Monday, January 30, 2023

Georgie, All Along - Review

Georgie, All Along

By: Kate Clayborn

Publication: January 24th 2023 by Kensington

352 pages

Genre: 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 acclaimed author of Love Lettering weaves a wise and witty new novel that echoes with timely questions about love, career, reconciling with the past, and finding your path while knowing your true worth.

Longtime personal assistant Georgie Mulcahy has made a career out of putting others before herself. When an unexpected upheaval sends her away from her hectic job in L.A. and back to her hometown, Georgie must confront an uncomfortable truth: her own wants and needs have always been a disconcertingly blank page.

But then Georgie comes across a forgotten artifact—a “friendfic” diary she wrote as a teenager, filled with possibilities she once imagined. To an overwhelmed Georgie, the diary’s simple, small-scale ideas are a lifeline—a guidebook for getting started on a new path.

Georgie’s plans hit a snag when she comes face to face with an unexpected roommate—Levi Fanning, onetime town troublemaker and current town hermit. But this quiet, grouchy man is more than just his reputation, and he offers to help Georgie with her quest. As the two make their way through her wishlist, Georgie begins to realize that what she truly wants might not be in the pages of her diary after all, but right by her side—if only they can both find a way to let go of the pasts that hold them back.

Honest and deeply emotional, Georgie, All Along is a smart, tender must-read for everyone who’s ever wondered about the life that got away . . .

I read Kate Clayborn's previous book, Love Lettering. I enjoyed it, but I remember feeling like I wasn't sure she would be an author that I repeated. I can't even remember why I felt that way, but I didn't immediately jump on Georgie, All Along simply because I wasn't a fan of the author. Sometimes I read a book by a new author and immediately know I will read more of their books. But I didn't feel that way about Kate Clayborn even though I enjoyed Love Lettering. I initially decided to pass on Georgie, All Along but something changed my mind, and I picked it up.

Georgie has recently been let go from her position as personal assistant to an actress. The actress has decided to go back to a "normal," quiet life and no longer has a need for a personal assistant. She hints that Georgie will be able to focus on herself and do things she's always wanted to do for herself. But the problem is that Georgie has never known what those things are. She never had a big plan for after high school. She feels a bit blank. Her high school best friend has moved back to their hometown and is expecting her first baby. Georgie plans to help her set up her house and prepare for the baby. Only once she gets there, everything is pretty much already done. And once again, she isn't needed. That's when she finds the old fiction story that she and Bel were writing in high school, and Georgie feels inspired to go back and do some of the things her teenage self imagined doing that she never got around to doing.

I was worried this would be like a bucket list story. And in some ways, it is. But mostly, it didn't feel like one, and that's good for me because I don't always enjoy bucket list stories. Georgie isn't trying to do all these things simply because she never did them. She's trying to find the answers that have her feeling like something is missing. Some of the things she does with Bel and some she does with Levi.

Speaking of Levi, he has the most interesting story in the whole book. He was basically a troublemaker as a kid. Most of the things he did out of spite towards his dad. And his dad disowned him for it. And since he's been in some way or other trying to live his life in a way that proves he's worthy. He had the furthest to go. Although Georgie, via Bel, has a big revelation about herself also.

One gripe...if I may. There's no mistaking what side of the political fence Kate Clayborn is on. Recreational marijuana usage, hippy parents, Prius, no air conditioning, natural peanut butter, gluten-free bread, mushrooms, composting vs waste, LGBT, sustainability, polyamory, climate change, protesting animal dissection. Not all of these things are liberal agendas, but put together they sure do seem to press a particular message to the reader. Maybe Kate Clayborn was trying to write a specific type of character. Maybe. I doubt it though. I will say that these mentions felt like they fit the story better than some other authors who try to throw the whole political checklist into their books. (I'm thinking of you Today, Tonight, Tomorrow.)

To go with that, Georige, All Along was the first book I've read with a character who has "they/them" pronouns, and boy, did it throw me for a loop. I really thought it was a typo until it kept happening. I meant I didn't have a clue how this mess of a grammar mistake could make it past the editors even for a first draft. But then I realized it was on purpose, and I wanted to bang my head against the wall every time I stumbled upon a they/them reference. Another discussion for another day, but this seriously pulled me out of the story every single time.

Favorite quotes:

-"I'm sure sorry for the confusion here," says Paul. "I put you both in an awkward situation, didn't I?" He doesn't know the half of it. I've seen his daughter in a state of undress, and many dog's worn a pair of her underpants.

-But there's an old war inside me now, and the Levi I want to be is losing.

-Hank's always been good at reminding me how happiness looks.

So here's the thing, when I pull out the liberal political agendas, I was hooked into this story. Even the hippy parents were fun characters to read about. I liked Georgie even though she's about as different from me as they come. I liked Levi and his struggles and his journey. I enjoyed the relationship and the conflict about overcoming our past traumas. I still enjoyed the story enough to rate this one 4 Stars. But I'm conflicted over who to recommend this to. I guess if you don't like politics in your books, skip it. If it doesn't bother you, then maybe this one will be a winner for you. Have you read Georgie, All Along? What did you think? Let me know!

Sunday, January 29, 2023

2023 Series Enders Reading Challenge - January Wrap Up

Time for our Monthly Wrap Up for the 2023 Series Enders Reading Challenge hosted by Sandy @ Somewhere Only We Know and Holly @ Words Fueled by Love!

Neither Sandy nor Holly have 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 January giveaway runs from January 25th - February 25th. On February 25th we will use random.org and the linky entries to pull a grand prize winner.

You are invited to the Inlinkz link party!

Click here to enter

Wednesday, January 25, 2023

Can't Wait for Happy Place

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.

Happy Place

By: Emily Henry

Expected Publication: April 25th 2023 by Berkley

400 pages

Genre: 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--A couple who broke up months ago make a pact to pretend to still be together for their annual weeklong vacation with their best friends in this glittering and wise new novel from #1 New York Times bestselling author Emily Henry.

Harriet and Wyn have been the perfect couple since they met in college—they go together like salt and pepper, honey and tea, lobster and rolls. Except, now—for reasons they’re still not discussing—they don’t.

They broke up six months ago. And still haven’t told their best friends.

Which is how they find themselves sharing the largest bedroom at the Maine cottage that has been their friend group’s yearly getaway for the last decade. Their annual respite from the world, where for one vibrant, blue week they leave behind their daily lives; have copious amounts of cheese, wine, and seafood; and soak up the salty coastal air with the people who understand them most.

Only this year, Harriet and Wyn are lying through their teeth while trying not to notice how desperately they still want each other. Because the cottage is for sale and this is the last week they’ll all have together in this place. They can’t stand to break their friends’ hearts, and so they’ll play their parts. Harriet will be the driven surgical resident who never starts a fight, and Wyn will be the laid-back charmer who never lets the cracks show. It’s a flawless plan (if you look at it from a great distance and through a pair of sunscreen-smeared sunglasses). After years of being in love, how hard can it be to fake it for one week…in front of those who know you best?

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

Sunday, January 22, 2023

Sunday Post - 01/22/23

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.

Little Boy and Baby Boy have been battling runny noses and coughs. Baby Boy has been waking at least once during the night 5 out of the last 7 nights. While he goes back to sleep fairly easily, the disrupted sleep has started to wear on me. Monday the kids were out of school, and we just had a nice day home and playing outside. Monday night was really rough as far as sleep goes for Baby Boy and thus Husband and I. So Tuesday we were very lazy. It was needed, but I don't like having days like that regularly because I need to be productive. I had errands to run Wednesday. I dropped off a prescription at the pharmacy and went ahead and did my grocery pick up instead of my normal Saturday. Thursday we went to my parent's house to spend the day. My mom was also babysitting my great-niece. She's just turned one in December, so she was super fun for the boys to play with. Friday, Little Boy had a playdate with a friend after school. We went to a Burger King nearby that has a playplace and then to the park. The boys had so much fun. Saturday was Baby Boy's 2nd birthday. I cannot believe he's two already. He'll always be my baby, but he's growing up too fast already. The big kids had basketball games. The church where they play basketball has a playground so we let them play for a little while after their games. We impromptu decided to get pizza for lunch. Baby Boy had a great birthday.

THE PAST WEEK:

Monday: Review of Reforming Lord Neil (Inglewood, # 5) by Sally Britton (4 Stars)
Wednesday: Can't Wait for Return to Satterthwaite Court (Somerset Stories, # 3) by Mimi Matthews

UPCOMING THIS WEEK:

Monday: Review of Georgie, All Along by Kate Clayborn
Tuesday: Top Ten Tuesday?
Wednesday: Can't Wait for Wednesday?

Don’t forget to link up for the 2023 Series Enders Reading Challenge! You have until December 15th, 2023 to sign 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!

NEW BOOKS:

Mr. Gardiner and the Governess (Clairvoir Castle Romances, # 1)

By: Sally Britton

Expected Publication: November 25th 2020 by Pink Citrus Books

228 pages

Genre: Adult, Historical Fiction, Regency

Source: YouTube Audiobooks

( 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--A duke’s governess, a gentleman entomologist, and a castle full of flowers is the perfect setting for a summer romance. As the new governess to the duke's family, Alice Sharpe must learn to control her impulsiveness. Employment in the duke’s household is a once in a lifetime opportunity, and could mean living in comfort the rest of her days. Unfortunately, her first encounter with the duke's houseguest, a handsome gentleman obsessed with insects, proves she may not be ready for the austere role of governess.

Rupert Gardiner has one goal: to have his work in entomology and botany published by the Royal Society. He is fortunate that the Duke of Montfort, believes in him and enlists Rupert to make a record of all the flora on the castle grounds. But Miss Sharpe’s spontaneity and continual appearance during his work is an annoying distraction. At least, that’s what he tells himself.

While Alice struggles to adapt to her new role, constantly striving to go unnoticed while still being herself, she cannot help but admire Rupert’s intelligence and focus. The more often they fall in together, the more her admiration deepens. But could a gentleman such as he ever fall in love with the governess?

As the first stand-alone novel in a new series by author Sally Britton, this story begins the Clairvoir Castle romances. This is a light-hearted series set in the Regency period.

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, January 18, 2023

Can't Wait for Return to Satterthwaite Court

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.

Return to Satterthwaite Court (Somerset Stories, # 3)

By: Mimi Matthews

Expected Publication: April 11th 2023 by Perfectly Proper Press

? 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--A reckless Victorian heiress sets her sights on a dashing ex-naval lieutenant, determined to win his heart as the two of them embark on a quest to solve a decades-old mystery in the long-awaited sequel to USA Today bestselling author Mimi Matthews’s critically acclaimed novels The Work of Art and Gentleman Jim.

Lieutenant Charles Heywood has had his fill of adventure. Battle-weary and disillusioned, he returns to England, resolved to settle down to a quiet, uneventful life on an estate of his own. But arranging to purchase the property he desires is more difficult than Charles ever imagined. The place is mired in secrets, some of which may prove deadly. If he’s going to unravel them, he’ll need the assistance of someone as daring as he is.

At only twenty, Lady Katherine Beresford has already earned a scandalous reputation. As skilled with pistols as she is on horseback, she’s never met an obstacle she can’t surmount—or a man she can’t win. That is, until she encounters the infuriatingly somber Lieutenant Heywood. But Kate refuses to be deterred by the raven-haired soldier’s strong, silent facade. After all, faint heart never won handsome gentleman.

From the wilds of rural Somersetshire to the glittering ballrooms of early-Victorian London, Charles and Kate embark on a cross-country quest to solve a decades’ old mystery. Will the greatest danger be to their hearts—or to their lives?

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

Monday, January 16, 2023

Reforming Lord Neil - Review

Reforming Lord Niel (Inglewood, # 5)

By: Sally Britton

Publication: May 16th 2020 by Blue Water Books

256 pages

Genre: Adult, Historical Fiction

Source: Personal Kindle Library

( 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--An arrogant lord cut-off by his family. A penniless widow in desperate need. In their reduced circumstances, can love save them both?

Lord Neil Duncan, third son of the Marquess of Alderton, finally angers his father enough to be cut off from the family. Neil believes it is only a matter of time before he is reinstated, but time is passing slowly and he needs to eat. His so-called friends have abandoned him, no one else trusts him, and it is not until he comes upon a young widow that he finds someone who needs his help as badly as he needs hers.

Teresa Clapham has been without a husband's provision and protection for over a year. Supporting her mother and daughter on the pittance her brother-in-law provides has required her to stretch every farthing. When Lord Neil arrives at her doorstep proposing he work for her to earn his keep, she sees possibility in the man everyone else has deemed an arrogant good-for-nothing.

As Lord Neil works for the first time in his life, Teresa sees in him a tender heart long repressed by his family's expectations - a heart that causes her own to open once more. But her brother-in-law Frederick Clapham is less charmed by Teresa's new servant. When Lord Neil discovers the secret Mr. Clapham has been keeping, he must decide whether to embrace the man Teresa believes him to be, or fall back on the privileged lifestyle he's always known.

Neil has been a side character in this series from the beginning. He has been the villain you loved to hate in book 1, and through each subsequent book the reader wonders how much more there is to his character. He never faulted Hope for the curicle accident that his sister did in book 2. He looked out for Millicent in book 4 when his sister was determined to use her only for her own pleasure. So we have to wonder what his true heart and soul is like.

At the beginning of Reforming Lord Niel his father cuts him off from the family. It seems as if he had decided on this action and provoked Neil into an argument in order to execute his plan. I'm not sure if he saw Neil as a liability to his political aspirations, or if he found out that he was not Neil's natural father. Either way, Neil discovers he has fewer friends than he once believed. Practicality leads him to the place he ends up.

Teresa is a widow and mother. Her husband, Henry, apparently gambled away her dowry and left her penniless. Although she did inherit a farm from another relative. Teresa, her mother, and her daughter live on and work the farm themselves. They can't afford help, and winter is quickly approaching. When Lord Neil offers his labor in exchange for staying in the hay loft of her barn and eating meals with her family, she accepts. Of course these two develop feelings for one another. I feel like to say much more than this would be spoilers.

I liked that Neil didn't always have the best character. It's not like he had some pure motives when he approached Esther back in book 1. But he also was not seeking to destroy her marriage either. He was lonely and following in the footsteps he'd witnessed from both his father and mother. Through his hard work on the farm, he develops a deeper and stronger character. He becomes a truer version of himself--who he always was capable of being. Nicholeen Peck quotes someone else, "Work is the antidote to a sick character." And while I don't necessarily believe that to always be the case, it certainly does help teach life lessons and guide. Work is a producer of natural consequences.

Favorite quotes:

-It seemed he would forever attempt friendly relationships with the wrong people.

-"Mr. Duncan, we cannot judge others so harshly. Perhaps a misplaced cushion is the only tragedy they have ever known. They have nothing greater to measure it against."

-"Any woman will tell you, Mr. Duncan, that their children come into this life with personalities."

-"I have learned to be still when nothing I say or do can change the outcome."

I love a good redemption story. And Lord Neil did a wonderful turn around from where he started in the series to where he ended up. I enjoyed his journey. I loved Teresa, and her daughter. The whole story was just wholesome and heart warming. Reforming Lord Neil gets 4 Stars. Have you read Reforming Lord Neil? What did you think? Let me know!

Sunday, January 15, 2023

Sunday Post - 01/15/23

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.

Monday was a super busy day. I took the kids to school. Came home and went for a walk. Then I went to get Little Boy from school, took the boys to Chick-fil-a for lunch, and then took them both to get haircuts. I got back home just in time to put Baby Boy down for a nap and turn around and go get Little Girl. I'm so thankful Husband works from home now. Tuesday was fairly normal. We took my car to the shop to get an alignment. We had to leave it for pretty much the whole day. After school, Husband's mom and sister came by to visit since his sister was in town from Georgia. Wednesday was basically my only normal day of the week. Thursday, it was super windy in the morning so I just let the boys play outside instead of going for a walk. I raked leaves trying to prepare for tons of wind expected with bad weather later that day. I kept waiting for the school to release the kids early due to severe weather, but they never did. By the time I was about determined to go get Little Girl myself, the weather was upon us. It got here about an hour earlier than predicted. And central Alabama had tornadoes all across the state. Our direct area wasn't affected, but within our school district a little north of us got hit as well as Selma, Alabama. Selma got hit really bad. My neice's husband is a firefighter in Selma. Friday was a pretty normal day also now that I think about it. The kids had their second basketball games Saturday morning.

THE PAST WEEK:

Monday: Review of A Hard Day for a Hangover (Sunshine Vicram, # 3) by Darynda Jones
Tuesday: Top Ten Most Anticipated Releases Q1/Q2 2023
Wednesday: Can't Wait for The Last Chance Cowboy (Colorado Cowboys, # 5) by Jody Hedlund
Thursday: 2022 EOY Book Survey

UPCOMING THIS WEEK:

Monday: Review of Reforming Lord Neil (Inglewood, # 5) by Sally Britton
Tuesday: Top Ten Tuesday?
Wednesday: Can't Wait for Wednesday?

Don’t forget to link up for the 2023 Series Enders Reading Challenge! You have until December 15th, 2023 to sign 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!

NEW BOOKS:

Borrow My Heart (Borrow My Heart, # 1)

By: Kasie West

Expected Publication: June 13th 2023 by Delacorte Press

320 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--When a girl overhears a guy getting verbally destroyed by his friends for being catfished, she jumps in to save the day--and pretends to be his online crush. A young adult romance from the critically acclaimed author of Places We've Never Been.

Wren is used to being called a control freak. She doesn't care; sticking to the list of rules she created for herself helps her navigate life. But when a cute guy named Asher walks through the door of her neighborhood coffee shop, the rulebook goes out the window.

Asher is cute, charming . . . and being catfished by his online crush. So Wren makes an uncharacteristically impulsive decision--she pretends to be the girl he's waiting for to save him from embarrassment. Suddenly she's fake-dating a boy she knows nothing about. And it's . . . amazing.

It's not long before Asher has her breaking even more of her own rules. But will he forgive her when he finds out she's not who she says she is? Wren's not so sure. . . . After all, rules exist for a reason.

Wyoming Wild

By: Sarah M Eden

Expected Publication: March 7th 2023 by Shadow Mountain

256 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--Hearts collide when a sheriff’s daughter asks a hardened US Marshal to join her fight for justice and rid a small town of her corrupt father.

Wyoming Territory, 1876

US Marshal John “Hawk” Hawking is one of the most respected lawmen in the West, so when a telegram arrives from the small town of Sand Creek warning him of a death threat against him, he immediately begins an investigation.

Posing as a farmer, Hawk heads to Sand Creek, a town ruled by a violent and corrupt sheriff. Only one person is trying to stop him—Liesl, the sheriff’s own daughter. When she meets the self-assured and attractive new farmer, John, she hopes he might help her in the fight for justice.

John is completely unfazed by Sheriff Hodges’s attempts at intimidation, and Liesl is quickly swept up by Hawk’s courage and integrity. Just as quickly, Hawk finds himself falling for Liesl’s strength and bravery, as well as her grace and beauty.

When Liesl discovers John’s true identity, she feels betrayed. Despite her lingering distrust of him, Liesl agrees to work with him to enact a dangerous plan that will put the criminals away forever. Liesl must put her life, and her heart, in the hands of his lawman if she has any hope of saving her family and her town.

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!

Thursday, January 12, 2023

2022 Book Survey

Jamie, The Perpetual Page Turner created this EOY Book Survey. I've participated several years (2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021). I enjoy the survey so much that I am here again for 2022. Oh and feel free to join in and do your own survey. Just link back to Jamie.

2022 Reading Stats

53 books read (including a few children's books)
0 book re-read
Genre Read the Most From? Adult, Historical Fiction

Books

1. Best book you read?


Breath as Prayer by Jennifer Tucker
Forgiving What You Can't Forget by Lysa TerKerst
Reminders of Him by Colleen Hoover
Raising Grateful Kids in an Entitled World by Kristen Welch

2. Book you were excited about & thought you were going to love more but didn’t?


Crossed Lines (Love Along the Wires, # 2) by Jennifer Delamere
Meet Me in the Middle by Alex Light
Sword of Rage (Reigning Kingdoms, # 1) by Jennifer Anne Davis

3. Most surprising (in a good or bad way) book you read?


A Fate of Wrath & Flame (Fate & Flame, # 1) by KA Tucker

4. Book you read that you recommended to people the most?


Breath as Prayer by Jennifer Tucker

5. Best series discovered? Best Sequel? Best series ender?



Series:


A Fate of Wrath & Flame (Fate & Flame, # 1) by KA Tucker
Gilded (Gilded, # 1) by Marissa Meyer

Sequel:


A Hard Day for a Hangover (Sunshine Vicram, # 3) by Darynda Jones
The War of Two Queens (Blood & Ash, # 4) by Jennifer L Armentrout
A Curse of Blood & Stone (Fate & Flame, # 2) by KA Tucker

Ender:


Holding the Line (Love Along the Wires, # 3) by Jennifer Delamere

6. Favorite new author you discovered?

Elizabeth W Watkins

7. Best book that was out of your comfort zone or was a new genre for you?


I Am: 40 Reasons to Trust God by Diane Stortz

8. Most thrilling, unputdownable book?


A Fate of Wrath & Flame (Fate & Flame, # 1) by KA Tucker
A Curse of Blood & Stone (Fate & Flame, # 2) by KA Tucker
The War of Two Queens (Blood & Ash, # 4) by Jennifer L Armentrout
Reminders of Him by Colleen Hoover
A Hard Day for a Hangover (Sunshine Vicram, # 3) by Darynda Jones

9. Book you read that you are most likely to re-read next year?

Hardly any time for re-reads.

10. Favorite cover of a book you read?


I Am: 40 Reasons to Trust God by Diane Stortz

11. Most memorable character?

Kenna - Reminders of Him by Colleen Hoover

12. Most beautifully written book read?

Forgiving What You Can't Forget by Lysa TerKeurst

13. Book that had the greatest impact on you?


Forgiving What You Can't Forget by Lysa TerKeurst

Breath as Prayer by Jennifer Tucker

14. Book you can’t believe you waited UNTIL this year to finally read?


Sword of Rage (Reigning Kingdoms, # 1) by Jennifer Anne Davis
Crossed Lines (Love Along the Wires, # 2) by Jennifer Delamere
The Heart's Charge (Hanger's Horsemen, # 2) by Karen Witemeyer ****

15. Favorite passage/quote from a book you read?


-"After all, why be accommodating when one can be difficult?” - Gilded (Gilded, # 1) by Marissa Meyer

-“Oh no. Not until you tell me what happens next.” She huffed. “I don’t know what happens next.” His expression was priceless. A little dismayed, a little horrified. “How can you not know? It’s your story.” “Not every story is willing to reveal itself right away. Some of them are bashful.” - Gilded (Gilded, # 1) by Marissa Meyer

-The man took my ardently felt monologue, gave it a polite pat on the head, and told it to go and play while the adults stayed on task. - Meet Me in the Margins by Melissa Ferguson

-Writing is what makes me happy. Writing, even, is how I feel I contribute to the world. Reminding people of what's important. Letting them escape the harsh parts of life, even if just for a few hours. Feeling happiness in watching happily-ever-afters unfold. Remembering truths. Recalling their self-worth. Loving others. Living well. Learning. I want to do that. - Meet Me in the Margins by Melissa Ferguson

-A gift bestowed by God couldn't be stolen by man. Or woman. It might be neglected or stifled, but never stolen. - The Heart's Charge (Hanger's Horsemen, # 2) by Karen Witemeyer

-"Lessons taught from love bring wisdom. Lessons spawned from fear and pain often come with cynicism and bitterness attached, which can cloud the truth." - The Heart's Charge (Hanger's Horsemen, # 2) by Karen Witemeyer

-"Satan uses loneliness to isolate and depress. But God uses it to build compassion." - The Heart's Charge (Hanger's Horsemen, # 2) by Karen Witemeyer

-...a man considering a commitment to one woman should not behave in a way that could lead her to believe him fickle in his affections. Nor should he give another woman reason to believe his interest lay anywhere other than where it did. - The Heart's Charge (Hanger's Horsemen, # 2) by Karen Witemeyer

-"I hardly think my independence is affecting the construction of your sentences." - Enchanting the Heiress (Hearts on the Heath, # 3) by Kristi Ann Hunter

-"Your brain doesn't speak for all brains." - Always Jane by Jenn Bennett

-“You have consumed my thoughts since the moment I met you,” he said to her. “I feel now, in your presence, entirely strange. I think I might fetch you the moon if only to spare your tears again.” - This Woven Kingdom (This Woven Kingdom, # 1) by Tahereh Mafi

-Anger, it would seem, did not invite contentment when freed. - Edward and Amelia by Karen Thornell

-But love, unfortunately, turns bitter when not properly cared for. - Edward and Amelia by Karen Thornell

-She’d grown to admire Hades’s resilience, strength, and perseverance. He cared about his band, his mares and foals, and led them with dignity. And now he glanced in their direction. He nodded, as though communicating with them. Did he know they’d chased him only because they wanted to save his life? Did he realize the fear of the past couple of days would lead to his freedom? Maybe he’d never understand what they’d done, but she liked to think he was thanking them for their efforts anyway. Was that the way God was with His children? Did He drive them through difficulties, up steep mountains, because He cared and was leading them to better pastures? Even when they didn’t understand what He was doing, maybe He was asking them to thank Him regardless. - To Tame a Cowboy (Colorado Cowboys, # 3) by Jody Hedlund

-"I cannot resist a night's sky. Of all of God's creations, this is my favorite." Marcus let his head fall back again. "The stars are tranquil and comforting, aren't they? They see everything that happens, and while I am sure they hold the secrets of the world, they reflect only the light." - The Sleeping Beauty by Anneka Walker

-"My heart has not ceased to reach for yours." - Saving Miss Everly (Inglewood, # 3) by Sally Bitton

-"We’re sitting here in a room full of truths, and you’re still using me.” - A Curse of Blood and Stone (Fate & Flame, # 2) by KA Tucker

-"Misery seeks its own, miss," Sarah had said when Millie voiced her confusion. "People can't accept that they're the only ones unhappy. They're jealous, and waste their time trying to make others feel the same, when really they ought to put their energy into fixing their own problems." - Engaging Sir Isaac (Inglewood, # 4) by Sally Britton

-"Contentment isn't chained to a certain set of circumstances, Luke. It's portable. You can take it with you wherever you go." - In Honor's Defense (Hanger's Horsemen, # 3) by Karen Witemeyer

-"There is no liar as skilled as pain. Pain will say anything to save itself." - The Second Blind Son (Chronicles of Saylok, # 2) by Amy Harmon

-Mr. Frya would say that was evidence of how God was looking out for her. He'd once remarked that life could be messy at times, but even the prettiest gardens needed weeding. It was in putting forth that diligent effort to tend the garden that its blooms were able to flourish. - Crossed Lines (Love Along the Wires, # 2) by Jennifer Delamere

16. Shortest and longest book you read?


Longest: The War of Two Queens (Blood & Ash, # 4) by Jennifer L Armentrout (628 pages)
Shortest (not including children's books): Breath as Prayer by Jennifer Tucker (208 pages)

17. Book that had a scene in it that had you reeling and dying to talk to somebody about it? (Updated to: Book that shocked you the most?)


The War of Two Queens (Blood & Ash, # 4) by Jennifer L Armentrout

18. Favorite relationship from a book you read (romantic)?


>

Brody & Savannah - To Tame a Cowboy (Colorado Cowboys, # 3) by Jody Hedlund
Hope & Alejandro - Saving Miss Everly (Inglewood, # 3) by Sally Britton
Liv & Lucas - From the Jump by Lacie Waldon
Romeria & Zander - Fate & Flame by KA Tucker
Julia & Jasper - The Belle of Belgrave Square (Belles of London, # 2) by Mimi Matthews
Kenna & Ledger - Reminders of Him by Colleen Hoover
Nora & Charlie - Book Lovers by Emily Henry
Edward & Amelia by Karen Thornell
Sunshine & Levi - A Hard Day for a Hangover (Sunshine Vicram, # 3) by Darynda Jones

19. Favorite relationship (non-romantic) from a book you read?


Grace & Hope (Inglewood, # 2 & 3) by Sally Britton
Mac, Liv, Lucas, Simone, & Phoebe - From the Jump by Lacie Waldon
Nora & Libby - Book Lovers by Emily Henry
Sunshine & Quincy - Sunshine Vicram by Darynda Jones

20. Favorite book you read from an author you’ve read previously?


Reminders of Him by Colleen Hoover

21. Best book you read that you read based solely on a recommendation from somebody else?


Raising Grateful Kids in an Entitled World by Kristen Welch

22. Newest fictional crush from a book you read?

Zander - Fate & Flame by KA Tucker

23. Best debut you read?


I can't ever tell (keep up with) what's a debut and what isn't.

24. Most vivid world/imagery in a book you read?



Fate & Flame by KA Tucker
The War of Two Queens (Blood & Ash, # 3) by Jennifer L Armentrout
Gilded (Gilded, # 1) by Marissa Meyer

25. Book that was the most fun to read?


Meet Me in the Margins by Melissa Ferguson

26. Book that made you cry or nearly cry?


Reminders of Him by Colleen Hoover

27. Book you read that you think got overlooked this year or when it came out?


Most of the historical fiction I've been reading is Christian fiction. I always think these are overlooked by the masses.

28. Book That Crushed Your Soul?


Reminders of Him by Colleen Hoover

29. Most Unique Book You Read?



Breath as Prayer by Jennifer Tucker

30. Book That Made You The Most Mad (doesn’t necessarily mean you didn’t like it)?


A Brush With Love by Mazey Eddings

Blogging

1. New favorite book blog you discovered?

Honestly, I haven't had the time I'd like to visit other blogs. Again, it's the stage of life that I'm in. Perhaps soon, I'll have a new favorite blog to share with you guys. *****

2. Favorite review you wrote?


Reminders of Him by Colleen Hoover - This one got more personal than I usually write.

3. Best discussion you had on your blog?

Maybe next year I'll have a better way of figuring this out. Or I won't wait until last minute to get this post completed.

4. Best event that you participated in (author signing, festivals, virtual events, meme’s, etc)

N/A

5. Best moment of book blogging/your book life this year?

Honestly, this year was all abour survival. I used to be so good at scheduling blog posts even months in advance, but over the last two years I've been struggling week to week to get my posts out. Survival has been my goal.

6. Most challenging thing about blogging or your reading life this year?

I'm not at a desk (or my computer) as frequently as I used to be and that makes writing reviews challenging. I don't enjoy creating long posts on my phone, but sitting down to type out reviews has been challenging. More and more I'm slipping into letting myself read 4 or even up to 5 books before I sit down to write my reviews of what I've read. This makes remembering what I've read challenging. I've got to do better about sticking to my 2 book max. Now that our office has been completed and setup, hopefully sitting down to my computer will be easier.

7. Most popular post this year on your blog (views or comments)?

Usually a meme post...Sunday Post, Top Ten Tuesday, or maybe a Can't Wait for Wednesday post.

8. Post you wished got a little more love?

Any of them? Reviews especially.

9. Best bookish discovery (book related sites, stores)?

Have I mentioned that I'm survivng?

10. Did you complete any reading challenges or goals that you had set for yourself at the beginning of the year?

Reading the Bible in a Year and 52 books read goal. I came under on my series enders goal.

Looking ahead…

1. One book you didn’t get to this year but will be your number 1 priority next year?


Falling for the Cowgirl (Colorado Cowboys, # 4) by Jody Hedlund (I've already read it by the time this post is going live.)

2. Book you are most anticipating next year (non-debut)?


A Queen of Thieves & Chaos (Fate & Flame, # 3) by KA Tucker

3. Debut from next year you are most anticipating?

No debuts are currently on my radar I don't think. Or they might be, but I really don't make note of that when I'm adding to my TBR list.

4. Series ending you are more anticipating next year? Sequel?


Sequel: A Queen of Thieves & Chaos by KA Tucker

Ender: I honestly don't even know which series I'm in the middle of that will be ending in 2023.

5. One thing you hope to accomplish or do in your reading/blogging next year?

This has been my main goal for the last seven years...Just keep going. With dwindling time to read and blog I'm hoping to just hang tight and keep doing the best that I can until another season in life comes that will allow me more time to do both.

6. A Release from Next Year You’ve Already Read & Recommend To Everyone:


Famous for a Living by Melissa Ferguson

What would your answers be to the 2022 EOY Book Survey? Leave me your link so I can check out your post. Or just leave me a comment! Let me know!