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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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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Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey

Rating: 4.5 of 5 stars 

Duration: 06:42:00
Published: October 2020

Alright, alright, alright ... let me tell you all about Matthew McConaughey's memoir, Greenlights. Full disclosure - he is one of my favorite actors, and I admire his public persona and the causes he supports. I had this book on my TBR literally since it was published, and this year I am listening to my fair share of audiobooks so I snagged a copy from Audible, and it did not disappoint. 

The book is read by McConaughey, only as he can. He is, after all an actor. He makes his stories come to life just like he does on the big (and small) screen. Throughout the telling of his life, he shares what he labels as "green lights".  And while I may not have agreed with all of his conclusions, I appreciated the creativity in which these were shared. The author provides many back stories to some of his famous films like how unlikely it was for him to get cast as the lead in A Time to Kill, how Dallas Buyers Club almost didn't get made and how "alright, alright, alright" were the first words that launched his career. McConaughey does a great job reflecting back and looking forward.

My only criticism is the varying volume levels. I found that sometimes he was yelling rather than acting and it became distracting. Additionally, I think this is part of his true character; however, personally, I didn't care for all the very colorful language. I don't think it really added to the stories he shared. 

Recommendation: In summary, McConaughey has taken his passion, acting, and made a successful career of it, but more importantly he has made a well-rounded life for himself and his family. This book is another feather in his cap. I found it to be spiritual, thoughtful and methodical. At just under seven hours, it's a quick listen that provides private depth and knowledge to an otherwise very public person. I would recommend this for mature, adult listening and reading. 

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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Good Talk ... Good Talk by Ginny Andrews

Good Talk ... Good Talk by Ginny Andrews

Genre: Nonfiction / Humor / Comedy / Essays

Publisher: Ginny Andrews Comedy, LLC

Date of Publication: October 5, 2023

Pages: 171

Synopsis |  Praise |  Review |  Buy Now | About the Author | Giveaway

Raise your hand if you have ever run into a mannequin in a store and apologized. Continue to keep your hand raised if you want to pre-write thank you notes to those whom you anticipate attending your funeral because you suffer from chronic “way too nice” syndrome. Keep it up high if you have ever farted in church or yoga class. Man, my arm is getting tired!

Most people are awkward during the middle school years, grow out of it, and blossom into mature, well-functioning human beings…I’m still waiting for this to happen. Awkwardness is my hidden talent, although most who know me would tell you it isn’t hidden—it’s written on my forehead. My daily life is filled with epic failures. Sometimes I feel like I’m one big malfunction! As I have gotten older, I just try to embrace it.

After you read this collection of essays, hopefully you will be able to accept your imperfections too! Nope, probably not because I’m still not there! However, maybe my comedy will stick with you like that hemorrhoid you can’t seem to get rid of, like ever — Good Talk ... Good Talk.

Praise for Good Talk ... Good Talk

“Reading Ginny Andrews’s Good Talk. . .Good Talk is a lot like hanging out with that girlfriend that invariably makes you laugh until you cry." —Lauren Cassel Brownell, author of Zen and the Art of Housekeeping and Dying to Donate

“Good Talk ... Good Talk is a laugh out loud winner, filled with quirky stories reminiscent of Patrick McManus.” —J. Andersen, author of The Breeding Tree, The Gene Rift, and Legacy’s Impact

“Anyone with anxiety will totally relate to Ginny Andrews’ humorous tales of the struggle of day-to-day life in today’s world.” —John A.B., Amazon Reviewer

Rating: 3.5 of 5 stars 

Good Talk … Good Talk by Ginny Andrews is a relatively short, fast paced, and humorous collection of monologues written by a 40-something former high school teacher and coach who is trying on comedy for size. After reading her lighthearted and thoughtful book, I think comedy is something that will fit her pretty well. 

In each of the short 21 chapters of her debut, she shares little vignettes or essays about awkward encounters in her life. Andrews employs self-deprecating humor to provide not only insight to her life but society’s response as well. Her writing is easy to follow and I found myself laughing at many points throughout her vivid story-telling. If for nothing else, you should do yourself a favor and pick up this book to read chapter 8: Bengay in the Night. 

I found this book to be an easy read. My only criticism would be the overall structure of this book. Because each chapter as written as an essay, it’s almost like each chapter is standalone rather that components of the book as a whole. As a reader, I would have liked to see more of a thread through all of the chapters that tied the book together a little more succinctly. 

Recommendation: I enjoyed getting a peak into Andrews’ life. The stories she shares are sometimes emotional and often funny, proving that none of us should take this life too seriously. If you’ve ever found yourself replaying an awkward interaction in your mind, you just might relate to this book. I would recommend this as a quick weekend, pick-me-up 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.

Buy at Amazon | Add to Goodreads

Ginny Andrews is a former high school teacher and coach, who is now an aspiring comedian, speaker, and writer. She would greatly appreciate it if you purchased her book! Door Dash, dog-sitting, used car sales, lawn mowing, and selling random items found in her house aren't high paying gigs!

 

Connect with Ginny: Website | Facebook | Instagram | X (Twitter) | Goodreads | YouTube | Amazon | TikTok | BookBub

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Daisy Jones and the Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid

Rating: 4 of 5 stars 

Duration: 9:03:00
Published: March 2019

I had been hearing about Daisy Jones and the Six for years … probably ever since it published … then again when the limited series aired on Amazon Prime Video. I kept thinking I should try reading it, but other books got top billing. Well, an Audible promotion and recommendation that Taylor Jenkins Reid’s novel is best listened to prompted me to download an audio copy. And now, I am a fan girl of a totally fictional band. 

The story centers around Daisy Jones and a young band called The Six, led by the Dunne brothers. Both Daisy, as a solo artist, and The Six are trying to make a go of it in the music industry filled with underage sex and an overabundance of alcohol and drugs. Separate chance encounters with a successful producer provide the impetus for him to put the two together. There is a lot of conflict and sexual tension between Daisy and the older Dunne brother, Billy, that fuels the fire for creativity and catapults the group to stardom. Then, at the height of their success, the group disbands never to play together again and no one knows why. The present-day story is set up in documentary style, decades later, with each member sharing through flashbacks their respective memories and perspective on what happened. 

The audiobook is truly a treat to listen to. There’s a cast of characters, many of whom are well-known actors, who take on the personality traits of each character and really make the story come to life. While listening I kept wanting to hear the music. And that’s the bonus about Daisy Jones and the Six, Reese Witherspoon as producer with writers Scott Neustadter and Michael H. Weber bring the story to life. I am typically a person who always says the book was better. And the book was good, but the musical drama made the story so much better, allowing the characters to show us the chemistry among them just as well as Jenkins Reid told us. 

Recommendation: I highly recommend consuming this story via audio, and I equally recommend watching the TV series after you read the book. As with most adaptations, there were some liberties taken. And then, when you’re still jonesing (pun intended) for more, take a listen to the soundtrack on Spotify. 

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 Two Lives of Lydia Bird by Josie Silver

Rating: 4 of 5 stars
Pages: 369 pages
Published: March 2020

Last year I read One Day in December by Josie Silver and enjoyed it. I was excited to see this as a Book of the Month Club (BOTM) suggestion. Because I am trying to be realistic, I only purchase one book per month from BOTM. For this month, I chose to purchase another book and I borrowed The Two Lives of Lydia Bird from the Fort Worth Digital Library. I am glad I did. 

The protagonist, Lydia, had been with her long-time boyfriend, Freddie since high school. Now in their 30s, the two were engaged to be married when he was tragically killed on Lydia's birthday in a car accident. On top of that, his best friend Jonah, who Lydia doesn't particularly care for, survived. This story is about Lydia's path to healing. In her grief, she finds a way to connect with her lost love through somewhat of a fantastical realm. These encounters help her learn more about herself and what her identity will be post-Freddie. In her real life, she goes through the stages of grief with the help of her sister, Elle, and her mom. This book is truly a story of personal growth. 

In its totality I enjoyed this story. The first two-thirds of the book were very sad and read quite slow for me as I walked through the darkness with Lydia as she mourned her fiancé. The last part of the book picks up as she starts to discover herself and come out of her grief. And the ending was perfect. I think the book hit home with a lot of passages and how someone deals with losing someone who was close to them. 

Recommendation: I enjoyed this book. I don't know if I enjoyed it more than One Day in December. It was a different story that evoked different emotions, but I can say that I enjoyed them both. I recommend picking up a copy for yourself.

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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Evvie Drake Starts Over by Linda Holmes

Rating: 4.5 of 5 stars
Pages: 304 pages
Published: June 2019 

My mom heard about Evvie Drake Starts Over by Linda Holmes on one of the many morning TV talk shows. Knowing I'm an avid reader, she texted me information about the book back in July. I put it on my TBR list and got on the digital hold list at the local Library. The book became available a few weeks ago. I downloaded it but did not have time to read it until this past weekend. I was forced to finish it in just a day as my loan was set to expire on the following Monday. So, that's how this book found me, and to sum it up in a sentence, Evvie Drake Starts Over is an imperfectly perfect novel that features flawed but lovable characters, and it leaves the reader feeling completely satisfied upon completion.

Evvie (pronounced like Chevy) is the protagonist, and when the book opens she is preparing to leave her jerk husband (although he only seems to have been a jerk to Evvie) when she finds out he's just died in a car accident. Nearly a year after his death, to supplement her income Evvie takes in Dean, a boarder who is a major league baseball pitcher who recently experienced some trauma of his own. Together, these two develop a friendship that is, at times, frustrating but, more often, healing.

The thing I liked the most about this novel is that it featured a strong yet vulnerable female protagonist who learns to save herself, start anew, and create her own happiness. A lot of the plot is predictable, but the delight of this book is the journey in getting to the ending not necessarily the ending itself. I found the writing to be solid, the story engaging, and the characters relatable. This was my first Linda Holmes book, but I certainly hope it's not my last.

Recommendation:  I absolutely adored this book. It was a perfect weekend read that left me with a soft smile. If you enjoy romance comedies that leave you with a good feeling, you just might enjoy this gem.

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 Giver by Lois Lowry

Rating: 5 of 5 stars
Pages: 208 pages
Published: January 2006 (first published in 1993)

How old am I to be reading The Giver by Lois Lowry? In my opinion, books really have no age limit. Of course, there are certain books that are not suitable for youngsters, but I believe once you've reached my age, you can read anything you want - no judgement. Having said all that, I will offer up this explanation. I decided to read this book because my 6th grade niece is reading it for her language arts class, and I love reading and discussing books with all people, but especially her!

The Giver is essentially the OG of dystopian. Before The Hunger Games, there was this lovely book. It's about a utopian society where everything is calm and peaceful. All people are respectful and follow orders. Each family unit can only have up to two children. Careers are decided by a group of leaders. The days are formulaic. Everything is gray, dull ... and boring. When the protagonist, Jonas, reaches the age of majority where he is given his job in the community, he begins to see things in a new light. His eyes are opened to a world beyond any he's ever known, and with this knowledge comes great responsibility.

I don't typically enjoy dystopian. Had I known that this was the genre, I probably would have gone into it with a different mindset. The reason I don't like reading dystopian is because of the few books I've read, it all seems hopeless and dire. I can't reconcile it with my reality, so I struggle. The difference with this book is that I do think it's filled with hope and promise. As I understand it, Lowry went on to write more books in the series. I don't know if I'll tackle those, (Although, I suppose my niece could convince me.) but I throughly enjoyed this one. Many other reviewers have balked at the ending; however this was my favorite part. I think most people either love it or hate it. If you've read The Giver or intend to, I'd love to hear your thoughts about the ending in the comments below.

Recommendation: This is a quick read for all ages. I recommend it as a nice escape from reality that evokes a myriad of emotions.

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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On the Come Up by Angie Thomas

Rating: 3 of 5 stars
Length: 447 pages
Published: February 2019

On the Come Up by Angie Thomas is about sixteen-year old Bri, who is an aspiring rapper. Haunted by the ghost of her father's past, she is trying to make a name for herself in hopes of lifting her family above the poverty line. This young adult novel is set in the same neighborhood of Thomas' debut, The Hate U Give. As such many of the themes, dialect, and characters are similar. It is important to note that while the sophomore book tangentially touches on the first book, it is not required reading to understand the plot.

This book was a quick read about an interesting topic. I liked how Thomas demonstrated how the main character came up with her rhymes. I also think the author did a good job of illustrating the internal and external struggles that Bri faced. Some of Bri's actions and obstinance were a little frustrating, but I suspect parents of teenagers reading this book would be able to attest that her behavior was realistic (smile, parents!). 

Like the first book, I found the characters in On the Come Up to be very real, and I believe this story is another version of Thomas sharing a part of herself. However, I did not enjoy this book as much as the first. The lifestyle and struggles that the protagonist suffer are not relatable to me. Having said that, they are meaningful. Additionally, this is a young adult novel. I am not the target audience, so I don't think it's really a criticism if the book didn't move me as a mid-lifer. 

Recommendation: I find Angie Thomas to be a talented writer who, in a creative way, exposes some of her own past and vulnerabilities through her writing. This is important for young adults, and I think it would be a great read for mature teenagers, especially those who enjoy poetry and prose. Please note the book does have some violence and a fair amount of curse words.   

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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Black Girl in Paris by Shay Youngblood

Rating: 3 of 5 stars
Length: 256 pages
Published: January 2001

The theme for the Mocha Girls Read book of the month in January was Paris. As a group, we voted to read Black Girl in Paris by Shay Youngblood. This relatively short and extremely beautiful book was essentially a coming of age story for its protagonist, Eden, and a lovely way to kick off 2019.

Black Girl in Paris is the story of a young lady and budding writer who picks up from her home in the United States with a little money and travels to Europe in search of the greatness that author James Baldwin wrote about. While there she encounters many people while trying to make a living and find creative inspiration in Paris. 

One thing I found it interesting about this book is that Youngblood set it in the 80s while writing it in the millennium. It could have just as easily been set in the time in which it was written. I suspect the author may have done this to demonstrate just how far way from home Eden traveled. With the technology today (and in the early part of the turn of the century), it's so much easier to be close even when there's great physical distance. 

Black Girl in Paris reads like a collection of chronological essays. Youngblood's prose is excellent and you want to follow her as a writer and Eden as the main character on this journey of self discovery. This book definitely kept me interested. This is not something I would have read but for book club. And that is one of the greater purposes of book club. I am glad I was able to partake and participate. 

My ultimate takeaway from this story is that we cannot escape racism no matter the time nor location. 

Recommendation: If you love Paris and the pursuit of one's dreams, this quick read might pique your interest. 

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 Wedding Date by Jasmine Guillory

Rating: 3.5 of 5 stars
Length: 320 pages
Published: January 2018

In December, I read Jasmine Guillory's latest book - The Proposal with my book club. In January, The Wedding Date, Guillory's debut book was selected by another book club. It didn't make too much of a difference that I read the books out of order. They stand alone but also some of the characters crossover. I enjoyed The Proposal, and because of that I'm giving The Wedding Date 4 stars on social sites. However, my overall rating is 3.5 stars. 

The Wedding Date and The Proposal are very similar. They both fall in the chick lit genre with a young woman at the center as the protagonist who unexpectedly meets a guy and jumps in to a fast-moving relationship that is halted by some internal struggle. Guillory seems to be developing a bit of a predictable formula with her books. While The Wedding Date seemed a little redundant to me, I do appreciate the fact that the author attempts to tackle some important issues like race, body image, and the criminal justice system in a fun and light read. That certainly takes skill! 

My main criticism with both of her books is the overabundance of sex and intimate scenes. I thought it was a little much in The Proposal, almost to the point of over-sexualizing Nik. In The Wedding Date, I feel that Guillory definitely over-sexualized Alexa. The scenes are tastefully written, but there's just too many of them. I am hopeful that her next book The Wedding Party (set to publish in July) will include more character and relationship development and less bedroom scenes. (Ms. Guillory, if you are reading this, I know you know that women of color are more than sexual beings. There are many facets to us. Please don't forget to share those other facets in your literary quests.) 

This was another fun read. I can see the growth and progression of the author's craft from book 1 to 2, even though I read them in reverse. I look forward to seeing where her next adventure takes me. 

Recommendation: With Valentine's Day and Galentine's Day quickly approaching, pick up a copy of The Wedding Date. It will be a fun and quick read over a cold winter weekend. 

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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Becoming by Michelle Obama

Rating: 5 of 5 stars
Length: 19:03:00
Narrated by: Michelle Obama
Published: November 2018

Unless you live under a rock, you know that this fall Becoming by former First Lady of the United States of America, Michelle Obama, was published and has quickly become (aha, see what I did there?) a bestseller. I pre-ordered the book via Audible earlier this year and began listening as soon as it was available. 

As I was selecting keyword tags for this post, I considered choosing politics. I decided against it because this is a book about the life of Michelle LaVaughn Robinson Obama. While she does share behind the scenes information about her husband's politics and his successful, consecutive presidential campaigns, the book is her life story. Furthermore, she makes it very clear that she does not enjoy politics nor does she have any political aspirations of her own. During the 2018 mid-term elections, I read an article about Heidi Cruz (wife of Texas Senator Ted Cruz) and how she, at times, feels relegated to simply being the wife of Ted Cruz rather than the educated, professional, individual person she is. I think this happens to many women who are connected with high profile men - once again proving what the Obamas have often said - we are all more alike than we are different. So, if you have not read Becoming and decide to embark on Mrs. Obama's life journey thus far, please read it with an autobiographical lens that happens to include the 44th President of the United States. 

The book begins with Mrs. Obama's childhood and she works her way chronologically through her formative years, her Princeton and Harvard years, meeting Barack Obama, her struggles conceiving their children, the family's journey to the White House, pretty much through present day. It is her detailed, personal account. While listening to her masterfully read the book, I felt like she was a good friend sharing a phenomenal story. Many of the stories she shared I recalled from the not too distant past, some were new to me, and others offered a different view from the accounts by the news media. 

The aspect of Mrs. Obama's life that resonated most with me was her constant relationship with the media - traditional and social. In the book, she often mentions being under the never-ending microscope of society by way of the media. This, of course, is what politicians and their families take on in their service to their city, county, state, and country. However, as anyone could imagine, it seemed to weigh on Mrs. Obama at times. A full two years post-office, and just the other day I witnessed one of my Facebook connections refer to Mrs. Obama as an animal. It's sad. It's demoralizing, and it's not right. As Mrs. Obama noted in her book, the "office" of First Lady isn't an official one nor is it a paid position. When the current First Lady said that she is one of the "most bullied" people, her statement was met with laughter and jokes. But I don't really think she was far off the mark. Being in the public eye can be exhausting. We, as private citizens, experience that via social media (some of us to a greater degree if one's messaging is extremely controversial and goes viral). I think our society would be much better served if we all extended some grace and kindness to one another - especially to those who are serving our country in various capacities. 

While the Mrs. Obama's memoir is just over 19 listening hours, it really didn't seem that long. Mrs. Obama has a great reading voice that helps guide the reader through her life story. There is so much detail, I certainly cannot give a comprehensive review. I can just say this - many First Ladies have written a book about their time in the White House, and this one is historical and worth reading. 

Recommendation: I would definitely recommend this read, especially the audio version. It was nice hearing Mrs. Obama's inflection and tone as she recounted some interesting and funny stories. It also evoked emotion when she demonstrated her vulnerabilities, making her more relatable to African Americans, women, and, most importantly, Americans. I'm told the hard copy book has a nice inset of photos. So, maybe buy a hard copy and get the audio companion also! 

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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Karma's A Killer by Tracy Weber

Rating: 4 of 5 stars
Length: 9:19:00
Narrator: Anne James
Published: March 2018

Karma's a Killer by Tracy Weber is the third in a series of cozy mysteries that features Kate Davidson, a yoga instructor, and her faithful canine companion, Bella. While this book is the third in the series, it stands alone and can be read independent of the other books in the Downward Dog Mystery series. The story centers around the murder of an animal rights activist, Raven, and the murder suspect, Dharma, who happens to be Kate's estranged mother. As a result of these tumultuous events, Kate finds herself in the midst of an informal investigation and race to find out the truth about her mother. 

I know the old saying is you can't judge a book by its cover, but this cover art was just so fun and piqued my interest. Once I started listening, the author wasted no time getting right to the action, thus engaging me as a reader. Weber's writing style is certainly suited for audio reading/listening. You can really see what she is describing. James, the narrator, also did a good job acting out the character's voices, making it easy for the reader to follow the plot. Overall, I found the story to be fast-moving with enough mystery elements and captivating dialogue to keep the reader following along. I also appreciated the strong portrayals of women in this story, specifically that of the protagonist and her best friend, Rene. 

I have very few critiques. At the beginning, I found the audio to be a little muffled and not as clear as some other audiobooks I've listened to; however, over time it got better and there was more clarity. I also could have done without Kate's seemingly obsession with weight. I would classify this book as chick lit, and I think the focus on women's physical appearance was a bit problematic. 

Recommendation: I really enjoyed this book, and I would recommend it to anyone interested in cozies, mysteries, or just a good book to enjoy over a relaxing weekend. 

Until next time ... Read on!

Thanks to Midnight Ink and Audiobookworm Promotions for an Audible.com copy of Karma's a Killer by Tracy Weber. 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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That One Moment by Patty Wiseman

Genre: Fiction / Romantic Suspense

Date of Publication: May 8, 2017

Pages: 258

Synopsis | My Review | Buy Now | About the Author | Giveaway | More Blogs

Ricki Sheridan traveled a long way to seek refuge at Wolf Den's Lodge high in the mountains after a devastating betrayal. Heartbroken, she signed up for a survivalist backpacking trip to live off the land and forget.

An injury on the first day puts her in the capable hands of the handsome trail boss, Kory Littleton. The attraction is instant, mutual, and terrifying. She trusted her emotions once and vowed never to make the same mistake again.

Kory's heart, trampled and bruised, is unprepared to ever love again, until his unexpected reaction to Ricki reveals some things are worth taking a chance on.

When evil finds its way back into Ricki's world, their fragile bond is tested, forcing them to face their greatest fear: can a wounded heart ever trust anew?

Betrayal. Desire. Revenge. Which one prevails?

Rating: 3.5 of 5 stars 

In Patty Wiseman's That One Moment, she takes the reader on an engaging roller coaster of events and emotions surrounding Ricki Sheridan. Ricki, the book's protagonist, is on a self-imposed survivalist mountain adventure in an attempt to heal from her recent break-up from antagonist, Russ. While there, she meets trail leader, Kory Littleton with whom she immediately has feelings for. In hopes of getting her back - whether she wants it or not, Russ catches up with Ricki on her adventure and a love triangle is created ... And danger ensues! 

At just over 250 pages, the short read quickly got to the point and was fast-moving. It is definitely a contemporary romance novel, and you can tell that the author put her heart and soul into this book. Adding the mystery and suspense elements to this romantic novel gave it depth.   

I think this story is a great read for a quick escape from reality. While I was able to follow the story easily, I think the book could have benefited from some more aggressive editing as there were many formatting inconsistencies. I also wasn't a fan of the short, abrupt chapters that tended to disrupt the flow at times. Additionally, I think some more character development, which may have resulted in a longer book, would have helped create a more realistic story. I believe many of the characters' personalities and actions came off as over-exaggerated because the author didn't provide the reader with enough background information to justify those actions. 

It really wasn't believable to me that Ricki would begin to have feelings for Kory so soon after meeting and just after one kiss. Plus, it seemed a little unprofessional on his part since, in essence, she was his client. However, books take us places we often can't go in real life, so perhaps between the covers of That One Moment, love at first sight can exist! 

Recommendation: If you enjoy reading fast-paced romance with a twist of suspense, pick up a copy of That One Moment, today or enter the giveaway below to win a copy! 

I received a complimentary signed paperback copy of The One Moment from Lone Star Book Blog Tours in exchange for my honest review. 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. 

Until next time ... Read on!

Giveaway below

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Texas Association of Authors
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Patty Wiseman, as well as anyone and better than most, sure knows how to write the three basic ingredients of a page-turning and unforgettable novel: mystery, suspense, and romance. ~Caleb & Linda Pirtle ~ Here Comes a Mystery

"It was pure perfection!" ~Jessa, Amazon Reviewer

"Author Patty Wiseman does a good job of injecting so much action into just the first two pages that I had high expectations for this story. And That One Moment does not disappoint." ~Natasha Jackson for Readers' Favorite

Award Winning Author Patty Wiseman is a native of the Seattle, Washington area and attended The Wesleyan College in Bartlesville Oklahoma. Northeast Texas is home now, along with her husband Ron. She is the president of East Texas Writer’s Association, a Lifetime Member of the Worldwide Who’s Who for Professional Women (and named VIP for 2013), and a member of the Northeast Texas Writer’s Organization, East Texas Writer’s Guild, and Texas Association of Authors.

Connect with Patty: Website | Facebook |
Twitter | Goodreads | Instagram | Pinterest | Google+

Prizes: Two Signed Print Copies of Book, Two eBook Copies 
August 14-23, 2018
(U.S. ONLY)

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