Review: A Charlie Brown Christmas by Charles M. Schulz

A Charlie Brown Christmas by Charles M. Schulz
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

In the festive atmosphere of Christmas, Charlie Brown finds himself lacking the holiday spirit while everyone around him embraces the joy of the season. It appears that the true meaning of Christmas has been forgotten by those around him. However, with the help of Lucy, Linus, and the rest of the lovable Peanuts gang, some delightful holiday surprises are in store. Through their heartwarming gestures, they bring cheer and merriment that even touch Charlie Brown's heart, reminding him of the true essence of Christmas. Join the Peanuts gang as they spread holiday joy and rediscover the magic of this special time of year.

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Review: Dark Obsession by Amanda Stevens

Dark Obsession by Amanda Stevens
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Eric Ramsey, a horror novelist, is devastated when her sister is found murdered by a mysterious stranger. Determined to seek justice, she teams up with Detective Nick Slade, an alluring and mysterious man. As they delve deeper into the investigation, Eric is lured into a world of midnight fantasies and hidden secrets, blurring the line between reality and eroticism.

The story was decent, although the identities of the characters were easily discernible from the start. The interaction between the main characters was enjoyable, but the narrative suffered from some repetitive elements that became tiresome. Nonetheless, the overall concept of the story was intriguing.

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Review: It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown by Charles M. Schulz

It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown by Charles M. Schulz
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

In this special 35th-anniversary tie-in to the beloved Peanuts television special, we witness a classic tale featuring Linus and his unwavering belief in the Great Pumpkin. Linus makes the bold decision to forgo trick-or-treating on Halloween and instead waits patiently in the pumpkin patch, hoping for the mythical arrival of the Great Pumpkin.

Adapted for the first time in decades, this heartwarming story captures the essence of Linus' endearing faith and his anticipation of a magical Halloween experience. Join Linus on his whimsical journey as he holds onto his belief in the Great Pumpkin, creating a charming and nostalgic atmosphere for readers of all ages.

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Review: His Dark Kiss by Eve Silver

His Dark Kiss by Eve Silver
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Within the ancient walls of Manorbrier Castle, a haunting desire envelops Emma Parrish. Undeterred by rumors of madness and murder, she boldly accepts the position of governess to Lord Anthony Craven's son, despite the castle's foreboding atmosphere. As Emma explores the castle's depths, she becomes aware of unseen eyes watching her and eerie laughter that echoes through its halls. She is also drawn irresistibly to the enigmatic Lord Craven, despite the warnings and shadows that surround him.

Lord Anthony harbors dark secrets within the forbidden Round Tower of the estate. Mysterious lights flicker at night, and whispers of impending death circulate among the servants. He cautions Emma that his embrace holds danger, even as she finds herself irresistibly drawn to him.

As Emma succumbs to the seductive allure of Lord Craven, she cannot escape the whisper of evil that emanates from his hidden past. The deeper their connection grows, the more she is entangled in the web of darkness that surrounds him.

I found it to be overly dramatic and weighed down with excessive inner thoughts. The instant love between the characters lacked genuine chemistry, which left me wanting more development in their relationship. I didn't connect with the hero, Lord Anthony, as his secretive nature seemed more like an attempt to appear sinister rather than intriguing. While Emma eventually falls deeply in love with him, I struggled to buy into their connection when it initially happened in the story. The focus on the mystery would have made it more compelling.

I did enjoy aspects of the book, particularly the lighter approach to the Gothic elements. Both the hero and the heroine are tormented souls, and the eerie tower on the estate added an intriguing element. One highlight for me was Emma's character, who displayed compassion, directness, and intelligence without being frustratingly naive.

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Review: Five Little Pumpkins by Dan Yaccarino

Five Little Pumpkins by Dan Yaccarino
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Join the mischievous adventure of five little pumpkins perched on a gate as they come to life in this delightful rhyme. With each passing moment, the pumpkins bring excitement and laughter to young readers. Vibrant illustrations by Dan Yaccarino add personality and charm to these playful pumpkins. Get ready to roll with laughter as these spirited pumpkins take you on a wickedly fun journey that toddlers will want to experience again and again.

This delightful rhyming song is a simple and brief read, with an added counting element that adds to the fun. Yaccarino's artwork shines in this book, providing an enjoyable visual experience. While it may be a short read-aloud, it is sure to entertain the youngest children and leave them wanting more.

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Review: Big Pumpkin by Erica Silverman

Big Pumpkin by Erica Silverman
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

In this charming Halloween picture book, a clever little bat takes center stage, showcasing the power of wit and ingenuity over mere strength.

The story revolves around a witch who has grown an enormous pumpkin, intending to use it for a Halloween pumpkin pie. However, the pumpkin proves to be too large for the witch, as well as for other spooky creatures like the ghost, vampire, and mummy. It seems that the Halloween festivities will be without their anticipated pumpkin pie.

But fear not, for in swoops the tiny bat, armed with a brilliant plan to save the day. How can such a small creature succeed where larger and stronger beings have failed? Prepare to be pleasantly surprised as the bat's cleverness and resourcefulness unfold in this delightful tale.

This not-so-scary Halloween picture book celebrates the idea that size and strength aren't the only factors for accomplishing tasks. With its delightful storyline and endearing characters, it is sure to capture the hearts of both children and adults alike. Get ready to be charmed by the bat's ingenuity and enjoy a heartwarming Halloween adventure.

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Review: A Whisper on the Wind by Joan Smith

A Whisper on the Wind by Joan Smith
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Rosalie falls in love with the charming Fraser Audry, who sweeps her off her feet with his good looks, charm, and extravagant gifts. They have a whirlwind courtship and a beautiful wedding in Paris. However, upon returning to England, Rosalie begins to feel that something is amiss. Strangers treat her like an old friend, and a man she doesn't recognize brings up a shared past. Rosalie becomes increasingly fearful as she follows false leads and encounters strange occurrences. Despite seeking solace in her husband's arms, a mysterious warning urges her not to trust her own heart.

This tale, brimming with suspense and uncertainty, will captivate you from the very first page. The author masterfully weaves an intricate tapestry of mystery, romance, and Gothic elements, keeping you on the edge of your seat until the final, jaw-dropping revelation.

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ARC Review: A Teenage Girl in Auschwitz: Basha Freilich and the Will to Live

A Teenage Girl in Auschwitz: Basha Freilich and the Will to Live by Douglas Wellman
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

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Note: I received an advanced copy of this book from BQB Publishing via NetGalley.

In January 1943, young Basha Anush, just fourteen years old, and her family endured the harrowing experience of being forcibly taken from their Pruzhany, Poland home by Nazi soldiers, then transported to the notorious Auschwitz concentration camp. Tragically, within a matter of days, five members of her family succumbed to the horrors of the camp, leaving Basha to face two-and-a-half years of unimaginable abuse, a grueling death march into Germany, and months of wandering alongside other displaced girls as the Third Reich crumbled. Remarkably, throughout this ordeal, she held fast to a last-minute promise she made to herself: to survive and share her story with the world.

This memoir is an unflinching account of one young girl's indomitable spirit amid humanity's darkest hours. Basha Anush's storytelling is a testament to the human capacity for hope and strength in the direst of circumstances. This book is a profoundly moving and thought-provoking narrative that reminds us of the resilience of the human spirit and the power of a promise kept.

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Review: Taken by the Night by Kathryn Smith

Taken by the Night by Kathryn Smith
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

In this paranormal romance, a centuries-old vampire finds himself drawn into a dangerous investigation at a renowned London brothel. The protagonist, who has learned to avoid emotional entanglements, becomes enticed by Ivy, the daughter of the establishment's infamous Madam. Despite his reservations, he is unable to resist her charms. As they delve deeper into the mystery surrounding the murders of Ivy's friends, their passionate connection intensifies. However, their budding relationship is threatened by a formidable evil that surpasses even the power of the undead.

Despite the promising premise and unique take on the Jack the Ripper case, this book still falls short of the first one. The lack of chemistry between the main characters, Saint and Ivy, hinders the development of their romantic relationship. Moreover, the discomfort arises from an immortal vampire being sexually drawn to a woman he has known since childhood. The story's predictability further detracts from its overall impact, although it does offer a fair share of steamy scenes. While it may not live up to expectations, readers seeking explicit content may find some enjoyment in the book.

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Review: Night of the Huntress by Kathryn Smith

Night of the Huntress by Kathryn Smith
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

In this vampire-themed story, Bishop, a vampire of 700 years, longs for a peaceful existence. However, convincing humans that vampires are not monsters proves to be a challenging task, especially with the presence of vampire hunters like The Reaper. Marika, who believes a vampire killed her mother, leads a group determined to eradicate these creatures. Unbeknownst to everyone, Marika herself is half-vampire. In her quest for vengeance, she captures Bishop, hoping he can lead her to the vampire responsible for her mother's death. As Bishop remains in captivity, secrets about Marika's past unravel, challenging her beliefs. Together, Marika and Bishop must confront their shared enemies while also facing the truth of their love. The story delves into their race against time for survival and the discovery of their intertwined destinies.

I found the second installment of the series to be somewhat underwhelming compared to the first. The main characters, Marika and Bishop, didn't resonate with me as much, and the overall storyline fell short of my expectations. While the author attempted to create a balance of vulnerability and strength in Marika, it didn't quite come together convincingly. Similarly, Bishop's portrayal as a warrior lacked distinct qualities that set him apart from the protagonist in the previous book. I still plan to continue with the series.

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ARC Review: The Wedding Guest by Kathryn Croft

The Wedding Guest by Kathryn Croft
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Note: I received an advanced copy of this book from Bookouture via NetGalley.

In the midst of the anticipation surrounding her impending marriage, Emily harbors a truth that threatens to upend the life she's about to commit to. When an unexpected presence among her cherished guests, seated amidst those who hold her dearest, this uninvited figure possesses knowledge of a harrowing event that transpired a decade ago. This person, who seems determined to deny her any happiness, holds the power to expose her deepest secrets. The realization dawns that her past, no matter how fervently she tries to escape it, continues to haunt her.

The question is how to thwart an adversary who appears relentless in their mission to dismantle the life she's worked so hard to construct. And in the face of this relentless pursuit, she must grapple with the lengths she's willing to go to safeguard her carefully guarded secrets.

I found the initial sections of the book far more engaging than its conclusion, particularly in regard to Emily's interactions with Jeremy and Lexi. As the narrative progressed towards its finale, I noticed a sense of rushed pacing, and the ending struck me as somewhat strange.

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Review: Captives of the Night (Scoundrels, #2) by Loretta Chase

Captives of the Night by Loretta Chase
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Leila Beaumont has been living her life as she sees fit. Her husband is worthless but with him she is able to get by and she allows him to partake of his own pleasures. But with the appearance of the Comte d'Esmond her life is once again thrown into chaos.

I do like a book where a villain can become a hero. The story once again started off slow in my opinion and didn't really get going until a ways through. I thought the story from the first book in the series was more captivating than this one but I did like the characters a lot more. They seemed fuller and more developed.

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Review: Arise by Tara Hudson

Arise by Tara Hudson
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Amelia finds herself in a dangerous situation as dark spirits pose a threat to her loved ones. Determined to protect them, she resolves to take action. Meanwhile, Joshua, with his own motivations, agrees to meet Amelia at a cemetery in New Orleans. Together, they plan to partake in a significant ritual within the Voodoo Circle, fully aware that this decision will have lasting and transformative consequences.

While I found some aspects of the book engaging, it didn't quite live up to my expectations. One aspect that I appreciated was the continuation of the paranormal elements and the exploration of the ghostly world. The concept of ghostly abilities and the interaction between the living and the dead were intriguing and added depth to the story. The author's descriptive writing style helped to create a vivid atmosphere, immersing me in the supernatural world.

However, I felt that the pacing was inconsistent throughout the book. At times, the story moved at a slow pace, making it difficult to stay fully engaged. Additionally, I found some plot developments to be predictable, which diminished the element of surprise. I had hoped for more twists and turns to keep me on the edge of my seat.

Character development was another aspect that left me wanting more. While some characters showed growth and had compelling arcs, others felt underdeveloped and lacked depth. I would have liked to see more exploration of their motivations and inner struggles.

Despite its flaws, the book still provided an entertaining read.

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Review: Haveli by Suzanne Fisher Staples

Haveli by Suzanne Fisher Staples
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

In this powerful novel, we follow the courageous journey of Shabanu, a young Pakistani woman, as she confronts the oppressive grip of societal customs and ancient laws. At the age of 18 and a mother, Shabanu must navigate the complexities of her husband's household, constantly facing obstacles that threaten her position and autonomy. As she dreams of a better future for her daughter, she finds herself entangled in a forbidden love with Omar, defying the traditions that seek to separate them. Amidst the challenges and complexities, Shabanu's unwavering determination and love push her to defy societal expectations and fight for her own happiness.

I was so intrigued by the first book that despite not having to read it in middle school, like the first one, I wanted to continue on with the story. By the end, I liked the book a lot more than I had at the beginning.

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Review: Crescendo (Hush, Hush, #2) by Becca Fitzpatrick

Crescendo by Becca Fitzpatrick
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

In Nora Grey's life, challenges persist despite her encounter with a guardian angel who saved her from danger. Patch, her enigmatic and attractive guardian angel, has been behaving strangely, growing more elusive and spending time with her nemesis, Marcie Millar. As Nora tries to make sense of Patch's distant behavior, the return of Scott Parnell, an old family friend, further complicates her emotions. Although Scott's infuriating attitude draws her in, she can't shake the feeling that he's hiding something.

Haunted by visions of her deceased father, Nora begins to question whether her Nephilim heritage played a role in his murder. Determined to uncover the truth, she risks her safety by delving into dangerous situations. However, as she gets closer to the truth, she realizes that some secrets are best left buried, as they have the power to destroy everything and everyone she holds dear.

I did find the story entertaining with the progression of the facts. Other than that the story did not really do anything for me.  This book did not intrigue me as much as the first one. I felt myself just being annoyed with all of the characters. Nora was her usual whiny self with an annoying attitude and a self-serving attitude. Patch just pissed me off from the beginning I wanted to okay his reasons but he was just a jerk throughout everything. No one communicates with one another and they all just make everything worse for everyone in the long run. If Patch and Nora would actually talk to each other many of their problems really wouldn't be an issue.

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Review: Shabanu: Daughter of the Wind by Suzanne Fisher Staples

Shabanu: Daughter of the Wind by Suzanne Fisher Staples
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

"Shabanu" is a captivating novel that portrays the contrasting aspects of life experienced by the determined and independent young protagonist, Shabanu, in the Cholistan Desert of Pakistan. As the second daughter in a family without sons, Shabanu enjoys certain liberties uncommon for Muslim girls. However, when a devastating incident involving a wealthy landowner disrupts her sister's marriage prospects, Shabanu is faced with a difficult choice: to uphold her family's honor or follow the desires of her own heart. The novel explores themes of sacrifice, tradition, and individuality in a thought-provoking manner.

During my middle school years, I came across this captivating book that delved into the restrictions imposed on girls, which greatly fascinated me. "Shabanu" presented a unique narrative that I hadn't encountered before, offering an intriguing perspective. However, there were instances where I felt the story progressed too quickly, leaving me wanting more depth and exploration. Nonetheless, it was an engaging read that shed light on the limitations faced by young girls and provided an unforgettable reading experience.

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Review: Catch Me If You Can: The True Story of a Real Fake by Frank W. Abagnale

Catch Me If You Can: The True Story of a Real Fake by Frank W. Abagnale
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Frank W. Abagnale, known by various aliases such as Frank Williams, Robert Conrad, Frank Adams, and Robert Monjo, earned a reputation as one of history's boldest con men, forgers, impostors, and escape artists. Despite his short-lived yet infamous career, Abagnale accomplished remarkable feats. He assumed the identity of a pilot, co-piloting a Pan Am jet, posed as a supervising hospital resident, practiced law without a license, impersonated a college sociology professor, and successfully cashed forged checks totaling over $2.5 million, all before the age of 21.

Dubbed "The Skywayman" by law enforcement in 26 foreign countries and all 50 US states, Abagnale led a lavish life while constantly evading capture. However, his luck eventually ran out, and he was apprehended by the authorities. Today, Abagnale is recognized as America's foremost expert on financial fraud. Despite his criminal past, he is a charismatic rogue whose extraordinary and often amusing international escapades.

I thought this book had a good concept and I liked the author's writing style. The story plotline as a whole kept me entertained and interested while the characters were catchy.

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Review: Return to Bloodstone House by Jane Toombs

Return to Bloodstone House by Jane Toombs
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Valora Rolland returns to her family's ancestral manor and confronts the dark secrets of the past. She must face Luis Redhawk, a man with ancient and modern powers who has both drawn her and terrified her. As Valora delves into the mysteries of the Black Mountain and the evil that has been awakened, she discovers the connection between Luis and the dark force that threatens to unleash its power once more on Mount Sangre.

I enjoyed the balanced mix of romance and intrigue in this book. While it delivered on the romance aspect, I wish there had been more depth and exploration of the historical elements. However, one downside was the lack of subtlety in identifying the villain, which made it frustrating to see the heroine interacting with him despite the obvious warning signs.

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Review: The Cold King by Amber Jaeger

The Cold King by Amber Jaeger
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Calia Thorn has lived her entire life in a small town sheltered by the Cold King’s mountain. Working day and night to care for her younger siblings, complete her unending chores and please her selfish, lazy mother has left her with few dreams for her own future. But then even those meager hopes are taken from her when the Cold King comes down from his mountain to demand a new servant. Ungraceful, unladylike, undesired and unwanted by even her own family, Calia is chosen to be sent to the palace. The Cold King has lived for three hundred years under a curse imposed by his own father. With no hope of ever breaking it, he settles for keeping his heart frozen against any pain— or hope.
When his new servant arrives, she challenges him in ways no one ever has and sparks fly. But not every Beast is a prince charming at heart and not every beauty is a maiden just waiting for love.

The storyline was okay for a quick read. The characters were not overly developed and the reader did not really get much out of them or their backstories. I would recommend it for a quick beach read but I have read a lot better adaptations of the Beauty and the Beast trope.

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Review: Amber House by Kelly Moore

Amber House by Kelly Moore
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

3.5 stars

Sarah Parsons inherits Amber House, her family's ancestral estate in Maryland, upon her grandmother's passing. Intrigued by the legends surrounding the house and the hidden diamonds within its walls, Sarah embarks on a quest with her friend Jackson to uncover its mysteries. To her surprise, the house comes alive, granting her visions of its past and the people who have inhabited it.

As Sarah delves deeper into the history of Amber House, she forms connections with both Jackson and Richard Hathaway, a young man whose family shares a tangled history with her own. However, as her supernatural visions intensify, they begin to pose a threat to someone she deeply cares about. Determined to protect her loved ones, Sarah must unravel the secrets of Amber House and alter the course of history before it becomes irrevocable.

This book was a mixed bag for me. While I didn't despise it, I also didn't fall head over heels in love with it. One aspect that bothered me was the inclusion of a love triangle, which seemed to divert attention from the main plot. The ending, however, was decent. I appreciated the fact that the characters were able to alter their circumstances and create a different life for themselves. It provided a satisfying conclusion to the story.

Overall, this book had its ups and downs. Although it didn't completely win me over, I found some aspects enjoyable, particularly the positive changes the characters experienced in the end.

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