Saturday, August 8, 2026

Score by Kennedy Ryan

Rating: 3 of 5 stars

Pages: 384 pages
Published: May 2026

I read Before I Let Go by Kennedy Ryan in 2023, and while many readers adored it and the subsequent books in the series, her writing style didn’t resonate with me. So, when one of my book club friends suggested I try Score, I was hesitant but made a genuine effort to approach it with an open mind. Unfortunately, I found more of the same: serious themes paired with superficial character development and a heavy reliance on open-door sex scenes that overshadowed the emotional core of the story.

The story centers on Verity Hill and Wright “Monk” Bellamy, who meet in college and fall into what some might call love, but felt more like lust. Their relationship implodes after Verity experiences a life-changing event she never fully explains, and the two go their separate ways without another word. Fast forward 20 years and we find Verity, a successful screenwriter, and Monk, a celebrated musician who score films. Fate brings them back together on a major project in Los Angeles, and for the sake of their careers, they agree to work together amicably. As old feelings resurface, they must confront the possibility of rekindling their relationship, yet both are still withholding the truth. Verity has never been honest about what happened in college, and Monk can’t fully acknowledge his lingering feelings or the broken trust between them.

I really wanted to like this book. Like the earlier book I read, this one attempts to explore mental health, identity, and emotional healing – all topics I find compelling. But what could have been a deeper, more nuanced examination of these issues was overshadowed by explicit scenes and limited relational development. By the end, I didn’t believe Verity and Monk’s connection was rooted in love. Their bond made sense in their young college years, but not in their later 30s. I never understood how either character knew the other was “the one” when most of their interactions centered on physical attraction rather than meaningful emotional intimacy.

My other challenge with the book was the open-door sex scenes. It’s simply not my jam. I think it’s quite possible to craft an emotionally-resonant romance novel without giving the play-by-play of what happens behind closed doors. This is not something I enjoy reading, and I honestly don’t think it adds value to any story, especially when there were so many other facets that could have been explored more deeply in this novel: mental health and its stigma in the Black community. death, grief, healing, forgiveness, just to name a few. At times, it felt like the novel was trying to do too much. You can write a thoughtful, emotionally-rich story, or you can write smut. But trying to merge the two and present it as cerebral didn’t work for me.

Recommendation: I promised I would go into this story with an open mind and give Kennedy Ryan a fair chance. After finishing Score, I think the verdict is that her style of writing just isn’t my cup of tea. And that’s OK. She’s a prolific author with a huge and devoted following, so losing me as a reader isn’t going to make a dent in her success. Not every book is for everyone, and this one was not for me.

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.

This Book Made Me Think of You by Libby Page

Rating: 4.5 of 5 stars

Pages: 416 pages
Published: February 2026

This Book Made Me Think of You by Libby Page was recommended to me by a dear friend who has known me a long time and understands my love of reading good books. So it’s no surprise that while I read the first 45 pages of this book slowly over three busy days, I quickly devoured it once I reached the weekend. This emotionally enriched novel follows Matilda “Tilly” Nightingale who has just lost the love of her life to a serious illness. At the book’s opening she learns that her husband, Joe, has arranged for her to receive one book per month for an entire year–a final act of love meant to guide her through her grief. What unfolds over the book’s 400+ pages is a journey of self-discovery, adventure, friendships, and healing.

There were so many things I loved about this book. First, it’s a story about books, which is always a win for me. Part of it is told in epistolary format, which is one of my favorite literary devices. And I adored that it was centered around an independent bookshop. Let’s be honest these type of shops don’t get a lot of love in real life or fiction these days. Finally, I loved that each book Joe selected took Tilly somewhere new–either physically or emotionally–often where she experiences unforgettable meals. In that way, the novel became a delightful blend of fiction, food, and fun, which are three things that speak directly to my heart. But beyond its charming premise, Page explores deeper themes: grief, resilience, and the difficult work of creating a new life when you’ve been handed an unfair curveball. Those themes resonated with me personally this year, and the story helped me put a few things in my own life into perspective.

Because what better place to get lost than among shelves of stories?

As she reads about a little girl who shares her name and who loves to read, the world beyond the pages of the book disappears. And inside her a door that she thought was locked nudges open, letting in a shaft of light.

“But isn’t that one of the great things about fiction?” he says. “It’s an escape. Somewhere to go when you don’t want to be where you are.”

Crying like that had emptied her out completely. But maybe she needed to feel empty so that this moment could fill her right back up again.

“I wish I could show you when you are lonely or in darkness the astonishing light of your own being.”

Maybe this is what books do, she thinks, whether stories real or imagined or poems compiled in one place for people to flick through in search of what they need. They offer something universal but allow you to find your own meaning among the words. They are for everyone and yet they are for you too.

But we’re still here. And I think we owe it to him, and to ourselves, to live. Nothing can take away your memories. But it’s OK to make new ones too.”

Maybe I’ll have to take a permanent job in the future, but I like the idea of the freedom of working like this. I can do it how and when and wherever I like. And life is too short not to try.”

***

Additionally, Page conveys the grief process with remarkable clarity. Tilly’s emotions, her numbness, her longing, and her careful steps toward hope, felt so real to me. This was one of the rare books that made me laugh, pause, and cry. Any form of art that evokes this range of emotion is doing exactly what it’s meant to do. My only criticism is the formulaic and predictable nature of the plot. Where you think it’s going is exactly where it ends up and everything ties together neatly in the end. For some readers, that’s a comfort; for me, it was simply a matter of personal preference. I think sometimes a reader needs a completely satisfying conclusion.

Overall, this book made me feel grateful for grief because deep grief only exists where immeasurable love once lived, and I think we all deserve that kind of love.

Recommendation: I’m grateful for friends who know me well enough to share books they believe will move me. There’s something intimate and special about someone loving a novel and knowing it will speak to you, too. I highly recommend picking up This Book Made Me Think of You–because I’m thinking you deserve a feel-good read, so this book, indeed, made me think of you.

The Women by Kristin Hannah

Rating: 4 of 5 stars

Pages: 464 pages
Published: February 2024

The Women by Kristin Hannah is a work of historical fiction that follows the coming-of-age of protagonist Frances “Frankie” McGrath, a young woman who naively volunteers to serve as a nurse in the Vietnam war. Inspired by her father’s wall of military heroes and encouraged by a childhood friend who insists that women can be heroes too, Frankie signs up shortly after her older brother deploys. Just before she leaves, she learns he has been killed in combat — an emotional blow that shapes everything that follows.

Against her parents’ wishes and their shared fear of losing their only surviving child, Frankie arrives in Vietnam and is immediately thrust into the brutal reality of war. She forms deep bonds, loses people she cares about, and witnesses unimaginable tragedy. When she returns home, she finds a country in turmoil. Society is severely fractured by protests against the war, and most of the public is unwilling to acknowledge the service of those who fought. The remaining two-thirds of the novel follow Frankie as she struggles to heal, rebuild her identity, and navigate a world that no longer makes sense to her.

I found the historical elements of this book incredibly compelling. While I wasn’t alive during this era, I grew up learning about it. I remember the late Senator John McCain sharing his story as a POW during his presidential campaign. That context helped ground my reading. What challenged me, however, was Frankie’s naivety. It was difficult to imagine someone like her volunteering for a war without doing any research, and her sense of helplessness upon returning home was frustrating at times. But I also recognize that I read this in 2026, through a modern lens where women (at least for now) have far more independence and agency than they did in the late 60s and 70s. My expectations were shaped by my own era, not hers.

It was also jarring to read about soldiers returning home without support or celebration. Coming from a military family with service in Operation Desert Storm and Operation Iraqi Freedom, my lived experience is that service members are honored for their bravery. That disconnect is a limitation of me as the reader; not the book.

Now, the part I cannot forgive, and hence the 4-star rating, was the romance elements. It felt so unbelievable that a woman who survived the death and devastation of Vietnam would remain so emotionally stuck on a lost love. I wanted Frankie to be stronger, and I felt the romantic thread was unnecessarily drawn out. Still, once I pushed through that section, the ending delivered a satisfying and meaningful conclusion.

Recommendation: Hannah is a gifted writer with an extraordinary ability to transport readers to the time periods she brings to life. Her research permeates every page, and this novel is clearly a labor of love. In her endnotes, she shares that she first wanted to write this book in 1997, and honestly, I’m glad she waited because I might have missed it otherwise. The Women is Kristin Hannah at her best, and I recommend picking up a copy. In a moment when we find ourselves in another global conflict no one asked for, this novel is a powerful reminder that if we don’t learn from history, we are destined to repeat it.

Other Books by Kristin Hannah I’ve Reviewed

The Four Winds

The Nightingale

Cursed Daughters by Oyinkan Braithwaite

Rating: 5 of 5 stars

Pages: 384 pages
Published: November 2025

I picked up a copy of Cursed Daughters by Oyinkan Braithwaite in preparation for my June discussion with This Browne Girl Reads, and I was genuinely excited to dive in. I enjoyed My Sister the Serial Killer, so I was eager to see what Braithwaite would do with a multi-generational narrative rooted in superstition, grief, and the weight of family legacy.

The novel follows the women of the Falodun family across generations. Set in Lagos, Nigeria, the story opens with death of Monife. On the same day as her funeral, her cousin, Ebun, who she grew up with, gives birth to a daughter, Eniiyi. Eniiyi is the spitting image of Monife, and many believe her to be the reincarnation of her second cousin. As she grows up, Eniiyi spends most of her life trying to outrun Monife’s shadow and the expectations that come with it.

And if that’s not enough for a young woman to carry, layered on top is the family’s long-held curse: “No man will call your house home. And if they try, they will not have peace.” This superstition has shaped, and devastated, the lives of Falodun women for generations, and Eniiyi becomes determined to break it.

The novel moves between timelines and perspectives, offering chapters from Eniiy’s present-day life, Monife’s backstory, and Ebun’s experiences as both cousin and mother. Braitwaite builds these threads with care, creating a rich tapestry of love, loss, longing, and the complicated ways women inherit both trauma and strength from those who came before them.

This novel is rich in content and has much literary depth. With many secondary characters and intertwined histories, the family tree at the front of the book is a welcomed guide. I really enjoyed the journey this novel took me on from its action-packed opening to its satisfying conclusion. It made me think about a lot of things:

Who decides what stories we inherit?
How much of our lives are shaped by our parents and ancestors?
And what does it take to break free and create our own path?

It sparked a lively and meaningful discussion during book club, which is always the sign of a great read.

Recommendation: This was a wonderful summer read, and I would highly recommend it to someone who enjoys literary fiction and wants a story rooted in a fresh cultural perspective. Braithwaite delivers a unique, thought-provoking that lingers long after the last page.

James by Percival Everett

Rating: 3 of 5 stars

Pages: 320 pages
Published: March 2024

Every so often, a book is released and suddenly, it’s everywhere—the talk of the literary world, the winner of major awards, the darling of critics and book clubs alike. That was James by Percival Everett in 2024. I bought my copy in 2025 and finally read it this year. Sorry, not sorry, but I don’t get the hype. Everett is often praised as an exceptional and prolific writer, and while that may be true, this novel simply didn’t work for me.

Marketed as a retelling of The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain through the eyes of Jim, who we learn prefers James, the concept immediately intrigued me. I expected a story that offered fuller representation and deeper humanity than Twain’s original. In preparation I reread Huckleberry Finn, which was a challenge due to the heavy dialect spoken by every character. So, when I began James, I appreciated the clear, more accessible dialogue.

But the story itself is not a retelling in the traditional sense. It felt as though Everett borrowed the characters then placed them in an entirely different plot and setting. The connection to Twain’s novel was tenuous at best, and that disconnect made it difficult for me to settle into the narrative.

However, my biggest issue was the extreme brutality depicted throughout the book. While I understand the importance of acknowledging the horrors of enslavement, the graphic nature of these scenes felt excessive, at times exploitative, and not really necessary to move the plot forward. I was disappointed that a novel written by a person of color leaned so heavily into violence without adding meaningful depth to the story. I also found the major plot twist toward the end, and James actions after revealing it, to be a bit ridiculous and a bit of a stereotypical trope. Finally, every female character seemed to exist solely as a plot device, never fully developed or given emotional complexity.

Many people say this book is humorous. I did not find it funny. I found it horrifying and disappointing, despite the glowing reviews and widespread acclaim.

Recommendation: I often say here, not every book is for every one, and this one was definitely not for me. The concept is brilliant, but the execution just didn’t do it for me. Perhaps, I will try another of Everett’s books in the future.

Paper Ghosts by Sarah Addison Allen

Rating: 3 of 5 stars

Pages: 304 pages
Published: September 2026

I received an uncorrected advanced reader's copy of Paper Ghosts by Sarah Addison Allen via NetGalley. After absolutely loving Other Birds, I was eager to dive into Sarah Addison Allen’s latest novel. The story is about three generations of peculiar, reclusive women who live in a fictional North Carolina town. For many years, the Wester women have harbored secrets that have fueled intrigue, rumors, and fear within their community. When the estranged Wester granddaughter returns home, even more questions surface and long-buried truths begin to rise.

While Allen brings her signature writing style with a touch of magical realism, the story still, unfortunately, didn’t land for me in the same way as Other Birds. This story had an intriguing premise with a vacillating timeline, but the plot felt rushed, and the connection between the earlier time period and the current storyline was not tied together well, leaving many details for me to piece together on my own.

I also struggled with the characters. They felt underdeveloped, and I never found myself root for, or even liking, any of them. The inclusion of a same-sex relationship had the potential to add depth, but instead it felt more like a diversity checkbox than an integral part of the story or the character’s growth or the story arc.

I really wanted to love this book, especially given how much I enjoyed the author’s previous work. I did appreciate her Other Birds easter egg. However, in the end, Paper Ghosts fell flat. Here’s hoping the next release brings back the magic I know Sarah Addison Allen is capable of creating!

Recommendation: While I wouldn't highly recommend this novel, I would definitely recommend the author. Allen's body of work is worth exploring, even if this one missed the mark for me.

Kin by Tayari Jones

Rating: 4 of 5 stars

Pages: 368 pages
Published: February 2026

After reading An American Marriage in 2018 and absolutely loving it, I couldn't wait to dive into Tayari Jones' latest novel, Kin. It's a coming-of-age novel that follows two motherless daughters – Vernice (Niecy) and Annie – born and raised in 1950s and 60s Louisiana as "cradle friends" whose lives are shaped by the absence of their mothers as well as their strong bond as friends. Though they grow up side by side, the circumstances surrounding their mothers' absence place them on opposite sides of the tracks in the eyes of their community. As they reach adulthood, they take two vastly different paths: Niecy goes to Spelman College in Atlanta, Georgia and Annie embarks on a risky journey to Tennessee in search of her mother. Through alternating perspectives, Jones explores sisterhood, maternal absence, identity, and the ties –and traumas– that shape who we become. Despite the miles between them, the girls' friendship and bond endures through it all.

I hesitated to write this review because Jones is such a gifted and talented writer, I feel that my words could never do her work justice. However, I do review everything I read in this space, and I did enjoy this book; not as much as the previous work because it's a very different story. But I have always and will always appreciate a beautifully-constructed sentence, and this author is an absolute master of language that evokes emotion. Her prose is captivating and transportive in that she places you directly inside her characters' worlds, allowing you the feel their longing, their fear, their hope, and the complicated positions they occupy. And then, at the end of this novel, after Jones has taken you on this emotional journey, she just breaks your heart wide open. (No spoilers: You just have to read it!)

I won't say anymore other than, please go get this book and read it today. And if you're someone who judges a book by its cover, this one is just as stunning on the outside as wonderfully written within.

Recommendation: Writing is a craft, and I can appreciate when it's done well. Literary fiction is my jam, and Kin had all the elements of an engaging and immersive read. Though nearly 400 pages, it hardly felt like it at all.

Keeper of Lost Children by Sadeqa Johnson

Rating: 5 of 5 stars

Pages: 464 pages
Published: February 2026

Keeper of Lost Children by Sadeqa Johnson came recommended to me by one of my reading buddies who also enjoys historical fiction, and I’m so glad I picked it up. This novel unfolds across two timelines: one set in Europe during World War II and the other during the Civil Rights era in Maryland. Each chapter is told from the third-person perspective of three distinct characters:

Ethel Gathers, a U.S. soldier’s wife, living abroad, who feels compelled to help orphaned children find suitable homes
Ozzie Philips, a young man who enlists in the newly desegregated U.S. Army in the late 1940s
Sophia Clark, a bright student offered a coveted spot at a prestigious boarding school that’s just been desegregated.

Johnson moves between these three characters, dedicating a chapter to each while slowly building their respective backstories. She aptly moves between the timelines, and her vivid storytelling brings emotional clarity to the events shaping each character’s life. As a reader, I felt truly guided by her prose; never quite sure where the plot would twist and turn, but confident Johnson tie everything together in the end (which I’d been told she is well known for, and now I understand why!)

One of the most compelling aspects of the novel is its exploration of bi-racial children born during World War II. Many of these children were fathered by soldiers and left behind, unacknowledged by their fathers and unwelcome in their mothers’ home countries. This history was both fascinating and heartbreaking, and Johnson handles it with care. It’s part of the war’s legacy that’s rarely discussed, and the novel shines an important light on it.

Johnson is a gifted, well-researched storyteller, something evident by her extensive author’s notes. Her characters are complex, flawed, and deeply human; each one leaving a lasting impression. Even when their choices were difficult to witness, they felt authentic and emotionally grounded.

Recommendation: I thoroughly enjoyed this book and appreciated that it provided a fresh perspective on the far-reaching impact of World War II. Books like this are difficult yet necessary as they help paint a fuller picture of history we may not have known. I look forward to reading more of Johnson’s work in the future.

Grown Women by Sarai Johnson

Rating: 4 of 5 stars

Pages: 320 pages
Published: May 2024

Grown Women by Sarai Johnson was the monthly author chat selection for the Modern Mrs. Darcy online Book Club, and it immediately pulled me into the lives of four generations of women all bound by tender yet tumultuous mother-daughter relationships. The novel spans several decades, beginning with Charlotte, who is on the cusp of becoming a new mother while facing a difficult situation. From there, we follow a coming-of-age arc as Charlotte raises Corinna and later Corinna raises her daughter, Camille. Each woman navigates traumatic situations, familial secrets, and the complicated work of trying to love one another in a family where silence often speaks louder than words. Midway through the story we meet Charlotte's mother, Evelyn, who adds another complicated layer to the story. With so many intertwined storylines, and three characters whose names begin with the same letter, I occasionally found myself needing to pause and reorient myself.

This is Johnson's debut novel, and I think she handled the weight of these layered themes with care. She writes the bonds between the women with honesty and nuance. I didn't walk away from the book loving every character, but I did walk away believing them. Each woman is written in a realistic and imperfect way. Both the mother's and daughters' unresolved pain shapes their choices and their relationships, leading to truly heartbreaking moments that felt so real.

Though the book explores a great deal of darkness, there is a bit of light. There are moments of connection, clarity, and hope that help break up the heaviness. This quiet strand of hope woven throughout the novel reminds us that healing and maturing is rarely linear. And because of each character's resilience, I did find myself rooting for a peaceful ending for each of them.

Overall, I appreciated the journey of getting to sit with these characters and watch their stories unfold. I believe Johnson did an excellent job of developing them, giving each one's story care and depth. Having said that, after investing the time in reading the book, the ending felt a bit abrupt, almost like a door slamming shut just as I was stepping through. Upon reflection, I realized I had anticipated more closure and more space to breathe after such immersive storytelling.

Recommendation: Grown Women is a powerful, emotionally resonant novel that explores the complexities of mother-daughter relationships with honesty and heart. I would recommend this title to fans of literary fiction, multigenerational sagas, and stories that include both the darkness and the light.

Dominion by Addie E. Citchens

Rating: 4.5 of 5 stars

Pages: 230 pages
Published: August 2025

Dominion by Addie E. Citchens is a bold debut novel centered on a pastor’s family, flock, and the church that shapes and controls their lives. As the story opens, we meet the seemingly perfect Reverend Sabre Winfrey Jr., his loyal wife, Priscilla and their youngest and most popular son of five, Wonderboy who is quietly navigating a relationship with Diamond.

Set in a deeply religious Southern community in the small Mississippi town of Dominion, the novel exposes how faith can be weaponized. Citchens paints a vivid and unsettling portrait of this world where heterosexual male dominance is not only normalized but sanctified, and greatly affects the development of these characters. The church’s influence permeates every aspect of life, dictating behavior, reinforcing gender hierarchy, and leaves little room for diversity of thought.

The inciting event arrives when Wonderboy, student athlete, local heartthrob, and pride of the community, experiences a strange and disorienting encounter with a stranger on his school’s running track. This eerie event shifts the entire trajectory of the novel. From there, the story turns darker exposing oppressed feelings of guilt and shame that challenges the pastor’s reputation and authority. This leads to the uncovering of dark secrets that threaten to unravel the fragile order in the small community.

What follows is a sweeping emotional journey of epic proportions that require Priscilla, and Diamond to make some difficult choices about the flawed relationships they both have with their respective Winfrey men. The novel doesn’t shy away from violence of sexual assault, making parts of it difficult to read. But even in the darkness, the author threads moments of hope, especially through the women who begin to claim agency over their own lives. Their pursuit of independence becomes one of the most triumphant elements of the story.

Recommendation: Dominion is relatable in many aspects and undeniably dark. The conclusion isn’t traditionally satisfying, but it made sense to me and felt true to the story. If you’re looking for a thought-provoking novel that interrogates faith, patriarchy, and also sparks lively book club discussion, I highly recommend Dominion.

The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain

Rating: 2 of 5 stars

Pages: 327 pages
Published: January 1885

I grabbed a free electronic copy of The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain from the Fable reading app as a bit of a homework assignment. I wanted to reread this novel as an adult and in preparation for my virtual book club's upcoming read of James by Percival Everett in the months to follow. Since James reimagines the story from Jim's perspective, I wanted to revisit the original text to gain a better appreciation of the modern retelling. It's been years, OK decades, since I read this book, and approaching it now as a more well-read and more critical reader gave me a very difference experience.

At just over 300 pages, The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn is not long. It follows the titular character, who is referred to as Huck, as he escapes his abusive (and possibly unstable) father and travels down the Mississippi River with Jim, an enslaved man seeking reunification with his family. On their journey, they meet con men, feuding families, and a series of misadventures. Many literary scholars consider this book the great American novel, praising Twain's use of an engaging plot and sharp satire meant to expose the hypocrisy and moral contradictions of the pre-Civil War era in the United States.

Despite its critical and historical acclaim, I didn't fully enjoy it. The dialect, while intentional by the author, made for a very challenging read. I read the book in small doses - a couple of pages at a time - as I had to remain extremely focused to discern not only what Jim was saying (as a lot of readers have noted) but the speech patterns of Huck Finn, Tom Sawyer, and the other secondary characters. So, as I mentioned it's not a long book, but it certainly felt that way. Beyond the heavy, indistinguishable dialects, I struggled with the stereotypes. Jim is a main part of the story, yet he's frequently reduced to a caricature, often only being use as a plot device to move the story along. I felt he was very underdeveloped and his humanity was sacrificed for the ignorance and antics of Tom Sawyer, Aunt Sally and the like. Yes, the book was written "post-slavery" but still during a deeply unjust period in American history. And frankly, I just don't think Twain, as a white man in the late 1800s, was equipped to tell Jim's part of the story with the respect it deserved.

No spoilers here, but after trudging through more than two-thirds of the book, the ending fell flat for me. The tonal shift, the reappearance of certain characters, and the way Jim's fate is handled did the whole adventure a disservice. I think there was a missed opportunity for deeper reflection and a more meaningful resolution. But again, reading this in 2026, maybe the author simply wasn't capable of delivering that in his time.

Long story short: I didn't enjoy the book, but I am glad I read it. It's a classic for a reason, and I think reading it again will provide a richer experience when I pick up James later this year.

Recommendation: On this blog, I often say, not every book is for everyone, and this is a prime example for me. Twain couldn't tell a Jim's story with proper representation because it wasn't one he lived or was even stood adjacent to. This makes me all the more excited to read Percival Everett's take. I have high hopes his perspective will be more inclusive and attuned to Jim's point of view. More on that later!

Heartwood by Amity Gaige

Rating: 5 of 5 stars

Pages: 320 pages
Published: April 2025

I ran across Heartwood by Amity Gaige at the local Barnes & Noble. I found the cover art beautiful and the synopsis intriguing; however, I left the bookseller without making the purchase. The premise stuck with me, and I later checked my local library to request the electronic copy. As luck would have it, in just a few days, the library's copy became available for me to borrow.

The story is about Valerie Gillis, a 40-something nurse who decides to hike the challenging Appalachian Trail from Georgia to Maine. She nearly completes the challenge when she goes missing. The bulk of the novel alternates between the nurse, Beverly, who is the game warden in charge of Valerie's missing persons search, and Lena, a retiree who believes she holds critical information to solving the case. The novel moves at a steady paces as the reader follows the linear events to solve the mystery and learn Valerie’s fate.

The search is the basic plot device of the novel, but there are underlying themes that add to its complexity. Overall, Heartwood is a layered exploration of mother-daughter relationships. Gaige’s thought-provoking prose through Valerie, Beverly, and Lena’s pondering captures the tenderness, tension, and misunderstandings of the complicated bonds between this familial relationship. The author writes with emotional clarity, offering scenes that are rich in description and meaning. Reading about these three focus female characters and the relationships they developed with their respective mothers made me reflect on the relationship I have with my own mother.

Beyond that, the inciting action and following mystery are both compelling as the plot is based on a similar real-life story. Knowing this added a poignant layer to my reading experience. Despite the heaviness of its origins, the novel leans in to healing and offers a sense of hope, not in a tidy and unrealistic way, but in a way that honors resilience, forgiveness, and growth.

About Books

“Lena knew that without books, there was nothing but time.” -p. 47

“A reader is never lonely.” - p. 106

Profound Thoughts

“How strange to shout the words, ‘I’m here!” and be left with no confirmation.” -p. 87

“The one who has the most to prove works harder, works until she bleeds, works all day and night, takes every call, dispenses with the weekend.” -p. 170

“No, the real sorrow of human life is that we feel. That’s our affliction.” -p. 258

“Hate is just soured love. Fear is wounded love. Longing is homeless love.” -p. 302

Mother-Daughter Relationships

“Once you see that your daughter suffers, you must acknowledge that you are impotent and perhaps even insufficient as her mother and protector.” -p. 236

“The real mother, the mother you get, you’ve got to love her, there’s no choice. She is the mother you needed. She gave you strength, either because she loved you well or because she loved you poorly. She gave you your mission. It’s the dream mother you have to let go of. The one you pined for, the one you thought your decency promised you. She’s the one you’ve got to bury. She’s a mirage. She’ll only break your heart.” -p. 273

Gaige does an excellent job of painting a realistic picture without making the novel too sad. She doesn’t shy away from the difficult aspects of family life, but she also doesn’t leave the reader in the midst of despair. Gaige carefully and thoughtfully guides the reader toward quiet optimism that is honest and human.

I would consider this book a readalike to The God of the Woods by Liz Moore or Wild by Cheryl Strayed.

Recommendation: If you are like me and enjoy a beautifully constructed sentence, an engaging story, and realistic emotional family dynamics between mothers and daughters, you might consider adding Heartwood to your list. This reflective story is an invitation to consider how we love, heal, and survive the hardest times; which is especially relevant right now.

Vera Wong's Unsolicited Advice for Murders by Jesse Q. Sutanto

Rating: 5 of 5 stars

Pages: 352 pages
Published: March 2023

Vera Wong's Unsolicited Advice for Murderers was my first read by Jesse Q. Sutanto, and I picked it up to read along with the Modern Mrs. Darcy Book Club. I'm so glad I did. This cozy mystery brings together a lively community of San Francisco residents who are all connected by a suspicious death that occurred in the titular character's tea shop. What follows if less about the murder and more about the relationships and healing that result from the unexpected tragedy.

I respected how this novel explored themes of estranged family members, ageism, and the universal desire to belong. Vera is a wonderfully quirky character, who might seem overbearing at first, but whose quirks become an endearing part of her personality. As the central literary figure, she becomes the glue that holds this mismatched community together. Sutanto beautifully illustrates how community can emerge from the most diverse group of people an unlikely circumstances. The connection, rather than the answer to the mystery, becomes the integral component of healing for all the individuals touched by this death.

Another aspect I really appreciated was how prominently the Asian culture was woven throughout the story. From traditions to family dynamics to language and humor, the culture richness added depth and authenticity from the author. It was a nice reminder that fiction, while imagined, can be based in fact and a powerful teacher by offering a window to experiences, histories, and identities that may be different from our own.

And bonus! As a foodie, I was drooling at the descriptions of Asian cuisine. I found myself craving noodles, dumplings, and the speciality teas as described by the Sutanto. There is emotional power in food, and the author used this device in her storytelling to show how food comforts, connects, and communicates love without saying a word. Cooking for someone is its own kind of tenderness.

Recommendation: This cozy mystery has heart, humor, and a strong sense of community and friendship. It's culturally rich and full of memorable characters. And the best part? You don't have to leave Vera behind once you're finished. There's a second book, Vera Wong's Guide to Snooping (on a Dead Man), and you guessed it, it's on my list to read soon!

Say You'll Remember Me by Abby Jimenez

Rating: 5 of 5 stars

Pages: 416 pages
Published: April 2025

Well, Abby Jimenez has done it again. Say You'll Remember Me delivers all the lovely, funny romantic-comedy moments she's known for, but it also reaches deeper. The story explores emotional themes of abandonment, complicated family dynamics, and the challenges of caring for a loved one with dementia. Jimenez's books are always lighthearted, but they also pack a punch by pairing the romantic and comedic elements with more thoughtful elements. This story is no exception. Like many of her others, this is the kind of story that sneaks up on you. One minute you're laughing so hard you're wiping away tears, and then a few pages later you're truly crying for an entirely different reason.

I've read many of Jimenez's books over the years, and they always give me all the feels. Her storytelling style is comforting like a nice warm cup of hot cocoa on a cold day. She does a great job balancing real-life heaviness with hopeful promise. And her novels can be a bit formulaic and predictable, but honestly that's part of the charm. When you pick up one of Jimenez's books, you know you're going to confront some hard truths. But when you turn the last page, you feel full of hope and inspiration. And sometimes, that's exactly what I need in my reading journey.

In this latest book, the reader jumps right into a Minnesota meet-cute between Samantha and veterinarian Xavier when Samantha brings her kitten to his clinic. At first the doctor comes off as emotionally distant and a bit rash in his bedside manner, but his tough exterior is all a facade as he's trying to cover up his attraction. After a memorable first date, he learns Samantha is moving back to California the next day to help her family. Samantha thinks this is a one and done, and Xavier wants to respect her boundaries, but sometimes love knows no distance and a tender, heartfelt relationship unfolds.

Recommendation: If you're a fan of romantic comedies with emotional weight, this deserves a spot on your TBR today. Jimenez gives us what she's best known for - a sincere story that blends humor and vulnerability. And what's more is this book is the first in a series, with the second one scheduled to release this spring. You already know I'll be snagging a copy.

The Wilderness by Angela Flournoy

Rating: 2.5 of 5 stars

Pages: 304 pages
Published: September 2025

When I first read the synopsis of Angela Flournoy's, The Wilderness, I was genuinely excited about reading it. A coming-of-age story about a group of Black women growing together through their young adulthood to mid-life? Sign me up! The novel sets out to explore how their friendships evolved over the years. At its core, the novel is about connection - how they support one another, the histories they share, and how they sometimes disappoint each other and themselves. Friendship and personal growth are two themes I'm always drawn too, plus I love literary fiction, so I was eager to see how the author would bring this story together.

The story began strong, but the execution quickly let me down. It was very difficult for me to settle into the narrative because Flournoy uses a non-linear timeline, shifting between characters with no structural set-up. These abrupt transitions often left me disoriented as I read. I spent a large part of the reading trying to figure out where the characters were in time and which character I was following. Perhaps Flournoy used this device to help the reader experience those confusing yet pivotal seasons of adulthood. However, for me, it didn't deepen the emotional impact. Conversely, the structure weakened the story, and the message was lost.

Another challenge for me was the way the characters' voices were written. The women all shared similar tone, so it made it difficult to distinguish one from another until a clarifying detail was presented revealing which character was driving a particular chapter and where I, as the reader, found myself in the journey of their lives and friendships. While this stylistic choice may have been intentional to highlight the friends' (and possibly the readers') shared experiences, it again created confusion and made it harder to connect with each woman as an individual.

I recently watched a virtual author talk featuring Flournoy, and her passion for writing is undeniable and inspiring. I have heard rave reviews about her debut novel, The Turner House. And to be fair, I saw glimpses of her talent in how she captured the elements of womanhood, friendships, and relationships as well as how these evolve as life becomes more complicated. I can see why some readers have connected with this book, and why it has received critical acclaim. My experience may very well be in the minority.

Recommendation: If you enjoy character-driven stories, non-linear structures, and don't mind a reading journey that feels a little disjointed, this may be the book for you. While I didn't fully appreciate this novel, the presented themes of connection and enduring bonds of friendship still resonated.

The Reformatory by Tananarive Due

Rating: 5 of 5 stars

Pages: 576 pages
Published: October 2023

My final review of 2025 features a horror-meets-historical fiction masterpiece by Tananarive Due. The Reformatory is one of those novels that lingers long after you've finished its nearly 600-pages; not because of goblins and ghosts but because of the very real history it resurrects. Inspired by the notorious Dozier School for Boys in Florida, which claimed to rehabilitate young boys for decades, this novel exposes the brutality of such institutions.

Set in Jim Crow-era Florida in the fictional Gracetown, the story's inciting incident happens very early in the book when young, 12-year old Robbie Stephens, Jr. finds himself unjustly punished for simply trying to protect his older sister from the unwanted advances of a local white boy. For this, he is sentenced to six months at Gracetown School for Boys. What follows is a chilling blend of historical fiction and supernatural horror that exposes the extreme violence embedded in U.S. correctional institutions and the resilience required to survive them.

Some common themes that spoke to me upon completing the book included epigenetics, horror through different perspectives, and the power of storytelling.

Epigenetics is the study of how experiences can influence gene expression without altering DNA. It's controversial, but at face value, I believe it holds merit. Specifically, in this novel, we see how trauma echos across generations. This story is an illustration of how the body and spirit remember what the world tries to erase. The long lineage of cruelty Black people have faced at the hands of white people (e.g., Stephens vs. McCormacks and Robbie vs. Haddock) is woven throughout the book. That's the hard part the author carefully cultivates. Yet alongside that is the inherited perseverance and will to survive injustice that becomes its own kind of ancestral memory.

The novel also challenges the idea that horror is a universal experience. For many, horror conjures images of ghosts and goblins. In more recent mainstream culture, it's films like Scream, What Lies Beneath or Nightmare on Elm Street, where the supernatural is cause for fear. For Black people, horror often looks like everyday life: getting pulled over by the police, simply walking down the street or listening to music "too loudly", or monitoring language in corporate America so as not to be labeled as aggressive. It's systemic injustice, unchecked power, and the way institutions have long abused Black bodies. Due's intentional duality of this concept challenges the reader to reconsider the definition of fear. (There is a scene in the book where a character and her aunt get pulled over by the police, and my blood pressure literally spiked wile reading this fictional account because I've experienced it in reality.)

And that's the brilliance of Due's writing. It's vivid, descriptive, and incredibly accessible, which makes the subject matter even more devastating. She paints scenes with such clarity that you feel the heat, the fear, the claustrophobia. Her craft creates emotional resonance. While her writing is excellent, the subject matter is not. It's intentionally difficult provoking deep thoughts among its audience.

Recommendation: This was my first read by Due, and I know it won't be my last. The only thing I might change in the future is to avoid reading something like this during the holiday season. The author's storytelling is masterful, and her themes are deeply resonant. While her subject matter is painful, she takes care of the reader by offering a hopeful conclusion. This narrative was one I felt honored, not burdened, to consume.

Murder by Cheesecake: A Golden Girls Cozy Mystery by Rachel Ekstrom Courage

Rating: 4 of 5 stars

Pages: 336 pages
Published: April 2025

On a spontaneous trip to the bookstore, I totally judged a book by its cover, and picked up Murder by Cheesecake: A Golden Girls Cozy Mystery authored by Rachel Ekstrom Courage. This quaint read follows the story of the iconic quartet from the 1980s sitcom, The Golden Girls. Set during the same era as the show aired, the story centers around Dorothy's blind date who ends up dead in a hotel freezer, making her the first, and seemingly, only suspect. Meanwhile, Rose is determined to pull off a full-fledged traditional St. Olaf wedding for her niece. And just like the show, the book balances humor and heart to create a well-rounded, feel-good mystery.

As someone who has been a devoted fan of The Golden Girls for decades (I'm aging myself here!), I found myself smiling through many of Courage's callbacks to the beloved sitcom. The book feels like a gentle wink to those of us who grew up laughing a Dorothy's razor-sharp wit, Blanche's dramatic flair, Rose's earnest naivety, and Sophia's unforgettable one-liners. True to the cozy genre, the book isn't too serious, and Courage uses the established quirky characters to create charm and the murder to create just enough intrigue to keep the pages turning.

My only critique is that the story felt a little long in places. A tighter edit could have made the pacing a little stronger. However, taking on such iconic characters was a bold move, and overall, I think Courage pulled it off. I really appreciated the familiar voices, the predictable yet engaging plot, and the warmth and humor during the short days of December. It's exactly what I needed as I wrap up my reading year. And with reports that Courage is writing a second book, that will make this the beginning of a series, and I'll be honest. I'm probably going to pick that one up too!

Recommendation: If you're looking for a cozy mystery infused with nostalgia that blends humor, heard, and a bit of mischief, I highly recommend this one. It was a lovely reminder of why the show remains so beloved: stories of women empowerment, women supporting women, and sharing a little cheesecake to get them through it all.

Grace & Henry's Holiday Movie Marathon by Matthew Norman

Rating: 5 of 5 stars

Pages: 08:44:00
Published: October 2025

I found Matthew Norman's holiday audiobook, Grace & Henry's Holiday Movie Marathon, by way of one of my Fable bookclubs. There was supposed to be an ongoing read-along discussion throughout December, but the club fell flat. Thankfully, the book did not.

The book centers around Grace and Henry, both recently widowed, who are fixed up via a "chance" encounter orchestrated by their respective mothers. What unfolds is a tender story about them both navigating profound loss while rediscovering connection in the most unexpected way: their shared loved of holiday movies. Their movie marathon tradition starts out as two grieving people helping each other out, but turns into a thoughtful ritual that helps them both process their grief.

Even though the book centers around devastating loss, it never feels heavy. The author does an exceptional job at balancing sorrow with humor. Grace's quick wit, Henry's awkwardness, and the list of nostalgic Christmas movies are the perfect combination for a warm and comforting novel, just right for December reading.

I listened to this book. The pace was good the narration was done very well. Listening is not always my preference because my mind often wanders. However, this book really engaged me and kept my attention throughout.

Recommendation: If you're looking for a good holiday read that acknowledges the hard parts of life while delivering warmth and hope, this one is a great choice. It reminded me that even in trying season, connection can bring us back to ourselves.

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