jenspagesandponderings's reviews
276 reviews

 "The Other Side of Disappearing" blends family drama with a touch of mystery, centered around a podcast-inspired quest. Kate Clayborn explores the complexities of sisterhood and the ripple effects of long-held secrets through Jess and Tegan's journey. While the premise is intriguing, the podcast-centric plot may feel overused to some readers. The romance subplot with Adam adds depth, but struggles to fully engage. Clayborn's strength in character development shines, but the far-fetched nature of the search for their mother might strain credibility. The novel touches on themes of protection, truth, and personal growth, but doesn't quite reach the emotional heights of Clayborn's previous works. A decent read for fans of contemporary women's fiction with a dash of mystery. 

 "Capture or Kill" reignites the Mitch Rapp series with a gripping blend of historical context and high-stakes espionage. Don Bentley masterfully weaves a tale that intertwines the hunt for Osama bin Laden with a potential Middle East crisis, showcasing Rapp's unparalleled skills in averting global catastrophe. The novel delves deeper into key characters' backgrounds, particularly Rapp, Irene Kennedy, and Scott Coleman, enriching the series' lore. Bentley's storytelling honors Flynn's legacy while injecting fresh energy into the franchise, delivering a taut, action-packed thriller that longtime fans and newcomers alike will appreciate. A worthy addition that proves the Rapp saga is in capable hands. 

Well, butter my biscuit if "A Happier Life" by Kristy Woodson Harvey isn't a delightful surprise! This is only my second rodeo with Harvey's writing, but let me tell you, I'm already eyeing her backlist like it's the last piece of pecan pie at a church potluck.

Harvey has a knack for serving up a perfect blend of warm fuzzies and "Oh crap!" moments. You know those books that make you feel like you're wrapped in a cozy blanket for one minute, and then the next, you're on the edge of your seat? That's this book in a nutshell.

Our main gal, Keaton Smith, needs a fresh start (and honestly, who among us hasn't been there?). When she learns about a childhood home she never knew existed in Beaufort, North Carolina, she heads south faster than you can say "y'all." But this house comes with more baggage than an overpacked suitcase - we're talking family secrets that would make even the most dramatic soap opera blush.

Then we've got Rebecca "Becks" Saint James, who, back in 1976, was the hostess with the mostest whose summer suppers were the talk of the town. But behind that Southern charm and hospitality, Becks was facing a dilemma that not even her famous recipes could fix.

What I loved most about this book is how seamlessly Harvey weaves the family history into the story. It's like she's serving up a multi-course meal of past and present, and honey, it's all delicious. The way the house on Sunset Lane stands as a silent witness to generations of women's hopes, dreams, and secrets? Chef's kiss

Fair warning: this book might make you want to pack up and move to a charming Southern town. Don't be surprised if you find yourself browsing real estate listings in North Carolina by the time you're done!

So, grab yourself a glass of sweet tea (or something stronger, I won't judge), settle in, and prepare to be charmed by "A Happier Life." It's a tale that'll make you laugh, maybe cry a little, and definitely crave some Southern comfort food.

 Well, well, well, look who's back – it's Travis Devine, and he's not messing around this time!

Baldacci's third installment in the 6:20 Man series hits the ground running and doesn't let up. You know those books that have you stealing moments throughout the day just to read one more page? This is one of those. I haven't been this engrossed in a thriller for ages, and let me tell you, it was time well spent.

Now, a word to the wise – while you can enjoy this as a standalone, do yourself a favor and start from the beginning if you can. The character development, especially for Travis, is the chef's kiss. It's like getting to know a complex friend over time – each book adds another layer.

This time around, Travis is off to Seattle on what seems like a straightforward FBI gig. But come on, when has anything ever been straightforward for our guy? What starts as a simple escort mission for a young orphan becomes a web of conspiracy. And let's not forget about that mysterious "girl on the train" – it looks like that particular plot thread is about to come to a head!

Baldacci's writing is as sharp as ever, keeping you guessing and flipping pages late into the night (sorry, not sorry, sleep schedule). The pacing is spot-on, the twists are clever, and the characters continue to evolve in ways that keep you invested.

All in all, this is a solid 4.5 stars from me. You can't go wrong here if you're a fan of thrillers that keep you on your toes and characters that feel like old friends (albeit very dangerous ones). I can't wait to see what Travis Devine gets up to next!

Big thanks to Netgalley and Grand Central Publishing for the early copy. It's always a treat to get a sneak peek! 

 Ever wonder what really goes on in that mysterious room labeled "Faculty Only"? Jennifer Mathieu's "The Faculty Lounge" pulls back the curtain, and it's a hoot. 

As a former teacher (and a Texas one at that), I found myself nodding along, cringing, and occasionally snort-laughing my way through this book. Mathieu captures the beautiful mess of school life with a cast of characters that feel lifted straight from the teacher's lounge of any high school in America. 

The story kicks off with the death of a substitute teacher in the faculty lounge (because where else?), and spirals into a year of absurdity that only those who've worked in education could truly appreciate. From overzealous parents to bureaucratic nightmares, it's all here. 

Now, I'll be honest - not every chapter was a winner for me. Some dragged a bit, and I found myself skimming. But then I'd hit a section that was so spot-on in its depiction of the Texas public school system's follies that I couldn't help but laugh (or maybe cry a little). 

What Mathieu does brilliantly is remind us that teachers are people too. They have lives, dreams, and drama that extends beyond the classroom walls. The ensemble cast, including a former punk rocker principal and a rule-bending school nurse, brings depth and humanity to a profession often reduced to standardized test scores. 

At its heart, "The Faculty Lounge" is about finding connection and purpose in the daily grind. It's a love letter to educators wrapped in a layer of satire and sprinkled with genuine warmth. 

3.5 stars from me. It's not perfect, but neither is teaching. And sometimes, that's what makes it beautiful. 

Oh, Pippa Jones, how I relate to you! "Blank" by Zibby Owens is like peeking into the mind of every writer who's ever faced the dreaded blank page (and let's be honest, that's all of us at some point, right?).

This book popped up all over my social media, and when I saw it on Kindle Unlimited with an audio version, I couldn't resist. Sometimes you need a book that feels like chatting with a friend over coffee, and "Blank" delivers just that.

Pippa's journey from one-hit wonder to... well, I won't spoil it, but let's say it's a wild ride. Five days to write a book or repay an advance? Talk about pressure! But it's her "brilliant" solution (courtesy of her 12-year-old, because kids always have the answers, don't they?) that really kicks things into high gear.

What I loved about this book was its gentle reminder to trust your gut and believe in yourself. It's not groundbreaking advice, but sometimes we need to hear it wrapped up in a fun story about a mom trying to juggle family, career, and her own dreams. Plus, the importance of having ride-or-die friends? Preach, Zibby!

Now, I'll be honest - the ending got a bit chaotic for my taste. It felt like Owens was trying to wrap up every storyline with a neat bow, and it got a little tangled. But isn't that life sometimes? Messy, unpredictable, but ultimately satisfying.

3.5 stars from me. It's not going to change your life, but it might change your day - and sometimes, that's enough.

You know that feeling when you start watching a "new" show, and halfway through, you realize you've seen it before, but with different actors? That's this book in a nutshell.

Now, don't get me wrong. It's not a bad book. It's like comfort food - familiar, easy to digest, but not exactly gourmet. The story follows Olivia, whose pilot husband Dean vanishes over the Bermuda Triangle (because of course he does), and Melanie, a physicist with a fascination for said triangle and a penchant for complicating her life.

MacLean's writing style is smooth sailing. You'll breeze through this faster than a flight attendant can demonstrate how to use the oxygen mask. It's perfect for those days when your brain needs a vacation but your body's stuck at home.

The plot twists? Well, let's say they're more like gentle turns. You can see them coming from a mile away, but sometimes that's okay. It's like rewatching your favorite rom-com - you know what's going to happen, but you're here for the ride anyway.

What keeps this book afloat is the easy readability. It's like the literary equivalent of a float trip - you're not going anywhere fast, but the journey's pleasant enough.

I'm giving it 3.5 stars. It's not going to change your life or challenge your worldview, but it'll keep you entertained for a few hours. And sometimes, that's exactly what we need.

"Jackie" offers a nuanced, fictional exploration of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis's life that goes beyond the public persona we're all familiar with. The novel delves into Jackie's inner world, from her early twenties to her later years, providing a thoughtful interpretation of her relationships, ambitions, and the events that shaped her life.

What struck me most was Tripp's ability to humanize this iconic figure. The Jackie we meet here isn't just the poised First Lady or the tabloid sensation, but a complex woman grappling with love, loss, and her own identity. The writing is elegant and immersive, particularly in depicting the White House years and the aftermath of the assassination.

While it's important to remember this is fiction, Tripp's interpretation feels authentic and well-researched. It prompted me to reconsider what I thought I knew about Jackie's life and the era she lived through.

As someone who wasn't overly familiar with the details of Jackie's life beyond the broad strokes, I found this novel enlightening. It's earned its place in my top 10 for 2024.