jenspagesandponderings's reviews
276 reviews

"The Book of Doors" by Gareth Brown tantalized with its premise of magical realism and bibliophilic wonder, but ultimately left me feeling like I'd stepped through a familiar portal. While the concept of a book granting access to any door is undeniably intriguing, the execution fell short of its potential.

Cassie and her friend Izzy's adventures had moments of excitement, and the mysterious Drummond Fox added a layer of intrigue. However, plot holes and a sense of déjà vu from other stories in the genre prevented this from being a truly magical read.

Brown's writing creates an atmosphere of possibility, but the narrative struggles to maintain its uniqueness as it progresses. The promise of danger and a nameless evil hunting our protagonists didn't quite deliver the tension it promised.

Despite its shortcomings, "The Book of Doors" offers an escape for those who dream of literary-powered adventures. It reminds us that sometimes the most extraordinary journeys begin on a bookshelf.

Sarah Adams' "When in Rome" offers a charming escape into small-town Kentucky with a twist of celebrity glamour. The premise of a pop star seeking refuge in a quaint town is intriguing, and Adams does a good job of creating a cozy, welcoming atmosphere that readers can easily sink into.

Noah, the male lead, stands out with his admirable dedication to family and his pie shop. His initial grumpiness gives way to a softer side as the story progresses, making for a satisfying character arc. However, I found it harder to connect with Amelia, the female protagonist. While her desire for a normal life is understandable, her character development felt somewhat lacking.

The romance builds slowly, which allows for some sweet moments between Noah and Amelia. Their interactions, set against the backdrop of small-town life, provide most of the book's charm. Adams excels at creating a cast of quirky secondary characters that bring the town to life.

While not Adams' strongest work, "When in Rome" is still an enjoyable, light read. It's perfect for those seeking a low-stakes romance with a fish-out-of-water element. The book doesn't break new ground in the genre, but it delivers on its promise of a feel-good story.

Overall, "When in Rome" is a solid 3.75-star read. It's not without its flaws, but it's an easy, breezy book that's tailor-made for summer reading.

Y'all, grab your sweet tea and settle in, because Sarah Adams' "The Match" is about to steal your heart faster than you can say "bless your heart"!

Set against the charm of Charleston, this story follows Evie Jones, a firecracker of a woman with a heart of gold and a mission to keep Southern Service Paws afloat. Enter Jacob Broaden, a single dad who's just trying to do right by his daughter Sam. Their meet-cute? Let's just say it involves a meddling 10-year-old and some seriously crackling tension.

Adams has this magical ability to blend humor and depth that'll have you cackling one minute and reaching for the tissues the next. The banter between Evie and Jacob is top-notch.

But what really sets "The Match" apart is how it handles tougher topics. Epilepsy and the role of service animals are woven into the story with such care and authenticity. It's eye-opening without ever feeling heavy-handed. And let me tell you, watching Sam bond with Daisy? It's enough to melt even the coldest heart.

Evie's journey from a woman focused solely on others to someone who allows herself to be loved is beautifully done. And Jacob's growth as he learns to open his heart again? Chef's kiss.

Now, let's talk about the real scene-stealers: Charlie and Sam. These two (along with Daisy) bring so much joy and depth to the story. They're not just cute sidekicks – they're integral to the emotional core of the book.

"The Match" is more than just a romance – it's a story about found family, second chances, and the healing power of love (both human and canine). Adams has crafted a warm, funny, and touching tale that'll leave you with a big ol' smile and maybe a newfound appreciation for service animals.

So if you're in the mood for a romance that's got humor, heart, and a whole lot of Southern charm, "The Match" is your perfect... well, match!

"The Same Bright Stars" is a luminous exploration of life's crossroads, family legacies, and the courage it takes to chart a new course. This novel is a departure from Joella's previous works, focusing on one main character, Jack Schmidt, and the constellation of supporting characters that orbit his world.

Jack, the third-generation owner of Schmidt's, a beloved beachfront restaurant, finds himself at a pivotal moment. He's dedicated his life to the family business, sacrificing personal relationships and his own desires in the process. When the DelDine group comes knocking with a generous offer to buy the restaurant, Jack is forced to confront questions of identity, purpose, and happiness.

Joella's prose is, as always, a thing of beauty. He has a remarkable ability to capture the nuances of human emotion and the weight of unspoken words. The way he weaves Jack's past and present creates a rich tapestry of memories, regrets, and possibilities that feels achingly real.

The supporting characters are far from mere background players. Each one adds depth and complexity to Jack's story, from his loyal staff to potential love interests, and even the ghosts of his family's past. These relationships serve as mirrors, reflecting different aspects of Jack's struggle and potential.

What sets "The Same Bright Stars" apart is its honest portrayal of mid-life introspection. Jack's questioning of his life's path will resonate with many readers, especially those who have found themselves wondering if they've been living life on autopilot. Joella handles this theme with sensitivity and insight, never judging his character but instead inviting readers to empathize with Jack's journey.

The beach setting is more than just a backdrop; it becomes a character in its own right. Joella's descriptions of the coastal community, the ebb and flow of tourist seasons, and the timeless nature of the ocean itself add a layer of depth to the story.

"The Same Bright Stars" is a novel about choices – those we make, those made for us, and the courage it takes to imagine a different future. It's about the weight of family legacy and the freedom that comes from defining success on our own terms.

Ethan Joella has once again delivered a story that feels like a warm embrace, comforting yet challenging, familiar yet fresh. It's a book that will leave you contemplating your own life's journey and the bright stars that guide us all.

Annabel Monaghan's "Summer Romance" is a heartwarming delight that proves sometimes the best things in life come when we least expect them – even if they're ushered in by an overly enthusiastic dog!

At the center of this charming story is Ali Morris, a professional organizer whose own life has become anything but organized. Struggling with the loss of her mother and the end of her marriage, Ali has retreated into a world of comfort food and stretchy pants. But when she finally decides to step out of her comfort zone (overalls count as real pants, right?), life throws her a curveball in the form of Ethan – and her dog's, well, enthusiastic greeting.

What unfolds is a beautiful, often hilarious journey of rediscovery. Monaghan's writing shines with wit and warmth, perfectly capturing the awkward, messy, and utterly endearing moments of starting over. Ali's transformation from a woman hiding from life to one embracing its possibilities is both relatable and inspiring.

But "Summer Romance" isn't just about finding new love – it's about rediscovering yourself. Ali's journey to reclaim her confidence and joy is the true heart of the story. Monaghan deftly balances moments of laugh-out-loud humor with touching insights about grief, growth, and the courage it takes to open your heart again.

The supporting cast of characters adds depth and color to the story, from Ali's loyal friends to her precocious child. Each interaction feels genuine, adding to the cozy, feel-good atmosphere of the book.

 Adam Rapp's "Wolf at the Table" is an ambitious exploration of violence and its ripple effects across generations. Set against the backdrop of mid-20th century America, the novel traces the Larkin family's journey through five tumultuous decades.

Rapp's narrative prowess shines as he crafts a story that begins in 1951 in Elmira, New York, with young Myra Lee Larkin's encounter with Micky Mantle and quickly spirals into a tale of grim fascination. The author deftly weaves together the lives of the Larkin siblings, each grappling with their brushes with violence and power dynamics.

The novel's strength lies in its unflinching examination of the American dream's darker underpinnings. Rapp's characters are complex and deeply flawed, their struggles resonating with a raw authenticity that is both compelling and disquieting. The author's exploration of themes such as class, power, and the facade of propriety in Catholic values adds depth to the narrative.

While the quality of writing is undoubtedly high, showcasing why Rapp is a Pulitzer Prize finalist, the relentless darkness of the subject matter may prove challenging for some readers. The novel demands a strong stomach and a willingness to confront uncomfortable truths about society and human nature.

"Wolf at the Table" is not a light read, but it is a powerful one. Rapp's ability to cut to the heart of his characters and reveal the devastating reality beneath societal veneers is remarkable. For those willing to engage with its difficult themes, the novel offers a thought-provoking and unforgettable literary experience. 

"Joe Nuthin's Guide to Life" attempts to tell an uplifting story about a neurodivergent young man finding his place in the world. The novel starts strong, introducing Joe-Nathan and his mother's notebooks of life advice. However, the narrative loses steam in the middle and concludes with a somewhat underwhelming ending.

Fisher's portrayal of neurodivergence, while well-intentioned, may not resonate with those who have firsthand experience with the community. As someone with a background in special education, I found the characterizations to be somewhat off-base.

Despite these shortcomings, the book does have its moments. The themes of friendship and personal growth are touching, even if they don't always land as intended.

While the book has potential, it ultimately falls short of fully realizing its premise.

"Seven Summer Weekends" is a delightful summer escape that will leave you feeling warm and fuzzy. This was my first Jane Rosen book, and it definitely won't be my last!

The story follows Addison, who inherits a Fire Island beach house (and its eclectic guest list) after a career setback. Watching her navigate new possibilities while butting heads with her grumpy-but-handsome neighbor is pure entertainment.

Rosen's writing is breezy and engaging, perfect for a poolside read. The cast of characters is colorful and well-developed, adding depth to this light-hearted romance.

As someone who's been feeling a bit untethered lately, Addison's journey of self-discovery really resonated with me. It's a gentle reminder that sometimes life's detours can lead to the best destinations.

A solid four-star read that's perfect for anyone looking for a feel-good summer story with a dash of romance.

"Table for Two" is a sophisticated collection of short stories and a novella that showcases Amor Towles' versatility as a writer. Set primarily in New York and Los Angeles, these tales span different time periods, offering insightful glimpses into human nature and relationships.

The New York stories, mostly set around the turn of the millennium, delve into various aspects of human interaction - from brief encounters to marital dynamics. Each story is meticulously crafted, rich in detail and subtle observations that Towles is known for.

The inclusion of "Eve in Hollywood," a novella following Evelyn Ross from "Rules of Civility," adds depth to the collection, providing a satisfying continuation for fans of Towles' earlier work.
Towles' writing style remains consistently evocative, creating vivid imagery that brings each story to life. While different from his full-length novels, this collection maintains his trademark sophistication and wit.

A thoughtful 4-star read, ideal for those who appreciate nuanced storytelling and character studies in a more condensed format.

A charming, gentle comedy that brings together an eclectic group of seniors at a community center facing closure. Lydia, the new manager, discovers that these seemingly ordinary elders are full of surprises – from Art, the kleptomaniac ex-actor, to Ruby, who enacts revenge through knitting.

Pooley excels at highlighting the often-overlooked older generation, reminding us of the wealth of experience, humor, and even mischief that our elders possess. The unlikely alliance between the seniors, a daycare next door, and a teenage father adds depth and intergenerational charm to the story.

While not quite reaching the emotional impact of "Iona Iverson," this book is still a heartwarming, uplifting read. Corbett's narration brings each character to life beautifully. A perfect choice for those seeking a gentle, feel-good story with a dash of humor and a lot of heart.