Haunt Sweet Home

At twenty-something Mara’s parents have put some pressure on her to return to college. Currently working as a barista and helping her cousin manage a small apartment complex is not exactly her life’s dream but she has no idea what is. Born into a large close knit family full of talented artists and musicians Mara, the youngest, often feels completely left out in the cold. One day her cousin Jeremy offers her a job as a production assistant on the hit reality show he currently hosts called Haunt Sweet Home. Mara figures she has nothing to lose and accepts. Given she will be the lowest worker on the totem pole, Mara is the yes girl for whatever anyone needs on the night shift. As they choose old creepy Victorian homes with brand new owners about to renovate, it is not difficult to place some eerie sounds and fog late at night sending the contestants into panic mode. Mara is often so tired she can barely keep her eyes open, often confusing her surroundings with some of the special effects. Then she meets Jo. And suddenly there is an extremely fine line between the ghosts and reality. Sparking fear and curiosity, the idea of spirits lingering among us captures the imagination. This spooky supernatural novella is perfect for the Halloween season. ⭐⭐⭐⭐

The Chicken Sisters

It has taken Mae Moore six long years to reinvent herself. Here she is, in Brooklyn, with two gorgeous children and a successful husband, Jay. She is a self made organizational guru working on reality tv and doing well with her first book. But down in Merinac, Kansas her mother’s restaurant Chicken Mimi’s desperately needs her. Or at least they need her conniving manipulating determination. Apparently her sister Amanda, who works for Chicken Frannie’s, their arched enemy, applied to be a contestant on Food Wars. This uber popular food competition has a prize worth $100,000. Both chicken restaurants are badly in need of the cash. Mimi’s and Frannie’s have been competing for decades but when Amanda switches teams and shockingly marries the son, Frank Pogociello - it was the straw that broke the chicken’s back. Mae escaped this small town and never looked back. Well, now her mother desperately needs her help and frankly she is still furious at Amanda. It doesn’t take long for the conniving producer to pit the sisters against each other spilling recipes, lies and deep dark secrets. The whole town gets swept up in the rivalry, battling to crown the best restaurant. But in the end, it all comes down to a fairly simple choice and the sisters must figure out what matters more to them — family or fowl! ⭐⭐⭐⭐

A Poisonous Palate

One day Hayley Snow, our favorite Key Zest Food Critic/Amateur Sleuth receives an email from a woman named Catherine Davitt. She is in town writing a novel about Hemingway’s toxic love affairs. But Catherine has another motive, she has never given up on finding out what happened to her friend in the late 1970’s. The two young women had come down to the Keys seeking freedom and adventure. They wound up joining an eclectic group camping out in Big Pine. When the beautiful Veronica went missing the group dispersed and for decades Catherine has longed for answers to her friend’s supposed disappearance. We all know that Hayley Snow cannot resist a good mystery. Together with her faithful and funny sidekick, Miss Gloria, and against her husband’s better judgement, the detective work begins. The women start by tracking down Catherine’s old group of friends, researching records at the Sheriff’s department and generally being an excellent pair of nosey bodies extracting alibis from an array of dubious characters. As the unlikely secrets begin to unravel, the cold case looks more and more like murder. Fabulous local author Lucy Burdette serves up another cozy mystery that will leave you hungry for more—Key West has never tasted so deadly! ⭐⭐⭐⭐

The Trade Off

Bea has always been a standout, a genius with numbers who consistently topped her class. With a mind that effortlessly calculates and visualizes patterns, she excelled in the stock market like it was second nature. After attending Hunter college most women were getting married but Bea dreamed of becoming a stock broker. In the 1920’s women didn’t work on Wall Street and even though Bea was more than qualified the banks shunned her. Weaseling her way into a position in the wire room Bea was convinced she could prove her value. But the Abramovitz family was struggling. Living in the Lower East Side with her immigrant parents and twin brother was not easy. While her father managed a fruit and vegetable cart, her charming brother was a handful. Bea was expected to marry and stop this silly nonsense of a career. But she loved the rollercoaster ride of the fast paced market and it didn’t take long for the men at the bank to depend on her skills. Unfortunately, the promotion she never appeared. Bea would always be poor and a woman with no connections. As she watched the rich get richer, the poor continued to struggle. All Bea ever wanted was to help her father establish his own grocery and give her mother a bit of the glamour she left behind in Russia. It didn’t take long for Bea and Jake to come up with a plan. He could easily slide into the banking world with Bea as his secretary. She would funnel information making him an instant superstar. As Jake’s career soared, their wealth grew beyond anything their family had ever imagined. Yet Bea never stopped seeing the patterns. In 1929, what she foresaw was catastrophe—but who would listen to a woman? This masterful work of historical fiction transports readers to another era with a richly developed cast of characters, intriguing stock market history, and plenty of family drama. A must-read for fall! Highly recommended! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

That Librarian

Amanda Jones is a librarian in a small town located in Louisiana. Raised in this parish, Amanda and her family go to church every week, look out for their neighbors and always have the best interest of community at heart. Amanda has worked at the local middle school and currently as the school librarian. She is passionate about books and how they expand and affect everyones lives from the moment you learn to read. In 2022, Amanda decided to attend a local hearing where “book content” was on the agenda. She knew from the sensationalized media that this was a key word for certain groups aiming to censor book collections and restrict availability to the public. Amanda prepared a short statement on the value of a diverse collection and the processes already in place when material is challenged. There were some unfamiliar faces at that meeting. Looking back she learned a small group strategically seated and vocal were not even members of their community nor did they have children attending the schools or libraries later attacked. It was only after Amanda’s personal Facebook page blew up with derogatory lies and dangerous slander that she realized this group was political. Their motives were carefully hidden and the welfare of the local children was the least of their concern. An educator, not an activist, Amanda’s entire reputation was destroyed. With alarming speed and accuracy, Amanda became the target of a viscous movement aimed at censorship and banning books. Without going through the normal measures this group put pressure on the system by placing a target on the librarian’s back. Emotional, harmful and terrifying these women and men, most of whom have a masters degree in library science have been quieted. Part memoir and manifesto, Amanda stands strong, gaining allies across the nation and opening our eyes to the current socio-political climate regarding books in America. Both informative and inspiring, banning books is just another form of bullying. ⭐⭐⭐⭐

What Does It Feel Like?

Five kids is a lot, but Eve is lucky to have a wonderful husband who shares the work, allowing her the flexibility needed to write. As an award winning novelist Eve often imagines her life is simply too good to be true. Until one day she awakens in the hospital feeling very confused. With Nick at her bedside Eve can barely form the words floating through her mind. Slowly she learns that she has survived an intensive eight hour brain surgery to remove a malignant tumor, stage 4 glioblastoma. As Eve struggles to put her life back together she endures endless hours of therapy relearning basic tasks while her short term memory damage leaves her repeating the same questions over and over. Determined to fully get her life back, Eve remains hopeful, accepting help from her support team of professionals, family and friends. Learning to manage endless physical difficulties while suffering the emotional rollercoaster of cancer, Eve lives honestly and openly, accepting every moment as a blessing. Normally an author of light, fun comedies, this autobiographical fiction is quite different for author Sophie Kinsella, a beautiful soul who remains positive, gracefully sharing the most terrifying story of her life. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Here We Are

The Shahani’s came to the U.S. with three young children. Having left India long ago, they lived in many countries and spoke multiple languages. The children were born in Morocco, next stop Queens, New York, a melting pot within a melting pot. With little savings her parents would do any work necessary to give their children a better future. Their green cards were slow to arrive but as this was the early 1980’s, not impossible. Her capable, intelligent father found himself with menial labor jobs while her mother sewed and got involved in their small, diverse community. As they settled in, so did Aarti. She had the great fortune and obvious intelligence to be plucked out of public school and enter the world of Brearley, an all girls academy on the Upper East Side of Manhattan. Through high school Aarti, a scholarship student, met the type of girls she only saw on television. They had country homes, walk in closets and vacationed around the world. They were polite and well spoken, only the best would do. But she also realized the racism that existed was on a whole different level. Her skin would always be darker, her family poor. The Shahani’s moved to a home in NJ. Her father was running an electronics business with moderate success. They would have a yard and a dog, the American dream. Until it wasn’t. Aarti’s father was unknowingly implicated in a criminal investigation regarding money laundering of one of his customers. Embarrassed and with little understanding of the U.S. justice system he and his brother made a deal that would become the crux of their lives, affecting every member of their close knit family. With deep respect and affection, Aarti becomes their voice and leader. Learning that justice is not always just - even at the highest levels - she becomes an activist battling the systemic inequities throughout the U.S. immigration system. As hard and complicated as things become for her father,  Aarti never leaves his side, searching for a place he can finally call home. I could not put down this beautifully written memoir of a plucky, tenacious young woman who would do whatever it took keep her family together. Today Aarti Shahani is an award winning journalist at NPR. There is no doubt her father would be achingly proud. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Christmas with the Queen

No-one expected young Elizabeth to be the monarch so soon. But when her beloved father King George VI unexpectedly passes away, she becomes a 25 year old queen of seven independent Commonwealth countries. With Philip by her side she raises four children and lifts England out of the ashes of war. Her father’s famous Christmas Day speech must be given and the normally calm, assured Queen is a bundle of nerves. Christmas at Sandringham House is decorated to the nines and a few privileged journalists are invited to report on the royal holidays. Young Olive Carter has the opportunity of a lifetime. Her long standing nemesis has fallen ill and she will cover the events at the palace. Ready to make a name for herself and become more journalist than a secretary, Olive’s gregarious persona and a little luck set her directly in the Queen’s path. Meanwhile, the royal chefs are busy preparing a feast when Olive stumbles upon handsome Jack. Even though many years have passed these old friends still carry undeniable chemistry. Both in the middle of their own personal difficulties, Olive and Jack slowly rekindle their friendship while Olive remains tortured by the burning secret she carries. As these two worlds collide Olive and Jack consider their flourishing careers and discover new hope for the future.  Absolutely recommend this perfect holiday treat! ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Dominicana

In 1965 people would do anything to live and work in NYC. Life in Dominican Republic was in turmoil and getting worse every day. On the brink of political collapse the hardworking people in the countryside had no money and little hope for the future. Ana’s mother had a plan. If she could get Juan Ruiz to marry Ana in exchange for a parcel of their land, the entire family could eventually immigrate to the United States. Juan and his brothers were already traveling back and forth, working hard and investing their earnings as Santo Domingo grew more unstable. Twice her age, Juan was neither handsome nor charming and Ana dreaded the day her mother sent her away. Beautiful Ana, only 15 years old, did not speak a word of English nor had she ever been anywhere, ever. The sweetness Juan initially exudes quickly turns to impatience as he works two or three jobs and visits his mistress late at night, leaving Ana locked in their hot apartment bored and lonely. One day Juan announces he must travel for a few months, leaving Ana in the care of his youngest brother Cesar. As they get to know each other Ana sees a different side of NY. Visiting Coney Island, starting her own sandwich business and taking English lessons at the church, Ana is suddenly a butterfly coming out of her cocoon. Pressure mounts as her mother and siblings demand to join her while her heart is trapped in a loveless and often volatile marriage. A story of family struggles and misplaced loyalty, the pages turn quickly filled with latin rhythms and delicious foods that perfectly capture the immigrant experience. ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Infinite Country

When Elena goes to the market one day, Mauro helps her pick only the best from the enormous fruit stand, hence a sweet beginning of their young love story. Their lives are challenging right from the start. Having survived a rough upbringing, Mauro desires a family more than anything in the world. Elena’s strict home with her mother has the two sneaking around for months. When she becomes pregnant Mauro is determined to give them a better life. His plan is to leave their small village in Colombia where the economy is flailing and danger lurks on every corner. They make their way with their young daughter to the United States. Given a six month work visa, they are hoping to earn money and return to start their life anew with more than they could ever earn at home. It is easy to find the manual labor that no-one else wants to do. But Elena has another baby, Nando. He is now U.S. citizen. They are doing well but six months is not enough and with much angst and worry they overstay their visa. Making ends meet while sending money home to help Elena's poor mother, she becomes pregnant again. When Mauro is deported all the cards come tumbling down. Elena lives in daily fear of a knock at the door. Her focus is to give her children a better life, more opportunities. Things in Colombia have only gotten worse, people are shot down in the streets during broad daylight. Caught in a web of their own creation, Elena dreams of a place where her children can grow up safely and she can afford to feed them. Pretty basic. They didn’t climb mountains or or rivers or cross desserts to get to the U.S., they flew on a plane like thousands of people do every day. Now they are stuck between two unwelcoming worlds, not sure they will ever find home again. What would you do to save your family? ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Victim

We meet Javier Perez when he is a young boy scraping by in the Bronx. He recently witnessed his hustling drug dealing father gunned down in Puerto Rico. His persevering mother, inspired by the doctors who employ her, pushes Javi to excel in school and make something of himself. Living amidst gang activity, it is no surprise when Javi’s best friend Gio heads in the wrong direction and is imprisoned. At the same time, Javi’s school counselor encourages him to write an essay to win a full scholarship and attend a prestigious university. Is the essay embellished? Well, maybe a little but Javi is a good writer and knows how to pull on those diverse heartstrings. When he arrives at college Javi is not prepared for the world he encounters. He finds himself immersed with a group of students fighting for justice, particularly for POC (people of color). Most notably, he has a huge crush on Anais, a privileged student whose father is Puerto Rican. Although she hasn’t faced adversity in her own life (and never learned Spanish) Anais identifies with this struggling menagerie of students that demand equality. Javi is their perfect mouthpiece. He looks the part and has the street cred to prove it. Javi worms his way into the student newspaper and skillfully elaborates the minority struggle on campus. He may not always write the whole truth but justifies his newfound victimhood as speaking for those who have no voice. The deeper he falls into this persona the less guilt Javi feels when he embellishes his stories to fit the narrative of the day. This satire brims with provocative characters, each woven into the elaborate charade Javi has orchestrated. Original and deeply compelling, Victim challenges readers with its thought-provoking narrative and leaves us with important questions it boldly raises. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

The Sequel

Her famous husband Jacob Finch Bonner is dead. Now Anna Williams-Bonner surprisingly finds herself on a literary tour of her own, signing hundreds of books and answering questions about Jake’s suicide. She never desired fame and could have happily lived as the financially secure grieving widow everyone made her out to be. But there must be a touch of desire hidden in us all. When Anna is given the opportunity to attend a writers retreat, she cannot resist. In this coveted cabin in the woods a novel pours out of her and the publishers (Jake’s publishers) could not be happier to throw Anna on their gravy train. A great plan until Anna begins to receive excerpts from a novel she thought was destroyed. A story that could ruin them all. To make matters worse, these excerpts include backhanded threatening messages. Her brother is long gone and so is her husband. Anna’s past has been completely transformed. As the correspondence becomes unmanageable Anna sets out to learn who is behind this laser focused torment. Aptly named, this sequel to The Plot is a thriller like no other. Exceptionally well written - a book within a book within a book - it is filled with thrilling twists and turns as this mysterious woman uncovers the many layers of deception. It is a strange and wild ride to find yourself rooting for the villain. Note: You can absolutely read this sequel as a stand alone but most enjoyable to read The Plot first!! ⭐⭐⭐⭐

One-Star Romance

Natalie is a writer struggling to make ends meet. She works a multitude of jobs so that she could pay the bills while squeezing out spare moments to write. When her best friend/roommate Gabby gets engaged to Angus and quickly moves out, Natalie is concerned he may not be the right guy. At an engagement event she meets Rob, Angus’s best friend and humorless academic. Easy on the eyes, she considers a little harmless flirting and looks forward to seeing him at future wedding events. Natalie then pours her lonely heart into her writing and miracles do happen - her novel gets published. At the wedding, confident that her real career has finally begun, Natalie is excited to see Mr. Smarty Pants again.When she figures out that Rob left her a one star review on Goodreads, Natalie is consumed with rage. As the years pass through home celebrations, holidays and children, Natalie is brought into the fold of Gabby’s new family, which often includes Rob. Even though the chemistry between them is unavoidable the bitter truth slowly unravels. For me this story was less a romance and more about the evolution and meaning of female friendship as life changes. None of the characters were very likable and even though it was a quick read I was not invested in the outcome. It definitely deserves more than a one star, but the best I could offer is three. ⭐⭐⭐

Anyone But Her

Suzanne Parry was 14 years old in 1979. Life was relatively quiet in Denver. Her parents on again/off again marriage was on. Her younger brother adored her and her artsy mom Alex owned one of the coolest stores in Denver, Zoe’s Records. One day while her mom was working late, her store was robbed and she was tragically murdered. Nothing would ever be the same again. Suzanne had to look after Chris and ward off Peggy, the absolutely wrong woman who was vying to take her mother’s place in the family. Suzanne, always slightly clairvoyant, begins to see ghosts and sense their spirit. Finally, her mother comes to her. As mom-not-mom begins to lead her down a path of discovery, Suzanne can no longer ignore the terrifying truth. In 2004, Suzanne returns to Denver with her husband Brett and their two children. Her rebellious teenage daughter is resentful of the move while Austin struggles with behavioral issues. As Brett begins a new tech job, Suzanne recreates Zoe’s as an eclectic art emporium bringing part of her childhood and memories of her mother alive. But the ghosts will not remain at bay. Someone is following her, taunting her. The mysteries of their family are not fully resolved and Suzanne will do whatever it takes to protect her children from the past. Full of musical nostalgia, ghosts and family drama - this new fall release has it all. A quick page turner I could not put down! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Slow Dance

Fourteen years after high school graduation Shiloh and Cary, once the best of friends meet up at a wedding in Omaha. The third in their friend group, Mikey - who is now a successful artist - is getting married. At 33, Shiloh is a single mom of two adorable children and runs a children’s theater program nearby. Cary is a success in the Navy, his life going exactly as planned. What neither of them would admit is that all these years later their feelings have not changed and their hearts are full of longing for a love never realized. Always one moment away from each others arms, Shiloh and Cary spent years pushing romance away to protect their “friendship,” never realizing that is exactly the core of a happy marriage and generally what is missing from an unhappy one. The narrator swings back and forth recounting their high school memories playing video games, performing in school plays and helping each other survive their dysfunctional families. Then older, managing careers, romance and still - their dysfunctional families - all the while in and out of touch, forever wondering why they never get together. The memories are sweet young love between two kind of cute characters but for all the hype this Reese pick got, I was sorely disappointed. Extremely repetitive and absolutely nothing very interesting about either one of them except debilitating self doubt that continued on about 100 pages too long. Sad to say not my romance pick of the summer. ⭐⭐⭐

Here One Moment

The short flight from Hobart to Sidney wasn’t meant to be anything spectacular, but when an older tiny woman, begins to walk the isles setting out the fates of the passengers they collectively didn’t know whether to laugh or cry. “The Death Lady” as she became known strolled through the cabin and relayed to each person the age and cause of their death. Some people laughed with aplomb - Old Age, 103! - while others that will apparently expire at any moment in a tragic accident became extremely distraught. Since people naturally find comfort in numbers a handful of these people reconnect after the flight to determine who this fortune teller was and why would she randomly set out all of these predictions. When a few deaths become reality a social media page is created and the race in on to find this woman called Cherry and change fate before they are added to the growing list. In her easy, breezy Australian style, author Liane Moriarty gives the reader a peek into each of their lives and Cherry’s mysterious past. Although most believe - what will be, will be - the small changes they make in their daily lives to avoid her terrifying predictions can eventually affect the outcome - chaos theory, butterfly effect etc. This fascinating saga is filled with both statistical consequences and the mystery of life. Although this novel is possibly a bit too long and at times confusing with the many points of view (you just have to roll with it!) it comes together nicely and I thoroughly enjoyed it. ⭐⭐⭐⭐

James

Jim is enslaved on a plantation with his wife and daughter, whom he loves dearly. As he performs his many jobs for Miss Watson he overhears that he will be sold to a man in New Orleans. Devastated that he will be separated from his family, Jim decides to hide out on nearby Jackson Island until he can figure out what to do. At the same time, Huck Finn, a young man Miss Watson looks after, is terrified when his drunkard father returns to town. Faking his own death he tracks down Jim and insists they run off together. As the well known story goes, they travel down the Mississippi on a raft and canoe getting themselves in an out of all sorts of trouble. With a bounty on Jim’s head for murder, theft and kidnapping he is having a hard time figuring a way out of this mess. Ironically - and this story is filled with witty irony - Jim speaks beautifully and reads and writes better than most white folks. He hides his true self and acts the part speaking “slave language” and keeping his eyes on the ground. The promise of making their way to the free states so he can make money and eventually buy his wife and daughter keep hope alive. Along the way Huck, who has known Jim for his whole life, learns what friendship really means. No longer a children’s tale, this completely original novel of the classic Adventures of Huckleberry Finn is astounding. The same story told from a different voice becomes a powerful and historical retelling of the horrifying ignorance found in the antebellum south. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

When We Flew Away

When the Frank family relocated from Germany to the Netherlands in 1934 they truly believed it would save them. The country remained independent and neutral on all political and religious matters. But as Europe succumbed to the atrocities brought by Hitler and the Nazi’s there was no longer a safe place to be found. When We Flew Away reimagines Anne’s life prior to 1942, before they were forced into hiding. Before she wrote a diary that changed the way we see the world. Anne and her sister led a simple life with all the normal urgencies of a young girl trying to figure out what she likes and who she wants be. This outspoken young girl was often reprimanded in school for being a chatterbox, while she idolized and was jealous of her older sister, the model student. As the family watched their freedoms slowly disappear they clung to each other and a few friends that would help them organize the infamous attic where they would be concealed for two years. Appreciating the birds and the flowers and the feel of sunshine on your face, Anne describes the simple joys we take granted every day. I simply love author Alice Hoffman but I must admit this is a very YA book and although I often enjoy them this one did not capture my heart. It was a little repetitive and told by a narrator when as the reader I would’ve liked to imagine her thoughts first person. Maybe because I have been reading about the life of Anne Frank for my entire life, nothing will ever compare to her diary and actual words. ⭐⭐⭐

Maria

In 1959 Maria von Trapp marches into the infamous Lunt-Fontanne Theater. Yes, Maria von Trapp is an actual woman and she was angry. When Rogers & Hammerstein bought the rights to produce The Sound of Music from a German film company they used their artistic license to create the life they imagined for the family that escaped the Nazi’s and became a global singing sensation. But Maria lived this life. There were too many things that the play did not capture. Too many things their beautiful family had tragically lost. Always indefatigable, Maria meets with Fran, a secretary and writer who works for Hammerstein. The women walk through Central Park as Maria paints a picture of the magnificent hills of Austria and the family’s rise to fame. Born in 1905, Maria was orphaned at an early age and sent to live with an unkind uncle who terrified them all. Finally escaping to go to teachers college, Maria discovered her natural gift for music and singing. After her training she entered the Nonberg Abbey where she adored her students and was on her way to becoming a nun. Maria was finally at home, praying she would never be alone again. At 21 she received an opportunity to teach a sickly child, one of seven siblings at Baron von Trapp’s estate, and she accepted. Their father, the Baron, was 25 years her senior and his quiet house was still mourning the loss of their mother, the Baroness Agathe. Maria brought life and music back into their lives and well, the rest is history. I adored every single page of this amazing work of historical fiction. One of my all time favorite musicals, this new novel is an absolute joy and not to be missed. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

The God of the Woods

When counselor Louise awakens she finds one empty bunk in her cabin. Barbara Van Laar is missing and no-one has seen her in hours. From the moment Louise reports this startling news to the director, chaos ensues. Barbara’s family owns Camp Emerson and the magnificent land surrounding it. Set in the idyllic Adirondack mountains in August 1975, the fast paced mystery has begun. Leaders are gathered to form a search party. The authorities are alerted. Campers are frightened and eerily the town remembers when 14 years earlier, Barbara’s brother Bear disappeared in these same woods, never to be seen again. As each witness is questioned, the investigators appear to have motives and alibis of their own. Some were involved in the previous case, others fear retribution from this powerful family. Judy, a young female investigator (the only woman on the team) was recently promoted from state trooper. She is inexperienced but has an honest approach that surprises them all. A teenager from a wealthy family is missing. An old case is unofficially reopened. And apparently every single suspect has something to hide. This is a long read and you would never know it. The chapters are short and will have you on the edge of your lounger with twists and turns you never expected! A perfect summer thriller. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Behind Every Good Man

When Beverly Diamond surprises her husband at the office, she finds him and his secretary in a most compromising position. Devastated by his betrayal, his bags are packed and Larry finds himself on a friend’s couch before the day is over. Feeling embarrassed and confused Beverly doesn’t see many options as a woman in 1962. Although she was an excellent student, Beverly gave up college and career to be a homemaker, a perfect wife and mother to her two young children. Now in her late twenties, Beverly refuses to let this man ruin her future. She chooses to use the lessons she learned watching the repeated success of her politician father and strong, competent mother. Instead of feeling sorry for herself, Beverly realizes winning would be the sweetest revenge. As Larry runs the senatorial campaign of a two faced liar, Beverly weasels her way into the offices of an opponent. A young candidate named Michael Landau. He is smart, handsome and most importantly - breathtakingly honest. But Landau’s campaign has no money, no traction and very little direction. Well, she intends to change all that. Using every lesson and connection she has in her arsenal, Beverly turns the entire race upside down. Witty, fun and fast paced, this author once again brings us into the not so distant past when women looked the part but were not yet leading the way. They were entirely dependent on their husbands and the male counterparts of their families. The fight for independence and equality were hard won battles that are still in motion today. Do not miss this entertaining original novel and remember who you are when you vote this November. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Dixon, Descending

Dixon Bryant missed the Olympic track team trials by two-tenths of a second. He has spent his entire adult life trying to outrace his feelings of failure. Instead of relishing the memories of his many incredible record breaking events, he put all his energy into being the good boy, the rule following student, son and younger brother. Now, working as a middle school psychologist Dixon must often decide who he can save, which boys carry the possibility of rising above their circumstance. Nate is the older brother, a disarmingly handsome, charming, businessman searching for life’s meaning. He suggests the once athletic men, now middle aged, challenge themselves physically and mentally. Nate wants them to summit Mount Everest and become the first African American men to reach the top of the world. Hesitant at first, as soon preparations begin, they are hooked. Every waking moment becomes about the mountain and the arduous journey ahead. Frightened and excited, neither of the brothers is prepared for the choices they must make and living with the unknown future that lies ahead. A breathtaking, fascinating tale of mountaineering, family and racism. Not for the faint of heart, this unpredictable page turner is impossible to put down! ⭐⭐⭐⭐

The Lion Women of Tehran

Until 1953 Ellie lived with her mother and father in a beautiful home, located in an upscale part of Tehran. Self described as a descendent of royalty, Ellie’s mother was obsessed with their image and status. That all disappeared when Ellie’s father unexpectedly dies. They are left under the watchful eye of his brother who moves them to a small apartment on the wrong side of town. Innocently enough at seven years old, Ellie’s only dream is to meet one girl she can truly call a friend. When school begins she is introduced to Homa, an outspoken classmate who takes her under her wing. The girls become inseparable and Ellie takes great pleasure from Homa’s large bustling family and striking confidence. Later, when their circumstances dramatically change Ellie and Homa are separated and she is returned to the bourgeoisie society of her earlier days. When the friends reunite Ellie is mostly concerned with clothing, hairstyles and “netting” a husband. Homa, an outstanding and earnest student wants to study law and become a judge. As the two navigate the Shah’s regime from contrasting perspectives their friendship is not as simple as it once was. While Ellie has fallen in love and envisions a family, Homa’s involvement in a student communist group on campus endangers them all. This magnificent, beautifully written story of friendship, family and history is both heartbreaking and hopeful. All these years later the brutal struggle for women in pursuit of their rights for freedom in Tehran is ongoing. But they have not given up. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

If You See Them

One day Vicki’s son, Cam, brought home a girl from his highschool. He didn’t know her well but she was smart, living on her own and about to drop out of school in order to earn enough money to support herself. A caring person, Vicki had been volunteering and organizing hundreds of meals for Thanksgiving and Christmas through a local charity for years. But maybe that wasn’t enough. Vicki slowly learned there was a large population of “unaccompanied homeless youth” in their midst that slipped through the cracks of our society alone, terrified and hopeless. She learned that ONLY children “taken” from the home are considered for the foster care system, an agency most people believe ensure the well being of minors. Now she understood the homeless youth she identified do not qualify for any benefits. Vicki Sokolik, a resident of Tampa Florida founded a nonprofit called Starting Right, Now - later coined SRN. Once identified by school administration these teens can apply to be part of this incredible hands-on program where they receive guidance, mentorship and a roof over their heads. The goal is to aid these young people to lead productive, healthy lives and build a trustworthy the support system they never had. As Vicki details her experiences creating the organization and the obstacles they faced, she also highlights the many personal journeys of these teens. Some are shocking, all are heartbreaking. This incredible woman along with her team has led the path to great change in her community and legislature in the State of Florida. It is a shining example of what patience, perseverance and change can accomplish. Writing a check is appreciated but not always enough when the system is broken. Thank you Vicki, for opening my eyes. We can all be a part of the solution. Highly recommend this well written and necessary read. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

The Treason of Betsy Ross

As a teen Betsy Griscom follows her sister to the sewing shop where she spent her days. Without many options open to girls, and quite a talent with the needle, Betsy weaves her way to a position in the shop as well. The younger siblings at home keep her Quaker parents busy and they barely notice when Betsy brings home John Ross, a handsome young man she works beside. At first admitting they are only friends, Betsy fails to reveal John’s non-Quaker rebellious side and family ties to the Sons of Liberty. As violence in 1770 Philadelphia trickles down, Betsy can longer ignore the dangers of political unrest and what it means to be married to a militia man. She cannot no longer abide to the Quaker vow of nonviolence when their lives and that of their future children are at stake. Secretly helping John in any way she can Betsy is drawn closer and closer to the upheaval of this new American society and the future of an independent America. Fascinating historical detail of Philadelphia and the looming Revolutionary War, these turbulent times had many unsung heroes. Reflecting on what it meant to be patriot, the well known Betsy Ross was a brave feminist way ahead of her time. ⭐⭐⭐

A Girl Called Samson

During the period of the American Revolution women were rarely seen and never heard. They generally did not attend school, could not own land and would never dream of being a soldier. In 1760 Deborah Samson was born. She is only a young girl when her no-good father abandons his five children and her mother has no choice but to send Deborah out as an indentured servant. But Deborah is lucky in her own way. She was taught to read and write at a young age and she was bestowed upon a kind family. The Thomas family has ten boys that teach Deborah to be tough and fast and competitive. She is not like other girls. As the war descends upon Massachusetts the boys go off, one by one to join. Deborah is a plain girl. She is tall, smart, athletic and able. It does not take long for Deborah to quietly change her appearance enough to pass as “Rob”, a 16 year old boy who will follow the brothers to war. Half the battle is keeping her secret, the other half is filled with all the things with which she excels. Deborah is smart and fearless. Behaviors that may have brought unwanted attention to her are masked by her bravery, loyalty and gumption. As her natural abilities become well known she is offered the coveted position of aide de camp to a kind and powerful general. With a surprising twist she falls in love with this man. Knowing that this is loosely based on a true story simply takes my breath away. Deborah Samson is an unknown in our history books and although this was fictionalized for our reading pleasure, I devoured this well written incredible story. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Love Letters to a Serial Killer

Hannah is adrift. Her job at a non-profit is going nowhere and she spends most of her time pining for men who never reciprocate. Hannah desperately wants to be in love and escape her mediocre family, her dead end job and the painful solitude of the studio apartment she can barely afford. On the wrong side of thirty, she is starting to think her window of opportunity has closed. Everything changes when she becomes obsessed with an online forum that is following the case of a serial killer accused of brutally murdering multiple women in Georgia. His name is William. He is a lawyer from a wealthy family and decidedly handsome. While William is in jail awaiting trial Hannah cannot stop thinking about the case, about William, and she writes him a letter. Not expecting a response, Hannah is shocked when William sends a friendly and rather flirty reply. They become penpals. Although Hannah believes he is guilty she learns all about his life and her feelings become magnified when William wants to know about hers. No-one has ever given Hannah this kind of attention and she is quickly drawn into his world. The trial is approaching and Hannah drives across the country to attend. She meets his family, she meets other women obsessed with the case and together they await the verdict. Hannah must be crazy, right? What kind of person would fall in love a serial killer? Filled with completely unexpected twists and turns, this fast paced insanity was absolutely unputdownable. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

The Goddess of Warsaw

Lena Browning is a legendary actress. A Hollywood icon. Now in the last years of her life she wishes to come full circle. Her plan begins by sharing her life story with a young, popular actress who can easily play the role. As Lena flashes back to the early 1940’s she describes in detail her life as Bina Blonski, a beautiful blonde Jewish actress who has been thrown into the Warsaw ghetto by the Nazis. Her mother, father and sister - all killed. Her husband is a mild mannered journalist who is determined to record what is happening, while his brother Aleksandr and Bina want to fight back. They will save as many Jews as possible and are willing to kill when necessary. Bina’s Aryan looks and theatrical skills allow her to infiltrate the outside world. She arranges weapons and supplies for the small group of resistance fighters she has joined. When her husband is taken from the ghetto Bina acts on her hidden lustful feelings for Aleksandr. And then everything falls apart. Bina escapes and does whatever it takes to survive. Landing in Hollywood with a new identity Bina (Lena) spends her life in the spotlight using her money and fame to target Nazis who escaped unpunished after the war living lives they did not deserve. While the novel is fast-paced and an absolute page-turner, I found some of the romantic gestures to be a bit unrealistic and unnecessary. Nonetheless, the story is filled with many unexpected twists. If you're looking for a Holocaust story, I highly recommend it. Personally, I need a break from this genre for a while, but my mother-in-law thought it was riveting. ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Summer Romance

Two years ago Ali’s mom sadly passed away. They were extremely close and Ali still finds herself locked in the car asking for advice. More concerning is that her mother answers. Then her husband announces he wants a divorce. This professional organizer and mother of two falls into a deep funk that she cannot climb out of. Keeping herself busy in the small town she grew up in creates an illusion making the days go quicker - but to what end? As summer approaches Ali wants to fix up more than her pantry, she wants to organize her life and start over again. In walks Ethan, or rather in rolls Scooter. (picture actor Adam Demos from Netflix Sex/Life on a skateboard) The once scrawny teenage brother of her best friend throws Ali for a loop de loop. Scooter has grown up and this devastatingly handsome, kind and sexy man may be just the fling to spice up her summer. As she and her ex work their way through a painful mediation juggling the needs and emotions of their kids, Ali must learn to manage the feelings unexpectedly bursting in her heart. Ethan is supposed to leave at the end of the summer. He has a home, career and people depending on him. But a four hour commute seems impossible and Ali fears she may lose her opportunity for a happy future. As cute, witty, sexy and well written as Nora Goes off Script, Summer Romance is the PERFECT read for the beach this summer! You will love every single minute of it! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Funny Story

Peter and Daphne had every detail of their wedding all planned. They moved back to Peter’s quaint Michigan hometown of Waning Bay, into the most adorable starter home. Peter’s lifelong friends and family were an instantly filled social calendar and Daphne loved her perfect job at the local library. Too good to be true? Well, its a not so funny story what happens next. All plans and their future implode when Peter reconnects with his gorgeous childhood friend Petra and dumps Daphne for the future wife he was meant to have. Completely devastated, Petra’s ex offers Daphne a room to rent. Miles is extremely handsome, in a disheveled tattooed bar tender sort of way, not her type at all. To Daphne’s surprise Miles turns out to be an excellent listener and kind soul. Their friendship blossoms and begins to fill the empty void Daphne has fallen into. When she accidentally lets it slip to Peter that she is dating Miles, simply to make him jealous, the young couple starts to enjoy the fake thing a little too much. Trying hard to enjoy their new friendship and avoid their mind blowing physical chemistry is harder than either of them ever imagined. As Daphne listens to her heart she begins to see a bright future of her own making. This latest romance by Emily Henry is too perfect. It is so rare to love every single character - I would not change a single thing. Five summer stars! Throw this one in your beach bag today!! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Look For Me There

In 2008 when Tim Russert passed away, America mourned a beloved journalist whom for many represented the best American television political moderator we had ever seen. Luke Russert lost his dad; the man who he loved and admired more than anyone in the world. He also lost confidence in his future and what that represented. His mother, Maureen Orth, also a successful journalist, encouraged him to explore the world. Her early peace corp experiences and deep belief in god shaped her views and aspirations, she hoped it would be the same for her son. But as his journey around the globe challenged him, and according to his mother - went on for much longer than necessary - Luke became desperately lonely and fell into an abyss of grief. Without his father there to cheer him on through life, experiences felt pointless. Luke tried his best to see people through his father’s charitable eyes, Tim had always seen the glass half full. But Luke had a hard time finding his own inner voice. At first this memoir reads like a travel journal or diary of sorts, but as Luke learns more about both his parents lives he begins to grow in ways he never imagined. Facing fears, living with loss and finding faith. Three lessons we all must learn. ⭐⭐⭐

Every Time I Go on Vacation, Someone Dies

Eleanor Dash is on an Italian book tour. She has written a series of bestsellers and her fans simply cannot get enough of these vacation mysteries - and the real life detective that costars throughout. Problem is, Connor Smith is real and Eleanor wishes he was fictional. This handsome con man she met a decade earlier when she was young, naive and thought she was in love. He embroiled Eleanor is an unexpected situation where they ultimately solved a bank heist, Connor received the reward money and dropped her like a hot potato. When Eleanor returned home she poured her broken heart out into her first novel, a mystery about a bank heist in Italy. Connor was quick to blackmail Eleanor for using his character and much to her chagrin has immersed himself in her life and career ever since. Each day as the book tour continues mysterious accidents and clues can no longer be ignored. Apparently someone is trying to kill Connor, or is it Eleanor? Afraid and feeling alone in the crowd this quick witted author tries to solve her own murder mystery. With many of the characters having serious motive this fast paced comedy/cozy becomes a series of mishaps and adventures leading the reader to solve the case! Clever, fun and filled with laugh out loud moments, this is the perfect light beach read for the summer! ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Love at First Book

Leaving or rather escaping the quiet of Martha’s Vineyard is something Emily Allen has finally found the courage to do. Although she equally adores her job at the library and her best friend Sam, her mother’s erratic and abusive behavior has ran its course. Emily gets a job as an assistant for her all time favorite author, Siobhan (pronounce Shi-vawn) Riordan who lives in a quaint village in Ireland. A dream come true, Emily packs her bags. She rents a lovely cottage and also works part time at The Last Chapter, a idyllic bookshop in the center of town. The shop owner and new boss happens to be the son of Siobhan. Kieran Murphy also happens to be the most handsome guy she has ever laid eyes on. As Emily learns the local speak and merits of a good whiskey Kieran begins to grow on her. The surly boss man has a soft spot for literature lovers and red heads giving Emily a grand start in the right direction. Their relationship is as impossible to keep secret in this small town as is Siobhan’s cancer which is back with a vengeance. Her dying wish is to finish the book series that has been on hiatus for a decade. As this latest chapter in Emily’s life is turned upside down there is only one solution. Filled with family, love and books, books and more books. This delightful story is simply unputdownable and I loved every minute of it! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Walking with Sam

As a younger man Andrew McCarthy who was going through some troubling times completed an extraordinary adventure - the 500 mile trek across Spain’s Camino de Santiago. This legendary pilgrimage, rich in medieval history, leads its travelers to the Cathedral in the Galicia region of northwest Spain. He dreamed of returning and from the moment Andrew’s first son Sam began to walk he hoped someday they could accomplish this journey together. At 19, Sam was finally ready. The duo set off on this remarkable pilgrimage which promised to be both daunting and fulfilling. Walking stick in hand, they head out into the long, quiet, arduous task of walking. Essentially off the grid with heavy packs on their backs they fall into a rhythm of walking, eating and sleeping in small villages with only the barest necessities. They meet an array of eclectic fellow pilgrims, some that accompany them to their final destination. When work and every day life is put aside and weeks of open road lie ahead conversations meander from one extreme to the other; the zombie apocalypse to music and painful memories of divorce. Trying to connect with your adult offspring can be a challenge as we face the speed with which we are losing them to the world. Accepting your children are independent of you, your choices and expectations while endlessly encouraging them to be brave and confident is probably the hardest job in the world. Andrew’s memoir of his walk with Sam is filled with love and patience, blisters and disagreements. Perfect book to celebrate Father’s Day, I simply adored every single chapter and have already told my grown son all about it. Thats a start. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

The Wedding People

When Phoebe enters the crowded lobby at the infamous Cornwall Inn of Newport RI, she is wearing a beautiful green dress and carries no luggage. Phoebe, a literature professor from St. Louis, booked an ocean view suite for this auspicious occasion. To be alone and mourn the husband she lost and life that is no longer attainable. As she carefully observes the lobby Phoebe realizes these guests are attending a wedding. In fact, she is the only non wedding guest in the hotel. Alone in the elevator, Phoebe and Lila, the beautiful bride, strike up an unlikely friendship, confiding things in each other they probably shouldn’t be saying out loud. Before she knows it Phoebe is spending the week with “the wedding people” who are mostly named Jim and more wrapped up in themselves than to bother asking why this stranger is at the wedding. While helping Lila have “the most amazing wedding week ever” Phoebe reflects on the dissolution of her own marriage and the devastating betrayal of the man she loved. As she remembers the painful IVF failures and the family she will never have she closely watches Lila and sees the pain beneath the glitz and glamour; a difficult eccentric mother, the devastating loss of her father and the fact she is marrying a perfect man whom she may not actually love. As the two women share their lives and experiences with each other they are able to honestly face their true selves in the mirror. A million dollar wedding week filled with outrageous characters, dark humor and the ultimate search for the meaning of life. This was a unique, well written, captivating story. What is really interesting to note is that at 50% I was not completely hooked, even considered putting this down! But it pulled me back in and got progressively better. This never happens! I am so glad I finished and wound up loving it. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

It. Goes. So. Fast.

From the moment we become parents there is another life completely dependent on our constant care and nurturing. Everything else becomes secondary. On the same note as the tables turn and we age our own parents may need assistance. Those days too are cherished and counted. The circle of life described in this memoir by well known NPR journalist Mary Louise Kelly is loving and thought provoking. Having spent years reporting on war, interviewing politicians and the people affected around the world, Mary decides to take time off to be more present for her older son’s last year of high school before he leaves the nest. Diving deep into the memories of early parenting while reflecting on the painful recent loss of her beloved father - while the actual world feels like it is falling apart - is hard and exhausting. With honesty, love and humor Mary Kelly shares some of her most private thoughts about motherhood, marriage and the relevance of a professional woman in midlife. Change is inevitable but it is not always easy. The invaluable lesson that time is our greatest asset is a constant reminder to live your best life. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

The Wives

Leaving New York City is never easy. Simone had an editing job she loved, a great group of friends and - in the city that never sleeps - always something to do. Soon after she gets married, Andrew joins an elite Army unit and the young couple relocate to Columbus, Georgia. A very very tiny town with an army base and little else. Andrew and Simone grew up together in California. Their relationship is strong and their love runs deep. But as any young couple may struggle, they have a hard time figuring how they can both follow their dreams and remain supportive of each other. Feeling the stress of loneliness and financial instability, Simone’s real test arrives - Andrew is finally deployed. Paralyzed by this deep rooted fear is something Simone had never experienced before. It takes a village - or rather “The Wives” - as she names the other women she meets - to make this transition to army wife. An intelligent, voracious reader Simone had always been a pacifist. The pervasive questions she continuously asks Andrew, her peers and herself are the difficult ones. Simone wants to understand where Andrew’s unflinching and real desire to risk his life and fight for his country comes from. She slowly learns how the army works and the lingo they use to pacify worried wives while their husbands are deployed. As the more experienced wives help her through the difficult early days Simone learns the meaning of true friendship and camaraderie. She and Andrew find their way through the complicated maze of military life with a few bumps and bruises but this memoir shines as a testament to faith, hope and family. I was mesmerized by Simone’s story. She is an excellent writer and captured my imagination and my heart. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

The Paradise Problem

Marrying West Weston may or may not have been the greatest plan. But Anna Green needed student housing at UCLA and West found a great deal in subsidized family dorms. At the time it seemed like a win-win. Anna and West were excellent roommates, stayed out of each other’s way, their paths barely crossing. He was an introverted intellect finishing grad school and Anna, an eclectic party girl with pink hair who ultimately dropped pre-med for life as a starving artist. One small hitch to the hitch. Anna wasn’t much for details and she barely glanced at the documents West had her sign. Three years later, long after they went their separate ways, West appears at Anna’s door. Now a Stanford professor and more handsome than ever, West is trying to protect his inheritance from the Weston empire (i.e. crazy family) and he makes Anna an offer she once again cannot refuse. $100,000 to accompany him to a remote island celebration for his sisters high profile society wedding. Oh, and by the way, they are still legally married. Shocked but in desperate need of cash, Anna agrees. The young couple begin a two-week whirlwind adventure with the Weston clan to show the family just how married and in love they still are. A breathtaking setting and real/hot fake/marriage make this the absolute steamiest beach read of the summer. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Swap and Smell the Roses

Swapping homes with her best friend sounded like a good idea but when Willow, a city girl through and through, arrives in the Connecticut countryside she has a rude awakening. Or rather is locked out of the cottage and comes face to face with the rudest and hottest landlord she has ever met. Willow quickly realizes she has got to get on Reid’s good side or  the next two months are going to be a disaster. But things only get worse. The cottage floods and Willow must temporarily move in with the gorgeous grump. She gets a part time job at the local bakery which ignites friendship and a much better outlook on the summer. Willow has put her dream as a singer/musician aside and as painful as it may be the bakery is the perfect place to keep her mind occupied. When Willow and Reid realize that their chemistry is off the charts they are too busy hiding behind their fears to face the truth about each other and their dreams. Adorable, fast paced and a little steamy, this romcom had an idyllic setting and sweet romance. ⭐️⭐️⭐️

Things I Wish I Told My Mother

Laurie is in the middle of the biggest presentation of her career when she gets the call. Her mother, the famous OB/GYN “Dr. Liz”, is in the hospital - as a patient. Laurie races to her side to discover that her mother had an unexplained cardiac episode and is presently arguing with everyone and anyone, refusing further testing. To get her mind off the stressful situation Laurie suggests she slow down and promises they can plan a getaway together when she feels better. What began as a way to get her mother’s mind off her troubles leads to the planning and plotting of a questionable adventure. The mother daughter duo, who don’t always get along,  head off to Paris and then Norway, where Liz was raised and has a sister she’s mysteriously not seen in 50 years. Widowed from an adoring husband, Liz is a beautiful, successful headstrong woman who is loved by all her patients but has never made Laurie feel anything other than intimidated. As they peruse the finest hotels, restaurants and shops in Paris the women get along much better than expected. With time and patience Laurie begins to discover a different side from the perfectionist authority she always felt distant from. With each new day their journey becomes much more than a shopping extravaganza. Laurie delves into questions she never dreamed she’d have the opportunity to ask. As the mystery of her mother’s past unravels Laurie receives answers that change her life forever. This was a heartfelt read filled with fun banter and threaded with a much deeper meaning as Laurie realizes she has carried these old hurts and misconceptions through her whole life. Every day is a precious gift not to be wasted and everyone has their own story to share. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

My Side of the River

Although she was born in Tuscon, Arizona, Elizabeth always struggled to feel truly at home in America. Her parents had visas which allowed them to work and stay temporarily in the US but when she and her brother Fernando were born it complicated matters significantly. Her parents dreamed of giving their children an education that they could not get in Mexico. Always scrambling financially they worked long hard hours under the radar doing all the jobs no-one else wanted to do, never accepting government benefits for fear of being deported. At a young age Elizabeth was already a curious and intelligent student. She took to heart her mother’s constant whispers - “to succeed in America, you have to be the best.”  At 15, a miscalculated move left her parents in Mexico, their visa renewal denied indefinitely. Her brother was 8 and remained in their care. Elizabeth, now a top student and mature for her age found a way to stay with a teacher’s family and finish highschool. This girl did not miss a beat. Overcoming severe poverty and sleeping on a strangers couch for years, Elizabeth persevered. She remained Valedictorian, was accepted to a multitude of top colleges and participated in many clubs and activities. It was not easy for this teenager to face the world alone, adding on to the guilt that her brother whom she adored, was growing up without her guidance. This memoir is a beautiful testament to the strength of family. It is also a reflection of our broken immigration policies that often separates loved ones, using these migrant workers and then throwing them away. Elizabeth is a success story but it is clear many are not as lucky. This memoir was fascinating and insightful, offering a glimpse into new perspectives. One of the greatest rewards of reading is nurturing empathy. Keep reading. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️