Thursday, February 28, 2019

Crazy on You - DNF Review

Crazy on You (Love and Harmony, # 3)

By: Crystal B. Bright

Publication: February 12th 2019 by Lyrical Shine

pages

Genre: New Adult, Contemporary

Source: Publisher via NetGalley (Thank you!!)

( Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository )

*Note: The above links to Amazon and Book Depository are affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--Shut out the noise and listen to your heart . . .

Worse than a one-hit wonder, Tassia Hogan is a one-line wonder. Infamous for a memorable, extremely provocative verse, her music career is going nowhere. Finding a decent man to date has also proven fruitless . . . they all think she’s as wanton as those lyrics. But now her label is offering Tassia the chance to shine—with a catch. The album is duets. Her partner is a Country Western singer. And he’s just as reluctant to agree as she is.

Hyde Love has been in the music business since he was eleven, and he’s becoming more and more disenchanted with it. Collaborating on an album seems great in theory, but Tassia is an R&B singer. Melding their sounds and personalities will be difficult—though not as tough as keeping things strictly business. Getting involved with his partner could prove career-wrecking, yet discovering the real Tassia could be earth-shattering.

I picked up Crazy on You because it reminded me of another book I recently read (You'd Be Mine, review coming soon) which also features two musicians who are thrown together and forced to collaborate. I enjoyed that book so much that even the hint of something similar was worth checking out. I felt like the premise of Crazy on You had so much potential.

Unfortunately, I wasn't impressed with the plot choices or the writing of Crazy on You. First of all, there were some continuity issues for me. Maybe I missed something, but there were times I couldn't follow the writing because Crystal B Bright would bounce between the present and character flashbacks without making it obvious which time period the character is describing.

But perhaps my biggest issue was how both characters couldn't stop thinking about each other in a sexual context. Obviously, when we find someone else physically attractive there's a level of doing so that's sexual, but I don't understand how every positive trait or experience between these characters sparked sexual thoughts. You can appreciate someone's talents without thinking about jumping them constantly. And unless your relationship is only based on sex then you will have other positive thoughts. And if not, then that's not a relationship I care to read about. And if that's not bad enough, the first encounter was just laughable. I mean there's body wash... And even though it wasn't specifically stated this way... It just isn't supposed to go... inside. And that's all I'm going to say about that.

After I got to the body wash scene, I needed to take a break, and after I put Crazy on You down for 30 minutes or so to complain to Husband, I realized that no one was forcing me to go back. And if I can go on with my life knowing I'm not finishing a story and it isn't going to drive me crazy not knowing how things end, then that's the type of book I can DNF and move on to something I'll enjoy more. Crazy on You: DNF'd at 63%. Have you read Crazy on You? What did you think? Let me know!

Wednesday, February 27, 2019

Can't Wait for Beware the Night

Can't-Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings to spotlight and talk about the books we're excited about that we have yet to read. Generally they're books that have yet to be released as well. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by the fabulous Jill at Breaking the Spine. Find out more here.

Beware the Night

By: Jessika Fleck

Expected Publication: March 12th 2019 by Swoon Reads

320 pages

Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy

( Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository )

*Note: The above links to Amazon and Book Depository are affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--When her world divides, pitting light against dark, Veda must join a dangerous revolution to save her grandfather and fight against injustice...even if it costs her the boy she loves.

On the island of Bellona, life is peaceful--as long as the citizens dutifully worship the Sun, which protects them from all harm. Seventeen-year-old Veda knows that keeping the Sun happy will protect her and her grandfather from the Night, the dangerous people who snatch innocent citizens from their beds under the cover of darkness, never to be seen again. As long as Veda follows the rules, she will be safe.

But when Veda's grandfather is offered up as the next sacrificial offering to keep the Sun's favor, she starts to see that the safety she's been promised comes at a dangerous price. Maybe there is more to fear above than there is below.

With a mysterious young man, Dorian, at her side, Veda has to figure out if the scary bedtime stories she grew up hearing are real--or dangerous lies.

What are you guys waiting on this week? Let me know!

Monday, February 25, 2019

2019 Series Enders Reading Challenge - February Wrap Up

Time for our Monthly Wrap Up for the 2019 Series Enders Reading Challenge hosted by Sandy @ Somewhere Only We Know and Holly @ Words Fueled by Love!

Neither Sandy nor Holly finished any series enders this month.

Which series enders did you finish? Link the up below. Don't forget to include the title, your name, & your blog name (Ex: Requiem - Sandy @ Somewhere Only We Know) Also, the February giveaway runs from February 25th - March 25th. On March 25th we will use random.org and the linky entries to pull a winner.

Inlinkz Link Party

Sunday, February 24, 2019

Sunday Post - 02/24/19

The Sunday Post is a weekly meme hosted by Kimba @ The Caffeinated Book Reviewer ~this meme was inspired in part by ~ In My Mailbox~ It's a chance to share News. A post to recap the past week, showcase books and things we have received and share news about what is coming up for the week on our blog.

Husband was off work Monday and Tuesday this week. It was really nice to have him here. The kids loved it of course. We were able to get outside and play Monday and even go for a walk. Tuesday it was rainy, but Little Girl loved that Daddy got to take her to school and pick her up. They went to get a Happy Meal after school. Wednesday and Thursday were mostly normal days. Friday Husband went into work late so it was a different kind of morning. Saturday we drove to Mobile for a surprise birthday party for my Nanny. She's 87 years old. I was so impressed with the number of family members that came that we don't get to see all that often. And what really warmed my heart was how many of the newest generation of kids were there. Even Nanny's first great-great grandchild was there.

THIS PAST WEEK:

Monday: Review of A Return of Devotion (Haven Manor, # 2) by Kristi Ann Hunter (3.5 Stars)
Wednesday: Can't Wait for The Lieutenant's Nurse by Sara Ackerman

UPCOMING THIS WEEK:

Monday: 2019 Series Enders Reading Challenge - February Wrap Up
Tuesday: Top Ten Tuesday?
Wednesday: Can't Wait for Wednesday
Thursday: DNF Review of Crazy on You (A Love & Harmony Romance, #3) by Crystal B Bright

Don’t forget to link up for the 2019 Series Enders Reading Challenge! You have until December 15th, 2019 to sing up. Each month there will be a giveaway for those participating with an end of the year giveaway too! Click on the picture below or the link above to find out more!

That's it for my shelves and recaps of my past and upcoming week. What did you add to your shelves this week? Any bookish news you want to talk about? Let me know!

Wednesday, February 20, 2019

Can't Wait for The Lieutenant's Nurse

Can't-Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings to spotlight and talk about the books we're excited about that we have yet to read. Generally they're books that have yet to be released as well. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by the fabulous Jill at Breaking the Spine. Find out more here.

The Lieutenant's Nurse

By: Sara Ackerman

Expected Publication: March 5th 2019 by MIRA

352 pages

Genre: Adult, Historical Fiction

( Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository )

*Note: The above links to Amazon and Book Depository are affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--November, 1941. She's never even seen the ocean before, but Eva Cassidy has her reasons for making the crossing to Hawaii, and they run a lot deeper than escaping a harsh Michigan winter. Newly enlisted as an Army Corps nurse, Eva is stunned by the splendor she experiences aboard the steamship SS Lurline; even more so by Lt. Clark Spencer, a man to whom she is drawn but who clearly has secrets of his own. Eva's past--and the future she's trying to create--means that she's not free to follow her heart. Clark is a navy intelligence officer, and he warns her that the United States won't be able to hold off joining the war for long, but nothing can prepare them for the surprise attack that will change the world they know.In the wake of the bombing of Pearl Harbor, Eva and her fellow nurses band together for the immense duty of keeping the American wounded alive. And the danger that finds her threatens everything she holds dear. Amid the chaos and heartbreak, Eva will have to decide whom to trust and how far she will go to protect those she loves.Set in the vibrant tropical surroundings of the Pacific, The Lieutenant's Nurse is an evocative, emotional WWII story of love, friendship and the resilient spirit of the heroic nurses of Pearl Harbor.

What are you guys waiting on this week? Let me know!

Monday, February 18, 2019

A Return of Devotion - Review

A Return of Devotion (Haven Manor, # 2)

By: Kristi Ann Hunter

Expected Publication: February 5th 2019 by Bethany House Publishers

352 pages

Genre: Historical Fiction, Christian Fiction

Source: Publisher via NetGalley (Thank you!!)

( Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository )

*Note: The above links to Amazon and Book Depository are affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--Daphne Blakemoor was perfectly happy living in her own secluded world for twelve years. She had everything she needed—loved ones, a true home, and time to indulge her imagination. But when ownership of the estate where she works as a housekeeper passes on, and the new marquis has an undeniable connection to her past, everything she's come to rely upon is threatened.

William, Marquis of Chemsford's main goal in life is to be the exact opposite of his father. Starting a new life in the peace and quiet of the country sounds perfect until his housekeeper turns his life upside down.

They've spent their lives hiding from the past. Can they find the courage to face their deepest wounds and, perhaps, find a new path for the future together?

Daphne was such a relatable and likeable character in A Defense of Honor. I have only over the last year or two increased the amount of historical fiction that I've been reading, and I haven't yet read a book about a girl who got pregnant outside of marriage. One of the things I love about this particular time period is that the culture does so much to avoid even the appearance of men and women having inappropriate relationships outside of marriage. Yet, come on, this is life and human beings have always made mistakes. And so having sex and getting pregnant outside of marriage isn't only a problem of today's time. And I think we can all relate to having made a mistake that has quite heavy consequences for us.

Understandably so, Daphne's experiences have caused her to be quite fearful of life. She was always a shy girl who struggled with society and the social functions of the time period. Having Benedict allowed her to retreat from society. Even though the description indicates that Daphne has held the position of housekeeper for Haven Manor for quite some time, she's not really been acting in that position. The house has now changed hands and the new owner wants to make the house his main home, and so Daphne now has to take on the roll in an official capacity.

William's father has recently passed, and he's inherited the marquis title--as well as all of his father's property. He arrives at Haven Manor (unaware of the house's name) and is completely thrown off by his housekeeper. She's unlike any housekeeper he's ever had, and she can't seem to remember that she's not his social equal. When he meets Benedict, William can't move on without getting the entire story from Daphne.

I enjoyed A Return of Devotion. I read it quickly and didn't really want to put it down when I needed to. Yet I'm finding it hard to describe how I felt about the book and the story. I enjoyed it, but something held me back from loving it. Maybe it was Daphne's habit of daydreaming or dwelling on fantasy. Maybe it was the extremely slow build of the relationship between Daphne and William. I can't find anything really negative to say about it. It was good, but something was just missing for me to love it entirely. I can't wait to read Jess's story though--I can't believe I didn't connect her to A Noble Masquerade. And I do love how this series has taken a topic that isn't expected from this time period as the overall theme for the series. A Return of Devotion gets 3.5 Stars. Have you read A Return of Devotion? What did you think? Let me know!

Sunday, February 17, 2019

Sunday Post & Stacking the Shelves - 02/17/19

The Sunday Post is a weekly meme hosted by Kimba @ The Caffeinated Book Reviewer ~this meme was inspired in part by ~ In My Mailbox~ It's a chance to share News. A post to recap the past week, showcase books and things we have received and share news about what is coming up for the week on our blog.

Well guys, I can finally tell you about my side project that I've been working on since September. I've opened an Etsy shop selling original design, hand-drawn stickers. I don't have as many sets available as I'd like, but I basically only have an hour and a half a day (semi-uninterrupted) to work on drawing and each drawing takes several hours for me to complete. It may not be as efficient as creating them digitally but the hand-drawn look is what I'm going for. Anyway, I started working on the shop in September when fall was coming on so that's why pumpkins are one of my first completed sets even though it's February. So yeah, that's what I've been doing any spare moment I have. As far as books go, I'm deeply hooked into the Charley Davidson series by Darynda Jones, and this is the first week I've had a children's book to review.

THIS PAST WEEK:

Monday: Review of Verity by Colleen Hoover (4 Stars)
Wednesday: Can't Wait for Somewhere Only We Know by Maurene Goo

UPCOMING THIS WEEK:

Monday: Review of A Return of Devotion (Haven Manor, # 2) by Kristi Ann Hunter
Tuesday: Top Ten Tuesday?
Wednesday: Can't Wait for Wednesday

Don’t forget to link up for the 2019 Series Enders Reading Challenge! You have until December 15th, 2019 to sing up. Each month there will be a giveaway for those participating with an end of the year giveaway too! Click on the picture below or the link above to find out more!

Stacking the Shelves is hosted by Tynga's Reviews.

Just in Case You Ever Wonder

By: Max Lucado (Illustrations: Eve Tharlet)

Expected Publication: August 6th 2019 by Thomas Nelson (first published October 20th 1992)

32 pages

Genre: Children's, Picture Books

Source: Publisher via Edelweiss (Thank you!!)

( Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository )

*Note: The above links to Amazon and Book Depository are affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--This book assures children of God's love through all their experiences—including during hard times such as being afraid of the dark or being bullied—and gives assurance that the parent was there when they were first born and will be with them even in heaven.

Max Lucado's classic book Just in Case You Ever Wonder has made its way into hearts and story times around the world. This award-winning book about the love between a parent and child

has sold 1.7 million copies, touching lives for more than 25 years;
now includes new, breathtaking art from Eve Tharlet;
is perfect for children ages 3–7; and
reminds children of Jesus’ unconditional love.

Whether you have treasured this classic book for years or are reading it for the first time with your little ones, this timeless reminder of the love between a parent and a child—and ultimately, between God the Father and us—will come to hold a special place in your heart and home. Children long to hear they’re special and loved. Just in Case You Ever Wonder assures them that as they grow and change, in both good and bad times, you—and their heavenly Father—will always be on their side . . . just in case they ever wonder.

Bible Journaling for the Fine Artist

By: Melissa Fischer & Kate Peiffer

Expected Publication: March 26th 2019 by Walter Foster Publishing

144 pages

Genre: Non-fiction, Arts & Crafts

Source: Publisher via NetGalley (Thank you!!)

( Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository )

*Note: The above links to Amazon and Book Depository are affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--Explore your faith artistically with Bible Journaling for the Fine Artist—a guide that goes beyond doodling and lettering to teach you to make fine art prayer journals, daily devotionals, and more.

Beginning with a brief introduction to Bible journaling, this valuable guide explores various media, including colored pencils, pen and ink, brush pens, and watercolor paint, and how to use them. You will find dozens of step-by-step tutorials for drawing and painting beautiful artwork related to meaningful Bible passages, as well as plenty of ideas and techniques for applying lettering, flourishes, icons, and embellishments to your artwork for maximum impact.

There are tips for creating compelling layouts, reworking and embracing mistakes, and several step-by-step projects for you to incorporate into your own Bible or prayer journal. Two talented and dynamic artists show how they integrate their own style and artistry with their faith through a variety of art journaling projects, from full-page masterpieces to smaller artwork in the margins and on the covers of their journals.

That's it for my shelves and recaps of my past and upcoming week. What did you add to your shelves this week? Any bookish news you want to talk about? Let me know!

Wednesday, February 13, 2019

Can't Wait for Somewhere Only We Know

Can't-Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings to spotlight and talk about the books we're excited about that we have yet to read. Generally they're books that have yet to be released as well. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by the fabulous Jill at Breaking the Spine. Find out more here.

Somewhere Only We Know

By: Maurene Goo

Expected Publication: May 7th 2019 by Farrar, Straus and Giroux (BYR)

320 pages

Genre: Young Adult, Contemporary

( Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository )

*Note: The above links to Amazon and Book Depository are affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--10 00 p.m.: Lucky is the biggest K-pop star on the scene, and she's just performed her hit song "Heartbeat" in Hong Kong to thousands of adoring fans. She's about to debut on The Tonight Show in America, hopefully a breakout performance for her career. But right now? She's in her fancy hotel, trying to fall asleep but dying for a hamburger.

11 00 p.m.: Jack is sneaking into a fancy hotel, on assignment for his tabloid job that he keeps secret from his parents. On his way out of the hotel, he runs into a girl wearing slippers, a girl who is single-mindedly determined to find a hamburger. She looks kind of familiar. She's very cute. He's maybe curious.

12:00 a.m.: Nothing will ever be the same.

Of course, I've got to read the book that has the same title as my blog! What are you guys waiting on this week? Let me know!

Monday, February 11, 2019

Verity - Review

Verity

By: Colleen Hoover

Publication: December 7th 2018 by Hoover Ink, Inc.

397 pages

Genre: Adult, Mystery, Thriller

Source: Personal Kindle Library

( Goodreads | Amazon )

*Note: The above link to Amazon is an affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--Lowen Ashleigh is a struggling writer on the brink of financial ruin when she accepts the job offer of a lifetime. Jeremy Crawford, husband of bestselling author Verity Crawford, has hired Lowen to complete the remaining books in a successful series his injured wife is unable to finish.

Lowen arrives at the Crawford home, ready to sort through years of Verity's notes and outlines, hoping to find enough material to get her started. What Lowen doesn't expect to uncover in the chaotic office is an unfinished autobiography Verity never intended for anyone to read. Page after page of bone-chilling admissions, including Verity's recollection of what really happened the day her daughter died.

Lowen decides to keep the manuscript hidden from Jeremy, knowing its contents would devastate the already grieving father. But as Lowen's feelings for Jeremy begin to intensify, she recognizes all the ways she could benefit if he were to read his wife's words. After all, no matter how devoted Jeremy is to his injured wife, a truth this horrifying would make it impossible for him to continue to love her.

A standalone romantic thriller from #1 New York Times bestselling author Colleen Hoover, releasing December 7th.

Some background including some spoilers for some of Colleen Hoover's previously published books (no spoilers for Verity). I've been reading Colleen Hoover books since I originally saw Slammed available for review on NetGalley and took a chance. I was blown away. And the next couple of books that followed were just as good. (Point of Retreat and Hopeless specifically.) I didn't love Maybe Someday because there's a bit of cheating, and I also felt like Ridge only ended up choosing Sydney when Maggie was no longer an option. For Ugly Love, I didn't like that Tate and Miles built their relationship upon a foundation of friends-with-benefits. Yet the formatting of this book was beautiful. I did really enjoy Confess. I'm still not sure how I feel about the story elements of It Ends With Us despite a 5 Star review. I cried so that boosted my rating. But there were several pieces I just felt iffy about. Without Merit has been by far my least favorite Colleen Hoover book. I didn't like any of the characters, but specifically, I didn't like Merit. So it's hard to root for a character or a relationship when one of the characters isn't likable. All Your Perfects was good, but I felt like the letters at the end covered a bit too much ground. And here we are at Verity.

I always try to avoid spoilers or reviews before picking up a book. But being a member of Colleen Hoover's CoHorts on Facebook inundated me with post after post about how great Verity was, how "twisted", etc. I couldn't really avoid seeing these posts. And I feel like seeing so much of this really boosted my expectations. Plus I mean Colleen Hoover. That being said, I started this book with extremely high expectations as well as fear and paranoia concerning the twistedness of the book and characters. In the end, I felt a little letdown. Let me try to explain without spoiling anything.

Lowen and Jeremy meet at the scene of an auto versus pedestrian accident in New York City. Obviously shaken by the events Lowen needs a moment to compose herself and Jeremy steps in to help at that moment. As fate would have it, Lowen and Jeremy were headed to the same meeting where Jeremy and his wife Verity's publishing company would be attempting to contract Lowen to write the remaining three books in Verity's popular suspense/thriller book series. Due to Lowen's financial situation, she's also about to be homeless and agrees to visit the Crawford home in hopes of finding some outlines and research Verity might have concerning her plans for the remaining three books in the series. As the description says, while sorting through Verity's office, Lowen finds an autobiographical manuscript written by Verity. And here's where the twisted bits come into play.

Verity's manuscript will make you cringe. It will make you angry--furious. It will make you cry (possibly...I didn't, but I can see how someone might). It will make you want to vomit. It will make you want to hug any and every child you might see passing by on the street--especially your own children should you have any. How a person could be so callous and devoid of proper emotion is just beyond believable. Yet these people do exist. I hate to think that these people exist, but they do. With every chapter that Lowen reads, it got worse. And worse. I was even telling my husband about it after I finished the book and his words were "I want to vomit." This is truly the worst part of the book. The manuscript. And well one more part...but spoilers you know.

I don't want to spoil anything so I'm trying to be vague. But I guess I'd built things up so much that my imagination was worse than the truth. I expected a serial killer in the wife or the husband or a combo-couple team. I expected more scariness I guess. There were a few moments that were creepy and chilling no doubt. But my imagination got the better of me I guess. I think part of that is due to not being able to read Verity immediately upon release and form my own thoughts before the opinions of others started pouring out. But real life prevented me from reading sooner.

There's a twist at the end that has caused some debate, but it was intended to do so. I won't say more than that it comes in the form of a long, detailed letter. And while I don't want to discuss the contents of the letter, I do want to discuss that this seems to be a repetitive plot point through several of Colleen Hoover's books. I specifically mentioned the letters from All Your Perfects earlier. I know there have been other letters too, Slammed/Point of Retreat had them, It Ends With Us, probably others. But I feel like it just ties things up in a bow too nicely. The letters cover too wide a range of topics in an attempt to address all of the pieces and sometimes cover up holes in the story. I don't doubt Colleen Hoover has things planned from the beginning to end and even if she didn't in the first draft, but the time the manuscript goes through several passes of editing, she knows how it'll all end. And this means that sometimes decisions are made that lead the reader and characters in one direction, but then a nicely worded letter toward the end of the book is supposed to redirect us. It's hard to explain without getting into specifics or spoilers. Regardless, I hope CoHo decides to re-evaluate using this as a tool for her future books.

Favorite quotes:

-Caring for your body is no different from caring for a child. Sometimes it's hard, sometimes it sucks, sometimes you just want to give in, but if you do, you'll pay for the consequences eighteen years down the road.

-If an attraction is present between two people, those two people can only be one of two things. Involved or not involved. There is no in-between.

I don't read suspense/mystery/thrillers often. There's a reason for that. The night after reading the first 50% of the book I didn't sleep well. I was paranoid about what was to come. Of course, I found that my imagination was worse than what the book included (in terms of what would happen to Lowen). Verity will still go down as the most disturbing book I've read in 2018 with one of the most memorable characters (Verity herself). I took issue with a few other things (the frequency of the f-bomb and the frequency of descriptive scenes, as well as a moral repulsion to some things discussed within the book). Verity wasn't a perfect book for me. I can't say I'll ever want to re-read it. But due to the experience and emotions, I felt while reading Verity, it deserves 4 Stars. Have you read Verity? What did you think? Let me know!

Sunday, February 10, 2019

Sunday Post & Stacking the Shelves - 02/10/19

The Sunday Post is a weekly meme hosted by Kimba @ The Caffeinated Book Reviewer ~this meme was inspired in part by ~ In My Mailbox~ It's a chance to share News. A post to recap the past week, showcase books and things we have received and share news about what is coming up for the week on our blog.

A normal week. The weather was lovely and we were able to get outside to play several days this week. Not much else to report.

THIS PAST WEEK:

Monday: Review of Healing Hearts by Sarah M Eden (4 Stars)
Wednesday: Can't Wait for Storm and Fury (The Harbinger, # 1) by Jennifer L Armentrout

UPCOMING THIS WEEK:

Monday: Review of A Return of Devotion (Haven Manor, # 2) by Kristi Ann Hunter
Tuesday: Top Ten Tuesday?
Wednesday: Can't Wait for Wednesday

Don’t forget to link up for the 2019 Series Enders Reading Challenge! You have until December 15th, 2019 to sing up. Each month there will be a giveaway for those participating with an end of the year giveaway too! Click on the picture below or the link above to find out more!

Stacking the Shelves is hosted by Tynga's Reviews.

What the Wind Knows

By: Amy Harmon

Expected Publication: March 1st 2019 by Lake Union Publishing

416 pages

Genre: Historical Fiction, Time Travel, Fantasy

Source: free via Kindle First

( Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository )

*Note: The above links to Amazon and Book Depository are affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--In an unforgettable love story, a woman’s impossible journey through the ages could change everything….

Anne Gallagher grew up enchanted by her grandfather’s stories of Ireland. Heartbroken at his death, she travels to his childhood home to spread his ashes. There, overcome with memories of the man she adored and consumed by a history she never knew, she is pulled into another time.

The Ireland of 1921, teetering on the edge of war, is a dangerous place in which to awaken. But there Anne finds herself, hurt, disoriented, and under the care of Dr. Thomas Smith, guardian to a young boy who is oddly familiar. Mistaken for the boy’s long-missing mother, Anne adopts her identity, convinced the woman’s disappearance is connected to her own.

As tensions rise, Thomas joins the struggle for Ireland’s independence and Anne is drawn into the conflict beside him. Caught between history and her heart, she must decide whether she’s willing to let go of the life she knew for a love she never thought she’d find. But in the end, is the choice actually hers to make?

That's it for my shelves and recaps of my past and upcoming week. What did you add to your shelves this week? Any bookish news you want to talk about? Let me know!

Wednesday, February 6, 2019

Can't Wait for Storm and Fury

Can't-Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings to spotlight and talk about the books we're excited about that we have yet to read. Generally they're books that have yet to be released as well. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by the fabulous Jill at Breaking the Spine. Find out more here.

Storm and Fury (The Harbinger, # 1)

By: Jennifer L Armentrout

Expected Publication: June 11th 2019 by Inkyard Press

384 pages

Genre: Fantasy, Paranormal

( Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository )

*Note: The above links to Amazon and Book Depository are affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--From the #1 New York Times, USA TODAY and internationally bestselling author of the fantastical Dark Elements and the Lux series comes a new novel set in a world of gargoyle protectors, rising demons and one girl with an explosive secret.

Eighteen-year-old Trinity Marrow may be going blind, but she can see and communicate with ghosts and spirits. Her unique gift is part of a secret so dangerous that she’s been in hiding for years in an isolated compound fiercely guarded by Wardens—gargoyle shape-shifters who protect humankind from demons. If the demons discover the truth about Trinity, they’ll devour her, flesh and bone, to enhance their own powers.

When Wardens from another clan arrive with disturbing reports that something out there is killing both demons and Wardens, Trinity’s safe world implodes. Not the least because one of the outsiders is the most annoying and fascinating person she’s ever met. Zayne has secrets of his own that will upend her world yet again—but working together becomes imperative once demons breach the compound and Trinity’s secret comes to light. To save her family and maybe the world, she’ll have to put her trust in Zayne. But all bets are off as a supernatural war is unleashed…

What are you guys waiting on this week? Let me know!

Monday, February 4, 2019

Healing Hearts - Review

Healing Hearts

By: Sarah M Eden

Publication: February 5th 2019 by Shadow Mountain

336 pages

Genre: Historical Fiction

Source: Publisher via NetGalley (Thank you!!)

( Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository )

*Note: The above links to Amazon and Book Depository are affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--Wyoming Territory, 1876

As the only doctor in the frontier town of Savage Wells, Gideon MacNamara knows his prospects for a bride are limited. The womenfolk in town are either too young, too old, or already spoken for. So, being a practical man, he decides to take advantage of the matchmaking service of the day—mail-order brides—and sends away for a woman with nursing experience.

When Miriam steps off the stagecoach in Savage Wells, she sees a bright future in front of her. But when the town—and Gideon—meets her, ready for a wedding, her excitement quickly turns to horror. Somehow Dr. MacNamara's message had gotten turned around. He didn’t want a nurse, he wanted a wife. When she refuses to marry him, she finds herself stranded in Savage Wells with some very unhappy townspeople.

But Gideon is not like the other men Miriam has met. Embarrassed by the misunderstanding, he offers her a job, and the two begin an awkward—and often humorous—dance of getting to know each other as they work to care for the people of their town. Romance blossoms between the two, but when a former medical associate of Miriam’s arrives in town, Gideon and the other townsfolk must rally around Miriam to protect her from a dangerous fate. Gideon and Miriam must decide if they are willing to risk their hearts for each other even as buried secrets are brought to light.

In some genres I find myself becoming a bit of a snob. I know which authors I like and which ones I've read repeatedly that I didn't enjoy as much. But the historical fiction genre is one that I feel I'm just branching into. I would read it occasionally but more so in the last two years. That being said, I'm just now finding authors that I want to read more of their work within this genre and Sarah M Eden will definitely fall into this category after reading Healing Hearts.

I never enjoyed history as a subject in school, but historical fiction makes the time periods I read about come to life. It's much easier to find events interesting when I'm filtering them through the eyes of a character who is experiencing and affected by these events. In the case of Healing Hearts, women's rights was a big issue. Yet I loved how Sarah M Eden approached this. Miriam didn't rail against what was unfair about being a woman. Yet she didn't take things lying down either. One thing I specifically appreciated was that this story wasn't filtered through today's feminist movement. It wasn't tainted. It wasn't altered. Miriam struggles felt authentic and time period appropriate. Similarly, the difference in medical knowledge for the time period versus now was enough to really make me thankful for living in the now. I found this part particularly interesting and the outbreak of Scarlet Fever as well.

The romantic relationship between Gideon and Miriam was enjoyable and certainly kept my interest, but I would venture to say that it was secondary to other plot points. I was rooting for these two, I liked them as a couple, and yet at times, I felt that Sarah M Eden could have even stepped it up a notch for me. The mystery behind Miriam's past, her time at the asylum, and whether or not she would be rescued from being forced to return was probably the biggest driving factor of the story. All well done in my opinion.

Considering Caden and Paisley apparently have their own book, I wish that this book was labeled as the second in a series so that I would have known that a grouping existed. I will certainly plan to go back and check out Caden and Paisley's story (The Sheriffs of Savage Wells).

Favorite quote:

-"My mother once told me that confidence is the currency of high society. No matter what you profess to be, what you are perceived to be depends entirely on how well you wear your claim."

Healing Hearts easily gets 4 Stars. I loved the history included that was so relevant to the story in terms of medical knowledge and women's rights. A few other issues that come up in our politics today were present and I found myself enjoying the way they were presented rather than being turned off by them. The romantic relationship between Gideon and Miriam was genuine and slow growing. It did take a back seat to some other plot points, but it was present enough to keep me turning pages. Have you read Healing Hearts? What did you think? Let me know!

Sunday, February 3, 2019

Sunday Post & Stacking the Shelves - 02/03/19

The Sunday Post is a weekly meme hosted by Kimba @ The Caffeinated Book Reviewer ~this meme was inspired in part by ~ In My Mailbox~ It's a chance to share News. A post to recap the past week, showcase books and things we have received and share news about what is coming up for the week on our blog.

Another good week--mostly normal. Husband was off work on Tuesday. He'd scheduled it in advance, but that was also the day the polar vortex start causing issues. They predicted snow for us but we never got any. It was 60 degrees the day before so even if we had snow it wouldn't have stayed around. Little Boy started randomly running a fever Tuesday afternoon and Wednesday. He is cutting 4 teeth right now and 3 of those 4 just broke the skin. *Shrugs* He's pretty much fine now. My mom's birthday was on Thursday and we celebrated by going out to eat Friday night with her and my dad and my brother's family. My parents also took the kids home with them from dinner, and we're getting them today after church. Husband and I ran by Lowes after dinner Friday night to look at flooring. We're hoping to replace the carpet in our dining room (whoever thought that was a good idea when they built this house was delusional...or never had kids). Saturday it was hard to decide between an entire day of reading or getting things done. Ultimately, I opted for getting things done. I knew that's the one I'd regret if I passed it up. When the kids are back and I'm looking around the house at all of the things I need to do but would rather spend one on one time with the kids I figured I needed to take advantage and get them done while I had the chance.

THIS PAST WEEK:

Monday: Review of Fame, Fate, and the First Kiss by Kasie West (3.5 Stars)
Wednesday: Can't Wait for The Number of Love (Codebreakers, # 1) by Roseanna M White
Thursday: January 2019 EOM Wrap Up

UPCOMING THIS WEEK:

Monday: Review of Healing Hearts by Sarah M Eden
Tuesday: Top Ten Tuesday?
Wednesday: Can't Wait for Wednesday

Don’t forget to link up for the 2019 Series Enders Reading Challenge! You have until December 15th, 2019 to sing up. Each month there will be a giveaway for those participating with an end of the year giveaway too! Click on the picture below or the link above to find out more!

Stacking the Shelves is hosted by Tynga's Reviews.

Storm and Fury (The Harbinger, # 1)

By: Jennifer L Armentrout

Expected Publication: June 11th 2019 by Inkyard Press

384 pages

Genre: Fantasy, Paranormal

( Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository )

*Note: The above links to Amazon and Book Depository are affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--From the #1 New York Times, USA TODAY and internationally bestselling author of the fantastical Dark Elements and the Lux series comes a new novel set in a world of gargoyle protectors, rising demons and one girl with an explosive secret.

Eighteen-year-old Trinity Marrow may be going blind, but she can see and communicate with ghosts and spirits. Her unique gift is part of a secret so dangerous that she’s been in hiding for years in an isolated compound fiercely guarded by Wardens—gargoyle shape-shifters who protect humankind from demons. If the demons discover the truth about Trinity, they’ll devour her, flesh and bone, to enhance their own powers.

When Wardens from another clan arrive with disturbing reports that something out there is killing both demons and Wardens, Trinity’s safe world implodes. Not the least because one of the outsiders is the most annoying and fascinating person she’s ever met. Zayne has secrets of his own that will upend her world yet again—but working together becomes imperative once demons breach the compound and Trinity’s secret comes to light. To save her family and maybe the world, she’ll have to put her trust in Zayne. But all bets are off as a supernatural war is unleashed…

Beneath a Prairie Moon

By: Kim Vogel Sawyer

Publication: Published March 20th 2018 by Waterbrook Press

349 pages

Genre: Historical Fiction, Christian Fiction

( Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository )

*Note: The above links to Amazon and Book Depository are affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--Readers rabid for the sweet historical romances of Tracie Peterson and Tamara Alexander will flock to Kim Vogel Sawyer's prairie-set heartwarmer of a pair of opposites destined for love.

Estelle Brantley grew up in affluence and knows exactly how to behave in high society. But when she is cast from the social registers due to her father's illegal dealings, she finds herself forced into a role she never imagined: tutoring rough Kansas ranchers in the subjects of manners and morals so they can "marry up" with their mail-order brides. Mack Cleveland, whose father was swindled by a mail-order bride, wants no part of the scheme to bring Eastern women to Spiveyville, Kansas, and he's put off by the snooty airs and fastidious behavior of the "little city gal" in their midst. But as time goes by, his heart goes out to the teacher who tries so diligently to smooth the rough edges from the down-to-earth men. How can he teach her that perfection won't bring happiness?

That's it for my shelves and recaps of my past and upcoming week. What did you add to your shelves this week? Any bookish news you want to talk about? Let me know!