lindz's reviews
826 reviews

A Reason for Living by Julian Jingles

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reflective slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? N/A
  • Strong character development? N/A
  • Loveable characters? N/A
  • Diverse cast of characters? N/A
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A

3.0

 A Reason for Living is an okay book to me. I like the history of Jamaica part of this book. Though the other part was not my kind of thing. The writing in this book was done well. Though It seems the plot was about really one person though it says, three men. A reason for Living seems only like it is centered on one man named Howard. Though it shows this in three parts rather than three books.

If the author is trying to show it through three different views of people then I may get it a bit more. Though to me reading it seems like it was one story and centered on one person's emotions. What does this person want? Howard seems stuck. Everyone seems to want him, He seems stuck in the past. Does he know how to cope with what he loses? It seems that no one helps him understand this or what his plan for life. Except maybe towards the end of the book.

This book is set on sexuality throughout the book. I would not allow anyone under the age of eighteen to read this book. It has a lot of sexuality and talks about raping though out the book. This I did pick up on when reading the book. It always shows the time in Jamaica's history in this book and throughout. 
Now That I Know You by Olivia Newport

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adventurous emotional hopeful informative inspiring slow-paced

5.0

 We have been reintroduced to Jillian and Nolan. Her father and I were introduced to her so-called fourth cousin, Cate Buttler, on her mother's side. We also know Drew is mentioned, who seems to be now dating Jillian.

How will Jillian feel about this new cousin from the Perisi family? Who is Cate Buttler, and is she related to Jillian Duffy? Cate seems to persist in Jillian helping her and understanding her, but she comes unannounced. Can Jillian help her?

The plot gets ticker as we get started. The book takes time to travel back to 1913, in Pueblo, Colorado, to begin the family history story. The book does go back to the present again. We will get this throughout, and it is interesting. We meet Carrick and Ela.

We are introduced to a few more characters in 1913. They are Caterina, her husband Geppetto, and her son Giuseppe (Peppy). We also got the name Salvatore as an uncle's name.  We jump to September 19, 1913, and learn about Parisi's family history through the eyes of Caterina. When she reads about the strike, she starts to worry about her friend Chiara, who is sick with a child.  Chiara's husband is a miner who works for a mining company. Will she bring her friend Chiara and her husband home to stay?
We also learn that Parisi worked for Carrick and Ela Kyps, the ranch owners, in 1913. But will they survive and bring home their friends? Caterina seems to Ela that she does not like the coming strike. They offer or ask her to go and get her friend Chiara. Will they find and bring them home?

Jillian is getting ready to head south to meet up with her Cate Butler, who says she is a cousin and asks what career Cate has and why she might or is asking for Jillian's help. Nolan is still home when she comes down to eat. Jillian wants to know if her dad won't be coming. He has to deal with Court and meetings. However, Drew will be meeting her. Nolan seems to be getting calls that he does not want his daughter to overhear. Jillian still wished he was coming with her. What is this call about, or about his court meeting in Denver? Will Jillian get clues about Cate Butler or any other clues about her mother's side of the family history? 
The Protector by Wanda E. Brunstetter

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emotional mysterious sad 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? No

5.0

We find out that his sister has mysteriously disappeared. Everyone does not know where she is or what happened to her. Each member of the family is dealing with her disappearance in different ways. Rosa is missing, and no one has heard from her.

As months go on, how will each member react and deal with their loss? Will Rosa's mother ever stop pinning for her daughter? Will Norman accept that he may not be able to find his sister? Will he be able to move on with life? Each sibling is dealing with their sibling Rosa a bit differently. But can they come to peace with Rosa's disappearance and not contact them? No one knows what happened, and Rosa's boyfriend seems to be suspected, at least by Norman, as her boyfriend was the last to see her.

Norman seems obsessed with his sister's disappearance. Will he be able to keep his relationship with his girlfriend, or will his sister's disappearance be what makes them drift apart? Can Norman find peace if he never finds out where his sister has gone?

Norman seems to be learning about something, though something happens to his girlfriend's horse. Will Norman and Salina make it? Salina hopes that she and Norman will get married soon. Will Norman find peace and contentment? He seems to need to learn that he may be unable to solve or fix every problem. He may need to see that and learn that lesson. 

Wanda does an excellent job writing a mystery. She explores all the emotions that go through a person or family when someone goes missing without anyone knowing. Did Rosa leave on her own, or did she not? Does her boyfriend know where Rosa is or what happened to her that night?
The Rise and Fall of Miss Fannie's Biscuits: A Cozy Amish Mystery by Martha Bolton, Wanda E. Brunstetter

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adventurous funny hopeful inspiring 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? It's complicated

4.5

I started this book and am so far in—it's just getting started. I have already met three of the characters, and I can not wait to see what happens to all of them. 

It looks like one of the Bailer sisters is after Mr.Bates. But Mr. Bates seems to like and enjoy Miss Fannie. He seems not to be interested in a certain Belier sister. Miss Fannie is quite excited about the baking contest and enters it every year. Will she win it this year? She seems excited once more, given that she wants to advertise it in her area and around the other towns to help bring folks to enter and enjoy the contest.

We get introduced to a few more characters, one of which is Melissa. Iva seems worried and isn't sure if she can tell Fannie her worries, though she comes in to get sewing supplies. What's up with Iva and her family? What was Melissa doing, and was she checking on contestants to enter the baking contest?

We get more interesting, and there are twists and turns. Will Mr. Bates and Frannie solve the missing connections or even the red envelope mystery? There seems to be a bit of romance, or is it friendship between Foster and Fannie? What is really going on that Foster and Fannie can not seem to find all the missing contestants? Where did that all go? Was there foul play, or did they just forget to when the loss?

Will Jeb get his attention from his dad, or will he be ignored? All contestants learn a few lessons along the way. However, they are all different for each one. The authors do an excellent writing job, making this so much fun to read, and you want to turn the pages as you read.
Saved by the Matchmaker by Jody Hedlund

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emotional hopeful 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? No

5.0

Upon discovering this book, I was immediately drawn to its description. I have a penchant for history, especially when it's presented in a way that's not overly serious but still retains a hint of fiction. Having enjoyed the author's previous works, I was eager to delve into Saved by Matchmaker, fully anticipating the same level of personal enjoyment from her unique writing style that I've experienced before.

It is how it starts, and we meet a daughter named Enya, her father, and her brother. However, when Enya mentions that she is holding a secret that will harm her family's reputation, things get pulled into action when her brother rushes to meet the matchmaker named Bellemy.

We are also introduced to Sullivan O'Brien and his livelihood. Will Sullivan take his father's ultimatum and lose his life? Will I love Enya, and will they indeed find love with each other? Will Enya learn to trust Sullivan, or will she fall back when she compares her new husband to Brian? Will he overcome her trust issues and fall in love with Sullivan?

We see that Sullivan loves to free enslaved people, but will the enslaved person catch him captured? Enya seems to see and want to help her husband, or she has found an enslaved person while returning from New Orleans.

There was a fire that caused some boats to be lost. But will Sullivan save him and the enslaved person, or will he be lost to see when he daringly moves to have his boat floating away from other ships? Will he help save another boat so the fire does not spread, or was it someone who started fires? Was it an act of nature?

What does the matchmaker see in Enya? Why does he think Sullivan is a good match for Enya? There seems to be something Belmy sees in Enya, and she can see Sullivan as a match. Will it work? Belmy appears to have a knack for matchmaking to have them marry and fall in love. 
Evergreen Forevermore by T.A. Cline

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emotional hopeful inspiring lighthearted mysterious slow-paced

5.0

Evergreen Forevermore is a captivating tale set in the picturesque hometown of Whitecap. It is a book brimming with mystery and intrigue. We are introduced to a young man named John Devore, who, driven by a deep sense of duty, becomes a paramedic to serve his community.

We are introduced to a judge who is a friend of John's. We meet a young woman named Katherine who needs to learn a few things about people. The story starts in a shelter in New York, where John volunteers and has met some friends along the way.

John and the Judge share a unique bond, a friendship that transcends their professional lives. The Judge, intrigued by John's tales of his hometown, expresses a desire to visit Whitecap. Will this wish be fulfilled? This book, with its rich tapestry of characters, holds the answer.

John sees a man working on the streets and wonders about him. His grandfather tells him his name is Fred Bates. John appears to start a conversation with Fred and introduces him. He also sees Fred Bates's interest in the new medic truck and wonders why. He finds a way to get Fred to work with him at the firehouse.

As the story goes on, there seems to be secrecy and mystery around every door. What are these mysteries, and will John be able to help? The story begins when the Judge has to sentence a woman he meets. Will a change of scenery and learning about others help out the young woman? What about her father? There is more to the plot than just learning about expectations and how others are feeling. The young woman needs an attitude change or will be in much more trouble if she continues her path. Will her father understand that he needs to let his daughter learn the hard lessons and stand on her own to two feet?

Judge James Wilcox, a pivotal character, embarks on a journey with John to uncover long-awaited hidden secrets. Will his efforts lead to a long-overdue family reunion for Katherine and Fred? Will a sweet handyperson, be haunted by the memory of his lost and beloved wife, find closure? Fred, a veteran, is finally recognized for his bravery. Will he be able to forgive himself for the past?

This book is heartwarming. I really enjoyed it. I love how this ends. The characters are my favorite. However, each main character's story is involved in the other's. It is more about a story about a town and town folk than just a personal story. TA Cline does a wonderfully good job on this. I recommend this book and these other two books as well. This one is a top favorite. I would like to know if this book can be beaten from the top of the list.

This book is a treasure trove for those who seek a rollercoaster of emotions. If you are a fan of heartfelt stories, mysteries that keep you on the edge of your seat, and the complexities of family dynamics, this book is a must-read. It skillfully weaves together a diverse cast of characters, including a veteran, each adding a unique flavor to the narrative.
Bound Across Time by Annie R. McEwen

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

5.0

Bound Across Time is intrigued with the title. The description also pulled me in. Who doesn't like a bit of paranormal with historical fiction mixed in? I was surprised by something I usually do not read, which brings in some magic. 

Bound Across Time stands out with its unique blend of historical fiction, time travel, or 'time slip 'elements. The inclusion of a female main character, a rarity in this genre, adds a refreshing perspective to the narrative. Complementing her, a male main character brings depth to the story. The book's initial promise of a mix of paranormal romance and historical fiction is a unique combination that it successfully delivers on.

Though most of the story takes place in the castle and its grounds, I like that the author included a bit of witchcraft and soulers. Though the book's pace at the beginning is a bit slow, it does pick up and get more interesting when things happen without FMC and our MMC meeting each other.

Bound Across Time masterfully weaves a tantalizing mystery into its narrative, keeping the reader on the edge of their seat. The FMC's initial ignorance of her family history adds a layer of intrigue, and as the story unfolds, her research on a young man who is a ghost leads to unexpected and fascinating revelations. This element of suspense is a major draw for readers interested in historical fiction with a paranormal twist.

CeCe wants to go to Wales to use her history degree. What she finds is different from what she expected. The plot is excellent. However, I was unsure if CeCe found out who she was in the plot. But it was good nonetheless. Mixing in love, witchcraft, and a little magic was good. I enjoyed it and will read more about it. The ending has me wanting more. I would have liked to hear more about CeCe and her lover.

This book may be your ally if you love witchcraft and historical fiction with a paranormal romance. I was craving to find out more about CeCe and what happened at the end. I wanted more, and there is a bit of explicit sex in this book, but nothing to offend anyone. Does CeCe and her lover have sons or not, or does CeCe have a big family? You will need to find out by reading.

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Khahari Discovers the Meaning of Autism by Evan J. Roberts

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emotional hopeful lighthearted fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? N/A
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A

4.0

Khahari Discovering the Meaning of Autism is an excellent educational book for children. It is simple and explains the emotions of Khahari,  his friend Omari, and Omari's cousin Jayden.

The boys decide they want to play. Kharhari goes out to play basketball with his friend  Omari. When they do, Omari introduces Jayden to Khahari, and they start playing. However, a misunderstood happens when Jayden goes after the ball and takes it inside. Will Khahari and Omari play again, or will a misunderstanding get in the way?

When playing, misunderstandings happen. Things go awry. Will learning about something you do not know and trying to have fun help Khahari and Omari come to an understanding? Can they help teach Jayden how to share by taking turns and playing a game?

As the story unfolds, the children learn and understand each other. This book is about Khahari, Omari, and Jayden. It shows that children with autism are not so different in their desire to play. They just have a unique way of understanding. By asking questions and learning about themselves, your child can help educate all children. Khahari is learning about autism, and Jayden is learning about sharing and taking turns. And together, we're all learning about empathy and inclusivity.

Omari and Khahari strengthen their friendship and help each other out through their understanding of the challenges and struggles of autism. This is a lesson all children can benefit from. The author has made it simple and easy to understand and read, ensuring children's learning journey is enjoyable. And the best part? The fun and learning continue after the book. They continue in real life, where understanding and empathy can make a difference.
The Protector by Shelley Shepard Gray

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emotional hopeful lighthearted medium-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

I must say I really enjoyed continuing to read about the characters from the first book. Ella really deals with self esteem issues,but it was so nice to see her come out of her shell. The character of Dorothy was quite fascinating to hear about. I think bitterness over what had happened to her when she was younger really taken a little far. I really don't think that I have ever read another Amish character quite like her.
I also intrigue in reading  more about Calvin and Lucy, and I great seeing things through young Katie's eyes.Her determination to get to the library and sign up for the summer reading program was so sweet. The scenes that take place in the Kaffi Haus really had me wanting to find out what going on there.
I also like the continuing story of Maddie and her health issues and Graham part of the story. Though I think Mattie has found her special someone but  I am hoping she find out soon.
Zodiac by Romina Russell

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adventurous 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? It's complicated

5.0

Zodiac by Romina Russell This book starts out with a family that live in house Cancer. It about a 16 year old student that has a unusual way of reading the stars. The family is Romina and Stanton and her dad. Her mother leaves her family. It mostly about Romina her talent.There a blast at her school that she attending and reading stars. Rho is told she has to re-do the test. Though she see something in the first time. She does it with out the measurements unlike her classmates.  They all thinks she making up stories. There as event that happens while she with the band. What happens here starts a chain reaction. Only a few students survive the event.Any of the survivors that survive are sent back to their home planet. Though Rho and her friends end up going to House of Cancer. Everyone is surprised to see all destruction. Things get more exciting once they reach Ocean 6 station on House Cancer.The book get you hook to wanting more and it even get better. There are adventures throughout the book. There are twist and turns. It keep you guessing at whats going happen. Is he Dark Matter real? Is Rho Guardian of House Cancer? What will happen next? Did the Council do the right thing by taking Guardianship of Rho?