Scritch Scratch

Posted on September 3, 2020 by Ariesgrl

By: Lindsay Currie

Claire is a scientist. All she wants to do is focus on the science fair project with her best friend and ignore how her father is so completely obsessed with ghosts. Yet, when he needs her help, Claire participates in his ghost tour, reluctantly… That night she sees a young boy on the bus. A boy that no one else sees and one who vanishes, just as quickly as he appeared. In the days that follow, Claire experiences terrifying things and has to accept the fact that she is being haunted by a ghost. Will Claire be able to make the ghost vanish from her life or will she forever be spending the nights locked on her closet, afraid for her life?

Lindsay Currie crafts an amazing, creepy tale filled with important life lessons. Through the eyes of a scared girl, determined to logically explain everything, readers will learn appearances are not always what they seem. Readers will see the value of friendship and the importance of remembering the past. Just in time for fall, families will enjoy reading this book with a good cup of hot chocolate.

This was my first read by Lindsay Currie and it was incredible. I am normally not a fan of spooky stories, unless I am in the mood to be scared. I was not expecting the level of spooky, and definitely had goosebumps. However, it was the ending and the powerful message that I thoroughly appreciated. We should all remember the past, as well as not judge people by their appearances. This book is a definite must-read for families.

Note:

I signed up to honestly review this book, via Netgalley.

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Make Mine a Cowboy

Posted on August 25, 2020 by Ariesgrl

(Meadow Valley #2)

By: A. J. Pine

Ben Callahan just got a second chance on life and he wants to take full advantage. He wants to be a settled down, family man, despite everyone else having doubts. When the woman of his dreams comes back into town, he will do anything to prove he is a changed man. Dr. Charlotte North raced back to Meadow Valley just to take care of her grandmother, and she has no time for fun or romance. However, when her grandmother tries to set her up on a long line of mystery dates, Charlotte calls Ben to ask for a huge favor… a fake relationship. Will putting on a show, make these two realize their true feelings? Or will past decisions continue to haunt them?

This is an adorable story that will have readers cheering Ben on, from the very first page. Readers will appreciate seeing all the town’s characters, as well as catching up with Sam and Delaney. Ben’s story is one of hope, which this world needs more of, right now. A. J. Pine does a fantastic job of giving her characters depth and placing them in real life situations. Meadow Valley provides the perfect vacation spot for all to enjoy.

As you may remember, a few months ago, I read the first book in the series and fell in love with all of the characters. This book was the same way. Sadly, it looks like we will all have to wait a whole year, before we get the chance to read Colt’s story, but at least we can add it to our wish lists, now! This author is a definite must-read, if you like small town romances, with deep family storylines.

Notes:

I signed up to honestly review this book via Netgalley.

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My Boys

Posted on August 16, 2020 by Ariesgrl

So this post is beyond difficult to write. If you follow me on social media, then you already know… however for those that don’t, I know I need to share on here.

Last week, exactly 365 days after his brother gained his Angel Wings, my Ozzy, decided it was time he had his own set. As you know, his brother Jagger was my lovely assistant, always by my side as I worked. Ozzy, though, Ozzy hated the computer. That or he just felt he knew how to use it better than me, which is probably more true. He would walk across the keyboard or lay so I couldn’t reach it.

When it came to books, though, Ozzy loved them in all formats. He had his favorite narrators of audiobooks, and would curl up next to my neck, with his head under my ear to listen with me. He had a niche that he snuggled up in, while I read books in hardcover or paperback. If it was a long night, and I pulled up an e-book, he would settle in and rest. He enjoyed our book time. He will always be my baby boy.

My boys together are a force of nature. The two of them may have been tiny in size, but they have left a massive crater in my heart. I am grateful that they are reunited and running carefree. I know they are watching over Mom and I, as we try and navigate each new day.

I will be catching up on all my reviews, starting tomorrow. But please keep in mind, even reading is something I am forcing, right now. Nothing is coming naturally.

To help, give me some recommendations of books that grabbed you from the very first page.

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Cover Reveal!

Posted on August 12, 2020 by Ariesgrl
March 9, 2021

Here it is! I am so excited to share the cover for Surviving Savannah by New York Times bestselling author Patti Callahan, on sale March 9, 2021. It’s inspired by the true and forgotten story of the sinking of the “Titanic of the South” #survivingsavannah #patticallahan Pre-order it here: https://bit.ly/3i9VQ4Y Visit Patti online: https://www.patticallahanhenry.com/surviving-savannah 

About the book

New York Times bestselling author Patti Callahan delivers a breathtaking novel based on true events.
It was called “The Titanic of the South”—the luxury steamship that sank in 1838 with Savannah’s elite on board. Through time, their fates were forgotten—until the wreck was found.

Now their story is finally being told.

When Savannah history professor Everly Winthrop is asked to guest-curate a new museum collection focusing on artifacts recovered from the steamship Pulaski, she’s shocked. The ship sank after a boiler explosion in 1838, and the wreckage was just discovered, 180 years later. Everly can’t resist the opportunity to try to solve some of the mysteries and myths surrounding the devastating night of its sinking.

Everly’s research leads her to the astounding history of a family of eleven who boarded the Pulaski together, and the extraordinary stories of two women from this family: a known survivor, Augusta Longstreet, and her niece, Lilly Forsyth, who, along with her child, was never found. The women were part of Savannah society, but when the ship exploded, each was faced with difficult and heartbreaking decisions. This is a moving and powerful exploration of what women will do to endure in the face of tragedy, the role fate plays, and the myriad ways we survive the surviving.

Perfect for fans of Before We Were Yours, Sold on a Monday, and Orphan Train, Callahan’s highly anticipated novel tells the story of a little known chapter of history that has long deserved a spotlight. This transformative tale told from alternating past and present perspectives will sweep readers away and move them to their core.

Advance Digital Copy Giveaways

You can enter for a chance to win an advanced digital review copy of the book here: https://sweeps.penguinrandomhouse.com/enter/surviving-savannah-cover-reveal-sweeps

(NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. US Residents, 18+. Ends August 17, 2020. See official rules at official website.)

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Stitching A Life

Posted on July 19, 2020 by Ariesgrl

(An Immigration Story)

By: Mary Helen Fein

Hinde is a young girl growing up in Lithuania, trying to hide her brother before he is drafted into the military. Their father heads to America and saves up money to buy a ticket for Hinde to join him. As they both work hard, and earn money, they are able to send for more family members. Will Hinde and her family be completely reunited and live the American Dream?

Hinde is a remarkable character. She is strong and brave and someone young readers will admire. The author demonstrates the values of family, love, hard work, faith, and dedication.

I love historical fiction novels based on real events/people. I also enjoy learning about different lands and cultures. Lithuania is not a common setting for me. This book is based on the life of the author’s grandmother. I find books that are written for young adults, tend to be more open to deeper subjects of discrimination and life’s hardships. YA historical fiction allows for the whole family to read a book and have deep conversations. This story of one family’s journey to America is a definite must read this summer.

Notes:

Thanks to Tabitha at Spark Point Studio for sending me an advanced copy.

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Fast Girls

Posted on July 13, 2020 by Ariesgrl

A Novel of the 1936 Women’s Olympic Team

By: Elise Hooper

The year was 1936 and the games are held in Nazi Germany. Even more nerve-wracking this was the first year for integrated women’s competitions. Three brave women from very different backgrounds hope to compete in the 1936 Olympics. Betty Robinson came back a hero from the ’28 games, but almost lost her life in a crash. Louise Stokes hopes to prove to the world that she can win, while Helen Stephens never dreamed the Olympics would be a possibility.

We may not be able to enjoy the Olympics this year, but for us fans, we can dive back into history with this fascinating book. Whereas The Boys in the Boat and The Three-Year Swim Club are nonfiction reads, this book is historical fiction. This is a wonderful book that readers will absorb into their souls. Readers will want to do research on these three remarkable women after reading this book. These brave women overcame horrific obstacles and discriminations while becoming Olympic icons.

Notes:

My review first appeared in the June 2020 issue of Sasee Magazine.

I signed up to honestly review this book, via the publicist, Madison at Booksparks.

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First Day

Posted on June 28, 2020 by Ariesgrl

Hi Everyone,

I hope you all have been staying safe and reading great books.

For a little over a year, I have been working three jobs, which was great, but my days could be anywhere from 330am to midnight. Over these last few months, the schedule was even weirder as hours were shortened or places were closed, and I picked up as many hours as possible at other jobs.

This week, all that has changed… I started a new job. One with set hours, one indoors, one where I will be home at a decent hour and on weekends.

Which means, I get more quality time with my family, and Ozzy and I get our Sunday reading days back. (I expect the first couple to be reading/napping days, but hey it still counts.)

I am so excited about this new adventure and even more excited about spending good quality time with my family. Bonus, is truly getting back to reading. Tomorrow, I will be posting a picture for you all to vote on my next read.

In the meantime, tell me what you are reading? Oz and I are finishing Wonder by Palacio, for book club.

Happy Reading,

~Ariesgrl

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My One and Only Cowboy

Posted on May 30, 2020 by Ariesgrl

(Meadow Valley #1)

By: A. J. Pine

Sam, his brother Ben, and their friend Colt, are just starting out with their Meadow Valley Ranch. They have a few guests, but they are hoping business will increase with word of mouth. However, when an unexpected woman shows up and tells Sam that the land he bought, years ago, was illegally sold, everything he has worked for is in jeopardy. Delaney’s car breaks down and she realizes she is stuck at this ranch, on what was still her property, for at least a week, while the town celebrates Autumn. Will these two determined souls be able to find a way to accomplish their dreams? Or will the desired land keep them both in agony?

A. J. Pine gives readers a very cute romance story. The main couple are driven not only by their individual pasts, but also by unknown future forces. The romance builds quickly, as well as the individual growth. Cowboys, firefighters, and animals are set in a small-town, so there is something for every type of romance fan. Readers will be excited to read Ben’s story this Fall, and hopefully Colt’s story next year.

In the midst of reading thoughts:

I haven’t read anything at all involving Alzheimer’s Disease in the past several years. So when I stumbled upon that unexpected storyline, it took me by surprise. That subject matter hits far too close to home and my heart still has not recovered. However, I continued reading. I appreciate the fact that A. J. Pine did not highlight the illness with the ‘sunshine and roses’ effect. She also did not go too deep in the topic either. The fear, constant worry, and just wondering are all very real emotions, and I appreciated her displaying that to readers. I surprised myself by adding book 2 to my wish list, as soon as I finished reading.

Note:

Thanks to Forever Publishing for making this story available to read on Netgalley.

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Kristy Woodson Harvey Live

Posted on May 1, 2020 by Ariesgrl

Tonight, at 7, tune into my Facebook page to see Kristy Woodson Harvey. She will be answering readers’ questions and more. You might even see a special guest or two.

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Hometown Hero

Posted on April 21, 2020 by Ariesgrl

(Silverlake Ranch #3)

By: Liza Kendall

To Be Released: June 30, 2020

Mia and Ace hated each other as kids. Ace lost everything as a child, so Mia’s father took him in under his wing, causing Mia to be left behind. Years later, they are reunited due to Ace’s trouble making skills. Mia is forced to reckon with her past and justify the man she now knows with the boy from her childhood. Will they be able to set aside their differences and form a meaningful relationship? Or will the blind spots from their past keep them from ever becoming friends much less more?

Liza Kendall does a good job blending in cowboys, small-town and sports into one romantic story. This a very cute read and a very quick read. (I finished it in a day.) Readers of sweet romance will want to make note of this author. This was the third book in a series and I do feel like I if I had read the previous two, I may have had a better understanding of the minor characters. This is my first time reading a Liza Kendall book, and I enjoyed the main characters’ development. I look forward to reading the next book, because I want to know more about the older brother. Some phrases were a bit repetitive and there are some scenes that were overly cute. Overall this is a PG romance that gives readers a romantic escape to Silverlake Ranch.

To purchase a copy, via your Independent Bookstore, click here.

Notes:

I signed up to review an advanced copy via Netgalley.

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