randombookswithmj's reviews
518 reviews

The Rom-Commers by Katherine Center

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4.5

 
The Rom-Commers is a delightful and engaging read that stays true to the author's signature writing style. The book showcases the attention to detail and research that goes into crafting a romantic comedy, something I surprisingly wasn't aware of.  It offers readers a genuine and heartwarming experience. This book delivers on its promise of romance focusing on the anticipation and build-up of love💘. The positive and uplifting storyline, coupled with the lead-up to the much-anticipated big kiss, showcases Katherine Center's talent for capturing the essence of romance.  Yes, you know how it will end, but who cares, it's a feel good story. 
 
Would I recommend this book? Yes! If you are looking for a nice feel good book, this is the one this summer.💞 Plus, it's not necessary but characters from The Bodyguard show up in this novel and it is so much more fun when you've read about them before they show up (see my review from February 8th). 
 
Thank you to @stmartinspress and @netgalley for the opportunity to read and review an advanced copy of Katherine Center's book. 
Swift River by Essie Chambers

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2.75

 
Coming of age novel about a black girl living in a town where she is the only black person and a child that has a white mother and a black father. It brings to light the issues faced by a single black family in a white town. As well as issues surrounding poverty, racism, eating disorders, dysfunctional families and most importantly how history affect us, both our own history and that of a community; important subjects for all of us to understand better. 

Honestly though, I had a hard time following this story line and feel like the book needed more editing. The ideas were all there, just the finalizing of how the story came together needs some work. 

Would I recommend this book, not likely and I am surprised it is the Read with Jenna pick. 

Thank you to @simonschusterca for the opportunity to read and review this novel. 

The Covenant of Water by Abraham Verghese

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4.75

 
🌊 Such an eloquently written novel, it is a masterpiece that beautifully interweaves multiple story lines into a fascinating narrative. Verghese's mastery of the written word shines through, creating a story that is meant to be savoured and enjoyed to the last word. The depth of the characters and the richness of the storytelling make this book a truly immersive experience. 

🚣‍♀️Complaints? Why did it take Verghese so long to publish a novel after Cutting for Stone? Will I need to wait another 15 years for his next book? Some of you will find it long and too slow, but for me I was just sad the story ended. 

🎇 Would I recommend it? Yes! Emphatically! 📚 

The Seaside Sisters: A Novel by Pamela Kelley

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3.75

 
The Seaside Sisters is, no questions asked, a beach/vacation read that offers a light and easy reading experience. The novel delivers on its promise of romance and chick lit, making it a delightful choice for fans of those genres. It's a great book to read to recover from a heavier book, or before beginning a more profound read. 

For me however, there wasn’t character development, which made it challenging to become fully immersed in the narrative. 

Would I recommend it? If you are looking for a pleasant read and nothing to deep, it is perfect. 

Thank you to @stmartinspress and @netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this novel 

The Return of Ellie Black by Emiko Jean

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4.25

 A much-needed book for me at the right time! A refreshing change in genre and story and The Return of Ellie Black is going to benefit from this change. 
 
A quick read thriller with plenty of twists that keep you guessing until the very end! I thought I had it all figured out, but the surprises kept coming. 
 
The author raises crucial points on the lack of resources for diverse ethnicities and income levels when something happens in that community. The portrayal of captor-victim dynamics is well written, showcasing the power imbalance compelling victims to act out of character. 
 
Only issue with the book is the that the ending could have been stronger. As well, before picking this up keep in mind there may be trigger warnings for some readers. 
 
Thank you to @simonschusterca for the opportunity to read and review this book. Thank you also to @emikojeanbooks for writing a great thriller. Congratulation on your debut novel! 
The Ministry of Time by Kaliane Bradley

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4.25

 
A unique book with romance, time travel, historical fiction, and thriller all in one. The Ministry of Time offers a completely unique storyline and with lots of to add to the narrative. The way Bradley explored bring the past into the present was so thought-provoking to read and consider, considering how individuals from different time periods perceive the world around them. 

The author addressed so many interesting themes but one that stood out to me was sex and sexuality in various contexts from different times, from dating to sexual orientation. It's refreshing to see these themes explored in such a multifaceted way. 

Unfortunately, "The Ministry of Time" didn't quite capture my attention. It's not the book's fault; I think it just wasn't the right time for me to read this story. After consuming a lot of dystopian content recently, I feel like I need a break to fully appreciate a book like this. Under different circumstances, I believe I would have really enjoyed this book and fallen in love with Graham Gore. 

Would I recommend this book? Yes. Take a chance on it. It is just a different sort of story. 

Thank you to Simon and Schuster Canada and to Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this novel.