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mackenzierm's reviews
1612 reviews
Such a Fun Age by Kiley Reid
3.0
Alix is a woman who gets what she wants and has made a living showing others how to do the same. Alix is shocked when her babysitter, Emira, is confronted while watching her daughter, Briar, one night while they’re walking the aisles of the supermarket. The store’s security guard accuses Emira, a young Black woman, of kidnapping a small white child. A bystander films everything while a crowd gathers, leaving Emira feeling furious and humiliated. Alix is determined to make it right but Emira is wary of Alix’s desire to help. Emira is feeling lost and unsure what to do with her life. When the supermarket video gets released, both Emira and Alix find themselves on a path that will upend everything they know about themselves and each other.
SUCH A FUN AGE is told in dual POVs, alternating between Emira and Alix. The writing style is clean and crisp, making it a breeze to read (and listen to).
I liked the characters that are encountered. Emira and Alix are two very different women with very different experiences and outlooks. I thought both to be well written, developed, and interesting. They each have their flaws but it made them feel more realistic and relatable.
I thought the discussion surrounding one person’s idea of helping another doesn’t always translate to actually being helpful was interesting and provided some food for thought. I really enjoyed the author’s use of both main characters to look at each of the biases they hold, as well as the navigation of different life paths. It was an interesting contrast between the two. I think this would make for a great book club read as there’s lots that can be discussed here.
One of my qualms while reading was the portrayal of Alix as a bad mom. This is how it came across to me as the reader and may not have been what was intended. I feel like Alix was doing her best to be a good mom – you can see her efforts at this throughout the book – so it felt like an unfair judgment of her character in this particular respect.
The audiobook narration was well done.
SUCH A FUN AGE is told in dual POVs, alternating between Emira and Alix. The writing style is clean and crisp, making it a breeze to read (and listen to).
I liked the characters that are encountered. Emira and Alix are two very different women with very different experiences and outlooks. I thought both to be well written, developed, and interesting. They each have their flaws but it made them feel more realistic and relatable.
I thought the discussion surrounding one person’s idea of helping another doesn’t always translate to actually being helpful was interesting and provided some food for thought. I really enjoyed the author’s use of both main characters to look at each of the biases they hold, as well as the navigation of different life paths. It was an interesting contrast between the two. I think this would make for a great book club read as there’s lots that can be discussed here.
One of my qualms while reading was the portrayal of Alix as a bad mom. This is how it came across to me as the reader and may not have been what was intended. I feel like Alix was doing her best to be a good mom – you can see her efforts at this throughout the book – so it felt like an unfair judgment of her character in this particular respect.
The audiobook narration was well done.
Here We Go Again by Alison Cochrun
4.0
Logan and Rosemary used to be friends, spending their childhood summers together running through the woods, rebelling against their small town, and dreaming of escaping. The summer before high school ended turned them into bitter rivals… and after graduation, they went ten years without speaking. Now in their thirties, neither is living the life they expected to be. They’re both still in their small hometown working as teachers. Logan and Rosemary both try so hard to ignore each other, but when their beloved former English teacher and lifelong mentor reveals he only has a few months to live, they’re forced to band together to fulfill his wish of a last cross-country road trip.
HERE WE GO AGAIN is reminiscent of Mrs Nash’s Ashes. I am really into the idea of a last road trip as a sort of final hurrah.
HERE WE GO AGAIN is told in dual POV, alternating between Logan and Rosemary’s narratives. The audiobook gets a special A+ from me for having two narrators, one for each MC’s voice. I really loved both main characters – they’re both total opposites but share so much in common. I loved the relationship and bond they shared with Joe, their mentor. It was so special and so heartwarming.
It was really interesting to me to see how the author depicted different presentations of ADHD as well as the differences in sexuality and sexual expression. I think these aspects were well done.
HERE WE GO AGAIN is a story that packs an emotional punch while navigating some difficult topics and situations. I would definitely advise checking the trigger warnings. It’s a truly beautiful story filled with hardship, joy, laughter, love, grief, and sadness.
I think this is my favorite book by this author to date!
HERE WE GO AGAIN is reminiscent of Mrs Nash’s Ashes. I am really into the idea of a last road trip as a sort of final hurrah.
HERE WE GO AGAIN is told in dual POV, alternating between Logan and Rosemary’s narratives. The audiobook gets a special A+ from me for having two narrators, one for each MC’s voice. I really loved both main characters – they’re both total opposites but share so much in common. I loved the relationship and bond they shared with Joe, their mentor. It was so special and so heartwarming.
It was really interesting to me to see how the author depicted different presentations of ADHD as well as the differences in sexuality and sexual expression. I think these aspects were well done.
HERE WE GO AGAIN is a story that packs an emotional punch while navigating some difficult topics and situations. I would definitely advise checking the trigger warnings. It’s a truly beautiful story filled with hardship, joy, laughter, love, grief, and sadness.
I think this is my favorite book by this author to date!
The Last One at the Wedding by Jason Rekulak
3.0
Frank hasn’t spoken to his daughter in several years so he’s shocked when she calls and invites him to her upcoming wedding. The wedding is at a secluded and luxurious private estate. Maggie has failed to mention that she’s marrying Aidan Gardiner, a famous tech billionaire. Frank decides to focus on reconnecting with Maggie and getting to know her new family. It’s not easy – Aidan is withdrawn, Maggie doesn’t have time for him, and the locals are hostile towards the Gardiners. Frank wants to know more about the family his daughter is marrying into, but he knows if he pushes too hard, he could lose Maggie forever.
THE LAST ONE AT THE WEDDING has a setting I absolutely adore – a large and secluded private estate with more secrets than meets the eye. It’s atmospheric and tense.
The characters are interesting and well-written, but not all are very likable. Frank is the main character and narrator of this story – he gives off a bit of a strange vibe, but deep down you can see he’s just a dad who wants to have a bond with his daughter and wants what’s best for her. His character is written realistically and is relatable.
The plot is suspenseful and tense, keeping me interested as the story unfolds. There were some good twists, some taking me by surprise. I’d still love to know what the point of all the bug talk was though…
I found the ending to be underwhelming as the story seemed to wind down with no true resolution. I guess I’m trying to say that it felt too open ended and too open to the reader’s interpretation. I know some readers do really enjoy that, but I am not one of them. I was hoping for something a little more concrete and tangible after all that is revealed.
THE LAST ONE AT THE WEDDING has a setting I absolutely adore – a large and secluded private estate with more secrets than meets the eye. It’s atmospheric and tense.
The characters are interesting and well-written, but not all are very likable. Frank is the main character and narrator of this story – he gives off a bit of a strange vibe, but deep down you can see he’s just a dad who wants to have a bond with his daughter and wants what’s best for her. His character is written realistically and is relatable.
The plot is suspenseful and tense, keeping me interested as the story unfolds. There were some good twists, some taking me by surprise. I’d still love to know what the point of all the bug talk was though…
I found the ending to be underwhelming as the story seemed to wind down with no true resolution. I guess I’m trying to say that it felt too open ended and too open to the reader’s interpretation. I know some readers do really enjoy that, but I am not one of them. I was hoping for something a little more concrete and tangible after all that is revealed.
The Unmaking of June Farrow by Adrienne Young
5.0
June Farrow’s family is known for their thriving flower farm and the mysterious curse that plagues their family line. June was raised by her grandmother after her mother, Susanna, fell into madness and disappeared. June started hearing and seeing things that weren’t really there about a year ago. June always knew this was coming but she’s determined to end this curse once and for all, even if it means sacrificing finding love and having a family of her own. Following her grandmother’s death, June finds a series of cryptic clues regarding her mother’s disappearance, but these clues only lead to more questions.
THE UNMAKING OF JUNE FARROW is such an intricately developed, unique, and beautiful story. I truly couldn’t get enough and loved every second of it. The writing style is alluring with a vivid and immersive world building. The fall atmosphere was exquisite.
The story is told in the POV of June in alternate timelines. Each character was well written and developed, but June’s characterization was exceptional. She’s one of the most intricately written characters that I’ve read in some time.
The plot is complex but easy to follow. I absolutely adored the ending and was utterly floored by one of the reveals – so well done! This was an excellent read and leaves me itching to read it again, as well as other books by this author!
THE UNMAKING OF JUNE FARROW is such an intricately developed, unique, and beautiful story. I truly couldn’t get enough and loved every second of it. The writing style is alluring with a vivid and immersive world building. The fall atmosphere was exquisite.
The story is told in the POV of June in alternate timelines. Each character was well written and developed, but June’s characterization was exceptional. She’s one of the most intricately written characters that I’ve read in some time.
The plot is complex but easy to follow. I absolutely adored the ending and was utterly floored by one of the reveals – so well done! This was an excellent read and leaves me itching to read it again, as well as other books by this author!
Finders Keepers by Stephen King
4.0
Morris Bellamy is livid that his favorite author, John Rothstein, hasn’t published a book for decades and because his favorite character, Jimmy Gold, has become a sellout for a career in advertising. Morris kills Rothstein and empties his safe of cash and his notebooks containing at least one more novel. Morris hides the money and notebooks before he is locked away for another crime. Decades later, Pete Saubers finds the treasure and now Pete and his family need to be rescued by Bill Hodges, Holly Gibney, and Jerome Robinson from a deranged Morris who has been released from prison after a thirty-five-year sentence.
FINDERS KEEPERS is a well-written and intriguing novel that is told in three POVs: Pete’s, Bill Hodges’, and Morris’. I enjoyed returning to the mind of Bill Hodges after reading his first book Mr. Mercedes and was eager to see how he would continue to grow alongside his newfound allies, Holly and Jerome. I can definitely say that it was fun to see them working together again!
The pacing of this story is steady with a series of intriguing, and surprising, twists. The ending had me listening with bated breath, eager to learn how it all would unfold. I can’t wait to pick up the final installment of the Bill Hodges trilogy next!
FINDERS KEEPERS is a well-written and intriguing novel that is told in three POVs: Pete’s, Bill Hodges’, and Morris’. I enjoyed returning to the mind of Bill Hodges after reading his first book Mr. Mercedes and was eager to see how he would continue to grow alongside his newfound allies, Holly and Jerome. I can definitely say that it was fun to see them working together again!
The pacing of this story is steady with a series of intriguing, and surprising, twists. The ending had me listening with bated breath, eager to learn how it all would unfold. I can’t wait to pick up the final installment of the Bill Hodges trilogy next!
We Love the Nightlife by Rachel Koller Croft
4.0
In London 1979, two women with a deep love for disco meet on the dance floor and change the course of both their lives. Nicola is a two centuries old, beautiful and brooding vampire and she can’t resist Amber’s feisty and fun-loving personality. Nearly fifty years later, an unexpected betrayal has Amber wanting out from under Nicola’s thumb. Amber learns others have done the same and ended up dead. Nicola senses that Amber is getting restless and proposes they open a nightclub. Amber agrees while plotting an escape plan.
WE LOVE THE NIGHTLIFE is so different from this author’s Stone Cold Fox (which I loved). Regardless, I still really enjoyed this one and it does hold some of the same witty and suspenseful themes.
WE LOVE THE NIGHTLIFE features a toxic female friendship and vampires. It’s set in London’s disco scene in the 1970s. The narrative alternates between Amber and Nicola’s POV in different timelines (one POV is in the present, and the other touches on a variety of years).
I really enjoyed the characters. They’re written in a way that you can’t help root for them, good or bad. I loved the toxic dynamic they share. The side characters are interesting as well and certainly serve to up the drama.
The plot is interesting and well paced. The ending wasn’t what I had expected but I loved the crafty and sly nature of the plot overall with its many layers and twists.
I’ll certainly be keeping my eye out for whatever this author will write next!
WE LOVE THE NIGHTLIFE is so different from this author’s Stone Cold Fox (which I loved). Regardless, I still really enjoyed this one and it does hold some of the same witty and suspenseful themes.
WE LOVE THE NIGHTLIFE features a toxic female friendship and vampires. It’s set in London’s disco scene in the 1970s. The narrative alternates between Amber and Nicola’s POV in different timelines (one POV is in the present, and the other touches on a variety of years).
I really enjoyed the characters. They’re written in a way that you can’t help root for them, good or bad. I loved the toxic dynamic they share. The side characters are interesting as well and certainly serve to up the drama.
The plot is interesting and well paced. The ending wasn’t what I had expected but I loved the crafty and sly nature of the plot overall with its many layers and twists.
I’ll certainly be keeping my eye out for whatever this author will write next!
The Next Mrs. Parrish by Liv Constantine
4.0
Amber has come a long way from being an invisible wallflower with her hard work bringing her up to a prominent socialite status. That doesn’t mean that there haven’t been bumps along the way. Her husband, Jackson, is in prison after a tax-evasion scandal so Amber has been free to do as she wishes in the meantime, but Jackson will soon be released from prison. Daphne has left Bishops Harbor and swears she will never go back. When one of her daughters runs away from home to be able to see her father, Jackson, Daphne agrees to return to Bishops Harbor for the summer. When a ghost from Amber’s past emerges looking for revenge, the three find unlikely allies in one another, but who is playing who?
When I saw that there was a sequel coming for The Last Mrs Parrish, I wasn’t convinced that I needed to read it. THE NEXT MRS PARISH certainly disproves that. I absolutely loved it.
THE NEXT MRS PARRISH is told in multiple POV: Daphne, Amber, Daisy Anne, and Jackson. I listened to this as an audiobook and loved that there was a narrator for each POV – so well done 👏🏻.
All of the characters are cunning, toxic, and not all are very likable. They each are holding back secrets while keeping an eye on number one (themselves). The multiple POV gives the added bonus of not knowing who is playing whom.
The plot is a wild one with many twists and turns that I didn’t see coming. There was even a twist that had me holding my breath as I waited to hear what the outcome would be. The writing style is smart and easy to follow with great pacing. Honestly, I think I liked this one more than the first book.
The ending is fantastic and satisfying… although I definitely need a third book. I am so hopeful that that is in the works!
When I saw that there was a sequel coming for The Last Mrs Parrish, I wasn’t convinced that I needed to read it. THE NEXT MRS PARISH certainly disproves that. I absolutely loved it.
THE NEXT MRS PARRISH is told in multiple POV: Daphne, Amber, Daisy Anne, and Jackson. I listened to this as an audiobook and loved that there was a narrator for each POV – so well done 👏🏻.
All of the characters are cunning, toxic, and not all are very likable. They each are holding back secrets while keeping an eye on number one (themselves). The multiple POV gives the added bonus of not knowing who is playing whom.
The plot is a wild one with many twists and turns that I didn’t see coming. There was even a twist that had me holding my breath as I waited to hear what the outcome would be. The writing style is smart and easy to follow with great pacing. Honestly, I think I liked this one more than the first book.
The ending is fantastic and satisfying… although I definitely need a third book. I am so hopeful that that is in the works!
Two Twisted Crowns by Rachel Gillig
4.0
Elspeth and Ravyn have collected most of the twelve Providence Cards, but the most important one remains to be collected: The Twin Alders. They must find it before Solstice to be able to cure the dark magic that infects the kingdom. To find this card, they must journey beyond the dangerous mist-cloaked forest that surrounds their kingdom. The only one who can lead them to where they must go resides in Elspeth’s head, and he’s no longer eager to share.
TWO TWISTED CROWNS is most definitely my favorite book within this duology. The narration alternates between Ravyn, Elspeth, and Elm. I loved the things we learn about these characters through their POVS as well as the way the story builds through them.
The plot of TWO TWISTED CROWNS builds upon what occurred in book one, ONE DARK WINDOW. I truly loved the new discoveries, the evolution of the plot, and the development of the characters. It was so beautifully written, wholly intriguing, and a story that is hard to put down. I adored the setting of this spooky and cursed kingdom – its truly magical.
I thought the development of information regarding the Providence Cards here gave a better understanding overall. The relationships shared between the characters are well written and interesting with a good development. I loved the ending of this story – it was truly everything I could have asked for.
I can’t wait to see what this author will write next!
TWO TWISTED CROWNS is most definitely my favorite book within this duology. The narration alternates between Ravyn, Elspeth, and Elm. I loved the things we learn about these characters through their POVS as well as the way the story builds through them.
The plot of TWO TWISTED CROWNS builds upon what occurred in book one, ONE DARK WINDOW. I truly loved the new discoveries, the evolution of the plot, and the development of the characters. It was so beautifully written, wholly intriguing, and a story that is hard to put down. I adored the setting of this spooky and cursed kingdom – its truly magical.
I thought the development of information regarding the Providence Cards here gave a better understanding overall. The relationships shared between the characters are well written and interesting with a good development. I loved the ending of this story – it was truly everything I could have asked for.
I can’t wait to see what this author will write next!
The Penalty by D.C. Kile
4.5
4.5 stars.
Tyler Danvers is the head football coach at La Vista University with a thriving team and his only daughter has decided to move in with him to finish college. It seems like everything is going right…until McKenzie walks into his office as a sport’s journalism student and his daughter’s new best friend. McKenzie will be shadowing Tyler and his team for the semester. Tyler shouldn’t be drawn to her, he knows he can’t have her, but their connection is undeniable.
THE PENALTY is a best friend’s dad, football romance, with an age gap of approx. 15 years. I haven’t read many age gap romances, but this one feels reminiscent of Penelope Douglas’ Birthday Girl, in terms of vibes.
I don’t know what D.C. Kile puts in her books but I have devoured every one of her books that I’ve read so far, and this one is no different. If it was permissible, I would have skipped all the things to just curl up and read this in one go.
I haven’t read many books where the FMC has my name (albeit spelled differently), so this was a little odd for me initially. I love McKenzie though – she’s smart, incredibly strong, and knows what she wants. She has an incredible support system within her family. I love the relationships she has with her parents and siblings. I also love the friendship she develops with Kylie and the friendship and relationship that she has with Tyler.
Tyler is a MMC that you can’t help but love. He’s got that rude, untouchable demeanour, but beneath that tough exterior, he’s a sweetheart with a heart of gold.
I love that THE PENALTY is told in dual POV – it’s my favorite way to read a romance. The dynamic and chemistry that blossoms between Tyler and McKenzie is so hot 🥵 and filled with tension. The spicy scenes are well placed and well written. There’s depth and an emotional punch to this story as well – keep a box of tissues nearby, you’ll definitely need it for all the tears that this story will evoke.
The ending is well done and makes for a cute conclusion to this story. There are some trigger warnings that shouldn’t be ignored, so please look those up!
I would like to thank SunnyBabePR and the author of this advanced digital copy for the opportunity to read this novel in exchange for an honest review! All opinions expressed are my own.
Tyler Danvers is the head football coach at La Vista University with a thriving team and his only daughter has decided to move in with him to finish college. It seems like everything is going right…until McKenzie walks into his office as a sport’s journalism student and his daughter’s new best friend. McKenzie will be shadowing Tyler and his team for the semester. Tyler shouldn’t be drawn to her, he knows he can’t have her, but their connection is undeniable.
THE PENALTY is a best friend’s dad, football romance, with an age gap of approx. 15 years. I haven’t read many age gap romances, but this one feels reminiscent of Penelope Douglas’ Birthday Girl, in terms of vibes.
I don’t know what D.C. Kile puts in her books but I have devoured every one of her books that I’ve read so far, and this one is no different. If it was permissible, I would have skipped all the things to just curl up and read this in one go.
I haven’t read many books where the FMC has my name (albeit spelled differently), so this was a little odd for me initially. I love McKenzie though – she’s smart, incredibly strong, and knows what she wants. She has an incredible support system within her family. I love the relationships she has with her parents and siblings. I also love the friendship she develops with Kylie and the friendship and relationship that she has with Tyler.
Tyler is a MMC that you can’t help but love. He’s got that rude, untouchable demeanour, but beneath that tough exterior, he’s a sweetheart with a heart of gold.
I love that THE PENALTY is told in dual POV – it’s my favorite way to read a romance. The dynamic and chemistry that blossoms between Tyler and McKenzie is so hot 🥵 and filled with tension. The spicy scenes are well placed and well written. There’s depth and an emotional punch to this story as well – keep a box of tissues nearby, you’ll definitely need it for all the tears that this story will evoke.
The ending is well done and makes for a cute conclusion to this story. There are some trigger warnings that shouldn’t be ignored, so please look those up!
I would like to thank SunnyBabePR and the author of this advanced digital copy for the opportunity to read this novel in exchange for an honest review! All opinions expressed are my own.
For She Is Wrath by Emily Varga
4.5
4.5 stars.
Dania was framed for a crime she didn’t commit and has been in prison for the last 364 days, plotting her revenge on Mazin, the boy responsible for her imprisonment. Mazin is also the boy she once loved, and still can’t forget. A fellow prisoner may have the key to exacting their vengeance together – a stolen djinn treasure. The two band together to make a daring escape and search for the hidden treasure. Dania enacts a plan to take down those who betrayed her family, leading her into a complicated game of cat and mouse that may risk her humanity.
FOR SHE IS WRATH is a story of revenge that embodies feminine rage and strength. It is a Pakistani fantasy retelling of The Count of Monte Cristo. Having never read The Count of Monte Cristo, I am not sure how this compares, but regardless, you’re in for a treat! The story is told in the POV of Dania, with some chapters set in the past. The world building is beautifully done with many Pakistani cultural influences, lending a rich and warm ambiance.
I adored Dania’s character – she’s brave, witty, and determined. Noor is an excellent companion to Dania, able to help keep her in check, while providing a safe and stable sounding board with excellent knowledge of djinn magic. They’re both characters that you want to root for. All the characters that are encountered are well written and feel realistic. The relationships between the characters are well developed and realistically flawed.
The plot and fantasy elements of FOR SHE IS WRATH are unique and complex without being overwhelming. I was continually intrigued and engaged by the twisty and carefully orchestrated nature of the plot. My one critique is that the pacing of the narrative dragged a bit in the 30-60% range – this could be my own issue, however. The ending was excellent and bittersweet. What an amazing debut!
I would like to thank Netgalley and the publisher, Wednesday Books, of this advanced digital copy for the opportunity to read this novel in exchange for an honest review! All opinions expressed are my own.
Dania was framed for a crime she didn’t commit and has been in prison for the last 364 days, plotting her revenge on Mazin, the boy responsible for her imprisonment. Mazin is also the boy she once loved, and still can’t forget. A fellow prisoner may have the key to exacting their vengeance together – a stolen djinn treasure. The two band together to make a daring escape and search for the hidden treasure. Dania enacts a plan to take down those who betrayed her family, leading her into a complicated game of cat and mouse that may risk her humanity.
FOR SHE IS WRATH is a story of revenge that embodies feminine rage and strength. It is a Pakistani fantasy retelling of The Count of Monte Cristo. Having never read The Count of Monte Cristo, I am not sure how this compares, but regardless, you’re in for a treat! The story is told in the POV of Dania, with some chapters set in the past. The world building is beautifully done with many Pakistani cultural influences, lending a rich and warm ambiance.
I adored Dania’s character – she’s brave, witty, and determined. Noor is an excellent companion to Dania, able to help keep her in check, while providing a safe and stable sounding board with excellent knowledge of djinn magic. They’re both characters that you want to root for. All the characters that are encountered are well written and feel realistic. The relationships between the characters are well developed and realistically flawed.
The plot and fantasy elements of FOR SHE IS WRATH are unique and complex without being overwhelming. I was continually intrigued and engaged by the twisty and carefully orchestrated nature of the plot. My one critique is that the pacing of the narrative dragged a bit in the 30-60% range – this could be my own issue, however. The ending was excellent and bittersweet. What an amazing debut!
I would like to thank Netgalley and the publisher, Wednesday Books, of this advanced digital copy for the opportunity to read this novel in exchange for an honest review! All opinions expressed are my own.