75 Books...More or Less! discussion
Archive (2020 GR Challenge)
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Let's hope my vision is still 2020 after this reading year!
#1
Schattenfrau
5/5 stars
First five star read in the series, and only because the identity of the Schattenfrau is so damn amazing!

5/5 stars
First five star read in the series, and only because the identity of the Schattenfrau is so damn amazing!
#2
The Beautiful Poetry of Donald Trump
5/5 stars
One of my 2020 goals is to read poetry. Well, color me excited, when I found this "poetry" collection. I listened to this book and Jon Culshaw does an excellent job imitating Trump's voice. The poems are freaking hilarious. This was well worth my time!

5/5 stars
One of my 2020 goals is to read poetry. Well, color me excited, when I found this "poetry" collection. I listened to this book and Jon Culshaw does an excellent job imitating Trump's voice. The poems are freaking hilarious. This was well worth my time!

I agree Juli. I have some books on my shelf written by authors from different countries as well that I hope to read this year. It's good to expand our horizons this way. I just picked up a book today from the library by a Chinese author.
Juli wrote: "#2
The Beautiful Poetry of Donald Trump
5/5 stars
One of my 2020 goals is to read poetry. Well, color me excited, when I..."
hahahahahahahahaha dying!!

5/5 stars
One of my 2020 goals is to read poetry. Well, color me excited, when I..."
hahahahahahahahaha dying!!
#3
The Little Bookshop on the Seine
3/5 stars
I would like to thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for my advanced copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Sarah is happy with her man, Ridge, … or is she? She works in her quaint bookshop in Connecticut while he is busy traveling the world chasing one news story after another. Too much time in between visits? Too many excuses? In comes an offer Sarah can’t refuse – swap bookshops with a friend in Paris. Think the movie, The Holiday, but with your business. Will that bring her closer to Ridge? Will that get her out of the rut she has gotten herself into?
I really enjoyed Sarah’s character. I admired that this story takes place after she found her man (Side note: come to find out this is the second book in a series but does really well as a stand-alone. In fact, I don’t care a bit about reading the development of Ridge and Sarah’s romance aka book #1). I adored everything Paris – the bookshop history, the bookshop characters, and reminiscing of visiting all the places myself as Sarah frequents them. I absolutely hated Ridge. What a tool! The book gets 3 stars solely because of him. The romance between the two just wasn’t believable. Sarah tremendously grew as a person through her journey in Paris and any girl in her shoes would’ve given Ridge the boot a long time ago. This novel could’ve had a much stronger (and unique message for the romance genre) had the author tweaked Sarah’s story just slightly.
All in all, this was a very enjoyable read with an interesting heroine and a cute plot. Sadly, the predictive and seemingly contradictive ending to the protagonist’s own change makes this book just a fluff read rather than an impactful novel.

3/5 stars
I would like to thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for my advanced copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Sarah is happy with her man, Ridge, … or is she? She works in her quaint bookshop in Connecticut while he is busy traveling the world chasing one news story after another. Too much time in between visits? Too many excuses? In comes an offer Sarah can’t refuse – swap bookshops with a friend in Paris. Think the movie, The Holiday, but with your business. Will that bring her closer to Ridge? Will that get her out of the rut she has gotten herself into?
I really enjoyed Sarah’s character. I admired that this story takes place after she found her man (Side note: come to find out this is the second book in a series but does really well as a stand-alone. In fact, I don’t care a bit about reading the development of Ridge and Sarah’s romance aka book #1). I adored everything Paris – the bookshop history, the bookshop characters, and reminiscing of visiting all the places myself as Sarah frequents them. I absolutely hated Ridge. What a tool! The book gets 3 stars solely because of him. The romance between the two just wasn’t believable. Sarah tremendously grew as a person through her journey in Paris and any girl in her shoes would’ve given Ridge the boot a long time ago. This novel could’ve had a much stronger (and unique message for the romance genre) had the author tweaked Sarah’s story just slightly.
All in all, this was a very enjoyable read with an interesting heroine and a cute plot. Sadly, the predictive and seemingly contradictive ending to the protagonist’s own change makes this book just a fluff read rather than an impactful novel.
Katie wrote: "Love your goals, Juli! I'm always trying to broaden my reading horizons geographically.
Lol at the poetry selection!"
Thank you!
Lol at the poetry selection!"
Thank you!
#4
The Phantom of the Opera
5/5 stars
I would like to thank NetGalley and the publisher for my advanced copy of this re-release in exchange for an honest review.
Poisoned Pen Press does a lovely re-release of this wonderful classic Gothic horror tale. I think the story is pretty well known but for anyone who has lived under a rock for the past 100 or so years, here is a quick recap. Fair maiden and all-around talented Parisian performer, Christine, meets The Angel of Music, aka Eric aka The Opera Ghost. Raoul, an old childhood friend, a regular opera enthusiast, and bonafide star-struck lover is not too pleased about this connection. Does Christine love him or the evil masked man? Is the masked man real or truly a ghost? And how does The Persian fit into all this? Of course, there is singing, intrigue, a mysterious underground lake, and the issue with the missing money as well as a few deaths, and some other odd occurrences; making this an epic novel of Gothic proportions.
I absolutely enjoyed Leroux's writing. It reminded me of Lewis' The Monk, Mary Shelley's Frankenstein, and even Stoker's Dracula. I imagine this novel was quite a scandal when it was published. It clearly has erotic undertones, makes fun of Parisian society, and plays with our fears. There are love and jealousy, revenge and murder plots, paranormal events, some comedy, and a whole lot of sarcasm. It's kind of delicious, to be honest. One of my favorite things is that the narrator breaks the fourth wall talking to the reader. In a surprising way, Leroux recounts actual events of the Parisian Opera, and we are left hanging to find out how much of this story is real and what is fiction. The entire book could be just an eye-witness report of some puzzling events that took place in 19th century Paris allowing our imagination to go wild.
I highly recommend picking up this wonderful re-release and to check out any others in The Haunted Library of Horror Classics by Poison Pen Press. This collection will be a horror-fan-delight.

5/5 stars
I would like to thank NetGalley and the publisher for my advanced copy of this re-release in exchange for an honest review.
Poisoned Pen Press does a lovely re-release of this wonderful classic Gothic horror tale. I think the story is pretty well known but for anyone who has lived under a rock for the past 100 or so years, here is a quick recap. Fair maiden and all-around talented Parisian performer, Christine, meets The Angel of Music, aka Eric aka The Opera Ghost. Raoul, an old childhood friend, a regular opera enthusiast, and bonafide star-struck lover is not too pleased about this connection. Does Christine love him or the evil masked man? Is the masked man real or truly a ghost? And how does The Persian fit into all this? Of course, there is singing, intrigue, a mysterious underground lake, and the issue with the missing money as well as a few deaths, and some other odd occurrences; making this an epic novel of Gothic proportions.
I absolutely enjoyed Leroux's writing. It reminded me of Lewis' The Monk, Mary Shelley's Frankenstein, and even Stoker's Dracula. I imagine this novel was quite a scandal when it was published. It clearly has erotic undertones, makes fun of Parisian society, and plays with our fears. There are love and jealousy, revenge and murder plots, paranormal events, some comedy, and a whole lot of sarcasm. It's kind of delicious, to be honest. One of my favorite things is that the narrator breaks the fourth wall talking to the reader. In a surprising way, Leroux recounts actual events of the Parisian Opera, and we are left hanging to find out how much of this story is real and what is fiction. The entire book could be just an eye-witness report of some puzzling events that took place in 19th century Paris allowing our imagination to go wild.
I highly recommend picking up this wonderful re-release and to check out any others in The Haunted Library of Horror Classics by Poison Pen Press. This collection will be a horror-fan-delight.
#5
Winterbay Abbey
4/5 stars
A modern Gothic tale that revivals the atmosphere of many much older works. I enjoyed this story quite a bit. Both authors truly have a knack for conjuring a perfect ghostly setting. I think the book would've been more powerful had the protagonist been female. The ending was a bit abrupt as well. All in all though, this should be a must-read for any Gothic horror fan.

4/5 stars
A modern Gothic tale that revivals the atmosphere of many much older works. I enjoyed this story quite a bit. Both authors truly have a knack for conjuring a perfect ghostly setting. I think the book would've been more powerful had the protagonist been female. The ending was a bit abrupt as well. All in all though, this should be a must-read for any Gothic horror fan.
#6
When We Were Vikings
4/5 stars
I would like to thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for my advanced copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
What a debut novel?! MacDonald just entered the literary world with a bang.
We meet Zelda, a 21-year-old woman with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, who is in the throws of making sense of herself and the world around her. Socioeconomic struggles, as well as prejudiced views, affect her and her tribe deeply but Zelda tackles them with such heart and brilliance you can’t help but root for her every step of the way. She is a relatable and incredibly likable character. Her love for Vikings is contagious. The plotline is interesting but almost secondary in this unique coming-of-age novel.
There are a few features I enjoyed tremendously in this book. Zelda is unique and her inner monologue is captivating. Her brother, Gert, is incredibly complex. At times I wanted to hug him and tell him what a wonderful person he is. He has a big heart coupled with a profound sense of responsibility and ambition. At other times, I wanted to shake him and yell “what in the world were you thinking?”. While I haven’t had the same struggles as Gert I could acutely relate to this character. We have all been that age where our actions constantly switch between those of a responsible adult and a very lost teenager. The difference is that most of us weren’t also the sole provider for a disabled sibling at the same time. AK47 doesn’t just have a badass name but is all around a badass female role model. Her astute and innate knowledge of what’s right and wrong is only made better by her perseverance and complete willingness to stand up for her beliefs. AK47 and Gert struggle with their own issues and as a reader, we get to explore those through the eyes of Zelda, which gives this complex “love story” a rare twist. Those issues are also in stark contrast to Zelda’s own relationship issues – they’re both valid but of completely different consequences which gave this YA novel a very mature adult-like quality.
I think this is a wonderful book for many more reasons than I have mentioned but at its core, it beautifully captures the human condition and makes the reader think. Yes, there are problems with the way MacDonald presents an individual with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome at times but that doesn’t take away that this book made me feel simultaneously light-hearted and gut-wrenchingly heavy. This novel is one that takes time to digest. It prompts us to re-evaluate what we think, how we react, and how we want to proceed forward. And honestly, isn’t that one of the most profound experiences literature is supposed to bring about in us?!

4/5 stars
I would like to thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for my advanced copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
What a debut novel?! MacDonald just entered the literary world with a bang.
We meet Zelda, a 21-year-old woman with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, who is in the throws of making sense of herself and the world around her. Socioeconomic struggles, as well as prejudiced views, affect her and her tribe deeply but Zelda tackles them with such heart and brilliance you can’t help but root for her every step of the way. She is a relatable and incredibly likable character. Her love for Vikings is contagious. The plotline is interesting but almost secondary in this unique coming-of-age novel.
There are a few features I enjoyed tremendously in this book. Zelda is unique and her inner monologue is captivating. Her brother, Gert, is incredibly complex. At times I wanted to hug him and tell him what a wonderful person he is. He has a big heart coupled with a profound sense of responsibility and ambition. At other times, I wanted to shake him and yell “what in the world were you thinking?”. While I haven’t had the same struggles as Gert I could acutely relate to this character. We have all been that age where our actions constantly switch between those of a responsible adult and a very lost teenager. The difference is that most of us weren’t also the sole provider for a disabled sibling at the same time. AK47 doesn’t just have a badass name but is all around a badass female role model. Her astute and innate knowledge of what’s right and wrong is only made better by her perseverance and complete willingness to stand up for her beliefs. AK47 and Gert struggle with their own issues and as a reader, we get to explore those through the eyes of Zelda, which gives this complex “love story” a rare twist. Those issues are also in stark contrast to Zelda’s own relationship issues – they’re both valid but of completely different consequences which gave this YA novel a very mature adult-like quality.
I think this is a wonderful book for many more reasons than I have mentioned but at its core, it beautifully captures the human condition and makes the reader think. Yes, there are problems with the way MacDonald presents an individual with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome at times but that doesn’t take away that this book made me feel simultaneously light-hearted and gut-wrenchingly heavy. This novel is one that takes time to digest. It prompts us to re-evaluate what we think, how we react, and how we want to proceed forward. And honestly, isn’t that one of the most profound experiences literature is supposed to bring about in us?!
#7
The First Free Women: Poems of the Early Buddhist Nuns
4/5 stars
I would like to thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for my advanced copy of this poetry collection in exchange for an honest review.
This is a new translation of poems by the first Buddhist nuns. This translation feels special. It comes from the heart rather than being a technical one. I have not read any other versions of these poems but I deeply connected with Weingast’s interpretations. The poetry in these pages is spellbinding. Not just because it is an incredible historical witness account but also because it is inspiringly raw, emotional, and feminist. These women came from all walks of life – mothers, trophy wives, and prostitutes just to name a few – and their journeys are reflected in this collection. Their words do not sugar-coat their struggle. The women aren’t hiding their pasts. Instead, they build on it and share their paths and their growth with us, the readers. Yet, they don’t just present the solution. No, …. that one is found in between the lines, hidden among allegories and metaphors, experienced through their word choices and emotional undertones of the poems themselves. Even if you don’t identify with their religion, The First Free Women are all of us. I dare you to tell me you cannot relate to at least a single poem in this book!

4/5 stars
I would like to thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for my advanced copy of this poetry collection in exchange for an honest review.
This is a new translation of poems by the first Buddhist nuns. This translation feels special. It comes from the heart rather than being a technical one. I have not read any other versions of these poems but I deeply connected with Weingast’s interpretations. The poetry in these pages is spellbinding. Not just because it is an incredible historical witness account but also because it is inspiringly raw, emotional, and feminist. These women came from all walks of life – mothers, trophy wives, and prostitutes just to name a few – and their journeys are reflected in this collection. Their words do not sugar-coat their struggle. The women aren’t hiding their pasts. Instead, they build on it and share their paths and their growth with us, the readers. Yet, they don’t just present the solution. No, …. that one is found in between the lines, hidden among allegories and metaphors, experienced through their word choices and emotional undertones of the poems themselves. Even if you don’t identify with their religion, The First Free Women are all of us. I dare you to tell me you cannot relate to at least a single poem in this book!
#8
Nineteen
3/5 stars
I would like to thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for my advanced copy of this poetry collection in exchange for an honest review.
This poetry collection features poems composed when the author was 19 years old. I think due to that I found myself only drawn to certain poems. Many felt very teen angsty and centered around topics that are important to you when you’re a teenager, and let’s face it I am far from that by now. A few though seemed incredibly mature and timeless – they most often dealt with family and non-romantic relationships. Those, in my opinion, let the author shine. It’s clear how talented Makenzie Campbell is and I foresee her influencing the poetry genre quite a bit in the future. Indeed, I am looking forward to following her personal growth and development. She already manipulates language in a way that hits you deeply, that makes you think, and that challenges you to look within yourself. I can only imagine where she goes from here. Until then, I will be checking out her other publications as this book has made me curious about her art. Overall, Nineteen is well-worth your time if you’re going through heartbreak, romantic loss, are in the throes of transitioning from childhood to adulthood, or just want to get a better sense of how a 19-year-old experiences such events. I, for one, am glad I have this behind me though, and maybe that was the reason why I couldn’t easily relate to these poems. But isn’t it amazing how profoundly subjective poetry feels to us?!

3/5 stars
I would like to thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for my advanced copy of this poetry collection in exchange for an honest review.
This poetry collection features poems composed when the author was 19 years old. I think due to that I found myself only drawn to certain poems. Many felt very teen angsty and centered around topics that are important to you when you’re a teenager, and let’s face it I am far from that by now. A few though seemed incredibly mature and timeless – they most often dealt with family and non-romantic relationships. Those, in my opinion, let the author shine. It’s clear how talented Makenzie Campbell is and I foresee her influencing the poetry genre quite a bit in the future. Indeed, I am looking forward to following her personal growth and development. She already manipulates language in a way that hits you deeply, that makes you think, and that challenges you to look within yourself. I can only imagine where she goes from here. Until then, I will be checking out her other publications as this book has made me curious about her art. Overall, Nineteen is well-worth your time if you’re going through heartbreak, romantic loss, are in the throes of transitioning from childhood to adulthood, or just want to get a better sense of how a 19-year-old experiences such events. I, for one, am glad I have this behind me though, and maybe that was the reason why I couldn’t easily relate to these poems. But isn’t it amazing how profoundly subjective poetry feels to us?!
#9
The Indestructible Houseplant: 200 Beautiful Plants that Everyone Can Grow
3/5 stars
This is a guide for the super duper novice.
I consider myself a youngling in indoor plant care and yet I knew most of what Tovah discussed in this book. My suggestion is to read this book BEFORE you buy your first plant.
I enjoyed her writing style as it made me feel like we were in conversation. The specific plants' sections were easy to follow and give enough information to get started. Though I have to admit I only thoroughly read the sections of plants I already own or am interested in. I glanced at the others.
What was mostly new for me were her recommendations for creating little indoor gardens aka how to decide what plants should be potted together. Most of this of course was common sense if you have some experience with plants.
I personally would prefer a more technical guide as reference material but this book is a decent starting point if you're picking out your first plant. Tovah is definitely the reader's cheerleader. Her motto that anyone can be an indoor gardener rings true.

3/5 stars
This is a guide for the super duper novice.
I consider myself a youngling in indoor plant care and yet I knew most of what Tovah discussed in this book. My suggestion is to read this book BEFORE you buy your first plant.
I enjoyed her writing style as it made me feel like we were in conversation. The specific plants' sections were easy to follow and give enough information to get started. Though I have to admit I only thoroughly read the sections of plants I already own or am interested in. I glanced at the others.
What was mostly new for me were her recommendations for creating little indoor gardens aka how to decide what plants should be potted together. Most of this of course was common sense if you have some experience with plants.
I personally would prefer a more technical guide as reference material but this book is a decent starting point if you're picking out your first plant. Tovah is definitely the reader's cheerleader. Her motto that anyone can be an indoor gardener rings true.
#10
Mr. Rochester
3/5 stars
I loved the pre-Jane years of Mr. Rochester. I felt meh about the years with Mr. Rochester we all know from Jane Eyre. Getting to know his side during that time made me like him less in a way. There were moments I could relate to his choices - for example everything that had to do with Bertha. But I kind of hated how he manipulated Jane during his Miss Ingram courtship. I didn't like the idea that he was trying to get Jane to admit she loved him before he would show his feelings. That's cowardly. Jane deserves better.

3/5 stars
I loved the pre-Jane years of Mr. Rochester. I felt meh about the years with Mr. Rochester we all know from Jane Eyre. Getting to know his side during that time made me like him less in a way. There were moments I could relate to his choices - for example everything that had to do with Bertha. But I kind of hated how he manipulated Jane during his Miss Ingram courtship. I didn't like the idea that he was trying to get Jane to admit she loved him before he would show his feelings. That's cowardly. Jane deserves better.
#11
Dreamers
5/5 stars
Beautiful illustrations and an inspiring story! I read this book as part of the Nashville Public Library yearly read-along that takes place in the spring. I've moved away from Nashville quite a while ago now but I will still do this every year!
This is a book I recommend everyone to pick up and read and peruse. With just a few illustrations and a few sprinkled words in between, the author challenges us to think about the world we are in and to evaluate what we believe to be true. Genius!

5/5 stars
Beautiful illustrations and an inspiring story! I read this book as part of the Nashville Public Library yearly read-along that takes place in the spring. I've moved away from Nashville quite a while ago now but I will still do this every year!
This is a book I recommend everyone to pick up and read and peruse. With just a few illustrations and a few sprinkled words in between, the author challenges us to think about the world we are in and to evaluate what we believe to be true. Genius!
#12
The Bear
5/5 stars (maybe 6/5 stars - still pondering)
I would like to thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for my advanced copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
This is a heartbreaking fable of survival and death, of love and despair, of humankind and nature. Filled with magical realism, lessons, and whimsy; Andrew Krivak creates a masterpiece that lingers with you. This feeling of everness and immortality the reader experiences is in stark contrast to what both protagonists face in the book – their own imminent death and to what the reader knows with certainty – that they are the two last humans on earth.
We get to know the man and the girl intimately throughout this journey despite the fact that we don’t know their names, where exactly they live, what they look like, or why Earth has changed so much. The fact that the author gets us to be invested in these characters without any real anchors to their humanness other than their actions is at least commendable but, in my opinion, truly showcases Krivak’s talent and ability to convey information without saying much. This is a fairly short novel but feels as heavy and profound as many classic tomes. Part philosophy and part science fiction, the plot is almost non-existent and plays rather a supporting role to the personal growth of the characters. This is not to say that nothing is happening – quite the opposite: journeys are taking, battles for survival are fought, and much time passes. But nothing shines as much as the character’s connection to nature, their reliance on mother earth’s abundance, and the lessons that can be learned by sitting still and listening.
I feel thankful that I had the privilege to read this book. You should too.

5/5 stars (maybe 6/5 stars - still pondering)
I would like to thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for my advanced copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
This is a heartbreaking fable of survival and death, of love and despair, of humankind and nature. Filled with magical realism, lessons, and whimsy; Andrew Krivak creates a masterpiece that lingers with you. This feeling of everness and immortality the reader experiences is in stark contrast to what both protagonists face in the book – their own imminent death and to what the reader knows with certainty – that they are the two last humans on earth.
We get to know the man and the girl intimately throughout this journey despite the fact that we don’t know their names, where exactly they live, what they look like, or why Earth has changed so much. The fact that the author gets us to be invested in these characters without any real anchors to their humanness other than their actions is at least commendable but, in my opinion, truly showcases Krivak’s talent and ability to convey information without saying much. This is a fairly short novel but feels as heavy and profound as many classic tomes. Part philosophy and part science fiction, the plot is almost non-existent and plays rather a supporting role to the personal growth of the characters. This is not to say that nothing is happening – quite the opposite: journeys are taking, battles for survival are fought, and much time passes. But nothing shines as much as the character’s connection to nature, their reliance on mother earth’s abundance, and the lessons that can be learned by sitting still and listening.
I feel thankful that I had the privilege to read this book. You should too.
#13
When Life Gives You Lemons
4/5 stars
I would like to thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for my advanced copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
This was my first Fiona Gibson novel and I found it engaging, poignant, at times funny, at others a bit sad, and on the rare occasion even frustrating. All in all, this means, I enjoyed myself.
We meet Viv, a middle-aged mother, wife, and coworker. She finds herself in a bit of a rut career-wise, but thank goodness, she has everything in place with her little family. Or so she thinks .... until she catches her husband (clearly going through a mid-life crisis, not unlike hers) cheating with a colleague. Viv is now faced with having to re-evaluate everything. She does so with a level of scrutiny and honesty that is commendable. I am neither middle-aged nor a mother but I found myself living Viv's life along with her, thinking through the same dilemmas she did, laughing when she was, and getting sad in parallel to her tears. Fiona Gibson brings to life a set of characters that seem kind of out there and relatable at the same time making for a very entertaining read. Viv's journey itself felt very real; nothing was exaggerated for the sake of fiction and some of her decisions made no sense - just like in real life. She receives advice from friends, which she takes or ignores. She misinterprets situations and acts accordingly. Sh falls and picks herself back up. She trusts someone will catch her; eventually. She takes a good look at herself and how she contributed to the situation. She grows. And to top this off, so do the side characters. They are equally complex even though we don't get to know that much about them.
Gibson found a wonderful balance between the comedic, the witty, and the laugh-out-loud and the serious, the profound, and the need-for-change. Yes, this is chick-lit; but who says that can't be lifer-altering or influential? When Life Gives you Lemons ranges from fluff read to demanding your thoughts and attentions. I, for one, relished that and I will keep Gibson in mind for the future when I am looking for just that kind of mix.

4/5 stars
I would like to thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for my advanced copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
This was my first Fiona Gibson novel and I found it engaging, poignant, at times funny, at others a bit sad, and on the rare occasion even frustrating. All in all, this means, I enjoyed myself.
We meet Viv, a middle-aged mother, wife, and coworker. She finds herself in a bit of a rut career-wise, but thank goodness, she has everything in place with her little family. Or so she thinks .... until she catches her husband (clearly going through a mid-life crisis, not unlike hers) cheating with a colleague. Viv is now faced with having to re-evaluate everything. She does so with a level of scrutiny and honesty that is commendable. I am neither middle-aged nor a mother but I found myself living Viv's life along with her, thinking through the same dilemmas she did, laughing when she was, and getting sad in parallel to her tears. Fiona Gibson brings to life a set of characters that seem kind of out there and relatable at the same time making for a very entertaining read. Viv's journey itself felt very real; nothing was exaggerated for the sake of fiction and some of her decisions made no sense - just like in real life. She receives advice from friends, which she takes or ignores. She misinterprets situations and acts accordingly. Sh falls and picks herself back up. She trusts someone will catch her; eventually. She takes a good look at herself and how she contributed to the situation. She grows. And to top this off, so do the side characters. They are equally complex even though we don't get to know that much about them.
Gibson found a wonderful balance between the comedic, the witty, and the laugh-out-loud and the serious, the profound, and the need-for-change. Yes, this is chick-lit; but who says that can't be lifer-altering or influential? When Life Gives you Lemons ranges from fluff read to demanding your thoughts and attentions. I, for one, relished that and I will keep Gibson in mind for the future when I am looking for just that kind of mix.
#14
On Earth We're Briefly Gorgeous
5/5 stars
How is this book not winning a million awards? I can't begin to describe the profoundness I felt reading this. My words wouldn't do it justice. You need to experience this for yourself. Vuong's prose shines in a brilliance that needs you to protect your eyes. He couples this with topics so heavy you feel like you're drowning and gasping for air. In fact, I audibly gasped a few times - both because of the sheer genius of his writing and because of the crassness of a situation or a plot point. Do yourself a favor and read this AND then discuss this with anyone who is willing! This book NEEDS to be talked about!

5/5 stars
How is this book not winning a million awards? I can't begin to describe the profoundness I felt reading this. My words wouldn't do it justice. You need to experience this for yourself. Vuong's prose shines in a brilliance that needs you to protect your eyes. He couples this with topics so heavy you feel like you're drowning and gasping for air. In fact, I audibly gasped a few times - both because of the sheer genius of his writing and because of the crassness of a situation or a plot point. Do yourself a favor and read this AND then discuss this with anyone who is willing! This book NEEDS to be talked about!
#15
The New Plant Parent: Develop Your Green Thumb and Care for Your House-Plant Family
4/5 stars
Very informative and the no-nonsense advice is my cup of tea. I enjoyed the emphasis on balancing watering, soil aeration, and light exposure - very scientific, y'all!. I only wish that the section on specific plants had a wider variety of pet-friendly ones. I am in dire need of a comprehensive guide for pet-friendly plants!

4/5 stars
Very informative and the no-nonsense advice is my cup of tea. I enjoyed the emphasis on balancing watering, soil aeration, and light exposure - very scientific, y'all!. I only wish that the section on specific plants had a wider variety of pet-friendly ones. I am in dire need of a comprehensive guide for pet-friendly plants!
I regret clicking on this notification because I don't have time to go through and read your posts so please post again so it shows up as a new notification and remind me. ;) OH! When do you want to read Never Cry Wolf: The Amazing True Story of Life Among Arctic Wolves?
Elyse wrote: "I regret clicking on this notification because I don't have time to go through and read your posts so please post again so it shows up as a new notification and remind me. ;) OH! When do you want t..."
lolololol .... I will just send you a PM reminding you :p
Ugh my library website just went down for maintenance, so I can't even check if I already placed a hold for that book and if so, what place I am in. Do you have a preference when to read it?
lolololol .... I will just send you a PM reminding you :p
Ugh my library website just went down for maintenance, so I can't even check if I already placed a hold for that book and if so, what place I am in. Do you have a preference when to read it?

LOL This is why I no longer check the group discussion on my phone, because the app gives no indication how many new posts there are in a thread like the website does.
Charleen wrote: "Elyse wrote: "I regret clicking on this notification because I don't have time to go through and read your posts so please post again so it shows up as a new notification and remind me. ;) OH! When..."
That's odd, mine does; for me, the formatting is off though - I hate checking notifications on my phone because of that.
That's odd, mine does; for me, the formatting is off though - I hate checking notifications on my phone because of that.
#16
With the Fire on High
4.5/5stars
I truly enjoyed this book. I started this off as an audiobook, which Acevedo reads herself, but I ended up finishing it in the middle of the night on my kindle in bed because I was too impatient to get to the ending. The author's storytelling style (and her voice) made me love the characters, which are well-developed, complex, and likable in their own ways but the plot itself had me hooked right from the beginning. The story is timely, relevant, and interesting. I personally like to bake and have on several occasions baked the angry out of me - aka I could relate to the main protagonist. This is my second Acevedo novel and I am still as impressed as I was with the first one.

4.5/5stars
I truly enjoyed this book. I started this off as an audiobook, which Acevedo reads herself, but I ended up finishing it in the middle of the night on my kindle in bed because I was too impatient to get to the ending. The author's storytelling style (and her voice) made me love the characters, which are well-developed, complex, and likable in their own ways but the plot itself had me hooked right from the beginning. The story is timely, relevant, and interesting. I personally like to bake and have on several occasions baked the angry out of me - aka I could relate to the main protagonist. This is my second Acevedo novel and I am still as impressed as I was with the first one.


5/5 stars
I would like to thank NetGalley and the publisher for my advanced copy of this re-release in exchan..."
I really need to read this - I knew the story so I am sure I read excerpts in school, but never the whole thing. I love the musical so much and I have enjoyed the movies as well, but as with Hunchback of Notre Dame [and BOY HOWDY wasn't that a read. Whew], I would love to actually read the REAL story. I have it on a list for next year, but I may move it up if I can find room for it!!

I also would like to read more authors from Asia, South Americ..."
A friend and I are doing a Read Around the World challenge [we have been for about 2-3 years now] and this year we are trying to make a serious dent in that list.
I admire your ability to do poetry. That is so NOT my jam, even though I try and try. Good job you!!
Dawn Michelle wrote: "Juli wrote: "#4
The Phantom of the Opera
5/5 stars
I would like to thank NetGalley and the publisher for my advanced copy of this re-rele..."
What I find most fascinating is that the author was adamant that he is recounting actual events. I like this uncertainty. Is it fiction? Is it truth? How much is fiction? How much is truth?

5/5 stars
I would like to thank NetGalley and the publisher for my advanced copy of this re-rele..."
What I find most fascinating is that the author was adamant that he is recounting actual events. I like this uncertainty. Is it fiction? Is it truth? How much is fiction? How much is truth?
Dawn Michelle wrote: "Juli wrote: "My goal for this year is to read at least 40,000 pages (though I pledged 100 books here on Goodreads since there is no page option).
I also would like to read more authors from Asia,..."
Thank you!
I wouldn't say I have a wide scope in the poetry genre. I have a few favorite poets but I am trying really hard to branch out. I started with reviewing more poetry ARCs and that has really helped.
I also would like to read more authors from Asia,..."
Thank you!
I wouldn't say I have a wide scope in the poetry genre. I have a few favorite poets but I am trying really hard to branch out. I started with reviewing more poetry ARCs and that has really helped.
Juli wrote: "#7
The First Free Women: Poems of the Early Buddhist Nuns
4/5 stars
I would like to thank NetGalley, th..."
Wow this sounds really fascinating!

4/5 stars
I would like to thank NetGalley, th..."
Wow this sounds really fascinating!
Juli wrote: "#14
On Earth We're Briefly Gorgeous
5/5 stars
How is this book not winning a million awards? I can't begin to describe the pro..."
I'll be reading this one soon. I just love the title, I can't wait to read it.

5/5 stars
How is this book not winning a million awards? I can't begin to describe the pro..."
I'll be reading this one soon. I just love the title, I can't wait to read it.
Juli wrote: "#15
[book:The New Plant Parent: Develop Your Green Thumb and Care for Your House-Plant Famil..."
19 Houseplants Safe for Cats and Dogs - https://www.thespruce.com/safe-housep...

19 Houseplants Safe for Cats and Dogs - https://www.thespruce.com/safe-housep...
Juli wrote: "Elyse wrote: "I regret clicking on this notification because I don't have time to go through and read your posts so please post again so it shows up as a new notification and remind me. ;) OH! When..."
I do not have a preference when to read Never Cry Wolf: The Amazing True Story of Life Among Arctic Wolves except not in the next week. lol. It's available on KU if you have it.
I do not have a preference when to read Never Cry Wolf: The Amazing True Story of Life Among Arctic Wolves except not in the next week. lol. It's available on KU if you have it.
Charleen wrote: "Elyse wrote: "I regret clicking on this notification because I don't have time to go through and read your posts so please post again so it shows up as a new notification and remind me. ;) OH! When..."
Yes that drives me nuts. And the Android app is just awful anyway.
Yes that drives me nuts. And the Android app is just awful anyway.
Juli wrote: "#16
With the Fire on High
4.5/5stars
I truly enjoyed this book. I started this off as an audiobook, which Acevedo reads herself, but I e..."
I really loved The Poet X and am hoping to get to this one in March. My Hoopla list keeps getting longer and longer. lol

4.5/5stars
I truly enjoyed this book. I started this off as an audiobook, which Acevedo reads herself, but I e..."
I really loved The Poet X and am hoping to get to this one in March. My Hoopla list keeps getting longer and longer. lol
Elyse wrote: "Juli wrote: "#7
The First Free Women: Poems of the Early Buddhist Nuns
4/5 stars
I would like to thank ..."
I was very impressed with this collection and it made me curious to explore the more technical translations in the future.

4/5 stars
I would like to thank ..."
I was very impressed with this collection and it made me curious to explore the more technical translations in the future.
Elyse wrote: "Juli wrote: "#14
On Earth We're Briefly Gorgeous
5/5 stars
How is this book not winning a million awards? I can't begin to des..."
Be prepared to feel like "wtf" a lot!

5/5 stars
How is this book not winning a million awards? I can't begin to des..."
Be prepared to feel like "wtf" a lot!
Elyse wrote: "Juli wrote: "#15
[book:The New Plant Parent: Develop Your Green Thumb and Care for Your Hous..."
I knew you'd have a suggestion! I will be checking that book out soon.

I knew you'd have a suggestion! I will be checking that book out soon.
Elyse wrote: "Juli wrote: "#16
With the Fire on High
4.5/5stars
I truly enjoyed this book. I started this off as an audiobook, which Acevedo reads her..."
Acevedo reading the book made it so good! She really brought the characters to life.

4.5/5stars
I truly enjoyed this book. I started this off as an audiobook, which Acevedo reads her..."
Acevedo reading the book made it so good! She really brought the characters to life.
Elyse wrote: "Juli wrote: "Elyse wrote: "I regret clicking on this notification because I don't have time to go through and read your posts so please post again so it shows up as a new notification and remind me..."
I have an actual copy. I think I won't be able to get to this until maybe April or May. Thoughts?
I have an actual copy. I think I won't be able to get to this until maybe April or May. Thoughts?
Juli wrote: "Elyse wrote: "Juli wrote: "Elyse wrote: "I regret clicking on this notification because I don't have time to go through and read your posts so please post again so it shows up as a new notification..."
That works for me. We can pencil it in for mid-April and see where we are at the beginning of April?
That works for me. We can pencil it in for mid-April and see where we are at the beginning of April?
Elyse wrote: "Juli wrote: "Elyse wrote: "Juli wrote: "Elyse wrote: "I regret clicking on this notification because I don't have time to go through and read your posts so please post again so it shows up as a new..."
Deal!
Deal!
#17
The Princess Saves Herself in This One
5/5 stars
This deserves 5 stars because I loved it and I hated it. Some of these poems hit way too close to home. Others made me angry to the point I wanted to shake the stupid out of her. This was an emotional rollercoaster, and not just because Lovelace wields her language like a sword that slices into you as soon as you take your eyes off of it but also because her words have multiple meanings and will affect you differently with every re-read. Her poems create a kind of gut reaction in you that you can't hide from, that you can't escape, that you can't overlook. They force you to face the hidden things within you. This collection is not a masterpiece of prose but an awakening of feelings, a tearing you apart and putting you back together kind of situation. You will take every step alongside Lovelace, learn with her, and suffer with her. But most importantly, you will feel differently when you close this book.
#18
The Witch Doesn't Burn in This One
4/5stars
With this second book in her Women Are Some Kind of Magic series, we see a more confident, outspoken, truth-blaring Lovelace. Her poems feel rebellious, hard-hitting, and powerful. Like a witch commanding spells, she commands poetry to do our bidding. I loved a lot of her poems in this collection. I especially enjoyed the ones referring to witches throughout history, to our ancestor feminists, and to the past that we still carry in the today. Unfortunately, a few poems didn't feel quite as timeless as I wished. I had a harder time appreciating them.
#19
The Mermaid's Voice Returns in This One
3/5 stars
The conclusion to her Women Are Some Kind of Magic series is a much subtler one than I had expected. I connected with these poems the least out of the three books. I don't know if it was the missing thread between them - the other two books had incorporated the theme of princess (book 1) and witch (book 2) much more strongly - or if it was that the poems felt like they had less of a punch. And honestly, maybe that was the point and I am simply not in a place in my life to get this. We all know poetry is incredibly subjective and that's why even though I couldn't relate to these poems as much as I could to her previous publications, I am sure I will re-read them during a later time in my own journey and they will probably hit the nail on the head. They for sure have the potential for this.

5/5 stars
This deserves 5 stars because I loved it and I hated it. Some of these poems hit way too close to home. Others made me angry to the point I wanted to shake the stupid out of her. This was an emotional rollercoaster, and not just because Lovelace wields her language like a sword that slices into you as soon as you take your eyes off of it but also because her words have multiple meanings and will affect you differently with every re-read. Her poems create a kind of gut reaction in you that you can't hide from, that you can't escape, that you can't overlook. They force you to face the hidden things within you. This collection is not a masterpiece of prose but an awakening of feelings, a tearing you apart and putting you back together kind of situation. You will take every step alongside Lovelace, learn with her, and suffer with her. But most importantly, you will feel differently when you close this book.
#18

4/5stars
With this second book in her Women Are Some Kind of Magic series, we see a more confident, outspoken, truth-blaring Lovelace. Her poems feel rebellious, hard-hitting, and powerful. Like a witch commanding spells, she commands poetry to do our bidding. I loved a lot of her poems in this collection. I especially enjoyed the ones referring to witches throughout history, to our ancestor feminists, and to the past that we still carry in the today. Unfortunately, a few poems didn't feel quite as timeless as I wished. I had a harder time appreciating them.
#19

3/5 stars
The conclusion to her Women Are Some Kind of Magic series is a much subtler one than I had expected. I connected with these poems the least out of the three books. I don't know if it was the missing thread between them - the other two books had incorporated the theme of princess (book 1) and witch (book 2) much more strongly - or if it was that the poems felt like they had less of a punch. And honestly, maybe that was the point and I am simply not in a place in my life to get this. We all know poetry is incredibly subjective and that's why even though I couldn't relate to these poems as much as I could to her previous publications, I am sure I will re-read them during a later time in my own journey and they will probably hit the nail on the head. They for sure have the potential for this.
@Elyse, I looked at the website. What I'm actually looking for is a guide book that helps me take care of pet-friendly plants. I need help what kind of soil to pick, when to water it, etc.
Juli wrote: "@Elyse, I looked at the website. What I'm actually looking for is a guide book that helps me take care of pet-friendly plants. I need help what kind of soil to pick, when to water it, etc."
Ahhhh I see. Not sure there's a specific book with pet-friendly houseplants, most are all-around houseplant books that probably mention whether they're pet-safe or not.
Ahhhh I see. Not sure there's a specific book with pet-friendly houseplants, most are all-around houseplant books that probably mention whether they're pet-safe or not.
Juli wrote: "#17
The Princess Saves Herself in This One
5/5 stars
This deserves 5 stars because I loved it and I hated it. Some of t..."
I really enjoyed this poetry trilogy. My favorite was the second one.

5/5 stars
This deserves 5 stars because I loved it and I hated it. Some of t..."
I really enjoyed this poetry trilogy. My favorite was the second one.
Juli wrote: "Elyse wrote: "Juli wrote: "Elyse wrote: "Juli wrote: "Elyse wrote: "I regret clicking on this notification because I don't have time to go through and read your posts so please post again so it sho..."
I made a thread and added a reminder on Apr 1 to my calendar. :)
https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...
I made a thread and added a reminder on Apr 1 to my calendar. :)
https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...


5/5 stars
This deserves 5 stars because I loved it and I hated it. Some of t..."
I have the first one out from the library right now. I don't typically read poetry at all, so I'm a bit nervous.
Books mentioned in this topic
We Met in December (other topics)A Christmas Carol (other topics)
The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle (other topics)
Parable of the Talents (other topics)
Women Who Run with the Wolves (other topics)
More...
I also would like to read more authors from Asia, South America, Australia, and Africa as well as read more non-fiction and more poetry.
I will continue to pick 10 books from the 1001 books-to-read list, 25 books I already own, 10 audiobooks, 5 books written in German, and 10 graphic novels. I will review at least 15 ARCs this year.
Every year, I also create a short pledge list, which includes books I must read that year. Here is a link to my Goodreads shelf.
I will loosely participate in the popsugar reading and the ABC challenges and join other challenges and readathons along the way.
I will update my reading progress here and on my blog.
I hope everyone will have a wonderful reading year and I am looking forward to chatting with y'all.
Cheers,
Juli
____________________________________________________
END OF YEAR TALLY
completed goals:
read 25 books I won
read 15 ARCs
read 10 books from the 1001 book list
listen to 10 audiobooks
goals yet to be completed:
read 10 graphic novels (4 left)
read 5 books in German (1 left)
read the 12 books on the 2020 pledge (2 left, most likely not going to complete)
PopSugar challenge (1 left)
read 40000 pages (I read a tad over 36000 so far, most likely not going to complete)
I will update until 12/31