Waiting On Wednesday .... The Husbands

Waiting On Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Jill at Breaking The Spine that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

This week's pick is The Husbands by Chandler Baker

Here is the Goodreads synopsis

From the New York Times bestselling author of Whisper Network comes a novel that asks: to what lengths will a woman go for a little more help from her husband?

Nora Spangler is a successful attorney, but when it comes to domestic life, she finds she’s always the one doing more. She packs the lunches, schedules the doctor appointments, knows where the extra paper towel rolls are, and designs and orders the holiday cards. Her husband works hard, too…but why does it seem like she is always working so much harder?

The Spanglers go house hunting in Dynasty Ranch, a nice suburban neighborhood where Nora meets a group of high-powered women—a tech CEO, a neurosurgeon, an award-winning therapist, a bestselling author—with enviably supportive husbands. When she agrees to help with a resident’s gruesome wrongful death case, she delves into the lives of the women there. She finds the air is different in Dynasty Ranch. The women aren’t hanging on by a thread.

They swear by an unorthodox method of couples’ therapy that has transformed their relationships. Even as she fears digging up the secrets at the heart of her own marriage, Nora is tantalized by the possibility of a life that’s under control. The men seem strange. But maybe they’re just evolved. Soon Nora is relishing that her husband now shoulders half the load at home. But something is deeply wrong in Dynasty Ranch. As the case unravels, Nora uncovers a plot that may explain the secret to having-it-all. One that’s worth killing for.

Smart, sharp, and timely, this novel imagines a world where the burden of the “second shift” is equally shared – and what it might take to get there.

I enjoyed the pervious books by Chandler Baker that I have read so I was intrigued when I read the synopsis for this. It seems like a worthy follow up to the Whisper Network and a sure fire hit come next beach read season.

This doesn't come out until next summer but it'll be something to look forward as we spend what is sure to be a very strange winter.

Expected release date - June 29, 2021

Grown by Tiffany D Jackson

Grown by Tiffany D Jackson

Release Date - September 15, 2020

Publisher Website - Harper Collins
Publisher Social Media - Twitter/Facebook/SavvyReader/Frenzy

Pages - 384 pages
My Rating - 5/5
**received for an honest review from the publisher**

Here is the Goodreads synopsis

Korey Fields is dead.

When Enchanted Jones wakes with blood on her hands and zero memory of the previous night, no one—the police and Korey’s fans included—has more questions than she does. All she really knows is that this isn't how things are supposed to be. Korey was Enchanted’s ticket to stardom.

Before there was a dead body, Enchanted was an aspiring singer, struggling with her tight knit family’s recent move to the suburbs while trying to find her place as the lone Black girl in high school. But then legendary R&B artist Korey Fields spots her at an audition. And suddenly her dream of being a professional singer takes flight.

Enchanted is dazzled by Korey’s luxurious life but soon her dream turns into a nightmare. Behind Korey’s charm and star power hides a dark side, one that wants to control her every move, with rage and consequences. Except now he’s dead and the police are at the door. Who killed Korey Fields?

All signs point to Enchanted. 

I knew I wanted to read Grown the instant I read the synopsis. A murder mystery always piques my interest and even more so when it has something else folded into it. This combines a harrowing story of an abusive relationship with a very satisfying mystery to create a compulsively readable book.

The first thing that I need to discuss is the writing. It is executed in such a way that makes the pacing flow really smoothly. The reader is invested in the story from the beginning because of the way everything is set up. Tiffany D Jackson makes it look effortless and that is all just a testament to her talent.

Enchanted has big dreams. She wants to be a professional singer. She has the voice to back up these dreams. I appreciated the care that was taken to make Enchanted feel her age. She always reads like a kid. A fifteen year old but a kid nonetheless. This ensures that the reader never for one second forgets the dynamics of what is happening between her and Korey. Her regular teen worries and hopes are just another element that works to hammer home thr message of this book.

There is a fine line to be walked in books like this. Ws see everything through Enchanted's eyes and as a result the reader has to see how easy it is to fall into this kind of relationship. They have to see the side of Korey that Enchanted sees. This also has to be contrasted with showing that this is an abusive relationship right from the beginning. This book does this perfectly. There are so many red flags but it is entirely believable that Enchanted would not see them until it is much too late. As an adult I can see the power imbalance due to both the ages of the characters and the difference in status. I am not sure I would have seen those red flags as clearly as a teen which is the entire point of the novel. No matter what he knew better. 

The content warning in the beginning is not to be taken lightly. This is an abusive relationship in many different ways and the book shows many different kinds of abuse. It tackles verbal, physical, and sexual just to name a few. It is a tough, but important read. We hear stories like this too often. Young girls are sexualized and preyed upon and yet they sometimes are not even seen as victim thanks to society wanting to make excuses that often blame them for what happened. It all fits into rape culture and it was refreshing to see it presented in such a clear cut way.

The other element of the book is the mystery of what happened the night Korey Fields was murdered. The mystery is taunt and written in such a way that makes putting down this book almost impossible. I was pleasantly surprised that the answer to the question of what happened was not as straight forward as I was anticipating and that the ending packed a satisfying punch when it landed. A book like this needs to nail the ending and that is more than accomplished here.

Grown may have been the first book I've read by Tiffany Jackson but it will definitely not be the last. I had no clue that Tiffany's books would hit my true crime loving sweet spot but now that I do I will be making my way through her back catalog. I highly recommend this one if you like a good murder mystery and books that deal with tough but important topics.

Ten Books I Am Hoping To Read This Fall

The fall reading season is upon us. This would usually mean sitting in Starbucks with a pumpkin spice chai latte and a good book. This year may have to look a little different but there are still some amazing books to be released and I can always get that pumpkin spice chai latte to go and enjoy it at home while curled up with a cozy blanket.

There are so many amazing sounding books coming out that I decided to keep it to the ten books I personally hope to read this fall. They are books that will have released very recently or will release in the upcoming weeks (and through the end of the year).

1. The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by VE Schwab - October 6

2. Spoiler Alert by Olivia Dade - October 6

3. When No One Is Watching by Alyssa Cole - September 1

4. Plain Bad Heroines by Emily M Danforth - October 20

5. Vampires Never Get Old by Various - September 22

6. Crazy Stupid Bromance by Lyssa Kay Adams - October 27

7. The Unraveling of Cassidy Holmes by Elissa R Sloan - September 1

8. Kingdom of the Wicked by Kerri Maniscalco - October 27

9. In A Holidaze by Christina Lauren - October 6

10. Mind the Gap, Dash and Lily by Rachel Cohn and David Levithan - November 3

What books do you hope to read this fall? What books have you already read? I highly recommend Grown by Tiffany D Jackson which would have been on this list if I hadn't already read it.

Waiting On Wednesday .... Kate In Waiting

Waiting On Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Jill at Breaking The Spine that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

This week's pick is Kate In Waiting by Becky Albertalli

Here is the Goodreads synopsis

From #1 New York Times bestselling author and rom-com queen Becky Albertalli comes a buoyant new novel about daring to step out of the shadows and into the spotlight in love, life, and, yes, theater.

Contrary to popular belief, best friends Kate Garfield and Anderson Walker are not codependent. Carpooling to and from theater rehearsals? Environmentally sound and efficient. Consulting each other on every single life decision? Basic good judgment. Pining for the same guys from afar? Shared crushes are more fun anyway.

But when Kate and Andy’s latest long-distance crush shows up at their school, everything goes off script. Matt Olsson is talented and sweet, and Kate likes him. She really likes him. The only problem? So does Anderson.

Turns out, communal crushes aren’t so fun when real feelings are involved. This one might even bring the curtains down on Kate and Anderson’s friendship.

Becky Albertalli writes super cute contemporary reads. They are filled with loveable characters and swoon worthy romances. 

Her newest involves theatre, crushes, and friendship which means I am already obsessed. All of her books have great friendships but this one seems to focus on that element even more than usual which has me excited.

There is a long wait for this one as it doesn't come out until April of 2021, but the good news is that Becky has a lot of books that are out already for you to read while we wait.

Expected release date - April 20, 2021

Q and A with Kara McDowell

Anyone else having difficulties making decisions recently? It's been a real struggle thanks to pretty much everything that is going on right now. That is why I could really relate to the premise of Kara McDowell's upcoming book One Way or Another. Today I am excited to have Kara stop by to share a little about the upcoming release. It sounds perfectly suited for the holiday season and perfectly adorable. 

Here is the Goodreads synopsis:

The average person makes 35,000 decisions every single day. That's about 34,999 too many for Paige Collins, who lives in debilitating fear of making the wrong choice. The simple act of picking an art elective is enough to send her into a spiral of what-ifs. What if she's destined to be a famous ceramicist but wastes her talent in drama club? What if there's a carbon monoxide leak in the ceramics studio and everyone drops dead? (Grim, but possible!)

That's why when Paige is presented with two last-minute options for Christmas vacation, she's paralyzed by indecision. Should she go with her best friend (and longtime crush) Fitz to his family's romantic mountain cabin? Or should she accompany her mom to New York, a city Paige has spent her whole life dreaming about?

Just when it seems like Paige will crack from the pressure of choosing, fate steps in -- in the form of a slippery grocery store floor -- and Paige's life splits into two very different parallel paths. One path leads to New York where Paige falls for the city . . . and the charms of her unexpected tour guide. The other leads to the mountains where Paige might finally get her chance with Fitz . . . until her anxiety threatens to ruin everything.

However, before Paige gets her happy ending in either destiny, she'll have to face the truth about her struggle with anxiety -- and learn that you don't have to be "perfect" to deserve true love.

I was fortunate enough to have Kara answer a few questions about One Way or Another. She dishes on ice cream, her main character and more!

 1. What gif best describes One Way or Another? 

There’s a gif of Phoebe Buffay from Friends running back and forth in a wedding dress store yelling “WHAT DO I DO?” That frantic, anxious, confused energy is 100% my main character in the beginning of the ONE WAY OR ANOTHER. She can’t decide between spending Christmas break at a snowy mountain cabin with the boy she secretly loves or exploring New York for the first time. Fortunately, we get to see what happens in each scenario! 😉

2. If someone were to design a signature ice cream for your book what would be included? 

Oooh, I love this idea. It would be Frozen Hot Chocolate with White Chocolate Peppermint chunks. Sweet, indulgent, and perfect for the holidays. 

3. Describe your main character in three words. 

Paige Collins is ANXIOUS, filled with WANDERLUST, and IN LOVE. (Sorry, I cheated a little!)

4. Is there a particular song you listened to while writing this book

Yes! I have a whole ONE WAY OR ANOTHER playlist that can be found on Spotify. One song from it that really captures the spirit of the book is “You Are in Love,” by Taylor Swift. It’s about falling in love with your best friend, which is extremely relevant to Paige’s story. There’s also a line that says, “you two are dancing in a snow globe round and round,” which inspired one of the final scenes in the book. It’s cozy and romantic, just like ONE WAY OR ANOTHER!

I love how it sounds so cozy and romantic and perfect for a snowy day read. It releases October 6th so it'll be out in time for hot chocolate season! Side note, how amazing does that ice cream sound?!

Kara is running an amazing preorder campaign that will get you some fun goodies if you submit your receipt. Here are the details directly from Kara herself:

I am running a pre-order campaign for ONE WAY OR ANOTHER! Email your proof of purchase to karajmcdowell@gmail.com by October 6, 2020, and you’ll receive ONE WAY OR ANOTHER bookmark, a signed bookplate, and two character inspired temporary tattoos! The options are: pine trees, world map, black and white mistletoe, and a glitter snowflake. Let me know which ones you want or it will be random! I will also be signing all pre-orders through my local indie, Changing Hands Bookstore. 

She also offered up a peek at what those goodies look like!

 So cute, right? Be sure to add it your Goodreads and preorder from the retailer of your choice!

Amazon // Chapters // Indiebound // Barnes and Noble 

I love book that reminding me of the movie Sliding Doors and this one is definitely giving me those vibes. It is on my radar for my holiday reading.

Will you be reading One Way or Another? Let me know what you think in the comments.

Weekly Obsessions

 The awesome Kelly at KellyVision started posting a weekly post highlighting whatever she happened to be obsessed with that week. I LOVE this idea, so much in fact that I will be doing it myself every weekend.

This is a very trailer heavy post because Netflix has released so many trailers for the autumn movies. Lots of excellent stuff is coming up!

TV/MOVIES

A Teacher trailer

FX and FX on Hulu have been announcing some intriguing projects and we have a trailer for one of those projects.

This is a story of a teacher who gets involved with one of her students but from what I understand it is not going to be romanticizing this type of situation but will address how the student comes to realize he was a victim.

We cannot tell much from this trailer, but I am intrigued by that cast and will check it out to see how they handle everything.

Rebecca trailer

I wasn't sure about the casting of Armie Hammer in this but this trailer changed my mind. I think what he is doing here definitely works.

Lily James looks lovely and the costumes are gorgeous. I am excited to check this one out when it premieres on Netflix.

Freaky trailer

I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this trailer. Horror movies are not usually my thing (and I hear this one is a solid R for really graphic violence) but I may have to check this one out.

I burst out laughing every time Vince Vaughn breaks out into that cheer. So fun. It looks fun and scary which worked really well for Happy Death Day so I hope it works just as well here.

The Haunting Of Bly Manor trailer

Everyone who watched and loved The Haunting of Hill House was excited when it was announced that a second season would be coming and that it would be an anthology style show with many of the cast coming back to play new characters.

This season focuses on another classic, The Turning of the Screw, and the trailer looks especially creepy.

The Boys in the Band trailer

Ryan Murphy has turned a few Broadway plays into Netflix movies and we just got the trailer for the first one. The Boys in the Band looks really good.

I know almost nothing about this play, so I am definitely looking forward to discovering it when this releases on Netflix.

What are you obsessed with this week? Let me know in the comments.

The Roommate by Rosie Danan

The Roommate by Rosie Danan

Release Date - September 15, 2020

Publisher Website - Penguin Random House Canada
Publisher Social Media - Twitter

Pages - 336 pages
My Rating - 5/5
**received for an honest review from the publisher**

Here is the Goodreads synopsis

House Rules:

Do your own dishes

Knock before entering the bathroom

Never look up your roommate online

The Wheatons are infamous among the east coast elite for their lack of impulse control, except for their daughter Clara. She’s the consummate socialite: over-achieving, well-mannered, predictable. But every Wheaton has their weakness. When Clara’s childhood crush invites her to move cross-country, the offer is too much to resist. Unfortunately, it’s also too good to be true.

After a bait-and-switch, Clara finds herself sharing a lease with a charming stranger. Josh might be a bit too perceptive—not to mention handsome—for comfort, but there’s a good chance he and Clara could have survived sharing a summer sublet if she hadn’t looked him up on the Internet...

Once she learns how Josh has made a name for himself, Clara realizes living with him might make her the Wheaton’s most scandalous story yet. His professional prowess inspires her to take tackling the stigma against female desire into her own hands. They may not agree on much, but Josh and Clara both believe women deserve better sex. What they decide to do about it will change both of their lives, and if they’re lucky, they’ll help everyone else get lucky too. 

The Roommate has been making a big splash with early buzz being a cascade of enthusiastic praise. As a result of this I had fairly high expectations picking up this one. Luckily this book not only met those expectations but surpassed them.

I've seen this referred to as a raunch-com in various write ups about the book. I think that's a clever description that is worthy of the characters in the book for a few reasons. This book is funny and sexy (with a heavy emphasis on the sexy). It is seriously fan yourself steamy but also manages to pack in a lot of heart and humour. It balances everything perfectly and keeps the pace going so that the pages seem to fly by.

Sex positivity and female sexual pleasure are a huge focus of this book. It is all about being both shameless in asking for what you want in bed and for shaming less those who do. It advocates a healthy, consensual sex life that is enjoyable for both partners. It gives a female gaze to an industry that normally is strictly focused on the male gaze. 

The opposites attract style romance works especially well here. Sheltered and more reserved Clara and more outgoing and social Josh are surprisingly perfect for each other. The road bumps they face along the way feel organic to who these characters are and blend in with the character growth they both have to go through. They each have issues outside the relationship that have to be overcome in order to move forward and I think both of them have very satisfying arcs. 

Josh is going to be a favourite among romance readers. He is confident, charming, and easily likeable. I think he may end up being one of my favourite romantic heroes. Clara is fantastic heroine as well that I predict many will love.

Another way this book circumvented my expectations was with the inclusion of Josh's ex Naomi. It went in a direction I was not anticipating but should have expected from the rest of this book. The female support and empowerment was woven in seamlessly with the rest of this book's message.

Rosie Danan has quickly launched herself on to my list of must read romance authors. She has given us a delightful debut that will instantly leave you craving more. I definitely will have no shame in wanting to get my hands on her next book as soon as possible.

Waiting On Wednesday ... The Mary Shelley Club

 Waiting On Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Jill at Breaking The Spine that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

This week's pick is The Mary Shelley Club by Goldy Moldavsky

Here is the Goodreads synopsis

New York Times –bestselling author Goldy Moldavsky delivers a deliciously twisty YA thriller that's Scream meets Karen McManus about a mysterious club with an obsession for horror.

New girl Rachel Chavez is eager to make a fresh start at Manchester Prep. But as one of the few scholarship kids, Rachel struggles to fit in, and when she gets caught up in a prank gone awry, she ends up with more enemies than friends.

To her surprise, however, the prank attracts the attention of the Mary Shelley Club, a secret club of students with one objective: come up with the scariest prank to orchestrate real fear. But as the pranks escalate, the competition turns cutthroat and takes on a life of its own.

When the tables are turned and someone targets the club itself, Rachel must track down the real-life monster in their midst . . . even if it means finally confronting the dark secrets from her past. 

I enjoyed Kill The Boy Band a lot when I read it and this upcoming book by Goldy Moldavsky sounds like something I am going to love.

Secret clubs, pranks, escalating stakes, and all named after the incredible Mary Shelley. I cannot wait to see how she ties into this book as I am sure the title isn't just a mere reference.

It doesn't come out until April of 2021, but you should definitely read Kill The Boy Band in the mean time.

Expected release date - April 13, 2021

Mayhem by Estelle Laure

Mayhem by Estelle Laure

Release Date - July 14, 2020

Publisher Website - Raincoast Books
Publisher Social Media - Twitter

Pages - 304 pages
My Rating - 4/5
**received for an honest review from the publisher**

Here is the Goodreads synopsis

A YA feminist mash up inspired by The Lost Boys and The Craft.

It's 1987 and unfortunately it's not all Madonna and cherry lip balm. Mayhem Brayburn has always known there was something off about her and her mother, Roxy. Maybe it has to do with Roxy's constant physical pain, or maybe with Mayhem's own irresistible pull to water. Either way, she knows they aren't like everyone else. But when May's stepfather finally goes too far, Roxy and Mayhem flee to Santa Maria, California, the coastal beach town that holds the answers to all of Mayhem's questions about who her mother is, her estranged family, and the mysteries of her own self. There she meets the kids who live with her aunt, and it opens the door to the magic that runs through the female lineage in her family, the very magic Mayhem is next in line to inherit and which will change her life for good. But when she gets wrapped up in the search for the man who has been kidnapping girls from the beach, her life takes another dangerous turn and she is forced to face the price of vigilante justice and to ask herself whether revenge is worth the cost.

From the acclaimed author of This Raging Light and But Then I Came Back, Estelle Laure offers a riveting and complex story with magical elements about a a family of women contending with what appears to be an irreversible destiny, taking control and saying when enough is enough.

Mayhem was basically written as a love letter to the 80s, The Lost Boys, and The Craft. If you love any of those things I expect that you will also love Mayhem. It is a surprise filled read that combined so many of the things I love into something entirely unique and yet deeply familiar.

The world being built and the magic like elements surrounding it were very intriguing. I wish that this had actually been a series because I would have loved more time to deepen that element of the story and expand upon it. It feels like we just scratched the surface while still offering enough details for this story. It made the story feel quick and contained but I would have liked it to have more room to breathe.

This book, while mainly plot driven and focused, does allow for some great character moments. The character growth and exposition are mainly done via the relationship we get to experience. Familial bonds and secrets run like swift currents through this story and those connections are where all of the good character moments reside. Mayhem and her mother, in particular, stood out as an example of this. 

The Lost Boys inspiration is undeniable. Fans of the classic 80s movie are in for a treat due to the sheer number of incredible nods included in the story. The author captures the tone perfectly whole ensuring that those unfamiliar with the movie will still be able to follow the story. Readers are just in for a richer experience if they are familiar with it. I cackled with glee numerous times and had to instantly message my Lost Boys loving friend reactions. It will not disappoint.

The Edgar and Alan Frog cameos are worth the read all on their own. Estelle Laure captures their voices so perfectly that I could easily hear their words in Corey Feldman and Jamison Newlander's voices.

 

The love story worked for me in this largely due to the more mystical/paranormal elements. It just made the accelerated timeline feel a little more plausible. The family lore and history explored with these pages also added to that feeling. 

I found myself easily getting lost in the pages of this one. It blended together so many things that I love in way that was both comforting and exciting. It reminded me of  hot, restless summer days mixed with danger and unlimited possibilities. 

The Heir Affair by Heather Cocks and Jessica Morgan

The Heir Affair by Heather Cocks and Jessica Morgan

Release Date - July 7, 2020

Publisher Website - Hachette 
Publisher Social Media - Twitter

Pages - 464 pages
My Rating - 4/5
**received for an honest review from the publisher**

**spoilers for The Royal We**

Here is the Goodreads synopsis

After a scandalous secret turns their fairy-tale wedding into a nightmare, Rebecca "Bex" Porter and her husband Prince Nicholas are in self-imposed exile. The public is angry. The Queen is even angrier. And the press is salivating. Cutting themselves off from friends and family, and escaping the world's judgmental eyes, feels like the best way to protect their fragile, all-consuming romance.

But when a crisis forces the new Duke and Duchess back to London, the Band-Aid they'd placed over their problems starts to peel at the edges. Now, as old family secrets and new ones threaten to derail her new royal life, Bex has to face the emotional wreckage she and Nick left behind: with the Queen, with the world, and with Nick's brother Freddie, whose sins may not be so easily forgotten—nor forgiven.

I adored The Royal We immensely when it cam out. I was entirely charmed by pretty much everything about it. I was especially charmed by Freddie, the second born heir to the throne. I was delighted when a sequel was announced and while it may not be the Freddie focused read I wanted it was a delight nevertheless. 

The novel picks up pretty much right after the events of the first book. Only a short amount of time has passed and that allows us to deal with the ramifications of some of those events. It also means that you absolutely have to read the first book before picking this one up. It is a direct sequel and not a companion novel.

Similar to the first book it is not as light as you imagine it being. There are a lot of heavy topics dealt with in these pages. The events that happen to these characters are allowed to be felt. They resonate with the characters in palpable, realistic ways. It is part of why I love this series so much. It makes the characters feel real. It pays attention to the public and private personas these characters would have and both aspects of these characters are nuanced.

Freddie may not be the sole focus but he has a very significant role. The fallout from his confession to Bex and his offer to run away with her features heavily in this book's plot. Freddie's feelings for Bex and how that makes everyone else feel (including Bex) is messy and complicated. It isn't easily wrapped up. It is not neat or pretty. It is given the heft it deserves and it impacts so may relationships in different ways. My only issue with the previous book was that this confession was barely dealt with  in a significant way and this rectified that. 

These characters are not always going to make the 'right' decisions. The authors constructed them to be imperfect and that includes making mistakes. I predict many may not 'like' Bex and will feel frustrated with her at times (among other characters). They are characters that you understand however. They are all under intense scrutiny in high pressure situations. The fact that they are disasters every so often makes them more authentic and realistic.

There are some lighter, more fun moments in among the drama and heartbreak. These moments ring like joyful bells and will have you craving more of them. They are timed perfectly and allowed the reader to connect with the characters even more.

Family secrets are revealed and the way everything is wound together is very clever. There are story parallels that will eventually be obvious but I enjoyed how it all came together. It's juicy and scandalous enough to be worthy of a fictitious royal family.

If you loved the first book I highly recommend picking up the second. It gives you more of everything you loved in the first book be that drama, royal family secrets, Bex and Nick cuteness, or (thankfully) more Freddie.

#2020PopCultureResolution - It Happened One Night

It Happened One Night

Director: Frank Capra

Length:  105 minutes

Cast: Clark Gable, Claudette Colbert

Release Date:  February 22, 1934

Synopsis: Ellie Andrews is a spoiled heiress who has, against her father's will, eloped with fortune-hunting aviator "King" Westley. Jumping ship in Florida to reunite with her new spouse, her impromptu exit leads her to a bus traveling to New York City where she meets cheeky, charismatic news reporter Pete Warne.

***********************************************

It Happened One Night is one of the few movies that can boast to winning all five of the big awards at the Oscars. It's a prestigious honour that had my expectations really high before watching this one.

This movie is a charming romantic comedy that has elements of a screwball comedy mixed in. I can certainly see why it would have been beloved when it was released and why it might have won the accolades that it did.

Claudette Colbert is sweet in this. She reminds me a lot of Clara Bow in terms of her cherubic face and girl next door appeal. She's glamorous but in a very obtainable seeming way. She does a great job with this role (as evident from her Oscar win). 

Clark Gable's specific appeal has never been something that registered with me. There are plenty of other classic Hollywood actors that I would consider much more handsome. I can, however, appreciate his talent (specifically in this one). I enjoyed his take on this roguish, charismatic character and felt he suited the role perfectly.

The plot is pretty straightforward. A young heiress who recently married against her father's wishes has run off to be reunited with her husband. While making her way to him she meets a (very charming) reporter who agrees to help her in exchange for a story as her disappearance is big news. Anyone who has seen any amount of romantic comedies knows how this is going to end. It is not about the destination with this one, however, but rather the journey. 

The heart of this movie is the chemistry between Clark Gable and Claudette Colbert's characters. I am a sucker for some good banter between a couple and this movie definitely has that going for it. There are some genuinely funny scenes and some delightfully playful moments between the pair. Her exasperation combined with him knowing how to press her buttons worked for these characters. The scene in which he begins to strip in front of her is a perfect example of this. Everything Peter does is done with a wink and that played against Ellie's more sheltered personality is delightful. You know they are going to fall in love pretty much as soon as they meet, but more importantly you believe it.

A romantic comedy is not complete without a happy ending, and that is the case here. The tension within the last parts of this movie is just enough to make the ending all the more satisfying. If you like movies with witty banter, enough drama to make it compelling, and a touch of humour I would highly recommend this. You can't go wrong with this one as a pick me up on a rainy afternoon. 

Monthly TBR and Wrap Up

We are now in my favourite time of the year! September through December has always been my favourite. I love all of the good fall books that come out, and the awards worthy movies that release around this time. I love the cooler temperatures and everything pumpkin spice!

Before I get into what I am hoping to read in September I have to wrap up August. August was a weird month (aren't they all right now) but I managed to read four books.

The books that were on my list are:

New Moon by Stephenie Meyer (goodreads)
Eclipse by Stephenie Meyer (goodreads)
Breaking Dawn by Stephenie Meyer (goodreads)

Life and Death by Stephenie Meyer (goodreads)

Plus I had some ebooks on my list:

Where Dreams Descend by Janella Angeles (goodreads)
The Comeback by Ella Berman (goodreads)
More Than Maybe by Erin Hahn (goodreads)
Mayhem by Estelle Laure (goodreads)

Here is what I managed to read in August:

More Than Maybe by Erin Hahn (goodreads)

Mayhem by Estelle Laure (goodreads)

New Moon by Stephenie Meyer (goodreads)

The Stranger Beside Me by Ann Rule (goodreads)

My #2020PopCultureResolution book for August was The Stranger Beside Me by Ann Rule and the movie was Humoresque. My review of the movie was already posted if you were interested in checking that out.

Here is what I hope to read in September:

Midnight Sun by Stephenie Meyer (goodreads)

The Damned by Renee Ahdieh (goodreads)

And not pictured is my #2020PopCultureResolution pick for September:

Lords of Chaos by  Michael Moynihan and Didrik Søderlind (goodreads)

I also have some ebooks I am hoping to get to:

Where Dreams Descend by Janella Angeles (goodreads)
The Comeback by Ella Berman (goodreads)

The Roommate by Rosie Danan (goodreads)

Grown by Tiffany D Jackson (goodreads)

My August #2020PopCultureResolution choices are Lord of Chaos (as mentioned above) for the book and It Happened One Night for the movie. I am excited about reviewing both of them.

What books are you reading this month? Have you read any of the ones on my list? If so, let me know what you thought in the comments.

Sawyer Bennett New Series Reveal

From New York Times Bestselling Author Sawyer Bennett comes the Chronicles of the Stone Veil, a five book urban fantasy/paranormal romance series. A departure from contemporary romance, the Chronicles of the Stone Veil is a return to fantasy/paranormal romance, where Sawyer started her fiction publishing journey. Readers can expect to find all the elements they love from Sawyer’s books—strong heroines, alpha heroes, and an epic romance—with a fantastical element to add to their reading experience. Details for the Chronicles of the Stone Veil series are below:  

Go to Sawyer's website for details: Click here to learn more about The Chronicles of the Stone Veil series

 The Revelation of Light and Dark Chronicles of the Stone Veil, book #1

An Urban Fantasy / Paranormal Romance Series | Coming February 9, 2021

Add it to Goodreads

Book Blurb:

I always knew I was different.

From a young age, my mind has been plagued with things only I could see. Some hauntingly beautiful, others completely terrifying. Never knowing if these visions were real or just hallucinations, I learned how to lock them down and ignore them. I learned to take solace in the relative anonymity of city life and find peace in the rainy days my city of Seattle is known for.

But just when I think my life is getting on track and my dreams are achievable, a moment of weakness causes me to learn a hard and fast lesson.

My entire existence has been a lie.

Now I’m faced with a new reality that’s as implausible as it is fantastical. Filled with realms and veils, light and dark, fae and daemons, gods and angels—things I don’t understand but am forced to acknowledge. It doesn’t help that the man teaching me about my unique gifts is the gorgeously handsome Carrick Byrne, one of Seattle’s richest and most powerful men. He intimidates, annoys, and intrigues me all at the same time. I don’t trust him and yet there’s no one else to help me.

No longer certain who to put my faith in, what to believe, or how I fit into it all, one revelation is clear…

The world as I know it will never be the same again.

  PREORDER The Revelation of Light and Dark HERE: Amazon | Nook | Apple | Google | Kobo

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 A Discovery of Secrets and Fate

Chronicles of the Stone Veil, book #2 | Coming February 16, 2021

Add it to Goodreads

With more questions than answers, Finley Porter continues to seek the truth about her sister, Fallon, the powers held by the enigmatic and secretive Carrick Byrne, and how she fits into it all. When tragedy strikes one of her closest friends, Finley knows it’s time to accept her fate.

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 The Evolution of Fae and Gods

Chronicles of the Stone Veil, book #3 | Coming February 23, 2021

Add it to Goodreads

Armed with knowledge she never wanted and facing an enemy she never expected, Finley Porter is determined to learn the motives of the Dark Queen and how to stop her. And while Carrick Byrne continues to help Finley uncover the truth and hone her skills, she suspects his intentions may not be altruistic.

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 A Battle of Blood and Stone

Chronicles of the Stone Veil, book #4 | Coming March 23, 2021

Add it to Goodreads

As Finley Porter has learned, the truth is never as it seems. Dark Fae have been sent to destroy her, her past runs much deeper than she could ever imagine, and then there is the matter of Carrick Byrne. Frustrating and infuriating, he holds secrets that reveal the inexplicable connection they have, and that truth could be their undoing.

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 The Rise of Fortune and Fury

Chronicles of the Stone Veil, book #5 | Coming April 20, 2021

Add it to Goodreads

The final battle is here, and Finley Porter and Carrick Byrne have determined the missing piece to defeating the Dark Queen. But all victories come at a price, and the cost may be more than they are prepared to pay.

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GIVEAWAY 

 Sawyer Bennett is giving away a signed paperback of the first book in the Chronicles of the Stone Veil series, The Revelation of Light and Dark, and a $50 Amazon Gift Card. Fill out the form to enter to win. Giveaway ends September 18th. CLICK HERE TO ENTER TO WIN  

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AUTHOR INFORMATION

   

New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal Bestselling author Sawyer Bennett uses real life experience to create relatable stories that appeal to a wide array of readers. From contemporary romance, fantasy romance, and both women’s and general fiction, Sawyer writes something for just about everyone.

A former trial lawyer from North Carolina, when she is not bringing fiction to life, Sawyer is a chauffeur, stylist, chef, maid, and personal assistant to her very adorable daughter, as well as full-time servant to her wonderfully naughty dogs.

If you’d like to receive a notification when Sawyer releases a new book, sign up for her newsletter (sawyerbennett.com/signup).

  FIND SAWYER BENNETT:

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Bookbub | Instagram | Goodreads | Amazon

JOIN SAWYER'S NEWSLETTER

Waiting On Wednesday ... Malice

 Waiting On Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Jill at Breaking The Spine that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

This week's pick is Malice by Heather Walter

Here is the Goodreads synopsis

A princess isn’t supposed to fall for an evil sorceress. But in this darkly magical retelling of “Sleeping Beauty,” true love is more than a simple fairy tale.

Once upon a time, there was a wicked fairy who, in an act of vengeance, cursed a line of princesses to die. A curse that could only be broken by true love’s kiss.

You’ve heard this before, haven’t you? The handsome prince. The happily-ever-after.

Utter nonsense.

Let me tell you, no one in Briar actually cares about what happens to its princesses. Not the way they care about their jewels and elaborate parties and charm-granting elixirs. I thought I didn’t care, either.

Until I met her.

Princess Aurora. The last heir to Briar’s throne. Kind. Gracious. The future queen her realm needs. One who isn’t bothered that I am Alyce, the Dark Grace, abhorred and feared for the mysterious dark magic that runs in my veins. Humiliated and shamed by the same nobles who pay me to bottle hexes and then brand me a monster. Aurora says I should be proud of my gifts. That she . . . cares for me. Even though it was a power like mine that was responsible for her curse.

But with less than a year until that curse will kill her, any future I might see with Aurora is swiftly disintegrating—and she can’t stand to kiss yet another insipid prince. I want to help her. If my power began her curse, perhaps it’s what can lift it. Perhaps, together, we could forge a new world.

Nonsense again.

Because we all know how this story ends, don’t we? Aurora is the beautiful princess. And I—

I am the villain.

I love a fairytale retelling and this Sleeping Beauty retelling sounds amazing. It sounds like a unique twist on the tale and I predict the romance between Aurora and Maleficent will be a selling point for many.

Villain origin stories have become really popular and are definitely a favourite of mine. This sounds like we are getting that type of story here as well and I cannot wait.

This doesn't come out until April of 2021, but I am very certain it is going to be worth the wait. 

Expected release date - April 13, 2021

A Must Visit Website For Romance Fans

Today we are sharing an exciting LAUNCH AND GIVEAWAY!! LOVE TROPES is thrilled to present their new and exciting, user-friendly website for romance readers. It offers thousands of romance books organized by tropes, allowing readers to search and EASILY find their next great read. No more guessing games! 

Like their page at www.facebook.com/lovetropes, like their launch day post, comment on it, and you’ll be automatically entered to win a signed paperback, e-book, or gift card from one of their 270 authors. Sharing the post and tagging friends aren't required to enter the giveaway, but it’s certainly appreciated. Visit www.lovetropes.com for a special giveaway.

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CHECK OUT LOVE TROPES ONLINE

 

Website: https://www.lovetropes.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lovetropes

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lovetropes 

   

DON'T FORGET TO JOIN THE GROUP!

Join the Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/lovetropesreadergroup/

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