takara_reads's reviews
111 reviews

Hits Different by Lizzie Huxley-Jones, Tasha Ghouri

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? It's complicated

4.0

“Hits Different" by Lizzie Huxley-Jones and  Tasha Ghouri is a heartfelt novel that excels in representing disability and non-binary identity. It follows Cassie, a dancer with a disability, on a journey of self-esteem and passion. Cassie's love for dancing is vividly portrayed, showcasing how it empowers and liberates her. 

The story also explores Cassie's realization of her worth, culminating in her decision to leave a dismissive partner. This adds depth to the narrative, highlighting the importance of self-respect and breaking free from toxic relationships. 

Overall, "Hits Different" is an inspiring read, celebrating self-discovery and the power of passion with authentic and thoughtful representation. 

A Love Letter to Whiskey: 5th Anniversary Edition by Kandi Steiner

adventurous challenging dark emotional funny hopeful reflective sad 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

4.25

“A Love Letter to Whiskey" by Kandi Steiner is a raw, emotional journey through the complexities of love, timing, and personal growth. From the first page, I was captivated by the genuine connection between the protagonists, B and Jamie. Their chemistry is palpable, their interactions electric, and their deep-seated bond undeniable. 

What stands out most in this novel is the authenticity of their relationship. Steiner crafts their connection with such care and detail that you can feel the intensity of their emotions. Whether they are friends, lovers, or anything in between, their bond transcends the typical romance trope and delves into the realm of soulmates. It's this depth that kept me turning the pages, eager to see where their journey would take them next. 

However, the story is not without its challenges. Timing, as it often is in life, is the biggest antagonist in B and Jamie's love story. Just when it seems like they might finally find their happy ending, life throws another curveball, pulling them apart. This constant push and pull can be heart-wrenching to witness, but it's also what makes their story so relatable and realistic. The frustration of near misses and the agony of opportunities lost to bad timing will resonate with anyone who has ever experienced the bittersweet nature of love. 

One aspect of the novel that I found complex and thought-provoking was the theme of infidelity. Steiner does not shy away from the messy, uncomfortable realities of human relationships. While I typically struggle with narratives that involve cheating, Steiner handles it with a nuanced touch, exploring the motivations and emotions behind the characters' actions. It adds a layer of depth to the story, making it not just a love story but a tale of personal growth, mistakes, and redemption. 

In conclusion, "A Love Letter to Whiskey" is a poignant and compelling read that will take you on an emotional rollercoaster. The genuine connection between B and Jamie, coupled with the ever-elusive right timing, makes for a captivating narrative that is hard to put down. Even with its darker themes, such as infidelity, the novel remains a powerful exploration of love's complexities. For anyone looking for a romance that digs deep into the heart's true desires and struggles, this book is a must-read. 

The Write Place by Allie Samberts

challenging emotional funny hopeful sad tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

As a fellow teacher, "The Write Place" by Allie Samberts spoke to me on a deeply personal level. The novel brilliantly captures the joys and challenges of our profession, showcasing the profound impact educators can have on their students' lives. Samberts' portrayal of the teaching environment is both heartwarming and inspiring, reminding me of the reasons I entered this field in the first place.

One of the standout aspects of the book is its positive depiction of teaching. The protagonist, Mac, is dedicated and passionate, embodying the best qualities of an educator. Through her interactions with students and colleagues, the novel highlights the fulfillment that comes from fostering a love for learning and the meaningful relationships that develop in the classroom.

On the romantic front, Daniel is an incredibly romantic character. His gestures and unwavering support for Mac are truly endearing. Mac's journey to find love felt well-deserved, given her dedication and the challenges she faced. The fact that Daniel dedicated his book to her adds a beautiful and touching layer to their relationship, making their love story all the more special.

The novel's plot was unexpectedly engaging, filled with genuine emotion and relatable experiences. Samberts' writing kept me hooked from start to finish, and I found myself eagerly turning the pages to see how Mac and Daniel's story would unfold.

I was thrilled to discover that there will be a follow-up focusing on Jenny's story. Given how much I enjoyed "The Write Place," I can’t wait to see what Samberts has in store for her next. This book is a must-read for anyone who appreciates a well-crafted love story and the intrinsic rewards of teaching. Highly recommended!

Crushes, Friends, & Us by Willa Drew

fast-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? It's complicated

4.0

“Crushes, Friends, & Us" by Willa Drew is a delightful young adult novel that perfectly captures the essence of teenage life, friendship, and first love. The long-awaited romance between Sarah and Nick is handled with care and authenticity, making their eventual relationship a satisfying and heartwarming relief for readers.

The dynamic of their filmmaking group adds an exciting layer to the story. Watching the creative process and seeing their film come together is fascinating and showcases the characters' dedication and passion.

Overall, this book is a charming and engaging read, blending romance and creativity in a way that resonates deeply with young adult readers.

It Happened One Summer by Tessa Bailey

medium-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

5.0

"It Happened One Summer" by Tessa Bailey is a charming contemporary romance that follows Piper Bellinger, a glamorous L.A. socialite sent to a small Washington town after a scandal. There, she meets Brendan Taggart, a gruff sea captain who becomes an unlikely match for her. Bailey's writing is witty and engaging, with well-developed characters and sizzling chemistry. Piper's transformation and the heartfelt love story, set against a vividly depicted small-town backdrop, make this novel a delightful summer read. It's a perfect blend of humor, romance, and self-discovery.

The Same Earth by Kei Miller

3.0

The Wedding Menu by Letizia Lorini

medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

“The Wedding Menu" by Letizia Lorini tells a beautiful yet heartbreaking love story marred by years of miscommunication. The shocking deceit of the father adds a dramatic twist, deeply affecting the family.

The novel's food theme is a standout, with vivid descriptions of French cuisine enriching the narrative. The wedding menu symbolically ties the story together, making it a feast for both the heart and senses.
Overall, this poignant novel blends romance and culinary delight, making it an unforgettable read. The food theme was particularly enjoyable and added a unique flavor to the story.

Bridesmaid for Hire by Meghan Quinn

medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.0

“Bridesmaid for Hire" by Meghan Quinn is a charming romantic comedy that follows Maggie, a professional wedding planner who excels at managing wedding chaos but struggles with her own love life. Quinn's writing is witty and engaging, filled with humor and heartwarming moments. The romance between Maggie and Brody is believable and endearing, while the wedding industry setting adds a unique and vivid backdrop. With well-drawn characters and a perfect blend of humour and emotion, "Bridesmaid for Hire" is a delightful read for fans of romance and weddings.

Wild Love by Elsie Silver

medium-paced

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

5.0

Elsie Silver’s "Wild Love" is a captivating romance set in a charming small town, where the protagonist’s journey of self-discovery and healing unfolds with authenticity and depth. The chemistry between the main characters is palpable, and their relationship develops organically, providing a satisfying emotional arc.

Silver’s lyrical prose and sharp dialogue enhance the storytelling, vividly bringing to life both the emotional and physical settings. The novel explores themes like forgiveness and vulnerability with a deft touch, avoiding clichés and offering genuine character growth.

The Third Baseman by Lulu Moore

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

4.0

"The Third Baseman” by Lulu Moore offers a captivating journey into the world of baseball, blending the thrill of the game with the complexities of human relationships. Moore’s vivid storytelling and well-developed characters make for an engaging read from start to finish. The protagonist's struggle with winning back their only true love adds depth to the narrative, making it more than just a sports story. Whether you're a baseball fan or not, this novel is sure to hit a home run with readers.