Happy Halloween Eve, friends!
It’s my OCTOBER BOOK REVIEW!
I just love it when we chat books…but I REALLY love it when we chat books the day before Halloween!
Today, I have four books to review. They’re all four fiction, but they’re all a little different (well, sort of…).
Grab your #psl and settle in.
It’s Book Day, y’all!
Of course, we’re staring with…
Book #1:
…Buckeye by Patrick Ryan.
This was our OCTOBER BOOK CLUB read. If you have already read it/don’t care about “spoilers”/want to read our thoughts and opinions of it from the book club, click HERE.
Here is my “spoiler-free” review:
I really liked this book.
This is one of those epic saga stories that follows two families over several decades. It starts before WWII and follows each adult and then two of the children as they navigate the war, their family life, their Midwest town. This novel is full of ups and downs, tragedies, heartache, secrets, forgiveness and hope.
I thought this novel was beautifully written and each character so unique. This is a book about “real” people with “real” issues.
Two big thumbs up! If you want a “meaty” fictional story to dive into this next month, here you go.
If you want the complete opposite…
Book #2:
The Pumpkin Spice Cafe by Laurie Gilmore
You guys, I have laughed about this novel all month.
I mean, just take a minute to look at the cover. ADORABLE, right? And then let’s talk about the title? So cute!
After reading such a heavy piece of fiction earlier in the month, I wanted something nice and light to read next…and why not something seasonal too?
I dove in and was quickly charmed. This is like the Hallmark channel meets a chick lit novel. There wasn’t any foul language, it’s set in a really cute little town, it’s filled with countless fall references, cozy cafes, and checked all of my boxes. Needless to say, I was caught off guard by the sweet little story having rated R scenes. I mean, it was comical to me. As you know, I am no stranger to adult content, but I was very surprised this one had it because everything else was just so WHOLESOME.
It was like Hallmark and HBO had a baby.
Their baby was this book.
Needless to say, buyer beware. If you want to read a small town story about the new girl coming in and taking over her aunt’s cafe during the fall season and don’t mind some HBO randomly thrown in, this book is for you. If you are opposed to that content and/or want a more substantial work of fiction, I wouldn’t read this one.
Now, this next book though…
Book #3:
The Correspondent by Virginia Evans
Several of you recommended this one to me last month, and I am SO HAPPY that you did! This novel was crazy original.
This entire book is one woman’s “correspondences” with others. Some of these correspondences are actual letters she writes and/or receives and others are emails. Sounds strange, but goodness, it really was an excellent story. Through the main character’s “mail”, you are introduced to her family, her friends, her neighbor, even her doctor. You get backstory and raw truths and real dynamic interactions all through reading her correspondences. You even get some conflict and a little suspense.
I saw where Elin Hilderbrand called this book “elegant” which is such a good word to use. The writing is beautiful, each character really thoughtful…I have read a lot of books this year that I’ve already forgotten, but this one is memorable. It’s such an original idea to have an entire book written this way (and it was executed beautifully!) that it’s going to be extra memorable for me.
Please note though as you’re reading this one, she does discuss the death of a child in some of her letters. If that’s a sensitive topic for you, please know that it is one of the main themes.
The author also manages to cover adoption, mental illness, and many other topics in both a melancholy and lighthearted way.
These letters are woven together in such a way that you forget you are only reading letters.
Loved it. Two thumbs up.
And finally…
Book #4:
If It Makes You Happy by Julie Olivia
I clearly missed the memo that a new genre was created called Sexy Seasonal Hallmark-y Novels because I purchased this new release to wrap up my month (and once again, read something ‘light’ after something heavy) and bam…it was just like Book #2.
This is the story of a working girl from Seattle who moves to run her recently deceased mom’s bed and breakfast in Vermont in the fall…and meets the man next door who is a single dad that owns a bakery.
I mean…how HALLMARK does that sound?
It was adorable and light and easy to read and oh so seasonal and cute…with a bit of rated R thrown in too.
I mean…wholesome one minute, not so much the next.
It was very “fall” though 😉 .
Okay, that’s our OCTOBER BOOK REVIEW!
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.
To see the complete list of books I read in 2022 (all 60 of them), click here.
To see the complete list of books I read in 2023 (all 51 of them), click here.
To see the complete list of books I read in 2024 (all 58 of them), click here.
If you want to stay current on all of the books I’m reading in 2025, THIS PAGE HERE is where I keep the books, authors and reviews each month.
I also have a list of all of the HEALTH AND WELLNESS BOOKS we’ve discussed here on my blog as well.
Also, we would love, love to have you join us this month for our BOOK CLUB!
Right now, we are reading…
…The Widow by John Grisham. I have heard great things about this newest one from him. It’s supposed to be “old school” Grisham, so I’m excited to read it with you and discuss together on November 22nd.
That wraps up Book Day!
Please comment and share your thoughts, opinions and suggestions for new books we should all read. I will be reading a few HOLIDAY BOOKS this next month so that I can share them with you in time for your December reading.
Today, I’m sharing everything you need for HALLOWEEN in one place. Make sure you check out THAT POST too so that you’re ready for tomorrow!
I’ll see you on Halloween! xx
Sheaffer Sims says
I’m not gonna lie, this new genre sounds interesting. 😉
Marci says
I am also a fan of Laurie Gilmore’s Dream Harbor book series and am excited to read The Gingerbread Bakery. These are fun reads! I recently finished The Secret Life of Colette Marceau by Kristin Harmel. Loved it and highly recommend!
Jennifer says
Yes, I loved The Secret Life of Colette Marceau also!
Susanne says
Me too! In my top three favorite books this year!
Lisa D says
Yes! Its a top book for sure!
Elspeth Mizner says
I love book review day!!
Thanks for sharing!
http://www.elspethsdaybyday.com
Dawn McCormick says
Yay! Book day is the best day! A recent book I read and loved and haven’t stopped thinking about is Love and Death and Giants by Ron Rindo. It gave me a similar reading experience to The Women but is a completely different type of story. I think you would love it!
Audra says
I absolutely love your book reviews!! Thank you!
Kelly Sites says
The Correspondent was OUTSTANDING as an audio book. I loved every minute of it. I’m currently reading The Mad Wife (love so far) and Draw the Circle devo along with Ephesians in my Bible. Fall reading is the best.
Colleen says
The Correspondent audiobook may be the best book I listened to this year. It was so well done with a heartwarming and heartbreaking side of all the feelings.
Kristin says
I love book review day! Thanks!
Jessica says
Just be glad you didn’t listen to The Pumpkin Spice Cafe on audible.
It’s narrated by a lovely woman with a grandmotherly voice. It goes so well with the cozy, Hallmark feel until…. It doesn’t. At the spicy parts you’re like omg this grandma is reading me spicy words!! Hysterical but also awkward.
Mix and Match Mama says
STOP IT! Oh my gosh, now I’m really chuckling!
sandi says
I legitimately laughed at this comment. Book 3 and on were recommended by Libby but they did not have books 1 & 2 available, so it is very funny Shay read this because I thought the cover was a perfect fall read. Even if I read it I will probably think of this comment and the grandmother reading the spicy parts.
Alana says
Hahaha I needed this comment because I was considering purchasing it on Audible. I think I’ll stick with reading it myself 😅
Kacey says
Love a Hallmark vibe cozy read! Adding The Pumpkin Spice Cafe & If It Makes You Happy to my reading list!
Debbie Dehrer says
The Correspondent was excellent. It was thought provoking and original. It made me want to start writing letters to people. It is definitely a book that will be remembered.
I’m currently reading The Academy thanks to your recommendation. I was a little hesitant to read it because I have loved all the Nantucket books but Hildebrand, and I wasn’t sure if this was going to be too much like YA fiction, but I’m enjoying it so far.
Kerry says
I love book day. I haven’t read a Grisham in years so I think I will hop on the band wagon!
samantha says
I also recently read Pumpkin Spice Cafe and made the same Hallmark/HBO comparison! I’m now on the third one in the series as I enjoy the characters, the town and the pets. Interesting mix with this genre, but it’s fun to read!
Alyssa J says
If you want sweet without rated R, I highly recommend Theo of Golden. I read it in March, and it will likely be my favorite book of 2025.
Beth H says
The Correspondent was so good as was Theo of Golden!!!
Patty Anderson says
Such a good book! I loved Theo of Golden!
Paula Werner says
I would agree. Theo of Golden really sticks with you ! You would love this book.
Jessica says
yay! Book review day. I also read The Correspondent and really enjoyed it. I read The Poppy Fields, which was just ok for me. I really enjoyed The Bright Years and The Last Carolina Summer. I just started The Academy and like it.
Mary Anne Duke says
Once again I would like to recommend Theo of Golden by Allen Levi. It is about a man who has traveled to the town of Golden, which is South Georgia. He is quite accomplished and delivers kindness and goodness. This is not Santa Claus but a book to savor and think about how you might be touched by his journey.
Mix and Match Mama says
I mentioned this last month, but I purchased this book in August to read in September, but when I opened my Kindle, it said it would take me like 15 hours to read it. All of the other books I read say 6-8. I put it down and haven’t picked it back up. That’s a long time to read one book. It discouraged me.
Whitney Flint says
I think you should give it a try. It was a quick read (even if your kindle says it may take awhile). The Christian themes woven throughout make you really evaluate yourself and how people may remember you. It is an excellent book!
Mary Anne Duke says
It is just not a book you want to rush through….perhaps, don’t read it for a review but, read it for yourself💫
Valerie says
The Castle Knoll Files series by Kristen Perrin
Katie P says
I love book review day, and this one had me chuckling. I’d never guess there were steamy scenes included in those two books — both look wholesome and light! I appreciate your thoughtful reviews of all types of books.
Mix and Match Mama says
A lesson that one must never judge a book by it’s Hallmark-y cover.
Jenny Curtis says
I read the correspondent and was thinking the whole time, Shay would “hate” this book! Am I mistaken that you commented that you don’t like reading letters in books?
Mix and Match Mama says
I don’t! (Or speeches or eulogies!) I would not have read this one had it not been for all of the readers suggesting it. I really really enjoyed it though!
Mary Jane McNeill says
Girl, that #2 book! 😳 I picked it up at Costco and thought, “oh a cute fall read!“ well, it put the SPICE in pumpkin spice! 😂
Mix and Match Mama says
My friend Courtney said “It wasn’t called The Pumpkin Loaf Cafe, we should have known”, bahahaha!
Faith Kapp says
Your book reviews are one of my favorite posts. They make want to quit everything and just read all day. Adding MORE books to my long want to read list. I’ll never catch up 🤣
K.K. says
Book day!! Yes, please!!! Adding to cart… 😉
Tracy Robinson says
LOVE book review day!! I read and loved the Correspondent too!
Kelly W. says
Book Review Day is my favorite day of the month! I have already added The Correspondent to my wait list on Libby. If you haven’t read Theo of Golden yet, please add it to your list! It is phenomenal and one of the few books that has truly stuck with me long after I completed it.
sandi says
Back in the 90’s I would start my Saturday with College Game day and still love it today. I stumbled on Kirk Herbstreit’s book, Out of the Pocket: Football, Fatherhood and College Game Day and am working my way through that. His college career is in the past and he has just joined the College Game Day crew and it’s a who’s who for football in the 80’s and 90’s.
Other books this month are:
Bridge to Haven by Francine Rivers
Someday, Someday, Maybe by Lauren Graham (of Gilmore Girls)
Just for the Summer by Abby Jimenez
The Only Woman in the Room by Marie Benedict (based on the life of Hedy Lamarr)
Katrina Goodman says
Have you heard of Beach Reads and Bubbly on Instagram? She calls books like Pumpkin Spice Cafe B.R.A.D.s—beach reads after dark! I bought the Correspondent a few weeks ago, but I haven’t read it yet. I’m in the middle of The Academy.
Mix and Match Mama says
This is all new to me! I had never heard of that!
Pam Zercher says
I’m so happy you rate your books read. I don’t read as much as you but if I’m going to spend my time reading I want to read a book that’s hits all my expectations. A book with foul language or sexual content I wouldn’t be comfortable letting my adult children read (let alone *suggesting* they spend their free time reading) just isn’t worth my time reading. All that to say, THANK YOU for rating them for your blog friends 😃
Lisa D says
Pam, I’m with you on R rated books. Just no thanks.
I have a few books to recommend:
2. The Lion Women of Tehran by Marjan Kamali. This book has been mentioned for several months on this blog. It’s terrific and so interesting about historical Iran.
2. The Impossible Thing by Belinda Bauer, another book recommended by blog readers. This is on my Top Books list, it’s SO GOOD!
3. The Love Haters by Katherine Center. This is an easy read, a love story and no sex. I like this author’s books, and this one is terrific.
4. The Correspondent by Virginia Evans. It’s a thoughtful book, I loved it.
5. The Storied Life of A J Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin. Very, very good!
Jeanette says
Love Book Day! Back in the day, I used to devour John Grisham’s books. I can’t remember the last time I read one of his books, now you have me wanting to read the new one!
Karah Stracener says
Our book club is reading The Correspondent for November. I have heard nothing but good things about it. I cannot wait to read it. I just downloaded Pumpkin Spice Cafe on my Kindle. Its up next on my TBR. I always love your book reviews and it sounds like October was a great reading month.
Lorraine says
I also loved the Correspondent. I just loved her and her neighbor. I loved how original it was and just the enjoyment of life. It made me chuckle on several occasions.
I read that pumpkins cafe book and was also so so surprised!!!! I don’t love adult content but I appreciated that it was super easy to skip and the rest was so clean! I do like Sarah Adams when I want romance. She is very closed door about anything inappropriate, so you kind of know it’s happening without getting details.
I really appreciate that you rate the books!! I wish there was a way to check content before reading.
Lana says
Give me all the spicy hallmark type books! 😉 I’m a lover for romance of all kinds.
Cris says
I really appreciate the content warnings and the rating heads up, Shay! Thanks!
Jennifer says
Love book review day! I read The Honey Crisp Orchard Inn. It too was Hallmarky. Another book I Loved this month was How to Kiss Your Best Friend. That is a couple years old and I’m not sure how I missed it. Both books were light but fun.
Melinda Bridge says
My older sister gave me the first four books in the Dream Harbor series. As I was reading the Pumpkin Spice series, I thought this is kinda of a cheesy book and then all of a sudden the spicy 🌶️ is there. I even flipped back a few pages to see if I missed something…nope it is spicy all of a sudden! Have you read the rest of the series?
Mix and Match Mama says
I haven’t. Are they other novels cute and charming too?!
Kat says
I just finished the 2nd one… The Cinnamon Bun Bookstore. It was cute and Hallmarky but even more spice!! Pumpkin had a scene or two while this one was more frequent. Still a cute story and I liked how the characters carried through both book. Love the Hallmark/HBO comparison! Had me laughing!
Elizabeth S says
I love book review day but now I have do n my any more books to read😳. I keep adding to my list. Thanks for all of the amazing book suggestions!