We Don't Talk About Carol by Kristen L. Berry

Rating: 5 of 5 stars 

Pages: 336 pages
Published: June 2025

We Don't Talk about Carol is the monthly book club selection of one of my online book clubs, This Browne Girl Reads. This book was not on my radar, so I am thankful to the club for bringing it to my attention, and I look forward to our upcoming discussion about it. 

The suspenseful drama is mainly set in Raleigh, North Carolina, and it begins when Sydney Singleton, who is a former journalist, finds a photo of an unknown relative when cleaning out the home of her recently deceased grandmother. Because the girl in the photo so closely resembles Sydney, her curiosity is sparked to learn more. As she uncovers through research and conversations, she learns the girl in the photo is her aunt who mysteriously disappeared in the 1960s in the midst of a string of missing Black girls. The primary plot is focused on Sydney learning more about her aunt and what happened to the other five neighborhood girls who went missing around the same time. 

As the title suggests and the prologue describes, some things simply are not addressed in families and they need to be. Families often shy away from talking about the hard things to protect themselves, but these taboo topics can have rippling effects that last for generations. The main character's determination to uncover her forgotten aunt's story reflects on the importance of transparency and vulnerability in families, especially Black families where trauma and systemic injustice have often made it difficult. When I was younger, my Mom used to always say, I can't fix what I don't know. And I think that holds true in this novel and in reality. Healing requires a reckoning with the truth. 

Another element that the author addresses is media coverage and missing Black people. As Berry noted in her book, Black Americans make up about 14% of the United States, and they account for 36% of all missing people. Yet they are vastly underserved and rarely covered by the media when compared to their white counterparts. In the novel, Carol's disappearance as well as the other young neighborhood girls are simply classified as runaways without any serious investigation. This societal silence coupled with familial silence perpetuated an injustice in this fictional novel that often mirrors the reality for Black and marginalized communities every day. 

I really enjoyed this book. I found it to be both engaging and informational. I was delighted to learn the author is actually the sister of one of my professional acquaintances. So, not only did I get to support a good read, in a small way, I also supported a friend. 

Recommendation: If you enjoy a carefully crafted mystery with a satisfying conclusion, I highly recommend We Don't Talk About Carol. 

Until next time ... Read on!

Regardless of whether I purchase a book, borrow a book, or receive a book in exchange for review, my ultimate goal is to be honest, fair, and constructive. I hope you've found this review helpful.

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11/22/63 by Stephen King

Rating: 4 of 5 stars 

Pages: 864 pages
Published: November 2011

11/22/63 was published in 2011, and I received an electronic copy as a Christmas gift later that year. The e-book has sat dormant in my Nook library all these years. A Modern Mrs. Darcy Book Club community reading group prompted me to finally dig in and read this tome! 

The time-traveling story features Jake Epping as the main character, and the set-up is seemingly simple: Jake’s dying friend discovers a portal back to 1958 and compels him to use it to stop the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. But if you didn’t know already, there’s nothing simple about changing history. Stephen King takes his reader on a windy journey that includes several road blocks when Jake tries to fix something because the “past is obdurate” as well as coincidences because the “past harmonizes.” The overall plot is simple, but the detailed presentation is complex and engaging. 

What I loved most is how King makes the past feel alive. You don’t just read about the U.S. in the 60s. You smell the food, hear the music, and feel the slower pace of life. It’s intoxicating reading about it through Jake, a white man’s eyes, and you can understand why he is tempted to stay. (As a Black American reading about this time, where segregation and Jim Crow were prevalent, it’s a bit horrifying. And personally, I’m good in the current craziness in which we live.)  

The premise of the book, thwarting the assassination plot permeates the novel, but the heart of the book is Jake’s relationship with Sadie. Their love story makes the moral dilemma even sharper. If you could save millions by changing history but risk losing the person you love the most, what would you do? Who would you choose? And here’s where the book really got me thinking. We all have moments in our lives we wish we could rewrite, but are the ramifications of change worth it. As King illustrates, tampering with the past doesn’t guarantee a better future. In fact, it often makes things worse. Maybe the wiser path is to learn from history, honor its lessons, and focus on shaping the present. 

Recommendation: If you’re looking to read one of the most prolific writers of the time but aren’t intrigued by his standard horror, consider this book. King stated that he specifically wrote it trying to get a different reading demographic. I strongly recommend 11/22/63. It will allow you to meditate on fate, choice, and the messy beauty of living with the past instead of trying to erase it. 

Until next time ... Read on!

Regardless of whether I purchase a book, borrow a book, or receive a book in exchange for review, my ultimate goal is to be honest, fair, and constructive. I hope you've found this review helpful.

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The Correspondent by Virginia Evans

Rating: 3 of 5 stars 

Pages: 304 pages
Published: April 2025

I picked up an electronic copy of The Correspondent by Virginia Evans to read on my Kindle app as it was the monthly selection for the Modern Mrs. Darcy Book Club this October. The novel, a debut for Evans, is a slow burn that is told through the letters of the primary character, a 70-something retired lawyer named Sybil Van Antwerp. As she writes to family, friends, and authors, Evans creates a portrait of a woman reckoning with aging, regret, and grief. 

The entire novel, written in epistolary format and structured entirely through letters and emails, is both a strength and limitation. I typically enjoy this format because it provides the reader introspection you might not get in dialogue. However, Sybil writes to a lot of people, and the sprawling cast of characters that include neighbors, former colleagues, family, and friends add a level of logistical complexity for the reader. This made discernment of character importance a challenge. I really struggled during the first part of the book, so much so I had to make a list of characters with short descriptions to keep track. 

Having said that, the story is a beautiful ache. The heart of Sybil’s conflict surrounds the death of her son. Throughout the story, we learn more about her grief and how it has affected her relationships. Parallel to that story, the reader learns that Sybil is losing her sight slowly and how that is affecting her. As the character develops and gains insight into her flaws and shortcomings, conversely we, as the reader, watch her lose her physical sight. I found this plot device to be very clever in helping create a pace in the plot. 

Evans’ writing is elegant and profound. She captures the reality of aging with grace, learning at any age, and extending and receiving forgiveness very well. Her creation of Sybil speaks to the humanity in us all (none of us are getting out of here alive!), and the letters she crafts through this character and her relationships are a testament to the enduring power of the written word, which I very much appreciated. 

Recommendation: I enjoyed the premise and what the author was trying to do with the process of grief. After completing the novel, I read several recommendations that the book is more easily understood in audio format as each character is voiced by a different actor. I think I would have enjoyed this book more by listening. It is currently offered on Spotify with a premium membership, and perhaps I will go back and reread the novel by listening. 

Until next time ... Read on!

Regardless of whether I purchase a book, borrow a book, or receive a book in exchange for review, my ultimate goal is to be honest, fair, and constructive. I hope you've found this review helpful.

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The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah

Rating: 5 of 5 stars 

Pages: 448 pages
Published: February 2015

I’ve heard great things about Kristin Hannah’s The Nightingale for years. From friends to colleagues to book club reviews, I’ve known this is a book that should be on my radar. I asked for a hard copy for Christmas 2024, and my lovely mother-in-law gifted me this book. You would think nearly 10 years post publication, I would have cracked open the beautiful blue paperback right away. No, when I procrastinate, I go all the way. I started reading this book in September 2025, and I fought sleep nearly every evening of the month to put the book down. The Nightingale is my second Hannah read. I first fell in love with her prose when I devoured The Four Winds.

The Nightingale is a sweeping and emotional novel that centers around two sisters in Nazi-occupied France. These primary fictional characters, Vianne and Isabelle, are illustrations of the very real heroic acts that were carried out by women during World War II. This is a story of resistance, survival, and the cost of courage. The author’s writing is captivating and cinematic, and it’s no surprise that the story is being made into a motion picture. Hannah doesn’t simply tell a story, she immerses the reader in the experience with her descriptive passages and thoughtful presentation. Through Vianne’s lens, we watch a mother endure the most horrific aspects of the war at home, and with Isabelle we learn of a young woman who fiercely and proactively opposes the war. The novel shows that the war wasn’t just fought on the battlefield, but in homes, in the mountains, in quiet conversations, and hidden acts of defiance.

I enjoy reading novels during the holocaust period; not because they are enjoyable reads, but they broaden my perspective and invite larger questions. Like what does it mean to fight for freedom abroad while suppressing it at home? In this novel, like many others set during WWII, we find people from the United States stepping up in the name of humanity. The country that touts itself as a global defender of democracy, rallying against fascism and genocide also is home to Black Americans who were barred from voting, segregated in schools and neighborhoods, and denied equality and justice. Simply put, the same country that condemned Hitler’s racism upheld Jim Crow laws and turned a blind eye to lynching. 

If we are honest, a lot of those same injustices occur in 2025 just as they did in the 1940s. It makes me question, where have we come from and where are we going. I don’t know the answer to the latter, but I do believe women will continue making an impact. I find storytelling to be a form of resistance because where the truth stands, the lie must bend and break. And this is how we remember accurately, how we reckon with oppression, and how we reimagine a better future for our daughters and nieces. 

Recommendation: Needless to say, Hannah’s book gave me all the feels and moved me in many ways - physically and mentally. I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to celebrate acts of heroism and honor freedom … for everyone. 

Until next time ... Read on!

Regardless of whether I purchase a book, borrow a book, or receive a book in exchange for review, my ultimate goal is to be honest, fair, and constructive. I hope you've found this review helpful.

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The Phoenix Pencil Company by Allison King

Rating: 4 of 5 stars 

Pages: 368 pages
Published: June 2025

The Phoenix Pencil Company marks a stunning debut for Allison King, and reading it throughout August was a true delight. I believe King has a long writing career ahead of her, and I'm thankful for this recommendation from the Modern Mrs. Darcy Book Club.

The story revolves around Monica, the main character, who spends most of her time on the computer working on the EMBRS project as part of her collegiate studies in the northeastern part of the United States. During her research, she unexpectedly connects with Louise who is studying nearby and had previously met with Meng in Shanghai while traveling abroad. Meng is the cousin of Monica's ailing grandmother. Together and through various epistolary communication methods, these four women weave a narrative that is rich and magical, bridging the past and present. The result is an inspirational and emotional story of love, loss, and restoring familial legacies through storytelling. 

King's writing style includes rich descriptions that tug on the heartstrings on the reader. She effortlessly immerses the reader into the enchanting world of The Phoenix Pencil Company crafting a narrative that explores survival during tumultuous times. The contemporary conflict between Monica and Louise, who develop a romantic relationship, is portrayed with sensitivity and depth, making it an important aspect of the story. 

Recommendation: I found this novel to be heartfelt, creative, and meaningful. I am glad I read it, as it broadened my understanding of the historical challenges of the Asian community and highlighted the transformative power of communication. This book is a must-read for anyone looking for a touching and enriching literary experience. 

Until next time ... Read on!

Regardless of whether I purchase a book, borrow a book, or receive a book in exchange for review, my ultimate goal is to be honest, fair, and constructive. I hope you've found this review helpful.

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Washington Black by Esi Edugyan

Rating: 4.5 of 5 stars 

Pages: 352 pages
Published: August 2018

When Hulu announced Washington Black was being released as a series, I picked up my long-overdue copy and quickly immersed myself in the ~350-page novel, eager to see the story come to life on the silver screen. (Sterling K. Brown, hello!)  Written by Esi Edugyan this beautifully-told coming-of-age novel captivated me. The TV adaptation took too many liberties and ultimately fell short of my expectations. This review will focus solely on the historical novel. 

The story begins with the titular character, an 11-year old enslaved field hand, on a Barbados sugar plantation whose life is upended when he is stripped away from all he knows and "given" to the slave master's eccentric brother, Titch, to assist with his scientific endeavors. Titch introduces Washington to the world of science and exploration, and the two develop a bond rooted in humanity. However, when a white man is killed, Washington is unjustly blamed, forcing he and Titch to abscond for his safety. This sets off a whimsical adventure that takes Washington from Barbados to the Arctic to Canada to London and to Morocco where he encounters experiences beyond his wildest imagination. The book explores themes of freedom, identity, belonging and abandonment. 

Edugyan excels at character development, particularly with Washington, who evolves from a frightened young boy into a resourceful young man. The author creates beautiful imagery as Washington embarks on this physical and emotional journey across the globe, all the while struggling to define his identity in a world that constantly seeks to limit him. My only criticism of the plot is the ongoing tension between Washington and Titch. Given the context of slavery, abandonment, and lost family, I found it questionable that Washington's continual quest for Titch would have ensued the span of the entire novel. 

Recommendation: I really enjoyed this story and the adventurous, uplifting spirit with which the author presents it. This is a must-read for anyone interested in history fiction, exploration, science, or simply a wonderfully created tale. It's sure to have you thinking past the final page. 

Until next time ... Read on!

Regardless of whether I purchase a book, borrow a book, or receive a book in exchange for review, my ultimate goal is to be honest, fair, and constructive. I hope you've found this review helpful.

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King of Ashes by S.A. Cosby

Rating: 3.5 of 5 stars 

Pages: 352 pages
Published: June 2025

I love everything I've read by S.A. Cosby, but third time was not a charm after completing his latest work, King of Ashes. My experience with this highly-anticipated book did not live up to my expectations. I pre-ordered the novel, expecting a gritty yet redemptive story, but it didn't deliver what I hoped for. Here's a brief summary before I explain further.  

The protagonist, Roman, is called back home to Virginia after his father suffers critical injuries under suspicious circumstances. Upon his return, he learns that his brother Dante is in debt to a very dangerous drug-running gang. One thing leads to another, and Roman, Dante, and their sister are all involved, intentionally and unintentionally, in a perilous situation. 

Having previously read and enjoyed Razorblade Tears and All the Sinners Bleed, I was excited for this new release. Cosby's signature writing style is provocative and captivating, often infused with themes of redemption. While I found King of Ashes to be an intricately crafted story with multiple plot layers and a compelling mystery woven throughout to keep the reader hooked, I found no redeeming qualities in any of the characters. The absence of hope and excessive violence were off-putting. At certain points in the story, I had to physically put the book down and take breaks due to its graphic nature.

Recommendation: While Cosby is a talented storytelling who creates vivid imagery, this particular novel did not resonate with me. I still intend to read his future works, but I will approach them with more caution! 

Until next time ... Read on!

Regardless of whether I purchase a book, borrow a book, or receive a book in exchange for review, my ultimate goal is to be honest, fair, and constructive. I hope you've found this review helpful.

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Uncommon Favor by Dawn Staley

Uncommon Favor: Basketball, North Philly, My Mother, and the Life Lessons I Learned from All Three

Rating: 3.5 of 5 stars 

Pages: 256 pages
Published: May 2025

Dawn Staley, a former basketball player, Olympian, and current head coach for the South Carolina Gamecocks women’s basketball team, released her first book, Uncommon Favor this spring. In it she uses her experiences and insights to detail 13 life lessons she’s curated from her time as a professional athlete, a life as a Philadelphian, and her mother’s rearing of her. Each chapter is centered around a particular theme or lesson that has influenced her life and career, and she uses examples from her life to illustrate her points. 

Overall, Staley emphasizes the importance of hard work, determination, resilience, and the support of mentors and family. She recounts specific challenges and struggles and how she’s overcome them. Her stories are not presented in a chronological fashion, and she often uses some of the same situations to highlight multiple lessons. Getting a behind the scene peek into some of her public events, like holding the U.S. flag at the 2004 Olympic opening ceremonies, was insightful.  

I enjoyed her stories, but I didn’t always appreciate the delivery. I think Staley could have benefited from some further editing. The biggest challenge I had as a reader had to do with my expectations. I went into the book thinking it would be more of a memoir, but Staley didn’t really share a lot of personal details. Much of what was shared was more factual in nature and could have easily been discovered online. To be fair, she states multiple times that she is a private person, so I suspect that is why a lot of her opinions and depictions were surface level. But on the other hand, if you enjoy your privacy, why write a biographical book? Having said that, I do feel like she began to open up a little more in the final third of the book. 

Recommendation: I respect what the author has attempted and appreciate her attempt at vulnerability, but the book left me wanting more. When I have read other stories like this, I almost feel like I’ve become friends with the author as I’ve gotten to know them through their work. Uncommon Favor told me basic things about the author and her life but not necessarily the why or what resulted from those happenings. Maybe Staley will write another book post-career where she can divulge a little more.  

Until next time ... Read on!

Regardless of whether I purchase a book, borrow a book, or receive a book in exchange for review, my ultimate goal is to be honest, fair, and constructive. I hope you've found this review helpful.

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Run for the Hills by Kevin Wilson

Rating: 3.5 of 5 stars 

Pages: 256 pages
Published: May 2025

I grabbed a copy of Run for the Hills by Kevin Wilson on recommendation from the Modern Mrs. Darcy Book Club. This short yet adventure-packed novel was the perfect light-hearted read for fun summer day. As my first experience with this author, I found myself appreciating his craft even more after listening to his author chat with the MMD Book Club. However, I'm not sure I would necessarily seek out his other works. While he is undoubtedly talented, I believe, as I've often said, not every book is for every reader, and this one was just middle of the road for me. 

Run for the Hills is a story about found family and looking for the apology you just may never get. One random day, Reuben Hill shows up at Madeline Hill's farm she shares with her mother and informs them he is the first son of the father they share. Reuben proposes a road trip to find their father as well as the three other unknown Hill children. Madeline, who didn't know about these siblings, or that her father was even still living, reluctantly agrees to join Reuben. And along the way they pick up their siblings - in chronological order! - and learn more than they ever knew about their father and themselves. 

What I enjoyed most about this book was the sense of physical movement as the siblings embarked on this road trip across the United States. The journey was not only a literally one but also emotionally moving due to the nature of the plot and exploration of relationships. While the story was entertaining, I found some of the scenarios a little far-fetched. I also wanted more resolution of their father's character. 

Recommendation: I found this book to be reflective and, at times, humorous. Although, the story dragged on a little for me, and the ending felt lackluster, I valued the relationships between the siblings and the quest to find their father, which ultimately led to them discovering more about themselves and each other. 

Until next time ... Read on!

Regardless of whether I purchase a book, borrow a book, or receive a book in exchange for review, my ultimate goal is to be honest, fair, and constructive. I hope you've found this review helpful.

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My Friends by Fredrik Backman

Rating: 5+ of 5 stars 

Pages: 448 pages
Published: May 2025

If you follow my reading blog, you must know Fredrik Backman is my auto-buy author. I love everything he writes, and I hope one day to have at least 1/16 of the talent he has when writing creatively. So, as you might suspect, I pre-ordered his latest novel, My Friends, and was downright giddy when it arrived in time for my long haul trip to Greece in late May. What can I say about My Friends? It's, of course, about a friend group. But it's so much more. It's about community, art, surviving, creating, dying, growing. It's about what Backman writes best - the human condition. Let me try to provide a succinct summary, and then I will attempt to convey my feelings about this stupendous novel. 

In My Friends, Backman brings us four teenagers whose friendship is so strong, it literally stands the test of time and ultimately affects a complete stranger, in the very best way, when one of the friends meets the stranger decades later after another of the friends has succumb to an illness. The friend who has passed on was a famous artist, and his first painting has moved millions but specifically, Louisa - the stranger, who is an aspiring artist herself. A chance encounter with the artist's friend leads them both down a path of self-discovery (Louisa) and healing (the friend). The story is complex, and a paragraph blurb about the plot simply cannot do it justice. As with most of Backman's stories, he creates layered nuisances that slowly come full circle not only providing a satisfying conclusion, but an emotionally-filled one as well. This book made me laugh, think, and cry. 

Backman's prose is top-notch. His storytelling is vulnerable, and it reaches the depths of souls. I follow the author on social media, and I know he fights against a darkness that many of us do. Before this book was released to the public, some of his social media posts hinted at the possibility that this may be his last writing. While I hope it is not, I am so grateful for what he has provided the literary fiction community thus far. Do yourself a favor and grab a copy of this book today. 

Recommendation: My Friends captures the very essence of friendship and celebrates the ties that hold us together, even in the face of the most devastating tragedies. Backman's signature writing style touches on so many themes and is sure to catch the eyes of many readers and all the bestseller lists this summer. 

Until next time ... Read on!

Regardless of whether I purchase a book, borrow a book, or receive a book in exchange for review, my ultimate goal is to be honest, fair, and constructive. I hope you've found this review helpful.

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Happy Land by Dolen Perkins-Valdez

Rating: 5 of 5 stars 

Pages: 368 pages
Published: April 2025 

After the remarkable success of her her critically-acclaimed novel Take My Hand, I was eager to pick up Dolen Perkins-Valdez next book, Happy Land. My book club discussed this novel, and we enjoyed the extra benefit of having the author join our group to give further insights into her well-researched and creatively-written story. 

In Happy Land, the author tells the story of the perseverance of a group of formerly enslaved Black people who, post-slavery, create a community built on self-reliance and ingenuity. On their land, they form their own government, make their own food, and create the own wares. But as is often the case, this good thing comes to an end through a common crisis in a tumultuous time. The book then alternates between this time period and present-day when a descendent of the kingdom's leaders, Nikki, visits her grandmother who is having a crisis of her own. Nikki's headstrong grandmother, Rita, is too stubborn to ask for her right out. So, the elder woman weaves a story that almost seems to be a tall tale rather than a history lesson in order to create a vision for Nikki that helps shape Rita, Nikki, and their family's future. 

Perkins Valdez's writing is captivating as she transports her readers to this historical time period that is typically not bright for Black people, but in this particular story their light shines through. She creates such a vivid picture that I wanted to remain in that time period of the novel rather than present day. I truly appreciated how she took care with her words and the presentation of Black people, specifically Black women, in this novel. 

Recommendation: I sincerely enjoyed this novel and appreciated the storytelling that focused on the importance of community and connection in the face of adversity. It is a story, based in fact, that encourages the reader to learn more about the kingdom of Happy Land. 

Until next time ... Read on!

Regardless of whether I purchase a book, borrow a book, or receive a book in exchange for review, my ultimate goal is to be honest, fair, and constructive. I hope you've found this review helpful.

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Don't Cry for Me by Daniel Black

Rating: 5 of 5 stars 

Pages: 304 pages
Published: February 2022

As I mentioned in my review of Isaac's Song by Dr. Daniel Black, I had not read Don't Cry for Me. I enjoyed the follow-up novel so much, I immediately snagged a copy of the preceding novel from my local library. Since I read the novels out of publication order, I can tell you, this novel begins with the father's perspective of events and concludes just the way the following book begins. 

In this origin story, the father attempts to make amends with Issac, who is gay, for the way that he disregarded his child's identity in his rearing of him. He drafts several letters while dying in hopes of explaining and reconciling his behavior. [In the second novel, which is told from the son's perspective), he receives this communication, making a well-rounded story with a satisfying conclusion.] In Don't Cry for Me, the author crafts a poignant narrative that focuses on the themes of love, grief, and identity. I would classify it, as well as the following novel, as a heartfelt story that takes the reader on an emotional journey of the human experience. Black does an exceptional job of developing complex characters who are relatable and flawed. 

For all the same reasons, I enjoyed Isaac's Song, I adored Don't Cry for Me. The storytelling is powerful and rich. The author delves into some deep topics that make the reader think outside the box. My only criticism is the first book has somewhat of an unsatisfying conclusion. Because I read the second book first and received the conclusion early, I was able to easily accept the first novel. Having heard what my book club said about both these reads, I'm kind of glad I read them out of order. 

Recommendation: I thoroughly enjoy Dr. Black's writing style and storytelling talent, and I highly recommend this book. It is a carefully crafted exploration of the human spirit, and I can't wait to read more by this author. 

Until next time ... Read on!

Regardless of whether I purchase a book, borrow a book, or receive a book in exchange for review, my ultimate goal is to be honest, fair, and constructive. I hope you've found this review helpful.

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Isaac's Song by Daniel Black

Rating: 5 of 5 stars 

Pages: 313 pages
Published: January 2025

I read Isaac's Song by Dr. Daniel Black with one of my virtual book clubs that focuses on selections from the Black and African diaspora. I had heard glowing reviews of the author's companion book, Don't Cry for Me, when it was published three years earlier but had read neither. At just over 300 pages, I decided to join the club in reading this latest work and discussing it later as a group.

This poignant and evocative narrative explores themes of race, identity, heritage and the complexities of familial relationships. The titular character is in a period of conflict having learned of his estranged father's death. Through Isaac's conversations with his therapist and introspection of his upbringing, Black is able to weave a tale that illustrates the struggles and triumphs of the Black experience, specifically in this case, through the lens of a challenging father-son relationship. 

Overall, I found Isaac's Song to stand out for its powerful storytelling and thought-provoking ability. The characters showed phenomenal growth, and the culture backdrop made this fiction work also educational. This was my first (but not last!) read by Dr. Black, and I find his contribution to contemporary literature to be significant. 

Recommendation: I was fully engaged in this story even though much of it was not directly relatable to me, which further proves the author's gift to write a thorough piece of literature that captivates a far-reaching audience. I highly recommend this book and cannot wait to reach the companion. 

Until next time ... Read on!

Regardless of whether I purchase a book, borrow a book, or receive a book in exchange for review, my ultimate goal is to be honest, fair, and constructive. I hope you've found this review helpful.

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The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins

Rating: 3.5 of 5 stars 

Pages: 257 pages
Published: December 2024

Probably like many of you, I heard about the viral sensation, Let Them, on various forms of media - social, radio, podcasts, etc. At the beginning of the year, when one of my coworkers mentioned she was going to read the book, I offered to buddy read and discuss it with her. Mel Robbins, along with her co-author and daughter worked on this practical self-help guide to help readers give themselves permission to pursue dreams, confront fears, and embrace their authentic selves. 

The book opens explaining the "Let Them theory". Robbins posits it as a "proven method that teaches you how to protect your time and energy, and focus on what matters to you" (p. 12). While the "let them" portion of the theory is catchy and memorable, the rub is in the second part, which is "let me." The author explains that by letting go of trying to control others; you create space to let yourself live freely and authentically. She simply reminds the reader: "The only person you are in control of is you" (p. 30). Throughout her book, she provides scientific research and academic studies to bolster her position. Robbins uses personal stories and experiences in a conversational tone to offer useful advice in the form of actionable tips that any reader can implement immediately. 

While I found this motivational book to be empowering and comprehensive, I did think most of the perspectives she shared were something any middle-aged adult should know. However, like most self-help books, I found this to be a good reminder of what we should be doing to live our life to the fullest. Robbins' overarching message of strength and perseverance resonates throughout the book and creates inspiration for readers to take control of their mind, body, and soul. 

Recommendation: This book is an inspiring self-help formula for crafting better relationships by embracing one's own authenticity. It serves as a reminder that we are in control of what we do and how we react to what others do, but we cannot control other people. Whether you're at a crossroads in your career or personal life, this book provides the common sense tools and encouragement needed to embrace your true self. I recommend it to those needing that reminder. 

Until next time ... Read on!

Regardless of whether I purchase a book, borrow a book, or receive a book in exchange for review, my ultimate goal is to be honest, fair, and constructive. I hope you've found this review helpful.

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Second Tide's the Charm by Chandra Blumberg

Rating: 4 of 5 stars 

Pages: 336 pages
Published: August 2024

I first heard about Second Tide's the Charm by Chandra Blumberg via the Modern Mrs. Darcy virtual book club's annual Summer Reading Guide publication in 2024. A couple of months later, I picked up a copy of the romcom at my local Barnes & Noble bookstore, but I didn't get around to reading it until about a year later. I read this as a sort of buddy read with my long distance reading friend who resides in New York. I consumed my copy while making annotations on the page as she did the same with The Love Simulation by Etta Easton, then we swapped books. (More to come on The Love Simulation later!) Thanks to the bookstagram community for the fun activity! 

My chosen novel follows the fictional lives of Hope Evans and Adrian Hollis-Parker who were both colleagues in the field of shark research and committed romantic partners until life got in the way causing them to call it quits. An opportunity in the summer allows Hope to relocate from Michigan to Florida to get her professional life back on track. When Adrian realizes that Hope will be working with him, tension ensues and the reader is given a front row seat to former lovers turned friends navigating the waters in hopes of finding themselves again. 

I really enjoyed this book. The characters were realistic, and the representation of Black professionals in a S.T.E.M. field was refreshing. I also enjoyed the references to nearby Chicago (one of my favorite cities) when the novel opes and Hope is living up north. Overall, this is your traditional romance-comedy mash-up. It's light, somewhat predictable, and injected with humor. However, there are some heavy topics that are addressed in a relevant and sensitive manner, which I fully appreciated. The plot is captivating and intertwines themes of resilience and self-discovery. The author does a great job of crafting a narrative that explores the complexities of interpersonal relationships, but also writing in such a way that draws the reader into the emotional plot while creating a smooth chain of events. My only criticism of this novel is that some scenes seemed to drag on just a bit too long, often lasting several pages and even an entire chapter. I would have appreciated a little faster paced novel. 

Recommendation: Second Tide's the Charm is a beautifully-written exploration of romantic persistence, proving that love has transformative power. Readers of contemporary fiction are sure to love Blumberg's work. 

Until next time ... Read on!

Regardless of whether I purchase a book, borrow a book, or receive a book in exchange for review, my ultimate goal is to be honest, fair, and constructive. I hope you've found this review helpful.

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The Last Murder at the End of the World by Stuart Turton

Rating: 3 of 5 stars 

Pages: 368 pages
Published: March 2024

I found my copy of The Last Murder at the End of the World by Stuart Turton at my local Barnes & Noble store. The synopsis gave me Paradise (see the popular drama on Hulu) vibes, and since I was on a long wait for season two I hoped this book would fill in the gap. My husband, also a fan of the TV show, decided to buddy read this one with me. And so that's how I found myself in a post-apocalyptic science fiction novel in the spring this year. 

So, the world as we know it has ended, a dangerous fog has killed everyone on the planet but a small group of people living in seemingly safety on a remote island. Here everyone contributes their time and talent to helping the community thrive. Then, one day, someone is murdered by stabbing, and this event has triggered the security system on the island, leaving the inhabitants vulnerable to the deathly fog. They have just over 100 hours to solve the murder and stop the fog or it will indeed be the end of the world. The challenge is memories have been wiped, and Emory, an inquisitive islander must use her talents to help solve the murder and save the community. 

Turton weaves together multiple perspectives of primary characters creating a complex plot that takes the reader on a race against the clock with Emory to solve the multi-faceted murder. The author's writing is engaging, and the plot is lofty. I found myself vividly picturing scenes as he described them. I enjoyed the themes of morality, redemption, and what we do in the face of extreme circumstances. When I first began the novel, I stumbled over the character Abi who serves as sort of an omniscient narrator. While the story is written in the third person, Abi speaks in the first, which felt incongruent to me. Additionally, Turton packed a lot of information into this novel, so much sometimes, the story was difficult to follow. I did appreciate his careful crafting of complex characters who had flaws and strengths alike. 

Recommendation: Overall, The Last Murder at the End of the World is a riveting read that offers a compelling mystery while exploring the human psyche leaving the reader to consider what choice they might make in a similar situation. Fans of the TV show Paradise and The Last of Us, as well as those who enjoy reading dystopian novels will find this novel a must-read. 

Until next time ... Read on!

Regardless of whether I purchase a book, borrow a book, or receive a book in exchange for review, my ultimate goal is to be honest, fair, and constructive. I hope you've found this review helpful.

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Firstborn Girls: A Memoir by Bernice L. McFadden

Rating: 5 of 5 stars 

Pages: 400 pages
Published: March 2025

Firstborn Girls by Bernice L. McFadden found me by way of a new virtual book club, TheBrowneGirlReads, that highlights and honors the work of writers across the African Diaspora. Being a part of a book club that celebrates authors who look like me and write stories about my community as well as discussing these non-fiction narratives and fictional stories with other relatable women has been one of my personal bright spots of 2025. In my quest to read more book club selections in general (I’m a member of several different clubs.), I pre-ordered this book without hesitation. And to be honest, the title piqued my interest as I, too, am a firstborn girl. 

The book is a non-fiction, personal account of McFadden’s life from about the age of two, where she survives a horrific car accident up until the publication of her debut novel, Sugar. Throughout the memoir, she not only details her coming of age in chronological order but also shares vignettes about her family members, specifically her grandmother, mother, and daughter who are also firstborn girls, Interspersed, McFadden includes timely historical accounts of current events happening at the time to help help provide context to her life stories while giving them depth and providing the reader with perspective. 

The author’s vulnerability shines through in her dedication to provide a descriptive picture of her life as she shares the challenges that her birth order and gender afforded her. McFadden details both the highs and lows she endured as a firstborn girl growing up in a dysfunctional household in New York. I do believe people who are able to withstand the toughest trials end up being some of the most brilliant talents, and this definitely holds true for McFadden. Additionally, she offers some beautiful accounts of her personal experiences when she explains how her angelcestors* have watched over her.  

America was and remains a powder keg, and often the match that lights the fuse is racism. -p. 5

Gwen made a face. “You mad or what? I ain’t wasting my vote on her. What a woman know ‘bout running a country, anyway, huh? And a Black woman at that! If you think dem white people are going to vote for her, you just as mad as that Patsy Hill girl!” -p. 94 [speaking of Shirley Chisholm’s presidential run not Kamala Harris’]

There weren’t just books, they were my friends, my security blankets, my pacifiers, and my safety nets. -p. 105

In America, she is legally white because the Supreme Court says that people from Syria/Lebanon are racially white. Which proves yet again that race is a construct without biologically meaning. -p. 164

She spoke like she knew her way around a plate of fried chicken, black-eyed peas, and corn bread. Like she might not have been able to double Dutch but could turn. The thing I’m trying to tell you is that girl clapped on the two and the four and not the one and the three. -p. 170

But I’m talking about it now because I’m tired if keeping it to myself, and I’ve learned that things that live in the dark, die in the light. -p. 184

At the age of forty-four, Amanda died in 1893 of neurasthenia- also known as nervous exhaustion. Being Black and female in America is still an exhausting existence. -p. 254

If damned if you do and damned if you don’t were a people, those people would be Black. -p. 301

In America, Black kids don’t get to be kids, especially in the eyes of white people. Black children have been adultified since slavery, perceived as older and less innocent than white children. For hundreds of years, they’ve used this as an excuse to exact violence on our children. -p. 302-303

Penance aids the sinner; it does not erase the crime or the people harmed. -p. 303

I suspect the peek into his family history made him feel less alone in the world, maybe in some strange way it made him feel powerful. Maybe that’s why America works so hard at erasing and rewriting the true history of Black people in this country. -p. 329

While reading this book, I had to remind myself that I was learning about someone’s real life because McFadden writes in such a gripping and arresting way, that sharing her life almost feels like fictional storytelling to the reader. Most of my reading of this book was done with my physical hard copy, but I also took advantage of Spotify to listen to the book while driving. I don’t often do this, but I was so invested in quickly learning more about the author, I wanted to utilize each free moment I had to dive in more. 

Recommendation: McFadden is a talented and prolific writer, and I am shamed to admit I had read none of her works until now. I have, indeed, been missing out. After quickly consuming this novel, I am sure to pick up another work by her very soon. I highly recommend this book to readers who are interested in history, genealogy, or want to get to know more about McFadden’s fascinating life. 

Until next time ... Read on!

Regardless of whether I purchase a book, borrow a book, or receive a book in exchange for review, my ultimate goal is to be honest, fair, and constructive. I hope you've found this review helpful.

*Angelcestor is a term coined and trademarked by Bernice L. McFadden that combines the terms angel and ancestor to honor those who have passed but continue to guide and safeguard their descendants.

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How to Read a Book by Monica Wood

Rating: 4.5 of 5 stars 

Pages: 288 pages
Published: June 2024

How to Read a Book by Monica Wood was the monthly selection for the Modern Mrs. Darcy Book Club. The relatively short story is a poignant one that touches on the themes of grief, friendship, redemption, and not necessarily how to read a book but how to a live a meaningful life. The protagonist, Violet, a young woman convicted of a deadly crime is released from prison. At a crossroads in her life, she develops a friendship with Harriet, the retired schoolteacher who facilitated the prison book club program in which Violet participated. While Violet is trying to figure out her life outside of prison, Harriet is trying to figure out what her life will look like in her third act. Both women’s lives collide with Frank’s, the widow and victim of Violet’s crime. Over the course of the nearly 300 page novel, Wood presents a thoughtful, honest story of friendship and what it means to live a worthy life.

I completed this novel in just a few days. The pace is fast, and the plot is engaging. Because a portion of the book is centered around the prison book club and the local, independent bookstore, there is quite a bit of book chatter and recommended titles throughout the reading. The author also does a beautiful job of presenting points for reader reflection in beautifully composed sentences. And as a lover and collector of words, I enjoyed those parts of the book the most! 

“Amazon is the devil,” Harried informed not only Baker but whoever might be listening. She slid her credit card across the counter. “The Nazis worked with more subtlety.” - p. 20

Was this the fate of adults on the threshold of their dotage? To be turned into children by children? - p.37

A squawk of laughter came loose from On High, and Frank suddenly hated all young people, who thought they knew all things and in fact knew only some things. - p. 53

Women left prison physically diminished, but in Violet that diminishment seemed of a different order, as if the part of God that is said to dwell in all creatures had flown from her, only to perch somewhere nearby, awaiting reentry. -p. 82

Perhaps it’s an oddity of human nature to judge women more harshly. Or maybe we expect so little of men, their transgressions don’t register the same. - p. 150

Apologies require acceptance … But as I understand it, forgiveness flows in one direction only. - p. 177

The writer writes the words. The given reader reads the words. And the book, the unique and unrepeatable book, doesn’t exist until the given reader meets the writer on the page. - p. 235

Even the least eventful life holds an avalanche of stories. Any one of mine would give you a fair impression of who I was and how I lived. But the one I chose—the one that now composes this epitaph—isn’t a story at all. It’s what Harriet would call the meanwhile, the important thing that was happening while the rest of the story moved along. My name was Violet Powell. I took a life. I lived and died. Meanwhile, I was loved. - p. 273

Recommendation: This is my first Monica Wood read, and I found that she packs an emotional punch in an efficient number of pages. I think she is an author I would read again, perhaps even returning to this particular story when I need something that reads like a cup of warm cocoa tastes on a cold winter night. 

Until next time ... Read on!

Regardless of whether I purchase a book, borrow a book, or receive a book in exchange for review, my ultimate goal is to be honest, fair, and constructive. I hope you've found this review helpful.

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Harlem Rhapsody by Victoria Christopher Murray

Rating: 5 of 5 stars 

Pages: 400 pages
Published: February 2025

A historical fiction delight by prolific author Victoria Christopher Murray, Harlem Rhapsody tells the long-hidden story of real-life Jessie Redmon Fauset who was the first and only literary editor of The Crisis, the NAACP’s premier publication. Having been designated this distinctive title by the founder and her secret lover, W.E.B. Dubois, Fauset took this opportunity to not only hone her writing skills but spark a generation of legendary literary geniuses active during the Harlem Renaissance movement. 

The novel is, of course, set in Harlem, New York, and spans the six-year period covering Fauset’s reign as literary editor. Through Murray’s descriptive and captivating prose, we learn about this very real person who contributed much to modern-day literature by way of her mentorship, creative assets, and service to the Black community. As the author herself says, all Black authors today stand on the shoulders of Fauset who birthed a movement in the proper representation of the Black culture without frivolous stereotypes told by Black creatives themselves. 

While much of the novel focuses on Fauset’s work, there is an underlying plot that details the very true history of her affair with W.E.B. Dubois. Through Murray’s fictional storytelling, based on solid research and historical evidence, the reader learns of the conflict Fauset wrestled with in trying to make a career for herself in the 1920s and balancing that with a forbidden relationship that imposed limitations on how far she could excel. This multi-faceted story also introduces the reader to the origin stories of many literary legends, like Countee Cullen, Nella Larsen, and Zora Neale Hurston, who have name recognition today, but were young and relatively unknown during this time. 

I thoroughly enjoyed this complex and engaging novel. I appreciate a good story that not only entertains but informs, and Harlem Rhapsody did just that. Additionally, the author - a gifted writer of today’s time - shared so many beautiful passages when painting in-depth word pictures. Here are just a few I noted for memorializing. 

Literature can be useful in this fight for equality. That’s what I tell my daughter. She can change this world with words. - p. 5

Any art by Negroes must serve one purpose alone — to uplift the race and present Negroes in a way white folks have never seen. Art must serve to change more than minds, art must change hearts. Through literature, stories can be shared that recognize the contributions colored folks have made in just fifty years, post-emancipation. The written word can be more powerful than any speech I can deliver. - p.5

Negro women in America will continue to reach the highest levels, continue to be the best and the brightest, and then force others to tell us that with these qualifications, we are disqualified. We will force others to tell us that our credentials are fine; our complexions are what’s offensive. - p. 180

I’m so grateful to her for encouraging me to read. The characters inside books became my friends. I loved every story, even the tragic ones. Because even in tragedy, the words can make a pitiable life beyond beautiful. - p. 190

That one-drop definition comes from white supremacists. I’ve never understood why anyone would abide by the rules and rantings of madmen. How can men who hate me, without knowing me, define me? - p. 207

Recommendation: This book covers a lot of ground in an easily digestible format. It was an excellent choice by my book club to celebrate both Black and women’s history. I highly recommend this novel for literary fiction fans who also enjoy learning about historically hidden figures, who are, thankfully, hidden no more. 

Until next time ... Read on!

Regardless of whether I purchase a book, borrow a book, or receive a book in exchange for review, my ultimate goal is to be honest, fair, and constructive. I hope you've found this review helpful.

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