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I'm Shay! I’m a cookbook author, lifestyle blogger, travel agency owner, wife and mama who loves making every day special for my family.

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Mix & Match Mama

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January 2020 Book Review


It’s my JANUARY BOOK REVIEW!!!

Eeeeeeeks!

Okay, I’m really excited about today and also a little nervous because all of the books I read this month were reader recs…and I didn’t love a few of them (please don’t be mad).  January is always a weird month for my book review because it’s actually like half of December and all of January (since I did my December Book Review before the holidays), so that means, more books than normal were read…a whopping SEVEN!

I’m kicking off 2020 with…

…The Giver of Stars by Jojo Moyes.

Okay, deep breaths.

Um, I typically like Jojo Moyes books.  I don’t know that I ever LOVE them, but I like them.  I liked this one too.  I would venture to say that this was the number one suggested book by you ladies at the end of last year, and I liked it.  I didn’t love it, but I liked it.  I thought the plot of the story was excellent, and I really enjoyed the characters, but the book was a bit…long.  Now, I know that long books allow for a lot of character development, but I guess I didn’t feel that as much as I did…long.  I liked this book when I was reading it, but didn’t get super excited to pick it back up (I always kind of had to make myself).  So…am I the only one?  Do you all hate me now? Maybe I should have reviewed these in reverse order as many of you have probably stopped reading.  (Eeks!)  For those of you who don’t know, this is historical fiction based on actual events that took place in the 1930s when some very brave women decided to start a mobile library to educate and arm the people of rural Kentucky with books.  I mean, the plot is suburb!  There is a little love, a little mystery, some suspense…good grief, the first paragraph will suck you right in, but it just seemed long there in the middle.  I would love to know if I’m out here on an island all by myself with this one.

Next up, I read…

…Cilka’s Journey.

Now, I was a little apprehensive to read this one because it’s the sequel to my second favorite book of 2019 (a book I think EVERYONE should read!!) and was afraid it wouldn’t live up.  But guess what? It was stunning.  Powerful.  A must read.  Seriously, everyone read The Tattooist of Auschwitz and then read this one right after.  Cilka is mentioned in the first book (referenced many times by the Tattooist), but this story is about her journey after Auschwitz when she was forced into a Russian labor camp. Now, the author spent quite a bit of time interviewing and getting to know the Tattooist but was never able to interview Cilka, so this book is loosely based on her life as told by people who knew her along with factual information that has been uncovered from her past at both the concentration and labor camps.  Nevertheless, the story will leave you breathless.  Seriously, there were moments when I was reading this and holding my breath with anticipation and nerves.  I could not put this book down.  I actually stayed up until 12:30 one night to finish it because I had to know how it all turned out.  I really, really love both of these books so much.

My third book of the month needed to be LIGHT as the last two were heavy, so I went through your comments and did a little asking on Stories and settled on…

…Twice in a Blue Moon.

Okay, whew!  Light and happy!  I believe this is my third book to read by these authors (two women make up Christina Lauren), and I probably liked it the best.  This is total easy to read chick-lit (my fave!).  Where do I start?  Okay, I will start with the fact that this should be turned into a movie.  This reads very much like a romantic comedy that needs an adorable leading lady.  This one was so cute and easy to read that I had it finished in 24 hours (thank you hysterectomy that allowed me to sit out all day in lieu of skiing…).  This is about a teenage couple that fall in love while vacationing in London and then are separated over a decade and then reconnect when she just happens to be a famous movie star and he’s written the new movie she’s filming. (Hello?!  Shouldn’t that be a movie right now?!)  It’s that once in a blue moon type of love..or maybe twice 😉 .  I mean, yes, it’s a little predictable and perhaps cheesy at times, but boy, I need that in my life from time to time.  I will say too that this one is probably Rated R, so please understand that before you dive in.

Next up, I read The Flatshare which checked all of my boxes 🙂 .  It’s a quirky little upbeat novel that takes place in London.  It’s charming, it has that delicious British wit, it has a happy little ending and it was quick to read.  See?  Everything I love in one novel.  I really thought the premise of this one was unique.  It’s about two working adults in London who have opposite schedules…he works nights and weekends and she works long weekdays, so they split an apartment…and are never there at the same time.  They get to know each other through notes left around the apartment and well, I thought it was adorable.  For those of you who don’t love the sappy Hallmark-y type novels, then pick this one up.  I thought this was meatier and not quite so predictable.  I also think this one is more PG13.  I loved it.  This could be a movie too.

Okay, I’m not quite sure why I read this next one…

…Debbie Harry’s new memoir Face It.  Um, I don’t know? I really like a memoir/autobiography and so this one came out, I didn’t know anything about Debbie Harry or the band Blondie, so I thought it would be very interesting and/or educational.  Hmmm, it was a miss for me.  I always take notes as I read books or when I’m finished so I can later go back and use them for my monthly book reviews and these were my notes: disjointed, rambled, kind of oddly written, not my favorite, brushed over major life events (she was raped more than once) and spent a lot of time on things that seemed trivial.  Um, so…I just don’t think I was probably the right person to read this book.  That being said, if you’re a big Blondie fan, it’s out and you might really find it fascinating.  I found it…um, peculiar.  BUT I do love to read memoirs, so if you have another suggestion for me, please comment and share!!!

Okaaaaaaaay…I’m a little concerned you guys are going to be mad at me about my thoughts on the next two books too…

…hmmm, Colleen Hoover an I might need to break up.  (Ha!)  This month, I read her latest book Regretting You. Now, Hoover and I have a real up and down relationship.  In 2016, I named her book It Ends With Us my second favorite book of the year!  That book is just fantastic.  I thought it was relevant, gut-wrenching, powerful, beautifully written, raw…I could go on and on.  Then last year, I read her book, Verity, which I named “the worst book I’ve ever read” and proceeded to use the word “stupid” for the first and only time in book review history to describe it (and I’ve reviewed over 300 books on my blog!).  I hated that book.  So, when this one came out, I was a little hesitant as I wanted to love it so much…but it was really just okay.  It’s so much better than Verity (oh heavens yes!), but I thought it was not nearly as powerful as It Ends With Us.  Once while reading it, I even went to Amazon to make sure it wasn’t a Young Adult book.  This is a novel about a huge secret that is revealed to a family after two of the family members suddenly die and how they cope with it.  It left me with so many questions.  I felt like they would say something huge and powerful (and pertinent to the story) and then never elaborate on it at all. I had questions  I had lots of and lots of questions that went unanswered, they were never readdressed.  I just didn’t love it. Now, I loved it a billion times more than that other one (Ha!), but if this had been my first Hoover book to read, I don’t think I’d pick up another one.  (Please don’t hate me all of you who told me to read this book!)

Speaking of hating me, I didn’t like my last book of the month either…

…Beartown.

Oh my.

I’m sorry.

You guys all know that I didn’t love his other book, A Man Called Ove, either, so really, are we surprised?  #probablynot

Um, well, I mean…I just didn’t love this one at all.  In fact, it was my least favorite of the bunch this month.  I thought it was very slow.  Like very slow.  I thought there were 3,648 characters yet not really a “main” character that you could root for.  I thought this book was depressing and sad.  I kept hoping for the ending to cheer me up, make me realize it was all worth it…but by the last page, I was just left feeling disappointed.  Oh gosh, anyone else????  I will say that the one thing I did enjoy about the book was that it wrapped up at the end.  I might not have loved it, but at least it did have an ending where the loose ends were tied up.  For those of you who don’t know, this is a novel about a really small town that is built around its hockey team…and the people whose lives are wrapped up in it.  I just thought it dragged along the whole time.  (There is even a sequel to this book…which I cannot even wrap my brain around.)  That being said, if you loved A Man Called Ove, I bet you like this one too 😉 .

Okay, seven books down this month!  Whew!  I really think part of my problem is that I read so many amazing books at the beginning of December that many of these just fell short of the bar that was set.  If you missed my December Book Review, make sure you click HERE because I read three really fantastic books.  You can also see my TOP THREE books of 2019 there as well along with a list of every book I read in 2019 🙂 .

Okay, now it’s your turn…what should I read next???  Please comment and share!! (And please don’t say the sequel to Beartown 😉 .)

Happy Book Day!! xo

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Comments

  1. Maria says

    Open Book by Jessica Simpson and Name Drop by Ross Mathews – both out today.

    They just loaded onto my kindle!

    Elin Hilderbrand recommends books frequently on her Insta. Her most recent is Fleishman is in Trouble by Taffy Brodesser-Akner. It’s on my list!

    • Stacy says

      I kept looking for your January Book Review! We are headed to McKinney this weekend from DC, and I thought I was going to have to pick my own books out *gasp* for the plane ride! Thanks again for taking time to answer all my questions! – Stacy

    • Kathryn Story says

      I TOTALLY agree with your review of Regretting You, Beartown, and Giver Of the Stars. My absolute favorites are The Things We Cannot Say, The Storyteller’s Secret, and Beantown Girls!!

    • Maggie T. says

      Jessica Simpson’s autobiography came out today. Not sure if it’ll be good or not, but it looked good!

    • Christina says

      For a memoir, try Wild Game : My mother, her lover and me. I read it in January and it read like fiction! I knew nothing about the author, but really enjoyed it. Also, not a memoir, but a fantastic historical fiction is The Things We Cannot Say!

    • Callie says

      I started reading (I’ve never been a reader) over Christmas break this year, so I actually read this post this time ?. I recommend The Culling by Tricia Wentworth and then the 2 books after. So good in my opinion!

      • Patty says

        One of the best things about a book club, and your book reviews and readers’ feedback is really a book club, is that you can give your opinion and it shouldn’t offend anyone. Not like talking religion or politics or family members! ? So don’t worry about offending anyone when you have a differing opinion. I loved Bear Town, but since I’m not the author (darn), it’s ok with me that you didn’t. Makes for more interesting discussions when we have differing thoughts. Thanks for offering your reviews, Shay. I always get ideas from your lists. Happy Reading!!
        PS Tomorrow, Feb 5, is National Read Aloud Day.

    • Barb S. says

      PLEASE read “A Place to Call Home” by Deborah Smith…it’s an older book, but it’s funny and raw and you’ll totally root for the main characters.
      Just trust me.

    • Jen says

      I’m reading Jessica Simpson’s book Open Book on audible and it’s very interesting!!! I like it 🙂

    • Abbey says

      I LOVED Open Book!! Read it all by Weds eve because I couldn’t wait for her to answer all of my burning questions; I’ve missed Jessica!!

    • Rebecca says

      Our book club is reading the following this year-

      Upstairs at the White House – I loved this!
      The River – I hated this!
      The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks
      We Were the Lucky Ones
      Daring Greatly
      Kitchen House
      Beneath a Scarlet Sky
      Proof of Heaven
      The Moment Of Lift
      The Water Dancer
      I Am Watching You

      Love your book reviews!!!

  3. Lori says

    Ok I so agree with you on the ones you didn’t love so much. Have you read the Bookwoman of Troublesome Creek? If not please do. I loved it so very much! Giver of the Stars couldn’t hold a candle to it in my opinion. In the story Cussy would read to some of the residents she delivered books to, that inspired me so much that I now go weekly to an assisted living facility and read to a resident who has lost her eyesight. The power of books and the way they connect us is so wonderful! Cilka’s Journey and the Tattooist are two of my all time favorites!!

    • Danielle Herod says

      Yes!! Bookwoman of Troublesome Creek was so good. I second you. I’m glad I read that and not the one here.:)

      • Lori says

        Ha! I recommend it to everyone! I tried reading Giver of the Stars, because I loved Bookwoman so much and it just didn’t grab me.

  4. Nanxi says

    You might like the Knitting in the City series from Penny Reid. It’s about a group of female friends who are strong and unique. The first one in the series is Neanderthal Meets Human.

    • Allena says

      I just finished Neanderthal Meets Human and liked it! Now I’m reading Neanderthal Marries Human while I wait for the next book to come available from the library ha.

  7. Alexis says

    I haven’t read Regretting You yet so now I’m curious to see what I’ll think once I do! The only one of hers I’ve loved close to how much I loved It Ends With Us was All Your Perfects. It Ends With Us will always be my fav though.
    My two favorite books in that kind of genre from last year were The Friend Zone and The Prenup. So cute and both have some depth! Especially The Friend Zone. Recommend both of them!!
    Just finished The Things We Cannot Say and I’ll be shocked if it isn’t my top book come December. No words for how much I loved it. Thank you!!

    • Paula says

      So interested to hear about The Things We Cannot Say. I saw the author speak last week – and I hadn’t heard of her before then. Will definitely look for The Things We Cannot Say. We got an advance copy of her new book coming out in April – Truths I Never Told You. Hopefully it’s also great!

    • Jennibell says

      I forgot about All My Perfects – that was good! I feel like CH writes a lot of what would be considered risqué YA. It Ends With Us was gut-wrenching and SO GOOD and I thought November 9 was excellent too.
      Thank you for all your reviews Shay – most of my book lists start with your recommendations 🙂

    • Ryan C. says

      Yes!!! Yes!!!! Yes!!!!! THE FRIEND ZONE!!!! Such a great book…Shay, you’ll LOVE it!!!❤

  10. Andrea says

    I thought the same exact thing about Bear Town. Actually I gave up on it and quit reading it! I highly recommend Chanel Miller’s “Know My Name”. It’s a powerful and thought provoking memoir.

    • Chrissy says

      I second Know My Name! The author is the rape victim in the Brock Turner case. She shares her story so beautifully–and she’s funny, too!

    • Julie Psurny says

      I’m currently rereading I Know This Much is True by Wally Lamb, one of my favorite authors. This novel is over 20 years old but there is an HBO mini-series debuting in April based on it, so it’s once again on many people’s radars.

      This is not an easy or quick read by any means. It’s huge (over 900 pages) and deals with some heavy difficult topics. But it is absolutely compelling and beautifully written. I highly recommend this book!

      • Nikki says

        Wally Lamb is amazing! I Know This Much is True is soooo good! If you haven’t read The Hour I First Believed, I highly recommend. It is the same not a quick read by any means, I think nearly 900 pages as well!

  11. Kristen Thompson says

    I totally agree with you on Giver of the Stars! It was ok but definitely not a favorite! I just finished Cilka’s Journey and like you, I was hesitant to pick it up but wow! Definitely a powerful book! As always, I recommend anything by Sarah Jio! She is probably my favorite author! My favorite of her books is probably The Bungalow, but they are all amazing!! Praying for Ashby and Andrew for speedy, healthy recoveries!!

    • Susanne says

      I love Sarah Jio too! And The Bungalow is my favorite as well. Just read her new one All the Flowers in Paris and loved it! Really I’ve loved every single one of hers, except The Look of Love.

  12. Kimberly says

    Man of the Year by Caroline Louise Walker. It was a top pick by Real Simple Magazine and a very exciting read!

  13. Amanda says

    Shortcake by Lucy Watson was laugh out loud funny but also the cutest romance! I also loved The Everything Girl by Emily Mayer! Both were fun, cute romances:)

  17. Amy Broughton says

    Also loved twice in a blue moon! Just finished the first book in the Virgin River series. I had heard about it before it was on Netflix (don’t plan to watch anyway.) Likeable main characters, great romance, and just a bit meatier then hallmark but that feel good read. First chapter was the slowest.

    • Katie says

      I just bought this book because I loved the Netflix series. But then I heard it’s a pretty long book series and don’t want to get too involved with the characters unless it’s good. Would you recommend?

  18. Sara D says

    I’m currently reading Followers by Megan Angelo. Its an interesting (Yet fictional) take on how social media and technology can go wrong in the future. It’s a pretty light read but gives you plenty to think about!

  19. Kristi says

    The Silent Patient.

    Also, Jessica Simpson’s book, Open Book, is released today – I should have it on my doorstep by the end of the day!

  21. Claudia Mcconnell says

    Hey there! Night Road by Kristen Hannah is so many things!! Gut wrenching and raw. It’s a must read. Also the Life She was Given by Ellen Wiseman was fascinating. Right now I’m reading the Family Upstairs by Lisa Jewell and I can already predict a good recommendation!!

  22. Beth Miller says

    I had to stop The Giver of Stars because I just couldn’t get into it, so you’re not alone! However, I LOVED Regretting You! I thought it was well written and powerful. The Flatshare was one of my favorite books of last year, so I’m glad you finally read it! Cilka’s Journey was amazing too, and everyone should read it plus the Tattooist!

    • Misty says

      Well Met by Jen DeLuca lighthearted chick lit. Loved the characters, gave me all the warm and fuzzies.

      • Sandy Crayton says

        The Dutch House by Ann Patchett – do the audio, it’s narrated by Tom Hanks which I think added to the story. It’s different and I liked it. I agree on Giver of the Stars, it’s the first JoJo book I didn’t really like.

    • Melody says

      I couldn’t get thru that book and put it away. But want to read a brand new book that just came out.

  24. Erica says

    Currently reading “Dog is Love”. Nonfiction about how and why dogs “love”. So far I’ve found it fascinating! Seems fitting as you have a new puppy ?

  25. Sherry Thomas says

    Storm Peak byJohn Flanagan. It’s a mystery/romance based on a female Sherriff in Steamboat Springs. I read it in a hot tub on a balcony overlooking the slopes in Steamboat and could see many of the places in the book. That made it fun to read, but it also is well written and sucked me right in.

  28. Susan says

    Love your book review day! I am not a fan of Bear Town either. And I read the sequel just to finish it up — also not good — so I don’t recommend that! Not chick lit at all, but one of my favorites last year was Fall and Rise: The Story of 9/11 by Mitchell Zuckoff.

  30. Lorraine says

    Chinese Cinderella by Adeline Yen Mah. It’s based on her life. The book was so good that I didn’t pick up another book for a while because I was convinced there wasn’t going to be a better book. I hope you’ll read it!

  31. KD says

    I didn’t care for Beartown either, but I liked A Man Called Ove and another book by that author, Britt Marie was Here. I think he’s great at developing characters but I had to force myself to keep reading Beartown.

    • Allie says

      I quit Beartown before I even made it halfway through. I just could not get into it! Completely agree there were no real characters to root for.

  32. Lori says

    I’m 100% with you on The Giver of the Stars. I had to kind of force myself to get through it and considered it an accomplishment when I did!
    I love all of Elizabeth Strout’s books-amazing characters and they should all be movies! Olive Kitteridge, Olive Again, The Burgess Brothers, Lucy Barton-all so good!
    Have you already read One Day in December? Loved it!

  33. Becki Stanley says

    The Silent Patient is an excellent thriller. One of the best ones I have read in awhile. Currently reading Normal People.

  34. Angela Jernigan says

    Do you ever read John Grisham books? I just finished his latest, The Guardians, and loved it.

  35. Shannon schupp says

    The Girls with No Names is my favorite book of the new year so far. I also LOVED The Things We do for Love by Kristen Hannah if you haven’t read that. I didn’t love the giver of the stars either. I did really like regretting you…it’s def not my favorite Colleen Hoover book but it was so much better than Verity and Too Late! I have a book Instagram @itwasboundtohappen

  37. Jerilynn says

    Ugh! Did not love Regretting You either. For some reason her books make me feel like I am reading books slightly beneath my intelligence level and I am not snooty like that! Does that make sense? ?
    Thank you for saving me from Beartown! It was going on my list. I think one problem for me is that I find a book that is amazing and then others don’t measure up. The Last Mrs. Parrish has almost ruined suspense lit. for me. I loved it that much because it was so smartly written.

  38. Jennifer Goodwin says

    Have you read I Spy, by Karen Kendal? Also, any of Danielle Steel’s books are great. I just read Spy by her and loved it, but I only love her later books, so do your homework first. She’s written a million.

  39. Kathleen says

    Did The Giver of Stars remind you at all of Where the Crawdads Sing? I can’t put my finger on it but for me the two books felt similar.

  40. Carole says

    You’ve probably read because it’s old, but if not, “Open” by Andre Agassi is my favorite biography of all time!

    • Jennibell says

      Open was really good! I think there is a YA version maybe? I recall listening to it with my kids a decade or so ago – when they were in competitive sports (not tennis) and gave them a good look at what a professional athlete’s life really looks like
      I wish he would write another one about what he’s been up to since then with his school and all….

  41. Jessica says

    I think you’d really like On the Island by Tracy Garvis Graves. I went in thinking it would be super predictable – and it was – but it was also really well written and just a good story.

    Also, have you ever considered running a book club group on Facebook? I’m in a couple and they’re so fun!!

  42. Kerri says

    Just downloaded Jessica Simpsons new memoir, I like a good memoir. Have work travel and plane rides, this week so hope it’s a quick read.

  43. Katie M says

    Bear Town was one of my favorites last year- actually reading the sequel now. It isn’t fast paced but the writing is just very beautiful. I enjoyed and appreciated the omniscient narrator. It is hard to keep track of everyone in the beginning- but I think it was well done to read how everyone reacted and played a role in the tragic event at the end of the story (versus just one side). It’s definitely a book you can’t skim over as some of it is so powerful and deep.

    I know you prefer lighter reads, and I would also recommend Josh and Hazel’s Guide to Not Dating by Christina Lauren (I read it after Bear Town, which was needed!). That is my favorite of hers that I’ve read- so funny! I also recently loved Maybe You Should Talk to Someone, Evvie Drake Starts Over, and The Most Fun We Ever Had.

    Happy Reading!

    • Colleen says

      I also enjoyed Bear Town – it was quite different from anything else I have read and I could really feel for the characters. Maybe it helps that we are a hockey family, too.

    • MM says

      Also loved Beartown and Us Against You. I think I even liked the latter more. Having grown up in a small town in upstate NY and having gone to a very small college in a town that revolves around hockey, I think I appreciated it even more. The character development is truly amazing and continues throughout the second book. It’s not a light read but there are many important messages.

  44. Amy in PA says

    Bear Town was a hard read and I’m sorry it was even recommended to you. It’s so different from his other books that I had to take a day off from reading it to adjust my expectations. Check out A Fall Of Marigolds by Susan Meissner. You’ll love it (and I’m going to keep recommending it until you do! ?

  45. Kristi says

    Oh I so agree! HATED Beartown, so boring and slow and not a Colleen Hoover fan at all. Recent books I really loved are Long Bright River, Know my Name, the Glittering Hour!

  46. Nora Segrest says

    Just finished Ask again, Yes by Mary Bath Keane. It was so good. I finished it in three days.

    • Kristine says

      I want to read it too! Just hosted my neighborhood book club meeting and I chose The Tattooist of Auschwitz. Everyone loved it!

  48. Amanda says

    I found The Giver of Stars’ ending a bit lackluster…all that buildup for the dad to just give up?! I found it slightly unbelievable, but overall I liked the book, but felt similarly to how you did about the length and how it dragged in places. I also started A Man Named Ove and can’t see to finish it either. ? Next up on my list is The Huntress (same author as The Alice Network, which was PHENOMENAL).

  50. Cheri says

    I jüst ordered The Tattooist of Auschwitz and Chilka Journey. The books I have gotten in the past couple of years have all been from your recommendations (no pressure). Can’t wait to sit and have a good read.

  51. Melissa Terry says

    I’m currently reading Meg and Jo which is a modern day retelling of Little Women. The characters are being developed with different storylines from the original, but it’s really good! I’m looking forward to Cilka’s Journey (you are so right about Tattooist) and Such a Fun Age.

  52. Tanya says

    Well, after the previous comment, I’m heading over to follow Elin H. immediately on Instagram…ha, ha! Thank you so much for the honest reviews. I loved Man Called Ove, but couldn’t even finish Beartown. And I feel the same way about Giver of Stars. I love (and I mean LOVE) Moyes’ previous books, but couldn’t finish Giver of Stars. I’m guessing you’ve already read Emily Giffin’s books Something Borrowed and Something Blue. If not, I highly recommend for some light romantic comedy reads.

    Here are my latest book reviews ~
    Tanya – The Other Side of the Road

  53. Hannah greig says

    Three weeks with my brother. A memoir by Nicholas Sparks. Have a box of tissues nearby.

    • Teri says

      Loved this book! There were emotional parts, but I also found it so inspiring. It is an all time favorite.

    • Jennibell says

      And Nicholas Spark’s latest (?) book, Every Breath, was excellent. I host a Book Buzz FB page and someone actually visited the mailbox where the story started…. a really GOOD book. Written like The Notebook but based on a true story.

    • Melody says

      Love that book….I have every single Nicholas sparks books he has written and anxiously await his new one in sept 2020.

  54. Chelsea says

    I was not a fan of Bear Town, either! I enjoyed Ove, but I really loved another Backman book, My Grandmother Asked Me To Tell You She’s Sorry. It’s sweet and whimsy, but deep… it made me laugh out loud and bawl at the end. Maybe the third time will be the charm!

      • Susan says

        I could not finish Grandmother…! Our whole book club actually gave up on it. I read Bear Town and had to really make myself finish. I think I don’t like the authors writing style, just too many words for me.
        Favorite book from January was The Huntress by Kate Quinn.

  55. Sarah says

    Interesting- I have three of these books on my February TBR list (Regretting You, Beartown, Flatshare). I usually have the same reading taste as you so now I’m questioning two of them haha!

    • MM says

      I typically like many of the same books too but LOVED Beartown and Us Against You (perhaps even more than Beartown). You should try it. A goodreads 4.3 is nothing to scoff at!

  56. Anna says

    Red, White and Royal Blue – a bit similar to American Royals – PG-13/R?

    Savage News by Jessica Yellin

    Appreciate your reviews – happy reading!

  57. Sami Moss says

    If you loved The Flatshare, you need to read Our Stop by Laura Williams. So cute, not quite as predictable as other rom-coms, witty and fun. Also tried to read Beartown this month and just could not finish. Soooooooo boring and sad.

  58. Christy Dull says

    I loved A Man Called Ove and soooo wanted to like Beartown! I did not! I didn’t even try to finish it.

  59. Jen says

    Oh how i have missed book review day!! It feels like it’s been forever and book review day is my favorite day! I just finished ‘Ghosted’ and reallllly liked it. It had me guessing several times. LOVED it!!

  61. Dana Rudder says

    I love your honest book reviews! Giver of Stars was painful for me. I was so excited to read it also and I could not believe it. Cilka’s Journey and Tattoist Auschwitz are hands down two of the best and most important to read!

    I recommend The Third Daughter (very intense but a story that should be told) and Island of Sea Women.

    Happy Reading and thanks for sharing ?

  62. Megan Bowen says

    I am planning to read Jessica’s Simpson’s new book, Open Book. I am hoping all the good parts haven’t been shared in all her pre-release publicity.

  63. Leslie says

    I just read Unplanned (Memoir)by Abby Johnson. It has me rethinking how we love others that don’t agree with us❤️

  64. Mackenzie Dwoznik says

    I absolutely loved The Gown! I think it’s a book you should dive into. it’s historical fiction about the embroiderers who worked on Queen Elizabeth’s (Princess at the time) wedding gown. There is love, betrayal, family, royals, and of course London.

  65. Megan says

    I could not agree with you more on Beartown! It was the first book I allowed myself to “quit” because it was that awful. Thank you for having the same feelings about it, I feel justified and not as guilty ?

  66. Linzi says

    Read “The Dutch House” by Ann Patchett or “Commonwealth”. Both so good! She is a very talented author.

  67. Ashley says

    I am surprised so many felt the same way about The Giver of Stars- I actually really liked it and read it in 3 sittings. You might try The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek- similar story about the Packhorse Women Librarians! I also read this month per your recommendations: Daisy Jones, All We Ever Wanted, Before I Let You Go, and a Woman is No Man. Loved them all especially Daisy! I also read Inside Out by Demi Moore and American Royals. I didn’t care for American Royals as much. As always loved your book suggestions!

  71. Courtney Wagoner says

    This Tender Land by William Kent Krueger. It was recommended to me by a friend and one of the best books I have read in a REALLY long time.

  72. Erika Slaughter says

    Okay, I’ve gotta find some time to keep reading The Flatshare! I’m so glad you liked that one!

  74. Jessica says

    You haveeeeeeee to read A Simple Wild by KA Tucker. I’m almost positive you will LOVE it and a sequel is coming out in March. It’s got romance, family, friendship, ALASKA. It’s just really sweet and lovely and fun and I think you’ll love it.

  75. Kelly says

    I think you would love The Dearly Beloved. It covers faith, relationships, parenthood in such a beautiful way. Jenna Bush Hagar said it was her new favorite book and I am inclined to agree. A truly beautiful novel.

    • Sheila DeSpirito says

      I’m reading it now and love it. I was also going to recommend it to Shay. I guess now I am now.

  76. Meg H says

    I, also, have Colleen Hoover issues! HAHA! I absolutely LOVEDDDDD It Ends With Us and most of her others fell flat for me; however, I did love Ugly Love by her! I would love to know your thoughts on it. Verity was crazy, Without Merit was ugh, and Losing Hope was very R-rated about teenagers. I did enjoy Losing Hope, but I had to pretend that the main characters were much older to get through it. I love your reviews and always come here to make my To-Read List!! 🙂

  77. Melissa Parsons says

    Know my name
    The things we cannot say….right up there with the Nightengale for me!

  78. Kellie says

    Well I just downloaded Verity so thank you for saving me my time by mentioning how bad it was lol! Also have you heard of Scribd?? Best ever!! 9.99 a month and it’s unlimited books, audiobooks and magazines! It’s been amazing!! https://www.scribd.com/gi/880f4i

  79. Elizabeth Winter says

    Good Girls Lie and Such a Fun Age are two I loved most recently!
    I’m so glad I’m not the only one that didn’t like Verity. I’ll never understand its hype. It always makes me wonder if the hype is because people like things that are trending….. but I 100% agree on that one! And now I’m nervous to pick up Regretting You, which is on my bookshelf from the Target buy two get one free sale!

  80. Sheila C says

    Dear Edward by Ann Napolitano is so fabulous. Heartbreaking, thought-provoking, one that stays with you and fills you with awe about the human spirit and the power of our minds.

  81. Fenny says

    Mama’s Boy by Dustin Lance Black. Best memoir I’ve ever read. You will laugh, cry and learn a lot about the power of love and family. So so good.

  82. Lana says

    I have commented this before, but it bears repeating for sure – based on what’s I’ve read of your tastes, I cannot recommend Joshilyn Jackson enough! Starting with “gods in Alabama” would be my suggestion. I have read a LOT of books, but she is an author that I always enjoy. There are some of her books I love more than others, for sure, but these are books you can reread and still enjoy. I would suggest reading them in the order she writes them (as she often includes a familiar character), but it’s not required to understand. They are just well-written and oh so good!

    • Kristy Ramsey says

      YES YES YES! She is my favorite author! My favorite is Someone Else’s Love Story. Her characters are so wonderful!!

  83. vicki@lifeinmyemptynest says

    Totally agree on The Giver of The Stars. I found myself skimming parts. And I have read every JoJo book and loved them. Another blogger and I decided she had a ghost writer for this one – completely different voice.

  84. Rachel says

    Indigo Girl by Natasha Boyd- historical fiction, strong woman narrator, little bit of romance, and a quick read

  85. Peggy Glanzer says

    I just finished “The Guest Book” by Sarah Blake. Great family drama!! So good. I always check out your recommendations…

  86. Sarah Barntsen says

    Have you read the Midwife’s Confession by Diane Chamberlain? It seems like one you would pick up, but if you haven’t, I would be very curious what you’d think about it. ?

  87. gretchen dall says

    Have you read Before We Were Yours? Fiction based on actual events. It was so good- but parts were brutal. Might read the description first. If you think it will be too much then skip……

  88. Julie Bowers says

    I don’t have enough time to spend reading ok and less then ok books so I tend to stick with historically accurate fiction or historically accurate non fiction, biographies, autobiographies, and the Bible or Biblical based books. With that being said, I loved The Tattoist of Auschwitz, as difficult as it was to read, so am looking forward to Cilka’s journey. I also recently read Destiny of the Republic by Candace Millard (also author of The River of Doubt, also excellent) and can highly recommend this book. I know my genre is very limited and won’t appeal to all!! I admire all the reading you’re able to fit in with 4 beautiful children and such a busy life!

  89. Elizabeth S says

    I know you have read maybe one or two Renee Carlino books before, but you should read more! Wish You Were Here is great! I cant remember if you have read One Day in December or not, but it is another favorite that I have read recently (its not super Christmas-y). I also loved Half Truths by Claire Contreras and Bringing Down the Duke by Evie Dunsmore! Love your book reviews!

  90. Julie says

    Hi Shay! I really enjoyed “Such a Fun Age”/Kiley Reid. A very well written and important book about the relationship of a nanny with her complicated boss. Lots of twists and turns. The best biography I’ve read in a while is Bob Iger’s “Ride of a Lifetime.” I love anything Disney, but he is also just such a positive force with tons of good advice on how to manage your business. I feel like I highlighted every other sentence! I’m currently reading “The Whisper Network.” It is REALLY good. The only problem for me is the writing is a bit, I don’t know, hard to follow? This doesn’t ever happen to me but I’m having to go back frequently and re-read a sentence to get then true meaning. Maybe I’m just tired? ;).

  91. Katie Hayes says

    “Chasing Vines” by Beth Moore comes out today and it is wonderful! Seriously one of her very best ever, in my opinion. 😉

  92. Jennifer Maynard says

    I am so glad there is a sequel with Cilka’s Journey. I just read the first one and didn’t know there was a sequel. And I am reading Twice in a Blue Moon and darn it, I had to go to work and couldn’t keep reading it this morning. I am loving it!

  93. Kim says

    Ok, The Only Plane in the Sky: An oral history of 9/11 is one of the best books I’ve read in a very long time. The author has compiled first hand accounts from people affected by 9/11–from survivors to family members to rescue workers to government officials to air traffic controllers, and has broken up their stories into pieces to fit them into the timeline of the day and days after. It was truly riveting, and I honestly don’t think I’ve ever described a book that way before! (And I’m a big reader!)

    • Jana says

      I believe I recommended this book previous months but was going to recommend it again. I read a lot (152 books in 2019) and it is one of the most powerful books I have ever read. The audio book was even better. I have visited all three 9/11 memorials (Flight 93, the Pentagon and Ground Zero), went to the 9/11 museum and have read many other 9/11 books and I still learned so much about the day from this book. Highly, highly recommend.

  94. Elizabeth McGrath says

    Yes! Totally agree with you on Giver Of the Stars and Regretting You. I loved the story of Giver of the Stars, but I did keep thinking it was so long. It took a while for me to get into also. And I did the exact same thing with Regretting You, looked it up to see if it was YA. I did that pretty early on in the book and was prepared to give it up. The story was pretty far fetched, but in the end I liked it. So hard to follow It Ends with Us. Currently reading The Overdue Life of Amy Byler and I’m loving it so far!

  96. Rachel says

    Will pick up the sequel to Tattooist! I’m right in the middle of We Were The Lucky Ones……so far amazing! But I’m a sucker for good WW2 novels. Also loves The Diplomats Wife and the Kommandments Girl!

  97. Alexa Gutz says

    I have read 6 books since 2020 started and just started my 7th. I don’t know if you have ever read a book by Danielle Steel but I always enjoy them, and I think they are all so different. The most recent ones that I read by her are The Duchess and Magic.

  98. Lynn Wang says

    City of Girls by Elizabeth Gilbert. I loved this one so much.

    About to read The Dutch House because it’s highly recommended too.

    If you have any interest in educational/parenting type books: Voice Lessons for Parents was excellent. And I’m in the middle of The Coddling of the American Mind for a reading club discussion.

  99. amy brooks says

    I have 2 books for you!!! First, The ScentKeeper- I read it back last year and it was just named as Reese’s February pick for this month! I loved it!! Second, Carnegie Hill by Jonathan Vatner was a great refreshing read set in New York City, Very cute book! As always, love all your suggestions!

  100. Ashley Carter says

    I was fascinated by the book Bad Blood: Secrets and Lies in a Silocon Valley Start Up (by John Carreyroe). I typically love light and cheery books like you but I could not put this one down!!! It was soo good. Happy February!

  101. Jenna says

    Autobiographies – Lucky Man by Michael J. Fox or Standing Tall by C. Vivian Stringer…both very powerful reads!

  102. Kara Ponder says

    I just read Dear Edward by Ann Napolitano. It is a beautiful story about grief. I would most definitely rate it as one of the best books I have every read. The writing is truly beautiful.

  104. Emily says

    I read Beartown last year and HATED it. It was the worst book I read (besides Verity). I really didn’t like it at all…. and didn’t Regretting You just feel like half of a book? So much of the story was dangled in front of us and never revealed. Just a weird book in my opinion. I wonder if Colleen Hoover has gotten so popular that she’s trying to crank books out faster? I don’t know. I loved Twice in a Blue Moon, too- have you read The Friend Zone? I read it right after and loved it, too.

  105. Katie says

    I didn’t care for Regretting You either. It was slow, predictable, and missing so many details. I found myself skimming the last half of the book because it couldn’t hold my attention. And I also HATED Verity! It’s the worst book I’ve ever read.

    Have you read The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society? The title is a mouthful but he book is delightful! It’s a little heavy but an overall wonderful read.

  106. Katie says

    I’m still old school and have a fire tablet but it has bit the dust. Thinking of getting the paper white but hate the thought of having to pay for books! Are there good ones available for free do you know?

    • Jayne says

      Katie, you can probably check out and download ebooks from your library. I do that quite often -I can check them out for two weeks just like a physical book.

    • Kelly says

      The Libby app lets you download books from your local library and transfer them to your Kindle for free.

    • Jeanelle says

      I use the Libby app and check out books for free from the library to read on my Kindle – it works great (you can also read on your phone but I have the Kindle Paperwhite and would rather read on that.) I generally go into the app on days like today and put in all of the suggestions I find here and get on the wait list. The only real negative is having to wait for the more popular/newer ones but thankfully, there are so many good books to read in the meantime. 😉

    • Katie M says

      Yes, the Libby App and Overdrive App are the same- I can download books for 21 days and can have 5 out at a time. As long as I don’t go back to my home screen on my kindle, the book will stay there even after the 21 days if I didn’t finish. I can also have 10 books on hold as well and when they are available, are automatically “checked out” to my kindle then I need to download them. It’s the best!

    • Becky Carl says

      If you have Amazon Prime go to shopping on Kindle then look for Prime Reading. Those books are free with prime and some be of the best ones I have ever read.

  107. Ashley G says

    Someone gave me the tip to listen to Fredrick Backman’s books. That it is easier than reading them. So that’s my suggestion for anyone interested in his books. I loved A Man Called Ove, Beartown, and Us Against You.
    I love book review day and your honesty!

  108. Gretchen says

    I didn’t like Regretting You either! I felt like it needed more character development, less dialogue and more of Chris & Jenny. It left me with so many questions. Also, READ THE LETTERS! Throw us a bone, give us something! This was my first Colleen Hoover novel and I was massively disappointed. I will try It Ends With Us though. 🙂

    • Katie Smith says

      YES! Read the dang letter! I felt like there was an entire story in those letters that needed to be told. Why talk about the locked tool box and hiding the letters if you’re not going to share what’s inside? The lack of depth or character development made Regretting You a total snooze fest. BUT, It Ends With Us is truly wonderful. November 9th is pretty great as well.

  110. Staci Patyrak says

    First off, I’m reading your favorite book of 2019 right now and you are right, The Things We Cannot Say is a must read. I might have to try really hard to avoid ugly crying while listening to it on the way to work though. So, you also probably aren’t interested in anymore from Frederik Backman if you didn’t enjoy the last two you read. However, I just finished My Grandmother Asked Me To Tell You She’s Sorry and I loved it. There was definitely a main character and fantastic character development with the supporting characters. My first read of 2020 was Such a Fun Age by Kiley Reid and I really enjoyed it. It first, I didn’t think I loved the ending, but after further thought, kind of felt like it was perfect. As far as memoir, I really enjoyed Beyond Belief: My Secret Life in Scientology and My Harrowing Escape by Jenna Miscavige-Hill (her uncle is the current leader of Scientology). Maid was excellent as well, but I think you’ve already read that one. I live for these book reviews.

  113. Teri says

    A favorite of mine is “Special heart: A Journey of Faith, Hope, Courage and Love” by Bret Baier. It is a well written memoir by the journalist. He tells some of his life story which includes a sweet love story. The main part of his story is the experience of having their first child born with heart disease.

  114. Leslie says

    I just started The Giver of Stars and so far, I’m feeling the same way as you did about it.

  116. Maggie says

    Have you read any of the Outlander series? I’ve heard they’re amazing but just haven’t been able to really get into the first book for some reason. Would be nice to know if it’s just me who had a hard time diving into that, or if I should keep going. The show is awesome.

  117. Wendy Patterson says

    I love your comment about not having a character to “root for”….I have realized that’s a criteria for me in books and in TV shows! Also, read The Storyteller’s Secret – so, so good!!

  118. Lindsey says

    I couldn’t stand Verity either. Which was surprising bc it got great reviews.

    Try American Dirt, I just finished it and absolutely loved it!

  119. Mindy Galloway says

    I recently read Dear Edward by Ann Napolitano. It was a really tough subject matter, but a book I thoroughly enjoyed. I think you would too!

  120. Heather O. says

    I feel like you’ve been having luck with Christine Lauren so you HAVE to read Josh & Hazel’s Guide to Not Dating! It’s been my favorite of the ones I’ve read by the duo (although I have not yet read Twice in a Blue Moon).

    Thanks for always sharing your reviews! Don’t feel bad for not liking books, not every book is for every person or for every season of life.

  121. Erica says

    Yesssss I agree! I feel the same way about Bear Town. I stopped out about halfway through and all my friends are mad at me for it!

  122. Candace says

    I will probably comment every month and recommend the same book… so be prepared 😉

    I really think you should put My Life From Scratch by Giselle Bullock-Prado on your list!!!

    • Patty Anderson says

      Yes, “My Life From Scratch” is so beautifully written and such a beautiful story!

  123. Jen says

    It sounds like you had a bit of a “book funk” month like I just did! I tried about 8 books, put down all of those halfway through (I’m bad about that!), and only finished 4 others. Thankfully, my book funk just ended with Followers! The blurb doesn’t do it justice. It’s brilliant, intuitive, unveils itself slowly and perfectly, and seems to be a perfect balance of all genres so far! It’s disheartening and trendy, but oh so addicting!

    I also still HIGHLY recommend again: Know My Name: A Memoir, City of Girls, Mrs. Everything, The Favorite Daughter, and The Hunting Party (this last one is perfect for winter!). From one picky reader to one who is in need of an amazing book, I promise you won’t go wrong with any of these!

  124. Kristi says

    Guessing you’ve read it already but incase you haven’t, my top read of last year was Before We Were Yours. And any Kristin Hannah book you haven’t read yet.

  125. Kelsee says

    Yes, I agree with you about “Regretting You.” I was so disappointed and at times angry during it. It definitely read more like a YA novel.

    I really powered through books in January and read 11:

    The Perfect Couple by Jackie Kabler:2/5 stars

    The Wives by Tarryn Fisher: 4/5 stars. I really enjoyed this one!

    Know My Name by Chanel Miller: 5/5 stars. Please read this one if you haven’t already! While long and rambly at times, the message is important.

    My Dark Vanessa by Kate Elizabeth Russell: 4/5 stars. This one is definitely rated R and disturbing at time, but I enjoyed it.

    The Miseducation of Henry Cane by Charles Brooks: 3/5 stars. If you watch Younger you may like this one! Its not as good as Marriage Vacation though which I highly recommend!

    Forever, Interrupted by TJR: 4/5

    The Dilemma by BA Paris: 4/5. Note that this is marketed as a thriller and it definitely is not a thriller.

    The Two Lives of Lydia Bird by Josie Silver: 3/5 stars

    The Book of Essie by Meaghan Weir: 3/5 stars

    The Lion’s Den by Katherine St. John: 4/5 stars. I really enjoyed this one!!

    The Wild Game by Adrienne Brodeur: 2/4 stars. This one has really great reviews, but quite honestly it made me mad. I almost didn’t finish it. In fact, I started it in December got halfway through and its been sitting on my nightstand since. I finally picked it up because I was tired of seeing it and finished it.

  126. Amy Booth says

    If you enjoyed the one about the Kentucky book mobile, check out The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek. It focuses more on the prejudices that she faces growing up as a true blue-skinned girl. It’s a thing,a genetic disorder that caused them to have blue skin!

  127. Tanya Reimers says

    I’m with you on The Giver of the Stars. I loved her previous books and was excited about this one. Usually if I’m not into the book I stop it, but I just kept reading thinking it has to get better…but it didn’t. I’m kind of in a book rut right now. Not sure if you’re read these, but they were good: Life and Other Inconveniences by Kristan Higgins, Brave Love by Lisa Leonard, Things You Save in a Fire by Katherine Center.

  128. Victoria says

    Do you ever abandon a book you don’t like? I have a rule—if I’m not feeling a book I have to give it 100 pages and if I still don’t like it I allow myself to stop reading it and move on to something I can enjoy. Most of the time, by the 100th page I’m hooked but there’s been a couple of books (A Man Called Ove!!!!!) that I quit as soon as I got to page 100 and never looked back! I know you’re reading to give us a review but if you truly don’t enjoy something and have to quit it I would totally understand!

    • Mix and Match Mama says

      Sometimes. I think I quit four books last year. I like your rule though! One hundred pages seems very fair!

  129. Eileen says

    We have very similar reading taste as I agree with your takes on The Giver of Stars and Regretting You. In fact I agree so much that I’m officially done with these two authors! I usually read about 75 books a year and this year I’ve actually added a “Did not Finish” shelf to my Goodreads account. Life is too short and there are too many great books to plug along with a book anymore for me. I can recommend two great reads to you, however, that I recently finished. Such A Fun Age and Dear Edward. In fact, right now, Dear Edward is my favorite read of the year. Good luck on your February choices. Hope we pick some great ones!

  130. Catherine says

    I can’t recall if you’ve already read this, but I highly recommend “Beneath a Scarlet Sky” A fascinating WW2 story set in Italy.

  131. Allena says

    The Bookish Life of Nina Hill and The Printed Letter Bookshop – both are delights! (Although a smidge similar because they are both about women who work in bookstores but the plots are VERY different.)

    I don’t think I’ve ever seen a review from you of anything by Jennifer Robson – I LOVE all her books. The Gown is her latest (I saw someone else recommended), but I think it’s her 5th or 6th book and they were all fantastic. WW1 or WW2 books.

    I did my book review yesterday and reviewed a different JoJo Moyes book – The Last Letter From Your Lover – and I commented that she isn’t my favorite author but I like her. It’s like she’s good and you keep coming back, but she isn’t a Taylor Jenkins Reid or anything haha.

    • Julie says

      I always look forward to your book reviews! I recently listened to the audiobook of Invisible Women and I couldn’t put it down. It’s nonfiction, but it’s so compelling! I have also read and loved The Huntress by Kate Quinn and Necessary Lies by Diane Chamberlain.
      Happy reading!

  132. Allena says

    I also meant to add Save Me the Plums by Ruth Reichl – I think it’ll check a lot of your boxes. It’s a memoir about her time as Editor in Chief of Gourmet magazine – you love memoirs, magazines and cooking ha. It was VERY enjoyable and really seems like something you would like (said by someone who doesn’t know you but feels like she does ha).

  133. Christa says

    I feel bad you didn’t like A Man called Ove. I sobbed at the end. It may have been some of my life stuff too, but so good. I liked Beartown, but growing up in small towns, hockey, maybe related better. I like the sequel too. Britt Marie was also a favorite of mine. I see Fleishman is in Trouble is being recommended and want you to read it just to hear your thoughts. I read it in January and almost stopped, but felt the ending was better. I just read The Bookwoman of Troublesome Creek and it was good so won’t read the other one as sound so similar. I just stared my first Taylor Jenkins, After I Do. I love your honesty!

  134. Lauren Sieh says

    Anything by Dee Henderson. “Danger In The Shadows” and “The Negotiator” are my favorites. I’ll probably read them each year once. 🙂

  136. Stacy G. says

    Please oh please read “Necessary Lies” by Diane Chamberlain. I recommend this to you ALL THE TIME and my comment gets lost. I love all of Chamberlain’s books but this one is my favorite. It has stuck with me for years.

  137. Laura says

    Phew! I panicked for a minute and thought maybe Cilkas Journey was the one you didn’t like!! I agree with your whole review. Just finished Giver of Stars and I liked it but didn’t love it. Flatshare was cute. I didn’t like Beartown either – happy I’m wasn’t the only one. I finally broke down and bought The Things We Cannot say because my library didn’t have it – loved it, so worth the money!! This month I read Know My Name, heavy but powerful. Also read The Most Fun We Ever Had. Its a commitment (over 500 pages!), but a great story about a family over many decades. It reminded me a lot of Ask Again, Yes. Starting American Dirt next.

  138. Brittany S says

    I love book review day!! I’m currently reading Such a Fun Age by Kiley Reid. Up next is Jessica Simpson’s memoir!

  139. Janette says

    I had mixed feelings about Beartown (slow start, but then really got in to it) but I felt the same exact way about Giver of Stars. DRRRRRAAAGGED on. I liked it, I kept reading, but about 60% through I was skipping pages because I just felt like LET’S GO. I am ready to be done with this one.

  140. Janette says

    Oh! And I highly recommend A Woman Is No Man by Etaf Rum. I was in a book slump and this 100% got me out.

  141. Pam says

    I love book review day!! My favorite day to add books to my never ending “to read” list! I’m not going to list any of my favorites but just wanted to mention that author Mary Higgins Clark passed away last Friday (1/31/20). I’m not sure if you are a reader of her many books but I thought this information fit in with your book review day and with your busy life I didn’t know if you had heard about this. She certainly had a long and productive life!

  142. Katie Cameron says

    Have you read The Keeper Of Lost Things by Ruth Hogan? I enjoyed it much more then I thought I would!

  143. Susy says

    I read at least one travel-focused book a month (often two), and this month it was Lonely Planet’s Innocents Abroad. It’s a lovely anthology of contemporary fiction and non-fiction writers writing about their most meaningful travel experiences. It’s great because you can finish each story in a relatively short time, ‘travel the world’ to hear special moments experienced while they traveled, and know the many sides of what we become as travelers and how those events change us. When life deals you unexpected events in home life (as with me) it’s so great to escape with a book that offers small bites.

  144. Laurel M says

    Ride of a Lifetime by Robert Iger. He’s the CEO of Disney and such an awesome business man. It chronicles his climb from a production assistant at ABC to running Disney and acquiring Pixar, Marvel etc. I read it after watching One Day at Disney on Disney+ and fell in love with him when they showed snippets of interviews of him 🙂

  145. Laura Fredlund says

    Your book review posts are seriously my favorite, and I look forward to them every month. I have read so many of your recommendations and love them!! This one I might have gotten from you.. but the art of hearing heartbeats. And Circe. I recommend those two
    Id love to hear your thoughts on Circe. Also The Moment of Lift by Melinda Gates (Bill Gates wife) we are reading that for book club right now and id love to hear your take on that one too. ❤hugs! You have been through a lot the past few months. I hope things have slowed down abd you can just breathe 🙂

  146. Chelsey Fernandez says

    I loved The Giver of Stars but do agree that it was too long. I found myself skimming at one point because I felt like the story was dragging and there was not much “going on.”
    And I agree with you regarding Colleen Hoover. The only book I’ve read of hers is It Ends With Us, I know that you and many others reviewed it and loved it but her writing is way too dramatic and over the top for me. I feel like they are x-rated young adult books, that’s how they read to me. Based on your reviews I have not picked up another lol oops!
    And I discovered Christina Lauren books last year and read Twice in a Blue Moon in January too – loved it! I have now read all of their books. I have loved them all, easy to read especially between the heavy stuff. I am in the middle of Gary Janetti’s book right now, Do You Mind If I Cancel?, and then I am going to start Cilka’s Journey. I cannot wait, as I loved The Tattooist as well!

  147. Addison says

    Shay! You MUST read Beantown Girls! It’s about a group of Boston girls who go overseas during WW2 to become Red Cross Clubmobile girls. It’s adorable and since you love Boston, you’d really enjoy it.

    I also just finished The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society and it was so unique and just so cute!!!

  148. Nicole Wilder says

    Just started Jessica’s Simpson’s new book-so far, so good! Also reading one right now(I tend to read more than one at a time) Lady Clementine by Marie Benedict. It’s historical fiction about Winston Churchill’s wife and I’m struggling to get through it..?

  149. Siena Pugnale says

    Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine. The cutest book ever!! And is being made into a movie.

  150. Allison says

    I love your book reviews so much! Although I’m mostly a fiction reader, I’ve read some good nonfiction lately. The Only Plane In the Sky is about people’s real time memories of 9/11. It’s from many perspectives and very interesting. Bad Blood is an investigative journalists look at Theranos.

  151. Jackie says

    I read Regretting You and Beartown and agree with you on both. I will say that I liked Beartown more after my mom (former English teacher) read it and we discussed it together. It reminded me of an English class requirement in that way- I enjoyed discussing it more than I did actually reading it. Sooooooooo long and sooooo many characters.

    I am flying through Such a Fun Age right now. It kept me up until 10ish last night which is a sign of a good book. I also recently enjoyed The Most Fun We Ever Had (I think you would really love this one),Ordinary Grace and Wild Game.

  152. MAUREEN WERNER says

    I love that you do’t like everything you read! Giving your honest opinion is great! We can’t all like the same thing or life would be only Vanilla!! On that note I must be honest and say I read “Where the Crawdads Sing” on your recommendation and really did NOT like it! It was too gritty and sad for me! (I am an adoptive mother of 11 children from hard places and I just have too much reality in my life! So I read to fill my mind with good and beautiful things!) I recommend “Home to Harmony” by Philip Gulley and the Mitford Series by Jan Karon! These books breathe life and happiness into your soul!! Happy reading!

  153. Amanda says

    I have just added at least 15 books to my library card requests from your reviews and the comments (the only way I can keep up without going bankrupt on books!)

  154. Jennifer says

    Thank you for the great reviews! Didn’t really agree in the Colleen Hoover one but I do see where you are coming from!.
    Would you be able to port your books you are currently reading? I know you did that for a month or two and I loved that!

    • Mix and Match Mama says

      I did it one month but decided it was too much pressure. Ha! I like the flexibility of being able to change the direction of my books as I read (sometimes, I don’t realize I need a happy one until after I read a sad one or sometimes, I don’t know I’m going to read ___ until someone tells me to). I’m sorry!

  155. Beth schuneman says

    I also hated a man called ove! So depressing and boring 🙁 A little different genre but I am hooked on all medical medium books. They are addicting and life changing 🙂 !!!!

  156. Laura B says

    Oh, I’m so sad! I loved Beartown and considerate an all time favorite -the writing is beautiful, there are so many poignant passages and the characters and drama sucked me in. I lost count of how many times I teared up or cried while reading it and, (not exaggerating) have thought about that book weekly since reading it a year ago. It touched me as a mother, as someone who loves sports and as someone who finds great power in community.

    Being a reader would be boring if we all like the same books though, yes?

  158. Chrys says

    So based on all of your comments, I think you need to read Jessica Simpson’s new book and report back to us lol. I have Spring Break in April and would like to know if I need to take it with me. Thanks! ?

  159. Lora says

    Anything by Jodi Picoult I have loved! Small Great Things, and The Storyteller are really good, mind provoking.

  161. Eryn says

    Currently reading Regretting You and it’s ok. Not my favorite. Nothing is going to compare to It Ends With Us.
    If you like “self help” and especially motherhood related, I recently read Grumpy Mom Takes a Holiday. Very life giving and uplifting and was just what I needed. I’ve been recommending it to every mother I know!

  163. Michele says

    I’m so glad I’m not the only one who did not like Beartown! It was the worst book I read in 2018 by a landslide.

  164. Katie says

    Have you seen the Winston Brothers series by Penny Reid??!!! It’s SO GOOD!!! Chick lit and funny! Great characters!

  166. Nancy Domke says

    Have you ever read anything by Mitch Albom? (Tuesday’s with Morrie, The Five People You Meet in Heaven, Have a Little Faith and others). His latest book, Finding Chika, is a beautiful, heart-wrenching story about a little girl, her guardians (Mitch & his wife), and how they became a family. I promise you……this book will touch your heart! ❤️

  167. Dana says

    You probably read this already but since it will be a limited series soon with Reese Witherspoon you naught want to if you haven’t…Little Fires Everywhere
    So many books I read are from your recs that it’s hard to recommend one to you lol…I loved The Gown last year if you haven’t read it!

  168. Vicki says

    Hi Shay! I need to get back into reading and want a light, easy, fun read. Can’t decide between The Flatshare and We Met in December. Which one did you prefer? Thanks so much, love book review day!

    • Mix and Match Mama says

      They’re very similar!! That being said, I thought The Flatshare was very unique.

  169. Shirley says

    Shay, I always love your book reviews, whether you like the books or not. I realize some of the books you didn’t like this time were recommended by your readers, but we’re all very different so our opinions are bound to conflict at times (I liked A Man Called Ove). I’m going to throw out some reading suggestions of my favorite books. I do like meatier stories, not just fluff. So here goes: Thunder Dog – may be my all-time favorite book, Have You Seen Luis Velez? (I love this author!), The Keeper of Lost Things, Driving Miss Norma, The Wish List by Ruby Hummingbird, Breakfast at Sally’s, The One I Was – this one had a shocking ending. I have a bunch more but that’s a start. Whether or not they are your cup of tea – you can decide. By the way, I adore Sheaffer’s comment – I follow her too and she cracks me up! Obviously not a book lover! 😀 I’m also happy to hear your surgery patients are doing so good!!

  170. Rachael says

    They can’t all be winners! Thanks for doing the legwork….I only read the ones that you recommend and then I’m never disappointed:)
    I finally read One True Loves last week and it was just so incredibly good that I decided to stick with Reid, and I picked up Daisy Jones and the Six today.

    • Julie says

      Have you read WhenWe Believed in Mermaids by Barbara O’NEAL? Just finished it and I didn’t want it to end.

  171. Denise says

    I read about 10-12 books a month, so always on the lookout for recommendations and just love your book reviews! Many of my reads come from your recaps or from your readers!
    That said, I was on a memoir/autobiography kick for awhile and really enjoyed all of Mindy Kaling’s and Ali Wentworth’s books, and Anna Kendrick’s Scrappy Little Nobody!

  172. Danielle says

    Thank you for the recommendations. Your book review posts are always my favorite! I would recommend that you read The Stationery Shop, The Whisper Man, and The Favorite Daughter by Kaira Rouda.

  173. Margaret says

    Think you would love all of these: An Invisible Thread by Laura Schroff The storytellers Secret by Dejal Badani The Life List by Lori Spielman The silver music box by mina Baites Then She was Gone by Lisa Jewell The Pearl that broke its Shell by Nadia Hashimi The Secret Daughter by Kelly Rimmer All pretty highly reviewed on Amazon.

  174. Marianne says

    The most beautiful memoir I’ve ever read is Bloom by Kelle Hampton. It is real and it is RAW. You will cry and you will laugh. Such a beautiful account of motherhood. And when life doesn’t go according to plan. I have mad respect for the author. Can’t recommend this book enough!

  175. Andrea K says

    Yay!!! Book review day!!!

    You MUST read “On Fire” by John O’Leary. He is a friend of mine from college. His story is amazing, his faith unwavering, and there is a MLB connection to Jack Buck in the book. It is a truly uplifting book that allows for reflection on how we handle life’s challenges,
    Here is an excerpt from his website… http://johnolearyinspires.com/johns-story/

    “John O’Leary has lived through worse than most can imagine.

    At the age of nine, John was severely burned on 100% of his body. No one expected him to survive the first night. But he did. He then survived months in a hospital bed, dozens of surgeries, and years of therapy. Before his tenth birthday, John lost all of his fingers to amputation.

    This wasn’t the end. John’s journey was just beginning. From this tragedy, John received the greatest gift – embracing the truth that regardless of our personal and professional challenges, we choose how to.

    Navigate adversity through decision-making
    Reveal a brighter vision for what’s possible
    Live boldly to impact others
    As a boy in that hospital bed, John could not have foreseen the amazing things he would accomplish. But his journey proved more empowering and rewarding than he could have ever imagined. It gave him strength. It fueled and drove him on. It provided hope. It taught him compassion and understanding, and it gave him a solid foundation for living.

    Some call John a survivor, but he is so much more than that. John O’Leary is a beacon of hope, and he’s ready to share his message with you.

    John now lives to share his story and to spark the stories of others living boldly, so that together we can forge an extraordinary future by finding the possibility in the present.”

  176. Linda says

    Thanks for your book reviews! I always enjoy them and learn so much! If you haven’t read these books, I highly recommend The Girls With No Names by Serena Burdick, The Things We Cannot Say by Kelly Rimmer, and A Family of Strangers by Emilie Richards. Happy reading!

  177. Jeanie says

    I just have to say, I can’t believe you didn’t like A Man Called Ove. I’m not chastising you because to each his own, but it seems like a book you’d enjoy. Anyway, I loved that book.

  178. Lindsay says

    Someone I went to high school wrote a YA series several years back and they’re great books. I’d recommend the Satellite trilogy by Lee Davidson (you can find them on Amazon). They’re excellent and have a completely different take on something than I’ve ever read.

    Also, I LOVE the book Midwives by Chris Bohjalian. It is one of (if not my most) favorite books of all time.

  180. NancyS says

    Love your book reviews! Two of my favorites for 2020 are Long Bright River by Liz Moore and The Sweeney Sisters by Lian Dolan (coming out at the end of April). And, if your a Little Woman Dan, Meg and Jo by Virginia Kantra was a nice, light retelling.

  182. Janet says

    I listened to the audiobook version of A Man Called Ove while working. I liked it. I don’t believe I would have liked it as well if I had actually read the hard copy.

  183. Lindsay says

    Since you read so much you may have already read these but I really enjoyed Defending Jacob by William Landay and Under the Influence by Joyce Maynard. As a parent, these both really pull on your heart strings!

  184. Becky Carl says

    If you have Amazon Prime go to shopping on Kindle then look for Prime Reading. Those books are free with prime and some be of the best ones I have ever read.

  186. Lindsey says

    Sooooo glad I’m not the only one who didn’t like Bear Town. So many rave reviews and I just don’t get it. Bleck.

  188. Kelli Crough says

    Totally agree with your reviews!! And I love that you loved The Flatshare!!

    Have you read any Lisa Genova?? Left Neglected and Still Alice are two of my favorites.
    Also anything Charles Martin.

    I enjoy this monthly book review so much Shay!! Thank you for doing it!!

  189. Chelsea says

    The Simple Wild by KA Tucker! Cannot wait for the sequel Wild at Heart coming out in March!!

  191. Rachel says

    I can’t recommend The Girl Behind the Red Rope enough!! It’s a novel by Ted and Rachelle Dekker and is hands down my favorite read from 2019! It’s a thriller for sure, but not too much to handle. And it will leave you thinking about it for days (maybe weeks) after you read it because it’s so thought-provoking!

  192. Renee says

    Have you heard all the controversy about The Tattooist of Auschwitz? it has been brought up that it is unauthentic. Google news articles on the book and you might be surprised. I decided not to read the book because i believe the story is fiction.

    • Mix and Match Mama says

      The author has a long portion at the end about her experiences with him and then has a similar one at the beginning of Cilka. That being said, even if it were 100% fiction, I 100% still think everyone should read it.

  193. Francy says

    I recently finished and LOVED An American Marriage by Tayari Jones. It’s not a light subject, but it’s a good read.

  194. Melody says

    Please read Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers. Such a good book. I have read a lot of books but it is still my favorite. Just a disclaimer, when you start reading it you won’t be able to put it down so clean your house before you start it!

  195. Jeanine says

    Thanks for your honest reviews! I just finished reading The Rosie Project, The Rosie Effect, and The Rosie Result, a trilogy by Graeme Simsion. The first one is about an autistic Genetics professor who decides to conduct a wife project at age 39 because he wants to get married, but the traditional ways of meeting a potential wife haven’t worked for him. In the process, he meets a woman who he helps find her biological father. These books are so well written, funny, authentic and thought-provoking. They would be great for anyone who wants to understand more about autism or really just anyone who likes a really good book. I finished each one within 24 hours!

  196. Ellie says

    American Dirt! It’s a page turner and think it’s worth reading a book everyone is discussing. ?

  197. Andrea says

    First of all I ♥️ a honest book review, especially yours!!! I always always always come away with at least one or two books to add to my to read list. Secondly I feel like this month there are some great books that have been realeased to read. Jessica Simpson book! I have been counting down the days for that one and I’m already totally loving it! “Suffering strong” comes out next Tuesday by Katherine and Jay Wolfe. They wrote “Hope heals” a few years ago I think which was amazing!! Jenna Busch Hager’s bookclub selection “The girl with the louding voice” sounds super good. Oprah’s bookclub selection “American dirt” looked good as well. Oh and Jennie Allen just released “get out of your head” which come on I need that in my life right now!! Sooo happy fabulous February readers right??!! Whoop whoop!! ??

    Oh a book suggestion…I read Jenna’s bookclub selection for last month “Dear Edward” and it was really really good. Different, thought provoking, full of grace and beauty in its own way.

  198. Aiko says

    Sweet Gum Tree by Katherine Allred is a favorite of mine. It’s sweet, southern, romantic, and full of heart and sass. Unloved by Katy Regenery and Mud Vein by Tarryn Fisher are both wonderfully written, powerful, and unique love stories.

  199. Piper says

    My favorite books last year were We Were the Lucky Ones and Lilac Girls. Both biographical/historical fiction. Both set during WWII.

  200. Gina says

    Hi Shay! This is my first time posting to you site, although I’ve been following you for years!!! I always anxiously await your reviews, as I find that we have the same taste in books! I want to recommend two books to you written by the same author. I thought they were both fantastic!! And she’s from Shreveport, so not too far away! Ha! They are: This is Our Story and The Lying Woods by Ashley Elston. I seriously couldn’t put them down. Happy reading!!

  203. Joanne says

    I found that nearly all my books toward the end of the year were a bit off their mark but I am really enjoying some great ones this month. If you like historical fiction I love Ruta Sepety’s books (most of them are YA but they’re great!) I just read Out of the Easy this month and enjoyed it (though not as much as Salt to the Sea). I’m currently reading a gripping memoir called The Glass Castle that reminds me a bit of Educated. I just can’t believe people actually live, survive, and even thrive like this.

  204. Rachel says

    Hi Shay! I’ve suggested it before but I still think you should read Little Princes by Conor Grennan. It’s a beautiful memoir, funny and pulls at your heartstrings.

  205. Jenn says

    I’m currently reading, Ten Blind Dates and it is SO cute!!! Other recent reads I loved: Whisper Network and In a dark, dark wood.

  206. Ashley Stevens says

    I think you’d really enjoy Jodi Picoult’s books! I recommend Leaving Time and Second Glance. They’re not too heavy, but they do make you think and her character development is incredible.

  207. Raylene says

    The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern is one of my favorites.
    Your next biography should absolutely be The Seed From the East. This is the story of Harry Holt and how he followed God’s calling to travel to Korea to save as many Korean orphans as possible, and thus started Holt Adoption Agency.

  208. Jill says

    If you ever listen to audiobooks, I am currently listening to The Only Plane in the Sky. It is fascinating and heart-breaking. The audio is exceptionally done.

  209. Jennie says

    For a memoir I recommend Rob Lowe’s first book, Stories I Only Tell My Friends. I mean, he seems like such a nice guy and he’s from the Brat Pack days and I just can’t ever get enough of them. His follow up was ok, I just didn’t like it as much.
    And I just got Jessica Simpson’s book so I can’t wait to dive into that one.
    Happy Reading!

  211. Jen says

    I’m not done it but loving it so far and a perfect Saturday night read. “Tweet Cute” Such a good one to read especially after a heavy one!

  212. Jen Doublesin says

    I’m always impressed by how many books you can read a month! How do you find the time? I’ve added Cilka’s Journey to my list —loved Tatooist of Auschwitz! Just finished The Wife Between Us—so hard to put down and some great twists!

  214. Michelle Bradley says

    I havent seen you review Beneath a scarlett sky yet! One of THE best books i have ever read you have to read it 🙂 and i also agree with others about the jessica simpson book!

  215. Maria says

    Elin Hilderbrand just announced on Insta today she released a chapter to follow Summer of ‘69 called Summer of ‘79. Its digital only for $1.99.

  218. Amy says

    Thank you for your review of Beartown. I have been trying to read it and just can’t. Your review helped me walk away and pick up something else. ? The Things You Cannot Say was lovely. Have you read Ask Again, Yes? Also great.

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