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221 reviews
The Measure by Nikki Erlick
At its core, The Measure reminds us that life isn’t defined by its length but by its depth. We often hear this sentiment, but in the rush of daily life, it’s easy to forget. This book serves as a powerful reminder that what truly matters is how we choose to spend our time, love the people around us, and shape our own stories.
A beautifully written and moving novel, The Measure isn’t just about fate—it’s about resilience, human connection, and the courage to live fully, regardless of what the future holds.
Content warnings: grief, murder, death (moderate), mass/school shootings (moderate), terminal illness (minor), war (minor)
emotional
reflective
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
Summary:
One morning, every adult across the world receives an identical small wooden box, each containing a string of varying length. Soon, the world discovers a profound truth—the length of the string corresponds to the length of one's life. As people grapple with this revelation, society divides into "long-stringers" and "short-stringers," leading to shifts in relationships, careers, government policies, and even love. The novel follows a cast of interconnected characters—each facing the decision of whether to open their box and what to do with the knowledge it holds. Ultimately, The Measure explores fate, free will, and the ways we define the meaning of a life well lived.
Review:
I have always been drawn to character-driven books, especially those that challenge the way we think about life and mortality. The Measure is one of those rare novels that does both, offering a deeply emotional yet thought-provoking reading experience.
What makes this book so impactful is its ability to reflect the anxieties, hopes, and ethical dilemmas we all face. It forces us to ask: If you knew how much time you had left, would you live differently? Would society treat you differently? The way Nikki Erlick weaves together multiple perspectives—each grappling with their own choices—adds a layer of realism and complexity that lingers long after the last page.
One morning, every adult across the world receives an identical small wooden box, each containing a string of varying length. Soon, the world discovers a profound truth—the length of the string corresponds to the length of one's life. As people grapple with this revelation, society divides into "long-stringers" and "short-stringers," leading to shifts in relationships, careers, government policies, and even love. The novel follows a cast of interconnected characters—each facing the decision of whether to open their box and what to do with the knowledge it holds. Ultimately, The Measure explores fate, free will, and the ways we define the meaning of a life well lived.
Review:
I have always been drawn to character-driven books, especially those that challenge the way we think about life and mortality. The Measure is one of those rare novels that does both, offering a deeply emotional yet thought-provoking reading experience.
What makes this book so impactful is its ability to reflect the anxieties, hopes, and ethical dilemmas we all face. It forces us to ask: If you knew how much time you had left, would you live differently? Would society treat you differently? The way Nikki Erlick weaves together multiple perspectives—each grappling with their own choices—adds a layer of realism and complexity that lingers long after the last page.
That the beginning and the end may have been chosen for us, the string already spun, but the middle had always been left undetermined, to be woven and shaped by us.
At its core, The Measure reminds us that life isn’t defined by its length but by its depth. We often hear this sentiment, but in the rush of daily life, it’s easy to forget. This book serves as a powerful reminder that what truly matters is how we choose to spend our time, love the people around us, and shape our own stories.
A beautifully written and moving novel, The Measure isn’t just about fate—it’s about resilience, human connection, and the courage to live fully, regardless of what the future holds.
Content warnings: grief, murder, death (moderate), mass/school shootings (moderate), terminal illness (minor), war (minor)
Content Warnings
Graphic: Grief and Murder
Moderate: Death and Mass/school shootings
Minor: Terminal illness and War
Belladonna by Adalyn Grace
The book’s pacing was its biggest drawback for me. It took me almost four months to finish Belladonna, which speaks volumes about how slow it felt. The plot itself was intriguing, but the execution dragged—this story could have easily been 100 pages shorter. Additionally, the mystery aspect fell flat since many of the twists were predictable well before they were revealed. It was frustrating to watch Signa take so long to piece things together when the clues were glaringly obvious.
That said, Adalyn Grace’s prose was strong, and the gothic atmosphere of Thorn Grove was beautifully crafted. The writing itself was immersive, even when the pacing faltered. I’m still interested in continuing the series, but I sincerely hope Foxglove improves upon the character development, plot, and pacing issues that held Belladonna back.
mysterious
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
Belladonna follows 19-year-old Signa Farrow, a girl who has been surrounded by death her entire life. Orphaned as an infant, she has lived with various guardians—most of whom meet untimely ends. When she is sent to Thorn Grove, the gothic estate of the Hawthorne family, she finds herself entangled in a mystery: her cousin Blythe is gravely ill, and Signa suspects poison. To uncover the truth, she must form an uneasy alliance with Death himself—an alluring, enigmatic figure who has been a shadowy presence in her life for as long as she can remember. As their connection deepens, Signa begins to question the true nature of life, death, and her own powers.
To me, you are a song to a soul that has never known music. Light to someone who has only seen the darkness. You bring out the absolute worst in me, and I become vindictive toward those who treat you in ways I don't care for. Yet you also bring out the best in me - I want to be better because of you. Better for you.
The book’s pacing was its biggest drawback for me. It took me almost four months to finish Belladonna, which speaks volumes about how slow it felt. The plot itself was intriguing, but the execution dragged—this story could have easily been 100 pages shorter. Additionally, the mystery aspect fell flat since many of the twists were predictable well before they were revealed. It was frustrating to watch Signa take so long to piece things together when the clues were glaringly obvious.
That said, Adalyn Grace’s prose was strong, and the gothic atmosphere of Thorn Grove was beautifully crafted. The writing itself was immersive, even when the pacing faltered. I’m still interested in continuing the series, but I sincerely hope Foxglove improves upon the character development, plot, and pacing issues that held Belladonna back.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Grief, Death of parent, and Murder
Moderate: Vomit
Minor: Alcohol
I'm Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy
In this memoir, Jennette McCardy shares her painful journey growing up with an emotionally abusive, controlling mother who pushed her into acting, monitored every aspect of her life, and instilled deep-seated guilt and fear in her. She writes about the impact of this abuse on her mental health, including struggles with eating disorders, unhealthy relationships, and the long road to reclaiming her identity after her mother’s death.
I admit: this book triggered a lot for me. Jennette’s mom was like mine when it came to emotional abuse - the manipulation, the guilt, the control. But I’m at a point now where I’m allowing myself to feel everything, knowing that’s the only way to heal. I read this book at the right time.
When I was almost done, I went on Reddit to see what others thought, and it broke my heart how many people related to Jennette’s story - just like I did. But at the same time, it was oddly comforting to know that I’m not alone.
I admire Jennette for her courage to share her truth. In a twisted way, it was refreshing to see my experiences reflected in someone else’s story. Jennette, you’re not alone either. And as my therapist has reminded me over and over: YOU ARE NOW SAFE.
dark
emotional
sad
fast-paced
5.0
I’ve been wanting to read I’m Glad My Mom Died since it was released, but I didn’t have the courage to. At that point, I hadn’t been to therapy yet, and I was still avoiding confronting my traumatic experiences head-on. One therapy session later, I finally gave in and listened to the audiobook.
In this memoir, Jennette McCardy shares her painful journey growing up with an emotionally abusive, controlling mother who pushed her into acting, monitored every aspect of her life, and instilled deep-seated guilt and fear in her. She writes about the impact of this abuse on her mental health, including struggles with eating disorders, unhealthy relationships, and the long road to reclaiming her identity after her mother’s death.
I admit: this book triggered a lot for me. Jennette’s mom was like mine when it came to emotional abuse - the manipulation, the guilt, the control. But I’m at a point now where I’m allowing myself to feel everything, knowing that’s the only way to heal. I read this book at the right time.
When I was almost done, I went on Reddit to see what others thought, and it broke my heart how many people related to Jennette’s story - just like I did. But at the same time, it was oddly comforting to know that I’m not alone.
I admire Jennette for her courage to share her truth. In a twisted way, it was refreshing to see my experiences reflected in someone else’s story. Jennette, you’re not alone either. And as my therapist has reminded me over and over: YOU ARE NOW SAFE.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Body shaming, Child abuse, Eating disorder, Emotional abuse, Mental illness, Panic attacks/disorders, Sexual assault, Terminal illness, Toxic relationship, Blood, Vomit, and Death of parent
Moderate: Addiction, Alcoholism, Cursing, Drug use, and Alcohol
Minor: Infidelity
The Crash by Freida McFadden
mysterious
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
As always, Freida McFadden's books make for good palate cleansers. However, Polly really irritated me, which took away much of the enjoyment. I don’t regret finishing it, but I wouldn’t have minded skipping it either. Overall, just an average read.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Child abuse, Death, Infertility, Mental illness, Miscarriage, Rape, Blood, Kidnapping, Murder, Pregnancy, Fire/Fire injury, Alcohol, and Injury/Injury detail
Minor: Suicide attempt
The Right Move by Liz Tomforde
One big thing that didn’t sit right with me was how dependent Indy was on other people. She even admitted it herself—she hates being alone. Whenever she was, all her insecurities took over. There was clearly some healing that needed to happen, but the book never really addressed it or emphasized the importance of being okay with solitude.Sure, she and Ryan didn’t immediately get together after she broke up with Alex, but she pretty much jumped from one guy to the next without giving herself space to process a six-year relationship. It felt like she never really took the time to learn how to love herself outside of a relationship.
Ryan, on the other hand, was your typical swoon-worthy romance hero. His acts of service were sweet, but he didn’t bring anything new to the table. He was just another cookie-cutter MMC, the same kind we see over and over in romance books.
At this point, I think The Windy City series just isn’t for me. Two books in, and neither has left a strong enough impression to make me want to continue. The Right Move followed the same predictable formula, making it pretty forgettable. Even though it was supposed to be a quick, easy read, it took me months to finish because I kept losing interest. I usually love the fake dating trope, but this one felt way too dragged out.
Honestly, there are much better sports romance books out there.
P.S. For some reason, characters popped their shoulders 18 times in this book. It drove me nuts. It felt like the author couldn’t find another way to describe a simple movement or just didn’t bother making them do anything else.
lighthearted
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
2.0
Life has a funny way of fulfilling you, even when it isn't in the way you assumed it to be.
One big thing that didn’t sit right with me was how dependent Indy was on other people. She even admitted it herself—she hates being alone. Whenever she was, all her insecurities took over. There was clearly some healing that needed to happen, but the book never really addressed it or emphasized the importance of being okay with solitude.
Ryan, on the other hand, was your typical swoon-worthy romance hero. His acts of service were sweet, but he didn’t bring anything new to the table. He was just another cookie-cutter MMC, the same kind we see over and over in romance books.
At this point, I think The Windy City series just isn’t for me. Two books in, and neither has left a strong enough impression to make me want to continue. The Right Move followed the same predictable formula, making it pretty forgettable. Even though it was supposed to be a quick, easy read, it took me months to finish because I kept losing interest. I usually love the fake dating trope, but this one felt way too dragged out.
Honestly, there are much better sports romance books out there.
P.S. For some reason, characters popped their shoulders 18 times in this book. It drove me nuts. It felt like the author couldn’t find another way to describe a simple movement or just didn’t bother making them do anything else.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Cursing
Moderate: Emotional abuse and Infidelity
Minor: Mental illness and Gaslighting
When We Were by Diana Elliot Graham
I read this almost two years ago, and the story immediately captivated me. It stuck with me for a long time, and I often think about the characters. With the release of Six Morning Kisses, I decided I wanted to experience the emotional impact of this story again before diving into SMK.
Since this is a reread, I can now offer a more objective perspective. For instance, I realize that Ardenis quite an unlikable character. Josh is immature and selfish, which has been clear from the beginning. However, Arden fails to assert herself when necessary; as a result, Josh continues to treat her as if she were his possession. She had countless opportunities to stand up to him, yet she chose not to. Many people warned her about his behavior, but she ignored their advice, which is ironic since she is portrayed as a smart character. Reid deserved better. Although their breakup is painful to witness, it can be seen as a blessing in disguise for Reid. When I first read this, I felt irritated with Arden, but upon rereading it, I am enraged by her inaction.
In summary:
Josh = d*ck
Arden = ignorant
Reid = perfect
I still had a great time reading it and enjoyed the story just as much as I did the first time. Reading When We Were, although painful, is a worthwhile experience—it exposes you to the realities of love and life. It serves as a reminder that certain events are necessary; they shape us and mold us into who we need to become for our future. Yes, it can be painful, but that is the harsh reality of life. The book also emphasizes the importance of being vigilant about the people you surround yourself with, as they can either uplift or break you and significantly alter the course of your life.
emotional
sad
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
Reread Review
Unable to escape into sleep the way normal people do, books have been a comfort, the security blanket, therapy I refused to go to. They ask questions but don’t require answers. They make me think but expect nothing in return. And when I wake up in the middle of the night, they are companions that never complain, either keeping me company as I lay awake of lulling me back into a temporary state of rest.
I read this almost two years ago, and the story immediately captivated me. It stuck with me for a long time, and I often think about the characters. With the release of Six Morning Kisses, I decided I wanted to experience the emotional impact of this story again before diving into SMK.
Since this is a reread, I can now offer a more objective perspective. For instance, I realize that Arden
In summary:
Arden = ignorant
Reid = perfect
I still had a great time reading it and enjoyed the story just as much as I did the first time. Reading When We Were, although painful, is a worthwhile experience—it exposes you to the realities of love and life. It serves as a reminder that certain events are necessary; they shape us and mold us into who we need to become for our future. Yes, it can be painful, but that is the harsh reality of life. The book also emphasizes the importance of being vigilant about the people you surround yourself with, as they can either uplift or break you and significantly alter the course of your life.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Rape, Sexual assault, Sexual content, Toxic friendship, and Alcohol
Ashes of You by Catherine Cowles
What a fantastic book to conclude the series! Throughout the previous four books, Lawson remained a mystery to me, and I never really gave him much thought—certainly not to the point of being excited for his story. I never anticipated that I would end up rating this book five stars!
Hallie was the strongest woman in this series. She faced tremendous challenges and hardships. While I don't intend to downplay anyone else's trauma, her experiences were the most traumatic among all the female main characters. Despite everything, she continued to fight and never gave up on life.
The boys—Luke, Drew, and Charlie—are truly a blessing for Hallie and Lawson. These three brothers are fortunate to be part of the Hartley family, which is filled with love.
I will certainly miss the Hartleys. I shed many tears while reading Ashes of You, not only because of Hallie and Lawson’s story but also because it marked the last time I would get a glimpse into the lives of the Hartleys. Kerry and Nathan deserve a lot of respect for raising such a wonderful and beautiful family, one that you will undoubtedly fall in love with.
Catherine Cowles has gained a new fan in me, and I will definitely explore some of her other series.
dark
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
We all have scars. Things that we think might make us weak. But, in reality, they’re usually the source of our strength.
What a fantastic book to conclude the series! Throughout the previous four books, Lawson remained a mystery to me, and I never really gave him much thought—certainly not to the point of being excited for his story. I never anticipated that I would end up rating this book five stars!
You could have the achingly difficult with the profoundly beautiful. Sometimes, the hard made you appreciate the good more.
Hallie was the strongest woman in this series. She faced tremendous challenges and hardships. While I don't intend to downplay anyone else's trauma, her experiences were the most traumatic among all the female main characters. Despite everything, she continued to fight and never gave up on life.
But maybe that fear is good. It means I’m alive.
The boys—Luke, Drew, and Charlie—are truly a blessing for Hallie and Lawson. These three brothers are fortunate to be part of the Hartley family, which is filled with love.
I will certainly miss the Hartleys. I shed many tears while reading Ashes of You, not only because of Hallie and Lawson’s story but also because it marked the last time I would get a glimpse into the lives of the Hartleys. Kerry and Nathan deserve a lot of respect for raising such a wonderful and beautiful family, one that you will undoubtedly fall in love with.
Catherine Cowles has gained a new fan in me, and I will definitely explore some of her other series.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Panic attacks/disorders, Sexual content, Violence, Blood, Kidnapping, Murder, and Injury/Injury detail
Minor: Emotional abuse, Rape, and Abandonment
Shadows of You by Catherine Cowles
One of the reasons I love small-town romance is that it introduces me to community life: people looking out for one another, helping each other simply because it's the norm, and neighbors always having your back. Of course, gossip comes with the territory, but sometimes it's a small price to pay for living in a town where everyone knows each other. What I appreciate about reading Catherine Cowles' books is how she perfectly captures the magic of small towns.
I wasn't too fond of Maddie in Echoes of You; her decisions seemed questionable and borderline foolish. However, I’m starting to warm up to her while reading Shadows of You. It appears she shines more as a side character than as the main one. On the other hand, Aspen was so strong, kind, and loving. I knew there was a reason I liked her from the first time I read about her.
Roan and all his brokenness really affected me. This book made my heart ache almost throughout the entire reading experience because of all that Roan and Aspen went through. Some might call it a trauma bond, but I see it as finding the perfect person to help you navigate life toward happiness.
I love it when couples in romance books make sense. Roan and Aspen are perfect for each other. I wish them happiness in their own fictional world.
dark
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.5
We can't always carry our own load. Sometimes, we need help. It doesn't make us weak. It makes us human.
One of the reasons I love small-town romance is that it introduces me to community life: people looking out for one another, helping each other simply because it's the norm, and neighbors always having your back. Of course, gossip comes with the territory, but sometimes it's a small price to pay for living in a town where everyone knows each other. What I appreciate about reading Catherine Cowles' books is how she perfectly captures the magic of small towns.
I wasn't too fond of Maddie in Echoes of You; her decisions seemed questionable and borderline foolish. However, I’m starting to warm up to her while reading Shadows of You. It appears she shines more as a side character than as the main one. On the other hand, Aspen was so strong, kind, and loving. I knew there was a reason I liked her from the first time I read about her.
Roan and all his brokenness really affected me. This book made my heart ache almost throughout the entire reading experience because of all that Roan and Aspen went through. Some might call it a trauma bond, but I see it as finding the perfect person to help you navigate life toward happiness.
Everyone has their struggles, but sometimes I think those who have gone through the worst are the ones with the deepest ability to find joy, even in moments of hardship and heartache.”
I love it when couples in romance books make sense. Roan and Aspen are perfect for each other. I wish them happiness in their own fictional world.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Animal death, Bullying, Death, Sexual content, Violence, Blood, Kidnapping, Murder, and Injury/Injury detail
Minor: Domestic abuse, Emotional abuse, and Gaslighting
Glimmers of You by Catherine Cowles
After reading each book in this series, I find myself falling more in love with the Hartley family. I must admit that the constant reminder of Grae's Type 1 diabetes sometimes irritated me a bit, but aside from that, I really enjoyed reading Glimmers of You.
I loved how sweet Caden was. He was broken, but he learned to be fully transparent with Grae because he didn’t want to jeopardize their relationship. They truly deserve all the good in the world and belong together. Grae's heart is so pure; she is incredibly kind and full of love and hope.
I liked Aspen in book 2, but I started to love her in book 3. I hope we learn more about her in the upcoming books (I don’t read the synopses of future installments to avoid spoilers). I do know that each of the Hartley siblings will have their own book, and I cannot wait to read Roan's. He has been my favorite since the beginning, and I’m eager to learn more about his backstory.
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25
I don’t think grief is linear. Some days are easier. Others will take you out at the knees.
After reading each book in this series, I find myself falling more in love with the Hartley family. I must admit that the constant reminder of Grae's Type 1 diabetes sometimes irritated me a bit, but aside from that, I really enjoyed reading Glimmers of You.
I loved how sweet Caden was. He was broken, but he learned to be fully transparent with Grae because he didn’t want to jeopardize their relationship. They truly deserve all the good in the world and belong together. Grae's heart is so pure; she is incredibly kind and full of love and hope.
I liked Aspen in book 2, but I started to love her in book 3. I hope we learn more about her in the upcoming books (I don’t read the synopses of future installments to avoid spoilers). I do know that each of the Hartley siblings will have their own book, and I cannot wait to read Roan's. He has been my favorite since the beginning, and I’m eager to learn more about his backstory.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Emotional abuse, Sexual content, Kidnapping, Grief, and Fire/Fire injury
All the Missing Pieces by Catherine Cowles
Catherine Cowles is truly the queen of romantic suspense. I started reading her books last year, and I have yet to be disappointed. Her novels are so engaging that you can easily finish them in one or two sittings. They are quick to read and effective at pulling you out of a reading slump.
I really felt the betrayal when the killer was finally revealed. Catherine Cowles has a unique ability to draw you in and make you care about the characters, allowing you to truly experience their emotions.
I'm thrilled that I have many more of her books to read because it means I have plenty to look forward to!
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
Life doesn’t guarantee grand movie endings. But every once in a while we get one.
Catherine Cowles is truly the queen of romantic suspense. I started reading her books last year, and I have yet to be disappointed. Her novels are so engaging that you can easily finish them in one or two sittings. They are quick to read and effective at pulling you out of a reading slump.
I really felt the betrayal when the killer was finally revealed. Catherine Cowles has a unique ability to draw you in and make you care about the characters, allowing you to truly experience their emotions.
I'm thrilled that I have many more of her books to read because it means I have plenty to look forward to!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Sexual content, Violence, Blood, Kidnapping, and Murder