Book Review: The Correspondent

“Imagine, the letters one has sent out into the world, the letters received back in turn, are like the pieces of a magnificent puzzle. . . . Isn’t there something wonderful in that, to think that a story of one’s life is preserved in some way, that this very letter may one day mean something, even if it is a very small thing, to someone?”

Filled with knowledge that only comes from a life fully lived, The Correspondent is a gem of a novel about the power of finding solace in literature and connection with people we might never meet in person. It is about the hubris of youth and the wisdom of old age, and the mistakes and acts of kindness that occur during a lifetime.

Sybil Van Antwerp has throughout her life used letters to make sense of the world and her place in it. Most mornings, around half past ten, Sybil sits down to write letters—to her brother, to her best friend, to the president of the university who will not allow her to audit a class she desperately wants to take, to Joan Didion and Larry McMurtry to tell them what she thinks of their latest books, and to one person to whom she writes often yet never sends the letter.

Sybil expects her world to go on as it always has—a mother, grandmother, wife, divorcee, distinguished lawyer, she has lived a very full life. But when letters from someone in her past force her to examine one of the most painful periods of her life, she realizes that the letter she has been writing over the years needs to be read and that she cannot move forward until she finds it in her heart to offer forgiveness.

Sybil Van Antwerp’s life of letters might be “a very small thing,” but she also might be one of the most memorable characters you will ever read. (Synopsis courtesy of Amazon.)

Becky Gulc:

I noticed that this novel was heavily featured on many 'Best of 2025' lists so was keen to read this. I actually listened to the audio book of this one, part of a new year mission to listen to more books as well as read more! 

I loved this book and it was so cleverly crafted to slowly allow us to get to know Sybil through her letter writing. 

The book felt unique and whilst it covers loneliness and grief, it's also full of hope and connection in places you wouldn't expect. I wouldn't  say Sybil radiates warmth, but as I came to understand her I warmed to her nonetheless, and there was a lovely arc to her story. I would definitely recommend this and thoroughly enjoyed the audiobook version with a range of actors playing the different parts who were all great.

Melissa Amster:

I had been interested in reading The Correspondent, as I heard so many great reviews. It really lived up to all the hype. I am so glad I finally got a chance to read it and now I can't stop thinking about and recommending it! 

It's such a beautifully told story, written all through letters and emails. We get to know Sybil and some other significant people in her life this way. There are even some aspects that will keep readers guessing for a while. Although there are some sad parts, there are also a lot of hopeful and uplifting parts to balance things nicely. This story made me miss my pen pal days. Even though Sybil and I are many years apart, she was a relatable and sympathetic character.

The younger boy Sybil was corresponding with (Henry or Harry, I can't remember now) reminded me of Sheldon Cooper a bit, but probably because I am watching Young Sheldon now. I enjoyed Sybil's correspondence and connection with him, as well as her correspondence with the customer service representative. All the supporting characters were great though, even the ones who are set up to be unlikable initially.

I appreciate that the story took place in Maryland and that University of Maryland was mentioned a bunch of times.

There was one part I found slightly confusing, but don't want to say much as to not give anything away. It's something mathematical that didn't quite make sense when more of the situation was revealed.

This novel is perfect for fans of The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society. It also has a Fredrik Backman feel. It even reminded me of Up the Down Staircase by Bel Kaufman, which was written in letters and memos way back before email existed.

I don't have casting in mind for this one, but it would be fun to see what Hollywood could come up with as it would be a good movie if done right.

(Trigger warnings at the bottom of this post.)

Also by Virginia Evans: Within the Walled City

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TW: Death of child. Strained relationships. Loss of vision. Stalking. Miscarriages and infertility (mentioned briefly).

Double Feature Spotlight and Giveaway!

We're excited to share two new books that released last month. They both sound great and we've been hearing a lot of good buzz about them. Thanks to BookSparks, we have TWO sets of print copies to give away!

The Star Society by Gabriella Saab

By 1946, actress Ada Worthington-Fox has reinvented herself as Hollywood’s newest rising star, far from war-torn Arnhem and her years in the Dutch resistance. But her past resurfaces when Ingrid, the sister she believed dead, appears on her doorstep.

Now a private investigator in Washington, Ingrid has been sent to root out Communist influence in Hollywood—starting with Ada. Torn between duty and love, Ingrid hides her true mission as she shields her sister from scandal and danger, desperate to learn where Ada’s loyalties lie.

Meanwhile, Ada pursues her own secret goal: finding the Gestapo agent who destroyed her hometown. But digging into her past could expose everything she’s fought to bury.

As the sisters’ quests collide, they uncover links between Nazi war crimes and America’s Red Scare—and a shared secret that could destroy them both.

A gripping tale of sisterhood, secrets, and survival that spans the shadows of wartime Europe to the glittering lights of postwar Hollywood.

"This novel has everything--secrets and intrigue, danger and high stakes, heartbreak and love, all set against a fascinating backdrop of post-war America. I loved it!"
- Louise Fein, international bestselling author

Gabriella Saab is an acclaimed author of historical fiction. Her first two novels, The Last Checkmate and Daughters of Victory, have been published in multiple languages and various countries. She graduated from Mississippi State University with a bachelor of business administration in marketing and lives in her hometown in Alabama. 

Visit Gabriella online:
Website * Facebook * Instagram

The Shark House by Sara Ackerman

When a string of rare shark attacks shatters the calm of the Kohala Coast, marine biologist Minnow Gray is called home to Hawai‘i to investigate. Revered for her uncanny connection to sharks, she may be the island’s only hope for uncovering why the predators have turned violent—and whether the same great white that once haunted these waters has returned.

But for Minnow, the hunt is personal. Years ago, she witnessed a white shark take her father’s life, a trauma she’s never escaped. Now, as the investigation forces her to confront buried memories, the past and present begin to collide, revealing secrets as deep and dangerous as the ocean itself.

Set in 1998 against Hawai‘i’s lush coasts and dark currents, The Shark House is a mesmerizing tale of loss, resilience, and the fragile line between human and nature—between fear and fascination.

Dive in—if you dare.

"This atmospheric novel is filled with scandal and a little romance. Dig deep into this powerful novel which kept me engrossed from start to finish." 
- Christine (Amazon)

Sara Ackerman is the Hawaii born, bestselling author of The Codebreaker's Secret, Radar Girls, Red Sky Over Hawaii, The Lieutenant’s Nurse, and Island of Sweet Pies and Soldiers.

Sara's books have been labeled “unforgettable” by Apple Books, “empowering & deliciously visceral” by Book Riot, and New York Times bestselling authors Kate Quinn and Madeline Martin have praised Sara’s novels as “fresh and delightful” and “brilliantly written.” Amazon chose Radar Girls as a best book of the month, and ALA Booklist gave The Codebreaker’s Secret a starred review.

Visit Sara online:
Website * Facebook * Instagram

How to win: Use KingSumo to enter the giveaway. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us. If you have trouble using KingSumo on our blog, enter the giveaway here.

Giveaway ends February 24th at midnight EST.

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Sara and Melissa Talk About...Moms' Mental Load

We've been running a column series to get more personal with our readers. We are now starting our seventh year!

This month, we are talking about the mental load that mothers carry, inspired by an article from USA Today. Since we are both moms, we have a lot to say on this topic. If this doesn't apply to you, perhaps you know someone to pass it along to. We'd love to hear your thoughts though. Feel free to share in the comments! 

We're always open to topic suggestions, so please don't hesitate to share those in the comments. We'd also love to know if you can relate to anything we've said or hear your own thoughts on the topic. So don't be shy. 😊 We look forward to getting to know you as much as we're letting you get to know us. You can find our previous columns here, in case you missed them.

Melissa Amster:

This past weekend, I took my daughter to see a production of the musical Working. One of the songs is "Just a Housewife." I used to listen to the cast recording all the time when I was younger and didn't think much of this song. Listening to it as an adult is actually really emotional. I get teary-eyed just thinking about it! The woman is singing about all the stuff she does around the house along with raising children, and how she still feels devalued for it. 

I am a work-at-home mom, but because I have a more flexible job, I end up doing a lot of the chores and errands as a result. Sometimes, I'm just so unmotivated to do these things that I end up trying to delegate the chores and errands or finding a way to bundle it up into one trip so I don't have to go out as much. Although my kids are teenagers now and only two are still at home the majority of the time, I'm usually the one they come to when they need stuff. My younger son is capable of cooking for himself and yet he was trying to get me to make him lunch last week when I was dealing with a cold and in the middle of getting some work done. My daughter can't drive yet, so I'm expected to play chauffeur. I also have to manage her schedule as she always has a lot going on.

Thankfully, my husband does help with certain things, so I'm not bearing the entire mental load. I definitely appreciate that! However, he gets annoyed because I can't just drop everything and go on a mini-vacation during the school year. 

I wanted to share some book recommendations related to this topic:

1. Maybe Next Time by Cesca Major (reviewed here). It's all about a working mother who is juggling way too much. 

2. Moms Love Boy Bands by Jenifer Goldin (reviewing in March, but featured on my Bookstagram). It addresses this topic in a couple of ways. 

3. The Life Makeover Club by Juliet Madison (reviewed here). It features a mom of young children who is overwhelmed.

4. Be Your Own Bestie by Misha Brown. This book just came out and I am listening to it (rare audiobook exception for me). Right away, he's talking about a mom carrying the mental load for her family. He has tips for women (and men) in all phases of life. Part of the focus is setting boundaries.

I also want to recommend the 2025 Christmas movie Oh. What. Fun. as it speaks volumes about how much moms do and how little it is noticed. I actually cried at one part of this movie too.

Something funny before I turn this over to Sara. A friend sent me this little video today and it was just so fitting with our topic!

Sara Steven:

My husband gave me the nickname “Mama Rock” several years ago when I was a stay-at-home parent. He said it was because I could do it all. 

I’d seen the article mentioned above and it reminded me of my old moniker; my husband hasn’t called me Mama Rock in a very long time, and my kids would have no clue about the nickname, either, but I imagine a lot of us mothers can identify with that. Feeling like there’s nothing we can’t (or won’t) do.    

I’ve seen many sides of the mom coin. The stay-at-home parent. The part-time working parent, and the full-time working parent. And none of it, none of it is easy. I constantly feel like I’m juggling all sorts of plates in the air, trying desperately to keep them spinning on thin-bare sticks while fighting to find some space for myself, too. I foolishly figured that the older my children would get, the easier it would get, but that hasn’t been the case. I’m always thinking and planning three steps ahead with a young adult and a teenager. 

Much like the article addresses, I facilitate a lot around my household. I’m the appointment maker, the errand runner, the gift planner, the meal planning extraordinaire, the gardener, the cleaning crew, the organizer, the chauffeur, and I’m not complaining. I’m really not. My husband is a great help to me and when I delegate something, he’s willing to take to-do items off my list, but it’s the fact that I’m the one who runs the household and think to do it in the first place. It’s not on his radar, because it never had to be. It was a role I gladly stepped into, but there are times it can feel like it’s a lot. 

When something is missing, I’m the first point of contact. If a food item can’t be located in the fridge, all heads turn to look at Mama Rock. My kids come to me when there’s an injury that needs healed or an item needs fixed. I love how the article addresses high parenting expectations, because I do feel that sometimes, from the generations that had come before me. When it was expected that the mother instinctively would always know what to do and the expectation was that she’d set aside everything in her life for her family, often putting herself last on the priority list. Even now, if a woman even thinks of doing something for herself, she might be deemed as “selfish” or “unmotherly.” Where is the healthy balance?

Right now, I’m trying to teach myself to delegate more with my children. It’s not something they’ve been used to. My husband and I joke about how our kitchen most mornings looks like a scene from the TV show Crime Scene Kitchen. Have you ever heard of it? Pairs of bakers try to decipher what was made in a kitchen, to try to replicate the dish, and for us, we try to figure out what our kids cooked at night after we’ve gone to bed. There are plates and bowls everywhere. Crusty utensils. Dried food and melted cheese. I want the plates and bowls and utensils placed in the dishwasher–and the dried food and melted cheese wiped off and cleaned up. But that means having a sit down with my pair of crime scene kitchen cookers to teach them better kitchen manners. Is it possible? Can it be done? It sounds easy in theory. But reality isn’t always so simple.

Courtesy of IMDb

I appreciated that the article addresses that fathers are starting to feel the pressure too, because my husband did when I went back to work full-time. He juggled a high-stress project at work while also having to deal with household needs that he was used to relying on me to take care of. And with a kid who’s in sports and has orthodontic needs, that included drop off and pick ups and appointments, which thankfully he could swing due to his remote job. But I had to let some other things go, like the tasks I was used to taking care of while I was at home.

Recently, I’ve gone back to working part-time after finally figuring out that it is what works best for our family and for me, and I think my husband has a newfound appreciation for a lot of what I contributed and I also feel that appreciation for him as well. I think what helps us get through the stressful mental load is communication and a lot of humor. A lot of humor.  

What are your thoughts on moms' mental load?

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Book Review: I'm Not the Only Murderer in My Retirement Home

By Sara Steven

Carol is delighted to be leaving her tiny prison cell behind to take her place in a luxury retirement home. She's hoping her past as a serial killer won't come to light so she can make a few friends and find some murder-free hobbies. But it's not long before a fellow resident—who happens to be a former police commissioner—drops dead, and Carol's true identity is leaked—making catching up over daily activities of bingo and baking rather awkward.

Just her luck, Carol soon realizes that the victim wasn't the only former law enforcement officer at Sheldon Oaks—it's filled to the brim with former cops, barristers, and government representatives, her newfound friends included. And everyone thinks Carol's guilt is a no-brainer, but she is ready to prove them dead wrong...without killing anyone, for once. (Synopsis courtesy of Goodreads.)

Carol is such a fun character! I had a blast reading her inner thoughts, particularly because she doesn’t hold back and doesn’t shy away from her impulses. It’s true that she is a former serial killer, but you can’t take the serial killer out of the girl. The difference for her now is acting on her impulses, and after finding her place in a retirement home where she gets to live free, she wouldn’t want to do anything that would jeopardize that freedom.

She also understands the need for friendships, a concept she didn’t experience when she was in prison. So when one of the residents at the retirement home is murdered and all fingers point to her, Carol has a lot to lose–not just her freedom, but her newfound connections. It’s enough to spur on the need to investigate the murder herself, not only to clear her name, but to find peace again. 

Who would know a killer better than a killer? Carol and her friends embark on finding the true culprit, and try not to die themselves. I think one of the things I enjoyed the most is that the characters are not your typical characters–they are older, they are severely flawed, and it made it all that much more exciting and enjoyable. As much as Carol’s friends fear her, they also embrace her, hopeful that it really isn’t her that’s causing all the trouble. 

When Carol has “her moment” and releases the final reveal on whodunit, it was absolutely amazing! And she insisted on having that moment, particularly because no one wants to believe that she’s not the killer. The steps she takes with her friends in order to find the murderer is a lot of fun, too. This is not your typical retirement home, and Carol and her friends prove that there is a lot of life to live, even in your golden years. It was a refreshing perspective!

Thanks to Berkley for the book in exchange for an honest review. Purchase it here!

More by Fergus Craig:
Once Upon a Crime
Murder at Crime Manor

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Spotlight and Giveaway: How to Kill a Guy in Ten Dates

Today we are pleased to feature Shailee Thompson's debut novel, How to Kill a Guy in Ten Dates. If you're a fan of slasher films masked as romantic comedies, this story is sure to be a hit! Even if you're not, it still sounds like a lot of fun. Thanks to Simon & Schuster, we have THREE copies to give away!

When Jamie Prescott and her best friend Laurie attend a speed-dating event, Jamie expects to meet a roster of mediocre men and indulge in some street food afterwards. She doesn’t expect one of her dates to have his throat slit at their table during a blackout. After the lights come back on and there are more bodies on the floor, it becomes clear that dating can be a very dangerous pastime.

Armed with makeshift weapons and Jamie’s extensive knowledge of what NOT to do in a slasher, the remaining speed daters try to find an exit while the killer adds to their body count. As the night progresses and Jamie comes face-to-mask with the murderer, she begins to suspect they are committing the slayings to woo one of the daters and turn them into a real-life Final Girl. But Jamie has other plans, and as she fights for her life, she can’t help but find herself ensconced in a love triangle with two of the other survivors. Will she make it through the bloodshed to find her Happily Ever After? Or does this machete-wielding psychopath have another ending in mind?

"Fresh, funny and criminally addictive. I couldn't put it down!"
– Hannah Grace, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Icebreaker

"I laughed, I cried, I screamed. How to Kill a Guy in Ten Dates is the slasher-rom-com we never knew we needed in our lives."
– L.M. Chilton, author of Swiped

Courtesy of The Bookseller

Shailee Thompson is a writer and educator based in Brisbane, Australia. She’s always had a penchant for women with smart mouths, soft hearts, and strong wills going up against extraordinary odds. How to Kill a Guy in Ten Dates is her debut novel. Visit Shailee at her website and follow her on Instagram. 

How to win: Use KingSumo to enter the giveaway. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us. If you have trouble using KingSumo on our blog, enter the giveaway here.

Giveaway ends February 22nd at midnight EST.

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Book Review: Laws of Love and Logic

By Sara Steven

In the serene town of Portsmouth, Rhode Island, Lily Webb is deeply in love with a charismatic boy, a college-bound quarterback whose spectacular athletic talents are matched only by his fierce devotion. But their dreams of a life together are cut short one night in 1977 when his passionate protectiveness leads to an irrevocable choice—one which tears them apart and leads Lily down a path of heartbreak from which she may never recover.

Lily has already known the sting of loss, beginning with the death of her mother—a tragedy that left deep scars on both her and Jane, her gifted younger sister. Jane seeks escape in the abstract world of mathematics and quantum mechanics; that is, when she can keep the demons that fuel her addictions at bay. As the years pass, Lily buries her twin griefs deep in her heart, finding solace and a new beginning with Marshall Middleton, a renowned ornithologist whose love is as steadfast as the migration patterns he studies. Yet, the shadows of her past linger.

When the boy who was once everything to Lily reemerges, she struggles with questions around that terrible night in high school. Can she reconcile the wild wonderment of her first love with the comfort and safety of her second? Laws of Love and Logic explores love's enduring power and the human spirit's capacity for forgiveness and redemption. (Synopsis courtesy of Goodreads)

Laws of Love and Logic is an epic love story; it is the love of family, and first soulmate connections. It is the love between two sisters who have a tight bond that spans decades, and the deep love a mother has for her children. I enjoyed learning about Lily, and discovering the levels and shades of love that propel her forward in her life, beginning with the foundation her mother has provided her. Lily’s mother is the type of mother I wish I’d had. Someone who wanted her daughters to rely on their minds and hearts to guide them, during a time when it wasn’t traditional or even accepted.

Later, Lily bonds with “the boy,” her first crush. After several chapters, it’s understood that “the boy” is the one who got away, despite Lily’s choices in moving forward and connecting with Marshall, a much safer option. “The boy” reminded me of how Carrie Bradshaw used to refer to “Mr. Big” in Sex and the City; at the time, Mr. Big was such a magnanimous relationship in her life, it made sense to keep him in the shadows while she figured things out. That’s how it is for Lily and her childhood first love. When the event happens in 1977, all hell breaks loose, and it’s hard to know for sure if it’s ultimately for the better, or for the worse.

My favorite love story is the one between Lily and her sister, Jane. Jane is that wild, free-spirited character you only wish you could get to know and get close to, but as can be expected, it comes with major strings attached. Following their relationship throughout the years reminded me of the one I have with my own sister, particularly because our own beginnings were marred a bit with certain tragedies and hardships. That kind of life can really help to form deeper connections, and that is really showcased well between Lily and Jane. One particular moment between them is truly heartbreaking and has stayed with me. 

Laws of Love and Logic is a beautifully written story, dealing with some pretty rough subject matter that makes it even more worth the read. It’s real and honest, not pulling any punches–love can hurt at times, and sometimes the deeper you love, the deeper the pain. It was a definite five-star read!

Thanks to Random House for the book in exchange for an honest review.

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Book Review: Husband of the Year

By Melissa Amster

**This is a sequel to Teacher of the Year (reviewed here). There may be spoilers for that book. Proceed with caution.**

Family isn't only about blood. It's about the people we choose. 

Olan Stone wants nothing more than to spend the rest of his life with kindergarten teacher Marvin Block. And his daughter, Illona, can’t wait to call Marvin her stepfather. They’re bashert—meant to be. However, as the big day approaches, family tensions and unresolved issues put their future together in jeopardy. 

Marvin thought he and Olan had everything all figured out. But he’s realizing that their whirlwind romance may not be the foundation for a lifetime commitment after all. As they struggle through the changes that life is throwing their way, will they be drawn closer together or farther apart? (Synopsis courtesy of Amazon.)

I am so thankful I found out about M.A. Wardell's Teachers in Love series through The Jewish Bookstagram Tour a few years ago, but also I am sad to be done with this series and wish it could keep going. It was great to reunite with Marvin and Olan (from Teacher of the Year) and remember why I adore them so much. And Illona and Gonzo are the icing on the delicious wedding cake. 

Husband of the Year is a sweet (and very, very spicy) comfort read. I was verklempt many times. It was great seeing the couples from the other two books, as well. There was just so much to love about it. Plenty of laugh-out-loud moments, as well as ones of sincerity and emotion. Even though part of the story presented a difficult situation, Marvin and Olan worked though it with love and patience. They also had strong support networks. I kind of had a feeling one part of the story would go a certain way and I was so glad that I was right! 

I enjoyed the moments with Marvin's students, as they were such a sweet group of kids. I also love how everyone was so accepting of him being gay and so supportive of his relationship and upcoming marriage. It reminded me of Schitt's Creek in this way. If only everyone could be like that in real life. While a lot of aspects of this novel felt too good to be true, it was comforting given all the instability going on in the real world. And, of course, all the Jewish joy was a mechaye.

While I would have liked Marvin and Olan to take turns narrating, like in the middle two books of the series where we get both mens' perspectives, it was nice to get to know Olan better through his long emails to Marvin throughout the novel. 

I really, really don't want this series to end, but it ended on a good note and maybe there will be room for a reunion in the future? If you haven't read the Teachers in Love series yet, it's never too late to get started!

I don't cast the books in this series because it's too hard to find the right fit for the main characters, but I'd love to see Carol Kane as Marvin's mom.

Thanks to Forever for the book in exchange for an honest review.

** Intended for mature audiences only. 18+ **

More by M.A. Wardell:
Marshmallow Mountain (with A.J. Truman)
Stirring Spurs
Mistletoe and Mishigas (also from Teachers in Love)

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TW: Alcoholism/substance abuse (from supporting characters but mentioned a lot), death from overdose (mentioned but not detailed).

Lindsey Goldstein's year to remember...plus a book giveaway

 

We're excited to have Lindsey Goldstein at CLC today to talk about her debut novel, Gap Year. It sounds like a clever and unique story, perfect for fans of Amy Poeppel. Thanks to Egret Lake Books, we have one copy to give away, along with a signed bookplate!

Lindsey Goldstein has always loved coming-of-age stories, from A Tree Grows in Brooklyn to many of Judy Blume’s novels. After redefining herself several times, Lindsey wanted to tell a fresh coming-of-age story about someone in her forties  who sees a chance to start over and takes it. In general, she enjoys writing about Gen X characters who find themselves at a crossroads in their lives. She lives in Southern California, and when she’s not writing, she works as a physical therapist and as a chauffeur. Ahem, kidding. She shuttles her kids around.  

Visit Lindsey online:
Website * Instagram * TikTok

Sign up for her newsletter.

Synopsis:
It’s her turn to have the adventure of a lifetime… 

Jane’s life is turned upside down within forty-eight hours: her only child leaves for a year  abroad, her husband abandons her for another woman, and her boss issues her an  ultimatum. She makes a bold, impulsive choice—she’s leaving it all behind for an adult  version of her daughter’s “gap year.”  

Once a hopeful young ecologist, Jane dreams of climbing a volcano and working in the Galapagos—but life got in the way. Now, nothing stands between her and the adventure she abandoned years ago.  
Sleeping in a hostel bunk bed surrounded by people at least twenty years younger, she befriends Laura, a fellow traveler determined to scale the volcano. Together, they doggedly train for the summit. Jane also meets Mark, a charming tour guide whose quick wit and sparkling eyes threaten to derail her identity quest. 

As Jane pushes her physical and emotional limits, she seeks answers to the burning question: “What the hell should I do with the rest of my life?” 

Jane navigates the world of travel to repair her broken heart. 

"Jane's quest to find herself and her place in the world will fit in nicely with relationship fiction collections." - Booklist 

"I couldn't put this book down." - Shayla Dugan, Author

In one sentence, what was the road to publishing like for you?
The road was rocky with many hills and valleys, but ended with a contract and a publication date!

How is Jane similar to or different from you?
Jane is definitely more adventurous than I am. We are similar in that we handle hard times with humor, injecting a little levity into otherwise difficult situations.  But she is so brave to seize the opportunity to pursue her dream in Ecuador, especially to climb a volcano. 

If Gap Year was made into a movie, who would you cast in the lead roles?
My top picks for Jane would be Kathryn Hahn or Rose Byrne. They are both so adept with comedy and poignancy. Pedro Pascal would make a great Mark. And Jude Law would be great as Clark. And Iris Apatow would nail the character of Liza!

Share a favorite Valentine's Day memory with us.
Valentine’s Day has never been a big thing for me. And my husband feels the same way. Our birthdays are the week before, so we always do something special for our birthday and then have a low-key evening in on Valentine’s Day. 

If your life was a TV series, which celebrity would you want to narrate it?
I would love for Cate Blanchett to narrate. I love her as an actress and her voice is calming. 

If we were to visit you right now, what places would you take us to see?
I’d take you to Crystal Cove for a walk on the beach followed by dinner in Laguna Beach. Two of my favorite places. 

Thanks to Lindsey for visiting with us and to Egret Lake for sharing her book with our readers.

How to win: Use KingSumo to enter the giveaway. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us. If you have trouble using KingSumo on our blog, enter the giveaway here.

Giveaway ends February 17th at midnight EST.

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Book Review: One Night on the Island

By Melissa Amster

Spending her thirtieth birthday alone is not what dating columnist Cleo Wilder wanted, but she plans a solo retreat―at the insistence of her boss―in the name of re-energizing herself and adding a new perspective to her column. The remote Irish island she’s booked is a far cry from London, but at least it’s a chance to hunker down in a luxury cabin and indulge in some self-care while she figures out the next steps in her love life and her career.

Mack Sullivan is also looking forward to some time to himself. With his life in Boston deteriorating in ways he can’t bring himself to acknowledge, his soul-searching has brought him to the same Irish island to explore his roots and find some clarity. Unfortunately, a mix-up with the bookings means both have reserved the same one-room hideaway on exactly the same dates.

Instantly at odds, Cleo and Mack don’t know how they’re going to manage until the next weekly ferry arrives. But as the days go by, they no longer seem to mind each other’s company quite as much as they thought they would.

Written with Josie Silver’s signature charm, One Night on the Island explores the meaning of home, the joys of escape, and how the things we think we want are never the things we really need. (Synopsis courtesy of Amazon.)

I somehow missed One Night on the Island when it first released, but I am glad I finally got a chance to check it out! If you are looking for a cozy read while stuck indoors during a snowstorm, you can't go wrong with this one. Perfect for reading under a warm blanket with a cup of hot cocoa!  It's not about a tropical island, like the title leads you to believe. It takes place on a small island in Ireland, and there is a village with wonderful, friendly people right down the road. 

This was a sweet story. I loved the setting and there were great supporting characters in the nearby village. I wasn't sure where things would go over time and was pleasantly surprised. The dialogue and banter flowed nicely and there was a good range of emotions. I loved the concept of self-marriage in the way of just loving yourself first and foremost. 

I had a couple small concerns. One was strange timing at one part, as Mack's kids went to the lake for a week in the middle of autumn during the school year. I don't know of schools that give a fall break in the US and how would it be warm enough to swim in the northeast? Also, something worked out too neatly for one of the characters and it didn't feel as realistic to me. 

Overall, this was a really enjoyable novel and I'm glad I read it. It made me realize that I need to read the rest of Josie's books now. 

(Trigger warnings at the bottom of this post.)

Movie casting suggestions:

Cleo: Mollie Winnard

Mack: Brandon Sklenar

Delta: Charlie Murphy

Dolores: Michelle Fairley

Raff: Ian Beattie

Susie: Britt Robertson

More by Josie Silver:

One Day in December

A Winter in New York

Slow Burn Summer

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TW: Death of parent (off page), parental neglect (off page), divorce

Spotlight and Giveaway: I'm Looking for a Man in Finance

Introduction by Melissa Amster

I will admit that when I first heard about Sabrina Waldorf's debut novel, I'm Looking for a Man in Finance, my interest in it stemmed from my Ghosts crush, Trevor, a Wall Street finance bro who died in 2000. However, it sounds like a fun enemies-to-lovers read and we're excited to celebrate the publication today! Thanks to Alcove Press, we have TWO copies to give away!

Sparks fly when a journalist seeking the most eligible man on Wall Street goes head-to-head with the finance bro determined to get in her way. 

Journalist Hallie Woods has a new assignment: date the hottest guy on Wall Street and document every moment for the magazine she works for. The only problem? Finance bros couldn’t be further from Hallie’s type. 

But as Hallie reluctantly flirts her way through the Financial District, there's one annoyingly handsome 6'5", blue-eyed man who keeps getting in her way. 

James Rossi is a typical finance bro on paper, but a hopeless romantic at heart. After being burned by an ex-girlfriend who used him for his money, he's also fiercely protective of himself and his friends. So when he realizes the new regular at his favorite bar is flirting with his colleagues as fodder for an article, he decides to sabotage her plans. 

Hallie and James clash at happy hour every week. But soon their dislike for each other turns into something unexpected, and Hallie questions whether she wants her personal life spread across the pages of a magazine. 

Hallie might have found her man in finance, but she also has a choice to make: publish the article or risk her career and invest in true love. 

“Balancing playful banter and steamy moments . . . The result is a flirty rom-com.”
—Publishers Weekly

“Heartwarming and fun.”
—Red Carpet Crash

Sabrina Waldorf is a hopeless romantic. After years of looking for her real-life man in finance, she decided to put pen to paper and create her own. When she’s not busy dreaming up new story ideas, she can be found curled up in her apartment with a coffee and a good book. 

How to win: Use KingSumo to enter the giveaway. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us. If you have trouble using KingSumo on our blog, enter the giveaway here.

Giveaway ends February 15th at midnight EST.

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Book Review: The Better Mother

By Jami Denison

Women surrender their bodily autonomy when they become pregnant. From strangers patting their belly without permission, neighbors asking about the cat, in-laws weighing in on daycare decisions, mothers are considered public property and everyone has an opinion. The best-case scenario is nosy baristas commenting on coffee orders. The worst case is women like Adriana Smith, whose doctors ignored her headache until she was braindead, then used her corpse as an incubator until the baby was born months later, premature and desperately ill. No wonder motherhood is prime real estate for fiction, from historical to horror and every genre in between. 

Into this fertile territory, debut author Jennifer van der Kleut has delivered her first thriller, The Better Mother. The mom is question is Savannah Mitchell, a 34-year-old marketing account executive in San Francisco. She was ready to become a mom, but her longtime boyfriend balked at the prospect and left her. Months later, she finds herself pregnant by a casual fling, Matt… and when she gives Matt the news, he announces that he just reconciled with his ex-girlfriend Madison. Instead of being angry at Matt’s infidelity, Madison is excited about the baby and wants to help Savannah in any way she can.

Madison is a perky Stepford wife in green-and-pink plaid and headbands. She criticizes Savannah’s eating and exercise habits, the state of her apartment, and her job, insisting that all she cares about is the health and well-being of “their” baby. At first Savannah is merely annoyed, but when someone breaks into her apartment and important text messages disappear from her phone, she starts to suspect that Madison has more sinister motives in mind. If Madison can prove that she’s the better mother, will Savannah lose her baby to her? 

The Better Mother has the elements that domestic suspense fans love: babies, boyfriends, best friends, and the slow burn in the beginning where the protagonist questions her own reactions.  The twist is in its perspective: ordinarily, this book would be told from the point-of-view of the cheated-on wife/girlfriend, with the pregnant mistress the villain character. Flipping this genre expectation on its head provides a refreshing take.

While the tone was off at times—the first scene is funny, not scary, and later on characters go so far off the deep end that it becomes comical—the book delivers the roller coaster ride that readers want. It’s predictable, but that doesn’t lessen the fun. The only thing that was missing for me was an “a ha” moment for Savannah and a confrontation. 

Sadly, the current political environment toward pregnant women provides ample material for thriller writers like van der Kleut. At times, Madison seemed like a stand-in for big government, wedging itself into a woman’s most personal choices and judging her for them. Unfortunately, domestic suspense writers can continue to get inspiration from government and health policies that treat women like possessions. For women like Adriana Smith, their real-life horror is more terrifying than anything that fiction writers can create.  

Thanks to BookSparks for the book in exchange for an honest review.

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Book Review: This Book Made Me Think of You

By Allyson Bales

Twelve books. Twelve months. One chance to heal her heart…

When Tilly Nightingale receives a call telling her there’s a birthday gift from her husband waiting for her at her local bookshop, it couldn’t come as more of a shock. Partly because she can’t remember the last time she read a book for pleasure. But mainly because Joe died five months ago....

When she goes to pick up the present, Alfie, the bookshop owner with kind eyes, explains the gift—twelve carefully chosen books with handwritten letters from Joe, one for each month, to help her turn the page on her first year without him.

At first Tilly can’t imagine sinking into a fictional world, but Joe’s tender words convince her to try, and something remarkable happens—Tilly becomes immersed in the pages, and a new chapter begins to unfold in her own life. Monthly trips to the bookstore—and heartfelt conversations with Alfie—give Tilly the comfort she craves and the courage to set out on a series of reading-inspired adventures that take her around the world. But as she begins to share her journey with others, her story—like a book—becomes more than her own. (Synopsis courtesy of Amazon.)

“The right book in the right hands of the right person at exactly the right moment can change their life forever.”

What a thoughtful, emotional, and thought-provoking opening line to a story.  I spent last weekend completely immersed in Libby Page’s newest book and to say it was a warm hug that I am still thinking about would be an understatement.  This story touched my heart, and will be one I will think of for some time. I definitely think it should be on your February TBR immediately!

You get to meet Tilly, a lovely woman that just lost her husband and doesn’t really know what to do with that grief.  Her fiance leaves her the best gift at a local bookstore, where you also get to meet Alfie, the bookstore’s owner.

I was immediately invested in Tilly’s character.  I found her to be so relatable and vulnerable.  I really, really connected with her struggles and triumphs and can’t remember the last time I rooted so hard for a character.  Tilly gave me a lot of hope and I know she’ll be a character I will want so many others to meet!  I also really loved the flashback scenes where you get to know her fiancé Joe better.  This really added so much depth to the story and made me really think about my own wife and relationship.

This story reminded me why I am a book lover and why I love indie bookshops so much.  This is more of a predictable read, but one that will make you feel uplifted and inspired.  I loved so many of the characters and love all of the book recommendations that you get with each chapter!

I would also really recommend the audio version of this one. Zadeiah Campbell-Davies narrated the story beautifully and I loved how she brought Tilly to life.

Thanks to Berkley for the book in exchange for an honest review. Purchase it here.

More by Libby Page:
Mornings with Rosemary
The Lifeline
The 24-Hour Café

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Spotlight and Giveaway: Game, Set, Match

Today we are featuring Jennifer Iacopelli's latest sports rom-com, Game, Set, Match, which released this week. Even if you don't know much about tennis, this story is sure to dazzle. Thanks to Lavender PR, we have TWO copies to give away!

All of Penny Harrison’s hard work is finally paying off. At 21 years old, she’s a tennis icon in-the-making, with massive sponsorship deals and legendary status on the horizon, if she can just nail the upcoming Grand Slam in Paris. Until then, there’s no room for mistakes.

When she returns to the prestigious Outer Banks Tennis Club to train, though, she comes face to face with the biggest mistake she ever made: Alex Russell. With piercing blue eyes and irresistible charm, the bad boy tennis star is the only guy who ever broke Penny’s heart.

To keep her head in the game—and her mind off Alex—Penny leans on two of the club’s other rising stars. Jasmine Randazzo and Indiana Gaffney are both balancing exploding careers with their own off-the-court romances, and their drama might be enough to keep Penny distracted. 

But as days tick down to Paris, Penny seems to always find herself across the court from Alex. She knows that winning it all means laser focus…so why can’t Penny stay away from the one guy who ruins everything? (Synopsis courtesy of Amazon.)

Praise for Jennifer's writing:

“I flew through this book. I was rooting for Audrey and the rest of Team USA the whole time—for their health, for their friendship, and of course for their gymnastics. Reading Break the Fall is the closest I’ve ever come to the thrill of competing at the Olympics—and I didn’t even have to do a single push-up to get here.” 
—Leila Sales, author of This Song Will Save Your Life

“Finding Her Edge captures the magic of a second-chance romance and tosses it into the pressure-cooker of world-class ice skating along with an irresistible combination of fake dating, family drama, and a shot at winning a life-changing gold. There is no one better than Jennifer Iacopelli when it comes to providing a realistic glimpse into the lives of elite athletes while crafting a romance chock full of heartbreak and hard work.”  
—Sarah Henning, author of It's All In How You Fall

Credit: Madison More

Jennifer Iacopelli writes about ambitious girls with big dreams. Her novels include Game, Set, Match; Break the Fall, and Finding Her Edge along with a co-edited anthology, Out of Our League. Her books have been translated into more than a dozen languages and Finding Her Edge has been adapted for television by Netflix. As a high school librarian, she frolics all day with her students, books, and computers and writes at night while cheering on her beloved Yankees. 

Visit Jennifer online:
Website * Instagram * BlueSky

How to win: Use KingSumo to enter the giveaway. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us. If you have trouble using KingSumo on our blog, enter the giveaway here.

Giveaway ends February 10th at midnight EST.

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Book Review: The Island

By Becky Gulc

‘YOU DON’T KNOW WHAT YOU’RE CAPABLE OF UNTIL THEY COME FOR YOUR FAMILY.

After moving from a small country town to Seattle, Heather Baxter marries Tom, a widowed doctor with a young son and teenage daughter. A working vacation overseas seems like the perfect way to bring the new family together, but once they’re deep in the Australian outback, the jet-lagged and exhausted kids are so over their new mom.

When they discover a remote Dutch Island, off-limits to outside visitors, the family talks their way onto the ferry, taking a chance on an adventure far from the reach of iPhones and Instagram. But as soon as they set foot on the island, which is run by a tightly knit clan of locals, everything feels wrong. Then a shocking accident propels the Baxters from an unsettling situation into an absolute nightmare.

When Heather and the kids are separated from Tom, they are forced to escape alone, seconds ahead of their pursuers. Now it’s up to Heather to save herself and the kids, even though they don’t trust her, the harsh bushland is filled with danger, and the locals want her dead.

Heather has been underestimated her entire life, but she knows that only she can bring her family home again and become the mother the children desperately need, even if it means doing the unthinkable to keep them all alive.’ (Synopsis courtesy of Orion Books.)

I got hold of The Island without really knowing what to expect, other than a recommended thrilling read which was enough for me! Wow. This was indeed one of the most gripping books I’ve read in a long time. I’m sure I stopped breathing at multiple points, I was so on edge! From fairly early on the tension is up there and stays up there throughout, which can’t be easy to write. Every time you think things can’t get worse, they do.

As the synopsis outlines, the story follows a family holiday that goes suddenly and drastically wrong. I found myself whizzing through this novel as I just couldn’t put it down; the pace is fast and it’s just gripping. 

It does get quite gory in places so this won’t be for everyone if you’re squeamish. Whilst I wouldn’t want to read this kind of novel all the time, I found this okay and it added to the tension.

My only criticism is that after such an intense book, once everything came to a head, I was left wanting to know more about the aftermath – this seemed quite brief. 

The ‘island’ is truly claustrophobic and the whole novel felt very cinematic so it wasn’t a surprise to read this is being adapted and I look forward to watching it one day. This is a tense, fast-paced thriller that’s hard to put down and perfect if you’re in the mood for something dark and dramatic! 

More by Adrian McKinty:
The Chain
Fifty Grand 
Falling Glass

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Spotlight and Giveaway: It's Not Her

We're excited to celebrate the publication of Mary Kubica's latest thriller, It's Not Her! Mary is one of Melissa's go-to thriller authors and she has this at the top of her five-book pile. Thanks to HarperCollins, we have one copy to give away!

A scream shatters the silence…

Courtney Gray’s peaceful vacation turns into a nightmare when she discovers her brother and sister-in-law dead in their lakeside cottage. Her niece Reese is missing. Her nephew Wyatt is asleep upstairs—unharmed.

A town full of secrets…

As police swarm the quiet resort, dark truths about Courtney’s family—and the town itself—begin to surface. Is Reese a victim… or the killer?

A truth no one saw coming…

With everyone hiding something, Courtney races to uncover the terrible mystery. But the closer she gets, the harder it is to know who—or what—to trust. (Synopsis courtesy of Amazon.)

“A family vacation turns unspeakably grim. I relished every page. Tantalizing, terrifying and all too real. I couldn’t put it down.” 
—Shari Lapena, New York Times bestselling author of She Didn’t See It Coming

“Compulsively readable and impossible to put down, this book starts with a bang and doesn't let up. It’s Not Her is both a terrifying, twisting thriller, and a glimpse into the heart of a family both before and after a tragedy. Mary Kubica is an absolute master of suspense!” 

—Megan Miranda, New York Times bestselling author of You Belong Here

“A gripping thrill ride with razor sharp tension and a whiplash ending I never saw coming. Kubica is a masterful storyteller!” 

—Jeneva Rose, #1 New York Times bestselling author

Credit: Sarah Jastre

Mary Kubica is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of numerous suspense novels, including The Good Girl, Local Woman Missing, and Just the Nicest Couple. A former high school history teacher with degrees in History and American Literature from Miami University, she lives outside Chicago with her husband and two children. Her books—translated into over thirty languages and selling more than five million copies worldwide—have earned accolades from People, Kirkus Reviews, and the Chicago Tribune, and have been recognized by Goodreads, Amazon, and LibraryReads. (Bio adapted from Mary's website.)

Visit Mary online:

Website * Facebook * Instagram

How to win: Use KingSumo to enter the giveaway. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us. If you have trouble using KingSumo on our blog, enter the giveaway here.

Giveaway ends February 8th at midnight EST.

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