden was somehow special or magical (same with the necklace). On one hand, I can see the beauty that Lily Temple saw, as I also love nature and being out in the "garden." 

The characters were fun, Lily made me smile and Peter was Peter. I think he would be considered a cinnamon roll among literary fangirls. Even though they were nothing alike, their romance didn't seem forced, it was so cool to see their story come full circle at the end. (I also love how this book started and then jumped back, then finished where it started).

This book had a short cast of characters, we didn't get to know many other characters, but the two MC's lives did cross with at least 3 people's stories. I liked the mystery aspect! I didn't really have a favorite side character and I usually do. 

Overall, this was a fun read, full of beautiful descriptions, deep themes disguised in fairytale lingo, and likable characters, one of which had many tricks up her sleeve!

My favorite quotes: 

"We are all of us a combination of romance novels, humorous tales, and tragedies, depending on what angle we show the world”

“Some called him ineffectual and bookish, silent and lacking in might, but only because they didn’t know what real strength looked like or from whence it came.”

“Regret was a poison that never left the bloodstream”

“In my experience, a woman’s intuition is seldom wrong and never unfounded.”

“It’s a pity and a blessing that we cannot see the future until it is the present.”  

What was your most recent read? 

Blessings, 

bRoOkLyNe :)

Hi! It's a book review // Just for the Summer

HELLO ALL WHO READ BOOK REVIEWS! 

Bookworms, friends, all who enjoy reading, this post may be for you! But if not, that's okay, I shall just talk to myself about this summery read. When yours truly gets a free book in the mail, I try my hardest to be a "good reviewer" and actually write a review when I'm done. So that is what this is, me holding up my end of the bargain! (*wink wink* also it's nice to just type out a post for this blog too, this little corner of the internet has so many happy memories for me. Even tho my life has changed a bunch... I still wish to someday start another blog of sorts.) 

Anywho! On to the review! 

Just for the Summer: 

⭑⭑⭑⭑⭒

This book was fun, lighthearted, and perfect for entertainment on a lazy day. The characters were enjoyable, and I especially liked Ginny and her genuine heart. Jacqueline, on the other hand, rubbed me the wrong way. But I'm glad the author decided to turn her story into a life lesson for the readers. 

The setting was fun, I pictured the beautiful outdoors of Idaho, rushing white water, and craggy rocks and thick forests! I'm definitely a country girl so I couldn't relate with Jacqueline at all. I liked the small-town community found at the lodge. I also liked Jack, he was that typical old grouch with a soft heart.

The one thing I didn't like was the romance. Both romances were pretty shallow, and I was unconvinced at the end that they were truly in love. Lol, but for a light summer read, I'd say I enjoyed hearing about the job swap idea. It kinda read like a hallmark. 

The cover is cute and contemporary, it matches the genre really well! 

If you enjoy small-town community, friendships, and a little bit of girl drama, then I'd give Just for the Summer a try! 

About the book: 

Ginny Masters manages a popular boutique hotel in Seattle and manages it with aplomb. But the daily challenges and irritations of a fast-paced job and a demanding boss are starting to get to her. Jacqueline Potter manages her grandfather's fishing lodge in Idaho because it was the only job she could find after graduating with her hospitality degree. She's grateful for the work but longs for a more sophisticated and cosmopolitan life she's just not going to find in this backwoods town.

The solution to both their problems seems obvious. Just for the summer, they'll swap jobs and lifestyles. But they never anticipated swapping love interests . . .

In this fabulous new twist on an age-old fable, award-winning and bestselling author Melody Carlson introduces you to two career-focused women who are about to discover that there's more to finding happiness than just switching up the scenery.

These rainy pictures go well with the Seattle side of this book! 

Does this book sound interesting to you? Have you read any good summer books this year?

 

The Warsaw Sisters // Book Review

Another review book review! 

⭑⭑⭑⭒⭒

Heartbreaking, impactful, and a difficult read. 

One one hand, for history buffs, this is a 5 star book. The writing style is like poetry: deep and moving. The descriptions so real I ‘bout cried multiple times. The characters determined and realistic, with faults and character flaws.

On the other hand, for sensitive readers, this is a 0 star book. History must be remembered but this book is too painful for those with soft hearts like mine. 

These characters faced things that I would have never imagined… yet to think that stuff like this was real, it breaks my heart. 

I enjoy reading about those dedicated to fight for freedom in WW2, yet I have never read a book so raw and sad. Revealing such heartbreaks and trials of those in Poland. Despite this, the bravery of those who tried to stand for freedom, it’s inspiring. These fictional characters stood in place of real people that lived, fought, and died for a cause. 

Truthfully, I almost did not finish this book. But I had to know how it ended. I had to know what happened and if there was hope. The last couple chapters did offer a sliver of hope in them. But the ending was bittersweet and solemn. 

This was not a light read. It was heavy. The plot itself was complicated, with a timeline of about 5 years worth. It was well-planned and plotted. The writing style was amazing. Deep, insightful, and poetic. It was a story of sisterhood, loss, and human resilience. A story of love and the loss of loved ones. 

Unfortunately, I cannot recommend this to my friends. The descriptions were too real for me to want to share this story. However, I do think that this book was good for what it was advertised as. It’s just not for the sensitive heart.

I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving weekend! What are you reading? 

 

Against the Wind // Book Review

Hey blogosphere! I'm back with another book review for ya! 

About the book: 

Doctor-in-training Louisa Vaughn has no intention of remaining in Sweetwater Crossing. She's just there for a few days to help a friend. But she can't abandon the injured man she finds at the side of the road. Until his broken leg heals, she'll serve as the town's doctor and midwife. She may not be fully qualified yet, but surely she's better than nothing.

Josh Porter's plans to win his grandfather's challenge and fulfill his father's final wish to gain full control of the family business hit a roadblock when he breaks his leg. But his enforced stay in Sweetwater Crossing gives him new ideas about the expansion of the company into new territory—ideas Louisa could help turn into reality. 

If only the town were more accepting of Louisa's talents! Someone is determined to convince her to abandon her dream of healing others. Can Josh help her uncover the person behind the threats before it's too late? And is there any future for them together when neither of them plans to stay?

My review: 

★★☆☆☆ 

Two stars. 

When I saw this beautiful blue cover, I knew I had to give this book a try! And after finding out this was a book about a doctor in training, I thought it might have some Dr. Quinn vibes. 

Against the Wind was a sweet story, one that I would have liked more if I would have read the first book in the series. Because I hadn't, I felt like I was missing some important pieces to the sisters' stories. I also did not relate with the characters, they didn't seem to resonate with me. The writing style didn't grab my attention either. 

Although this story did not live up to my expectation, I did enjoy the small-town community of Sweetwater Crossing. It's always fun to read about small western communities and how they used to operate. The climax to this story picked up a bit, but other than that, this book was pretty slow. 

I love the cover. And I did like that the characters showed courage because they each chose to be entrepreneurs in a time where following the safe path was expected of them. 

What was the last book you gave 2 stars to? 

Have you ever read anything by this author?