At 30% we’re on the Titanic and by 50% the Titanic is down, the so the bulk of the novel is our MC making her way from nothing in NYC.
I likeHot Take:
At 30% we’re on the Titanic and by 50% the Titanic is down, the so the bulk of the novel is our MC making her way from nothing in NYC.
I liked it. That back 50 dragged a bit, but ended very nicely. I would say 3 1/2 stars but rounding up. I was hoping a little bit for Jack and Rose reprieve, this book is not that, but like she said there are lots of ways to have a happy ending.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3.5 stars, rounding up)
The Lost Passenger dives into an immersive historical world where fate, resilience, and reinvention collide in the wake of disaster. Frances Quinn brings Elinor Coombes' story to life with a unique twist: faking her death on the Titanic to escape an oppressive aristocratic marriage, she seizes the chance to start over in New York with her son. What follows is a dramatic journey from the ruins of wealth to survival in a brand-new world as Elinor adapts to life as someone completely new.
While the pacing at times felt slow in the second half, Quinn offers a richly developed New York setting that resonates with hope and hardship alike. I would’ve loved a token Jack/Rose romance, but Quinn makes up for it with a thoughtful exploration of personal freedom and maternal devotion. Elinor’s struggle to balance survival with her love for her son is both heartbreaking and inspiring, and while this isn’t a fairytale, it does offer a satisfying conclusion on its own terms.
For fans of historical fiction that blends high stakes with introspection, The Lost Passenger is a compelling read that captures the courage it takes to forge a new life from ashes....more
I liked God of the Woods, but I didn't love it. There was something about the narrative that kept me disconnected. Could be the multiple timelines, couI liked God of the Woods, but I didn't love it. There was something about the narrative that kept me disconnected. Could be the multiple timelines, could be that it didn't get enough from any one particular character (apart from Judtya at the end), could be that a 13-year-old (view spoiler)[surviving until 18 alone in the woods for 5 years (hide spoiler)]seems a bit far fetched, could be the number of characters, could be that this one isn't built for audiobooks and should be physically read, or at least read 1/2 way before beginning on audio, could be that I just don't enjoy reading about rich people's problems, or rich people behaving badly, or Alice, but whatever it was it was just ok for me.
What happened in the end: (view spoiler)[ TJ thought of Barbara as like a daughter so she helped her escape her family and the camp and she will be living on her own in the woods until she is 18 and her parents have no legal attachment to her.
Alice went out on the lake in a boat with Bear and the boat capsized in the storm and Bear drowned, but they kind of 'hid' it from Alice because she was so drunk and drugged up - a state that she continues to live in for the rest of her life apparently. Bear was buried across the lake on orders from the family to avoid scandal.
Judtya did find Barbara on the island but left her alone. (hide spoiler)]
Told primary from three timelines: August 1975, June> 1975 (Barbara), and 14 years prior (Bear).
Timelines: 1950s: Peter Van Laar III and Alice meet and start a family 1961: Bear Van Laar’s disappearance 1962: Barbara Van Laar’s birth 1973: Louise Donnadieu dates John Paul McLellan 1975: (various months) before, during, and after Barbara Van Laar’s disappearance
There are a lot of characters here, but the main ones to make note of are: • Barbara Van Laar 13, - the girl who has gone missing in August 1975, is a Van Laar so her family owns the preserve and owns and runs the camp, the first summer Barbara has been allowed to participate • Tracy Jewell 12, - Barbara’s shy and quiet bunkmate • Louise Donnadieu 23, - the head counselor • TJ Hewitt 26, (Tessie Jo) - the camp director who took the job after her father Vic was no longer physically or mentally able • Vic Hewitt - TJ’s dad, camp director in the 1950’s • Bear Van Lear (Peter 4) - Barbara’s little brother who went missing and presumed murdered • Alice Van Laar- Barbara and Bear’s mother, married to Peter • Peter (3) Van Laar - Bear and Barbara’s Dad, Alice’s husband • Peter (2) Van Laar - Bear and Barbara’s Granddad • Carl Stoddard - gardener at the preserve • John Paul McLellan - Louise's boyfriend/fiance, rich kid and family friend of the Van Laar's • Lee Towson - camp chef • Lowell Cargill - guitar playing swoonie teen at camp, Tracy liked him • Judyta “Judy” Luptack: (pronounced Yoo-DIT-ah ) a young state trooper investigating Barbara’s disappearance
As we move forward in time from Barbara’s disappearance, we also travel forward in time from when Barbara first arrived at camp and also travel forward in time from Bear’s disappearance 14 years prior....more
In The Fox Wife, Yangsze Choo transports readers to the wintry landscape of Manchuria in 1908, where rumors of fox spirits and ancient folktales interIn The Fox Wife, Yangsze Choo transports readers to the wintry landscape of Manchuria in 1908, where rumors of fox spirits and ancient folktales intertwine with the lives of ordinary people. At its core, the novel is a mesmerizing blend of mystery, magic, and familial bonds, weaving a tale that is as captivating as it is heartwarming.
The story begins with the discovery of a young woman found frozen in the snow, shrouded in rumors of foxes and supernatural forces. Bao, a detective known for his ability to uncover the truth, is tasked with unraveling the mystery surrounding her death. As Bao delves deeper into the case, he finds himself drawn into a world of secrets and deception, where the line between reality and myth becomes increasingly blurred.
Meanwhile, a family cursed with tragedy finds their fortunes changed when a mysterious woman enters their household. As they grapple with the consequences of her arrival, they are forced to confront the possibility that she may be more than she seems—a fox spirit seeking revenge.
What sets The Fox Wife apart is its gentle and evocative storytelling, reminiscent of a tale passed down through generations. While the pace may be slow and the plot seemingly simple, the novel's true beauty lies in its ability to immerse readers in a world rich with folklore and tradition. Yangsze Choo's prose is lyrical and atmospheric, painting vivid images of snow-covered landscapes and the delicate dance between mortals and spirits.
As I read, I found myself swept up in the story. While some may find the pace leisurely, I found it to be a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
This one was good timing for me. I was ready to relax with a story, and that is what I got....more
The American Queen by Vanessa Miller is a captivating and enlightening historical fiction novel that sheds light on a lesser-known slice of American hThe American Queen by Vanessa Miller is a captivating and enlightening historical fiction novel that sheds light on a lesser-known slice of American history. Set in 1869, the novel follows the remarkable journey of Louella, a woman enslaved on the Montgomery Plantation who rises to become the queen of her own kingdom.
Louella's story is one of resilience, courage, and hope in the face of unimaginable adversity. Over twenty-four years of enslavement, Louella harbors a deep-seated hatred for those who have wronged her family. Yet, when Reverend William, whom she respects and admires, marries her and then leads the formerly enslaved people to freedom, Louella's hatred begins to transform into hope.
As William and Louella establish the Kingdom of the Happy Land, they become beacons of joy and goodness in a world filled with opposition and prejudice. Despite facing numerous challenges, they remain steadfast in their commitment to fighting for the freedom and dignity of all.
The American Queen is a must-read for fans of historical fiction, offering a compelling narrative that educates and inspires. Vanessa Miller's masterful storytelling and meticulous attention to detail breathe life into this lesser-known story of Louella Montgomery and the people of The Happy Land. This book is not to be missed, as it brings to light an important chapter of American history that deserves to be remembered and celebrated....more
If you have ever been a mad Latina, Anita de Monte Laughs Last is a must-read! You will laugh, you will rage, and you will feel crazy - but you will eIf you have ever been a mad Latina, Anita de Monte Laughs Last is a must-read! You will laugh, you will rage, and you will feel crazy - but you will enjoy it with pleasure.
Anita de Monte Laughs Last by Xóchitl González is a vibrant and provocative exploration of identity, power, and the enduring legacy of forgotten voices. Inspired by the story of Ana Mendieta, a Cuban-American artist who tragically "fell" from her 34th-floor New York City apartment, the novel immerses readers in the intertwined narratives of Anita de Monte and Raquel Toro. Set against the backdrop of 1985 New York City and 1998 College Hill (Brown/RISD), Gonzalez deftly navigates between past and present, inviting readers to confront uncomfortable truths about race, class, and privilege.
At its core, Anita de Monte Laughs Last is a testament to the resilience of marginalized voices. Through Anita and Raquel, Gonzalez challenges the traditional narratives of art history, shining a light on the overlooked contributions of women and people of color. The novel's sharp wit and incisive humor provide a counterbalance to its darker themes, offering moments of levity amidst the weighty exploration of power and representation.
The characters in Anita de Monte Laughs Last are vividly drawn, each grappling with their own ambitions and insecurities. Raquel's journey, in particular, serves as a poignant reflection of the challenges faced by those who dare to navigate spaces traditionally dominated by the elite. As she delves deeper into Anita's story, Raquel confronts uncomfortable truths about herself and her place in the world, forcing readers to reckon with the complexities of privilege and complicity.
While the novel's nonlinear narrative structure may require some adjustment, the payoff is well worth it. Anita de Monte Laughs Last is a compelling and thought-provoking read that will linger in the minds of readers long after they've turned the final page.
I will definitely be checking out Olga Dies Dreaming, her debut novel.
But Anita de Monte Laughs Last - is a very good read!...more
The Briar Club by Kate Quinn delves into the lives of several women living in a boardinghouse during a tense period in American history. The novel cenThe Briar Club by Kate Quinn delves into the lives of several women living in a boardinghouse during a tense period in American history. The novel centers around a group of women who, despite their differences, form unexpected bonds when a new resident arrives. Grace, a charming and enigmatic widow, brings a sense of unity and healing to the boardinghouse, fostering a supportive community.
Each woman in the house has her own struggles and secrets. One grapples with the loss of her promising career, another is caught up in a dangerous relationship, and a third hides emotional scars behind a composed exterior. The arrival of their new neighbor challenges them to confront their pasts and rethink their futures.
The Briar Club is not my favorite of Kate Quinn’s works, but it still offers enjoyable moments, particularly the clever and witty resolution. The characters are compelling, though their journeys can feel somewhat disjointed. I'm a fan of Quinn’s character-driven storytelling and appreciate the rich details and depth of the characters, even if The Briar Club's overall narrative lacks the usual impact....more
It's probably the best book I've read this year. All the Colors of the Dark is my second book by Chris Whitaker, and I really liked the 1st one, but IIt's probably the best book I've read this year. All the Colors of the Dark is my second book by Chris Whitaker, and I really liked the 1st one, but I loved this one. So good. So so good. The characters he creates and the lives that he composes simply live and breathe. The best of what I love about reading.
All the Colors of the Dark begins in 1975 and spans more than 20 years, when a young boy from the wrong side of the tracks and sporting an eye patch saves a wealthy family's daughter from being kidnapped, only to be kidnapped himself for a year and then miraculously saved by his best friend. The aftermath is the lives of all involved and worth every sentence and every page. It's consuming, honestly. Once you begin, you find yourself reading it in every spare moment you have.
Again, just like We Begin at the End, this novel is so much more than a Mystery/Thriller.
A worthy read - oh yes.
I'm pretty sure I highlighted everything that came out of Sammy's mouth....more
The Queen of Dirt Island by Donal Ryan is a poignant and deeply moving exploration of family, love, and the ties that bind across generations. Set in The Queen of Dirt Island by Donal Ryan is a poignant and deeply moving exploration of family, love, and the ties that bind across generations. Set in Nenagh, Tipperary, the novel delves into the lives of the Aylward women, revealing a rich tapestry of relationships, secrets, and resilience. At the heart of the story is a family that may appear chaotic and tumultuous to outsiders but is, in reality, a sanctuary of love and support. Despite the challenges they face and the betrayals they endure, the Aylward women remain fiercely loyal to each other, finding strength in their shared history and shared struggles.
Ryan's prose is both lyrical and evocative, capturing the essence of rural Ireland and the complexities of human emotions. From the quiet moments of tenderness to the explosive confrontations, each scene is rendered with sensitivity and depth, drawing readers into the intimate world of the Aylward women.
The novel spans generations in the best way possible, with all of the women under one roof. It touches on themes of loss, forgiveness, desire, redemption, and finding oneself. Ryan creates a multifaceted portrait of family life, exploring the intricacies of the mother-daughter relationship with nuance and compassion.
The Queen of Dirt Island is ultimately a celebration of womanhood, motherhood, and the enduring power of love. It is a testament to the bonds that unite us, even in the face of adversity, and a reminder that family is not just about blood but about the connections we forge and the stories we share.
Donal Ryan's The Queen of Dirt Island is a masterfully crafted novel that will resonate with readers long after they've turned the final page. With its richly drawn characters, evocative prose, and profound insights into the human condition, it is a book that celebrates the complexities of family life and the transformative power of love.
I can’t wait to read it again. Eileen and Nan are a fucking hoot!...more
The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon is a gripping historical fictional novel that breathes life into the story of Martha Ballard, an 18th-century midwifeThe Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon is a gripping historical fictional novel that breathes life into the story of Martha Ballard, an 18th-century midwife whose detailed diary entries recorded the happenings of her small community in Maine. Lawhon masterfully transforms these historical fragments into a compelling narrative, making the past vividly present for readers.
Set in 1789, the novel opens with the discovery of a new birth and a man's body recovered from the frozen Kennebec River. Martha Ballard, a midwife and healer, is called upon to examine the body and determine the cause of death. Her knowledge and insights, gleaned from her unique position within the community, lead her to suspect murder. Months earlier, she had documented a rape involving two respected townsmen—one of whom is now the frozen corpse. Despite her initial findings, a local physician dismisses her conclusions, claiming the death was accidental. Unconvinced, Martha embarks on her own investigation, determined to uncover the truth.
As the winter progresses and the rape trial draws near, Martha's pursuit of justice intensifies. Her meticulous diary entries, which include every birth, death, crime, and scandal in the town of Hallowell, become central to the case. The scandal threatens to engulf the entire community, implicating those close to Martha and forcing her to weigh her loyalties against her commitment to right and wrong.
Lawhon's portrayal of Martha Ballard is both tender and fierce. She brings to light the strength and resilience of a woman who, despite living in a time when women were expected to be silent, courageously documented her world and stood up for what was right. The novel is rich with period detail, creating a vivid backdrop against which the drama unfolds. The frozen landscapes of Maine and the close-knit, often claustrophobic, community dynamics add layers of tension and intrigue to the story.
In The Frozen River, Lawhon excels at turning pockets of history into a living, breathing narrative. She shines a spotlight on an unsung heroine, weaving a tale that is as much about seeking justice as it is about the personal courage required to defy societal norms. This novel is a testament to the power of storytelling in resurrecting forgotten voices and ensuring that the legacies of remarkable individuals like Martha Ballard are not lost to time.
This book is a must-read for fans of historical fiction and those who appreciate stories of strong, trailblazing women. Fans of Claire Fraser from Outlander will find much to love in Martha Ballard, as both characters embody a remarkable blend of intelligence, resilience, and compassion.
Setting: Kennebec River, Hallowell, Maine, Winter 1789
Martha Ballard (MC) - midwife Ephraim Ballard - Martha’s Husband * Hannah Ballard - daughter * Dolly Ballard - daughter * Cyrus - mute son, eldest son (33 years old - eldest) * Jonathan - son
Dr. Page - rival doctor from Harvard
Joshua Burgess - murdered man in the water/rapist Joseph North - Judge and rapist
Rebecca Foster - woman who was raped by Joshua Burgess and Joseph North Isaac Foster - pastor
Barnabas Lambard - officer of the court, likes Dolly Ballard Sarah White - can’t read, prospect for Cyrus, baby out of wedlock Doctor - Black midwife May Dawin - Raped by Joshua Burgess the night of the dance Sam Dawin - The real murderer of Joshua Burgess with Jonathan’s help Sally Pierce - eavesdropping housekeeper for Rebecca Foster
Betsy Clark - first pregnancy at the beginning of the novel, 3rd daughter, husband the mason? Charles Clark -
Amos Pollard - bar owner, father Abigail Pollard - bar owner, mother Moses Pollard- likes Hannah, friends with Cyrus, helps Martha with the initial autopsy of Joshua Burgess (hide spoiler)]...more
"Tomorrow Will Be Better" by Betty Smith echoes the spirit of her renowned work, "A Tree Grows in Brooklyn," yet takes a slightly grittier approach to"Tomorrow Will Be Better" by Betty Smith echoes the spirit of her renowned work, "A Tree Grows in Brooklyn," yet takes a slightly grittier approach to its portrayal of life in 1920s Brooklyn. Margy Shannon, the protagonist, embodies hope in the face of adversity, reminiscent of Francie Nolan from Smith's earlier novel. However, while both stories delve into the struggles of poverty and the pursuit of a better life, "Tomorrow Will Be Better" lacks some of the charm that made "A Tree Grows in Brooklyn" so endearing. Smith's portrayal of Margy's journey toward love and marriage is heartwarming, yet the hardships depicted feel a bit harsher and less romanticized. Despite this, the novel still captures the essence of Brooklyn with its vivid setting and explores the universal themes of resilience and optimism. ...more
If the novel was condensed to 1/2 its size it likely would have been more entertaining, but the length was just a slog. My eyes and**SKIM READ ALERT**
If the novel was condensed to 1/2 its size it likely would have been more entertaining, but the length was just a slog. My eyes and brain could not stay focused. So I skim-read and am glad I did and glad it's over.
A contributing factor to the slog, at least for me, is that right away I got this novel's name and # - like before the 5% mark. We are told that Selinda marries Rupert and from the synopsis, this is not Lawrence, the man she falls in love with. From that one can deduce that Alice is not Rupert's, but is Lawrence's. The only "surprise" the book has left is really to determine why Selinda and Lawrence didn't end up together - but that could also be determined from the synopsis since Selina is a wealthy society girl and Lawrence is a man working for his bread as a cameraman. 480 is a lot of pages for a story that has been told again and again. Not to say that remakes, retellings, or plots can't be reused, but in this novel it bored me to tears. That is what my tears were from. Not from love lost or lost changes - but boredom.
Alice is the daughter of Selina Lennox, one of the sets of post-war Londoners who call themselves The Bright Young Things. When Selina falls in love with Lawrence, she knows she can't truly commit herself to a lowly cameraman, but then she resolves to work it out with the help of one of her friends. Unfortunately, that friend suddenly dies, and Selina loses the will, and the fight and marries Rupert.
Rupert is never able to accept Alice as his own, so when Selina agrees to carry on a silly scavenger hunt for her beloved daughter instead of telling her the truth about her illness, he agrees. The grandmother is nasty toward Alice and so before all the decisions are made, Polly, Selina's maid and confidant, reaches out to Alice's father, Lawrence Weston.
Lawrence goes to Alice and Selina's death bed tells Lawrence to take and care for Alice, naturally he agrees.
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