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amandasbookreview's Reviews (966)
"It may be unfair, but what happens in a few days, sometimes in a single day, can change the course of a whole lifetime..." -The Kite Runner
The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini is an unbelievably moving book. Amir is the son of a wealthy merchant in Afghanistan. He is constantly trying to earn his father's love. He never seems to feel that he is quite good enough. He isn't good at sports but likes to tell stories. He is best friends with his servants' son, Hassan. One day, during a kite-fighting tournament, Amir wins! Hassan runs after the kite when Amir finds him, he is not prepared for what he discovers. To avoid spoilers, what he discovers destroys Amir and eventually his friendship with Hassan. Not long after the tournament, the monarchy in Afghanistan crumbles with the beginnings of the coup. Amir and his father then escape to America. Here, they begin to heal and make a new life. Years later, Amir gets a phone call to return back to Afghanistan. The Taliban is now in control of Afghanistan and Amir must confront his past.
To check out the rest of my review go to amandasbookreviewsite.wordpress.com
The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini is an unbelievably moving book. Amir is the son of a wealthy merchant in Afghanistan. He is constantly trying to earn his father's love. He never seems to feel that he is quite good enough. He isn't good at sports but likes to tell stories. He is best friends with his servants' son, Hassan. One day, during a kite-fighting tournament, Amir wins! Hassan runs after the kite when Amir finds him, he is not prepared for what he discovers. To avoid spoilers, what he discovers destroys Amir and eventually his friendship with Hassan. Not long after the tournament, the monarchy in Afghanistan crumbles with the beginnings of the coup. Amir and his father then escape to America. Here, they begin to heal and make a new life. Years later, Amir gets a phone call to return back to Afghanistan. The Taliban is now in control of Afghanistan and Amir must confront his past.
To check out the rest of my review go to amandasbookreviewsite.wordpress.com
*Thank you Bethany House for giving me a copy of this book in exchange for a review!*
This is not the first time I have read Julie Klassen. I have read several of her works including The Painter’s Daughter, The Girl in the Gatehouse, and Lady of Milkweed Manor. So when I received the email that I would get to review The Ladies of Ivy Cottage, I was ecstatic!
The Ladies of Ivy Cottage by Julie Klassen revolves around the community of Ivy Hill, specifically, Jane, Mercy, and Rachel. Jane is a young widow and runs an Inn called The Bell. Mercy lives at her parent’s cottage and runs a school for girls. Rachel lives with Mercy and at the beginning of the book is quite unsure of what to do. Rachel hates accepting help from others and is determined to pay for her keep at Ivy Cottage. Even though Rachel is a lady, her father had died amidst scandal and ruin. He did not leave her much, except for an entire library of books. Mercy and Jane and many in the community help Rachel start a circulating library. It becomes a success. However, there are mysteries among the books that affect not only their lives but others in the community.
It is safe to say that I adored this book. I loved the friendship between the main characters and their goodness. They are always the first to lend a helping hand instead of pass judgment. Despite enduring heartbreak, loss and societal rules they are determined to make their lives better and those around them. Although, there is one point at the beginning when Rachel declares that she has no appreciation for books and is not an avid reader. This was strange for me, but that is because I can’t live without books. However, I was pleasantly surprised that the book showed Rachel’s journey in becoming a book lover. What I thought was going to be a negative point turned out to be my favorite part of the novel!
Unfortunately, it did take awhile for me to pick up on the storyline because, it picks up where the first book, The Innkeeper of Ivy Hill, left off. I have not read the first book, so there were parts where I was confused about the storyline and the characters. The pieces do come together beautifully. If you want to read this book, I HIGHLY suggest that you read the first book. After reading this book, I plan to go read the first one. This book does slightly end on a cliffhanger as well. There is quite a setup for book three! Overall, it was a beautiful story filled with romance, charity, mystery, and friendship!
This is not the first time I have read Julie Klassen. I have read several of her works including The Painter’s Daughter, The Girl in the Gatehouse, and Lady of Milkweed Manor. So when I received the email that I would get to review The Ladies of Ivy Cottage, I was ecstatic!
The Ladies of Ivy Cottage by Julie Klassen revolves around the community of Ivy Hill, specifically, Jane, Mercy, and Rachel. Jane is a young widow and runs an Inn called The Bell. Mercy lives at her parent’s cottage and runs a school for girls. Rachel lives with Mercy and at the beginning of the book is quite unsure of what to do. Rachel hates accepting help from others and is determined to pay for her keep at Ivy Cottage. Even though Rachel is a lady, her father had died amidst scandal and ruin. He did not leave her much, except for an entire library of books. Mercy and Jane and many in the community help Rachel start a circulating library. It becomes a success. However, there are mysteries among the books that affect not only their lives but others in the community.
It is safe to say that I adored this book. I loved the friendship between the main characters and their goodness. They are always the first to lend a helping hand instead of pass judgment. Despite enduring heartbreak, loss and societal rules they are determined to make their lives better and those around them. Although, there is one point at the beginning when Rachel declares that she has no appreciation for books and is not an avid reader. This was strange for me, but that is because I can’t live without books. However, I was pleasantly surprised that the book showed Rachel’s journey in becoming a book lover. What I thought was going to be a negative point turned out to be my favorite part of the novel!
Unfortunately, it did take awhile for me to pick up on the storyline because, it picks up where the first book, The Innkeeper of Ivy Hill, left off. I have not read the first book, so there were parts where I was confused about the storyline and the characters. The pieces do come together beautifully. If you want to read this book, I HIGHLY suggest that you read the first book. After reading this book, I plan to go read the first one. This book does slightly end on a cliffhanger as well. There is quite a setup for book three! Overall, it was a beautiful story filled with romance, charity, mystery, and friendship!
* I received Beckoned in exchange for an honest review. Thank you, Aviva Vaughn!
Get transported to Barcelona and London in the first part of Aviva Vaughn’s 4-part series, Beckoned: From London with Love. Angela Holquin arrives in London ready to plan some outings with her friends from school. However, no one can attend since they are all busy with internships, no one except Soren Lund. Angela is both nervous and excited, to say the least. The story then goes back to 7 months prior when Angela first arrived in Barcelona, Spain to attend an MBA program. She meets some wonderful people from all over the continent. However, it is the quiet and reserved Soren that catches her eye. She waits and waits for him to make his move but it seems like he is not interested. Little does she know, that Soren is so captivated by Angela but does not know how to approach her. Despite his strong feelings, he misses his chance and Angela goes back to California.
The story then makes its way to present day and as fate would have it, Angela finds herself on a last minute vacation in London and discovers that Soren is there too. They meet for dinner when all their other schoolmates can’t attend and realize that the attraction is still there. Soren is determined to make things right this time around. The passion is there but can they work through all their past issues?
Lord have mercy. This was one roller coaster of a book! First of all, great characters! I loved how all of them were diverse and vibrant! Even, Soren. Soren is quiet and reserved. He doesn’t normally show his feelings or emotions. Angela is outgoing, smart and is always looking for a good time. In the book, they are compared to ice and fire, which is so true. However, beneath Soren’s stern face is a sweet, compassionate man. And their chemistry…wow. It was STEAMY!
However, what I loved most about the story was the author’s descriptions of the cities and the food. She has a real knack for making you feel like you are in Barcelona, Spain or in London, England. I also loved how the author included recipes that were in the novel after the story concluded. I wasn’t a fan of the time jumps and the sudden ending. However, it did leave me wanting more, and I can’t wait to find out what awaits Angela and Soren in the next installment! If you love romance, travel, and food then this book is for you!
Get transported to Barcelona and London in the first part of Aviva Vaughn’s 4-part series, Beckoned: From London with Love. Angela Holquin arrives in London ready to plan some outings with her friends from school. However, no one can attend since they are all busy with internships, no one except Soren Lund. Angela is both nervous and excited, to say the least. The story then goes back to 7 months prior when Angela first arrived in Barcelona, Spain to attend an MBA program. She meets some wonderful people from all over the continent. However, it is the quiet and reserved Soren that catches her eye. She waits and waits for him to make his move but it seems like he is not interested. Little does she know, that Soren is so captivated by Angela but does not know how to approach her. Despite his strong feelings, he misses his chance and Angela goes back to California.
The story then makes its way to present day and as fate would have it, Angela finds herself on a last minute vacation in London and discovers that Soren is there too. They meet for dinner when all their other schoolmates can’t attend and realize that the attraction is still there. Soren is determined to make things right this time around. The passion is there but can they work through all their past issues?
Lord have mercy. This was one roller coaster of a book! First of all, great characters! I loved how all of them were diverse and vibrant! Even, Soren. Soren is quiet and reserved. He doesn’t normally show his feelings or emotions. Angela is outgoing, smart and is always looking for a good time. In the book, they are compared to ice and fire, which is so true. However, beneath Soren’s stern face is a sweet, compassionate man. And their chemistry…wow. It was STEAMY!
However, what I loved most about the story was the author’s descriptions of the cities and the food. She has a real knack for making you feel like you are in Barcelona, Spain or in London, England. I also loved how the author included recipes that were in the novel after the story concluded. I wasn’t a fan of the time jumps and the sudden ending. However, it did leave me wanting more, and I can’t wait to find out what awaits Angela and Soren in the next installment! If you love romance, travel, and food then this book is for you!
*I received this book in an exchange for an honest review*
“Everyone deserves a change…”-Bob, from The Flawed Ones
This book took so much courage to write. The Flawed Ones- A Story of Mental Illness, Addiction, and Love by Jay Chirino is a book that dives deep into the core of mental illness. The author is a Mental Health Advocate and has even experienced some of these things himself. The book is centered around Jay who gets admitted to a psychiatric hospital after serious issues with drugs, depression and suicidal thoughts. The story goes through every detail about his stay there.
The first step is to detox of the drugs he is on. He goes through withdrawals. The next is meeting with a therapist. When he meets the therapist, he has built up walls. It takes time for him to open up and be honest and get to the root of his addiction and emotions. During his stay, he meets several other patients in the hospital. Many are battling similar issues. However, there are some who have been through significant abuse and hardship. Jay builds relationships with many of these people and it helps him realize he is not alone. The one who had the greatest impression on him is Bob. Bob made him really get to the root of his emotions and gave him hope. Towards the end, Jay makes a significant recovery and opens up to those around him, including his therapist. However, he knows the journey is not at an end.
One of the things that really impacted me in this story is how deep the author goes when talking about mental illness. He really breaks down walls and really helps the reader understand or at least get a glimpse of mental illness. I think this is great. Even today there is still so much judgment and skeptics regarding mental health. By talking about it and writing about it, the author is breaking barriers.
There are a few technical issues regarding the structure of the novel. Sometimes when the chapters started I was not aware who was talking, which occasionally caused confusion. There were also a few grammar issues. However, that did not detract from my enjoyment of the novel. The content of the novel was powerful and informative. I really commend the author for taking on such an important topic to help others understand mental illness and addiction.
“Everyone deserves a change…”-Bob, from The Flawed Ones
This book took so much courage to write. The Flawed Ones- A Story of Mental Illness, Addiction, and Love by Jay Chirino is a book that dives deep into the core of mental illness. The author is a Mental Health Advocate and has even experienced some of these things himself. The book is centered around Jay who gets admitted to a psychiatric hospital after serious issues with drugs, depression and suicidal thoughts. The story goes through every detail about his stay there.
The first step is to detox of the drugs he is on. He goes through withdrawals. The next is meeting with a therapist. When he meets the therapist, he has built up walls. It takes time for him to open up and be honest and get to the root of his addiction and emotions. During his stay, he meets several other patients in the hospital. Many are battling similar issues. However, there are some who have been through significant abuse and hardship. Jay builds relationships with many of these people and it helps him realize he is not alone. The one who had the greatest impression on him is Bob. Bob made him really get to the root of his emotions and gave him hope. Towards the end, Jay makes a significant recovery and opens up to those around him, including his therapist. However, he knows the journey is not at an end.
One of the things that really impacted me in this story is how deep the author goes when talking about mental illness. He really breaks down walls and really helps the reader understand or at least get a glimpse of mental illness. I think this is great. Even today there is still so much judgment and skeptics regarding mental health. By talking about it and writing about it, the author is breaking barriers.
There are a few technical issues regarding the structure of the novel. Sometimes when the chapters started I was not aware who was talking, which occasionally caused confusion. There were also a few grammar issues. However, that did not detract from my enjoyment of the novel. The content of the novel was powerful and informative. I really commend the author for taking on such an important topic to help others understand mental illness and addiction.
*I received a copy of The Chalk Man courtesy of Blogging for Books in exchange for an honest review. *
HOLY SUSPENSE BATMAN! The Chalk Man by CJ Tudor kept me on the edge of my seat from beginning to end. The story is narrated by Ed, a man in his 40’s. However, the book goes between 2016 and back to 1986 when Ed was just 12 years old. Everything seems to be connected. There is a domino effect. Every time something happens, it leads to more questions. In 1986, Ed and his friends try to just have fun and stay away from bullies. They come up with chalk figures to communicate with each other. One day, they find a trail of chalk figures used with white chalk, a color they never used. It leads them to a dismembered body a young teenage girl. Everyone liked this girl, so who could have killed her? Thirty years later, Ed and his friends receive messages with the same chalk figures. Someone hasn’t forgotten about the murder. Ed starts to investigate why this is coming back after all this time. However, his investigation makes him realize there is more to the story than he really knew.
This book is great but I definitely saw some similar themes from other books and stories. It reminded me of Stephen King’s It minus the clown, with pieces of Stand By Me and Girl on the Train. This book was filled with memorable characters and loads of deceit. There was suspense from the very first page. At the end of each chapter, there seemed to be another major twist. I was hoping for a heavier punch in the ending since there was so much suspense leading up to the final reveal. However, even though the ending wasn’t as intense as the rest of the book, it was still a thrilling read from beginning to end.
Overall, the one thing that I learned the most from this book was QUESTION EVERYTHING! Nothing was as it seemed. There were always different pieces to the puzzle. And everyone didn’t seem to want to tell the whole truth.
“Not lies. Simply the truths we don’t tell.” –The Chalk Man
If you enjoy mystery, suspense, crime or thrillers, you will enjoy this novel!
HOLY SUSPENSE BATMAN! The Chalk Man by CJ Tudor kept me on the edge of my seat from beginning to end. The story is narrated by Ed, a man in his 40’s. However, the book goes between 2016 and back to 1986 when Ed was just 12 years old. Everything seems to be connected. There is a domino effect. Every time something happens, it leads to more questions. In 1986, Ed and his friends try to just have fun and stay away from bullies. They come up with chalk figures to communicate with each other. One day, they find a trail of chalk figures used with white chalk, a color they never used. It leads them to a dismembered body a young teenage girl. Everyone liked this girl, so who could have killed her? Thirty years later, Ed and his friends receive messages with the same chalk figures. Someone hasn’t forgotten about the murder. Ed starts to investigate why this is coming back after all this time. However, his investigation makes him realize there is more to the story than he really knew.
This book is great but I definitely saw some similar themes from other books and stories. It reminded me of Stephen King’s It minus the clown, with pieces of Stand By Me and Girl on the Train. This book was filled with memorable characters and loads of deceit. There was suspense from the very first page. At the end of each chapter, there seemed to be another major twist. I was hoping for a heavier punch in the ending since there was so much suspense leading up to the final reveal. However, even though the ending wasn’t as intense as the rest of the book, it was still a thrilling read from beginning to end.
Overall, the one thing that I learned the most from this book was QUESTION EVERYTHING! Nothing was as it seemed. There were always different pieces to the puzzle. And everyone didn’t seem to want to tell the whole truth.
“Not lies. Simply the truths we don’t tell.” –The Chalk Man
If you enjoy mystery, suspense, crime or thrillers, you will enjoy this novel!
Check out my review at:
http://magazine.indtale.com/magazine/2018/february/#?page=62
http://magazine.indtale.com/magazine/2018/february/#?page=62
Before We Were Yours by Lisa Wingate is the first book of the year for my local book club and it was quite the emotional ride.
The events behind this novel are based on a true story. Georgia Tann really existed and ran a human trafficking network disguised as an adoption agency where she kidnapped and blackmailed children and sold them to wealthier families. This fictional story of these events follows two timelines. One in 1939 with Rill Foss, the oldest of five children who live on the Mississippi River with their parents Queenie and Briny. The other takes place present-day with Avery Stafford who is a lawyer helping her father, who is a senator, fight cancer.
Check out the rest of my review at
amandasbookreviewsite.wordpress.com
The events behind this novel are based on a true story. Georgia Tann really existed and ran a human trafficking network disguised as an adoption agency where she kidnapped and blackmailed children and sold them to wealthier families. This fictional story of these events follows two timelines. One in 1939 with Rill Foss, the oldest of five children who live on the Mississippi River with their parents Queenie and Briny. The other takes place present-day with Avery Stafford who is a lawyer helping her father, who is a senator, fight cancer.
Check out the rest of my review at
amandasbookreviewsite.wordpress.com