Top Ten Tuesday was created by The Broke and the Bookish in June of 2010 and was moved to That Artsy Reader Girl in January of 2018. It was born of a love of lists, a love of books, and a desire to bring bookish friends together. This week's topic is Top Ten Most Anticipated Books of Q3/Q4 2020.
Which books are on your Summer 2020 to-be-read list? Let me know!
Love's Mountain Quest (Hearts of Montana, # 2)
By: Misty M Beller
Expected Publication: June 30th 2020 by Bethany House Publishers
336 pages
Genre: Adult, 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--Young widow Joanna Watson is struggling to make a new home for her five-year-old son, Samuel, in the little mountain town of Settler's Fort. When she returns home from work to find Samuel and the woman watching him missing, with no lawman in town, she enlists a man she prays has enough experience in this rugged country to help.Isaac Bowen wants nothing more than a quiet, invisible life in these mountains, far away from the bad decisions of his past. But he has a strong suspicion of who's behind the kidnapping, and if he's right, he knows all too well the evil they're chasing.
As they press on against the elements, Joanna fights to hold on to hope, while Isaac knows a reckoning is coming. They find encouragement in the tentative trust that grows between them, but whether it can withstand the danger and coming confrontation is far from certain in this wild, unpredictable land.
I was excited to explore Joanna's story in this book. I felt for her in the previous book, Hope's Highest Mountain. Her husband died leaving her a widow and single mother of a very enthusiastic little boy. The journey to Settler's Fort was difficult and Samuel was lost at one point. So to find out that Samuel was once again involved in a tragic event was a little heartbreaking for me. In this case, he and Joanna's friend, Laura, witnessed a murderer and were kidnapped. Joanna enlisted Isaac Bowen's help in rescuing Laura and Samuel from the kidnappers.
Isaac has had his eye on Joanna since he helped rescue Samuel in the first book. Yet he feels unworthy of her due to his past. He spent a year with the very criminals who kidnapped her son before waking up and changing his life. Isaac sees this as an opportunity to redeem himself once and for all and put an end to the gang that he started.
I loved the build of the relationship between these two characters. They both had regard for the other before this journey. I loved how they slowly exposed themselves to the other through this journey. Every obstacle along the way revealed the character of each. My first reaction to Isaac breaking his leg on the journey was that Misty M Beller was throwing in unnecessary obstacles, but what she really did was provide Isaac (and myself) an opportunity to rely on God instead of Isaac himself. It was something his character needed to grow in and revealed my own faults with assuming Isaac would be the means to rescuing Samuel and Laura rather than having faith that God would provide another way.
Usually I get a little frustrated with additional narrators beyond the two main characters. In this case, Laura provided a perspective we wouldn't be able to witness without her POV. But Laura also provided intrigue for me concerning the next book in the series. I'm assuming she'll be the leading female character. I have some suspicions about who the main male character might be but I'll have to wait to find out. Either way, I'm excited to find out more.
Favorite quote:
-I’m sorry, Father. Sorry for thinking I’m the only one to keep Joanna safe. The only one capable of bringing back her son and Miss Hannon. In truth, there’s no way I can do any of it without you. Go before us, Lord. Make our way straight. Fight the battle before us.
Love's Mountain Quest was so enjoyable. I loved seeing the authentic build of feelings and relationship between Isaac and Joanna. I loved the spiritual battles each had to overcome. I ached for the trauma that Samuel and Laura endured. But I can't wait to see Laura's story. Love's Mountain Quest gets 4 Stars. Have you read Love's Mountain Quest? What did you think? Let me know!
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.
Sunday was my birthday. We celebrated with family over to eat and enjoy the pool. We also celebrated my brother's birthday and Father's Day. The rest of the week was rainy almost every day. We did get to walk most days because the rain didn't come through until noon or after. I began to feel like I was trapped in a cave by the end of the week. I think quarantine is really starting to catch up to me. Thankfully it's taken longer to affect me than some. My kids are dying to go to our public park. I think technically it's back open, but I'm so apprehensive. This just really felt like a long week. And I think I'm suffering from yet ANOTHER book hangover.
Monday: Review of All the Things We Never Knew by Liara Tamani (3.5 Stars)
Wednesday: Can't Wait for Beholden (The Fairest Maiden, # 1) by Jody Hedlund
Thursday: 2020 Series Enders Reading Challenge - June Wrap Up
Friday: Review of Lakeshire Park by Megan Walker (4.5 Stars)
Monday: Review of Love's Mountain Quest (Hearts of Montana, # 2) by Misty M Beller
Tuesday: Top Ten Tuesday?
Wednesday: Can't Wait for Wednesday & June 2020 EOM Wrap Up
Thursday: Review of A Bride of Convenience (The Bride Ships, # 3) by Jody Hedlund
Don’t forget to link up for the 2020 Series Enders Reading Challenge! You have until December 15th, 2020 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!
Wild at Heart (Wild, # 2)
By: KA Tucker
Publication: March 3rd 2020 by K.A. Tucker
400 pages
Genre: Adult, Contemporary
Source: Personal Kindle Library (birthday present)
*Note: The above link to Amazon is an affiliate link. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.
Goodreads description--From the internationally best-selling author of The Simple Wild comes the continuation of a woman’s journey to Alaska and a life she never imagined for herself.Calla Fletcher returns to Toronto a different person, struggling to find direction and still very much in love with the rugged bush pilot she left behind. When Jonah arrives on her doorstep with a proposition she can’t dismiss, she takes the leap and rushes back to Alaska to begin their exciting future together.
But Calla soon learns that even the best intentions can lead to broken promises, and that compromise comes with a hefty price—a log cabin in interior rural Alaska that feels as isolating as the western tundra.
With Jonah gone more than he’s home, one neighbor who insists on transforming her into a true Alaskan, and another who seems more likely to shoot her than come to her aid, Calla grapples with forging her own path. In a world with roaming wildlife that has her constantly watching over her shoulder and harsh conditions that stretch far beyond the cold, dark, winter months, just stepping outside her front door can be daunting.
This is not the future Calla had in mind, leaving her to fear that perhaps she is doomed to follow in her mother’s fleeing footsteps after all.
Moment of Truth (Love Life and the List, # 3)
By: Kasie West
Publication: March 3rd 2020 by HarperTeen
352 pages
Genre: Young Adult, Contemporary
Source: Personal Kindle Library (birthday present)
( 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--At sixteen, Hadley Moore knows exactly who she is—a swimmer who will earn a scholarship to college. Totally worth all the hard work, even if her aching shoulders don’t agree.So when a guy dressed as Hollywood’s latest action hero, Heath Hall, crashes her swim meet, she isn’t amused. Instead, she’s determined to make sure he doesn’t bother her again. Only she’s not sure exactly who he is.
The swim meet isn’t the first event the imposter has interrupted, but a little digging turns up a surprising number of people who could be Heath Hall, including Hadley's ex-boyfriend and her best friend’s crush. She soon finds herself getting caught up in the mysterious world of the fake Heath Hall.
As Hadley gets closer to uncovering the masked boy’s identity, she also discovers some uncomfortable truths about herself—like she might resent the long shadow her late brother has cast over her family, that she isn’t as happy as she pretends to be with her life choices…and that she's falling for the last guy she ever thought she would like.
Secrets and Suitors
By: Joanna Barker
Publication: October 1st 2019 by Covenant Communications, Inc.
256 pages
Genre: Adult, Historical Fiction
Source: Personal Kindle Library (birthday present)
*Note: The above links to Amazon and Book Depository are affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.
Goodreads description--Reluctantly returning to London for yet another Season, shy Nora Hamilton has nearly given up hope that she will ever find the love match she longs for. After all, the one man she does harbor feelings for—her closest friend, James—has made it perfectly clear he views her as just that: a friend. With James traveling half a world away and Nora's father pressuring her to marry for wealth and status, Nora is forced to set aside her desire for love and accept the future she has always dreaded. Until James returns unexpectedly and Nora's feelings once again rush unbearably close to the surface. Determined to save what is left of their friendship, Nora ignores her own heart and allows herself to be swept up in the London Season, soon finding herself the object of two very different gentlemen's affections. Though she should be thrilled, both men come with a glaring fault: neither is the one man who holds her heart.But there is much more at stake than heartbreak. When long-kept secrets are laid bare, Nora must face the fears that have plagued her all her life and decide what true love is worth.
Miss Adeline's Match
By: Joanna Barker
Publication: April 1st 2019 by Covenant Communications
263 pages
Genre: Adult, Historical Fiction
Source: Personal Kindle Library (birthday present)
*Note: The above links to Amazon and Book Depository are affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.
Goodreads description--Miss Adeline Hayes is the perfect lady's companion: pleasant, conversational, and unceasingly proper. But when her closest friend, Charity Edgeworth, breaks off her arranged marriage without explanation, even Adeline's superior skills are put to the test. Charity's father banishes the two young women to the country, sending Adeline with a charge to find Charity a husband or suffer dire consequences.As Adeline takes on the role of reluctant matchmaker, she discovers more than one obstacle in her path. Not only does Charity prefer escaping in books to socializing, but Adeline soon finds her own attentions distracted by the standoffish—and irritatingly handsome—Mr. Evan Whitfield. Amidst an eventful foxhunt and the unexpected arrival of Charity's former betrothed, Adeline simply doesn't have time for a battle of wits with Evan. But the two are continually drawn together until Adeline begins to question her tightly guarded convictions about love and marriage.
However, when secrets are revealed and truths made known, Adeline must face her most fearsome obstacle yet: herself.
The Other Side of the Sky (The Other Side of the Sky, # 1)
By: Amie Kaufman & Meagan Spooner
Expected Publication: September 8th 2020 by HarperTeen
432 pages
Genre: Young Adult, Science Fiction
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--"Amie Kaufman and Meagan Spooner prove they are two living goddesses of writing, creating two compelling worlds with high stakes and gripping emotions." —Sarah Rees Brennan, New York Times bestselling author of the Demon's Lexicon trilogy and the Lynburn Legacy seriesNew York Times bestselling author duo Amie Kaufman and Meagan Spooner have crafted a gripping tale of magic and logic, fate and choice, and a deadly love. Perfect for fans of Laini Taylor and Brandon Sanderson.
Prince North’s home is in the sky, in a gleaming city held aloft by intricate engines, powered by technology. Nimh is the living goddess of her people on the Surface, responsible for providing answers, direction—hope.
North’s and Nimh’s lives are entwined—though their hearts can never be. Linked by a terrifying prophecy and caught between duty and fate, they must choose between saving their people or succumbing to the bond that is forbidden between them.
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!
Lakeshire Park
By: Megan Walker
Publication: April 7th 2020 by Shadow Mountain
320 pages
Genre: Adult, Historical Fiction, Regency
( 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--Brighton, England 1820Amelia Moore wants only one thing—to secure the future happiness of her younger sister, Clara. With their stepfather’s looming death, the two sisters will soon be on their own—without family, a home, or a penny to their names. When an invitation arrives to join a house party at Lakeshire Park, Amelia grasps at the chance. If she can encourage a match between Clara and their host, Sir Ronald, then at least her sister will be taken care of.
Little does she know that another guest, the arrogant and overconfident Mr. Peter Wood, is after the same goal for his own sister. Amelia and Peter begin a rivalry that Amelia has no choice but to win. But competing against Peter—and eventually playing by his rules—makes Amelia vulnerable to losing the only thing she has left to claim: her heart.
Sigh! Well, that was just the perfect read for me! I am absolutely blissed out right now. Lakeshire Park was everything I could ask for. I will certainly be on the lookout for more books by Megan Walker.
Here's the background that you need to know: Amelia and Clara are sisters. Their mother was in love as a young girl, but her beloved was sent away and was supposed to return the night of a specific ball. When he didn't show up she connected with a stranger for a dance and then stole away for a private moment which resulted in a kiss witnessed by others and they were forced into marriage. The man was Amelia and Clara's father. He died of pneumonia suddenly and their mother reconnected with her original young love who became their stepfather. On her deathbed, their mother extracted a promise from their stepfather that he would take care of them and secure their futures. He then made the smallest attempts possible by giving them one season which proved unsuccessful. After contracting a lung illness which was leading to his inevitable death, Lord Gray allowed the girls to attend a house party in one last attempt to secure husbands because, upon his death, the girls receive nothing.
Amelia is resigned to being alone and only hopes to secure a future for Clara who caught the eye of Sir Ronald during their brief time in London for their Season. The only problem is, Georgina Wood also has her sights set on Sir Ronald. And Georgina's brother, Peter, is determined to help her in any way he can. Peter and Amelia quickly realize that they each are trying to advance their own sister. They strike a deal to butt out, but they also must spend each afternoon together to give Clara and Georgina a chance to win Sir Ronald's attention on their own.
Peter's regard for Amelia was quickly evident to me. She, of course, took much longer to realize it. And I was glad that Amelia at least discerned her own feelings before learning of Peter's. But there are still more obstacles for them to face. Georgina lets it slip that Peter needs a dowry from his marriage match partner. Amelia not only doesn't have a dowry, but she also has zero funds and no home or relations beyond Clara. Also, since Clara and Georgina are in competition for Sir Ronald, Clara can't stand the idea of seeing Georgina again after this house party. If Sir Ronald offers for Georgina, Clara will be miserable watching them together. If Sir Ronald offers for Clara the opposite will be true and it will be difficult for Georgina to witness. Ultimately, the main hurdle was easy for me to spot. Yet I wasn't sure how things would turn out.
Favorite quotes:
-“Love is not a risk, Amelia. Love is an inevitable outcome of living. And sometimes it does not make any practical sense at all. But that does not mean we should fear it.”
-“What is the benefit of keeping a secret from someone you care about?” I had a feeling his question was more pointed than innocent. “For fear of losing that person’s good opinion. Or being seen differently in their eyes.”“That is exactly the thing I appreciate most about love, Miss Moore. Its opinion is not easily swayed by status or money or flaws. Unless it is betrayed, it is most forgiving. And it holds steadfast in any weather.”
Ultimately I was near giddy the entire time I was reading Lakeshire Park. I loved the characters, their backstories. I loved the banter between Amelia and Peter. I literally can't think of a thing I would change. Lakeshire Park gets 4.5 Stars. Have you read Lakeshire Park? What did you think? Let me know!
Time for our Monthly Wrap Up for the 2020 Series Enders Reading Challenge hosted by Sandy @ Somewhere Only We Know and Holly @ Words Fueled by Love!
Sandy finished Vow of Thieves (Dance of Thieves, # 2) by Mary E Pearson.
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 June giveaway runs from June 25th - July 25th. On July 25th we will use random.org and the linky entries to pull a winner.
Beholden (The Fairest Maidens, # 1)
By: Jody Hedlund
Expected Publication: September 22nd 2020 by Northern Lights Press
194 pages
Genre: Christian Fiction, Fantasy, Retelling
( 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 a land where being the fairest maiden is a curse . . .A beautiful noblewoman with a terrible secret, and a prince subjected to slavery.
Upon the death of her wealthy father, Lady Gabriella is condemned to work in Warwick’s gem mine. As she struggles to survive the dangerous conditions, her kindness and beauty shine as brightly as the jewels the slaves excavate. While laboring, Gabriella plots how to avenge her father’s death and stop Queen Margery’s cruelty.
Prince Vilmar of Scania enslaves himself in Warwick’s gem mine as part of a royal test to prove himself the most worthy of three brothers to become the king’s successor. Amidst the hardships, he doesn’t anticipate his growing compassion for the other slaves, especially tenderhearted Gabriella.
As the annual summer ball looms nearer, Gabriella sets into motion her plan to end Queen Margery’s evil. When Vilmar learns of Gabriella’s intentions, he resolves to come to her aid and fight against Warwick’s queen. But doing so may require him to give up his chance of becoming Scania’s next king, perhaps even cost him his life.
The real Cinderella story.
What are you guys waiting on this week? Let me know!
All the Things We Never Knew
By: Liara Tamani
Publication: June 9th 2020 by Greenwillow Books
384 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--“Tamani masterfully bounces and slams two hearts up and down a shrouded court of first love and revelations. A hard-to-put-down backboard-breaker.”—Rita Williams-Garcia, National Book Award Finalist and New York Times–bestselling authorFrom the moment Carli and Rex first locked eyes on a Texas high school basketball court, they both knew it was destiny. But can you truly love someone else if you don’t love yourself? Acclaimed author Liara Tamani’s luminous second novel explores love, family, heartbreak, betrayal, and the power of healing, in gorgeous prose that will appeal to readers of Nicola Yoon and Jacqueline Woodson.
A glance was all it took. That kind of connection, the immediate and raw understanding of another person, just doesn’t come along very often. And as rising stars on their Texas high schools’ respective basketball teams, destined for bright futures in college and beyond, it seems like a match made in heaven. But Carli and Rex have secrets. As do their families.
Liara Tamani, the author of the acclaimed Calling My Name, follows two Black teenagers as they discover how first love, heartbreak, betrayal, and family can shape you—for better or for worse. A novel full of pain, joy, healing, and hope for fans of Elizabeth Acevedo, Jacqueline Woodson, and Jenny Han.
“A beautifully poignant love letter: to a first love, to basketball, and to that enigmatic bunch we think we know best, only to discover we don’t know at all—family. Tamani’s latest is a bright shining star.”—David Arnold, New York Times–bestselling author of Mosquitoland
I can't say that I believe in soulmates in real life, but I sure do love to read about them. The term "soulmates" was never used in All the Things We Never Knew but in some ways, the concept was there. The description tells you so this is no surprise, but Carli and Rex have an instant connection. But even if you have an instant connection with someone, that doesn't mean that you won't have to work to maintain your relationship. Or that you will never have problems to work through together.
Man Carli and Rex both have so much to work through. Carli looks like she has a perfect life. Mother, father, brother. A homey, comfortable, warm home. But appearances can be deceiving. Her parents are splitting up. Secrets are coming out and she and her brother, Cole, are having to decide which parent they will live with full-time.
Rex's mother died giving birth to him and his father has been essentially absent. Rex feels guilty for his mother's death and he assumes that his Dad resents him for it too. There's so much pain between these two characters.
I appreciated that Liara Tamani forced the characters to work on themselves before their relationship with each other could work. We have to love ourselves before we can love others, right? There were so many pieces of this story. They all affected the main characters, but the pieces weren't all about the main characters.
The only highlights I had were a couple of comments about white people. Guys, racism is real. It isn't always one-sided. I certainly don't have all of the answers. I don't know if we can celebrate our difference and expect everyone to be blind to them at the same time. Again, I do not have the answers, and I do not know what it feels like to be anything other than what I am. I don't have much to say about this other than the fact that I noted these comments. I also highlighted a quote from Khalil Gibran's Prophet which is one of my all-time favorite books.
I will say that I read this book incredibly fast. I didn't want to put it down. Both main characters had a lot of heavy, heart-wrenching things to work through. But I enjoyed the journey. I can't say I didn't have a few issues. I didn't appreciate the dialect, but this isn't a race thing. Go back through my reviews and you will see that this is a consistent thing I complain about. All the Things We Never Knew gets 3.5 Stars. Have you read All the Things We Never Knew? What did you think? Let me know!
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.
This week was good. Busy. I don't remember much of it except Husband coming home early on Wednesday. And then the kids and I went to visit my mom on Thursday. Yesterday was spent cleaning house. We did get to swim almost every day. The water has been cold still because temps are actually mild so far for summer here. Today is my birthday so we're celebrating with my family coming over and swimming. We also always celebrate Father's Day and my brother's birthday which was Friday.
Monday: Review of Today Tonight Tomorrow by Rachel Lynn Solomon (3 Stars)
Tuesday: Top Ten Summer 2020 TBR List
Wednesday: Can't Wait for It Sounded Better in My Head by Nina Kenwood
Thursday: Review of A Gilded Lady (Hope & Glory, # 2) by Elizabeth Camden (4 Stars)
Monday: Review of All the Things We Never Knew by Liara Tamani
Tuesday: Top Ten Tuesday?
Wednesday: Can't Wait for Wednesday
Thursday: 2020 Series Enders Reading Challenge - June Wrap Up
Friday: Review of Lakeshire Park by Megan Walker
Don’t forget to link up for the 2020 Series Enders Reading Challenge! You have until December 15th, 2020 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!
Vying for the Viscount (Hearts on the Heath, # 1)
By: Kristi Ann Hunter
Expected Publication: August 4th 2020 by Bethany House Publishers
352 pages
Genre: Christian Fiction, 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--When a strange man appears to be stealing horses at the neighboring estate, Bianca Snowley jumps to their rescue. And when she discovers he's the new owner, she can't help but be intrigued--but romance is unfeasible when he proposes they help secure spouses for each other. Will they see everything they've wanted has been there all along before it's too late?
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!
A Gilded Lady (Hope and Glory, # 2)
By: Elizabeth Camden
Publication: June 2nd 2020 by Bethany House Publishers
352 pages
Genre: Adult, 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--Secretary to the first lady of the United States, Caroline Delacroix is at the pinnacle of high society--but is hiding a terrible secret. Immediately suspicious of Caroline, but also attracted to her, secret service agent Nathaniel Trask must battle his growing love for her as the threat to the president rises and they face adventure, heartbreak, and danger.
I usually try to avoid coming into the middle of a series without reading the first book. Occasionally, I'll make an exception, but more often than not if it happens it is because I didn't realize the book I've picked up is even in a series. I honestly can't remember what happened with A Gilded Lady. Often when I do come into the middle of a series, I strongly desire to go back and read the previous book(s). In this case, I don't feel strongly about reading The Spice King.
I have to say that I found this entire book so intriguing. Man Elizabeth Camden did her research. The amount of historical information wrapped into her story and characters is top-notch. I found Caroline's job entirely interesting. Nathaniel's too, really. All of the history was presented in such a way that made it so much more interesting than I usually feel.
Favorite quotes:
-"We will stumble and fall and make mistakes time and again, but we can’t wallow in our failure. Someday we have to accept God’s grace to stand up and try again. Nathaniel, you are forgiven.”
-How could she resent the fact that he was back, even if it meant that, on his list of priorities, she would fall somewhere below the Milwaukee assignment and the Holland takedown and possibly even a fine lobster dinner.
-“You are unconditionally loved. Unconditionally forgiven. You are a child of God, deserving of more credit than you’re giving yourself.”
-Failure was a normal part of being human, not a permanent condition. He had been kicked in the teeth, knocked down, and failed. But he had the strength to get back up...
I also have to say that I really appreciated Elizabeth Camden taking the opposite route from what we often see in modern literature. Often times we see characters encouraged to pursue their dream careers at the expense of their relationships, but I like the direction Elizabeth Camden went instead.
Caroline and Nathaniel have a great story. I enjoyed every single minute of it. And even though I don't particularly feel strongly about going back to read Gray's story, I most certainly will be checking out Luke's when it releases. I want to say so much more about A Gilded Lady, but I don't want to spoil it. I'm giving A Gilded Lady 4 Stars. Have you read A Gilded Lady? What did you think? Let me know!
It Sounded Better in My Head
By: Nina Kenwood
Expected Publication: April 7th 2020 by Flatiron Books
272 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--From debut author Nina Kenwood comes a tender, funny, and compulsively readable novel about first love and its confusions, and all of the awkwardness of teen romance.When her parents announce their impending divorce, Natalie can’t understand why no one is fighting, or at least mildly upset. Then Zach and Lucy, her two best friends, hook up, leaving her feeling slightly miffed and decidedly awkward. She’d always imagined she would end up with Zach one day―in the version of her life that played out like a TV show, with just the right amount of banter, pining, and meaningful looks. Now everything has changed, and nothing is quite making sense. Until an unexpected romance comes along and shakes things up even further.
It Sounded Better in My Head is a compulsively readable love letter to teenage romance in all of its awkward glory, perfect for fans To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before and Emergency Contact.
What are you guys waiting on this week? Let me know!
Top Ten Tuesday was created by The Broke and the Bookish in June of 2010 and was moved to That Artsy Reader Girl in January of 2018. It was born of a love of lists, a love of books, and a desire to bring bookish friends together. This week's topic is Top Ten Summer 2020 TBR List.
Which books are on your Summer 2020 to-be-read list? Let me know!
Today Tonight Tomorrow
By: Rachel Lynn Solomon
Publication: June 16th 2020 by Simon Pulse
384 pages
Genre: Young 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--The Hating Game meets Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist by way of Morgan Matson in this unforgettable romantic comedy about two rival overachievers whose relationship completely transforms over the course of twenty-four hours.Today, she hates him.
It’s the last day of senior year. Rowan Roth and Neil McNair have been bitter rivals for all of high school, clashing on test scores, student council elections, and even gym class pull-up contests. While Rowan, who secretly wants to write romance novels, is anxious about the future, she’d love to beat her infuriating nemesis one last time.
Tonight, she puts up with him.
When Neil is named valedictorian, Rowan has only one chance at victory: Howl, a senior class game that takes them all over Seattle, a farewell tour of the city she loves. But after learning a group of seniors is out to get them, she and Neil reluctantly decide to team up until they’re the last players left—and then they’ll destroy each other.
As Rowan spends more time with Neil, she realizes he’s much more than the awkward linguistics nerd she’s sparred with for the past four years. And, perhaps, this boy she claims to despise might actually be the boy of her dreams.
Tomorrow…maybe she’s already fallen for him.
*Warning: My opinions aren't always in alignment with what is popular. Considering the racial issues plaguing our country and the world right now, some of the opinions in this book review may come off as insensitive or harsh. I do not mean them as so. I am only addressing the characters in this book and statements made within and not a statement on racism or diversity as a whole.
Boy oh boy, where to begin? I guess let me start with the premise. Rowan and Neil have been competing against each other since freshman year. Neil won a book report that spurred Rowan's competitive side and the two have gone up against each other for nearly every grade, award, and position since leading up to Valedictorian. Part of their school's rituals is that the junior class creates a scavenger hunt game for the senior class called Howl which takes place between the last day of school and graduation. At first, Rowan sees this opportunity as one last chance to beat Neil, but when she hears Savannah (number 3 in their class) complaining to a group about how Rowan and Neil always win everything and how they need to team up to take them down, Rowan and Neil decide to pair up. Great idea. I love everything about this plot.
But the execution wasn't flawless for me.
Rowan and Neil were both complicated. Rowan is having trouble letting go of high school. She has a love for romance books and is writing one of her own now despite her parents, friends, and even Neil making fun of the genre. But I absolutely hated the political pieces involved that didn't do anything to enhance or advance the story. I'll discuss those more in a bit. Neil was so much more complex than Rowan originally thought. He had a reason beyond wanting to be the best that motivated his side of the competition with her. From his very appearance to the smallest details, I felt like Rachel Lynn Solomon addressed them all with him.
I despise politics in my books. I've mentioned before how I often read to escape the issues of real-life and so bringing politics into stories like this bring me down. I mean let's just throw in a checklist for political issues: vegetarian/vegan, gay rights, gender equality, diversity for diversity's sake, green, feminism, toxic masculinity, sexual freedom for women (for lack of a better term), marijuana usage, and probably more. I'm not going to address all of these political pieces because I've either addressed them before or simply for time's sake. But I feel like I can't let all of this slide. People how much louder can I scream to read what you like. Read what you want. I don't read books by a diverse group of authors about a diverse group of characters simply for that sake. I read books that the description sounds good to me without noting what the race or gender of the authors or characters is. I also take issue with feminism and male toxicity. While I feel strongly about supporting women (hello, I am one) I just don't relate with much of what feminist that I've been exposed to are championing in the name of women's rights. And I certainly don't agree with putting men down simply because women have been oppressed in the past. We don't punish one group of people simply because a different group of people has been oppressed in the past. Which ironically enough plays into a statement that Rowan made herself concerning her being Jewish.
-"People here go out of their way to try to make you feel comfortable, and by doing that, they sometimes alienate you even more."
This isn't exactly political but I also wanted to address another comment Rowan made regarding the Jewish community in Seattle. She laments that there are only 4 other Jewish kids (in her class or in her school, I can't remember which). I can certainly understand feeling yourself to be in a minority. I went to a small church growing up and a small school. And there was only one other kid close to my age in my church and thus in my school. But Rowan laments that there are only two synagogues in Seattle but churches are much more common. Her exact quote:
-In our city of nearly eight hundred thousand people, we get two. Within three blocks of my house, there are five churches.
And I just wondered when I was reading this, who is to "blame" for this? Who is responsible for building synagogues? Should non-Jewish people go around asking "hey, I noticed there are only two synagogues in the city, do you guys need us to build more for you?" I mean if the point is just to mention that the character feels isolated in this aspect of her life then fine I'll allow that, but you can't fault people who are in the majority (or simply not in your minority) for you feeling isolated. It isn't anyone's fault. This is one of those things that just is what it is. I guess I just felt like it wasn't clear why this was addressed in the book in this way because it came across as Rowan was "blaming" others for being different from her even while she champions diversity for diversity's sake in literature. Or maybe diversity for diversity's sake is simply about excluding the majority of any group.
And what is the most frustrating part to me is that even though these political stances were sprinkled through the entire book, they weren't what the majority of the book was about. And for the most part, they didn't drive the story or the characters so they were simply included because the author wanted to address them. Which makes sense given her mention of the 2016 election in her author's notes. Despite all of these things, the rest of the book was enjoyable.
I felt pulled in to the characters, their prior conflict, the game they were playing, and the hope that these two kids could figure things out. The process was definitely enjoyable. Rachel Lynn Solomon did a great job of establishing a history between Rowan and Neil. Yet things still progress so fast in the 24 hours that the book focuses on. We move from animosity to a fragile friendship to a crush to love. It's just a bit too fast even though the typical "I think I've loved you for a long time" line. And that's not to even mention the progression of their physical relationship. It's just too much too soon.
Quotes to support:
-While I love romance, I’ve never believed in the concept of soul mates, which has always seemed a little like men’s rights activism: not a real thing.
-Ms. Grable, who must only be in her late twenties, ensured our reading list was majority women and authors of color.
-She got me through my grandpa’s funeral in seventh grade, and I was the first person she came out to in ninth grade, when she said she’d only ever liked girls. The following year, Mara told both of us that she was bisexual and wanted to start using that label for herself.
-McNair insisted the English department needed new copies of A White Man in Peril (okay, the books have real titles, but that’s what they’re all about), while I argued we should use the money for books by women and authors of color.
-chivalry is outdated and I am not a fan
-As co-president, she campaigned for all-gender restrooms, and she also was responsible for helping the school become a little greener.
-My kingdom for more guys who can express physical affection without needing to justify their masculinity afterward.
-"...And then it’s so much worse for women. We’re told to shrug off compliments, to scoff when someone tells us we’re good at something. We shrink ourselves, convince ourselves what we’re creating doesn’t actually matter.”
-Good girls aren’t supposed to have sex, but if they don’t, they’re prudes, and if they do, they’re sluts.
That last quote is another thing. Society in the past has recognized that men are very physical and have written off men having multiple sexual partners as normal. And while it is true that there has been a disparity between the view of men versus women with multiple sexual partners, I don't think the answer is for women to take a cavalier attitude towards sex. Perhaps men need to take more responsibility for controlling themselves. Sex outside of marriage is a rampant cultural thing right now and I'm in the minority to think we could go back to that, but I don't think allowing more sexual promiscuity for women so that we match that of men is the answer.
Today Tonight Tomorrow had such a strong premise. I was pulled in to the characters, their histories, the possibilities for their future, and the game they were playing. But I was pulled out of the story time and time again over these political issues that the author wanted to include that had nothing to do with the story. So ultimately I'm torn in what my rating should be. In the end, I decided 3 Stars was the best match for my rating system. Have you read Today Tonight Tomorrow? What did you think? Let me know!
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.
It's been a good week. Husband was off work this week to start work on building a fence around our pool. It rained the first three days this week though. And his lumber delivery was delayed until Saturday. My mom kept the kids for us Wednesday and Thursday nights and Friday during the day. I got a lot accomplished. I pressure washed the concrete around the pool, sanded and spray painted our patio furniture, and mowed the grass. Well Husband and I tag-teamed mowing the grass. I haven't re-read any books in years, but over the last week I've re-read A Court of Thorns and Roses and A Court of Mist and Fury by Sarah J Maas.
Monday: Review of The Marriage Game by Sarah Desai
Wednesday: Can't Wait for Midnight Sun (Twilight, # 5) by Stephenie Meyer
Thursday: Review of A Single Spark by Judith McCoy Miller (3 Stars)
Monday: Review of Today, Tonight, Tomorrow by Rachel Lynn Solomon
Tuesday: Top Ten Tuesday?
Wednesday: Can't Wait for Wednesday
Thursday: Review of A Gilded Lady (Hope & Glory, # 2) by Elizabeth Camden
Don’t forget to link up for the 2020 Series Enders Reading Challenge! You have until December 15th, 2020 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!
Fair as a Star
By: Mimi Matthews
Expected Publication: July 14th 2020 by Perfectly Proper Press
202 pages
Genre: Adult, 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--From USA Today bestselling author Mimi Matthews comes a Victorian tale of love and longing in a quaint English village.A Secret Burden…
After a mysterious sojourn in Paris, Beryl Burnham has returned home to the village of Shepton Worthy ready to resume the life she left behind. Betrothed to the wealthy Sir Henry Rivenhall, she has no reason to be unhappy—or so people keep reminding her. But Beryl’s life isn’t as perfect as everyone believes.
A Longstanding Love…
As village curate, Mark Rivenhall is known for his compassionate understanding. When his older brother’s intended needs a shoulder to lean on, Mark’s more than willing to provide one. There’s no danger of losing his heart. He already lost that to Beryl a long time ago.
During an idyllic Victorian summer, friends and family gather in anticipation of Beryl and Sir Henry’s wedding. But in her darkest moment, it’s Mark who comes to Beryl’s aid. Can he help her without revealing his feelings—or betraying his brother?
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!
A Single Spark
By: Judith McCoy Miller
Publication: June 2nd 2020 by Bethany House Publishers
384 pages
Genre: Adult, 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--Wanting to do her part in the Civil War effort, Clara McBride goes to work in the cartridge room at the Washington Arsenal. Her supervisor, Lieutenant Joseph Brady, is drawn to Clara but must focus on preventing explosions in the factory. When multiple shipments of cartridges fail to fire and everyone is suspect, can the spark of love between them survive?
A Single Spark had a lot going for it. I don't always enjoy reading about the Civil War period, but the description seemed to go in a completely different direction than the issues I usually have with the time. I've been branching out more and more with my historical fiction reads, and I really liked the unique idea of reading about the Arsenal, the women who worked there, and the idea of creating ammunition that would be used in the war. So many unique things. The caution needed in such a job due to the extreme danger of explosions.
Clara is easily likable. She's well versed in different areas of the ammunition creation process in the Arsenal. She has a working history with Lt. Brady, but until he's sent on a mission to learn from a more productive arsenal, the two haven't had much a personal relationship. Clara has a history and I wouldn't say that she was a flat character, but her history and person could have been fleshed out a little more. I felt like Judith McCoy Miller spent more time delving into who Joseph was and how his experiences have crafted who he is currently. But the relationship between Clara and Joseph felt a little flat to me. I think the biggest problem for me was a lot of telling and not a lot of showing. The characters certainly spent time together, but we didn't get to see too much depth between them leading up to the level of relationship they claimed to be at.
I find that I often struggle with books where the villain (or one of the villains) narrate. I understand that these characters have a unique perspective, but I tend to struggle through their sections of the book. At times, I actually found Bea's sections more interesting than the other narrators (Joseph and Clara), but that was a little bit due to not completely knowing which direction Bea was going to go. I found her big villain revelation speech at the end of the book to feel a little out of character. So much of Bea's sections included a mix of espionage combined with self-preservation, but I felt like all of that blew with the wind when Bea had the opportunity to gloat rather than attempt to save her skin.
Favorite quotes:
-"Decision making can be a lonely and crushing business."
-"You want to see only good in [...], yet she truly isn't deserving of your unwavering loyalty."..."The Bible says a friend loves at all times. We don't get to pick and choose when that is convenient." "But we do get to choose the company we keep."
A Single Spark was one of those books that focused more on the plot than the romance. I've mentioned before that this isn't wrong, but it just isn't my personal reading preferences. I would rather read a book driven by a relationship than some elaborate plot. The romance certainly fell flat for me. I also felt the dialogue was stilted at times. I feel like A Single Spark could have benefited more from showing versus telling when it comes to the relationship, and similarly, could have used a little less description of the ammunition creation process. A Single Spark gets 3 Stars. It wasn't bad, but I did feel a little disappointed that it wasn't as good as I hoped. Have you read A Single Spark? What did you think? Let me know!
