Honestly, one of the best books I've read this year. What a beautiful (and deeply sad) story. I'm so grateful my book club chose this novel - I'm goinHonestly, one of the best books I've read this year. What a beautiful (and deeply sad) story. I'm so grateful my book club chose this novel - I'm going to be thinking about this story for a while....more
This was one of those books you go into with zero expectations, only to come out teary-eyed and blown away.
There was so much I related to in this storThis was one of those books you go into with zero expectations, only to come out teary-eyed and blown away.
There was so much I related to in this story, from heartache to struggles to be perfect, etc., I feel as though any female in their twenties and thirties can (and will) find something to relate to in this book.
*I'll come back to write a full review on this one....more
What an incredibly well-written, important novel. Even as a nurse, I didn't know how much trauma nurses in Vietnam went through, but I am so happy to What an incredibly well-written, important novel. Even as a nurse, I didn't know how much trauma nurses in Vietnam went through, but I am so happy to know they're receiving more recognition for their service....more
What a SUPERB novel. There wasn’t a moment I didn’t enjoy reading this. Honestly. There are so many levels of depth in this from eating disorders to aWhat a SUPERB novel. There wasn’t a moment I didn’t enjoy reading this. Honestly. There are so many levels of depth in this from eating disorders to abusive relationships to coming out as LGBT. I want to rave about this book. I want everyone to read it. Right now. Alas, because it has not been released yet, I will not spoil too much for those awaiting its release.
Rose and Lily are twins, and from as early as they can remember, they have always been the “same,” as many twins believe they are when young. However, of course, things change and Thin Girls gives us a glimpse into how two people who are supposedly the same can become so different over time; how they can become different even from the exact same situations which broke them.
The entire time I sympathized so much with Rose. Having had my own eating disorder when I was younger, many of the thoughts she had were similar to those I once had, too. Therefore, this book may trigger some readers, if not careful.
I really enjoyed how everything came together. The romances. The sisterhood. Friendships. Even the ending was great. It was simple: it was that of hope.
Thank you so much to HarperCollins for this book! I can’t wait to get a physical copy when it comes out, as it is now one of my favorite novels....more
An instant favorite novel. Instant favorite author. Instant favorite everything. I honestly cannot wait to see what more Russell will write — if this An instant favorite novel. Instant favorite author. Instant favorite everything. I honestly cannot wait to see what more Russell will write — if this is how magnificently she writes her debut novel, can y'all even imagine?
My review isn’t going to do this book justice, and I also don’t want to reveal too much of what happens or the emotions you’re going to feel (confusion, anger, disgust, sympathy, etc.). But know you’re going to feel absolutely drained and broken once you finish this book.
You’re going to want to comfort Vanessa, but also shake her and try to have her see sense (I quite literally wanted to beg her at moments, because she seemed to be fading away) — but people need to realize it’s not easy for people who were traumatized as children to admit to their horrid experiences, and more-so to call it “abuse” or “trauma.” Especially if their abuser makes them believe that they “wanted” the abuse. It’s really another level of psychological trauma.
My Dark Vanessa isn’t an easy read; though, it is an important one. I think people should swallow their discomfort to go on and read the book. There’s a lot to be learned in this book. About victims and how trauma continues to affect them even 10+ years later. About families watching their loved ones be victimized and not knowing how to approach it. And even about the abusers and their own psychological process — how they make everything seem normal in their heads.
It’s a wild ride, and I wouldn’t change a single thing about this book. ...more
Absolutely outstanding. Definitely one of the best books I've read in 2020.Absolutely outstanding. Definitely one of the best books I've read in 2020....more
Oh, yes. This was phenomenal and brilliantly written — quite possibly the most perfect nonfiction book I’ve read to date. There wasn’t a moment I was Oh, yes. This was phenomenal and brilliantly written — quite possibly the most perfect nonfiction book I’ve read to date. There wasn’t a moment I was bored; I was always looking for time throughout my day to continue listening. I say listening because this was my first audiobook, and let me tell you, as someone who used to be against audiobooks, I loved this. It made my daily six-mile walk/jog so much more enjoyable than they already were!
Important side note: This audiobook wouldn’t be as good if not for the reader Will Damron, so claps for him, too.
The issues surrounding Theranos and Elizabeth Holmes is something I've followed throughout the years starting in 2015. Recently, I even watched last month's HBO documentary on Holmes because I can’t seem to get enough of this story. I can't seem to understand what she was thinking, or rather, not thinking. As someone going into medicine, I understand that patients health comes first. Always. I can't fathom how Elizabeth didn’t see the seriousness of what she was doing. She was literally putting people in harm's way by sending false blood test results to doctors and patients.
After this novel and from what I already know, Elizabeth Holmes does sound like a straight-up sociopath, as John Carreryrou says himself. But if you’re interested in hearing from more sides (investors, lawyers, former employees) regarding Theranos, then I urge you to read this book. And even if you’re not interested in this story, Carreryrou’s investigative skills and layout skills are beyond perfect. So perfect you'll need to finish reading, and quickly. Everything is laid out exceptionally; everything flows well. So not only is this one hell of a story, but it’s written by one hell of a writer. What’s not to like? Except, you know, how actual human lives were put in harm’s way because of Holmes and her obsession to “change the world” and become a billionaire. But hey, I guess the risks were worth the rewards to her, even in the end. She's never once apologized to date. I don't think she ever will....more
Oh my freaking fruit-loops this was amazing! Part of me wants to cry and dance and sing — I’m going through too many emotions right now. Thi 4.5 / 5 ~
Oh my freaking fruit-loops this was amazing! Part of me wants to cry and dance and sing — I’m going through too many emotions right now. This book, no, this series is phenomenal. As someone who adores stories/novels/plays revolving around magic, mystical characters, everything and anything forbidden … the Caravel series was an absolute delight.
And now because of how amazing this was, I’m going through a serious book withdrawal. So yay for me! Therefore, even though reading this was worth it (it really, really was), I hope I don’t fall into a reading slump. I just got out of one, darn it.
Okay, okay. Onto the good stuff. But first, can I get a HELL YES for Scarlet finally stepping up in this book? I mean, I felt connected to her character from book one because she was determined and cautious, which is something I think many characters lack. But I also know many of you who read this series thought she was too timid in book one. I didn’t agree with that until I read book two in Tella’s perspective, and I had to admit to myself that her daring and cunning personality was much more fun that Scarlet’s. But! No two people can be alike, which made Scarlet’s act of bravery all the more meaningful in this book. She’s grown, that one.
Flippin’ Dante. Or should I call him (view spoiler)[Legend? (hide spoiler)] I’ll call him Dante for the sake of the review. However, I’m thrilled with the path he chose to take. I felt a little teary-eyed when I read his final chapter; I love him. There’s so much more I wish I could have learned about his character, but I’ll leave it up to my imagination since the isn’t a book four.
On a side note, I’m secretly hoping a book four will be announced — but I know that won’t happen. I wish it would. I want more of these humorous, devoted, wonderful characters.
On a side, side note, is it bad that I actually feel bad for Jacks? His character was/is crazy, but I do feel for him.
Really, everything about this series is enchanting. Book one hooked me with its magic and mystery. Book two made me fall in love with Tella and Dante. Book three concluded everything perfectly; I’m just sad to see it all come to an end. It’s always bittersweet when a series you love come to a satisfying end because even though it ended well, it’s still over....more
This is one of those books that takes you by complete and utter surprise. I mean, I started this with zero expectations; if it wasn't forActual: 4.5/5
This is one of those books that takes you by complete and utter surprise. I mean, I started this with zero expectations; if it wasn't for the cover and title that grabbed my attention, I would've never read Normal People. I probably wouldn't have heard of it, to be honest. I'm not sure what possessed me to read it so quickly after buying it either. I have hundreds of books to read, and yet, I chose to read this one first.
It must've been some sort of fate, because this was so incredible; so entirely different from what I normally read; so raw and realistic ... phenomenal.
The characters in this are all broken and lost, but in their own individual ways. It's hard not to connect to at least one character/storyline, or to look at one and think, "I know/knew someone like that."
The whole Connell and Marianne tug and pull relationship was almost too painful for me to watch unfold. And while I am pleased with how the novel ended, I'm also upset, because I'm sure that tug and pull with continue on forever. That's just their strange dynamic. Sad. Detached. Two lonely and lost people trying to find their way.
Also, for those of you who don't know, this book is written without quotations when characters speak; however, don't let that discourage you. I wasn't too fond of it at first, but I realized I didn't notice it around chapter three.
I highly recommend this one! Especially for those who may feel lost or discouraged within their life; I think there are more people who feel that way than most realize. Don't feel like that doesn't make you "normal." You're more normal than you know....more
I was super anxious going into this one. With all the mixed reviews, and my favorite blogger basically telling everyone not to read this, I a**4.5/5**
I was super anxious going into this one. With all the mixed reviews, and my favorite blogger basically telling everyone not to read this, I almost listened.
Almost.
Luckily, I didn't - and after months of reading average books (we've all been here), I finally got to read a brilliant book. And yes, that "brilliant book" is most definitely this one.
As I'm sure most of you know, this book is loosely based on the Manson Cult and the whole "story" behind their group, leading up to the notorious killings. The story unfolds through fourteen-year-old Evie's eyes, as she stumbles upon their "group" during a rough patch with her family. Upon seeing them, she is mesmerized by the girls, and wants nothing more than to get closer to the "pretty girl" - Suzanne. To her luck, she runs into them again, except this time, they allow her to join them. And pretty much upon arrival, she is welcomed by everyone - growing especially fond of Suzanne.
Now, when I found out that Evie was only fourteen, and that she was doing all sorts of terrible acts, I was appalled. Then again, I was also intrigued, in a sick sort of way. I needed to know what would happen next. It was almost like I was being brainwashed, just like everyone else was in their "group." It was incredibly interesting - and disgusting, don't forget that.
Not only was the story twisted, dark, and disturbing, but it also had strong feminist undertones. There were a bunch of lines I wanted to underline (but because I don't write in my books, that's that). Regardless, the amount of times I was reading and making connections to something happening to Evie, or simply agreeing with her thoughts about the world, were endless. So, even though I'm not necessarily a feminist, I loved making those connections.
Overall, this novel took me forever to read (thank you, college); however, that does not mean it was slow or anything like that. No. Truthfully, it's incredibly through-provoking. Honestly, I'm quite shocked it's rated so poorly. I read through some of the reviews and it seems like a lot of people were complaining about the writing style? Well, to me, I thought it was poetic and lovely. Seriously, I had no issues with the writing whatsoever. If anything, the beginning was the most "confusing," but if you keep reading, you fall right into Cline's melodic writing style. I promise!...more
The fact that I STILL think about this book every other week really makes me to want to label this as my #1 favorite book. It's literally the best2019
The fact that I STILL think about this book every other week really makes me to want to label this as my #1 favorite book. It's literally the best thing I have read up until this point. What a mind-blowing novel. ________________________________________
Re-read in 2018
Still flipping amazing. I. Love. This. Book. ________________________________________ 5/5 Stars!
EDIT: I read this about two months ago, but I'm still thinking about it! Therefore, I bumped it up half a star, and changed my overall rating to 5 stars. This is seriously such an amazing novel.
REVIEW: THIS WAS AMAZING! I swear, I took forever to read this (thank you, college), however, every time I picked it up, I could not get enough of it. The writing and characters were just superb, and I'm honestly quite upset to have finished this. 'Cause what else is going to hold my attention as well as this novel did?
I've never read Donna Tartt's The Goldfinch (her most known work), but I'm going to have to pick it up now. Though, I do wonder if that novel will stand a chance against this one. One of the main reasons this novel held my attention was because it wasn't a "who done it" book, but rather a, "why done it." I'm not too fond of mystery novels, however, there was something so sinister and addictive about this book that I really didn't mind the mystery aspects. They were quite wonderful, and only added sparingly.
I understand that some of you might pick this book up after my review, and some of you might not (your loss!). But if you do decide to give it a chance, I hope you will appreciate the descriptive and lovely writing that Tartt uses to slowly and steadily pull the reader in. I know there are some of you who won't have the patience for this novel, and that upsets me. However, I really think everyone should give it a chance. These characters - though extremely flawed and messed up - are the sort you will never forget.
Honestly, this story is one you'll never forget. It's corrupt and terrible and nonsensical, but oh so addictive.
Overall, Donna Tartt has just become an instant-buy author for me. I'm absolutely in love with her writing and her characters, and I cannot wait to read more of her work!...more
I am feeling extremely raw after reading this. This book is so wonderful, but also so terrible and heartbreaking. I swear, I don’t think I’ve felt thiI am feeling extremely raw after reading this. This book is so wonderful, but also so terrible and heartbreaking. I swear, I don’t think I’ve felt this many emotions from a book in a long, long time. It made me feel happiness, sadness, rage, and love — sometimes all at the same time.
It’s funny how I ordered this book purely because of its cover and because it was about Alaska (I’m in a random stage where I want to move there). And now it’s one of my all-time favorite novels. Funny how these things work.
The Great Alone begins with the image of a wonderful little family: Cora, Ernt, and Leni. Sure, there are underlying problems but every family has problems, so you don’t think much about them. That is, until the story continues and you begin finding out bits and pieces of things you didn’t have a clue were going on.
Segueing away from that for a moment, the main character (for the most part), Leni, is an absolute joy. The novel starts off when she is thirteen and ends with her being twenty-five, so you get to see her grow tremendously. Regardless, Lori is not your average thirteen-year-old. She is smart and realistic, and I was often shocked by her interpretations of the world around her.
Her mother, Cora, otherwise known as “Mama,” is an awesome character, too. I really liked her, flaws and all, because of how much she loved Leni and would do anything for her (even though it doesn’t seem like that at first - but trust me, it’s there). Not only that, but the mother and daughter bond that Leni and Cora share is so similar to my mama and I, that I loved this book even more for their bond. That’s not to say that my father is like Ernt — he’s not — but I’ve always been closer to my mama.
All the other characters: Ernt, who I don’t like, for good reason, but I sympathize with because of what he’d gone through in war; Large Marge, who is hilarious and an ex-lawyer (that surprised me!); Mr. Walker, who I’m still upset Cora didn’t end up with because he’s a sweetheart; Matthew, who I freaking love and he had almost, almost made me cry when we had that accident. And of course, all the other characters were wonderful and realistic — but these were the ones that left a lasting impression.
All of the descriptive scenery and realistic dialogue and believable characters just goes to show you how good of a writer Kristin Hannah is. As a lawyer turned writer, I wouldn’t expect any less. People might be surprised to know, but lawyers have to be really good writers!
Honestly, Hannah has become an instant buy author for me. Just like that. I have another one of her books in my room, which will definitely be read sooner than later now because I swear her writing and storytelling is brilliant and oh so heartbreaking.
Overall I tried not to spoil too much in my review, because half of this book's charm comes from all of its twists and turns. Seriously, I cannot recommend this book enough. It won’t disappoint you — but it may break your heart....more
Because I still think about this book almost a year after reading it, I'm moving it to my favorite's shelf. I think it's deserving ther*Update - 2018*
Because I still think about this book almost a year after reading it, I'm moving it to my favorite's shelf. I think it's deserving there, right alongside The Secret History and Vicious. ___________________________________
4.25-4.5/5 Stars
This was breathtakingly brilliant. Honestly, if this book isn't on your to-be-read list, it needs to be. It starts off shaky (at least it did to me), however, once it grabs your attention - it will not let go.
Now, where do I even start? Should I start with how layered these characters are? (Though, I will say, I noticed the female characters could've used more depth). Should I begin with how flawlessly Rio tied in multiple Shakespearean plays into the actual plot? Or maybe, I should talk about the mystery/tension intertwined with everything that occurs throughout this novel?
You know what?
I'm going to ramble.
So. This story revolves around 7 students who are majoring in Shakespearean Studies & Acting (something like that) - and from the beginning you realize that this degree and school is no joke. It's competitive. Serious. Cut throat. Which makes it all the more intriguing. It wouldn't be half as good of a story if it took place at a "nicer school."
Getting right to it, I loved how every character had something going for them. Though, at first, it was difficult remembering who was who, and it sometimes bothered me that I couldn't picture anyone. However, those things hardly deterred me from continuing (surprisingly). The plot and depth of the characters made up for everything else. So don't be fooled and think that these characters are just your "shallow" sort of college students. In some ways, they might be. However, they're much more.
Something else that I LOVED, was the strange/strong relationship between James and Oliver. When I was reading, I kept on wondering why the heck I wanted them to end up together. Quite badly, too. I mean, by all appearances they were just friends. Plus, Oliver was head-over-heals for Meredith. And yet, I couldn't help but feel that while he lusted after Meredith, he had a very real passion for James. Just like Oliver himself says (towards the end), he himself had no idea what he and James were. Whatever it was, it was bloody brilliant.
Unfortunately, this book didn't end up in my "all time favorites." I thought it would have. Really. However, when I looked at everything, there were some dull spats throughout the story. Plus, I couldn't ignore how most of the male characters had layered personalities, whereas the female characters seemed bland. (Except perhaps Meredith, she played a big role - but in a stereotypical way).
Overall, I feel like I've given away too much - and not enough. I wish I could ramble more, but I feel like I'm not doing the story justice. I'll probably comes back and re-review this.
This is easily still one of my favorite books, ever. It's hard for me to find much that I don't like about it. EitherReread December 2018-January 2019
This is easily still one of my favorite books, ever. It's hard for me to find much that I don't like about it. Either way, here's to book two which comes out in less than a week!
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∿4.75/5∿
This was absolutely lovely and magical. Ya'll, the hype surrounding this book is all very real. Please do yourself a favor, sit down with a large cup of tea/coffee and READ THIS.
Where do I even begin? My mind is still reeling from all of the twists and turns! Holly Black really outdid herself with this one, you guys. She really did.
The characters were amazing. Not all of them were, but the ones that had to be were brilliant. I mean, I love Holly Black for making Jude the way she was. As a girl with a heart who cares for her family and whatnot, but can also kill you and make serious threats. I mean what?! Are we finally getting strong and evil and cunningly awesome females? I seriously hope so! And, of course, I don't condone villainous people, but if it's in a book, I freaking love reading from their perspective. And let me tell you, Jude isn't that nice girl next door. She's absolutely ruthless.
Then there's Cadan. I saw someone write an update saying that "Bad guys turned to good guys is so overused," when describing this book and Cadan. I guess I agree with them, in a way. However, when it's done well, like the way Black made you despise Cadan in the beginning and then come to love him, is just magic in its own way. Seriously! I knew I should hate him but I couldn't stop loving him.
I just realized this review has a million exclamation marks and is probably one of the worst reviews I've ever written. Oh well. I can't help myself. This was too good, and I can't coherently put words together.
But honestly, if any of ya'll love magic, deception, spies, forbidden love, a kick-butt heroine, beautiful people, folklore, etc... Then, this is a book for YOU!
Overall, I don't know what you're still doing here, 'cause you really ought to be out there getting into that horribly sad, yet flawlessly written, prologue. Go on. You know you want to....more
Re-read in 2019: I still freaking love this book. It's incredibly magical. _________________________________________ **Warning: this text may contain spRe-read in 2019: I still freaking love this book. It's incredibly magical. _________________________________________ **Warning: this text may contain spoilers** ★ 4.5 / 5 ★
What a magical, whimsical, lovely second book to this series! Stephanie Garber has a story-telling gift and ya’ll are missing out if you haven’t already read Caraval.
As someone who loved Caraval, I was nervous to start Legendary, because often times I’m disappointed by the sequel in a series—well, folks, that wasn’t the case here! This book was so marvelous that I didn’t mind reading in Tella’s perspective (I say that because I loved Scarlett’s POV); in fact, I might even say that I preferred it. But honestly, I love both Scarlett and Tella; so I’m fine reading in either of their perspectives. It’s books like these that make me wish I had a sister.
Because I feel like I haven’t said this enough to my friends today (the ones that would listen): Legendary seriously blew my mind. The writing, of course, was flawless and smooth; it’s practically like butter for your mind (without the unhealthiness).
The characters, too, are mysterious and magical and wonderful. I loved getting to know more about Caraval’s actors/actresses; it was a real ride.
Okay, so, ehem, Dante is mine (sorry, Tella). I already mentioned that in one of my updates, but I’m repeating myself so people don’t forget. I mean, I liked him in Caraval but I loved him in Legendary. He’s dark and gritty and a walking secret; I can’t wait to learn more about him in book three!
Surprisingly, Jacks is a close second, after Dante (of course). When he was introduced to Tella I sensed he was purposefully being presented as this novel's cruel character. I say “purposefully” because when Jacks was introduced I could tell Stephanie Garber was trying to make the reader dislike him … which usually means you’ll end up loving him. So even though I expected to end up liking Jacks, I was pleased how naturally it happened. I also think he’s just playing the villainous role and is good/caring inside. I'd still date him bad or good though.
For anyone curious, I took a half-star off because there were some things I suspected early on, which ended up being right. I was hoping it would be a little harder to put things together.
Overall, there is so much more I want to write about (like Julian and Scarlett and their cute relationship…and all the other thingssss that were revealed), but because I don’t want to risk giving away more than I might’ve, I’ll stop here. But, let it be known, this is a phenomenal series and I can’t wait for book three....more
Hands down, this has to be one of the most lovely and lyrically written novels I’ve read, ever. Everything about The Bear and the Nightinga 4.75 / 5 ~
Hands down, this has to be one of the most lovely and lyrically written novels I’ve read, ever. Everything about The Bear and the Nightingale is melodic and mystical — even the scenes ridden with death and fear were somehow written in a mesmerizing tune. This book was addicting and anytime I had to put it down, all I could do was think about picking it back up.
To many, this might be too “slow” of a book — but I urge you to give it a chance. Give it at least 100 pages. The slow tempo really aids itself to the story and writing, and anything quicker would have taken away from the beautiful writing. Remember, all good things come to those who wait! So wait for that moment you realize you’re hooked and can’t stop reading. I promise it’ll happen.
I’ve never read Russian tales, though I have read many Polish ones, so this story sort of felt like something I read in Polish as a child. I guess European literature and folktales have a lot of fear and whatnot in them … but also a lot of magic and intrigue. Regardless, I loved Vasya. Whether or not she was written as a strong female lead in the original Russian tale, I’m not sure nor do I really care, because I adored her in this novel. Her fearlessness when it came to doing what was right and always sticking to what she loved and desired was admirable. I can only hope to become as brave and wise as Vasya. She’s definitely unique when it comes to “typical” YA characters, which was refreshing.
With book two lying next to me, I can only hope there will be more of Morozko! I want to know more about his story and why he is so taken with Vasya. Really, I just want to see where the story goes, because I feel like this book didn’t have a lot going on (which is why I couldn't give it a full five stars, since some parts were a little too dull for me) — but now that the characters have been introduced and Vasya seems to know what she has to do, I can’t wait to see where book two will go!...more
There's always pressure when you reread one of your favorite books. But! This is still one of my favorite books, to date! It's magRe-read in June 2018
There's always pressure when you reread one of your favorite books. But! This is still one of my favorite books, to date! It's magnificent and magical. I can't wait to start book 2 in this next hour! _____________________________________ 4.75 stars!
WOW. YOU CANNOT JUST LEAVE ME HANGING LIKE THAT, STEPHANIE GARBER! I NEED THE NEXT BOOK.
On a serious note, this book you guys. This book. I literally thought I knew what was going on as soon as I started reading - in the back of mind mind I kept thinking, "Oh, this and this is going to happen" ... BUT I WAS SO WRONG. Mostly everything that I thought, was wrong.
At the end of the novel I was literally stunned by what I'd just read. Although the writing and scenery descriptions could've been better, everything else that transpired in this amazing/imaginative/beautiful story made up for it. This is unlike anything I've ever read, and if you love stories that keep you thinking until the very end, have stunning magic, endless trickery, and broken characters - this is for you.
Great job on your first novel, Stephanie - it's going to be loved by many!...more
HOLY HELL. WHAT JUST HAPPENED!? Thank goodness I have the next book, because that cliffhanger killed me. But wow, I should just let this book sink in HOLY HELL. WHAT JUST HAPPENED!? Thank goodness I have the next book, because that cliffhanger killed me. But wow, I should just let this book sink in for a minute - because it was simply amazing.
This book almost destroyed me. I wish I was joking, but I’m not. I have this nagging hollow feeling inside of me as I write, and there’s nothing but tThis book almost destroyed me. I wish I was joking, but I’m not. I have this nagging hollow feeling inside of me as I write, and there’s nothing but this incredibly heart-wrenching book to blame (or thank) for it.
The Kitchen House immediately surprised me. I mean, it surprised me in every way possible. Truth be told, I never knew this book existed! The sole reason I came across this novel was because of my University's English Studies library. It’s a library (or small shelf, to be exact) where you can take books and leave them — I don’t make it a habit to look there because the books don’t tend to be “good.” Typically, people don’t give away books they’ve enjoyed. At least, I don’t. That’s why you can excuse me for going into this with low expectations, even though I quite liked the cover. Thank goodness for the cover; honestly, if it wasn’t for me finding it as pretty as I did, I wouldn’t have gotten the pleasure to read this.
I promise this book will hook you. It’ll hook you with Grissom’s lovely prose, but you’ll hold on because of the characters and heartbreak and hope for better times to come. It’s the hope for happiness and freedom that’ll push you to keep on reading until it’s far past midnight (as it is now) … and it’s not until you’re finished with the novel that you’ll want more. You’ll want more because you feel cheated and wrecked. Cheated, because all of that hoping and praying for at least one character to find happiness never comes (in my case I was really rooting for Lavinia and Will). Wrecked, because the “author’s note” at the end reminds you that these events actually happened. Sure, the characters don’t exist, but the hardship and pain did. And that breaks my heart.
I’m exhausted as I write this but honored to have read this novel. I’ve already ordered the “next” book to The Kitchen House, continuing with Jamie’s story. I do wonder how he’ll move forward after everything he’s seen, learned, and done. I also cannot wait to read more of Grissom’s writing. Her writing and storytelling is truly some of the best I’ve come across; to make a story I wasn’t even interested in one of my all time favorites is not an easy task.
The Kitchen House is going to become a book I recommend endlessly. To those of you who enjoy reading Historical Fiction, I say: Read This Book. Do yourself that favor. But I warn you, these characters and their stories will break your heart — but also fill you with hope....more
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