tessa_talks_books's reviews
1184 reviews

 Book Review: Get Lost With You by Sophie Sullivan

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Sophie Sullivan has done it again with Get Lost With You, the second book in her heartwarming trilogy, Rock Bottom Love! This small-town romance is like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket—it’s full of familiar faces, family bonds, and a love story that feels as genuine as it is sweet.

The story centers around Jilly, a single mother navigating life’s challenges, and Levi, her childhood friend and her brother’s best friend (swoon). What makes their romance so captivating is how grounded it feels. They’ve both loved and lost, yet their connection blooms naturally, rooted in years of shared history and a growing sense of trust. It’s not all sparks and longing glances (though there’s plenty of that!); it’s also about late-night conversations, small gestures, and mutual support.

If you’re a fan of tropes, this book delivers in spades: small-town? Check. Brothers’ best friend? Oh yes. Friends to lovers with a dash of second chances? Absolutely. But what makes it stand out is how it weaves those elements into a heartfelt exploration of family. Jilly’s relationship with her daughter, Ollie, is tender and joyful, while Levi’s interactions with Jilly and her family show his depth and kindness. You can’t help but root for him and them as a couple.

And speaking of family, seeing more of Beckett and Presley from the first book (Love Naturally) was a treat. Their dynamic with Jilly and Levi adds warmth and humor, making it like catching up with old friends.

This isn’t a 5-star read for me because the pacing occasionally felt a bit slow, particularly in the middle. But the emotional payoff at the end? Totally worth it.

If you love sweet romances with heart, laughter, and a dash of small-town charm, Get Lost With You is a must-read. I’m already counting down the days for the final book in the trilogy!

too much with the deer hunting/slaughtering

 When I picked up The Snowbirds, I was drawn in by the premise—who hasn’t dreamed of escaping to a sunny, carefree paradise or wondered about the secrets hidden in seemingly perfect lives? It sounded so relatable, and I was ready for a poignant, emotionally rich story. But, unfortunately, the characters made it hard for me to fully connect.

Both main characters lacked the relatability and warmth I crave in a good book. Neither felt likable enough to root for, which left me holding the story at arm’s length. Their choices and motivations often felt frustrating or perplexing, making it tough to stay fully invested in their journey.

By the middle, I found myself a little bored, waiting for the emotional payoff I had hoped the book would deliver. But here’s the thing—the ending? It was just right. It tied things together in a way that felt satisfying and brought a depth I wish the entire story had maintained. If the rest of the book had captured the same tone and resonance as the ending, I think it would’ve been a much more impactful read.

While this one didn’t fully click for me, I could see others enjoying it for the coastal settings and themes of self-discovery. If you’re drawn to stories about flawed relationships and finding closure, you might still want to give it a try. 

Neal Schusterman’s All Better Now presents a captivating and thought-provoking concept: what if a virus could erase all negative emotions, leaving only eternal contentment in its wake? Set in a world grappling with another global pandemic, Crown Royale, the novel delves into weighty questions about humanity, identity, and the cost of happiness.

The premise of All Better Now is undeniably intriguing, and Schusterman’s writing is as insightful as ever. The central conflict—whether the virus is a blessing or a curse—sets the stage for some truly engaging and thought-provoking discussions, making this a solid pick for book clubs or anyone who loves unpacking moral dilemmas.

That said, my reading experience wasn’t as immersive as I’d hoped. The constant switching between three POVs—Morgan, Mariel, and Rón—kept me at arm’s length from the characters, and the abundance of side stories and secondary characters made the narrative feel scattered. While the concept is strong, the execution felt overly ambitious, stretching the story longer than it needed to be.

And while the pandemic backdrop is eerily familiar, it might hit a little too close to home for some readers. The masks, isolation, and split public opinions on the virus will undoubtedly remind many of COVID-19, for better or worse.

In the end, I appreciated the big questions All Better Now asks, but the storytelling didn’t quite live up to the potential of its premise. It’s a decent read for those who enjoy speculative fiction with a philosophical edge but be prepared for some narrative overload.

Would I recommend it? Yes, but with a caveat: go in for the discussions, not the immersion.

 What's better than a cozy mystery? A cozy mystery that dives into the world of cryptozoology! Beast of the North Woods, the third book in Annelise Ryan's Monster Hunter Mystery series, is an absolute treat for anyone who loves an unusual hobby as a backdrop for a whodunit. I mean, cryptozoology?! Hodags?! I didn't know I needed to know about these things, but now I'm obsessed.

This installment follows Morgan Carter, a bookstore owner and a monster hunter (talk about a double life!), as she investigates a murder that may or may not involve Wisconsin's own cryptid, the Hodag. The mix of folklore, science, and mystery gave the story a unique texture—it is not every day you read a cozy that seamlessly blends small-town charm with supernatural speculation.

I'll admit I jumped into this series out of order. While I wish I'd had all the backstory on Morgan and her crew, I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to pick up and follow. Ryan does an excellent job weaving in just enough context to immerse newcomers like me while still driving the plot forward for returning fans.

What I loved most was the way the book balanced intrigue and lightheartedness. Morgan is such an engaging protagonist—smart, relatable, and just skeptical enough about her monster-hunting work to make it believable. The side characters added depth and humor, making the small-town setting wonderfully vivid. Plus, the Hodag lore was fascinating. It had me Googling halfway through because I needed to know if this mythical creature had real-life roots. (Spoiler: It does! Kind of.)

If you're seeking a mystery that breaks away from the usual cozy tropes, this series—especially this book—is a gem waiting to be discovered. Whether you're drawn to the murder mystery, the quirky characters, or the deep dive into folklore, Beast of the North Woods delivers. It's a book worth every page, and I'm off to track down books one and two because I need the complete Monster Hunter experience.

Perfect for fans of: quirky hobbies, cryptids, folklore-infused mysteries, and small-town drama with a twist.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5 

Wow. Just… wow. Renée Rosen has done it again, crafting a story that’s not just a history lesson but a deep, emotional journey into one of the most iconic cultural phenomena ever: Barbie. This book is an absolute must-readfor anyone who’s ever loved (or questioned) that little pink box on the shelf. Let’s dive in!

The story of Barbie’s creation is as compelling as the doll herself. It’s not just about a piece of molded plastic; it’s about ambition, vision, and the societal landscape that inspired and resisted her. Ruth Handler, co-founder of Mattel, saw a gap in the toy market—girls needed something aspirational, not just baby dolls to mothers. Enter Barbie, a doll that could be anything a girl dreamed of being. Rosen dives into the real grit of what it took to bring Barbie to life, from Ruth’s relentless determination to Jack Ryan’s technical brilliance. The balance between innovation and controversy is fascinating, and Rosen weaves it all together with such tension and energy that I couldn’t put the book down.

Reading this book gave me a new appreciation for Barbie as a product of her time and a symbol of change. In the 1950s, Barbie represented a daring, almost scandalous break from the norm. She wasn’t a homemaker or a caretaker—she was independent, stylish, and ambitious. Over the decades, her role has shifted; sometimes, she is celebrated for empowering young girls, and other times, she is criticized for unrealistic beauty standards. Rosen doesn’t shy away from these complexities, showing how Barbie has remained a lightning rod for cultural debates while evolving into a more inclusive, diverse figure. It’s a nuanced, thought-provoking look at how one doll has reflected and shaped society over generations.

Let’s talk about Ruth Handler and Jack Ryan. These two are the heart of the story, and wow, are they layered. Ruth is ambitious to the point of obsession, a visionary who pushes boundaries and isn’t afraid to ruffle feathers. But she’s also profoundly human, struggling with societal expectations, her insecurities, and the consequences of her drive. Jack Ryan, meanwhile, is a genius with a flair for the dramatic, bringing Barbie to life with his technical expertise but battling his demons along the way. Their dynamic is electric—full of admiration, tension, and messy, complicated emotions that make you feel like you know them.

Let’s Call Her Barbie is more than a historical novel—it’s a deep dive into ambition, innovation, and the human stories behind one of the most famous toys in history. Renée Rosen has created something truly special here, blending history with emotion in a way that will stay with you long after you turn the last page. If you love stories about flawed but brilliant people, cultural icons, and the messy realities of bringing big ideas to life, this one’s for you.

If Indiana Jones were a quirky, sharp-witted woman with a penchant for breaking rules and dodging traps in ancient ruins, she'd be Dr. Miriam Jackson—better known as Miri to those brave enough to keep up with her. Jo Segura's Temple of Swoon delivers a thrilling, laugh-out-loud, action-packed adventure. I couldn't help but get swept away by its irresistible charm.

First, let's talk about Miri. She's the kind of protagonist who jumps off the page, all determination and sass, with just enough vulnerability to make her relatable. I was hooked from the moment she pulled out her stash of snacks when stranded in a remote area, earning her the nickname "Pringles." Miri's wit and determination are the driving forces of the story, making her the perfect mix of brains, determination, and sass.

Then there's Rafe, the journalist/saboteur-turned-love-interest. Their romance? Classic instalove gold. It was a delight to watch Miri and Rafe banter and bicker their way through death traps, cryptic puzzles, and ancient curses. The tension between them builds perfectly, and every stolen glance, snarky remark, and begrudging moment of trust pulls me deeper into their relationship. When they moved from adversaries to fighting for each other, I was swooning along with the title.
The story's pacing is as relentless as the obstacles Miri and Rafe face. Segura keeps the stakes high and the action flowing with ancient legends, dangerous expeditions, and plenty of "oh no, how are they getting out of this?" moments. I barely had time to catch my breath before another twist hurtled the characters into more danger (and often, hilarious chaos).

Why four stars instead of five? While I adored romance and action, I wished more depth in the secondary characters and world-building. The supporting cast and mythology surrounding the "Temple of Swoon" were intriguing. Still, they could've been explored just a bit more. That said, it didn't stop me from devouring this book and grinning the whole way through.

Temple of Swoon is a treasure you'll want to uncover if you love fast-paced adventures, banter-filled romance, and a leading lady who's as clever as she is bold. Miri and Rafe's journey will leave you rooting for them long after the final page—and maybe planning your next (fictional) expedition.

 Book Review: Build a Girlfriend by Elba Luz

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ (4.5 stars)

Oh, Build a Girlfriend, you charming little rom-com. This book gave me all the warm fuzzies, especially with its heartwarming focus on family and the adorable chaos of Amelia’s journey.

Let’s start with Amelia. She’s the kind of protagonist you can’t help but root for—quirky, clumsy, and just so endearingly human. I loved how her clumsiness wasn’t just a cute gimmick but tied into her deeper insecurities and growth. Watching her fumble (both literally and emotionally) and then rise above it made her arc so satisfying.

Can we talk about her family? The predominantly female, close-knit dynamic was such a joy to read. From supportive moments to hilarious meddling, it felt vibrant and real. You could feel the love in every scene, and it added so much depth to the story.

Now, Leon. Oh, Leon. He’s the perfect MMC for a rom-com like this—kind, charming, and just the right amount of brooding. Their chemistry had me grinning like a fool, but here’s where the miscommunication trope comes in. Sigh. I wanted to shake Leon and Amelia for their lack of honest conversations. It stretched a bit too long for my liking, but at least the payoff made up for the frustration.

The rom-com vibes were spot on, with plenty of laugh-out-loud moments, swoony scenes, and that sprinkle of chaos that keeps you flipping the pages. If you’re looking for a book with heart, humor, and a protagonist you’ll want to hug (and maybe shake a little), Build a Girlfriend is a great pick.

It’s not quite a perfect five stars for me, mostly because of the lingering miscommunication. But honestly? The charm, humor, and family warmth more than makeup for it. This one will stick with me for a while!

📚 Perfect for fans of The Hating Game and The Unhoneymooners. 

🌟🌟🌟🌟 Four-Star Review for The Really Dead Wives of New Jersey by Astrid Dahl

If you’ve ever thought The Real Housewives franchise needed a little murder mystery, you’re in for a treat with The Really Dead Wives of New Jersey! Astrid Dahl delivers a deliciously dramatic whodunit wrapped in reality TV's glittering, gossip-fueled chaos. It’s a murder mystery with catfights, cocktails, and enough twists to keep you on your toes.

What I loved most was the clever concept. Setting a murder mystery on the set of a Housewives-style show was genius—it had all the glitz and over-the-top drama you’d expect, plus a dark undercurrent of secrets and betrayal. Dahl perfectly captures reality TV's ridiculous (yet somehow mesmerizing) world, and watching the drama unfold while trying to piece together the clues was such fun. I also appreciated how the tension built with each new revelation, keeping me guessing until the end.

That said, I’ll admit I struggled to remember who was who. It was easy to get a little lost in the chaos between the cast of over-the-top characters and the drama coming at me from all angles. It made it hard to immerse myself in the story at times fully, but then again, isn’t that kind of the Housewives experience?

If you love reality TV, murder mysteries, or just want a book as outrageous as it is entertaining, this one is worth picking up. It’s like binge-watching your favorite guilty pleasure show with a sinister twist. Just ensure you bring a notebook for all the characters—trust me, it helps!

Perfect for Fans of Knives Out, Big Little Lies, and anyone who secretly loves a Housewives marathon.

 

A Mixed Bag of Romance and Comedy
Amanda Sellet’s Hate to Fake It to You feels like a quick jaunt to paradise—fun in theory, but it doesn’t quite stick the landing. The premise? A waitress pretending to be a social media influencer. I mean, talk about the potential for chaos, right? And yes, there are moments when comedic sparks fly, but the overall execution falls short of being a total knockout. Instead, the story settles into something… OK. Not bad, not exceptional—just fine.

The Tropes Are Trooping
If you love rom-com staples like fake relationships, opposites attracting, and the dramatic "big reveal," you’ll find them all here! But while tropes can be cozy and comforting, they need a little extra flair to feel fresh. Unfortunately, Sellet leans hard on the classics without bringing much of a twist, so the story feels a bit too predictable.

Final Thoughts
Hate to Fake It to You is a cute, fluffy read for when you need something light and easy. It doesn’t break new ground in the rom-com world, but there’s still some fun to be had, especially if you’re here for the witty banter and small-town vibes. With a little more depth, stronger pacing, and grounded humor, this could’ve been a real gem. For now, it’s a solid three stars—fun, but not life-changing.