3.5 stars - We Used to Live Here by Marcus Kliewer is a chilling debut that masterfully blends horror and psychological thriller elements. The story c3.5 stars - We Used to Live Here by Marcus Kliewer is a chilling debut that masterfully blends horror and psychological thriller elements. The story centers on Charlie and Eve, a young, queer couple who purchase an old house in a seemingly idyllic neighborhood. Their lives spiral into a nightmare when the house’s previous residents arrive unexpectedly, requesting a tour. Eve’s decision to let them in sets off a series of eerie and inexplicable events.
Kliewer excels at creating an atmosphere of creeping dread. From the moment the family steps into the house, reality and imagination blur, and every creak and shadow is charged with malevolence. Eve is a relatable and sympathetic protagonist, and her descent into paranoia and fear is portrayed with keen realism.
However, the novel leaves several questions unanswered, which might frustrate some readers. While the ambiguity adds to the eerie, dreamlike quality of the story, certain plot threads feel unresolved, leaving the reader wanting more clarity on the motivations and supernatural elements.
Despite these loose ends, We Used to Live Here delivers a chilling experience that lingers long after the final page. Marcus Kliewer’s talent for creating spine-tingling horror makes this a strong debut, perfect for fans of psychological horror and stories that blur the boundaries of reality.
Thank you to NetGalley and Atria/Emily Bestler Books for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review....more
it feels really insane to get online and rate a children's classic from 1908... it's hard work but someone's gotta do it. it feels really insane to get online and rate a children's classic from 1908... it's hard work but someone's gotta do it. ...more
The Art of Catching Feelings by Alicia Thompson is an engaging sports romance that had me hooked with its premise but left me frustrated due to the heThe Art of Catching Feelings by Alicia Thompson is an engaging sports romance that had me hooked with its premise but left me frustrated due to the heavy reliance on deception.
Daphne Brink, fresh off her divorce, ends up heckling Chris Kepler, a Carolina Battery player, during a baseball game. Her taunts cause Chris to break down in tears, leading her to reach out and apologize via social media—without revealing she was the heckler.
Chris, dealing with his own personal issues, connects with Daphne online, and their relationship blossoms. However, Daphne's secret looms large over their budding romance, and her continuous avoidance of the truth became a major sticking point for me.
Chris is a fantastic character—sweet, caring, and realistically portrayed with his struggles. I adored him, but Daphne's persistent dishonesty overshadowed much of their romance. There were so many moments where the truth could have come out, and each missed opportunity made me more frustrated.
The writing is sharp, and the chemistry between the characters is undeniable. The epilogue is particularly swoon-worthy and wraps up the story nicely. However, the deception aspect tainted my enjoyment of the book.
Overall, The Art of Catching Feelings has its charms with great characters and engaging writing, but the central theme of lying was a significant downside for me. If you can look past the deception, there's a lot to enjoy here.
Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for the ARC in exchange for an honest review....more
Catherine Newman’s Sandwich is a heartfelt and engaging novel that beautifully captures the essence of family life, middle age, and the changes that cCatherine Newman’s Sandwich is a heartfelt and engaging novel that beautifully captures the essence of family life, middle age, and the changes that come with time. Set during a summer vacation in Cape Cod, the story delves into the complexities of being caught between aging parents and growing children, with plenty of humor and heart.
The protagonist, Rocky, always looks forward to the family’s annual beach retreat. This year, though, she’s dealing with menopause, her half-grown kids, and her aging parents. As she navigates these changes, memories from past summers resurface, filled with both joy and sadness. Rocky must face her family’s history and the future, learning to let go and embrace the present.
Newman’s writing shines in this charming slice-of-life novel. The characters are wonderfully flawed and deeply human, each dealing with their own issues while holding on to the love that binds them. Rocky’s journey, especially her hormonal ups and downs, is depicted with humor and empathy, making her a relatable and endearing character.
The Cape Cod setting adds a nostalgic element to the story. Newman’s descriptions of the beach, the cottage, and the family’s traditions create a vivid backdrop. The theme of food, particularly Rocky’s delicious sandwiches, symbolizes the nurturing and care she provides for her family, despite her own struggles.
Sandwich is more than just a family vacation story; it’s a deep exploration of love, loss, and the passage of time. The book balances humor and heartache, capturing the messy, beautiful reality of family life. It’s a novel that will resonate deeply with readers, especially those navigating similar life stages.
For those who enjoy character-driven stories about family dynamics, Sandwich is a must-read. It’s a gorgeous little book that offers wisdom, warmth, and a generous dose of reality. While it’s already a touching read, it’s likely to resonate even more as readers enter motherhood or middle age, making it a timeless addition to any bookshelf.
Thank you to Harper and NetGalley for providing an ARC of this lovely novel. Sandwich is set to be published on June 18, 2024, and is sure to be a favorite among fans of contemporary and literary fiction....more
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