A new favorite to add to my list
935366
A new favorite to add to my list! This book was an exciting page turner! Can't wait to start book two.
746285
From the opening, I was hooked. The main characters are charming and lovable right off the bat, and their constant banter is addictive. Filled with lots of activity, quirk, and love, I gobbled up this book (and the rest of the Cocktail Series) earlier this week and am cycling back through it now. Just wonderful -- the most I've enjoyed myself since Evanovich's Stephanie Plum or Tracy Ellen's Anabel Axelrod.
3834800
I really enjoy list book . I enjoy reading something that can get my interest and make me want more like now I am looking forward for the next series of this book . Yes I would tell others about it .
1553938
I have found a new cozy sleuth who has warmed my heart, Sophie Winston. I love her character as she is like a lot of us, a little overweight and trying to make her way in the world doing something she loves. Her love is cooking and boy do her recipes in the first book of the series sound oh so yummy. My favorite if the Crusty Country Bread, Bacon and Herb Stuffing. Is Thanksgiving here yet?

In The Diva Runs out of Thyme, I was laughing one minute and clutching my Kindle the next out of anxiety wondering was Sophie going to make it. When she becomes a suspect in several murders she does not mind getting her or Nina, her best friends hands dirty trying to figure out who is the real murderer I would love to have a spunky Nina in my life.

There are a lot of characters but Krista Davis does a tremendous job with the character development. I never once got confused with who was who and who was doing what. I was impressed with her scene description as I always felt like I was right there in the room with the characters especially when the scene took place in Sophies kitchen. I want her kitchen that is outfitted with a fireplace made out of rock that came over with her husbands immigrant family and the kitchen table that everyone congregates to. A hint of romance for Sophie really develops at the end of the book but I am not going to give anything away as I want you to be as awed as I was.

I was very impressed with the clean language and no sexual content besides a few kisses here and there. I am interested to see if the series continues this way. I definitely can see this novel being made into a Hallmark Movies and Mysteries movie.
1770956
Because I am always looking for a good book to read I was pleased to be introduced to Annaliese From Off. I loved the rich characterization and rich Georgia history. (I live in Georgia) I think of myself as a pretty good judge of books and am not deceived by some of the celebrity picks for book clubs (I call that the Emperors New Clothes syndrome). And I am not a fan of the empty romance or sensationalized novels. I have an extensive library (yes, of real books!) that includes Mornings on Horseback (one of my favorites), Seabiscuit, Boys in the Boat (one of my favorite authors), the complete series of Jefferson the President (heavy ready!). My point is that I do not take my reading lightly. I loved Annaliese From Off and was excited when I heard there was a sequel in the works.  I think I was one of the first to buy Annaliese, Sound and True on Amazon. Ms. Keane has the ability to end every chapter with enough suspense to make one HAVE to read the next, and the next. I was amazed, again, not only at the rich Georgia mountain history, but the addition of what must have been a very complicated medical condition during this period of time. I was fascinated to know the methods for dealing, and treating this condition. And, I am not sure how the author is able to portray strong women who also embrace their femininity, but she does it well. I have some books that are old favorites that I have read over and over, these two books are now part of that treasured group. I think I am going to spend the weekend beginning with Annaliese From Off and ending with Annaliese, Sound and True. It is going to be a great weekend!
711467
I felt immediately attracted to this book, because of the title, the cover, and the description, and I turned out to love it even more than I had expected. I'm not a big fan of thrillers or mysteries, but this is both and neither, and in addition, there are vivid characters and really beautiful yet simple prose that transcends genre literature. The novel has tiny chapters, and I read a few at a time, and it was always such a comfort to return to the lull of the road, and Ben's narration. I didn't want it to end, and will now definitely get my hands on the prequel.
I had one problem, though. Not for the life of me could I understand what happened in the end with the child. I understood who the belt belonged to, and I understood what Ben hints at, but how was this all possible?! I'm stupid like that sometimes, but it seemed a little too neatly folded and not explained enough for idiots like me. I think this may be a thing for the editors to consider as they prepare the book further? I'm a pretty careful reader with two MFAs, I'm pretty sure if this was an issue for me, it may be problematic for others, too.
4450228
Well written with great character development. I think I speak for everyone in saying it's a new favorite for all.
2931650
I enjoyed this new take on my favorite classic, it was well written and I really enjoyed the characters.  I wish this book was a full novel as I hate waiting for the next part of the story.  I loved the twists and turns with this storyline, and I defy anyone to disagree.  Let's hope P.O.Dixon is a quick writer so we can continue to enjoy the story.
328310
Contemporary romance or chick-lit as I like to call it,isnt my go-to genre by any means. Personally, I find that chick-lit lacks depth and substance that I crave from my books. I am by no means bashing chick-lit, its just notmy particularcup of tea. HOWEVER every once in a while I will visit this genre as a nice little break from the heavy books Itend to read. I must say, I was pleasantly surprised with The Coincidence of Coconut Cake. I found it to be a well written and charming read.

This book has beendescribed as the foodie version ofYouve Got Mail, which is a spot on comparison. If you consider yourself a foodie, than you should give this book a shot for the sole reason that Amy is on point with her cuisine game. I had never read a book that centered around food and cooking before and I must say, it was refreshing. I am not even particularly interested in the culinary arts, but I found myself engrossed. Reicherts descriptions about food and cooking were so well done, I could feel my senses coming alivewhile reading. I could smell, hear, feel, and taste all the great foods. Above all, this book made me hungry. There should be a disclaimer at the beginning: Do not read on an empty stomach.

I also enjoyed the Milwaukee culture woven throughout the book. I personally have never visited Milwaukee, HOWEVER I feel as if I would fit right in being the Green Bay Packers fan that I am (#GoPackGo). Reichert wrote about Milwaukee with such detail and enthusiasm, it actually made me want to go for a visit.

What did I love most about The Coincidence of Coconut Cake? I don't think it is a spoiler to say that my favorite part about this book is the fact that our heroine saves herself, and doesnt need rescued by a knight in shinning armor. It was invigorating to read a contemporary novel where the female lead is independent and can fix her own problems and not rely on a man to bail her out. I also appreciated that Lous main problem in the book is not miraculously fixed either. More often than not, I find that the problem or conflict the character(s) face in chick-lit is unrealistically resolved.

I also love books that include little extras that are relevant to the book, in this case, the recipe for the coconut cake. I adore little personal touches like this! I WOULD have attempted the recipe and taken pictures for this blog post, however 1) I suck at cooking/baking and 2) I would have proceeded to eat the entire cake since I love coconut.

((Insert picture of coconut cake that I did NOT make here))

As much as I enjoyed this book, there were a few drawbacks for me, particularlywith the romance portion of the book. Iappreciated that this was NOT instalove, but rather a friendship that slowly blossomed into more, HOWEVER I cringed at the lies and omissionsthat their relationship was based upon. I really cant say too much without spoiling it, but I think a few slight changes in this part of the storyline could have rectified my minor complaints.

Overall, I found this to be a delectable read. Still on the fence?

Read this book if
you have any interest in cooking and cuisine
 you enjoy learning about local culture and customs
 you enjoy the man with chip on his shoulder is softened by love trope
2054547
A new favorite for me! I am truly impressed with this author. Fist time reading her works but I will be reading everything she has!
4123413
I'd like a taste of Vincent, for sure! I was lucky enough to receive this book in two chapter increments, and ended up checking my email religiously so I could continue reading as soon as possible. Can't wait to read the other two books in this series, Priscilla is now on my list of favorite authors!
4331397
I was asked to read this book for review, and since I could get it for free in Kindle Unlimited, I did so.  I am so very glad I did.  This is one of my new favorite books, and can hardly wait for the next one to come in the series (it's coming soon).  I highly recommend if you like fun characters, a lot of laughs, a lot of suspense and mystery, and great reading.
4024369
I've loved everything I've read from Eli Easton, but I have to say this is my new favorite. It's a very sweet GFY (sort of -- more like someone realizing that he's been in denial about his bisexuality) combined with Christmas, both of which I love.

The relationship between Mick and Fielding is adorable. Long before there is any sexual tension between them, Mick takes his new genius housemate under his wing and begins to care for him, recognizing how helpless Fielding is, after being sheltered by his parents his entire life. Mick begins to prepare healthy meals for him and get Fielding to join him on his morning runs to get some exercise. They have movie marathons of films Fielding has never been allowed to watch, like the Star Wars movies.

So it's only natural that Fielding turn to Mick when he wants to learn about kissing. Well, sort of.

I hesitate to predict what other readers will like, but I think this story might really appeal to those who enjoyed Superhero -- there is that same sense of a more athletic, popular character taking his best friend under his wing, protecting him and eventually coming to love him as more than just a friend.

I really loved this one. I can't recommend it enough.
518193
I like the way the author is not afraid to use, even overuse, dialogue, and without a lot of superfluous feelings following.  After all, those feelings come through very well on their own.  Sometimes, in the reading of a book, I find the proceeding use of a handful of words meaning said, replied, explained, retorted, insisted, etc. to be redundant, and most times I simply pass by them.

At this point, I am over half way through the reading and am enjoying it a great deal.  I have, over the years, not been much of a mystery reader, but this is the book that has gained my attention enough to want to extend my reading list to include more books of this genre.  I sneak in a chapter or two at work during breaks and look forward to them.  Kindle, I'm finding, is a great way to take my reading with me.  I can't sing enough praises for the Kindle app I downloaded onto my tablet.

There are differences I see in how the parents of the boy accused are at odds, and I anticipate they will survive the storm.  Whether or not the trailer trash who is suspected by the father, a lawyer and self taught detective, it feels like he will play a bigger part as the story unfolds.  It certainly has my attention.

This is a book selection made by one of the members of my monthly book club.  I'm far too glued to classics to have come up with this one.  I'm glad someone suggested it.
638776
Unexpectedly brilliant, one of my top 20 all time favs!
1145797
There's a lot to enjoy with this book. First, I should say I did a book swap for reviews. The cool thing is we both finished on the same day. Unfortunately, a migraine slowed me down and I'm just now getting to my review. The second cool thing is both of our books tackle the idea of soul mates (with some spectacular colors manifesting).

Here's what worked for me--
~I loved the characters. They had well rounded personalities that I believed. Hope tugged at me. She wants to help others no matter the cost, and yet she also wishes for that normal life mentioned above.
~The pacing is perfect. I never had a moment that I wished it moved faster. The action and secrets come out at a steady pace.
~I enjoy a good romance, and although there are lots of other things going on, the romance is lovely. The chemistry between Tie and Hope is electrical. There's just something about what you can't have.
~I really wanted to find out what happened to Hope in her previous life. Which means I have to read the next book in the series!
~The Japanese connection and mythology is wonderful.
~The scene where Hope fights. Yeah. That.

A few nitpicks--
~There's quite a bit of passive voice. It's something I notice, especially when coming out of editing mode. It isn't too bad and I don't think most people will notice.
~The trope feels really familiar. The love triangle, reincarnated demi-god with amnesia, best friend that's fiercely protective, et. BUT having said that, the details in the story telling make it fresh. Plus, I like most of those tropes. :)

All in all, I really enjoyed this book. I mean, I couldn't sleep when I finished. The story and how it ended kept running through my head. How would the next phase play out? How? How? How?

For this reason, I give The Healer by C.J. Anaya a 4.5.

1-5 scale and what it means:
1: I couldn't even finish it / just plain bad
2: I hope I didn't pay for this / disappointing
3: I didn't hate it, but it was still missing something / forgettable but inoffensive
3.5: On the line between good and ok / like, not love
4: Solid mind candy / worth reading
4.5: So very close to perfection! / must read
5: I could not put it down and Im still thinking about it! / a true treasure
1035091
Zen Cho is a new favorite of mine. I highly recommend Sorcerer to the Crown as well. Can't wait to see what she writes next!