I had never hated myself more. Or felt more truly myself.
"Where Are You, Echo Blue?" by Hayley Krischer is a compelling page-turner that explores the I had never hated myself more. Or felt more truly myself.
"Where Are You, Echo Blue?" by Hayley Krischer is a compelling page-turner that explores the dark side of celebrity culture, child stardom, and the obsessive nature of fandom. This smart and juicy read weaves together the lives and perspectives of both celebrity and fan, offering a fresh take on the price of ambition.
The story follows Goldie, an ambitious young journalist whose big break comes when Echo Blue, a famous child star from the nineties, mysteriously disappears just before a highly publicized television event on New Year's Eve, 1999. Goldie, a lifelong fan of Echo, is determined to uncover the truth behind her idol's disappearance. Her investigation takes her deep into Echo's troubled life, filled with parental conflicts, rehab stints, and toxic relationships. As Goldie gets closer to the truth, she begins to question her own role in Echo's downfall.
Krischer alternates between Goldie's frantic search and Echo's tumultuous past, creating a thought-provoking dual narrative. The novel shines in its exploration of the darker aspects of fame and the pressures faced by those who grow up in the spotlight. Echo's story is reminiscent of real-life child stars like Drew Barrymore and Lindsay Lohan, adding a layer of authenticity to her struggles. Goldie's character, though sometimes frustrating in her relentless ambition, is ultimately relatable and human, reflecting the complicated relationship between fans and their idols. Krischer doesn't shy away from highlighting the exploitation and objectification that often accompany fame, making the reader reflect on their own complicity in this culture.
While the ending may feel a bit too conclusive for some, it provides a satisfying resolution to both Echo's and Goldie's arcs. The novel's strength lies in its ability to keep the reader hooked until the very end, blending suspense with emotional depth.
In summary, "Where Are You, Echo Blue?" is a compelling read that offers a nuanced look at the complexities of fame and the cost of ambition. With its sharp prose and well-drawn characters, Hayley Krischer has crafted a novel that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. Highly recommended for those interested in stories about the impact of celebrity culture and the relentless pursuit of truth.
Thank you to NetGalley and Dutton for providing an early copy of this book. ...more
"I was never a child." "That's the thing, though. You were."
"Madwoman" by Chelsea Bieker - her sophomore novel and follow-up to Godshot - is an emotion"I was never a child." "That's the thing, though. You were."
"Madwoman" by Chelsea Bieker - her sophomore novel and follow-up to Godshot - is an emotionally charged and gripping literary thriller that delves into the complexities of motherhood, trauma, and survival. With raw intensity and masterful storytelling, this book is a poignant exploration of motherhood and the indomitable spirit of women.
The story follows Clove, who appears to have the perfect life, with a loving husband and two sweet children. However, Clove has secrets, and when she receives a letter from a women's prison in California, her past threatens to collide with her present. As Clove grapples with the memories from her traumatic childhood, she's forced to face the reality of her mother's incarceration, and the violence that has shaped her life.
The writing here is brutal and haunting, alternating between Clove's present day in Portland and her childhood in Hawaii, and allowing readers to piece together the puzzle of Clove's past. The tension and sense of dread builds steadily, ultimately culminating in what is truly a surprising and heart-wrenching climax.
This is a profound commentary on the cycle of violence and the lengths women can - and often, must - go to to escape it. Bieker explores generational trauma, societal expectations of motherhood, and how far women will go to protect themselves and those they love.
In summary, "Madwoman" is a tour de force that cements Chelsea Bieker’s place as a major talent in contemporary fiction. It is a story of pain and redemption, of love and loss, and of the fierce determination of a woman to reclaim her life. This book is an unforgettable read that will resonate with readers long after they turn the final page.
Thank you to Little, Brown and Company for providing an early copy of this remarkable novel....more
"The Next Best Fling" by Gabriella Gamez is a charming and spicy debut romance that delivers a delightful mix of humor, heart, and heat. Marcela Ortiz"The Next Best Fling" by Gabriella Gamez is a charming and spicy debut romance that delivers a delightful mix of humor, heart, and heat. Marcela Ortiz, a librarian with a secret crush on her best friend, finds herself entangled in a no-strings-attached relationship with Theo Young, an ex-NFL player and the older brother of the man she’s in love with. What starts as a convenient cover-up for their unrequited feelings quickly turns into a passionate and complicated romance.
Marcela has been pining for her best friend for years, but when he gets engaged, she knows it’s time to move on. Enter Theo, who drunkenly plans to confess his love for his brother’s fiancée at their engagement party. Marcela steps in to stop him, and one thing leads to another, leading everyone to believe they’ve hooked up. Needing a distraction from their respective heartaches, they decide to keep up the charade.
Theo is a cinnamon roll hero with a heart of gold. Despite his initial attraction to his brother's fiancée, his chemistry with Marcela is undeniable. Their relationship, filled with late-night bar escapades and steamy moments in library aisles, evolves from a simple rebound to something much deeper. Marcela’s journey from unrequited love to self-discovery and acceptance is both relatable and inspiring.
The book is a fun and breezy read, perfect for those who love a mix of humor and drama in their romances. Gamez does a great job of balancing the light-hearted moments with more serious themes, such as body image issues and family dynamics. Marcela’s insecurities about her plus-size figure are handled with sensitivity and realism, and Theo’s unwavering support and admiration for her are heartwarming.
However, the book isn’t without its flaws. The pacing can be uneven at times, with a slow start that picks up significantly in the second half. Some of the plot twists are predictable, and the resolution of the central conflict feels a bit rushed. Despite these minor issues, the story’s charm and the characters’ chemistry keep you hooked until the end.
Overall, "The Next Best Fling" is a sweet and engaging romance that will leave you smiling. Gabriella Gamez’s debut is a promising start, and I’m excited to see what she writes next. If you’re looking for a light, feel-good romance with a touch of spice, this book is definitely worth a read.
Thank you to Forever Publishing for the ARC!...more
"All This & More" is an inventive and wholly original novel about a woman who wins the chance to rewrite every mistake she’s ever made. Marsh, a 45-ye"All This & More" is an inventive and wholly original novel about a woman who wins the chance to rewrite every mistake she’s ever made. Marsh, a 45-year-old whose life is in shambles, gets selected to star in a reality show that uses quantum technology to allow contestants to revise their pasts and change their present lives.
Marsh's journey is filled with twists as she becomes a famous lawyer, rekindles an old romance, and travels the world. However, as she navigates these new paths, she begins to notice unsettling inconsistencies and wonders if the show's promises are too good to be true.
The book is structured like a "Choose Your Own Adventure," which adds a super fun layer to the reading experience. As Marsh explores different realities, the story explores themes of choice, consequence, and the pursuit of happiness.
While the premise is really cool, the execution felt a bit lengthy at times. The story could have been tighter, and some parts seemed to drag. However, the concept is so intriguing that it keeps you hooked. The unique format allows readers to feel more involved in the narrative, making it a fun and thought-provoking read.
Overall, "All This & More" is a creative and captivating novel that stands out for its originality. It might not have been the exact book I was expecting, but it’s still a compelling read that offers plenty to think about.
Thanks to NetGalley and William Morrow for the ARC....more
"The God of the Woods" by Liz Moore is a richly woven tale set in the Adirondack Mountains in 1975, starting with the disappearance of 13-year-old Bar"The God of the Woods" by Liz Moore is a richly woven tale set in the Adirondack Mountains in 1975, starting with the disappearance of 13-year-old Barbara Van Laar from her family's summer camp. This isn't the first tragedy the Van Laar family has faced—Barbara’s older brother disappeared fourteen years ago and was never found.
Moore masterfully blends the secrets of the Van Laar family with the dynamics of the local community, creating a multi-threaded narrative that is both compelling and immersive. The characters, especially the women, are well-developed and their stories explore deep themes like motherhood, gender roles, and class. The setting is lush and vibrant, vividly bringing to life the woods surrounding Camp Emerson.
The alternating timelines between the 1950s and 1970s add depth to the story, slowly peeling back the layers of mystery and family drama. Moore's writing is beautiful and evocative, truly transporting the reader to the era and place. However, I found myself somewhat a victim of the hype. I was expecting something more literary and less focused on the mystery element.
That said, "The God of the Woods" is still a very good book. The plot is well-constructed and the short, sharp chapters increase the tension as the story unfolds. The novel’s strength lies in its character development and the way it handles complex themes with nuance and empathy. My heart shattered as the events culminated in a tragically sad and painful revelation.
While it didn’t completely match my expectations, "The God of the Woods" is an emotionally powerful read with a lot to offer. It's definitely worth checking out, especially if you appreciate richly detailed stories with well-drawn characters.
Thank you to NetGalley and Riverhead Books for the ARC in exchange for an honest review....more
"The Haters" by Robyn Harding is a popcorn thriller that, while serviceable, tends to lean into the corny side. The plot centers around Camryn Lane, a"The Haters" by Robyn Harding is a popcorn thriller that, while serviceable, tends to lean into the corny side. The plot centers around Camryn Lane, a debut author who finds herself targeted by an unknown assailant through disturbing messages and a barrage of one-star reviews. This online harassment quickly escalates, impacting her personal life and leading Camryn on a desperate quest to uncover the identity of her tormentor.
The book’s premise is intriguing, tapping into the fears many authors and public figures have about the power and reach of online criticism. Camryn's journey, from initial excitement over her novel's release to the dread and paranoia that follow, is a compelling setup. However, several aspects of the story fell flat for me. While Camryn's anguish and desperation are palpable, other characters lack depth and nuance. The relationships feel somewhat one-dimensional, and it's difficult to fully invest in their dynamics.
The narrative pacing is uneven. There are moments of intense suspense, but they are interspersed with slower, less engaging sections. This inconsistency detracts from the overall tension and thrill. The plot twists, while numerous, are somewhat predictable. The reveal of the antagonist and their motives felt underwhelming and didn't pack the punch I was hoping for. Some plot elements and dialogues veered into corny territory, reducing the impact of key scenes and making the story feel less serious and credible.
Despite these criticisms, "The Haters" is not without its merits. Harding's exploration of the dark side of social media and online harassment is timely and relevant. The book within a book, "Burnt Orchid," adds an interesting layer to the narrative, even if it doesn’t fully deliver on its potential.
In summary, "The Haters" is a decent thriller that offers a few moments of genuine suspense but ultimately falls short due to its predictability and lack of character depth. It’s a quick read for those who enjoy thrillers, but don’t expect it to leave a lasting impression. Thanks to Grand Central Publishing for the ARC via NetGalley! ...more
"Here's what everyone thinks about me. And it's exactly what I've always suspected about myself."
The Villain Edit by Laurie Devore is a sharp and deli"Here's what everyone thinks about me. And it's exactly what I've always suspected about myself."
The Villain Edit by Laurie Devore is a sharp and delightfully dramatic novel, with a reality television setting and themes of self-discovery and reflection. If you love The Bachelor franchise or have ever found yourself rooting for a villain, this one is for you.
Jacqueline Matthis is a struggling romance author who makes an impulse decision to join reality dating show "the 1" in an effort to boost her career. As she competes for the attention of the show's eligible bachelor, Marcus, she's shocked to discover that her one-night-stand Henry is a producer on the show. To complicate matters further, she discovers she's being edited as the show's villain, throwing her plans for a loop.
I really enjoyed this book. The writing is engaging and fast-paced, and Jac is a complex character that I really found myself relating to and rooting for. There's a lot to ponder here, with reflections on self-doubt and self-loathing. Henry and Marcus are interesting characters as well. I loved the balance of humor and heart found here. This is a smart read for anyone who likes a romance where the protagonist is a little more complicated! Four very enthusiastic stars from this reader.
Thanks to Avon for the ARC! This book is out July 2nd....more
Love Letters to a Serial Killer is a dark, funny, and compelling debut thriller by Tasha Coryell that is simply unputdownable. This was truly a wild rLove Letters to a Serial Killer is a dark, funny, and compelling debut thriller by Tasha Coryell that is simply unputdownable. This was truly a wild ride from start to finish.
Our protagonist is Hannah, a late-twenties woman who finds community in an online true-crime forum after being ghosted by her not-boyfriend and feeling left behind by her friends. She begins writing letters to William, an accused serial killer awaiting trial, and as he responds and their correspondence gains steam, becomes obsessed with his case. Hannah's life spirals as she wonders - is her new boyfriend a murderer? Is that even a dealbreaker for her?
This book is laugh out loud funny and not quite as straightforward as it might seem upon first glance. Hannah is a very frustrating character, but while I found myself cringing at her sardonic inner dialogue, it was partially because some of her most self-deprecating thoughts hit a little too close to home. Is there any woman in her twenties who hasn't wondered why she hasn't gotten her happily ever after? Just because our coping mechanisms aren't quite as bad as Hannah's doesn't mean we don't understand how she got there. Coryell's writing is sharp and hilarious, and kept me turning the pages. Obsession is one of my favorite themes in literature and this story handles it so well.
This story is unique, engrossing, and wholly original. The thriller market has honestly become so oversaturated, and I love having a fresh voice take on a totally fresh take. I'm not claiming that this is a perfect book, but it's a very, very fun one. A perfect pool read for those of us who prefer slightly darker books. This is totally bonkers - but in the most fun way imaginable.
Thanks for the advance review copy, Berkley! This book is out 6/25....more
None yet knew of the evolving tragedy that would be their lives.
All the Colors of the Dark is a luminous, sweeping, multi-generational literary mysterNone yet knew of the evolving tragedy that would be their lives.
All the Colors of the Dark is a luminous, sweeping, multi-generational literary mystery. At a whopping 600 pages, I was hooked from the first line to the last, and this is a new all-time favorite.
Our story begins in 1975 in the small town of Monta Clare, Missouri, where girls are disappearing. When a young boy named Patch saves a girl from her would-be abductor, he sets off a chain of events that will impact the lives of everyone around him.
This book is very, very hard to review without giving away parts of the plot that I just really don't want to give away. What I will say is that the characters in this story, especially Patch and Saint, will stick with me for the rest of my life. They just feel like real people to me. Whitaker's prose is so vivid and evocative that I felt like I could see Monta Clare, and the thousands of miles from there that our characters travel. Whitaker also clearly believes that we are smart enough to put the pieces together without needing everything spelled out for us. I was fully immersed in their world.
This book isn't just a thriller - it's a deeply emotional journey that explores the endurance of the human spirit. The relationships described in this story cracked my heart wide open and brought tears to my eyes on multiple occasions. I would compare the feeling I had here to the one I had when I read Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow - this is not a traditional love story, but it is a love story nonetheless.
All The Colors of the Dark is a literary masterpiece that transcends genres. Chris Whitaker has created a story that is both thrilling and deeply moving, with characters that will stay with you long after the final page. This is a novel that demands to be read, shared, and remembered. I cannot recommend it highly enough.
Thanks so much to Crown Publishing for the review copy in exchange for my honest review.
*** pre-review
This is just a masterpiece. I’ll never stop thinking about Patch, Saint, Charlotte, Sammy, and the world created in these 600 pages. This is my contender for book of the year right now. I’m just… stunned.
Full review to come, thank you to the publisher for the ARC...more
"Things Don't Break on Their Own" by Sarah Easter Collins is an emotionally gripping and well-crafted mystery that delves deep into family dynamics an"Things Don't Break on Their Own" by Sarah Easter Collins is an emotionally gripping and well-crafted mystery that delves deep into family dynamics and unresolved grief. The story centers on Willa, whose sister Laika disappeared 25 years ago, an event that has haunted Willa ever since. As Willa navigates her complex relationships and personal struggles, she remains convinced that her sister is still alive, driven by an unbreakable sisterly bond.
Collins expertly weaves together past and present, using multiple perspectives to slowly reveal the layers of this haunting tale. The dinner party that brings together Willa, her former lover Robyn, and other significant characters serves as a catalyst for uncovering long-buried secrets. The character development is particularly strong, with each person vividly portrayed, making their interactions compelling and believable.
The narrative explores themes of loss, identity, and the impact of childhood trauma, all while maintaining a suspenseful pace that keeps readers engaged. The shifting timelines and fragmented memories create a tapestry of intrigue that culminates in a satisfying resolution, answering the lingering questions about Laika’s fate.
Overall, "Things Don't Break on Their Own" is a powerful debut that balances emotional depth with a captivating mystery. Sarah Easter Collins' lyrical prose and keen insight into human relationships make this novel a standout in the genre. Highly recommended for those who appreciate character-driven stories with a touch of psychological suspense.
Thank you to NetGalley and Crown Publishing for the ARC....more
Claire Lombardo's Same As It Ever Was is a beautifully written exploration of mid-life, family, and the past. Ju4.5 - thanks to Doubleday for the ARC!
Claire Lombardo's Same As It Ever Was is a beautifully written exploration of mid-life, family, and the past. Julia Ames, at fifty-seven, finally feels stable, but her peace is disrupted by surprising news from her son, her teenage daughter pulling away, and a blast from her past.
Lombardo's characters are incredibly real and relatable. Julia's journey through maternal struggles, friendship, and old patterns is both touching and authentic. The detailed descriptions enhance the story, though the book's length can make it feel slow at times. However, the depth and realism of the characters make it worthwhile.
Despite its size, the novel's deep dive into relationships and personal growth keeps you hooked. Lombardo's talent for capturing life's messiness and beauty shines through, making this a must-read for literary fiction fans. Julia's struggles and triumphs resonate deeply, capturing the reader's heart and mind. The narrative's exploration of the complex dynamics of family and the emotional rollercoaster of middle age is both thought-provoking and heartwarming.
Lombardo skillfully portrays the intricacies of human connections, making the reader reflect on their own relationships and life choices. Same As It Ever Was is a compelling, richly detailed story that will stay with you long after you turn the last page....more
![I Shouldn’t Be Telling You This [But I'm Going to Anyway]](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1696962462l/198385436._SY75_.jpg)
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