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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

Books ·

September & October 2022 Book Review


You guys, I am SO SORRY!!!!!

Last month, with all of the traveling, I decided to combine my September and October book reviews into one post (today!), and well, clearly that was the wrong decision.  In my 15+ years of blogging, I’ve never had more people ask me the same question…Where is your September Book Review?!

You know, as much as I HATE that I didn’t post last month, you really just have NO IDEA how much it means to me that you love my reviews as much as you do.  Missing last month was all the motivation I needed to keep doing these monthly reviews forever.  And ever.  And ever.  I promise you, I won’t miss again 🙂 .

So, over the last two months, I have read SEVEN BOOKS that I’m reviewing today.  I have two memoirs, a thriller, a couple of chick lits, a work of fiction and one of the BEST books I’ve read all year…which is refreshing because…I honestly think this might be my least favorite year in books.

Sigh.

Anyone else feel this way?  I’ve read 54 books this year and probably only liked four of them.

UGHHHHHHHHH!

I mean, I didn’t hate (most of) the others, but I just haven’t lovvvved any of them.  I don’t know?  It’s just not been my year “in books”.  Let me know if you feel the same.

Speaking of which, let’s dive in to this month(s)’ book review(s) starting with…

All Her Little Secrets by Wanda M. Morris

This novel right here checked the “suspense” box for me this time.  This is the story of a woman who becomes head of the legal department at her corporation when her boss is murdered in his office…oh yeah, and she was having an affair with him.  Now, she’s trying to figure out who did it (while also trying to keep it under wraps that they were having an affair), and she realizes her ex-con brother had a friendship/business relationship with him too.

Set in Georgia, this novel had all the makings of a great thriller.  I liked it and couldn’t wait to pick it back up each day, buuuut I thought the ending fell flat.  I just felt like there could have been *more*.  It entertained me, it kept me guessing, I thought it was really insightful and (probably very) realistic about being a high-power Black associate at a company that isn’t diverse…buuuut again, I thought the ending was abrupt and lacking a chapter or two.  Based on the year I’ve been having in books though, I would say it was worth the read.

Carrie Soto is Back by Taylor Jenkins Reid

I LOVED THIS BOOK!  Ladies, this novel right here was hands down one of the best I’ve read all year.  Taylor Jenkins Reid, you’ve done it again!  If you’ll recall, in 2017, I selected her novel, One True Loves, as my favorite book of the entire year, and then in 2019, I selected her novel Daisy Jones & The Six as my third favorite book of the year…so needless to say, I’m a fan.

This right here is Reid’s latest novel, and it is just so FUN and ORIGINAL.  This is a fictitious story about a former world champion tennis player who, after about a decade of being retired, decides to go back out there again.  I’m not even a tennis person (see my review of Andre Agassi’s book HERE!), but I did not want this story to end.  Not only that, but I want to sit down with the author and ask her all sorts of questions.  I read every page of the acknowledgments but I still have so many questions.  How did you make this novel so electrifying?  So accurate?  So emotional and yet FUN?  If you are looking for just a unique, clever, and original book, here you go.  The details about tennis will blow your mind.  I felt like I learned so much while also LOVING the lead.

You guys, this one is GREATNESS!   Read it!

I’m Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy

Annnnnd then there is this one.

Deep breath.

Okay, I had seen this book floating around all over social media.  This is a memoir written by an actress who played in the Nickelodeon show iCarly years ago.  I mean, my kids used to watch that show, so I had a frame of reference, but I wasn’t really that invested in this actor.  Buuuut the title of the book (hello!) along with how many people were talking about it on the internet, made me want to give it a read.  My honest opinion?  I lost sleep over this one.  The night I read the final page and realized “this is it”, I tossed and turned all night.  You guys…this story is painful.

In a nutshell, this is the story of child abuse (sexually, physically and emotionally), neglect, starvation, and narcistic behavior just to name a few.  When the book ended, I was mad for her.  I feel like people should be in jail right now (her father, brothers and grandparents for allowing this abuse!).  I was just so disturbed.  The writer does say she’s in therapy now, but seriously, I think it was too soon to write the book.  I just felt terrible for her…I feel like her story needs to be told, but she didn’t seem healthy enough to be telling it yet (clearly, my opinion).  You guys, this was just rough.  I wish I wouldn’t have read it.  I just felt icky all over and angry.

Speaking of memoirs…

Live Wire by Kelly Ripa

…one of my faves wrote a book of short stories about her life.  Hmmmm…I’ve loved Kelly Ripa for years and years.  After reading her book, do I like her more or less?  I’m going to say less.

Sigh.

Ugh.

Here’s the deal, I really loved the chapter she wrote about her three kids leaving the nest.  That chapter made me tear up.  That chapter was really powerful.  The other chapters?  She complained about a wholllllle lot of people.  She complained about her mom, she complained about her job on the soap opera, and she complained quite a bit about Regis and Live.  I just feel like Ripa must have so many other amazing stories to tell about her life…she’s interviewed so many famous people, traveled the world, been a New Yorker for 30+ years…so many great things.  Why she spent an entire book alluding to the fact that Live didn’t “make her”, she doesn’t like it, she really doesn’t like anything about her career…blows my mind.

Chalk this up to another book I wish I wouldn’t have read.

Part of Your World by Abby Jimenez

Well this book was certainly a breath of fresh air after the last two.  This is basically an R-rated version of a Hallmark movie.  Ha!

A big city girl has car trouble in a small town and the adorable mayor stops to help…and thus, the perfect little chick lit was born.

I needed this happiness.  I needed this lightness.  I loved the setting, the characters…I loved the fact that my brain didn’t hurt and I didn’t feel icky when I would pick it up each night.  It’s cute, it’s predictable and it made me want to read every night.  If you’re looking for light-hearted chick-lit, here you go.

Black Cake by Charmaine Wilkerson

Sooooo many of you told me to read this book, so…I did.

Hmmmmm…I didn’t love it.

This one reads a bit more heavy (think Where The Crawdads Sing) and would be considered a meatier fiction, but, I just thought it was a bit too (for lack of a better word) repetitive for me.  I loved the plot…a mom dies which brings her two estranged adult kids back together to hear her attorney play a recording of their mother’s last wishes/thoughts which reveals a huge secret and a lot of questions for them.  Yes, loved that!  What I didn’t love was that I felt the whole book could have moved more quickly.  The story lagged for me and kept going back to details already established which just made it feel long and boring.  By the end, I was happy it was over which stinks because it had the makings of a great book.  This one just wasn’t for me.

Lease on Love by Falon Ballard

Annnnnd I’m finishing the month with this book here.

Ugggg…it was okay.

This is another easy to read chick-lit book about a woman who leases a room from an isolated bachelor.  It’s cute, a little quirky and very happy/upbeat…but I didn’t love it because I thought it was a little too gratuitous with the rated R business.  The main character cusses the entire time which just didn’t seem necessary and the sexual content was not always super relevant to the story.  Honestly, I think the story suffered because the language alone was distracting to the plot.

So boo.  Seven books and only two that I liked.  Now, this next month, I will continue my tradition of just reading holiday books so that when I review them at the end of November, you’ll know what to read in December.  I have a nice list already of books I plan on reading, but if you have suggestions, please share them!  If you have other non-holiday book suggestions, I’ll always take those too.

Here are holiday books I’ve recommended in the past if you’re looking for one right now too…

So, that was my September & October Book Review!

Again, I apologize for the delay!  I promise not to let it happen again.

Don’t forget…

To see the complete list of books I read in 2015 (all 63 of them), click here.
To see the complete list of books I read in 2016 (all 62 of them), click here.
To see the complete list of books I read in 2017 (all 62 of them), click here.
To see the complete list of books I read in 2018 (all 61 of them), click here.
To see the complete list of books I read in 2019 (all 54 of them), click here.
To see the complete list of books I read in 2020 (all 54 of them), click here.
To see the complete list of books I read in 2021 (all 59 of them), click here.

That wraps up Book Day!  Sending you all so much love on this Thursday! I’ll see all of you back here tomorrow! xx

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Comments

  1. Kristen Thompson says

    Man I was really hoping for some good books here as I’ve been in a rut lately as well! The one book you loved, I already read (and also loved) lol! I just finished Mad Honey by Jodi Picoult and Jennifer Finney Boylan. I had a hard time putting it down, it was very eye opening! I am also reading the sequel to It Ends with Us, It starts with Us and I like it so far!! Good luck next month with the holiday book, hope some of those are better!!

    • Jackie pontius says

      Kristen,

      Lol! You took my words right out of my mouth except I already finished It Starts With Us. I share the exact same opinion on all the books you mentioned. Hoping someone maybe found a gem because nothing new is catching my eye. I agree with Shay, this year’s books have been underwhelming.

  2. Susan Jeffries says

    After my Dad passed away two years ago, I was unable to pick up a book for almost a year. I was able to start reading again this year so I have really enjoyed several books. I loved The Silent Patient, The Lost Girls of Willowbrook, The Magic of Lemon Drop Pie, The It Girl, What She Left Behind and The Great Alone. I would recommend all of them(: I am looking forward to some fun Christmas books and making a list to books TBR for 2023. Thanks for the suggestions! Carrie Soto is on my list!

    • Mix and Match Mama says

      I’m so sorry about your loss, Susan. I need to check out several of these recs!

      • June Pope says

        I haven’t read Kelly’s book and was wondering how it would play out. I watched her for years and over time have just had to give up on her. She seems entitled now to say anything about anyone. Sure, Regis was older than her and maybe not relevant to her any more but can you imagine what this book does to his family?
        Also I just read one of Reese’s book club recommendations and it was wonderful.. Firekeeper’s Daughter. It’s her first book! I thought it was amazing.

        • KL says

          Hello! I just wanted to give my perspective on this book. I loved it! Thought it was so funny and that Kelly did a great job telling random stories about her life. To me, it just seemed like she was making fun of herself a good bit. I appreciate her sarcastic humor. I also thought she was very fair in her description of her relationship with Regis. It wasn’t a perfect relationship, but she seemed to admire him greatly and think a lot of him. I don’t think his family should be offended at all! I’m interested to hear what others think.

          • Carolyn H says

            I totally agree KL! I listened to the audiobook and enjoyed hearing her tell these stories and I thought she was very fair about Regis. She’s been on the show like 20 years why shouldn’t she get to share her experiences positive and negative? I always liked Regis, but I was with her when she shared how he went on that show or podcast and said he doesn’t get invited back or hear from anyone and he had just been on the Halloween special.

    • Rebecca says

      What she left behind is one of the few books that just has always stayed with me. Very powerful.

    • Lisa N says

      Love the way you describe the books you read. You do such a great job as a reviewer!
      As for Kelly Ripa, I always thought it said a lot about her that Regis didn’t talk about her much outside of the show and after he retired (“if you don’t have something nice to say, don’t say anything at all”). He was a class act.
      Thanks for the Christmas read list❤️💚

  4. Eileen says

    It Ends With Us is by Colleen Hoover, not Taylor Jenkins Reid. You have to check out her sequel – It Starts With Us. I’m really enjoying it so far! I also really liked Carrie Soto Is Back. So original!

    • Jennibell says

      I think the TJR you are thinking about is One True Loves. One of my ALL TIME favorites (along with It Ends With Us)
      Have you read Tyler Merritt’s “I Take My Coffee Black”?? I have recommended it it to EVERYONE I know, whether they are readers or not. Just finished The German Wife…another “must read” in my opinion.
      Carrie Soto Is Back was excellent (I am a tennis player and I recommended it to lots of people) BUT I did not like Carrie. I liked every other character, just not her 🙁
      Anyway, I’ve had a tough time with books this year too but these last few have been GREAT. Please, please read “I Take My Coffee Black” – I just ordered the audio version so we can listen to it as a family and I can HEAR him tell his story 🙂

    • Courtney V says

      IVE been in a rut as well. I just read it starts with us-Colleen Hoover- I think you’ll enjoy it. I also read Daisy Darker- Alice Feeney- good Halloween read. The guncle is a good story- easy and chic lit. Over the summer I really enjoyed The Lost Summers of Newport- Beatriz Williams Lauren Willig and Karen White. Great story, historical fiction.

  5. Sheaffer says

    I’ve heard a lot of bad press about Kelly’s book. I haven’t even read it (obviously), and I like her less too.

    • Tara says

      I’ve also been a fan of Kelly Ripa and I was torn about picking this one up! So disappointing to hear- she’s such a great storyteller and all the complaining people have said is in the book is just sad.

    • Kate says

      I haven’t read it either but from why I’ve heard that was a bold moving not being appreciative of Live while she still works there!

    • Amy says

      I ended up returning the kindle book in under 24 hours to get my money back. I love Kelly Ripa. But, I started reading the book and it was just all over the place. And so much repetition! Big thumbs down for me!

  6. Natasha says

    Above you say you selected “It Ends With Us” by TJR as your favourite book of the year, except Colleen Hoover wrote “It Ends With Us.” Your review of it is what got me reading a whole ton of Colleen Hoover books.

    And I agree, this has been a rough year of reading for me too. Something about 2022 has not been great for books.

  7. Mandy says

    I read Wrong Place Wrong Time from Reese’s Sept book club this month. It was really thought provoking and different.

    I LOVED Part of Your World. I also read it after a few heavier books and found it to be a breath of fresh air.

    Looking forward to some holiday book recs!

    • Jackie pontius says

      Kristen,

      Lol! You took my words right out of my mouth except I already finished It Starts With Us. I share the exact same opinion on all the books you mentioned. Hoping someone maybe found a gem because nothing new is catching my eye. I agree with Shay, this year’s books have been underwhelming.

  8. Katie S. says

    I felt the same way about Kelly Ripa’s book. She makes me want to drink coffee and have a chat with my gal pals, every single time I watch her on Live! But, I didn’t understand the push to complain about everything? It made me kind of sad for Regis, and it changed my overall opinion of her, sadly!

  9. Amber says

    I was so excited to see two of the books I just read on your list this month…but you didn’t like them. I loved both memoirs but I listened to the audio versions, both of which were narrated by the author. I wonder if I would have felt differently if I had read them without their tone of voice? Either way – I loved them both. Definitely still have a pit in my stomach for Jeannette though. Her story is heavy and it will stay with me forever. I will say, I read the book after hearing her interviewed on the Armchair Expert podcast and she was much lighter/happier than she is in the book. I don’t think the book brings you to present day if that makes sense.

  11. Lisa D says

    I’ve been finding some great books: my favorite so far this year is Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt. It’s sweet and light and just a really good book! Other terrific books I’ve recently read are — Under The Golden Sun by Jenny Ashcroft, Peach Blossom Spring by Melissa Fu, Ghosted by Rosie Walsh, and The Bodyguard by Katherine Center. I highly recommend all of these!

  12. Reba says

    If you haven’t read “All About Us” by Tom Ellen, I totally recommend it for one of your November books!

    It’s a modern take on A Christmas Carol, and it’s set in England. Win-win.

  13. Jodie Kingsbury says

    I just started Kelly Ripa’s book. I agree with your review of it. Loved reading your book reviews and have added so many to my kindle because of your reviews.

  14. Jennifer Goodwin says

    I recently read The City Girl’s Guide to Country Living by Louise Miller- have you read it? Also, Christmas in London by Anita Hughes is excellent. I’m going to check out your holiday faves- I wholeheartedly agree on Winter Street series by EH…I recommend those to so many people! I am sorry to hear you didn’t love your books this month…again. Life is too short to read only mediocre books! This is the reason why I don’t buy too often, unless I KNOW I’ll love it.

  15. Amy says

    I really enjoyed the restaurant at Christmas by Pamela Kelley it is the sequel of the restaurant and takes place on Nantucket. I loved both!

  16. Pamela says

    I couldn’t agree more about Kelly Rippa’s book…if she is so miserable then move on…I really disliked her book! Thank you so much for all your book reviews.

  17. Katie Compton says

    If you’re looking for a light and funny read I highly recommend Schooled by Ted Fox. I stumbled upon it in one of my “recommended for you” Kindle emails. It’s about a stay at home dad who is running against his arch nemesis for PTA President. It’s like a dad version of Class Mom! I think you’d love it. It had me cracking up!

    I’m read Evvie Drake Starts Over right now and I’m really enjoying it!

    • Katie Compton says

      Meant to add… “his HIGH SCHOOL arch nemesis”. That’s what makes the story! Hahaha

  18. Patti Rooney says

    I agree that this has been a disappointing year for books. But “Carrie Soto is back” was a bright spot for me also.

    I just finished “The Frederick Sisters are Living the Dream” and “Remarkably Bright Creatures” and loved both of them.

    Happy reading!

  19. Melissa Terry says

    I don’t feel like I’ve LOVED many of the books I’ve read this year either…sigh. But I did just finish The Magnificent Lives of Marjorie Post (which I loved) and am on the waiting list at the library for Carrie Soto. I’m also looking forward to Matthew Perry’s memoir which releases next week if you are looking for a memoir suggestion.

  20. Jen says

    Great reviews this month! I always appreciate when you share the “bad” ones, too…there are so many good books out there, I have no interest in wasting my time on a bad one! Agree with you about Kelly’s book…I started it and it didn’t take me long to decide I didn’t need to finish it. Currently reading the latest Longmire book (this series is so not my usual style but I love it so much!) and Carrie Soto is on my TBR pile…I bought the hard back instead of the Kindle version, and it seems like the “real” books always get pushed aside because they are such a pain to carry around LOL. Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow (by the author of The Storied Life of AJ Fikry – one of my faves!) is up after that! Can’t wait to see what holiday books you find this year!

  21. Kari Maddox says

    Jennifer Weiyner’s ALL FALL DOWN – released this month and in her usual style, REALLY realistic and heavy on the laughter

  23. Renee says

    I always enjoy your book reviews! I am one of the people who loved Black Cake! It is my favorite books so far this year. I also loved Carrie Soto!

  24. Mary says

    I am recommending you read Big Lies in a Small Town by Diane Chamberlain. I know you read one of her books earlier this year and did not like it, but seriously Big Lies is soooo good!! Suspense, twists and turns, and lots of surprises. I really think you should give her another chance! Big Lies was my fav book of 2020!!

  25. Colleen Chulis says

    Just finished ROGUES by Patrick Radden Keefe – different and a good one. I would recommend it!

  26. Taylor says

    I’m glad my mom died was also a very tough read for me. It took me two weeks to read it because I had to put it down after every chapter. Her moms behavior was absolutely horrifying but I also couldn’t get over her grandma’s behavior either!! I agree-so many of her family members should be in jail. It was a very raw book.

  27. Sheila DeSpirito says

    I was disappointed that you didn’t like Black Cake. Out of all the books I’ve read so far this year it’s my only five star read. I guess I’m with you Shay in the fact that no book has bowled me over. I know there has to be some great books out there but where are they. Happy Reading!

  28. L Basinger says

    You should totally read the Thursday murder club books by Richard Osman. They’re pretty cute!

  29. Robin says

    I’ve been having a rough year finding good books so…..I WAS SO EXCITED to see this post!!!!!!! 🤗

  30. Lindsay says

    I totally agree about Kelly Ripas book! It was such a disappointment, and she came off so negative and vain. I felt like the stories didn’t have any cohesiveness, and some were just boring when knowing all she could have shared!

  31. KG says

    Is there a prequel book to read before the new Taylor Jenkins Reid book? I always hate when I grab a book not know there are 1 or more that “come before it” which are then almost not worth reading because you already know what ultimately happens! That happened to me with Wendy Wax books, whom I’ve found I really enjoy reading. You may want to check her out!

  32. Chaeli says

    Thank you for your honesty! I share a lot of the same sentiments and it’s nice to have a book review I can TRUST. Thank you!

  33. SS says

    Not an adult book, but had to share. We are reading Sign of the Beaver. I read it years ago with older kiddos and now with youngest. I forgot how good it is. If your kiddo is looking for a book about beginning pioneer days check this out. It is a chapter book. As a librarian once told me, kids books sometimes are written for that group, but adults enjoy it just as much.

  34. KD says

    Two good books I’ve read lately are The Family (fiction about two girls growing up in mafia families) and Yinka, Where is your Huzband? Both were great on audio, esp the second one, but would be good in print too.
    Oh also, if you’re in the mood for a captivating coming of age story, I loved This Tender Land!

  35. Carole says

    Agree about Carrie Soto! It’s so frustrating to get a bad ending on a book. My favs lately were The Bodyguard, Nora Goes Off Script, and The Matchmakers of Minnow Bay. But I probably got those from you! LOL

  36. Brooke says

    I’d recommend Viola Shipman as an excellent author overall, but especially holiday books; specifically The Secret of Snow. He (Wade) writes under a pen name as an honorable memorial to his grandmother: Viola. He wrote a new Christmas book for 2022: A Wish for Winter. They’re generally chick lit with a good life lesson woven in !

  37. Holly says

    I loved Carrie Soto too…it took me awhile to get into it (I know nothing about tennis), but once I did I couldn’t put it down. A great one for sure. Also, I finally read The Girl with the Louding Voice (based on the reviews here), and it was fantastic!! I have now recommended / sent it to everyone I know. Here are my thoughts on other books I’ve read recently –

    Remarkably Bright Creatures – 5 stars. I thought I wouldn’t like it but I did. One of my best this year.
    West with Giraffes – 4 stars. Learned a lot from this one. Will pass along to my teens to read.
    The It Girl and Daisy Darker – both of these fell flat for me.

    Quick question – my dear friend’s dad is going through cancer treatment right now, and my friend and her mom are really appreciating good, easy book recommendations. They are not chick lit / thriller people. They loved Crawdads, and Lessons in Chemistry. Any suggestions much appreciated.

    • Mix and Match Mama says

      Oh I just hate that for their family. I love Beatriz Williams! One Hundred Summers, The Secret Life of Violet Grant and of course, Our Woman in Moscow (my FAVORITE BOOK FROM LAST YEAR!!) would all be great!

    • Margaret says

      Praying for your friend and family. I would recommend these: The Last Bookshop in London by Madeline Martin, The secret Life of cee cee Wilkes by Diane Chamberlain, Have you seen Luis Velez By Catherine Ruan Hyde, The extraordinary life of Sam Hell…

    • Jennibell says

      If they liked Crawdads they might also like Girls in the Stilt House. Another one I would recommend is “Big Lies in a Small Town”. Nora Goes Off Script might be too “chick lit” but is light like Chemistry.
      Books are such a great gift and a way to take you mind off difficult things.
      Read the BW books in order!!! I didn’t and although it really doesn’t matter, it would have been more fun that way 🙂

  38. Molly says

    Wondering what you will think of It Starts With Us!! Thanks for doing your book reviews, I always look forward to them!

  39. Kate says

    Hi, Shay. I have read some of these books, too, and totally agree with your reviews.
    I want to highly recommend Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus.

  40. MelanieL says

    I read Daisy Jones and The Six last month and apparently missed that it was about on a fictitious band because I was so captivated that I googled the band, LOL! Taylor Jenkins Reid is a genius! Looking forward the reading Carrie Soto is Back. I don’t want to ruin my love for iCarly by reading McCurdy’s book (I’m 42, lol) so I might skip now.
    P.S. I don’t know why your reviews of the books you don’t like crack me up but they do! 🙂

  42. Taylor says

    Have you read Lauren Graham’s novel, Someday, Someday, Maybe?? I was super reluctant because I REALLY didn’t want to not like it… I love her, love her memoir, and I didn’t want to be disappointed. But I really enjoyed it!!

  43. LSilva says

    I just finished The Winners by Fredrik Backman which is the last in the series beginning with Beartown. The whole series is so so good. If you love books that explore family dynamics, community, and sports, these books combine all 3 and will have you completely invested in each character. I recommend them to everybody I know.

  44. Debbie K. says

    I read my favorite book of the year so far in January, and the characters and plot have stayed with me all year. Now hear me out..It’s Flying Angels by Danielle Steele. I used to devour her books in my teens and early 20’s, then moved away from them. I saw the cover of this book before I saw the author’s name, if that makes sense. I loved it so much that I recommended it to my fellow teacher bestie who teaches US History, because the entire time I was reading it I couldn’t stop thinking she would love it too. And she did! The Flying Angels is a historical fiction about the nurses who flew to the battle fields to take care of injured soldiers during WWII. It is fiction, so there is the love story parts of it too. But you didn’t hear about these brave women in high school history class! I couldn’t stop reading it. There were some tears, but I finished with wanting it to go on… not like I was left hanging. I just didn’t want it to end.

  45. Jessie says

    Always love your book reviews!!! And never apologize for missing-we all have to say “no” sometimes and it’s perfectly ok😘 I recently read Drive and Reverse by Kate Stewart and LOVED them both! Non-holiday but so good!

  46. Gretchen Dall says

    Hooray for book review day! I have loved all of Taylor Jenkins Reid’s books and especially all the little nuggets that link them together! Currently reading Demon Copperfield by Barbara Kingsolver, who wrote my all time favorite The Poisonwood Bible. It’s heavy but good. I felt the same way about Kelly Ripa’s book- but did find it better when I listened to it instead of reading. Happy Thursday!

  47. Carly says

    I really loved Kelly Ripa before I read her book. So much complaining and honestly just terrible writing. It has been a rough year in books. Marrying the Ketcups (same author who wrote Girls in White Dresses and The Smart One) was decent. Meant to Be and Rivals were also okay. Cover Story was cute and then the last page, shocked me!! Overall Nothing groundbreaking but might perk up the rut a bit!

  48. Taylor says

    Two of the best books I’ve read this year are Indigo Girl (historical fiction based on a real person), and Nora Goes Off Script. Also loved The Bodyguard.

    • Kimberly says

      Agree! Nora Goes off Script and Bodyguard were good. Also loved When In Rome by Sarah Adams

  49. DeeAnn M says

    So happy your book review is back!!! I loved Carrie Soto is Back too… such a great read!!!!!! I HIGHLY recommend Remarkably Bright Creatures.. hands down the BEST book Ive read all year. I thought the plot sounded absurd, but it is beautifully written and simply wonderful!!!

  50. JV says

    I haven’t read the other Shopaholic books – do I need to, for Christmas Shopaholic to make sense? Or does it stand on it’s own?

  51. Debbie Dankelson says

    I’ve always been a huge fan of Kelly Ripa. Went to a LIVE show while in NYC several years ago. Reading her book changed my opinion of her and I hate that! I couldn’t even get through it. After seeing your review, I’ll find the empty nest chapter to read as it hits close to home. I really wish I hadn’t read the book as well.

  52. Deb says

    If you liked Part of Your World and haven’t read any of her other books yet, go back and read them. They are all similar – somewhat predictable, but likeable characters and she often shares characters between books. (I think her next book coming out next year focuses on the friend Bri from Part of Your World. ). She’s my absolute favorite author right now, Witty dialogue and fun, easy reds.

    • Ginny says

      Yes, yes, yes! Abby Jimenez books have become my fave romcoms!! So fun and quick to read! Butbwith a bit of depth. I definitely recommend all of them! I got to read the one coming out next year – Yours Truly – and it’s another great one!
      Shay – try Lovelight Farms for a Christmas book. Had a bit of spice, but great feel good romcom.

  53. Lisa says

    Grateful for your reviews! There’s always a few new books that get added to my list. The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah had been in my TBR pile for the last year and a half and I finally decided to read it. It was so good!! Loved Carrie Soto too! Thanks for taking the hits on the duds you save us from wasting our time reading them🙂

  54. Kay says

    Hi Shay-
    I’m so glad to see your book review again! And also, really sorry you’ve been having a rough book year. I’ve been there. I’ve had so many good picks this year I’m going to have trouble coming up with one clear winner! Here is what I suggest (and I think you haven’t mentioned yet…)
    -‘Nothing to See Here’. I thought this would be so crazy as it doesn’t seem realistic, but they make it VERY real. Such a refreshing new read!

    -Anatomy-A total departure from what I normally read but REALLY good

    -The Book of Lost Names (maybe you’ve read this) but it was FABULOUS. Like amazing. Similar vein of ‘Tattooist of Auschwitz” but also amazing focus on mother-daughter relationships, descriptions of the French countryside and a love story.

    -‘The Last House on the Street’ not light but VERY good and important read

    ‘Marrying the Ketchups’ I LOVE this author. Great family drama with the backdrop of restaurant ownership and mom friend-politics

    ‘More than you’ll ever know’ the secret double life of a woman who is searching for love and meaning. Also kind of a murder mystery

    Mad honey-really really good. Almost, but not quite! as good of a twist as “Wish you were here”

    I hope that helps give you some suggestions! And also, Matthew Perry’s autobiography is supposed to be great. I know you enjoyed ‘Friends!’

  55. Jan says

    Just finished Never Saw Me Coming by Vera Kurian. It’s a fast-paced whodunit thriller about a group of known psychopaths at college. Such a fun and twisty read!

  57. Lauren B says

    I just finished Love and Other Words by Christina Lauren and I HIGHLY recommend. I couldn’t put it down–finished it in 2 days!

    • Kim says

      Me too! I enjoyed it so much! Then I read Every Summer After. I’m still not over it! I was obsessed!

  58. Cindy Rowen says

    If you like historical fiction I recommend two books by Christine Wells – Sisters of the Resistance and One Woman’s War. I don’t usually read two books by the same author back-to-back, but after finishing One Woman’s War I searched for more!

  61. Amber Friehe says

    I just finished Salt to Sea by Ruta Septey and it was a gripping historical fiction set at the end of WWII. I couldn’t put it down! I just started another one by her called Between Shades of Gray and it’s sucked me in as well.

    • Sarah Neas says

      Fountains of Silence by the same author is really good! It is a well written historical fiction set in Spain during Franco’s reign.

  62. Kathleen says

    Highly, HIGHLY recommend Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow! I’m a big reader and it’s the best book I’ve read in years.

  63. Andrea says

    I loved Carrie Soto too and I just finished It starts with us. Really quick and easy read and I love CH. Have you read the Finlay Donovan books? Start with Finlay Donovan is Killing it. They have a little mystery, light thriller, romance, and humor all in one. You may like those. I think there are 3 in all.

  64. Jenny N says

    I have always like Kelly Ripa but when the book came out and I started reading all the press about it I started to like her much less. I just think coming out and saying the “negative” things about Live and Regis is wrong. If you weren’t happy, then leave! Yes, she was on a soap opera, but Live definitely made her and to say otherwise is very wrong!

  65. Kit says

    Would LOVE if you share some holiday books recs a bit earlier! Also what were the four books that you DID like so far this year!? Totally relate!

  66. Stephanie says

    Have you read any of Colleen Hoover’s books? I see a lot of buzz about them on social media, but just curious if you have read any and what your thoughts are?!

  68. Katy says

    Not sure if you watch the series, but if you do would love to hear your thoughts on the Virgin River books vs. Neflix series! I personally LOVED the books, so much so that it was hard to watch the first few episodes because you know when you have an image in your head from the books and the TV/movies doesn’t capture it?? But then, like many other tv shows I got hooked haha

  69. Jessica says

    Carrie Soto on my list too! I’ll have to move it up to the top of the pile. I just finished The City Baker’s Guide to Country Living- it’s a total Shay Book. You will love it!

  70. Amy Owens says

    I haven’t read Kelly Ripa’s book, but what you described kind of sums up my thoughts of her in general now. I used to LOVE her and the show. It didn’t matter who her partner was, I just loved her. The last few years I’ve felt she’s just become very negative and political on there. I’ve totally stopped watching. Maybe it’s time for her to pass on the baton if she can’t be a light on the show anymore. That’s too bad. Can’t wait for the holiday recs!

  71. Brenda Thompson says

    I haven’t yet read Carrie Soto but I did get the chance to see her live in front of a sold out crowd in St. Louis to promote her book! She said this was the last book in the series that are loosely connected (Mick Riva makes an appearance in many of her recent books). She also said she read (and loved) Open while researching to write the book as she knew nothing about tennis! I can’t wait to read it!!

    My favorite book so far this year has been This Tender Land by William Kent Krueger. It is a brilliantly written book that is a little historic fiction, some tragedy, a little adventure, coming of age, and just a heart warming story about life, loss and love. It just spoke to my soul! Another favorite this year was The Nature of Fragile Things by Susan Meissner. It was a historical fiction that read like a thriller! So good!

  72. Sonia Limon says

    Darnit! ! I have to say I as hoping for a real good book to jump into. I read Verity last week and I wish so badly I would have read your review on it from a few years back becuase I HATED it!!! It was disturbing and sick and I threw it in the trash as soon as I finished reading it. Not even worthy of sharing with ANYONE!! I was hoping to find a great recommendation to clear my head after that read. Im going to try Carrie Soto is Back. Fingers crosed it clears my head from that mess… Keep em coming Shay!!!

  73. Angie R says

    Relatable on not finding good reads this year. Everything I’ve read was pretty much just ok. The ones I’ve really liked lately are Charles Martins Letter Keeper series, and I just read Where The Crawdad Sings ahead of seeing the movie – but I know I’m late to the party on that book. The Maid was a good book, similar to Rosie Project with a little mystery twist. Book Lovers was a cute read that I did enjoy. Awaiting “The Magnificent Lives of Marjorie Post”, “The Book of Lost Friends” and “The German Wife” to come available at my library.

  74. sandi says

    I have only read a few books this year that were outstanding. Some in this review were on my to read list and now I’ve marked them off 🙂 Will be coming back for the comments and book recommendations from others.

  75. Colleen T says

    LOVE your blog and especially your book reviews. I had a year where I didn’t love the books I read and it is a bummer for sure. This year I have to say it is the same bummer. Lots of book but none I’m shouting out to recommend. Thanks for the holiday book list, I LOVE reading holiday books around the holiday so fun. I’m reading the 3rd Beartown book (The Winners by Fredrick Backman) and i LOVED the first two but this one is just ok. But if haven’t read the 1st two they are great. I’m excited to read the new It Starts with Us by Colleen Hoover (the sequel) and the sequel to The Family Upstairs, both book I believe you read and were amazing. Thanks for your recommendations!

  76. Sarah says

    I listened to Live Wire and I thought it was really good hearing Kelly tell the story. I can see how if you just read it, it would seem complaining but for some reason it didn’t come across that way when I was listening to her read it.

    And I need some good Christmas books in my life – can’t wait to get those going!

    • Amanda says

      I agree. I just finished listening to Kelly Ripa’s book on Audible today and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I thought she was pretty fair in her commentary and descriptions. Maybe it just doesn’t come across that way on the page.

      I didn’t love Carrie Soto character in Malibu Rising although her appearance was brief. But maybe I’ll give it a try. After all I’m up for a good tennis story (and I did love your Andre Agassi review!! 🙂 ).

      I’m currently reading the Younger Wife by Sally Hepworth!

  77. maria says

    Thank you for your honest book reviews. I look forward to them every month. I have read several of your selections and found The Winter Street series through you. I tell everyone I know to read it! I am sad about the Kelly Ripa book and I guess I won’t be running out to get it anytime soon, bummer!! I don’t have a good rec right now as I am trying to finish a book that was meh! Looking forward to reading some of the other winter picks.

  78. Haley says

    Glad I’m not the only one who’s not into Kelly Ripa’s book. In fact, I’m probably half done, and I had forgotten I was reading it, it’s so boring. Are we supposed to feel bad for you that you had a bad experience once, getting your hair and makeup done?? Wah. Looking forward to the two I’ve now added to my list though – Carrie Soto and Part of Your World. Thanks!

  79. Kelly Chen says

    Okay, I’m glad I’m not alone because it’s probably my least favorite year in books too. I didn’t hate most of them, but I haven’t loved any of them either. Here’s to hoping for better books in 2023!

  80. Valerie says

    iCarly and Sam and Cat were both Nickelodeon shows 🙂

    Counterfeit by Kristin Chen was a very enjoyable book. Also highly recommend Beautiful Country by Qian Julie Wang

  81. Abby says

    Surprised to say- My favorite memoir this year was A Very Punchable Face by Colin Jost. I think you’d like it!! Very well written and packed with information and anecdotes about SNL, Harvard, and 9/11.

  83. Amy Heinl says

    Last year , I was gifted for Christmas The Secret of Snow by Viola Shipman. It was a wonderful Christmas story and I fell in love with author I had never read this book. So I have now been reading through all their books and this month I read 3 more Viola Shipman books…The Secret of Summer, The Hope Chest and The Receipe Box. All 3 were excellent books. I actually end up highlighting sections of the book because there are so many little hidden gems in the love story. I am anxiously awaiting their new Christmas novel that releases in a few weeks. Strongly recommend you check this author out

    Just started The Lost and Found Bookshop by Susan Wiggs this week. She is one of my favorite authors and it is so good. The lead character inherits a financially stopped bookshop in San Fransisco. There is some mystery and suspense with the artifacts hidden in the bookshops wall dropped against a rom com romance

  84. Heather says

    I was so anxious to hear your review of Carrie Soto! Sadly, I have what is, I guess, the unpopular opinion of not caring much for it. I have loved TJR’s other books. And while the story was compelling, I just couldn’t get past what a jerk Carrie was! I get that she had some unique experiences that shaped her, but nothing endeared me to her. Even in the end, it just wasn’t enough for me to forget her whole career of being a jerk! Sigh. I’m glad others liked it so much though. And I’m looking forward to discussing it at my book club this weekend. Maybe that will help change my mind about it!

  85. Jana says

    I’m reading Carrie Soto is Back right now, so I was holding my breath until I read your review. Whew, I’m glad I won’t be disappointed, because I am already loving it! I have not read, “I’m Glad My Mom is Dead.” However, I did watch her on Red Table Talk (Jada Pinkett-Smith’s show on Facebook), and it was hard to hear, but you can tell she’s put in the mental work.

  87. KL says

    I guess I am one of the only ones here, but I loved Kelly Ripa‘s book. I thought it was funny, and I appreciated her sarcastic humor. I also thought that her description of her relationship with Regis was honest and very thoughtful. She doesn’t sugarcoat that it wasn’t perfect, but she also praises him and seems to admire him in her own way.

    • Jennifer says

      I totally agree with this! Straightforward and honest but also respectful and gave praise where praise was due.

  88. Deby says

    Recently read Remarkable Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt. It is fiction, a little heavier than chick lit. But just loved the characters and the writing.

  89. Laura says

    Have you read The Flatshare by Beth O’Leary? I am not typically a chick-lit fan and really enjoyed this one!

  90. Linda says

    My two favorite books of 2022 (so far) are Exceptionally Bright Creatures and Lessons in Chemistry.

  91. Jen C says

    I’m currently reading “The Wife” by Alafair Burke – so far so good! The story is from the viewpoint of a few different characters…..and there are so many questions along the way, it just makes you want to keep reading!

  92. Christi McAnally says

    Adding Carrie Sotto to my list. I recently read The Measure by Nikki Erlick. I thought it was very thought provoking and unlike any book I have read before. I believe it would be a great book club pick.

  94. Kiki says

    Best book so far this year has been:
    Lessons In Chemistry. OMG it was so good.

    Now I’m reading Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow which I think will also be a top book.

    Also enjoyed Evvie Drake Starts Over and Flying Solo.

  95. Beth says

    The way you felt about Kelly Ripa’s book is how I felt about Katie Couric’s biography. I liked the stories and details about making up her way up the ladder of her career, but she complained and felt whiney to me. Your sentence about liking them less after reading the book was 100% how I felt about Katie. You nailed it!

    I have added new titles to my “must read” list. I always appreciate your reviews! Keep them coming.

  96. Heidi says

    Well I guess I am in the rather small group of people who actually LOVED Kelly Ripa’s book. I listened to the audiobook, so maybe hearing her read it made a difference? I feel like I need to go back and read it again now because I really don’t remember a lot of complaining. Even though her life does not resemble mine in any way, I have always really identified with her sarcastic / over-the-top / self-deprecating sense of humor. I thought she spoke about Regis as delicately and respectfully as she could…especially since he spoke negatively about her in the press for years before he passed away. (Why did no one challenge him when he said he had never been invited back to the show? There was actual video evidence to the contrary!) She began the book by repeatedly saying that this was NOT a memoir, and she called it just a collection of stories. I’m sure she could have spilled a lot more controversial “tea” but she stuck to some mostly funny personal stories that I really enjoyed. 🙂

  97. Christine says

    Hi! I’m glad you reviewed Kelly Rippa’s book. Kathy Lee said she isn’t going to read it. Any titles to add to the Christmas book list?

    Thank you!

  99. Joanne says

    I’m currently reading 7 Husbands by TJR & have One True Loves waiting in my book basket from the stack I just picked up yesterday from the library. I didn’t like Daisy Jones much but will definitely give Soto a try.

  100. Jen says

    I have had more misses than hits this year with my reading. I have returned so many books that were recommended to me after only 20% because I just didn’t like them. Reading is my escape, and this year has been a bust.

  101. Melanie says

    So look forward to your book reviews each month! I’m having the same type of reading year. Only one book, Razorblade Tears, has really blown me away. Just OK books all year. I feel validated with your reviews for Black Cake and Live Wire!

  102. Lori says

    I recently read The Cartographers and couldn’t put it down. It was well written, super creative story telling (reminded me of Castle of Water in this way a little), and it sucked me in. I read it in 48 hours & then couldn’t wait to discuss it with a friend who had recommended it!
    I love your book reviews! Going to add that Taylor Reid Jenkins book to my list! Thank you!!

  103. aynsley says

    I read the It Girl by Ruth Ware and The Fiance my Kate White, both bright spots this fall. The IT Girl was fantastic, the ending i did not see coming !

  104. Margaret says

    Books I have read and loved:

    The Last Bookshop in London by Madeline Martin
    The Family Upstairs by Lisa Jewell
    One night on the island by Josie Silver
    The Book of Lost names by Kristin Harmel
    Every summer after by Carley Fortune

    Happy Reading! Happy halloween!

  106. Carolyn H says

    Please read Finlay Donovan Is Killing It – I devoured it this week and already reserved the second book in the series. It was fresh and had mystery, romance, comedy. So good!!

  107. Jennifer says

    Yay for this post!! Okay, I also have had a lot of 4-star (as opposed to 5-star) books this year, but there are a few that have really stood out to me! Most recently, The Ballerinas by Rachel Kapelke-Dale. There surprisingly wasn’t a ton of hype about this book, but it is so well done. It somewhat reminded me of Thin Girls, so I think you will really love it too! It might be one of my favorites of the entire year. It got me out of my own book funk this past month. It’s very character-driven and thoughtful.

    Other ones that also stood out to this super picky reader recently- The Husbands by Chandler Baker, Evvie Drake Starts Over by Linda Holmes, and I still stand by Apples Never Fall by Liane Moriarty. I know you didn’t like her most recent few books (neither did I), but she’s back to her old self with this one! I still think you will love The Invisible Husband of Frick Island by Colleen Oakley too- especially when you’re needing some Nantucket-like vibes! You must try these after your holiday ones, I promise! All my other 5 star ones from this past year are ones you already read and also gave good reviews for!

    So funny about your Kelly Ripa review though. While I liked Katie Couric’s memoir, it made me think less of her after…whereas Kelly’s didn’t really do that for me! I thought Kelly Ripa was incredibly witty, brash, honest and straightforward. Her wording was clever and brilliant, while she was realistic and unapologetic about who she is. To each her own! 🙂

  108. Rayne Osborn says

    This has been a tough year-I still think of books like castle of water and wonder when the next one that really sticks with me is.
    Remarkably Bright Creatures was a pleasant surprise bc the premise sounded strange, but I enjoyed it. I also enjoyed Mad Honey this month bc her books always have a twist and teach me a different perspective. When in Rome was a really cute light read-think KA Tucker lines. I also think you need to give Charles Martin another try-Water from my Heart is amazing. For Christmas vibes, I am currently reading Snowed in for Christmas by Sarah Morgan.

  109. Lauren Ecklof says

    Loved Carrie Soto but I also just finished Black Cake and loved that one too. I haven’t read Kelly’s book but your description reminds me of how I felt after reading Katie Couric’s memoir. Happy Reading!

  110. Cheriese says

    I’m in the minority but I did not like Carrie Soto at all. Reading about every. single. shot. was very boring to me and I didn’t like Carrie at all. So disappointing because TJR is one of my very favorite authors.

  111. Lori says

    I was so happy to see that your latest book review had posted! I too appreciate your honest reviews and have gotten good suggestions from you and from commenters. One book i read recently and enjoyed was Thank You For Listening by Julia Whelan. It is a romance novel which is not necessarily my go to genre but I really liked this one a lot! Julia Whelan is actually a very popular audiobook narrator and naturally her characters are – you guessed it – audio book narrators! I’d say Rated R.

  112. Elizabeth says

    Shay, you need to read The Hotel by Pamela Kelley! I was actually expecting it to be on your list. Super light and cute. I read through a bunch of her books recently bc I was in a rut. Christmas at the Restaurant, like someone already mentioned, is also cute. Love how she connects all her characters together in each book.

  113. Stacey says

    I just read Part of Your World this week…I’m making my way through all the Abby Jimenez the library app has to offer. I have not been disappointed yet! They are light with a little more spice, but always witty and funny with great character development and banter. Love your reviews!

  114. Jane says

    I’m so glad I’m not the only one that A: have had a hard time finding really good books to read that were engaging and B: did NOT enjoy Kelly Ripa’s book. I actually rated Live Wire the lowest of any book I’ve read and I had really hoped to like it. That being said, I recently really enjoyed The Sound of Gravel (although heartbreaking) and gave one of my highest ratings to The Girl With The Louding Voice.

  115. Hayley says

    Last book review you did, I read many comments recommending Remarkably Bright Creatures that I decided to read it. It was fantastic! I really think you’re missing out on a top book of 2022 if you don’t read this one! I’ve seen many people bring it up again this time 🙂 the description sounds a bit odd with the octopus lol but it was so good!!

  116. Wendy Foote says

    This is a must read that you will love. Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt. Don’t let the summary fool you, such a special book.

  117. Wendy Foote says

    Shay, one more I just finished…Tomorrow, Tomorrow and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin. A story of, love and friendship set in the oddest setting, the world of gaming. It’s a departure but in a good way. It’s long and a tad quirky at times but because it’s so different it’s worth the time. It is a long book but it goes fast.

  118. Lindsey says

    I felt about the Katie Couric book as you did about Kelly Ripa. I liked her less afterwards. I felt like she included things in her book just to be hurtful or unkind. Booo

  119. Lindsey says

    Also, have you read The Plot? Super original!
    And Stanley Tucci’s book was DELIGHTFUL!!!! I laughed out loud many times!!

  120. Lucy @ Lucy Knows Things says

    I was on the fence about two books of those books. Based on your reviews, I’ve decided to skip on them. One of the books you reviewed, I’d kept off my TBR but have now added 😆.

  121. Becca says

    I read A Magical New York Christmas by Anita Hughes last Christmas and absolutely loved it! Highly recommend!!

  122. Nerine says

    Aww such a bummer about Live Wire! I haven’t read it yet but I am a huge Kelly Ripa fan (went to her show many times!) and I’m worried to read it because I think I will like her less too 🙁

    Also happy belated birthday, Shay! ❤️

  123. Lauren says

    Love your book reviews. Carrie Soto was one of my favorite books of the year! Amazing story that felt so real. Next up you should read “Dreamland” by Nicholas Sparks. Great read! Enjoy!

  124. Meghan says

    My thoughts on Live Wire by Kelly Ripa:

    Kelly’s book of short stories – not memoir (she says this upfront) – was funny and made me laugh out loud in many places. I’ve recommended it to many people. I don’t remember her complaining so much as making fun of herself and pointing out how awkward she can be.

    As far as Regis – Why isn’t she allowed to tell her side of the story? Someone else mentioned it above and I wondered the same thing about no one challenging Regis when there was video evidence to prove him wrong! I’m sure he was a nice man, but he wasn’t perfect. Kelly does a great job of sharing her experience with working with him while binge respectful at the same time.

    I listened to the book as well and really enjoyed Mark’s comments inserted along the way throughout the audiobook. I thought it was a nice twist.

    Thanks for your Christmas novel suggestions! I love to read those this time of year!

  125. Alyssa Shirley says

    I always read your book reviews every month because I love to read too! And i totally echo your disappointment in books this year too!
    I just finished what might be my fave book of the year though, The Extraordinary Life of Sam Hell by Robert Dugoni. It has a really good message of faith and of embracing who God created you to be, flaws and all(even though it’s a fiction, non religious book!)!
    Would totally recommend!

  126. Michaela says

    Yes! I agree wholeheartedly on books this year.. it has been ROUGH!! I read Part of Your World, the Jeanette McCurdy book, and Carrie Soto is back and agreed 100% with your reviews. I just finished This Tender Land by William Kent Krueger and found it a refreshingly incredibly well-written story compared to other books I’ve read this year. It’s not holiday themed, but you should definitely put it on your list!

  127. Dana says

    Have you read Every Summer After by Carly Fortune?? So good!! I know it’s not summer right now but it’s such a good book you shouldn’t wait til summer to read it!! 😊

  128. Julie J says

    Shay thank you sooo much for your book reviews. I am one of those people who looks for it every month. Thank you for doing your book reviews every month. ❤️

  129. Kelli says

    I listened to Leah Remini’s memoir this month and it was fascinating how she grew up in and left Scientology.

  130. Cynthia H says

    I recently finished The Office BFFs, and even though the TV show is sometimes too cringe for me I thought the book was really fun. I liked learning about how a TV show is made and I thought the message about friendship was great. I also read a book that’s been around for a while, but it’s still so relevant, Rick Steves’ Travel as a Political Act. I enjoyed reading about how traveling has broadened his perspectives, but also made him love home even more. As you love travel too, particularly to Europe, I thought you might enjoy it as well.

  133. Jennifer says

    Thank you for your honest reviews. I’ve also read more books that were just okay this year. Barely any 5 star books. I did love The Bodyguard and Nora Goes off Script. Also, A Cross Country Christmas is a super cute holiday book that I read last year and look forward to rereading this year!

  134. Leigh says

    As much as I love your book reviews, it’s kind of refreshing that you had to have a skip month. I’m always so amazed that you can read so much with everything going on in your life. My 4 kids are grown and gone now, and I still don’t read as much as you do! Keep killing it, momma.

  135. Brie says

    Skipping Christmas is a solid choice if you haven’t read it yet! It’s what Christmas with the Kranks was based on!

  137. Anna says

    For your holiday book list – Royal Holiday by Jasmine Guillory. Set in The UK w a little bit of royals & romance. Very sweet.

  138. Nicole Gomez says

    Ok, I usually agree with most of your recs and put many on my wishlist, but Carrie Soto is back?! I love TJR, but this book was not the move. There was too much tennis and I did not love her as a character.
    I did also love Part of your World and agree that I have come across way more books that I don’t love than I do.

  140. Sam Randall says

    Hey Shay 😊 love your blog! Always a bright spot in my day.
    Just catching up on your posts. I have a book recommendation that I really think you’ll like for a happy chick lit romance, it’s called In a New York Minute by Kate Spencer.
    Have a great week! Can’t wait to see your home all decked out for Christmas 🎄

  141. Kate says

    A non-holiday suggestion is The Midnight Library by Matt Haig. I’m currently reading it and finding it very thought provoking!

  142. Patti says

    I agree this is a rather dry year for books. I do have 3 of my favorites that you do not have listed as having read yet.

    Dreamland by Nicholas Spark was an easy, beautiful read with a twist.

    The People We Keep by Allison Larkin was so wonderful, sweet and moving that I still think about it from time to time and smile. I fell in love with main character, April.

    How Lucky by Will Leitch was a huge surprise for me. It was so different/quirky but full of heart. It was a little suspenseful too. The best part is the sweet touching relationships the main character, Lucky who is an adult disabled man, develops with those around him. Their sweet love for him was brought out for all to see! Ya gotta love that!

    All of these have nice tied up tight endings just the way you like them too. LOL.

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