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. 

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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Radical Candor: How to Get What You Want by Saying What You Mean by Kim Scott

Rating: 4 of 5 stars 

Pages: 279 pages
Published: March 2017

Radical Candor was recommended by a colleague for a professional development program in which I was enrolled. I found the book, along with it supplementary podcast of the same name, to be very informational and transformational in the way that women leaders (aka just plain old leaders) can communicate effectively within the corporate workspace. The author is an established leader in her own right having served in high-level positions at Dropbox, Twitter, Google, and Apple. In her work, she posits that radical candor is where relationship and honesty combine thus you can care personally but also challenge directly to effect change and accomplish goals at work. 

Some of my key takeaways from this book were:

• Placing a focus on achieving growth collaboratively, 
• Recognizing that an organization is comprised of people, so it's OK to take things personally, 
• Tolerating bad work is unfair to people who are doing excellent work, 
• Working to praise publicly but criticize privately, 
• Realizing that a team needs both rock stars for stability and super stars for growth, and
• Listening is a key component in developing a good team. 

"A boss's ability to achieve results has a lot more to do with listening and seeking to understand than it does with telling people what to do." -Kim Scott

Recommendation: Overall, I found this book to be well-written and touch on a myriad of points essential to being an effective leader. I enjoyed that it was written by a woman as I could relate to that perspective. The book was a little long and could have benefitted from some tighter editing, but it was a fulfilling read that included many tips that I could and have put to practice professionally. 

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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You're Going to Make It: 50 Morning and Evening Devotions to Unrush Your Mind, Uncomplicate Your Heart, and Experience Healing Today

Rating: 4 of 5 stars 

Pages: 224 pages
Published: March 2023

I was gifted a copy of You're Going to Make It: 50 Morning and Evening Devotions to Unrush Your Mind, Uncomplicate Your Heart, and Experience Healing Today by the Proverbs 31 Ministry because I volunteer on their social media team. This book written by Lysa TerKeurst, who is a strong Christian, a prolific writer, and one of my favorite authors, was a delight to consume over the course of 50 mornings and 50 evenings. 

The cadence of the readings gave me peace throughout my busy spring season days, calm in the evenings, and often reminded me of what's truly important. I did find a lot of the content repetitive; however, I think sometimes we need to hear things often and at different times to effect us in a substantial way. I enjoy the way that TerKeurst writes as though we are old friends sitting across from each other sharing our vulnerabilities and burdens. The accompanying free online Bible study was also a benefit that enhanced my reading of this book. 

Recommendation: There's not a lot to say here. I think the hefty title provides an accurate description of what you're getting. The physical book is absolutely stunning, and the message should resonate on some level with any reader. While Proverbs 31 Ministry's target audience is women, I think any Christian could benefit from the nuggets of truth shared in this book's easily digestible format. 

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 Most Likely Club by Elyssa Friedland

Rating: 4 of 5 stars 

Pages: 368 pages
Published: September 2022

When you're reading a book that's so good, you don't notice the milestone high school reunion at the center of the plot references the same year you graduated. That was me reading The Most Likely Club by Elyssa Friedland and, why yes, that is my high school graduation cap tassel in the bookstagrammable photo on this post. This is a story about four friends who were all voted a superlative their senior year in 1997 and when they revisit each other and the school 25 years later, they realized they have missed the mark. Together, they vow to capture what was once predicted for them all those years ago. (Oh my gosh ... all 25 years ago!)

Melissa Levin (Most Likely to Win the White House), Priya Chowdhury (Most Likely to Cure Cancer), Tara Taylor (Most Likely to Open a Michelin-Starred Restaurant), and Suki Hammer (Most Likely to Join the Forbes 400) in their early 40s realize adulthood is often not all it's cracked up to be. Each woman struggling with her own personal and professional challenges attempt to change the course of her life with the help of her friend group. This book is what I call realistic fiction. It's a totally made up story of situations, circumstances, and the resulting emotions that come from those events. Being exactly the same age as the characters I found the story totally relatable. However, I think someone older can appreciate the lessons learns and someone younger could possibly heed the warnings. Life is not about labels but rather living in and loving your true self, unapologetically. 

Recommendation: This was a good read that tackled some serious issues us middle-agers face (Oh my gosh ... I'm middle aged!) in an easily digestible way. There were equal parts of introspection as well as comedy. I enjoyed the book and highly recommend. However, I do not recommend the labels even though I may or may not have been Most Likely to Write an Award-Winning Book ... Does a middle-of-the-road blog count? 

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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Fighting Words: 100 Days of Speaking Truth into the Darkness by Ellie Holcomb

Rating: 5 of 5 stars 

Pages: 248 pages
Published: October 2021

Fighting Words: 100 Days of Speaking Truth into Darkness by Ellie Holcomb is the latest study book I completed with Proverbs 31 Ministries Online Bible Studies group. This book provided 100 days of effective verses from the Bible with commentary from Ellie Holcomb that served as a bite-sized, daily devotional. 

While the content each day was a quick read, it did require some reflection on how the greater message could be applied to one’s life. In addition to being an author, Holcomb is also a songwriter, and she included some of the lyrics to her songs in the book. I though this added value for people who enjoy music and are auditory learners. Holcomb did note early on in her book that she would be including the information about her songs but didn’t want to come across as trying to push album sales. I certainly did not get that feeling by reading her book as the tactic was not overdone. 

As with most books I read via the free P31 OBS program, I gained so much more by having a community of women who were learning alongside me. Being part of the Facebook group added another layer of depth for this study. 

Recommendation: As always, Proverbs 31 picks powerful, life-changing books, and Fighting Words did not disappoint. Whether you read this book in 100 consecutive days or pick it up as time allows, you will be changed. Go snag your copy of this Bible-based today! 

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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Take My Hand by Dolen Perkins-Valdez

Rating: 5 of 5 stars 

Pages: 359 pages
Published: April 2022

In all seriousness, I needed someone to take my hand, give me a hug, and tell me everything was going to be OK after reading Take My Hand by Dolen Perkins-Valdez. This book was an emotionally-wrenching read for me. Inspired by actual events pre-Roe v. Wade, fictional character Civil Townsend is fresh out of nursing school with a job at a family clinic to help women with birth control and family planning. She is assigned to help two young girls (11 and 13), and Civil soon learns that the federally-funded clinic and the head nurse who leads it don’t have the community’s best interests at heart. 

This novel is intriguing, engaging, and riveting. It includes all of the relevant literary devices, but the most painful part of the book is that it is based in fact of events that happened to real people. And sadly, with the current state of women’s health and reproductive rights, we are doomed to repeat a variation of this embarrassing part of U.S. history. 

Recommendation: I strongly recommend this novel. It’s one of the best works of historical fiction I’ve read in a long time. Read this story and then research the actual facts after you’ve done so. 

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 Four Winds by Kristin Hannah

Rating: 5 of 5 stars 

Pages: 464 pages
Published: February 2021

The Four Winds by Kristin Hannah won Book of the Month’s book of the year for 2021, and I totally understand why. Unlike, The Love of my Life, this cover did not draw me in. Additionally, the synopsis did not seem like something I would enjoy reading, even though I do enjoy historical fiction. However, as I have learned first impressions can be deceiving. This book is currently one of my top 3 reads of 2022, and I’m so glad I selected it as my free book as part of Book of the Month’s BFF program. 

The story is set in the 1930s during the Great Depression in Texas and centers around Elsa, who at a young age got herself “into some trouble, in the family way.” Ultimately, she finds herself in a loveless marriage with two children and in-laws that have become her only family after her blood relatives disowned her. After suffering through the Dust Bowl, Elsa’s husband abandons his family. Elsa tries to maintain for a time but realizes she must attempt to travel west to the land of milk and honey to make a better life for her family. The remaining two-thirds of the book are about her survival as a single woman on the road to attain the American Dream by traveling west. 

This is the first book I’ve read by Hannah. Her writing is wonderful. She definitely has a gift for describing scenes in such a way that you feel as though you’re right there in that time period and in that emotion. If you read to escape your current reality, Hannah offers you that escape. The story is exceptional, and the characters are well developed and stayed with me long after I read the final page. 

Recommendation: The Four Winds is a must read for anyone, but especially for lovers of historical fiction. I highly recommend 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 Neighbor's Secret by Alison L. Heller

Rating: 3 of 5 stars 

Pages: 336 pages
Published: October 2021

The Neighbor’s Secret by L. Alison Heller was another Book of the Month Club selection for me. I enjoy a book filled with mystery and suspense, and the synopsis indicated that I would get this. The plot of the book is a group of neighborhood mothers who get together for book club each month … suspense + book club … Sign. Me. Up! Someone ends up dead, and the bulk of the book provides information leading the reader to the victim and murderer. While the center of the book is primarily about the murder, the book itself features a cast of characters, none of whom I would say are primary, but they all work together to create suspicion around local vandalism that is occurring in the neighborhood, an old mystery about what happened to an older neighbor’s husband and estranged daughter and a new resident mom and her son that seems a bit socially awkward in addition to the murder case at hand. All of these red herrings take the reader on several twists and turns before reaching the conclusion of the mystery at the end of the novel. 

I enjoyed this book. It was a fast read, and although some of the themes in the book were heavy, they were handled in such a way that didn’t emotionally burden the reader. Many reviews compare this book to Liane Moriarty’s Big Little Lies, and I can certainly see where they get that. It’s a mystery that is lightened through quirky characters and periodic comedic relief. Heller did a great job weaving all the characters and subplots together to create a well-rounded mystery that keeps the reader on the hook without being too far-fetched to solve. 

Recommendation: I found this book to be entertaining and engaging. I think it would be a fun read over spring break or maybe even a summer vacation. Everything is tied up nicely in the end, leaving the reader feeling satisfied. 

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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In Every Mirror She's Black by Lola Akinmade Åkerström

Rating: 3 of 5 stars 

Pages: 416 pages
Published: September 2021

I had such high hopes for In Every Mirror She's Black by Lola Akinmade Åkerström. I really wanted to like it. A story about three Black women living in Sweden all connected by one wealthy, white Swedish man. Kemi, a successful marketing executive, Brittany a beautiful former model now flight attendant, and Muna a poor refugee whose entire family was killed in her home country. 

The book starts off strong with detailed character development. Even the characters you love to hate (read: Brittany) are emotional-provoking and memorable. The book as a decent pace. I think it was a little slow in parts but not anything that prohibited me from finishing the book. However, the ending was very abrupt, and while I don't have to have a happy ending, I'd like to at least have one. It almost seemed as though the author didn't know where to go or how to end the novel. 

Recommendation: This book left me wanting more. I think the author is talented, and I think I would try another book of hers, but this wasn't the one for me. If someone makes it a movie, maybe that will be more compelling. 

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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In a Holidaze by Christina Lauren

Rating: 4 of 5 stars 

Pages: 307 pages
Published: October 2020

In a Holidaze by co-authors and friends Christina Hobbs and Lauren Billings who use the pen name Christina Lauren is somewhat of a Goundhog Day romantic comedy in book form. In this Christmas-themed novel [that I received in January of 2021 (thanks, Covid) but held off reading until December 2021], the protagonist, Maelyn Jones, is spending her last Christmas at her family friends' cabin in Utah. Maelyn is having a rough go in her personal and professional life, and she hopes to relive some of the magic she's experienced with her family and friends who have become family. But everything falls apart when she learns that the friends who own the cabin are going to sell it. Throwing her into despair, Maelyn wishes for happiness which sets her into somewhat of a time loop where she continually wakes up on the same day. 

This is a fun, lighthearted book. Most readers and movie-watchers can probably anticipate where the plot will end up. But this is the kind of movie you need this time of year. Something fun, something lighthearted, and being published in 2020, something hopeful which we all could use a little hope nowadays. The story is touching and funny, and if I'm being honest, it is cheesy in some parts. But overall, it's a good read. 

Recommendation: I enjoyed reading this book leading up to the Christmas holiday, and I think you will too. The average reader could probably devour it in just a few days. 

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 Sister, the Serial Killer by Oyinkan Braithwaite

Rating: 3.5 of 5 stars 

Pages: 226 pages
Published: July 2019

Can you say dark and twisty? That about sums up my thoughts of My Sister, the Serial Killer by Oyinkan Braithwaite. It was the second buddy read with my partner, and oh emm gee! Nigerian sisters Korede and Ayoola are vastly different. Ayoola is younger, trendier, prettier, and luckier in love. Also, she kills her boyfriends, and her older, more logical sister, Korede, literally helps her clean up the mess. Korede also has a steady and stable career at the local hospital where she has a secret crush on a handsome doctor, Tade. However, when he meets the younger and more beautiful Ayoola, he falls quickly for her, igniting Korede’s fears of Tade’s possible early demise. 

The title of this book is intriguing. The staccato-like chapters make for a fast read. The passages are descriptive. And the overall plot seems predictable; however, I would argue that there are some deeper issues going on between Korede, Ayoola, and their early-departed father as well. This book has the perfect combination of mystery, intrigue, comedy, and is psychologically thrilling. I think any reader could finish it in a day or two. I enjoyed the story, but I was not a fan of the ending. 

Recommendation: This is a good book. I would recommend it. Was it the best thing I’ve read in 2021? No, but certainly not the worst either. If you’re looking for a novel to help bump your reading challenge number, this one is a good selection. 

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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Kindred by Octavia E. Butler

Rating: 5 of 5 stars 

Pages: 287 pages
Published: June 1979

So, I read Kindred by Octavia E. Butler with my new beau who wanted to connect with me through one of my favorite pastimes … reading. 😍 This historical, science fiction novel - the first of its type written by a Black woman - is about a young woman, Dana, who in present day, is a married 26-year old in the year 1976. However, she unexplainably and involuntarily travels back to the antebellum south via a Quantum Leap-esque time-warp to oversee a young white boy who is connected to her, and then just as mysteriously travels back to present-day. She never knows when it’s going to happen or how long she will remain in either time period. 

Because of the topical nature of the book there were many passages that were difficult to read and envision. As with most stories like this, there were extreme acts of evil but also fleeting moments of compassion. The insecurity the protagonist felt in vacillating between the two worlds was easily imagined by the reader and also gave an idea of how enslaved people may have felt when being forced to interact with cruel and spontaneously hateful slave owners. 

This is an interesting take on historical fiction with an unexpected science fiction twist. It’s creative, well-written and should be read. Science fiction is not my genre of choice, but Kindred is one of my favorite books.  

Recommendation: I recommend this book to anyone. It’s a fast and heart-wrenching read. I think mature teenagers and adults alike can appreciate this writing. Let us continue to learn about history in a myriad of ways lest we repeat it, OK? 

Trigger warnings: descriptive physical violence, rape

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 Dream of You by Jo Saxton

Rating: 5 of 5 stars 

Pages: 240 pages
Published: January 2018

I first met professional author and speaker, Jo Saxton, at a women’s conference hosted by a local church. When my favorite online ministry, Proverbs 31 decided to facilitate an online Bible study in the fall based on Saxton’s book, The Dream of You: Let Go of Broken Identities and Live the Life You Were Made For, I hurriedly registered to participate. 

In this short book, Saxton has offered concise yet powerful information on how to see yourself differently, specifically focusing on how God sees you. Each chapter begins with a thoughtful, heartfelt letter to the reader from Saxton and is then followed with practical applications based on Biblical principles. The non-fiction book is somewhat autobiographical in that Saxton bears her soul by sharing some of her most vulnerable moments with the audience. Additionally, the piece is targeted toward Christian women; however, as with most motivational literature, anyone can benefit from the overarching themes and message. 

Saxton’s writing style is educational and simultaneously conversational. Many of the ideas she presents are done in such a way that any reader can relate and understand. Having heard her speak and following her on Instagram, I would say she has a bubbly personality and that definitely comes through in her writing. 

Recommendation: Overall, I would say that Saxton has a way with words and is a Biblical scholar. I would recommend this book to any of my friends seeking to rid themselves of negative self-talk and improve on self-perspective and reflection. This book is 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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Get Out of Your Head by Jennie Allen

Rating: 4 of 5 stars

Pages: 256 pages
Published: January 2020

Earlier this year, I participated in another Proverbs 31 Online Bible Study centered on my fellow Texan's book, Get Out of Your Head: Stopping the Spiral of Toxic Thoughts by Jennie Allen. I am active in this Proverbs 31 Ministry and you can visit any of the previous study books I've reviewed by conducting a simple search for "Proverbs 31" on my website. As someone who can be overly analytical and held captive by my anxious thoughts, I was very interested in the premise of this book. Allen posits that a person has an average of 9,000 to 60,000 thoughts per day and those can often be negative. She opens her book explaining that "the greatest spiritual battle for our generation is being fought between our ears." Her book is a form of spiritual self-help on how to take those negative thoughts captive so that one doesn't suffer from paralysis by analysis. 

Her writing style is contemporary and light. She shares a lot of examples, including personal experiences. Because I studies with the Proverbs 31 Ministry, I had access to her teaching videos. While these videos supplemented the book, I found them quite challenging because of Allen's voice (sorry!). But I did very much appreciate the nuggets of wisdom she shared throughout the book. Some of my favorite quotes are listed below. 

"...yet we have allowed our minds to have outright meltdowns with zero corrections (page 38)."

"Tell me what you're thinking ... and I'll tell you who you are (page 43)." 

"We are made to experience life and peace as we begin to think less about oursevles and more about our Creator and about others (page 56)." 

"In the stillness and quiet, not only do we connect with God but we are also able to more clearly identify what is wrong. Recognizing our spirals and naming them is the first step in interrupting them (page 70)." 

"Father, help me see things not as they seem to me but as they truly are (page 81)."

"Loneliness can make us thing that everything is a threat, even if there is no real threat to be found (page 92)."

"When you're looking for intimate friendships, you've got to start with emotionally intelligent friends (page 99)." 

"But our tool for defeating 'what if' is, found in two words: 'Because God (page 109).'" 

The Bible tells us that we are not to conform to the ways of the world but rather be transformed by the renewing of our minds (Romans 12:2). Or more simply put: Quit your stinkin' thinkin'! This is a perpetual battle which requires the constant equipping and preparing of one's mind, and my personal belief is that I can overcome the negative thoughts through the reading of God's Word and improving my personal relationship with Him. 

Recommendation: I think some books resonate with some people more than others. This book definitely resonated with me. Allen's down-to-earth approach backed by scientific facts and Scripture offered a well-rounded thesis on a very important and prevalent issue that many people face daily. This is a relatively short read, and I would definitely recommend giving it a shot. 

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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Flooded by Nicki Koziarz

Rating: 4 of 5 stars

Pages: 208 pages
Published: March 2021

This past spring, I participated in another Proverbs 31 Online Bible Study with Nicki Koziarz's latest book, Flooded: The 5 Best Decisions to Make When Life is Hard and Doubt is Rising, at the forefront. (If you're interested in previous study books I've reviewed, just do a simple search for "Proverbs 31" on my website.) I previously read an earlier book authored by Koziarz, 5 Habits of a Woman Who Doesn't Quit, and it was very powerful. Likewise, Flooded did not disappoint. 

As the title indicates, the Flooded book offers five decisions when life is tough. The decisions that Koziarz has crafted come from her intense study of the Biblical Old Testament figure, Noah, and his calling by God to build an ark. Themes in this book include persistence, trust, and hope.  

The thing I like most about Koziarz's teachings and writings is the practical way in which she applies, the sometimes, complex Biblical teachings. As an author and teacher, Koziarz is talented, and as a person she is truly gifted. In her latest book, she experienced many crises while writing it including the death of not one, but two, family members. Couple that with COVID and the current state of affairs in the United States while she was writing this, she is truly blessed to have delivered such a comprehensive and cohesive teaching book. 

As with all books, I think they meet you where you are. And not all books are for every person at every moment. I don't know that I read this book at the right time in life. That is not to take away anything from the author, but more from me, as I might not have been prepared to receive all it had to offer at this point in my life. However, it is a timeless book that I am thankful to keep on my bookshelf for when it might speak more strongly to me. 

Recommendation: If you are going through a difficult time, this book is a treasure and one that can be referenced again and again. I strongly recommend this book as well as the Proverbs 31 Ministry. It is currently available through the ministry as well as Target department stores.  

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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Matchless: The Life and Love of Jesus

Rating: 5 of 5 stars 

Matchless: The Life and Love of Jesus is the second book I've engaged with by Angie Smith. The reason I say engaged is because the book is written and organized in such a way to facilitate either a group or individual Bible study. The first book, Seamless, was compiled in similar fashion. Matchless focuses on the birth, ministry, crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ. 

In her customary way, Smith does a great job explaining and highlighting parts of the Savior's life and how Christians can apply the lessons presented to their individual lives. She backs her statements with Biblical scripture. Smith also uses humor to help make her message relatable. After completing the book, I noted that many people did not appreciate this (especially her use of the metaphorical Janet); however, I find that type of dry humor effective. I may have been able to appreciate it more because I participated in this study along with Lifeway ministries and had access to Smith's videos where her personality really shines through. Whether the humor resonates with the reader or not, the message is still true and powerful. 

I found this book easy to read and follow. I am glad I had access to the videos as they enhanced my learning. Similar to the Seamless book, I am sure I will use Matchless as a reference and go back to it again and again. 

Recommendation: If you know Jesus or are curious about His life, this is a good book to learn (and learn more) about Him. 

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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Goodnight Beautiful by Aimee Malloy

Rating: 4.5 of 5 stars

Pages: 293 pages
Published: October 2020

Goodnight Beautiful by Aimee Malloy was a BOTM selection that I did not purchase, but rather borrowed, from my local library. The story is about newlyweds Sam and Annie who move from New York City to a more suburban area of New York to start their new life together. Sam is an attractive, well-known therapist who sees clients in his downstairs office. Unfortunately, his sessions can be heard via an upstairs vent. Sam also, like many married couples, has some secrets of his own. These all collide and Sam goes missing. 

Oh my word, this was an excellent, twisty read! Tangled with plot lines from Stephen King's Misery, the story is fast-moving and reaches a pretty tidy ending. The thing I liked most about this book is it challenged the reader to question his/her/them preconceived ideas about gender dialect and behavior. 

I don't want to share anymore so that I don't give away any of the juicy plot twists and turns. 

Recommendation: Just go snag a copy for yourself. It's a fun way to spend a few days losing yourself in a story.  

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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Pretty Little Wife by Darby Kane

Rating: 4 of 5 stars
Pages: 416 pages
Published: December 2020

Pretty Little Wife by Darby Kane (who also writes romance as HelenKay Dimon) was a fast-paced mystery thriller about a young wife who plans the perfect murder of her morally-questionable husband only to find that his supposedly-dead body has gone missing and thrown her plans into complete disarray. 

The story centers around Lila and her husband, Aaron. He commits some pretty horrible acts that triggers his pretty little wife's past and causes her to take dire actions in an attempt to stop him. The only problem is the set-up for her husband's death does not go as planned, and she, of course, becomes the prime suspect target in the lead detective's (Ginny's) eyes. 

I enjoyed the book. It had all the elements of a suspenseful plot. The chapters were really short, some only a page or two long, which for some reason gives books a faster-tone for me. I have noticed this a lot with mystery novels. I think it's intentional to create tension as you turn (or click in ebooks) the pages faster. There was definitely some red herrings in the novel to throw the reader off, but I found it to be somewhat predictable about two-thirds of the way in. The ending introduced at least one character quite randomly, and I'm not sure if that was added after the original manuscript was written. I don't know. It just didn't seem fully thought out to me. Additionally, the ending was wrapped up nicely and quickly, which I found to be a bit of a flaw in such a complex plot. 

Truly, the best parts of the book are when we, as the readers, learn about Lila's backstory as well as the backstory of some of the secondary characters. It gave them depth and made the story more compelling. I do have to say, the strong character of Ginny resonated with me most. This is another excellent selection from Book of the Month, and I'm thankful for the opportunity to have read it upon its release. 

Recommendation: A fun, fast-paced mystery thriller for adult readers, I give this one four stars and offer it as recommended reading for you or your book club discussion. Trigger warnings: violence, sexual abuse

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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Invisible Girl by Lisa Jewell

Rating: 4.5 of 5 stars
Pages: 368 pages
Published: October 2020

My last October read for this year was Invisible Girl by Lisa Jewell. Although a prolific author, this was my first Jewell read, and it did not disappoint. The story is told from three perspectives - Owen, a bit of a socially awkward teacher, his neighbor, Cate, a stay-at-home mom who might be letting her imagination get the best of her and Saffyre, a young girl who mysteriously disappears. 

The bulk of the book takes us back and forth in time with each of these main characters giving us a glimpse into their world to solve the mystery of the missing teenager. The book flowed at a good pace and provided enough clues along the way to keep the reader intrigued and guessing. There was good character development. I think Saffyre was probably my favorite character. There was some darkness to her that made me, as the reader, sad but there was also an element of hope. The book also broached some difficult topics like molestation and violence against women. I would be mindful of those triggers should you choose to pick up this book. 

Overall, this was a thrilling read with a satisfying ending. I did rather enjoy the little twist at the end that left me thinking for days after. I would definitely read another book by this author. 

Recommendation: If you're looking for a twisty mystery thriller, you might consider putting Invisible Girl on your to-be-read list! Thank you to the Fort Worth Library for this digital loan. 

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.

Read More