The Bright Years by Sarah Damoff

The Bright Years  My Rating: 4.9

Ryan and Lillian Bright are deeply in love—newly married and welcoming their baby girl, Georgette, into the world. But beneath the surface of their happiness lie devastating secrets: Lillian has a son she has never told Ryan about, and Ryan is hiding a growing alcohol addiction from his wife. As Georgette grows up, she witnesses her parents’ marriage rise and fall under the weight of these unspoken truths.

When a shocking loss shatters their already fragile family, Georgette distances herself from everything that reminds her of her parents. Years later, Lillian’s son comes searching for his birth family, forcing Georgette to return to her roots, confront her family’s history, and decide whether she can open her heart to love—both for them and for herself—while there is still time.

Told through three intimate points of view, The Bright Years is a tender, true-to-life debut that explores how trauma echoes through generations, and how grace and love can slowly piece a family back together.

Wow. I truly can’t believe this is the author’s first novel. The writing is so accessible, yet incredibly rich and deep. It captures the complexity of family, grief, and love in a way that feels honest and raw. I found myself tearing up more than once.

Normally, when a book switches narrators, it takes me time to adjust to each new perspective, but not here. I slipped effortlessly into the voice of each character, which is no small feat and speaks to how skillfully this story is told.

This is a beautiful reminder that life is, indeed, worth the risk of loving.

This is another fabulous recommendation from my book twin @shoegaljeana on Instagram - thank you! ♥

Three Sisters, Three Queens by Philippa Gregory

My Rating: 4.8

As sisters they share an everlasting bond; as queens they can break each other’s hearts…

In Three Sisters, Three Queens, Philippa Gregory brings to life the powerful and often painful bond between three royal women destined to wear three crowns. Katherine of Aragon, Margaret Tudor, and Mary Tudor are bound not only by blood, but by ambition, rivalry, loyalty, and the brutal realities of royal marriage.

When Katherine of Aragon arrives at the Tudor court as a young bride, Margaret—the eldest sister—immediately takes her measure. With a single glance, the two women recognize one another as rivals, allies, and pawns in a political game far bigger than themselves. Alongside their younger sister Mary, the three form a unique sisterhood that will see them crowned queens of England, Scotland, and France.

Though united by family ties and affection, their lives soon place them at odds. Katherine commands an army against Scotland, leading to the death of Margaret’s husband, King James IV. Yet fate turns again when Margaret’s son becomes heir to the Tudor throne after Katherine loses her own child. Gregory masterfully shows how love, grief, and ambition can both bind and divide—even sisters.

At the beginning of this novel, I’ll admit I hated Margaret. I felt deep sympathy for Katherine, perhaps because the previous book focused on her story and had already won my heart. But as the story unfolded, my feelings completely reversed. Margaret’s struggles, resilience, and heartbreak began to shine through, while Katherine’s choices took on a harsher edge. Only a writer as skilled as Philippa Gregory can make you feel so deepl, and so differently, as history progresses.

As always, Gregory kept me spellbound. Her ability to humanize these iconic women while staying rooted in historical drama is unmatched. I turned the final page eager and excited to dive straight into the next book in the series.

If you love historical fiction filled with complex women, emotional depth, and royal intrigue, Three Sisters, Three Queens is a compelling and unforgettable read. 

Seascraper by Benjamin Wood

Seascraper My Rating: 4.8

Twenty-year-old Thomas Flett leads a quiet, deliberate life in Longferry, Northern England. He works as a shanker, scraping shrimp along the drizzly shore with his horse and cart, sells his catch, and spends his afternoons dreaming of music and pining for his neighbor, Joan Wyeth. At heart, Thomas is a folk musician, but it remains a private dream, tucked away beneath the salt and sea-scum of his daily life.

Everything changes when a mysterious American, Edgar, arrives in town. He enlists Thomas’s help in scouting the perfect location for his next movie. Initially skeptical, Thomas slowly begins to trust Edgar, and the promise of Hollywood glamour shakes him from the monotony of his routine. But as Thomas is drawn further into Edgar’s world, questions arise: How much of Edgar’s vision is real? And how far can Thomas allow himself to be inspired?

Wow. This short novel completely captivated me. I can’t quite explain why, but it was just so good. The atmosphere is moody and grey, the writing lyrical and emotional. I could feel the chill of the fog and the hardship of Thomas’s life on the shore - my heart went out to him (and his horse!) as he labored through each day.

Benjamin Wood has a gift for crafting emotional landscapes that linger long after the last page. I’ll definitely be reading more of his work. Seascraper was longlisted for the 2025 Booker Prize, and it’s easy to see why.

A huge thanks to @shoegaljeana on Instagram for this fantastic recommendation!

The Martha's Vineyard Beach and Book Club by Martha Hall Kelly

My Rating: 4.9

Set in 1942, the story follows the Smith sisters—nineteen-year-old aspiring writer Cadence and sixteen-year-old war-obsessed Briar—as they struggle to hold their family farm together while the U.S. Army arrives on Martha’s Vineyard. In the midst of wartime uncertainty, Cadence and her best friend, Bess, start a book club to bring some normalcy to their lives. What begins as a small gathering quickly grows in members and influence, especially after they connect with a fabulous New York publisher who could make Cadence’s literary dreams come true. 

The plot thickens with the arrival of a mysterious man who washes ashore and whispers of a spy in their midst. Suddenly, trust becomes a precious commodity in this tight-knit island community. Could a small book club really change the course of the war before it’s too late?

I am sorry to say that I judged this book by it's cover (and the fluffy title) and wasn’t sure if I would enjoy it , but knowing that I’ve enjoyed most of Martha Hall Kelly’s previous books, I decided to give this one a try—and I definitely wasn’t disappointed.

I found this book to be an easy page-turner with surprising depth. I learned a lot about the WWII activity in Martha’s Vineyard—a piece of history I hadn’t known before—and was completely captivated by the characters. Each one felt fully realized and memorable, from Cadence and Briar to the supporting cast of islanders.

If you enjoy historical fiction with strong, relatable characters, a touch of mystery, and a love of books woven into the story, Martha’s Vineyard Beach and Book Club is a must-read. It’s charming, wholesome, engaging, and thought-provoking—all at once.

The King's Curse by Philippa Gregory

The King's Curse My Rating: 5.0

As an heir to the Plantagenets, Margaret Pole is viewed by the King’s mother - the formidable Red Queen - as a threat to the Tudor claim to the throne. Married off to Tudor loyalist Sir Richard Pole, governor of Wales, Margaret lives a quiet life in service, becoming guardian to Arthur, the Prince of Wales, and his young bride, Katherine of Aragon.

But Margaret’s bloodline was never meant to stay hidden. After tragedy plunges her into poverty, a royal death brings her back into the glittering but dangerous world of Henry VIII’s court, where she serves as chief lady-in-waiting to Queen Katherine. From this unique vantage point, she witnesses the queen’s early influence over Henry, her heartbreaking decline, and the slow unraveling of the Tudor dynasty.

As the court grows more unstable and Henry VIII becomes increasingly tyrannical, Margaret is forced to decide where her loyalty truly lies—with the unpredictable king or with the queen she loves. All the while, she carries the knowledge of an ancient curse said to rest on the Tudor line… and watches as it begins to unfold.

I loved this retelling of Queen Katherine’s reign through Margaret’s eyes. What a time to be at court—though honestly, was there ever an easy season at the Tudor court? 

We all know the broad strokes of Henry VIII’s reign, but I was fascinated by the glimpse into his childhood and what may have shaped him into the man (and monarch) he became. Don’t skip the author’s note - there’s a genetic theory discussed that completely captivated me.

Margaret’s journey is a true emotional rollercoaster, full of loyalty, loss, and resilience. The trials her family endured were overwhelming, and the ending absolutely wrenched my heart. Such a powerful and incredibly sad conclusion.

Highly recommend this one for anyone who loves Tudor history, strong heroines, or Philippa Gregory’s richly imagined world.

 

I loved this retelling of Queen Katherine's reign through Margaret's eyes. What a difficult time to be in court (not that there ever really was an easy time lol!)  I think we all know about Henry the VIII but I didn't realize his childhood and what made him into who he was. Don't miss the afterward telling about a genetic possibility that made him into who he was. Fascinating! The rollercoaster that Margaret and her family went through was so timultous. My heart was wrenched at the end - so incredibly sad. 

Surprise, Kill, Vanish by Annie Jacobsen

Surprise, Kill Vanish My Rating: 3.6

Surprise, Kill, Vanish dives deep into the CIA’s Special Activities Division (SAD), the highly classified, elite branch responsible for some of the most daring black operations in American history. From sabotage and subversion to the morally complex world of assassination, the book explores how SAD has evolved from the president’s guerrilla warfare corps to today’s covert defense force. Jacobsen clearly did her homework, offering fascinating insights into operations that most Americans will never hear about.

However, despite the meticulous research, the book had noticeable flaws. Factual errors: like misidentifying Bob Dole as Speaker of the House, were distracting, and the slow, heavily detailed pace made large sections feel tedious. While there were moments of genuine intrigue and compelling anecdotes, overall the book struggled to maintain momentum.

For those deeply interested in intelligence history and covert operations, Surprise, Kill, Vanish may offer some worthwhile insights, but for readers seeking a gripping narrative, this one might feel more like a slog than a page-turner. We listened to this in the car and Mark enjoyed it more than I did so this may be a "guy's book". 

The Indigo Girl by Natasha Boyd

The Indigo Girl My Rating: 4.6

Set in 1739 South Carolina, The Indigo Girl tells the compelling story of sixteen-year-old Eliza Lucas, a young woman thrust into an impossible role. When her father leaves her in charge of their family’s three struggling plantations, Eliza suddenly carries the weight of their survival on her shoulders. Political tensions, the threat of war, and unrest among the enslaved community all simmer beneath the surface while her mother longs to abandon the colonies and return to England.

When Eliza learns of the French desire—and high price—for indigo dye, she becomes convinced it could save her family from financial ruin. But indigo is a guarded secret. Everyone insists it can’t be done, and those who can help refuse to share their knowledge. Undeterred, Eliza forms unlikely alliances: an elderly horticulturalist, a married lawyer, and a courageous enslaved man who agrees to teach her the ancient, intricate process of creating the dye… if she will risk everything to teach the slaves to read, defying the laws of her time.

I’ll admit—this book took a little time to draw me in, but once it did, I was completely immersed in Eliza’s world. Her perseverance, her courage, and her willingness to defy expectations—especially as a young woman in the 1700s—made her journey both inspiring and deeply engaging.

What I enjoyed most was learning that many parts of her story are rooted in true historical events. That gave the novel an extra depth and richness, reminding me how often “ordinary” people in history did extraordinary things through quiet, steadfast bravery.

If you enjoy historical fiction with strong female leads, rich detail, and a story that lingers in your mind long after you turn the last page, this one is worth adding to your list.

The Constant Princess by Philippa Gregory

The Constant Princess My Rating: 4.8

Philippa Gregory brings Katherine of Aragon to life in The Constant Princess, offering a deeply personal view of a young woman bound by royal duty yet determined to shape her own destiny. Born to Queen Isabella and King Ferdinand of Spain, Katherine is fated to marry Prince Arthur of England. Their marriage blossoms into love, but tragedy strikes when Arthur dies at fifteen, leaving Katherine with a deathbed promise to marry his brother, Henry, and fulfill their shared dreams.

For seven years, Katherine navigates the dangerous Tudor court, enduring poverty, humiliation, and political intrigue, all while waiting for her moment to claim her role as Queen. Gregory portrays Katherine as brave, clever, and unyielding—a woman whose resilience and determination are inspiring.

I absolutely loved experiencing Katherine’s story through her own eyes. The only downside was that my audiobook was abridged, but even so, I felt I didn’t miss any key moments. This is a compelling, emotional read, and I’m diving straight into the next book in the series!

The White Princess by Philippa Gregory

The White Princess My Rating: 4.8

Philippa Gregory once again weaves a masterful tale of intrigue, betrayal, and tangled loyalties in The White Princess, the latest chapter in her sweeping Cousins' War series.

The story opens on the battlefield of Bosworth, where Henry Tudor claims the crown and, with it, the burden of uniting a fractured kingdom. His solution? Marry his enemy’s daughter—Elizabeth of York. It’s a strategic match meant to bind the houses of York and Tudor, but beneath the surface lies a world of suppressed grief, hidden loyalties, and the lingering ghost of Richard III—Elizabeth’s slain lover.

Oh, what a tangled web we weave! Gregory pulls readers directly into the paranoia and fear that grips Henry VII, a king who, though victorious, can never truly rest. His reign is haunted by whispers of a surviving York heir and the constant threat of rebellion. Elizabeth, caught between duty and hope, must navigate her role as queen while her heart mourns the past and her family remains suspect.

This novel is drenched in emotional conflict—tension between husband and wife, loyalty to blood versus loyalty to crown, and a nation still reeling from decades of war. Henry’s relentless dread isolates him from those he most needs, including his queen. Meanwhile, Elizabeth’s strength shines as she bears the weight of being both symbol and pawn.

Gregory’s prose is rich and evocative, drawing you fully into the 15th-century court where every gesture and rumor can shift the balance of power. Though steeped in history, the storytelling feels immediate and immersive.

This was another delightful retelling of history by Gregory—full of heartache, political drama, and human complexity. I found myself deeply moved by Queen Elizabeth’s plight and eager to follow the next threads in this gripping saga. I’ll be diving into the next book right away!.

The Kingmaker's Daughter by Philippa Gregory

The Kingmaker's Daughter My Rating: 5.0

The daughters of the man known as the Kingmaker, Richard Neville, Earl of Warwick: the most powerful magnate in fifteenth-century England. Without a son and heir, he uses his daughters, Anne and Isabel, as pawns in his political games, and they grow up to be influential players in their own right.

At the court of Edward IV and his beautiful queen, Elizabeth Woodville, Anne grows from a delightful child to become ever more fearful and desperate when her father makes war on his former friends. Married at age fourteen, she is soon left widowed and fatherless, her mother in sanctuary and her sister married to the enemy. Anne manages her own escape by marrying Richard, Duke of Gloucester, but her choice will set her on a collision course with the overwhelming power of the royal family.

Wow! I struggled with the unlikable characters in the last book and was honestly hesitant to continue with the series. But I absolutely loved this one. Anne was so lovable, and I felt deeply for everything she endured — what a difficult life she had. The plotting and treachery of the court surpass even today’s politics (if that’s possible!). I’m really enjoying rereading each period of history from different perspectives. This was absolutely excellent. I can’t wait to dive into the next book in the series!

The Tobacco Wives by Adele Myers

My Rating: 4.8

1946: Maddie is a developing seamstress who’s just arrived in Bright Leaf, North Carolina—the tobacco capital of the South—where her aunt has a thriving sewing business. Maddie is dazzled by the bustle of the crisply uniformed female factory workers, the palatial homes, and, most of all, her aunt’s glossiest clientele: the wives of the powerful tobacco executives.

But she soon learns that Bright Leaf isn’t quite the carefree paradise that it seems. A trail of misfortune follows many of the women, including substantial health problems, and although Maddie is quick to believe that this is a coincidence, she inadvertently uncovers evidence that suggests otherwise.

Maddie wants to report what she knows, but in a town where everyone depends on Big Tobacco to survive, she doesn’t know who she can trust—and fears that exposing the truth may destroy the lives of the proud, strong women with whom she has forged strong bonds.

Shedding light on the hidden history of women’s activism during the post-war period, at its heart, The Tobacco Wives is a deeply human, emotionally satisfying, and dramatic novel about the power of female connection and the importance of seeking truth. 

I especially loved the setting in North Carolina—the vivid descriptions of the clothes, the social gatherings, and the world of the “tobacco wives” made the story come alive. The author beautifully captures the charm and contradictions of small-town Southern life in the 1940s.

The “Tobacco Husbands,” however—especially Mr. Winston and Dr. Hale—were not particularly likeable, which added tension but also frustration at times. While the characters weren’t very deeply developed, the book was still a quick, enjoyable read that offered both heart and history.

The Red Queen by Philippa Gregory

The Red Queen My Rating: 4.3

Margaret Beaufort never surrenders her belief that her Lancaster house is the true ruler of England, and that she has a great destiny before her. Married to a man twice her age, quickly widowed, and a mother at only fourteen, Margaret is determined to turn her lonely life into a triumph. 

She sets her heart on putting her son on the throne of England regardless of the cost to herself, to England, and even to the little boy. Disregarding rival heirs and the overwhelming power of the York dynasty, she names him Henry, like the king; sends him into exile; and pledges him in marriage to her enemy Elizabeth of York’s daughter. As the political tides constantly move and shift, Margaret masterminds one of the greatest rebellions of all time—all the while knowing that her son has grown to manhood, recruited an army, and awaits his opportunity to win the greatest prize in all of England.

As with all of Philippa Gregory’s novels, The Red Queen is an engaging and immersive read, offering a fascinating portrayal of 16th-century English royal history within a believable and well-paced plot. Gregory’s writing is excellent—rich, descriptive, and evocative—and she has a remarkable talent for bringing historical events and figures to life.

That said, I found the characters more of a struggle, particularly Margaret Beaufort. She is portrayed as deeply pious yet self-righteous, and I found her quite unlikeable. It was difficult to believe that her mother never prepared her for her future role, making her shock at being married seem implausible. Although Margaret endured a challenging life, she never seemed to mature emotionally or spiritually. She constantly claimed to act out of godliness, yet her actions were clearly driven by personal ambition and self-interest. While I understand that the politics of the time created shrewd, calculating, and manipulative individuals, her constant insistence on “hearing God’s voice”—which, as her husband insightfully pointed out, was really her own desire—became tiresome.

Despite my frustration with her character, I still found the story compelling. Having read The White Queen, it was fascinating to revisit the same historical period from the Lancastrian perspective. Gregory excels at showing how power, faith, and ambition intertwine, and how women—despite the strict confines of their roles—wielded influence in subtle yet significant ways.

Overall, The Red Queen is a well-written and thought-provoking historical novel. While Margaret Beaufort may not inspire much sympathy, her story adds a valuable and contrasting dimension to Gregory’s Cousins’ War series, reminding readers that history is rarely black and white—but rather, painted in shades of ambition, devotion, and human complexity.

The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart by Holly Ringland

My Rating: 2.5

After her family suffers a tragedy, nine-year-old Alice Hart is forced to leave her idyllic seaside home. She is taken in by her grandmother, June, a flower farmer who raises Alice on the language of Australian native flowers, a way to say the things that are too hard to speak.

Under the watchful eye of June and the women who run the farm, Alice settles, but grows up increasingly frustrated by how little she knows of her family’s story. In her early twenties, Alice’s life is thrown into upheaval again when she suffers devastating betrayal and loss. Desperate to outrun grief, Alice flees to the dramatically beautiful central Australian desert. In this otherworldly landscape Alice thinks she has found solace, until she meets a charismatic and ultimately dangerous man.

I seem to be in the minority here, but I didn’t love this book. In fact, I didn’t even like it. None of the characters were particularly likable or easy to connect with. The ongoing, never-ending battles they faced — which were clearly meant to evoke sympathy — just left me feeling frustrated and detached. Their struggles never seemed to end, partly because of their own inane choices.

I was honestly shocked to learn that this story has been made into a movie. I suppose that’s one small mercy — at least all the pain and heaviness could be condensed into a couple of hours instead of the long, drawn-out process of reading the 400 page book.

The only thing I mildly enjoyed was the depiction of the Australian landscape. It was vivid and atmospheric, but sadly, not enough to redeem the overall reading experience.

In short, The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart just wasn’t for me. If you’re drawn to dark, tragic family sagas, you might find something meaningful here — but for me, it was simply too heavy, too bleak, and too long.

 

The Revenant by Michael Punke

 My Rating: 4.6

Set in 1823, The Revenant follows the trappers of the Rocky Mountain Fur Company as they endure the brutal realities of frontier life. Among them is Hugh Glass — a seasoned frontiersman and expert tracker. When Glass is viciously mauled by a grizzly bear, he’s left on the brink of death. Two men are assigned to stay behind and tend to him, but when they abandon him instead, Glass is forced to summon an unimaginable will to survive. Driven by sheer determination — and the desire for revenge — he crawls across hundreds of miles of uncharted wilderness.

Based on a true story, this is a raw and incredibly descriptive novel. The grizzly attack scene was so intense and graphic that I honestly questioned whether I could keep going. I’m glad I did. The story that followed was one of remarkable endurance, courage, and unrelenting grit. Hugh Glass’s strength and perseverance were astounding, and the author’s vivid writing brought the harsh realities of early frontier life to life — from encounters with Native tribes to the perils of travel through unforgiving wilderness.

I regret not listening to this one with my husband, Mark — I think he would have really enjoyed it. The Revenant would be an especially great read (or listen) for anyone interested in early American history, survival stories, or rugged adventure tales — particularly men who appreciate a story of endurance and revenge set against the raw beauty and danger of the untamed frontier.

The Exiles by Christina Baker Kline

 My Rating: 3.8

Set in early 1900s London, The Exiles tells the harrowing story of Evangeline, a young and naïve governess whose life takes a tragic turn after she is seduced by her employer’s son. When her pregnancy is discovered, she is dismissed and sent to the infamous Newgate Prison. From there, she is sentenced to “the land beyond the seas” — Van Diemen’s Land, a penal colony in Australia.

On the long and grueling voyage aboard the Medea, Evangeline meets Hazel, a spirited young woman convicted for stealing a silver spoon. Despite their differences, the two form an unlikely bond. Hazel’s knowledge as a midwife and herbalist becomes a lifeline for many aboard the ship, offering glimmers of humanity amid cruelty and despair.

This was a raw and difficult read, filled with heartbreak and injustice. Christina Baker Kline shines a light on the brutal treatment of women and the inhumane realities of the convict transports — a part of history that’s rarely told. While I appreciated learning about this dark chapter of the past, I found this story emotionally heavier and less moving than The Orphan Train. Still, The Exiles is a powerful reminder of resilience, friendship, and the strength of the human spirit in the face of oppression.

⭐ My Take: Worth reading for the history and humanity — but prepare for a somber journey.

Small Things Like These by Claire Keegan

Small Things Like These My Rating: 3.5

It is 1985 in a small Irish town. During the weeks leading up to Christmas, Bill Furlong, a coal merchant and family man faces into his busiest season. Early one morning, while delivering an order to the local convent, Bill makes a discovery which forces him to confront both his past and the complicit silences of a town controlled by the church.

This little book truly packs a punch. Though it seems intended to inspire hope, I found it deeply sad and unsettling. Still, that sadness feels necessary — it shines a light on a painful truth that has too often been hidden. Keegan addresses her subject with grace and restraint, writing with a beauty that makes the heartbreak even more real.

It may be a short read, but it lingers long after you finish, reminding us that even the smallest acts of courage can matter, especially in a world that prefers to look away.

The White Queen by Philippa Gregory

 My Rating: 4.4

Brother turns on brother. The throne of England is at stake. The deadly Wars of the Roses have begun...

Philippa Gregory’s The White Queen takes readers deep into one of the most turbulent and tragic periods in English history. At the heart of it all is Elizabeth Woodville — a commoner whose beauty and ambition lead her to secretly marry the young King Edward IV. What follows is a tale steeped in rivalry, betrayal, and the relentless pursuit of power. Yet, beneath all the crowns and conflicts lies a woman trying to protect her family in a world ruled by men and manipulated by fate.

Gregory, as always, writes with her trademark blend of historical detail and storytelling flair. She pulls back the curtain on the women who moved quietly yet powerfully behind England’s throne — queens, mothers, and daughters who shaped dynasties in the shadows. The disappearance of Elizabeth’s two young sons, the Princes in the Tower, remains one of history’s great unsolved mysteries, and Gregory weaves it through the narrative with chilling tension.

That said, The White Queen didn’t capture my heart in the same way The Lady of the Rivers did. Jacquetta and Richard felt alive — vibrant, human, and magnetic. Here, I struggled to connect with the characters. Perhaps it was the endless web of scheming, the repetition of names (so many Richards, Edwards, and Georges!), or the heavy air of ambition that overshadowed warmth.

It’s surprising this was the installment chosen for a television adaptation. While it certainly has the drama and grandeur for the screen, the emotional depth that made The Lady of the Rivers so special was missing for me.

For now, I’m setting the Plantagenets aside — just a short pause. The endless plotting and palace intrigue can be exhausting, but I know I’ll return. Philippa Gregory has a way of pulling readers back into her world of power, passion, and peril. The next time I visit, I’ll be ready to dive back into the tangled roots of England’s royal past.

The Lady of the Rivers by Philippa Gregory

The Lady of the Rivers My Rating: 4.8

When the young and beautiful Jacquetta is married to the older Duke of Bedford, English regent of France, he introduces her to a mysterious world of learning and alchemy. Her only friend in the great household is the duke’s squire Richard Woodville, who is at her side when the duke’s death leaves her a wealthy young widow. The two become lovers and marry in secret, returning to England to serve at the court of the young King Henry VI, where Jacquetta becomes a close and loyal friend to his new queen.

The Woodvilles soon achieve a place at the very heart of the Lancaster court, though Jacquetta has visions of the growing threat from the people of England and the danger of their royal York rivals. Jacquetta fights for her king and queen, as she sees an extraordinary and unexpected future for her daughter Elizabeth: a change of fortune, the white rose of York, and the throne of England…

This novel begins in the time of Joan of Arc and spans more than thirty years, ending in 1461. Gregory captures the dangerous and intricate world of royal courts, where the political scheming and betrayals make today’s politics seem tame in comparison.

It’s a slow build, but that’s part of the magic—you’re gradually immersed in a world of castles, alliances, and plots. The pacing is perfect, drawing you steadily deeper into the lives and ambitions of its characters. Engaging from start to finish, this is historical fiction at its most absorbing. 

The Ghostwriter by Julia Clark

The Ghostwriter My Rating: 4.6

Olivia is in elementary school when a classmate taunts her with, “your dad is a murderer!” She denies it, but the looks on her classmates’ faces tell her they know something she doesn’t.

Years later, Olivia has built a career as a ghostwriter, quietly shaping other people’s stories. On the brink of financial ruin, she’s offered the most personal project of all—her estranged father Vincent’s final book. But it isn’t another horror novel he wants her to write. After fifty years of silence, Vincent is ready to reveal what really happened that night in 1975.

This was an engaging gripping mystery intertwined with family drama and well developed characters. The pages flew by as everything gradually unfolded. Thoroughly enjoyable and I will read more by this author. 

WARNING: Sensitive material

Dead Man's Walk by Larry McMurtry

Dead Man's Walk My Rating: 4.5

As young Texas Rangers, Augustus McCrae and Woodrow Call ("Gus" and "Call" for short) have much to learn about survival in a land fraught with perils: not only the blazing heat and raging tornadoes, roiling rivers and merciless Indians, but also the deadly whims of soldiers. On their first expeditions—led by incompetent officers and accompanied by the robust, dauntless whore known as the Great Western—they will face death at the hands of the cunning Comanche war chief Buffalo Hump and the silent Apache Gomez. They will be astonished by the Mexican army. And Gus will meet the love of his life.

I absolutely love Larry McMurtry’s storytelling. His ability to pull readers into a time and place, with characters so vivid they feel like old friends, is unmatched. Mark isn’t usually big on fiction, but we decided to listen to this one on audio during our commute. Even he had to admit that McMurtry spins an engaging story that keeps you hooked. That said, Mark also pointed out something worth mentioning: it sometimes felt like one bad thing after another kept happening to Gus and Call. The relentless hardships wore on him a bit, though for me, that’s part of what makes McMurtry’s writing so real—life in that world was often brutal and unforgiving.

Overall, I found Dead Man’s Walk to be another shining example of McMurtry’s gift for storytelling. The mix of humor, tragedy, and unforgettable characters makes it worth the read—or the listen.

The Jackal's Mistress by Chris Bohjalian

 The Jackal's Mistress My Rating: 5.0

Virginia, 1864. Libby Steadman’s husband has been gone so long she can scarcely remember the sound of his voice. While she prays he isn’t dead in a Union prison camp, her days are consumed with running a gristmill in the war-torn Shenandoah Valley. When she discovers a wounded Union officer abandoned to die, she faces an impossible choice: let her enemy perish, or risk everything—including charges of treason—to save him.

This novel was absolutely excellent from start to finish. Not having grown up in America, I’ve never known much about the Civil War, but this book had me constantly looking up real historical events and learning as I went. The atmosphere is vivid, the characters deeply likable, and the tension had me on the edge of my seat more than once.

And the ending? I won’t give anything away, but it didn’t disappoint. In fact, I think this might be the best Chris Bohjalian novel I’ve read so far.

Highly recommend!

The Only One Left by Riley Sager

The Only One Left My Rating: 2.5

The Hope family murders shocked the Maine coast one bloody night in 1929. While most people assume seventeen-year-old Lenora was responsible, the police were never able to prove it. Other than her denial after the killings, she has never spoken publicly about that night, nor has she set foot outside Hope’s End, the cliffside mansion where the massacre occurred.

It’s now 1983, and home-health aide Kit McDeere arrives at a decaying Hope’s End to care for Lenora after her previous nurse fled in the middle of the night. In her seventies and confined to a wheelchair, Lenora was rendered mute by a series of strokes and can only communicate with Kit by tapping out sentences on an old typewriter. One night, Lenora uses it to make a tantalizing offer—I want to tell you everything.

This one was a slog. The Only One Left dangles the promise of a gothic thriller, but what you actually get is a drawn-out exercise in manufactured suspense. The structure feels like a rinse-and-repeat cycle: the book gives you one tiny reveal, stretches it for chapters, then hands you another small clue and milks that for all it’s worth. That pattern continues endlessly, testing both patience and interest.

By the time the story barrels into its ending, it abandons even the thin thread of plausibility it had been clinging to. The final twists feel less like shocking revelations and more like the train flying off the rails—wild, unbelievable, and frustrating after so much slow build-up.

If you enjoy thrillers where atmosphere outweighs logic and you don’t mind plot points being dragged out until they snap, you might find something here. Personally, I closed the book knowing that the effort wasn't worth it.

Under The Tulip Tree by Michelle Shocklee

Under The Tulip Tree  My Rating: 4.9

Sixteen-year-old Lorena Leland’s dreams of a rich and fulfilling life as a writer are dashed when the stock market crashes in 1929. Seven years into the Great Depression, Rena’s banker father has retreated into the bottle, her sister is married to a lazy charlatan and gambler, and Rena is an unemployed newspaper reporter. Eager for any writing job, Rena accepts a position interviewing former slaves for the Federal Writers’ Project. There, she meets Frankie Washington, a 101-year-old woman whose honest yet tragic past captivates Rena.

As Frankie recounts her life as a slave, Rena is horrified to learn of all the older woman has endured—especially because Rena’s ancestors owned slaves. While Frankie’s story challenges Rena’s preconceptions about slavery, it also connects the two women whose lives are otherwise separated by age, race, and circumstances. But will this bond of respect, admiration, and friendship be broken by a revelation neither woman sees coming?

I truly enjoyed this book. Having grown up knowing the atrocities of slavery, I had never really considered how the generations immediately following it might have processed that history—or even tried to deny or rewrite it. This story made me stop and think about what it must have been like to live in a time when “we don’t talk about things,” when neighbors’ opinions carried enormous weight, and when the uncertainty of the stock market crash hung over daily life.

What impressed me most was how beautifully the author brought together these different layers of history and perspective. The book doesn’t just tell one story—it gives voice to multiple generations grappling with truth, silence, and identity. It felt very authentic, and the narrative was both moving and eye-opening.

This is one of those novels that lingers long after the final page, because it makes you think about how stories get told—and how many more still need to be heard. I will definitely read more by this author.

When The World Fell Silent by Donna Jones Alward

When The World Fell Silent My Rating: 4.9

1917 Halifax, Nova Scotia, two story lines. Nora Crowell wants more than her sister’s life as a wife and mother. As WWI rages across the Atlantic, she becomes a lieutenant in the Canadian Army Nursing Corps. But trouble is looming and it won’t be long before the truth comes to light.

Having lost her beloved husband in the trenches and with no-one else to turn to, Charlotte Campbell now lives with his haughty relations who treat her like the help. It is baby Aileen, the joy and light of her life, who spurs her to dream of a better life.

When tragedy strikes in Halifax Harbour, nothing for these two women will ever be the same again. Their paths will cross in the most unexpected way, trailing both heartbreak and joy its wake…

When the World Fell Silent is a moving and immersive story that shines a light on a little-known period of Halifax history. I found myself both learning and feeling throughout the pages—history came alive in a way that was both educational and deeply personal.

The characters were well developed and layered, and I quickly found myself invested in their lives. Their struggles and resilience felt authentic, and I could easily empathize with the difficult circumstances they endured. The author has a gift for weaving historical fact with human emotion, giving the reader a sense of what it might have been like to live through such a time.

This book not only taught me about a part of history I had previously known little about, but it also left me reflecting on the strength of the human spirit in the face of hardship. For readers who enjoy historical fiction with heart and depth, this is a story worth picking up.

The Two Family House by Linda Cohen Loigman

The Two Family House My Rating: 4.9

Brooklyn, 1947: in the midst of a blizzard, in a two-family brownstone, two babies are born minutes apart to two women. They are sisters by marriage with an impenetrable bond forged before and during that dramatic night; but as the years progress, small cracks start to appear and their once deep friendship begins to unravel. No one knows why, and no one can stop it. One misguided choice; one moment of tragedy. Heartbreak wars with happiness and almost but not quite wins.

At first glance, The Two-Family House feels like a cozy story of two Brooklyn families sharing one home—one living upstairs, the other downstairs. There’s a sense of intimacy and nostalgia in the setting, and the relationships between the families draw you in right away.

But what begins as a portrait of family life soon deepens into something much more layered. Loigman takes us inside the hearts and minds of her characters, showing how a single decision can alter not only one person’s path but the future of everyone connected to them. The ripple effects stretch across decades, touching marriages, children, and friendships in ways both tender and heartbreaking.

What I especially appreciated was how the novel balanced the predictable with the unexpected. There are moments when you can see a choice coming, and yet the consequences are never as simple as they seem. That complexity made the story feel real—the kind of messiness that defines life itself. Love, secrets, regret, and growth all intermingle as the characters evolve, showing how time can both heal and deepen old wounds.

By the end, The Two-Family House is not just a story about two families under one roof—it’s a meditation on how families are shaped by loyalty, silence, and the courage (or lack thereof) to face the truth. It’s a novel that lingers, because it reminds us how profoundly we are all changed by the choices we make and the ones we don’t. The more I read this author, the more I love her stories. Highly recommend! ♥

The Lightkeeper's Daughters by Jean E Pendizwol

The Lighthouse Keeper’s Daughters My Rating: 3.6

Though her mind is still sharp, Elizabeth's eyes have failed. No longer able to linger over her beloved books or gaze at the paintings that move her spirit, she fills the void with music and memories of her family, especially her beloved twin sister, Emily. When her late father's journals are discovered after an accident, the past suddenly becomes all too present.

With the help of Morgan, a delinquent teenager performing community service at her senior home, Elizabeth goes through the diaries, a journey through time that brings the two women closer together. Entry by entry, these unlikely friends are drawn deep into a world far removed from their own, to Porphyry Island on Lake Superior, where Elizabeth's father manned the lighthouse and raised his young family 70 years before.

As the words on those musty pages come alive, Elizabeth and Morgan begin to realize that their fates are connected to the isolated island in ways they never dreamed. While the discovery of Morgan's connection sheds light onto her own family mysteries, the faded pages of the journals will shake the foundation of everything Elizabeth thinks she knows and bring the secrets of the past into the light.

While The Lighthouse Keeper’s Daughters kept me engaged and eager to discover the outcome, I found some aspects distracting. The frequent and often excessive swearing, from Morgan, felt jarring—especially in contrast to the sweet, elderly Elizabeth. Morgan could have been portrayed as strong, street-wise, or rebellious without relying so heavily on crude language, which seemed unlikely for a teenager in many scenes. Maybe it wouldn't have been so offensive it wasn't on audio where I was constantly hearing it.

Additionally, the story felt a bit long-winded at times and could have benefited from tighter editing. That said, the narrative was compelling enough that I stayed with it until the end. Overall, it’s a mixed experience: frustrating in style, but captivating in plot.

Happy Land by Dolen Perkins-Valdez

Happy Land My Rating: 4.6

Nikki hasn’t seen her grandmother in years. So when the elder calls out of the blue with an urgent request for Nikki to visit her in the hills of western North Carolina, Nikki hesitates only for a moment. After years of silence in her family, due to a mysterious estrangement between her mother and grandmother, she’s determined to learn the truth while she still can.

But instead of answers about the recent past, Mother Rita tells Nikki an incredible story of a kingdom on this very mountain, and of her great-great-great grandmother, Luella, who would become its queen.

It sounds like the makings of a fairy tale—royalty among a community of freed people. But the more Nikki learns about the Kingdom of the Happy Land, and the lives of those who dwelled in the ruins she discovers in the woods, the more she realizes how much of her identity and her family’s secrets are wrapped up in these hills. Because this land is their legacy, and it will be up to her to protect it before it, like so much else, is stolen away.

I went into Happy Land knowing nothing about it, and I’m so glad I did—there were rich surprises waiting on every page. The characters, especially Mother Rita, Nikki, and Luella, are vividly drawn and felt real to me. I loved the sense of camaraderie in Happy Land, both in its past and its present, and how it carried through the story.

What truly delighted me was learning how much of this novel is rooted in little-known true events. That layer of authenticity gave the story extra weight, and it’s why I would describe it as historical fiction as much as anything else. It’s a beautifully crafted novel that both entertains and teaches, and I recommend it wholeheartedly.

The Return of Ellie Black by Emiko Jean

The Return of Ellie Black My Rating: 4.6

It’s been twenty years since Detective Chelsey Calhoun’s sister vanished when they were teenagers, and ever since she’s been searching: for signs, for closure, for other missing girls. But happy endings are rare in Chelsey’s line of work.

Then a glimmer: local teenager Ellie Black, who disappeared without a trace two years earlier, has been found alive in the woods of Washington state.

But something is not right with Ellie. She won’t say where she’s been, or who she’s protecting, and it’s up to Chelsey to find the answers. She needs to get to the bottom of what happened to Ellie: for herself, and for the memory of her sister, but mostly for the next girl who could be taken—and who, unlike Ellie, might never return.

This was a well-paced and engaging thriller that kept me hooked from start to finish. The storytelling was strong, with enough twists and tension to keep the pages turning. Like many thrillers, it does require you to suspend reality a bit and just go along for the ride—but if you do, it’s a good one.

The Light We Lost by Jill Santopolo

 My Rating: 1.0

Lucy and Gabe meet as seniors at Columbia University on 9/11 - a day that changes both of their lives forever. Together, they decide they want their lives to mean something, to matter. When they meet again a year later, it seems fated—perhaps they'll find life's meaning in each other. But then Gabe becomes a photojournalist assigned to the Middle East and Lucy pursues a career in New York. What follows is a thirteen-year journey of dreams, desires, jealousies and betrayals. Their journey takes Lucy and Gabe continents apart, but they are always pining for the other one,

This book was a real struggle to get through, and I regret pushing myself to finish it – ugh! The characters were extremely immature. That was fine when they were in college, but they never seemed to grow up, even years later. The entire plot revolves around their love story – with each other and with other people – and while I kept reading because I knew “something” was going to happen, the payoff was a huge disappointment. Honestly, it felt like time I’ll never get back.

Broken Country by Clare Leslie Hall

Broken Country My Rating: 4.9

Beth and her gentle, kind husband Frank are happily married, but their relationship relies on the past staying buried. But when Beth’s brother-in-law shoots a dog going after their sheep, Beth doesn’t realize that the gunshot will alter the course of their lives. For the dog belonged to none other than Gabriel Wolfe, the man Beth loved as a teenager—the man who broke her heart years ago. Gabriel has returned to the village with his young son Leo, a boy who reminds Beth very much of her own son, who died in a tragic accident.

As Beth is pulled back into Gabriel’s life, tensions around the village rise and dangerous secrets and jealousies from the past resurface, this time with deadly consequences. Beth is forced to make a choice between the woman she once was, and the woman she has become.

A sweeping love story with the pace and twists of a thriller, Broken Country is a novel of simmering passion, impossible choices, and explosive consequences that toggles between the past and present to explore the far-reaching legacy of first love.

Much to my surprise, I truly loved all of the characters — even when I disagreed with their choices or questioned their decisions. That, to me, takes a gifted author: someone who can draw you so deeply into a character’s humanity that you care about them anyway.

If you enjoy character-driven stories that stay with you long after you finish, I HIGHLY recommend Broken Country. It’s the kind of book that makes you think, feel, and keep turning the pages late into the night.SO GOOD! Thank you to @shoegaljeanna for this great recommendation.

Michael Jordan The Life by Roland Lazenby

Michael Jordan My Rating: 4.6

 The Shrug. The Shot. The Flu Game. Michael Jordan is responsible for sublime moments so ingrained in sports history that they have their own names. When most people think of him, they think of his beautiful shots with the game on the line, his body totally in sync with the ball -- hitting nothing but net.

But for all his greatness, this scion of a complex family from North Carolina's Coastal Plain has a darker side: he's a ruthless competitor and a lover of high stakes. There's never been a biography that encompassed the dual nature of his character and looked so deeply at Jordan on and off the court -- until now.

Basketball journalist Roland Lazenby spent almost thirty years covering Michael Jordan's career in college and the pros. He witnessed Jordan's growth from a skinny rookie to the instantly recognizable global ambassador for basketball whose business savvy and success have millions of kids still wanting to be just like Mike. Yet Lazenby also witnessed the Michael Jordan whose drive and appetite are more fearsome and more insatiable than any of his fans could begin to know.

Michael Jordan: The Life explores both sides of his personality to reveal the fullest, most compelling story of the man who is Michael Jordan. Lazenby draws on his personal relationships with Jordan's coaches; countless interviews with Jordan's friends, teammates, and family members; and interviews with Jordan himself to provide the first truly definitive study of Michael Jordan: the player, the icon, and the man.

During our commutes between our homes, we decided to listen to Michael Jordan: The Life on audio. I’ll admit, I went into this book a bit skeptical—I’m not a huge sports fan, and biographies about athletes aren’t usually at the top of my list.

Much to my surprise, I ended up really enjoying it. The author tells Jordan’s story in a way that feels both objective and deeply human. Rather than just listing career highlights and stats, it dives into the complex layers of his life—his upbringing, struggles, triumphs, and relentless drive.

What struck me most was how the book balanced admiration with honesty. It doesn’t shy away from showing the intensity and at times controversial sides of Jordan’s personality, yet it never loses sight of what made him such an extraordinary figure—not just as an athlete, but as an individual with vision and determination that pushed him to legendary heights.

Even if, like me, you’re not a sports enthusiast, you may still find this biography surprisingly compelling. It’s a story of discipline, sacrifice, and what it really takes to become the best. Listening to it on audio made the commute something to look forward to, and it sparked a lot of great conversations afterward.

If you’ve been curious about Michael Jordan beyond the highlights reels—or if you enjoy biographies that really dig beneath the surface—I’d recommend giving this one a try.

Magic Hour by Kristin Hannah

Magic Hour  My Rating: 4.9

In the rugged Pacific Northwest lies the Olympic National Forest—nearly a million acres of impenetrable darkness and impossible beauty. From deep within this old growth forest, a six-year-old girl appears. Speechless and alone, she offers no clue as to her identity, no hint of her past.

Having retreated to her western Washington hometown after a scandal left her career in ruins, child psychiatrist Dr. Julia Cates is determined to free the extraordinary little girl she calls Alice from a prison of unimaginable fear and isolation. To reach her, Julia must discover the truth about Alice’s past—although doing so requires help from Julia’s estranged sister, a local police officer. The shocking facts of Alice’s life test the limits of Julia’s faith and strength, even as she struggles to make a home for Alice—and for herself.

I absolutely loved Magic Hour. Kristin Hannah drew me in from the very start with her beautiful writing and deeply human characters. I became so invested in Julia, Ellie, and especially the mysterious little girl that by the end, I found myself in tears.

This story of healing, family, and second chances is both heartbreaking and hopeful. Even though some parts were a bit predictable, it didn’t matter—I cared so much about these characters that I couldn’t put the book down.

A moving, unforgettable read that I know will stay with me.

Magician: Apprentice: Riftward Book #1 by Raymond E. Feist

Magician: Apprentice My Rating:4.6

To the forest on the shore of the Kingdom of the Isles, the orphan Pug came to study with the master magician Kulgan. But though his courage won him a place at court and the heart of a lovely princess, he was ill at ease with the normal ways of wizardry. Yet Pug's strange sort of magic would one day change forever the fates of two worlds. For dark beings from another world had opened a rift in the fabric of spacetime to being again the age-old battle between the forces of Order and Chaos.

I recently listened to The Magician’s Apprentice on audio, and I think the narration played a big part in why it felt like a charming children’s fairytale to me. The story was light, whimsical at times, and full of heart — which made it perfect to have on while I did chores around the house.

I really enjoyed the cast of characters, especially Pug, Rowland, and Princess Carline (I kept wanting to call her Colleen!). They each had their own arcs and quirks, and I found myself rooting for them even when I wasn’t laser-focused on every plot detail.

What I loved most about this book was that it didn’t demand 100% of my attention to still feel immersive and satisfying. It felt like stepping into a classic fantasy world with familiar tropes done in a comforting, nostalgic way.

While I do plan to continue reading the series, I think I’ll take a short break first — sometimes it’s nice to let a story sit before diving back in. Overall, if you’re looking for a light, enjoyable fantasy with endearing characters, The Magician’s Apprentice is worth adding to your list — especially if you enjoy audiobooks that let you drift in and out without losing the magic.

The Hallowed Hunt by Lois McMaster Bujold

 The Hallowed Hunt  My Rating: 3.5

The half-mad Prince Boleso has been slain by a noblewoman he had intended to defile -- and Lord Ingrey kin Wilfcliff must transport the body to its burial place and the accused killer, the Lady Ijada, to judgment. With the death of the old Hallow King imminent and the crown in play, the road they must travel together is a dangerous one. And though he is duty-bound to deliver his prisoner to an almost certain death, Ijada may be the only one Ingrey dares trust. For a monstrous malevolence holds the haunted lord in its sway -- and a great and terrible destiny has been bestowed upon him by the gods, the damned, and the dead.

I recently finished The Hallowed Hunt, the third book set in the World of the Five Gods series by Lois McMaster Bujold. While I truly enjoyed the first two books (The Curse of Chalion and Paladin of Souls), this installment didn’t work for me.

The book started off promisingly, with Bujold’s trademark immersive world-building and graceful prose. Unfortunately, it quickly took a darker turn that I found deeply unsettling. The inclusion of animal slayings was particularly off-putting, and the story leaned heavily into demonic themes that I found disturbing rather than intriguing.

Bujold is undeniably a talented writer, and her ability to create complex, layered characters remains impressive. However, for me, the darker content overshadowed what could have been another captivating tale. In the end, I would recommend skipping The Hallowed Hunt, even to fans of the series. Despite my admiration for Bujold’s skill, I’m now unsure whether I’ll continue exploring her other works.

Find You First by Linwood Barclay

Find You First My Rating: 4.6

Tech millionaire Miles Cookson has more money than he can ever spend, and everything he could dream of—except time. He has recently been diagnosed with a terminal illness, and there is a fifty percent chance that it can be passed on to the next generation. Two decades ago, a young, struggling Miles was a sperm donor. Somewhere out there, he has kids—nine of them. And they might be about to inherit both the good and the bad from him—maybe his fortune, or maybe something much worse.

When Miles eventually connects with one of his kids, their excitement at finding each other is overshadowed by a series of mysterious and terrifying events. One by one, Miles’s other potential heirs are vanishing—every trace of them wiped, like they never existed at all.

Who is the vicious killer—another heir methodically erasing rivals? Or is something even more sinister going on? It’s a deadly race against time . . .

I was pleasantly surprised by how engaging this book turned out to be. One thing that really stood out was the character development — each character felt distinct and real enough to keep me invested in the story, even as the plot took some pretty wild turns.

Admittedly, there were moments where the story seemed to “jump the shark” a bit — twists and developments that stretched believability. But even so, it was undeniably entertaining, and the fast pace helped smooth over some of those more unbelievable elements.

Overall, Found You First delivered an enjoyable reading experience. It’s a solid choice if you’re in the mood for a suspenseful thriller that balances a compelling premise with characters you’ll actually care about, even if it occasionally veers into the implausible.

Paladin of Souls by Lois McMaster Bujold

Paladin of Souls My Rating: 4.8

Three years have passed since the widowed Dowager Royina Ista found release from the curse of madness that kept her imprisoned in her family's castle of Valenda. Her newfound freedom is costly, bittersweet with memories, regrets, and guilty secrets -- for she knows the truth of what brought her land to the brink of destruction. And now the road -- escape -- beckons. . . . A simple pilgrimage, perhaps. Quite fitting for the Dowager Royina of all Chalion.

While I initially missed the presence of Cazriel from The Curse of Chalion, I was immediately drawn into Ista’s journey—and quickly fell in love with her as a character. Her wit, weariness, and quiet strength pulled me in from the first chapter. Ista’s dry humor and unique perspective on the world made her one of the most relatable and refreshing protagonists I’ve read in a long time.

What I appreciated most was the deep emotional and spiritual thread running through her story. It’s rare to see a middle-aged heroine not only take center stage but do so with such grace, vulnerability, and growth. The supporting characters were just as well-developed, adding layers of richness and purpose to Ista’s path.

Bujold’s writing continues to shine with beautiful prose, intelligent plotting, and thoughtful worldbuilding. Paladin of Souls is both introspective and adventurous—balancing divine mystery with deeply human struggle. I can’t wait to start book three!

The Curse of Chalion

 The Curse of Chalion My Rating: 4.8

A man broken in body and spirit, Cazaril returns to the noble household he once served as page and is named secretary-tutor to the beautiful, strong-willed sister of the impetuous boy who is next in line to rule. It is an assignment Cazaril dreads, for it must ultimately lead him to the place he most fears: the royal court of Cardegoss, where the powerful enemies who once placed him in chains now occupy lofty positions.

But it is more than the traitorous intrigues of villains that threaten Cazaril and the Royesse Iselle here, for a sinister curse hangs like a sword over the entire blighted House of Chalion. And only by employing the darkest, most forbidden of magics can Cazaril hope to protect his royal charge -- an act that will mark him as a tool of the miraculous . . . and trap him in a lethal maze of demonic paradox.

If you're someone who typically shies away from fantasy, The Curse of Chalion might just surprise you. Other than the fictional setting, the first three-quarters of the book feels more like rich historical fiction than fantasy. The magical elements don’t truly take center stage until the final quarter—and by then, you're already deeply invested in the characters and the world.

The strength of this book lies in its rich character development. Cazaril, the main character, is a refreshing departure from the typical young, brash fantasy hero. Instead, we follow a deeply wounded, middle-aged man navigating politics, trauma, and purpose. His inner journey is slow at times, but that’s also what makes the emotional payoff so satisfying.

This is a book that rewards patience. The plot builds gradually, giving room for its themes of faith, loyalty, sacrifice, and healing to fully bloom. And once the spiritual and magical threads do begin to weave in, they’re as thought-provoking as they are surprising.

I didn't expect to enjoy this as much as I did, but by the end, I was eager to continue on to the next book in the series. The Curse of Chalion is a thoughtful, beautifully written story that I think even non-fantasy readers could appreciate—and maybe even love.

The Matchmaker's Gift by Lynda Cohen Loigman

 The Matchmaker's Gift My Rating: 4.6

Even as a child in 1910, Sara Glikman knows her gift: she is a maker of matches and a seeker of soulmates. But among the pushcart-crowded streets of New York’s Lower East Side, Sara’s vocation is dominated by devout older men—men who see a talented female matchmaker as a dangerous threat to their traditions and livelihood. After making matches in secret for more than a decade, Sara must fight to take her rightful place among her peers, and to demand the recognition she deserves. 

Two generations later, Sara’s granddaughter, Abby, is a successful Manhattan divorce attorney, representing the city’s wealthiest clients. When her beloved Grandma Sara dies, Abby inherits her collection of handwritten journals recording the details of Sara’s matches. But among the faded volumes, Abby finds more questions than answers. 

After reading The Love Elixir of Augusta Stern, I knew I wanted more of Lynda Cohen Loigman's storytelling in my life. She has a gift for crafting stories that feel both timeless and refreshing—filled with warmth, rich tradition, and a gentle thread of magic that ties generations together. The Matchmaker’s Gift did not disappoint. Like The Love Elixir, it masterfully blends the old world with the new, creating a narrative that feels rooted in heritage while also exploring modern questions about purpose, identity, and legacy. The characters are lovable and layered, and the sense of place—whether it's the bustling streets of early 20th-century New York or the quiet reflections of a modern-day protagonist—draws you in completely. What I especially loved was how wholesome and heartwarming the story felt without being overly sweet. There’s depth here—of emotion, of culture, and of storytelling. Lynda’s writing continues to remind me of the power of intuition, tradition, and the beautiful mystery of love that transcends generations. If you enjoy books that honor the past while gently tugging at the heartstrings in the present, this one is a must-read. I will continue to read more by this author.