kearstinreading's reviews
42 reviews

Eligible by Curtis Sittenfeld

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emotional funny lighthearted medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

2.5

Eligible holds the promise of a modern and entertaining take on the timeless classic, Pride and Prejudice. With Liz as a magazine writer and Jane as a yoga instructor, the story's contemporary setting in New York City seems like an intriguing backdrop. However, as the plot unfolds, it quickly becomes apparent that this modern-day adaptation is far from being a favorite of mine.

The book starts with Liz and Jane rushing back to their family home in Cincinnati due to their father's health scare, only to discover a once-idyllic place now falling apart with financial problems, and a mother who seems unwilling to address them.

My initial excitement to dive into this book gradually turned into disappointment, mainly due to some questionable authorial choices. It feels as though the author tried to incorporate multiple storylines and character traits to cater to a broader audience. Unfortunately, these attempts went horribly wrong. The novel is marred by instances of transphobia, homophobia, fatphobia, and references to eating disorders. Even beloved characters express opinions and say things that are not just out of character but also offensive, making you wonder why you ever rooted for them in the first place.

While I managed to finish the book, it's a read I wish I hadn't undertaken. The inclusion of these controversial plotlines is deeply disappointing and significantly detracts from the enjoyment of this modern adaptation of Pride and Prejudice.

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Carrie Soto Is Back by Taylor Jenkins Reid

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emotional hopeful inspiring medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

Carrie Soto is Back is a thrilling dive into the world of professional tennis, and even though I'm not exactly a tennis enthusiast, Taylor Jenkins Reid's storytelling prowess still managed to captivate me.

The story revolves around Carrie Soto, a former tennis sensation who once held an impressive record of 20 Grand Slam championships. In the twilight of her career, Carrie should be savoring her well-deserved retirement, exploring other interests or hobbies. However, she can't quell the fire of her competitive spirit. When her record is shattered by the formidable Nicki Chan, a rising star in the tennis world, Carrie is unable to let her title go and decides to come out of retirement to try and reclaim her glory.

I'll be honest - I'm not a tennis aficionado, but I truly enjoyed this book. It's a testament to Taylor Jenkins Reid's exceptional storytelling abilities. She managed to draw me into the world of tennis, making the sport itself a backdrop to a much broader narrative.

One remarkable aspect of the book is the main character, Carrie Soto. She's not exactly the most likable character that Taylor Jenkins Reid has ever created. In fact, I found her to be one of the most unlikable. Her self-discoveries and personal growth come rather late in the story, which had unfortunate consequences for many of her relationships. Despite her imperfections, though, I couldn't help but root for her. The way TJR wrote her matches made me hold my breath, hoping she'd regain her former glory.

This book is an excellent choice for sports fans, especially tennis enthusiasts. However, it's not just a sports story; it's a tale of perseverance and the lessons learned through the journey. If you're already immersed in the world Taylor Jenkins Reid has created through her books, "Carrie Soto is Back" should definitely make its way onto your reading list. It's a compelling and worthwhile read.
The Wife Upstairs by Freida McFadden

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dark mysterious tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.75

"The Wife Upstairs" revolves around Sylvia, a woman with not much going for her, who stumbles upon a golden opportunity. A wealthy, handsome man offers her a deal too good to resist: live in his home rent-free and serve as his wife's companion, all while getting paid for it. Despite some initial reservations, Sylvia agrees to the offer.

She moves into the man's house and meets Victoria, a stunning woman who, due to a terrible fall down the stairs, is in a wheelchair and unable to speak. As the days unfold, Sylvia realizes that Victoria has a story she needs to share, if only she can help her find her voice.

If I hadn't already read "Verity," I might have found this book to be even more appealing. Don't get me wrong; I still managed to devour the entire book within 24 hours, and I couldn't help but be engrossed until the very end. However, the similarities between the two books were glaring, which, to be honest, somewhat dampened the experience for me.

One thing I appreciated about "The Wife Upstairs" is that it offered more of a "conclusion" compared to "Verity." It answered the questions I had about the characters' fates, which was a plus.

On the flip side, Sylvia, as a character, was somewhat frustrating. I found myself shaking my head and feeling exasperated by her because some of the decisions she made were undeniably poor. Her actions and decisions were a huge source of conflict for me. So many problems could have been avoided if she had just used her better judgment.

There were also a few plot holes that Sylvia chose to ignore, which was a bit baffling. She arrived at conclusions that directly contradicted what Eva told her earlier in the book. This was a bit perplexing and disrupted the narrative for me.

In the end, I'd say "The Wife Upstairs" was a decent read. It certainly has appeal for those who enjoy books in the vein of "Verity" and are looking for a more comprehensive and conclusive ending to the story.
The Inmate by Freida McFadden

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dark mysterious tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

"The Inmate" takes readers on a gripping journey through the tumultuous life of Brooke, a nurse practitioner recently employed at a local prison. Amid the prison's stringent rules that forbid any form of camaraderie with inmates, Brooke carries a heavy secret: her ex-boyfriend is incarcerated within those very walls, and it was her involvement that led to his imprisonment.

Freida McFadden has this knack for keeping readers on the edge of their seats, and "The Inmate" is no exception. The suspense throughout the book is just palpable. She's got this way of hiding the plot twists until the very last moment, and it's a skill she's perfected. That said, after reading a bunch of her books, I've started to catch on to her style, so I managed to predict some of the twists. However, she still managed to throw me off with a few unexpected developments.

One thing I love about McFadden's writing is how smoothly it flows. Her narratives are consistently engaging and keep the story moving forward without missing a beat. Although I did notice a bit of repetition in the book, her talent for focusing on the essential details and keeping the story on track shines through.

But here's the one thing that didn't quite earn this book a perfect score from me – the motivation behind the characters' actions. I like understanding why characters do what they do; it adds depth to the story. While the ambiguity in character motivations might reflect real life, it left me a bit frustrated as a reader.

All in all, "The Inmate" is another feather in Freida McFadden's cap. Her mastery of suspense, clever twists, and well-crafted narratives continues to impress me. This book, despite some minor hiccups, offers a thrilling and engaging reading experience for fans of the genre.
The Midnight Library by Matt Haig

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emotional hopeful reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

Have you ever pondered the endless possibilities that could have unfolded if you had made different choices in your life? The Midnight Library, a place between life and death, holds the answers to those questions. Nora Seed, teetering on the brink of existence, finds herself within the enigmatic realm of the Midnight Library. Within its walls, countless books line the shelves, each containing the story of a life she could have lived if she had made different decisions.

Intrigued by this second chance, Nora is tasked with exploring these alternate lives, each branching from a pivotal choice she didn't make. The library offers her a unique opportunity to sift through the countless "what if" scenarios to discover the life that's worth living.

As Nora navigates the diverse narratives in the books, I found myself loving and hating different versions of her character. It was fascinating to witness how the smallest of choices could drastically alter her personality, beliefs, and priorities. Some versions of her were deeply connected to friends and family, while others were highly successful but profoundly lonely. The exploration of these diverse outcomes provided a thought-provoking journey.

If you've ever spent time contemplating the "what ifs" of life, "The Midnight Library" is an excellent choice for you. Matt Haig's storytelling invites readers to explore the roads not taken, contemplate their own choices, and ultimately appreciate the unique beauty of the life they're living.
Ninth House by Leigh Bardugo

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adventurous dark mysterious medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.75

When it comes to unexpected life paths, Alex Stern's journey might top them all. She dropped out of school, got involved with a drug dealer, and even became the sole survivor of a multiple homicide. Yale University seemed like the last place on Earth one would expect her to land. However, a mysterious offer arrives, granting her a full scholarship to Yale in exchange for her role in monitoring the school's secret societies. Seizing the opportunity to leave her tumultuous past behind, Alex embarks on her Ivy League adventure. Little does she know that the seemingly calm world of Yale's secret societies might be more dangerous than the chaos she left behind.

I'll admit that "Ninth House" initially presented a challenge for me. The first few chapters felt dense, and I'm the type who usually seeks escape in easy reads or thrillers. The dense writing style felt like a barrier to my limited free time. However, determination led me to revisit the book during my maternity leave, and, as it turns out, being trapped under a newborn for naps and feeds provided the perfect opportunity to dive into the story.

Once I managed to push past those early chapters, I discovered a story that I couldn't help but fall in love with. Flawed as she was, Alex's character resonated with me, and I found myself empathizing with her struggles. I wanted her to succeed, to make better choices, and I was completely riveted by her journey. The book's captivating narrative even had me reading in the middle of the night during those precious moments of postpartum awakeness. 

Beyond Alex, the setting itself became a character in the story. Yale's campus and its secret societies leaped off the pages and came alive in my mind. The campus setting was reminiscent of "The Magicians" series, which happens to be one of my personal favorites. The world-building in "Ninth House" was simply outstanding. 

In summary, I found the dense writing style and well-crafted characters of "Ninth House" to be a winning combination. This book is a perfect choice for the spooky season, but its compelling story and vibrant characters make it a great read year-round. Once you hurdle that initial challenge, you'll find yourself in the midst of an engrossing tale that's worth every page.
The Last Thing He Told Me by Laura Dave

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emotional mysterious medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.75

In the wake of her husband's sudden and mysterious disappearance, Hannah finds herself grappling with a thousand unanswered questions. Her husband, Owen, has left her with more than just his unexplained vanishing act; he's bequeathed her a stepdaughter, Bailey, who harbors a deep-seated resentment towards her new stepmother. As FBI agents and US Marshals descend upon their home, it becomes apparent that Owen's past holds many enigmatic secrets. Tasked with Owen's final and cryptic instruction - to protect Bailey - Hannah embarks on an emotional and suspenseful journey in search of the truth, both about her husband's true identity and the mysteries surrounding Bailey.

I was drawn to "The Last Thing He Told Me" because of its adaptation into a television series. As a steadfast believer in the supremacy of books over their screen adaptations, I was determined to explore the source material first. 

While often categorized as a thriller, I found "The Last Thing He Told Me" to lean more towards being an emotional mystery. It didn't necessarily keep me on the edge of my seat with heart-pounding suspense, but I was consistently intrigued. The driving force behind my reading was the desire to uncover Owen's whereabouts and unearth the secrets of his past, particularly how they intertwined with Bailey's own identity. It's a compelling narrative that, while not heart-pounding, is emotionally gripping.

One aspect where the book fell somewhat short was in character connection. Despite being a stepmother myself, I found it difficult to relate to Hannah and the other characters, who seemed somewhat two-dimensional. While the characters served their roles within the story, they lacked a depth that would have fostered a stronger emotional connection with the reader.

In conclusion, "The Last Thing He Told Me" is a worthwhile read, particularly if you're a fan of emotional mysteries with a family-oriented focus. While it may not fit the mold of a typical thriller, it offers a compelling and suspenseful narrative that keeps you engaged. Having read the book prior to watching the adaptation, I can affirm that the source material outshines its screen counterpart. Jennifer Garner may have been a great choice for Hannah, but the nuances of the story seem to be better suited for the pages of a novel.
A Pumpkin Spice Killing by Lynn Cahoon

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lighthearted mysterious fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? Yes

3.5

"A Pumpkin Spice Killing" invites readers into the world of The County Seat, a farm-fresh restaurant in Idaho, as its staff embarks on what they believe will be a retreat of rest and relaxation. However, their expectations take a sharp turn when they arrive at what turns out to be a military veteran's home, where their mission is no longer relaxation but cleaning up the house. In this unexpected setting, the team's daily duties reveal an imminent threat to the residents' lives, setting the stage for a cozy novella in the Farm to Fork series.

As a novella, "A Pumpkin Spice Killing" offers a quick and concise reading experience. However, for newcomers to the Farm to Fork series like myself, there is a notable drawback in terms of character familiarity and the nuances of their relationships. The characters' connections and backstories, presumably explained in previous books, were somewhat elusive, making it a bit challenging to fully grasp the dynamics at play.

The novella initially struggled to capture my interest, possibly due to the lack of familiarity with the characters and their histories. Nevertheless, as the story unfolds, it evolves into an easy and engaging read, offering a suitable option for an October-themed book. While it may not be destined for literary awards, it serves as a pleasant, albeit brief, escape for a few hours, perfect for a plane journey or a cozy afternoon spent in a window nook.

In conclusion, "A Pumpkin Spice Killing" is a short and enjoyable read, particularly for fans of the Farm to Fork series who are already invested in the characters and their connections. It may not be a groundbreaking literary masterpiece, but it does offer a cozy and entertaining escape into the world of The County Seat and its engaging mysteries.
People We Meet on Vacation by Emily Henry

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emotional funny lighthearted medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.75

After the delightful "Beach Read," my expectations were sky-high for Emily Henry's "People We Meet on Vacation." Henry has a knack for creating authentic, flawed characters who are easy to root for, even when they drive you to frustration. Unfortunately, "People We Meet on Vacation" left me with mixed feelings in comparison to the previous gem.

The first half of the book seemed to drag at an almost painful pace, causing me to question my commitment to finishing it. It was sheer determination and my admiration for Henry's previous work that kept me going, despite my reservations.

Thankfully, the narrative takes a turn for the better in the second half. Henry dives headfirst into the beloved "friends-to-lovers" plot, a favorite among many readers. The shift of pace injects much-needed energy into the story, and the emotions and longing of the characters, particularly Poppy, are palpable. It's in this latter part of the book that Poppy and Alex's story truly comes to life, and I found myself wholeheartedly cheering them on until the very end.

In sum, "People We Meet on Vacation" is a book that I would recommend, particularly to fans of the "friends-to-lovers" trope. However, I would advise potential readers to prepare for a slow start in the first half of the book. If you can muster the patience to push through, you'll be rewarded with a more engaging and heartfelt story in the latter part, making the journey worthwhile for those who appreciate a good friends-to-lovers narrative.
Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus

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emotional funny inspiring medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.75

"Lessons in Chemistry" takes readers on a journey through the life of Elizabeth Zott, a brilliant chemist who finds herself battling gender biases and struggling for recognition in a male-dominated field. This book is an absolute gem, offering a poignant and relevant story set in the 1960s, echoing the experiences of many women in corporate America.

Elizabeth is undoubtedly one of the brightest minds in her field, but her all-male team at Hastings Research Institute often sees her as little more than the office coffee girl. It's a situation that many women can relate to, even today, as they grapple with gender disparities in the workplace. Elizabeth constantly solves problems for her male counterparts and corrects their research, yet her opportunities are unjustly limited.

The turning point in her life arrives with the entrance of Calvin Evans, a Nobel Prize-nominated scientist who recognizes and celebrates the brilliance of her mind. Their love story begins in the laboratory, leading to a heart-wrenching conclusion that leaves Elizabeth a single mother, striving to achieve her dreams despite the doubters who underestimate her simply because of her gender.

"Lessons in Chemistry" resonates profoundly, touching upon the hurdles that women continue to face in various aspects of life, particularly after becoming mothers. The book's portrayal of these challenges is not just insightful but also empowering. Elizabeth's journey in the face of adversity provides a refreshing narrative of a woman shattering barriers.

The writing style, while not to everyone's taste, is a noteworthy aspect of this book. It seamlessly balances the exploration of darker themes with a lighter, engaging approach. This juxtaposition adds depth and relatability to the story, making it all the more impactful.

While the story initially focuses on the love between Elizabeth and Calvin, it shifts its focus towards themes of family and the importance of having a support system while navigating the trials of motherhood and a career. This shift brings an added layer of depth to the narrative, highlighting the importance of building a "tribe" and the resilience of the human spirit.

In summary, "Lessons in Chemistry" is an absolute triumph, resonating with the experiences of women who have faced the gender biases and challenges of their time. Elizabeth's journey is a powerful testament to the determination and strength of women in the face of adversity. The book's deft handling of dark themes with a light touch makes it a compelling and inspiring read.

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