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mags_louise's reviews
3722 reviews
Power Forward by Jodi Oliver
emotional
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
reflective
sad
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? Yes
4.5
Power Forward delivers an emotional and heartfelt story featuring single dad and hockey player Jackson, along with sports agent Hayden, who used to play hockey with Jackson and was once the love of his life.
But that was a lifetime ago, and both Hayden and Jackson are now very different people from the ones who secretly dated for three years before Jackson was traded. When Hayden, feeling scared and unworthy, pushed Jackson away, which ended their relationship in the most damaging way.
Now, after fourteen years apart, the pair finds themselves back in each other's lives when they both attend the wedding of Jackson's teammate, who also happens to be one of Hayden's clients. This event opens old wounds, leaving Hayden heartbroken and filled with regret. However, he is eager to try to work things out. And with the help of his therapist, he takes the first steps toward reconciliation.
And Jackson, though reluctant, cannot deny that his feelings for Hayden still linger, especially as Hayden shows up not just for him, but also for his two adorable children, Isabela and Ryan.
Not to mention, Hayden opens up about his struggles with mental health and chronic pain, bringing real and honest representation to these issues.
And with likeable characters, including a found hockey family and, Jackson's two cute kids, Power Forward was a super engaging read. That I honestly found hard to put down and would happily recommend to others.
My thanks to The Author Agency. All thoughts expressed are my own. ☺️
But that was a lifetime ago, and both Hayden and Jackson are now very different people from the ones who secretly dated for three years before Jackson was traded. When Hayden, feeling scared and unworthy, pushed Jackson away, which ended their relationship in the most damaging way.
Now, after fourteen years apart, the pair finds themselves back in each other's lives when they both attend the wedding of Jackson's teammate, who also happens to be one of Hayden's clients. This event opens old wounds, leaving Hayden heartbroken and filled with regret. However, he is eager to try to work things out. And with the help of his therapist, he takes the first steps toward reconciliation.
And Jackson, though reluctant, cannot deny that his feelings for Hayden still linger, especially as Hayden shows up not just for him, but also for his two adorable children, Isabela and Ryan.
Not to mention, Hayden opens up about his struggles with mental health and chronic pain, bringing real and honest representation to these issues.
And with likeable characters, including a found hockey family and, Jackson's two cute kids, Power Forward was a super engaging read. That I honestly found hard to put down and would happily recommend to others.
My thanks to The Author Agency. All thoughts expressed are my own. ☺️
Husband Missing: A completely unputdownable and heart-pounding mystery and suspense thriller by Lisa Regan
adventurous
dark
emotional
mysterious
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
Detective Josie Quinn makes a powerful return in this electrifying story. That grips you from start to finish. As Josie and her husband Noah, are busy transforming their spare room into a nursery for the baby they are eager to adopt. When Josie is called to the scene of a murder at a demonstration outside a children's hospital. Where Gina Phelan has been brutally stabbed to death, and after hours of intense investigation, she returns home, exhausted and saddened. Only to discover her house ransacked, her dog shut away, and her husband missing.
And so a frantic search kicks off, but Josie is understandably sidelined from the official investigation. Which leaves her with too much time on her hands and left contemplating a life without Noah. So she decides to pour all her energy into the Phelan case.
Yet, as she starts to delve deeper. The two investigations suddenly collide. When prints on the knife that was used to kill Gina are found inside her home.
But why would the killer of Gina Phelan target her husband?
And with a whirlwind of revelations and twists and turns. This is a story that enthrals and comes together spectacularly, leaving readers with an unforgettable ending and a thirst for more!
And so a frantic search kicks off, but Josie is understandably sidelined from the official investigation. Which leaves her with too much time on her hands and left contemplating a life without Noah. So she decides to pour all her energy into the Phelan case.
Yet, as she starts to delve deeper. The two investigations suddenly collide. When prints on the knife that was used to kill Gina are found inside her home.
But why would the killer of Gina Phelan target her husband?
And with a whirlwind of revelations and twists and turns. This is a story that enthrals and comes together spectacularly, leaving readers with an unforgettable ending and a thirst for more!
When Shadows Fall by Neil Lancaster
challenging
dark
funny
hopeful
mysterious
tense
fast-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
DS Max Craigie returns in this electrifying instalment, packed with twists and turns that will leave you breathless.
As the stakes are higher than ever before, as Max and the intrepid team once again dive headfirst into the murky waters of police corruption.
And It all begins with a distressing call from his friend Shay at Coastguard Search and Rescue, who reports a troubling spike in the number of women found dead under suspicious circumstances linked to climbing and walking accidents.
So, DI Ross Fraser, Max's superior, gets permission to re-examine these disconcerting cases. Almost immediately, their astute colleague Norma uncovers a chilling pattern: every victim shares a striking resemblance, all being blonde, and the eerie similarities go far deeper.
But just as they begin to piece together the puzzle, another call from Shay shatters the calm—the discovery of yet another body—this time, the killer has slipped up, leaving behind potential evidence that could turn the tide.
So, the team decide, with the help of wily ex-mi5 agent Barney, to set a trap. But it appears their target is two steps ahead of them and is able to strike again. This time leaving evidence that strongly implicates a policeman, igniting a flurry of questions: could he be the only one involved in this web of deception?
And as the investigation unfolds, Max and Janie find themselves ensnared in a gripping game of cat and mouse. With every revelation, they unearth the shocking motives behind these heinous crimes and the tangled connections of those wrapped up in them.
And with a perfect blend of suspense, humour, memorable characters, not to mention a baby! This story is nothing short of a page-turner. That I found myself engrossed in until 2 in the morning; it’s that captivating!
As the stakes are higher than ever before, as Max and the intrepid team once again dive headfirst into the murky waters of police corruption.
And It all begins with a distressing call from his friend Shay at Coastguard Search and Rescue, who reports a troubling spike in the number of women found dead under suspicious circumstances linked to climbing and walking accidents.
So, DI Ross Fraser, Max's superior, gets permission to re-examine these disconcerting cases. Almost immediately, their astute colleague Norma uncovers a chilling pattern: every victim shares a striking resemblance, all being blonde, and the eerie similarities go far deeper.
But just as they begin to piece together the puzzle, another call from Shay shatters the calm—the discovery of yet another body—this time, the killer has slipped up, leaving behind potential evidence that could turn the tide.
So, the team decide, with the help of wily ex-mi5 agent Barney, to set a trap. But it appears their target is two steps ahead of them and is able to strike again. This time leaving evidence that strongly implicates a policeman, igniting a flurry of questions: could he be the only one involved in this web of deception?
And as the investigation unfolds, Max and Janie find themselves ensnared in a gripping game of cat and mouse. With every revelation, they unearth the shocking motives behind these heinous crimes and the tangled connections of those wrapped up in them.
And with a perfect blend of suspense, humour, memorable characters, not to mention a baby! This story is nothing short of a page-turner. That I found myself engrossed in until 2 in the morning; it’s that captivating!
The Oath We Take by S. Cole
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
mysterious
fast-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
5.0
Scarlett Cole has truly outdone herself with The Oath We Take. This expertly crafted story is bursting with explosive passion and powerful emotion that captivates you right from the start.
As an Enforcer for the Iron Outlaws, Atom has been half in love with Ember since they were teenagers. However, being the daughter of the club president has always made her off-limits. Five years ago, Atom made the difficult choice to push her away for good, but now they find themselves at a crossroads.
As it's becoming increasingly hard for Atom to see Ember and accept that she will never be his. He knows the day will come when she meets someone, falls in love, gets married, and starts a family.
Ember, on the other hand, is fed up with the Iron Outlaws and how the club consistently overshadows her—both in Atom's life and her father's. She feels like she's always last on their priority list, and it's clear that her father is not winning any Father of the Year awards.
But when her bar comes under attack by a rival gang looking to take control of their Colorado town, the outlaws rally to support and protect her. In this critical moment, Atom and Ember can no longer deny the feelings that have lingered between them.
Yet, despite their deepening connection, Butcher's rules haven’t changed. So, they decide to keep their romance under wraps until they can demonstrate to Butcher and the rest of the motorcycle club that their relationship is serious.
However, little do they know that the danger confronting them and their town is much closer than they think. And soon, Atom will need to prove his loyalty once and for all.
And with explosive chemistry, intense tension, and nonstop danger, this story illustrates that soulmates truly do exist. Delivering a must-read MC romance that leaves you craving more. And I was particularly impressed by Ember's strength; her honesty with Atom and her father showcases what an incredible character she is.
As an Enforcer for the Iron Outlaws, Atom has been half in love with Ember since they were teenagers. However, being the daughter of the club president has always made her off-limits. Five years ago, Atom made the difficult choice to push her away for good, but now they find themselves at a crossroads.
As it's becoming increasingly hard for Atom to see Ember and accept that she will never be his. He knows the day will come when she meets someone, falls in love, gets married, and starts a family.
Ember, on the other hand, is fed up with the Iron Outlaws and how the club consistently overshadows her—both in Atom's life and her father's. She feels like she's always last on their priority list, and it's clear that her father is not winning any Father of the Year awards.
But when her bar comes under attack by a rival gang looking to take control of their Colorado town, the outlaws rally to support and protect her. In this critical moment, Atom and Ember can no longer deny the feelings that have lingered between them.
Yet, despite their deepening connection, Butcher's rules haven’t changed. So, they decide to keep their romance under wraps until they can demonstrate to Butcher and the rest of the motorcycle club that their relationship is serious.
However, little do they know that the danger confronting them and their town is much closer than they think. And soon, Atom will need to prove his loyalty once and for all.
And with explosive chemistry, intense tension, and nonstop danger, this story illustrates that soulmates truly do exist. Delivering a must-read MC romance that leaves you craving more. And I was particularly impressed by Ember's strength; her honesty with Atom and her father showcases what an incredible character she is.
Nobody's Fool by Harlan Coben
adventurous
dark
emotional
mysterious
tense
fast-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
4.5
Harlen Coben returns once again with a compelling story featuring Sami Kierce, a character we first met in the book and Netflix drama, Fool Me Once. Having left the NYPD, Sami now works as an investigator for a law firm while also teaching a criminology class at a prestigious academy adult night school.
Which is where everything shifts dramatically when a woman he recognizes as Anna walks into his classroom—someone he believed was dead for twenty-five years after their fateful encounter in Spain.
But the moment Anna locks eyes with Sami, she bolts, leaving him in a state of shock and confusion, especially since he has always believed himself to be her killer.
However, this revelation sends Sami on a relentless quest for answers. Especially as he's not one to back down when seeking the truth.
And with intertwining plotlines and expertly crafted suspense, Nobody's Fool will take you on a thrilling ride filled with twists, surprises, and edge-of-your-seat moments that only Harlen can deliver. But seriously prepare yourself for a gripping read that will keep you guessing until the very end!
My thanks to NetGalley for my copy of Nobody's Fool. All thoughts expressed are my own. ☺️
Which is where everything shifts dramatically when a woman he recognizes as Anna walks into his classroom—someone he believed was dead for twenty-five years after their fateful encounter in Spain.
But the moment Anna locks eyes with Sami, she bolts, leaving him in a state of shock and confusion, especially since he has always believed himself to be her killer.
However, this revelation sends Sami on a relentless quest for answers. Especially as he's not one to back down when seeking the truth.
And with intertwining plotlines and expertly crafted suspense, Nobody's Fool will take you on a thrilling ride filled with twists, surprises, and edge-of-your-seat moments that only Harlen can deliver. But seriously prepare yourself for a gripping read that will keep you guessing until the very end!
My thanks to NetGalley for my copy of Nobody's Fool. All thoughts expressed are my own. ☺️
Buried Dreams by Natasha Madison
emotional
hopeful
reflective
sad
tense
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
5.0
Buried Dreams returns readers to Montgavin Township for the third instalment in the Dreams series, featuring the beautifully complex relationship between Brock and Everleigh.
Once an idyllic couple with plans for marriage and family, their lives took a devastating turn following a tragic car accident that resulted in the loss of two friends and left lasting emotional scars on the survivors. In the wake of this trauma, Everleigh made the difficult choice to leave Brock, her mum and her small town behind
Now, nine years later, she finds herself returning home due to her mother’s illness, which leaves her to confront unresolved feelings from her past, particularly regarding Brock.
Complicating matters further, Brock became a father shortly after Everleigh’s departure, welcoming a daughter named Saige—an aspect of their envisioned future that Everleigh had to let go.
And their reunion is not without its challenges. As the history and hurt between them create a complex emotional landscape. With Brock deeply affected by Everleigh's absence and openly admitting Saige is the primary reason he is still alive.
However, Everleigh's return provokes them both to reflect on their past choices and acknowledge the enduring love they have for each other.
But can they each forgive the other for the decisions, they made or is the pain of their shared history too great to overcome?
And as they navigate their interactions, each encounter reveals the underlying chemistry and tension that persists between them. With an emotional intensity that is palpable, this rekindled romance is both poignant and passionate. But it's also a story that is full of love, loss, and the possibility of redemption, making it a compelling spicy read. That I would happily recommend to all.
My thanks to The Author Agency/Natasha Madison. All thoughts expressed are my own. ☺️
Once an idyllic couple with plans for marriage and family, their lives took a devastating turn following a tragic car accident that resulted in the loss of two friends and left lasting emotional scars on the survivors. In the wake of this trauma, Everleigh made the difficult choice to leave Brock, her mum and her small town behind
Now, nine years later, she finds herself returning home due to her mother’s illness, which leaves her to confront unresolved feelings from her past, particularly regarding Brock.
Complicating matters further, Brock became a father shortly after Everleigh’s departure, welcoming a daughter named Saige—an aspect of their envisioned future that Everleigh had to let go.
And their reunion is not without its challenges. As the history and hurt between them create a complex emotional landscape. With Brock deeply affected by Everleigh's absence and openly admitting Saige is the primary reason he is still alive.
However, Everleigh's return provokes them both to reflect on their past choices and acknowledge the enduring love they have for each other.
But can they each forgive the other for the decisions, they made or is the pain of their shared history too great to overcome?
And as they navigate their interactions, each encounter reveals the underlying chemistry and tension that persists between them. With an emotional intensity that is palpable, this rekindled romance is both poignant and passionate. But it's also a story that is full of love, loss, and the possibility of redemption, making it a compelling spicy read. That I would happily recommend to all.
My thanks to The Author Agency/Natasha Madison. All thoughts expressed are my own. ☺️
Deep Pockets by Nana Malone
adventurous
emotional
mysterious
tense
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
4.5
I was absolutely primed for a story featuring Lance and Morgan, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint. The tension was palpable, and the push-pull between them was masterfully executed. This is why I found myself glued to the pages until 3 AM, and now I can't wait for the next instalment!
As Lance Lakewood is Morgan's sister's best friend, and their love-hate relationship is captivating, much to the chagrin of her sister Gwen, who just wants them to get along. But there's a deeper reason for their antagonism, and when everything finally comes to a head, they share an unforgettable few hours together.
But just when Lance begins to accept that Morgan is meant to be his, a blast from his past forces him to push her away. This leaves Morgan heartbroken yet determined to move forward with her life as an aspiring design student. But her father has other plans, insisting she abandon her dreams to join the family business—a move he believes is necessary. Little does he know, Morgan is ready to fight back.
This is when she reconnects with Lance, who swoops in to save the day by offering her a place to stay and setting her up to work at her brother-in-law's company. This way, she can fund her design dreams independently.
However, being back in close proximity to Lance comes with its own set of challenges, especially since she isn't sure if she can fully trust him.
And with sizzling romance, heart-wrenching drama, and sharp humour, this story is an absolute page-turner that I wholeheartedly recommend to everyone.
My thanks to Valentine PR/Nana Malone. All thoughts expressed are my own. ☺️
As Lance Lakewood is Morgan's sister's best friend, and their love-hate relationship is captivating, much to the chagrin of her sister Gwen, who just wants them to get along. But there's a deeper reason for their antagonism, and when everything finally comes to a head, they share an unforgettable few hours together.
But just when Lance begins to accept that Morgan is meant to be his, a blast from his past forces him to push her away. This leaves Morgan heartbroken yet determined to move forward with her life as an aspiring design student. But her father has other plans, insisting she abandon her dreams to join the family business—a move he believes is necessary. Little does he know, Morgan is ready to fight back.
This is when she reconnects with Lance, who swoops in to save the day by offering her a place to stay and setting her up to work at her brother-in-law's company. This way, she can fund her design dreams independently.
However, being back in close proximity to Lance comes with its own set of challenges, especially since she isn't sure if she can fully trust him.
And with sizzling romance, heart-wrenching drama, and sharp humour, this story is an absolute page-turner that I wholeheartedly recommend to everyone.
My thanks to Valentine PR/Nana Malone. All thoughts expressed are my own. ☺️
The Prince and the Player by Nora Phoenix
emotional
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Meet Prince Tore Haakon Anders Von Glücksburg, the nephew of King Ragnar and Queen Hilda of Norway. As the fourth in line to the throne, Tore is desperate to experience what it feels like to be normal. So he and his three friends—Floris, who is fifth in line to the Dutch throne; Nils, who is fifth in line to the Swedish throne; and Greg, who is about to become the Duke of York—make a pact to convince their respective families to allow them to travel abroad undercover to study and live a normal life for a year.
This pact leads Tore on an adventure to a college in America, where he studies and plays soccer. It is here that he meets Farron, the captain of the soccer team, who despises Tore at first sight. As Farron sees Tore as perpetually happy, polite, charming and rich—characteristics that starkly contrast with him and his own struggles to pay for college and support his mother and siblings.
So to help the two young men get along, their coach decides they should share a room on away trips. However, things don't go as planned. As the tension between them quickly escalates, culminating in a passionate encounter. Which complicates their relationship even further.
Yet, realising that they need to face their feelings, Tore and Farron decide to embrace their attraction, hoping that a single encounter will help them move on. But they soon discover that their connection runs deeper than they imagined, leading both into a journey of bi-awakening that feels genuine and well-developed.
However, Tore hasn’t been completely honest with Farron, and it doesn’t take long for Farron to learn the truth. Now he must decide if he can love a prince—especially one who lives thousands of miles away.
And with plenty of tension, fun, and emotion. This is a story that is full of heart. That fans of sports and royal romances are sure to enjoy.
My thanks to Boldwood Books. All thoughts expressed are my own. ☺️
This pact leads Tore on an adventure to a college in America, where he studies and plays soccer. It is here that he meets Farron, the captain of the soccer team, who despises Tore at first sight. As Farron sees Tore as perpetually happy, polite, charming and rich—characteristics that starkly contrast with him and his own struggles to pay for college and support his mother and siblings.
So to help the two young men get along, their coach decides they should share a room on away trips. However, things don't go as planned. As the tension between them quickly escalates, culminating in a passionate encounter. Which complicates their relationship even further.
Yet, realising that they need to face their feelings, Tore and Farron decide to embrace their attraction, hoping that a single encounter will help them move on. But they soon discover that their connection runs deeper than they imagined, leading both into a journey of bi-awakening that feels genuine and well-developed.
However, Tore hasn’t been completely honest with Farron, and it doesn’t take long for Farron to learn the truth. Now he must decide if he can love a prince—especially one who lives thousands of miles away.
And with plenty of tension, fun, and emotion. This is a story that is full of heart. That fans of sports and royal romances are sure to enjoy.
My thanks to Boldwood Books. All thoughts expressed are my own. ☺️
This Moment by Kelly Elliott
hopeful
lighthearted
mysterious
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
Kelly Elliott welcomes readers to the quaint upstate small town of Moose Village for her newest captivating series.
Featuring Kian Carter, a thirty-three-year-old lawyer who has spent far too long living in the shadow of his demanding parents. Stifled by the pressures of his high-powered New York job and the relentless pursuit of billable hours,
So, when his dad interferes in his latest case, Kian decides enough is enough, and he quits. Heading home to Moose Village, his siblings, Aunt Opal and Sally. The woman who raised him and his brother Mark and sister Macy.
And Moose Village is where Kian meets mysterious new to-town Cadie. Who is working at his aunt's bakery, Batter Up, and has everyone in town questioning who she is and where she's come from.
However, all Kian sees is a beautiful woman who can bake and they soon become friends. But they have an undeniable spark. One that forces Cadie to confront a crucial choice: will she trust Kian enough to reveal her secrets, or will she remain in the shadows, starting fresh all over again?
And for me, This Moment is a delightful kickoff to a new series. That promises to keep you turning the pages! Thanks to the perfect blend of tension, heartfelt emotion, quirky characters, humour and romance.
My thanks to Greys Promo/Kelly Elliott for the opportunity to read This Moment. All thoughts expressed are my own. ☺️
Featuring Kian Carter, a thirty-three-year-old lawyer who has spent far too long living in the shadow of his demanding parents. Stifled by the pressures of his high-powered New York job and the relentless pursuit of billable hours,
So, when his dad interferes in his latest case, Kian decides enough is enough, and he quits. Heading home to Moose Village, his siblings, Aunt Opal and Sally. The woman who raised him and his brother Mark and sister Macy.
And Moose Village is where Kian meets mysterious new to-town Cadie. Who is working at his aunt's bakery, Batter Up, and has everyone in town questioning who she is and where she's come from.
However, all Kian sees is a beautiful woman who can bake and they soon become friends. But they have an undeniable spark. One that forces Cadie to confront a crucial choice: will she trust Kian enough to reveal her secrets, or will she remain in the shadows, starting fresh all over again?
And for me, This Moment is a delightful kickoff to a new series. That promises to keep you turning the pages! Thanks to the perfect blend of tension, heartfelt emotion, quirky characters, humour and romance.
My thanks to Greys Promo/Kelly Elliott for the opportunity to read This Moment. All thoughts expressed are my own. ☺️
Homecoming: A Downeast Novel by Marie Force
emotional
funny
hopeful
medium-paced
4.25
Dan and Kara are among my favourite couples from Gansett Island, so I was thrilled to see them return to Bar Harbor, Kara's hometown, for a story centred around them.
In this instalment, Dan and Kara come back when two of Kara's siblings are arrested for murder, and her mother desperately wants Dan to prove their innocence.
However, Dan is primarily concerned about his beloved wife, Kara, and although he is willing to help, he clearly states that she should not be hurt or overwhelmed with calls and texts. And if the situation becomes too much for Kara, they will head back to Gansett and the family they've created there.
But whilst Kara does have a few loved ones in Bar Harbor, particularly her grandmother Bertha and Uncle Buster, there is still a lot of emotional hurt that Marie explores beautifully throughout the story.
And at the heart, there are themes of family and the deep love Dan and Kara share, which I appreciated most, along with their playful bickering. However, I was expecting something more from the story, which is why my rating isn't higher.
In this instalment, Dan and Kara come back when two of Kara's siblings are arrested for murder, and her mother desperately wants Dan to prove their innocence.
However, Dan is primarily concerned about his beloved wife, Kara, and although he is willing to help, he clearly states that she should not be hurt or overwhelmed with calls and texts. And if the situation becomes too much for Kara, they will head back to Gansett and the family they've created there.
But whilst Kara does have a few loved ones in Bar Harbor, particularly her grandmother Bertha and Uncle Buster, there is still a lot of emotional hurt that Marie explores beautifully throughout the story.
And at the heart, there are themes of family and the deep love Dan and Kara share, which I appreciated most, along with their playful bickering. However, I was expecting something more from the story, which is why my rating isn't higher.