Christmas on Cape Cod by Nan Rossiter

*Disclosure of material connection- I received a copy of the book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for my honest thoughts. I wasn't required to write a positive review and all opinions stated are 100% my own. -

About the book-

In this heartwarming holiday tale by New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Nan Rossiter, old friends discover the best gifts are the ones worth waiting for . . .
 
With Christmas just around the corner, Asa Coleman has his hands full keeping up with his young son Noah’s rambunctious spirit. Whether he’s playing Santa or keeping a furry surprise under wraps, the joy Asa feels in Noah’s delight is all he could ask for as a single father. His best friend Maddie Carlson has been more than helpful throughout the season’s sometimes overwhelming rush of activities, and she can’t help but see how well she fits into their lives. But as always, something holds Asa back from accepting the happiness he deserves. Except this year, when it’s time to open gifts, something special might surprise them all . . .
 

My thoughts-

This was a short and sweet novella and I really enjoyed it. I think I will literally read anything set on the Cape because it is one of my favorite places I have ever been. I also get an itch around late September to read Christmas novels, so this one was definitely one I enjoyed. It was a sweet love story and I read it in just a couple of days. I didn't know before I read it but it is a continuation of a book called The Gin and Chowder Club which, of course, immediately went on my to-read list, as well as many of Nan Rossiters other books since they are all mostly set on the Cape! 

The Spirit of God Illustrated Bible by Doris Rikkers

*Disclosure of material connection- I received a copy of the book from the publisher via Flyby Promotions in exchange for my honest thoughts. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions stated are 100% my own.

About the book-

Over 40 Bible stories are brought to life the words of Doris Rikkers and the illustrations of Fernando Juarez. From the story of creation, to the letters of Paul, as well as many other old and new testament stories, The Spirit of God Illustrated Bible reminds us that the spirit of God is always with us.

My thoughts-

I absolutely love The Spirit of God Illustrated Bible! The pictures are so gorgeous and appealing that even adults would enjoy looking at and reading these stories. It is nice to have illustrations to go with easy to understand words for kids to better understand the Bible and to enjoy reading about it in the process. I like the way each story is a few pages long so you could read one or two each night with your kids before bed or at whatever time you decide to read it. I love that it is a hardback book so that it will stand up to little hands and last a long time!

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Unbroken: The Path to Redemption- In Theaters Tomorrow! + Fandango Ticket Giveaway!

*Disclosure of material connection- I received an advanced screening of the movie from Flyby Promotions in exchange for my honest thoughts. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions are 100% my own. 

Several years ago when Laura Hillenbrand wrote Unbroken, it became my absolute favorite biography, and it still is 6 years later. There is just something so gripping about Louie's story while he was a prisoner of war. I happily went and saw the movie version of Unbroken when it came out too, and then when I heard that there was another movie about Louie Zamparini coming out, I couldn't contain my excitement! I was so excited to watch this movie! Unbroken: The Path to Redemption is the story of what happened to Louie after he came back from being a prisoner of war, and about his relationships with his family and with, his struggles with PTSD and his faith and ultimately what all led up to him becoming the man of faith we learned about in Unbroken. This movie was moving in a completely different way than the first one, but maybe even more important to watch  (although I recommend watching both!) . Unbroken: The Path to Redemption is out in theaters tomorrow!

Look below the trailer for your chance to win 2 tickets to see Unbroken: The Path to Redemption!
 
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Little People BIG DREAMS- Mother Teresa by Isabel Sanchez Vegara

*Disclosure of material connection- I received a copy of the book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for my honest thoughts. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions stated are 100% my own. 

About the book-

New in the Little People, Big Dreams series, discover the incredible life of Mother Teresa, in this true story of her life.

With stylish and quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, this empowering series celebrates the important life stories of wonderful women of the world. From designers and artists to scientists, all of them went on to achieve incredible things, yet all of them began life as a little child with a dream. These books make the lives of these role models accessible for children, providing a powerful message to inspire the next generation of outstanding people who will change the world!

My thoughts- 

I have enjoyed every book in this series, and I love seeing all of the amazing, positive female role models being profiled, but I saved my favorite for last. I have always found inspiration from Mother Teresa, who dedicated her life to helping the poor in India. If there were anyone famous I would ever strive to be like, it would be here. Once again, this is a great introduction of a female role model to kids with gorgeous illustrations to match. I think this book belongs on every kid's bookshelf!

Christmas on Mistletoe Lane by Annie Rains

*Disclosure of material connection- I received a copy of the book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for my honest thoughts. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions stated are 100% my own. 

About the book-

Welcome to the Sweetwater Springs -- where a B&B is getting a major makeover, traditions take centerstage, and everyone gets a fresh start.
Christmas is coming to the North Carolina mountains, and the air is fresh and crisp and filled with promise. After the devastating loss of her job in the big city, the small town of Sweetwater Springs feels like heaven to Kaitlyn Russo. She's inherited her grandparents' charming (if a little rundown) bed and breakfast, and it's just the new lease on life she needs. Only "heaven" comes with a catch-and a handsome and completely infuriating one at that. 

After what he hopes will be a quick trip, Mitch Hargrove wants nothing more than to put his hometown in the rearview mirror. But his plans get derailed when he learns he's now half-owner of the Sweetwater B&B. The fact that he's given only two months to make the inn a success is a huge problem, but it's his pretty-and incredibly headstrong-partner who's the real challenge. With the holiday fast approaching and a grand re-opening looming, will Mitch keep running from the ghosts of Christmas past . . . or will he realize the true gift he's been 

My thoughts-

Around the beginning of September I get an uncontrollable itch to start reading Christmas novels. I have several on deck waiting to be read after Christmas on Mistletoe Lane already! This was an excellent book to kick of my Christmas reading extravaganza. It had the quintessential love story, but it was also set in a small town AND in a Bed and Breakfast, both of which always add to the romantic aspect of a novel for me. I found myself rooting for Kaitlyn and Mitch, and shaking my head at Mitch plenty too. I recommend this book to anyone who just can't wait for the Hallmark Channel's Christmas movies to start playing! This will hold you over until then!

Little People BIG DREAMS- Lucy Maud Montgomery by Isabel Sanchez Vegara

*Disclosure of material connection- I received a copy of the book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for my honest thoughts. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions stated are 100% my own. 

About the book-

New in the Little People, Big Dreams series, discover the incredible life of Lucy Maud Montgomery, the famous writer, in this true story of her life.

With stylish and quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, this empowering series celebrates the important life stories of wonderful women of the world. From designers and artists to scientists, all of them went on to achieve incredible things, yet all of them began life as a little child with a dream. These books make the lives of these role models accessible for children, providing a powerful message to inspire the next generation of outstanding people who will change the world!

My thoughts- 

I think of my first favorite book series' was Anne of Green Gables. There was just something so interesting about her story. I didn't know much about the author, L.M. Montgomery so this Little People BIG DREAMS book taught me something new. It makes sense why she would want to escape into the world of writing and why she did such a good job at it with such an early interest and big imagination. I think that kids will love this book and maybe be inspired to read Anne of Green Gables as well. 

Little People Big Dreams- Anne Frank by Isabel Sanchez Vegara

*Disclosure of material connection- I received a copy of the book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for my honest thoughts. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions stated are 100% my own.

About the book-

New in the Little People, Big Dreams series, discover the life of Anne Frank, the writer whose diary captured the hearts of the public, in this true story of her life. Little Anne was born in Germany to a liberal Jewish family. But when the Nazis came into power she was forced to go into hiding with her family.

With innovative illustrations and extra facts at the back, this empowering series celebrates the important life stories of wonderful women of the world. From designers and artists to scientists, all of them went on to achieve incredible things, yet all of them began life as a little child with a dream. These books make the lives of these role models accessible for children, providing a powerful message to inspire the next generation of outstanding people who will change the world!

My thoughts-

The first time I read The Diary of Anne Frank, I was in 8th grade. We read it out loud in class and I remember always volunteering to read Anne's part. I loved reading, I loved the idea of being a writer, and I was inspired by Anne's positive outlook in the midst of probably the worst time in world history. This book aimed at introducing Anne Frank's story to younger kids does a fantastic job of staying sensitive through the wording of the book, but without downplaying what happened to Anne. I thought the black and white pictures with the dairy always displayed in color was a beautiful choice and help portray the fact that this was a dark time in history, but to Anne that Diary was her bright spot. I highly recommend Little People Big Dreams: Anne Frank to absolutely anyone. I think just like Anne's diary, this is a must read for everyone. 

I'll Be There for You: The One About Friends by Kelsey Miller

*Disclosure of material connection- I received a copy of the book from the publisher in exchange for my honest thoughts. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions stated are 100% my own. 

About the book-

Today, Friends is remembered as an icon of 90s comedy and the Must See TV years. But when the series debuted in 1994, no one anticipated the sensation it would become. From the first wave of Friends mania to the backlash and renaissance that followed, the show maintained an uncanny connection to its audience, who saw it both as a reflection of their own lives and an aspirational escape from reality. In the years since, Friends has evolved from prime-time megahit to nostalgic novelty, and finally, to certified classic. Ross, Rachel, Monica, Chandler, Joey and Phoebe have entered the pantheon of great television characters, and yet their stories remain relevant still.

I’ll Be There for You is a deep dive into Friends history and lore, exploring all aspects of the show, from its unlikely origins to the societal conditions that amplified its success. Journalist and pop culture expert Kelsey Miller relives the show’s most powerful moments, sheds light on its sometimes dated and problematic elements, and examines the worldwide trends that Friends catalyzed, from contemporary coffee culture to the wildly popular Ô90s haircut The Rachel. Taking readers behind the scenes, Miller traces the cast’s rise to fame and untangles the complex relationship between the actors and their characters. Weavig in revelatory interviews and personal stories, she investigates the role of celebrity media, world-changing events and the dawning of the digital age—all of which influenced both the series and its viewers.

I’ll Be There for You is the definitive retrospective of Friends, not only for fans of the series, but for anyone who’s ever wondered what it is about this show—and television comedy—that resonates so powerfully.

My thoughts-

I was a teenager in the 90's so of course Friends is one of my favorite shows. It is like comfort food to me, especially  the Thanksgiving episodes, I have this show playing in the background quite often and I know other people from my generation do too. I will devour any book related to Friends even two decades after the show ended. I'll Be There For You: The One About Friends had some interesting behind the scenes facts. I absolutely loved the section that gave the background on each of the main six cast members and how they came to join the show. They were six incredibly unique experiences and they all came together to make one of the best esemble casts of all time. Some of the rest of the book gets a little political, and that isn't what I want in a story about one of my favorite TV shows. I wanted more about the actors and less political stuff. I did appreciate the backstory on the writers and others involved in the behind the scenes work! Still, I would recommend this book to any fan of Friends. 

Little People BIG DREAMS- Jane Austen by Isabel Sanchez Vegara

*Disclosure of material connection- I received a copy of the book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for my honest thoughts. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions stated are 100% my own. 

I absolutely love seeing book series' for children about really important grown ups. It is great for them to have people who have done something extraordinary to look up to and aspire to be like. One of my favorite author's of all time, Jane Austen, is a great example of one of those people and one of the subjects of the Little People BIG DREAMS series. The book tells us about Ms. Austen's early life, how she became interested in writing, the inspiration for her book Pride and Prejudice and other facts about her. The illustrations are gorgeous and really add to the appeal of the book. There is also a timeline at the end that I think really brings the whole thing together. I recommend this book to any kid who likes to learn about history and people from history or to any Jane Austen fan.

This Old Gal's Pressure Cookbook by by Jill Selkowitz

*Disclosure of material connection- I received a copy of the book from publisher via Netgalley in exchange for my honest thoughts. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions stated are 100% my own. 

About the book-

Do you have a new pressure cooker you're too scared to use? Now with This Old Gal's Pressure Cooker Cookbook, you can use your Instant Pot, pressure cooker, and slow cooker with ease and confidence!  

Get delicious, easy-to-prepare meals on your table in a fraction of the time! More than a million people have been coming to author Jill Selkowitz's blog, This Old Gal, for her incredibly easy and delicious pressure cooker recipes, and now you can have them at your fingertips with brand new, never-before-seen recipes, tips for getting the most from your pressure cooker, and the quickest, tastiest dishes you can get on the table for your family in no time. 

Want to learn how to make Sweet & Sour Chicken just like your local restaurant? How about Chicken Enchiladas? Beef Stew with Root Vegetables? What about Red Wine Braised Short Ribs, or Tomato Basil Soup? With photographs and step-by-step instructions as well as make-ahead, freezer meals, Jill can show you how to use you pressure cooker to make anything from appetizers, pastas, meats, and desserts - you'll never be at a loss for a delicious dinner! You know your pressure cooker can change your life, so what are you waiting for?

My thoughts-

I spend a lot of time in my kitchen because I enjoy cooking, but I know not everyone feels that way. There are days I don't want to be spending all of my time cooking as well and that is what my Instant Pot is one of my favorite (if not my absolute favorite) of all of my kitchen gadgets. It is convenient and makes cooking nice homemade meals fast and easy! What I love about This Old Gal's Pressure Cookbook is that there is a wide array of recipes all in one place. There are kid friendly recipes, plenty of ethnic recipes (I will be spending a lot of time making the meals from the Indian section!), and even some low carb and gluten free recipes sprinkled throughout. I love that there is a wide variety of different meals, all to be made in a pressure cooker. There are also some basic recipes for things like ghee and yogurt, as well cooking instructions for simple things like boiled eggs and corn on the cob (two of my favorite things to make in my Instant Pot!). I recommend This Old Gal's Pressure Cookbook  to anyone who owns an electric pressure cooker. This book is perfect for both the novice and the advanced user. 

150+ Gluten-Free Family Favorites by Tamara Dillon and Bonnie Root

*Disclosure of material connection- I received a copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for my honest thoughts. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions stated are 100% my own. 

About the book-

Get Rid of the Gluten, Not the Good Taste

Are you one of the roughly three million people in the US who struggles with celiac disease? Do you have an intolerance or sensitivity to gluten? Whatever your reason for incorporating gluten-free foods into your daily diet, this one-of-a-kind cookbook adapts all your family favorite recipes into incredibly delicious gluten-free family favorites.

Ditch the gluten, but none of the foods you love, with these mouthwatering recipes:

Little Smoky BBQ Bacon Bites

Sinfully Cinnamon Cinnamon Rolls

Blissful Buttermilk Biscuits

Cilantro-Lime Shredded Chicken Tacos

Chocolate Chip Cheesecake

...and so much more!

Yes, you can still enjoy all your favorite foods and live a successful gluten-free life!

My thoughts-

Just looking at this book made me want to read it. I knew by the cover that there would be some great recipes in here. There was everything I could have possibly hoped for divided by sections, starting with the breakfast section and capping things off with both a holidays and kid friendly section. There were appealing options in every category and I like that the authors specified specific flours instead of making me go search for each different type of flour to make a gluten free flour on my own. It's so much easier and cheaper to buy a pre-made blend. I like that nothing in the book makes me think "that's a gluten free recipe". So many comfort foods and favorite foods are in these pages and that is especially important for my 10 year old daughter who has a gluten intolerance but doesn't want to feel different. I recommend this book to anyone who wants fantastic gluten free recipes all in one place. 

Martina's Kitchen Mix by Martina McBride

*Disclosure of material connection- I received a copy of the book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for my honest thoughts. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions stated are 100% my own. 

About the book-

At home or on the road, Martina McBride is a consummate entertainer who feeds souls through her music, nurturing spirit, and delicious home cooking.

When she’s not on stage or in the studio, country music icon Martina McBride is mos t likely in the kitchen cooking with family and friends. Growing up on a farm in Kansas, Martina began helping in the kitchen at an early age, preparing fresh-from-the-field ingredients at her mother’s side. Meals and stories were shared daily around the table. It’s a tradition she continues with her own family as often as she can because real life is what’s worth celebrating. In this gorgeously photographed cookbook, readers will find more than 100 simple and satisfying recipes that entice with fresh, seasonal ingredients and downhome flavor. Whip up her family favorites like her mother-in-law Flavia’s Deviled Eggs, husband John’s Bacon-Wrapped Olives, or her go-to Grilled Shrimp Tacos with Chipotle Sauce and Slaw. Mix things up in your own kitchen by following Martina’s inspired ideas to feed a handful or a houseful.

My thoughts-

Martina McBride has long been one of my favorite country artists. I was lucky enough to see her sing live in Nashville many years ago and I remember thinking how does such a powerful voice come out of such a tiny human? I was excited to see she had a cookbook and even more excited to see that she has a fantastic ability to put together a good recipe. I would try pretty much anything in this book. What I really loved that many of these were creative recipes I haven't seen before but that they sound completely delicious. I can't wait to get in my kitchen and to try out some of these fantastic recipes! I recommend this book to anyone who loves Martina McBride or who loves to experiment in the kitchen and have a wide array of interesting and tasty recipes at their fingertips.

Curiositree: The Human Tree by AJ Wood, Mike Jolley

*Disclosure of material connection- I received a copy of the book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for my honest thoughts. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions stated are 100% my own. 

About the book-


CHOOSE YOUR OWN LEARNING ADVENTURE with Curiositree, a new series of visually compelling information charts. In the second title, Human World, discover the myriad reasons why humans have become the most successful species on the planet. Travel from our earliest beginnings to the modern day, and discover how our evolution is interconnected by following the arrows that link to charts on related topics throughout the book. Including the development of farming, the origins of writing, religion, trade, weapons, and armor, the first cities and the growth of technology in the modern age, this visual compendium of wonders from the mind of man is full of fascinating information for curious young readers. 

My thoughts-

This is such a cool book! The colorful graphs and beautiful pictures make learning about the past even more fun. My kids are insatiable learners, and love to learn facts and gain knowledge. Human World allows them to do that regarding so many different subjects on humans and our world. This small little book holds a great deal of knowledge just waiting to be shared with kids who love to learn. Human World would make a great book for a home school library or would be great for any kid who loves to learn about the world around them. 

Simply Bento by Yuko Yagi, Noriko Yura

*Disclosure of material connection- I received a copy of the book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for my honest thoughts. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions stated are 100% my own. 

About the book-

From the creators of Japanese Cooking 101, Simply Bento is a complete collection of nearly 100 delicious and healthy bento recipes for everyone in the family. 

Ready to make lunch quick, easy, and delicious? Traditional Japanese bento boxes are single-portion packed lunches usually made with things like steamed rice, vegetables, and sushi, and they have long been one of the main pillars of Japanese cuisine.

Today, bento boxes have become hugely popular in both the East and West, creating a fusion of incredible flavor combinations. Simply Bento features nearly 100 healthy, delicious bento recipes you can make for every day of the week using a combination of traditional and non-traditional ingredients! Learn the essential components for a bento box, how to assemble your box, and the everyday items you will need in your pantry.

Simply Bento comes to you from the creators of the popular site Japanese Cooking 101, and shows you the finer points of making:10-Minute BentoNoodle BentoLow-Carb BentoVegan BentoSandwich BentoPopular Japanese BentoMake-ahead BentoSo if you're in the mood for Teriyaki Chicken, Ramen, Avocado Pasta Salad, Cauliflower Fried Rice, Falafel, Tempura, or Chicken Nugget for the kids, then Simply Bento has the bento recipes for all of them and more!

My thoughts-

While there have been some improvements to public school lunches since the 80's and 90's while I was in school, I still think they have a long way to go before they get anywhere near the healthy meals I would want my kids buying at school, so my kids take their lunch. Packing kid lunches you can still fall in the trap of unhealthy foods as well, so I am always looking for new ideas on healthy lunch choices. The Japanese food art of bento has always interested me, but I have never found a book like this that breaks down the history and art of it. I love that there are plenty of traditional Japanese options in the book, but that there are also some Americanized ideas as well. There are intricate lunches that might take some time and effort to make, but there are some that would be quicker to throw together. I also love that these are meals my husband and kids would enjoy, and that they are healthy choices for all of them but will still be tasty and flavorful. I recommend this book to anyone looking to up their lunch game or just wanting to learn more about Japanese food culture. 

The Lost Carousel of Provence by Juliet Blackwell

*Disclosure of material connection-I received a copy of the book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for my honest thoughts. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions stated are 100% my own. 

About the book-

An artist lost to history, a family abandoned to its secrets, and the woman whose search for meaning unearths it all in a sweeping and expressive story from the New York Times bestselling author of Letters from Paris.

Long, lonely years have passed for the crumbling Château Clement, nestled well beyond the rolling lavender fields and popular tourist attractions of Provence. Once a bustling and dignified ancestral estate, now all that remains is the château's gruff, elderly owner and the softly whispered secrets of generations buried and forgotten.
 
But time has a way of exposing history's dark stains, and when American photographer Cady Drake finds herself drawn to the château and its antique carousel, she longs to explore the relic's shadowy origins beyond the small scope of her freelance assignment. As Cady digs deeper into the past, unearthing century-old photographs of the Clement carousel and its creators, she might be the one person who can bring the past to light and reunite a family torn apart.

My thoughts-

I often find myself drawn to books that take place in more than one time period, especially if one of the time periods happens to be during WWII. I have always gravitated towards stories set during that time, and lately I am especially interested in stories that deal with the French Resistance Movement. What I really loved about The Lost Carousel of Provence is that it is full of layers- there are 3 time periods, and one of the main characters is in both of them. His character is significantly younger in the older time period and I think Juliet Blackwell does a terrific job at making sure we see what has happened in his younger years has really effected how he is in the present day story. I like that there is an element of mystery surrounding Fabrice and his direct ancestors both in the past and present. I found him to be the fabric that tied all of the stories in each time together. I liked that there were elements of suspense, romance, and history running throughout the book. I recommend this book to anyone interested in WWII, France, and Women's Fiction. 

The Edible Cookie Dough Cookbook by Olivia Hops

Disclosure of material connection- I received a copy of the book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for my honest thoughts. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions stated are 100% my own. 

The Edible Cookie Dough Cookbook is exactly what someone with a big sweet tooth needs for endless options of great desserts. I think many people enjoying eating cookie dough, but this book allows you do that safely. It also delivers the opportunity to try a wide array of recipe options for every palate and has recipes that would fit nearly every dessert making occasion. The first section focuses on cookie dough recipes. Most are pretty simple recipes, but there are a few more intricate ones as well. The second section allows you to use your cookie doughs to make out of this world desserts if you want to do something more complicated or mix more flavors together. I recommend this book to the cookie dough enthusiast or anyone who enjoys a homemade sweet treat.

The Dinner List by Rebecca Serle

*Disclosure of material connection- I received a copy of the book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for my honest thoughts. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions stated are 100% my own. 

About the book-

“We’ve been waiting for an hour.” That’s what Audrey says. She states it with a little bit of an edge, her words just bordering on cursive. That’s the thing I think first. Not: Audrey Hepburn is at my birthday dinner, but Audrey Hepburn is annoyed.”

At one point or another, we’ve all been asked to name five people, living or dead, with whom we’d like to have dinner. Why do we choose the people we do? And what if that dinner was to actually happen? These are the questions Rebecca Serle contends with in her utterly captivating novel, THE DINNER LIST, a story imbued with the same delightful magical realism as One Day, and the life-changing romance of Me Before You.

When Sabrina arrives at her thirtieth birthday dinner she finds at the table not just her best friend, but also three significant people from her past, and well, Audrey Hepburn. As the appetizers are served, wine poured, and dinner table conversation begins, it becomes clear that there’s a reason these six people have been gathered together.

Delicious but never indulgent, sweet with just the right amount of bitter, THE DINNER LIST is a romance for our times. Bon appetit.

My thoughts-

I was so excited to read The Dinner List because the concept seemed so interesting. I think many of us have been posed the question, if you could have dinner with 5 people living or dead who would they be? This book takes that question and helps paint a picture of what that might be like. Sabrina has this happen to her in the book at her 30th birthday. There is only one famous person in the mix, Audrey Hepburn, but she ties together several of the people in Sabrina's life and makes the story more interesting to boot, she may have been my favorite part of the book. The Dinner List explores several key relationships in Sabrina's life- her relationship with her estranged father, her best friend who she seems to have lost her connection with, and the love of her life, Tobias, and the struggles they went through and what happened that ultimately lead to their parting. The book is heartbreaking and romantic and keeps you turning page after page to see what exactly happened in all of these relationships. I recommend this book to anyone who wants to read something refreshing and new or who enjoys contemporary literature. 

Fizz Boom Bath! By Isabel Bercaw, Caroline Bercaw

*Disclosure of material connection- I received a copy of the book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for my honest thoughts. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions are 100% my own. 

About the book-

Have you ever been at a store and found yourself staring longingly at a table full of scrumptious-looking bath bombs, shower melts, or lotion bars and thought, “Gee, it would be fun to make these at home, but where the heck would I begin?!” Well, we’re here to take the mystery out of bath and body recipes and give you all the tools you need to crown yourself Archbishop of Bathtopia. We’ll hold your hand every step of the way, and then we’ll exfoliate it with some sugar scrub when we’re finished! This book will teach you how to create all kinds of delightful, natural, homemade treats. From fizzers to scrubs, masks to soaps, bubble bars to shower melts, we’ve got you covered.

My thoughts-

A few years ago I bought several bath bomb molds on a whim and started making my own. At first it took some trial and error, but I found a few recipes online that worked well. Fizz Boom Bath! Is full of interesting, fun, new bath bomb recipes to take my bath bomb making to the next level. What I really love about the book is that there are so many other do it yourself beauty product recipes in the book including bath jellies, hand scrubs, lotions, foot masks, ect. Most of these recipes have stuff that I have lying around the house to try out these fun recipes. Fizz Boom Bath! is an excellent resource for making beauty products at home. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys D.I.Y. or  beauty products.  

All We Ever Wanted by Emily Griffin

*Disclosure of material connection- I received a copy of the book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for my honest thoughts. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions stated are 100% my own. 

About the book-

Nina Browning is living the good life after marrying into Nashville’s elite. More recently, her husband made a fortune selling his tech business, and their adored son has been accepted to Princeton. Yet sometimes the middle-class small-town girl in Nina wonders if she’s strayed from the person she once was.

Tom Volpe is a single dad working multiple jobs while struggling to raise his headstrong daughter, Lyla. His road has been lonely, long, and hard, but he finally starts to relax after Lyla earns a scholarship to Windsor Academy, Nashville’s most prestigious private school.

Amid so much wealth and privilege, Lyla doesn’t always fit in—and her overprotective father doesn’t help—but in most ways, she’s a typical teenaged girl, happy and thriving.

Then, one photograph, snapped in a drunken moment at a party, changes everything. As the image spreads like wildfire, the Windsor community is instantly polarized, buzzing with controversy and assigning blame.

At the heart of the lies and scandal, Tom, Nina, and Lyla are forced together—all questioning their closest relationships, asking themselves who they really are, and searching for the courage to live a life of true meaning.

My thoughts-

Nashville is one of my favorite places to visit and Emily Griffin is an author I really like, so I knew I would like this book before I even read it. Bonus points for mentioning one of my favorite hotels in Dallas (not too far from where I live), The Mansion on Turtle Creek! This was a quick moving story line and it didn't take me long to get through reading this one, just two days. I find Nina to be so easy to like and feel empathy for and Tom and Lyla really drew me in as well. The story is told from 3 different view points and I love books that are written in this format because I think it always goes a long way in really setting the scene and getting the full impact of the story having several different view points. The only complaint I have is I wanted more in the epilogue. I liked the taste of their futures but I wanted to know even more. All We Ever Wanted tackles some tough subject matter, but it is done in a way that I think isn't too overbearing. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys contemporary fiction. 

The Other Lady Vanishes by Amanda Quick

*Disclosure of material connection- I received a copy of the book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for my honest thoughts. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions stated are 100% my own. 

About the book-

After escaping from a private sanitarium, Adelaide Blake arrives in Burning Cove, California, desperate to start over.

Working at an herbal tea shop puts her on the radar of those who frequent the seaside resort town: Hollywood movers and shakers always in need of hangover cures and tonics. One such customer is Jake Truett, a recently widowed businessman in town for a therapeutic rest. But unbeknownst to Adelaide, his exhaustion is just a cover.

In Burning Cove, no one is who they seem. Behind facades of glamour and power hide drug dealers, gangsters, and grifters. Into this make-believe world comes psychic to the stars Madame Zolanda. Adelaide and Jake know better than to fall for her kind of con. But when the medium becomes a victim of her own dire prediction and is killed, they're drawn into a murky world of duplicity and misdirection.

Neither Adelaide nor Jake can predict that in the shadowy underground they'll find connections to the woman Adelaide used to be--and uncover the specter of a killer who's been real all along...

My thoughts-

The Other Lady Vanishes seemed liked a great book to reach for during my flight to Vegas for our family vacation and it was absolutely the right pick. It was full of interesting characters, great plot points, and a love story. It was just light enough to read on a flight, but intense enough to keep my interest. It did get repetitive in places and that was kind of a bummer, but not so much that it made me not like the book. I really enjoyed getting to know the small town of Burning Cove and it's newest residents, Adelaide and Jake. I liked the main premise of the story of Adelaide escaping from the sanitarium and the murder mystery with the psychic. If this continued on as a series, I would definitely want to read the next book to find out what happens to Adelaide after her past is behind her. 

Low Carb on the Go by Sandra Stupning, Mirco Stupning

*Disclosure of material connection- I received a copy of the book form the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for my honest thoughts. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions stated are 100% my own. 

About the book-

More than 80 fast, healthy low-carbohydrate recipes for meals and snacks you can eat anywhere, anytime.

Low-carb eating is a sustainable lifestyle choice for people who want to lose weight, stabilize blood sugar, or simply avoid the afternoon carb coma. Fitting a low-carbohydrate diet into your busy day is easy with more than 80 meal and snack recipes bursting with modern, vegetable- and protein-packed ideas such as Chia Seed and Turmeric Pudding, Coconut and Vanilla Energy Balls, and Chicken Teriyaki with Cauliflower Rice. Discover tips and tricks for healthy meal prep, and the best way to store and transport your low-carb lunch to keep it looking and tasting fresh. Each recipe contains nutritional information, including the all-important carb count, as well as a handy guide to prep time and equipment you'll need. With Low Carb on the Go, you can plan your low-carb diet and stick to it with more than 80 delicious, healthy meals and snacks for anytime, anywhere.

My thoughts-

I am a stay at home mom but during the school year I stay very busy with volunteering and during the summer I stay busy with keeping the kids busy so it is good to have some portable food that works well on the go. There are definitely some good recipes here, I plan to try the kimchi, and the oops bread recipes first, and I like that the nutrition facts are listed for each recipe at the bottom of the page. I didn't like that fiber count wasn't included because I find that to be an important part of each meal as well, but of course for any person doing a low carb diet fat and protein counts are the most important and I like that it is listed right on each recipe page to make counting macros that much easier. I think anyone looking to have healthy meals on the go would get great use out of this cookbook, but would especially recommend it to people who follow a low carb lifestyle. 

Vegan Pressure Cooking, Revise & Expanded by JL Fields

*Disclosure of material connection- I received a copy of the book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for my honest thoughts. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions stated are 100% my own. 

About the book-

Conquer your pressure cooking fears and make meals in minutes!
  Say goodbye to long cooking and preparation times. With an Instant Pot® or other pressure cooker, you can cook filling, nutritious meals in under an hour and with little mess or cleanup. It's the dinner (and breakfast, and lunch) solution you've always dreamed of. 
 
In this revised edition of the classic Vegan Pressure Cooking, you'll find:
--More than 30 pages of new content, including new recipes (over 120 recipes total) and new photos
--Information about using any type of pressure cooker or multicooker, including an Instant Pot, and how to choose which is best for you
--Cooking charts for beans, grains, vegetables, and more, so there’s no guesswork—or mushy vegetables—involved
--Recipes that span all meals and tastes, from easy breakfasts like Savory Oatmeal and Stewed Apricots to healthy dinners like Kale, Lentil, and Squash Chili and Sweet Potato Enchiladas

Perfect for novice cooks and experts alike, there's something for everyone with Vegan Pressure Cooking


My thoughts-

I think this is an excellent book for someone who is vegan or wanting to explore veganism. I am not vegan, but I love my Instant Pot and was hoping for some good veggie heavy recipes. What I found were carb heavy recipes, which makes sense because vegans need to get their protein from grains. I think there were some excellent recipes in the book, just not many that would work for my grain free lifestyle. There were a few though that I will definitely be giving a try. I definitely recommend this book to anyone who follows a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle or who just want more varied recipes for their Instant Pot.