When We Caught Fire by Anna Godbersen

When We Caught Fire by Anna Godbersen
Release Date - October 2, 2018
Publisher Website - Harper Collins Canada

Publisher Social Media - Twitter/Facebook/SavvyReader/Frenzy
Pages -  384 pages
My Rating - 4/5
**received from the publisher for an honest review**

Here is the Goodreads synopsis

It’s 1871 and Emmeline Carter is poised to take Chicago’s high society by storm. Between her father’s sudden rise to wealth, and her recent engagement to Chicago’s most eligible bachelor, Emmeline has it all. But she can’t stop thinking about the life she left behind, including her childhood sweetheart, Anders Magnuson. Fiona Byrne, Emmeline’s childhood best friend, is delighted by her friend’s sudden rise to prominence, especially since it means Fiona is free to pursue Anders herself. But when Emmeline risks everything for one final fling with Anders, Fiona feels completely betrayed.

As the summer turns to fall, the city is at a tipping point: friendships are tested, hearts are broken, and the tiniest spark might set everything ablaze. Sweeping, soapy, and romantic, this is a story about an epic love triangle—one that will literally set the city ablaze, and change the lives of three childhood friends forever. 

As someone who loves a book with a good love triangle I was immediately intrigued by the idea of a love triangle that literally burns down a city. When We Caught Fire pairs friendship, romance and betrayal with the great fire of Chicago. It’s a  character driven story that is both hopeful, and heartbreaking. It also happens to be a perfect read for those looking for a well done love triangle.

This novel is more of a character driven on than plot driven, at least until the final few chapters. The characters are put into place to set up that final dizzying act of the story where everything is rapidly escalating. This style ensures that we are invested in the characters at this point so any peril they find themselves in resonates with the reader.

I enjoyed the historical elements of this book quite a bit. The scenes in which the fire is ravaging the city seem to be especially well researched. The order in which things burned and how the people of the city reacted seem to be painted with an accuracy that comes from attention to detail. The end scenes where the fire is destroying everything in its path are tinged with urgency, a bit of excitement, and a lot of sadness. The resilience of the city is also highlighted as we see how the people of the city came together because of what was transpiring.

Emmeline, who is from a newly rich family, is adjusting to her new life. A life that has almost everything she has ever wanted. She has an admirable finance, and is making a place for herself with most influential members of society. It's something she has wanted for a long time and something that beckons to her. She just cannot let go of her past which includes a boxer from the wrong side of town named Anders.  Fiona, Emmeline's best friend (and employee), has her own crush on Anders which complicates things even more. These three characters are believable as friends. That foundation is something that feels solid, particularly between the two girls. They also feel believable as potentially something more. Both ladies have chemistry with Anders. The connections being built feel natural because of the foundation that is set up.

The triangle itself is well woven. Each relationship is given its chance to shine and progress. I dislike when a triangle is ended by the author taking the easy way out. I don't feel that triangles should be decided because of a death of one of the characters, or any similar means of making one of the possibilities unavailable or unsuitable. A decision should be made at some point. It should be clear and decisive and this book offers that. You can have the other elements come into play after, but a good triangle allows the characters to make an actual decision. The person being 'chosen' (for lack of a better word) should not feel like the default option in a successful love triangle.

The friendship between Emmeline and Fiona is a larger part of the narrative than I anticipated. It is also much stronger than I expected. This friendship is something entirely separate from their relationship with Anders and that makes all of the difference. I like that this friendship adds another complexity to the triangle while still not sacrificing the bond between the two girls. It doesn't turn into some backstabbing girl fight even though it could. Jealousy creeps in but in a way that didn't feel overwrought and still allowed them to be something outside of the boy they both cared for.

I don't want to give anything away when it comes to the romance so all I will say is that it eventually becomes very clear who should be together and it does become a very sweet love story that is set against the backdrop of this devastating fire. I, personally, feel that once you know the outcome it is the only outcome that could happen but I predict there will be people who wanted the opposite to happen. The two relationships both have good qualities, but one just sparked a little more for me than the other.

If you are a fan of both love triangles and historical novels I recommend picking this one up. It’s a look at both the bond of friendship, the thrill of romance, and the ways in which feelings can ignite both literal and metaphorical fires.

Waiting On Wednesday ... When We Caught Fire

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 When We Caught Fire by Anna Godbersen

Here is the Goodreads synopsis 

It’s 1871 and Emmeline Carter is poised to take Chicago’s high society by storm. Between her father’s sudden rise to wealth, and her recent engagement to Chicago’s most eligible bachelor, Emmeline has it all. But she can’t stop thinking about the life she left behind, including her childhood sweetheart, Anders Magnuson. Fiona Byrne, Emmeline’s childhood best friend, is delighted by her friend’s sudden rise to prominence, especially since it means Fiona is free to pursue Anders herself. But when Emmeline risks everything for one final fling with Anders, Fiona feels completely betrayed.

As the summer turns to fall, the city is at a tipping point: friendships are tested, hearts are broken, and the tiniest spark might set everything ablaze. Sweeping, soapy, and romantic, this is a story about an epic love triangle—one that will literally set the city ablaze, and change the lives of three childhood friends forever. 

The idea that a love triangle is what caused the 1871 Chicago fire immediately piqued my interest. I know love triangles are met with resistance from many, but I love them. I am curious about how it leads to a city burning down and I am sure it'll be filled with plenty of drama and scandal along the way.

This book doesn't come out until autumn of 2018, but I am already keeping my fingers crossed I get my hands on an ARC because I don't think I can wait that long to read this one.

Expected release date - October 2, 2018

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 Saturday.

BOOKS

Cover Of Courtney Summer's Sadie (goodreads)

People have raved about Courtney Summer's novels to me before. I have not read nearly as many of them as I should but I have read enough of them to know that her books are powerful, and her newest sounds like no exception.

Courtney's newest novel is being compared to the Serial podcast and sounds like it has a great murder mystery hook that will (most likely) also examine missing girls in general.

I also happen to love this cover. It's striking and eye catching while being very simple. I am super excited for this one as I think it is going to be one of the must reads of fall 2018 for a lot of people.

When We Caught Fire by Anna Godbersen (goodreads)

Publisher's Weekly recently posted their Children's Books Fall 2018 Sneak Peek and this title caught my eye. It is described as "relating the fictional story of the love triangle that started Chicago’s Great Fire" which immediately intrigued me. I am looking forward to hearing more about this one when the Fall catalog is released.

Cover of The Dark Descent Of Elizabeth Frankenstein by Kiersten White (goodreads)

A creepy sounding book deserves a creepy cover and Kiersten White's newest has got one of the creepiest covers I've seen in a long time.

This Frankenstein retelling has a cover that looks, chillingly, like sewn skin  (even if it is pink velvet). It instantly brings to mind the classic story of Frankenstein while the title tells you that it's something all together different.

I am excited to see what this version of Frankenstein does to twist and reimagine the story. I am so excited to get my hands on this one, and that amazing cover is just one of the reasons.

Cover of The Lady's Guide To Petticoats And Piracy (goodreads)

I loved The Gentleman's Guide To Vice and Virtue. I especially loved Monty's sister, Felicity, and was thrilled that she was getting her own novel!

The cover of that novel has recently been revealed, and it is amazing!

I love that it is both similar to Monty's cover and yet uniquely Felicity's at the same time. I cannot wait to see what adventures await Felicity and the new characters we are to meet!

TV/MOVIE

Jessica Jones Season Two Trailer

My love for Jessica Jones is well documented and I am very (im)patiently counting down the days until I can binge watch season two.

This newest trailer is doing nothing to make the wait any easier. It's even better than the first trailer that was released. It pretty much filled with everything I love about Jessica Jones - Jessica's snarky one liners, Trish being the kind of best friend we all want, and Jessica calling men out on their shit.

I love that this show calls out rape culture the way that it does. It was vital to season one because of the plot, but it is nice to see that it is still part of the show for its second season. March 8th isn't that far away right? *cries*

OTHER

Grease Funko Pops 

I am a huge fan of classic movies, and Grease is one of my favourites. It is a movie I remember vividly from my childhood and is one I still watch when I am feeling nostalgic.

I was excited when Funko announced during their huge batch of Toy Fair announcements that they would be making some Grease Funko Pops!

We get two different versions of Sandy and Danny and I am pretty sure I am going to need both of them. I also really want to see the back of the yellow dress Sandy as I am sure her hair is amazing.

More Stranger Things Funkos

Along with the above mentioned Grease announcement, Funko also announced some new Stranger Things Funko Pops that have me already clearing some room on my shelves.

I am, for sure, going to need both of the Steve Funkos, and that Eleven is pretty awesome. I may also have to add Billy to my collection, and who could resist Bob dressed a vampire (it certainly doesn't suck)? The details on these Funko Pops keep getting better and these are some of the best I have seen yet.

What are you obsessed with this week?

Best Of 2014.... So Far

The halfway point of 2014 is quickly approaching and with it many best of (so far at least) lists. Since I typically do one, I figured now was as good a time as any.

Here are the ten books that I would consider my best of 2014...so far. These are in no particular order and are not ranked in any way.

We Were Liars by E Lockheart

The less said about this one the better. Just read it. Become a liar. You'll thank me after you've recovered.

Brazen by Katherine Longshore

Fans of Reign are being told to pick this one up. I completely agree. It's got scandalous Tudor drama, some rather adorable flirting, and some of my favourite friendships portrayed in a novel. Katherine also happens to be a fantastic writer, so the overall book is amazing.

Dorothy Must Die by Danielle Paige

Taking a beloved character and putting a deliciously sinful twist on her? Perfection. Danielle Paige's precision style writing, and attention to detail made this an intricate read. It left me dying for book two, and pretty sure I would never look at Dorothy the same way again.

Half Bad by Sally Green

A beautifully written book that puts a twist on the whole nature vs nurture question. A boy witch who has been ostracized his whole life for being 'half bad' offers heartbreaking moments, and a fascinating look at society in general.

Love Letters To The Dead by Ava Dellaria

This will leave you weepy, and may inspire you to write your own love letter to the dead. An impact debut novel that uses a letter style format to tell it's heartbreaking yet hopeful story. I easily got swept away.

Since You've Been Gone by Morgan Matson

A fun novel that has depth and layers. This one is perfect for the summer, and will leave you wanting to touch base with your own best friend...and maybe write them a list or two.

The Winner's Cure by Marie Rutkoski

Beautifully written, and some amazing world building mixed with incredible characters made Marie's novel a fantastic start to a new series. It's sneaks up on you and leaves you breathless as you feel it's full impact. Book two now, please!

Famous In Love by Rebecca Serle

Fun! Fun! Fun! If Hollywood love triangles, CW television shows, and novels that explore more than just the romance are your thing, YOU NEED TO PICK UP THIS BOOK. The characters, the setting, and the romance all won me over. My review will come closer to the date, but Rebecca had me hooked from the first paragraph. I basically need book two immediately.

Exquisite Captive by Heather Demetrois

Intricate world building, a driven and determined female lead character, and some scorchingly sexy scenes made this a favourite. The interweaving of the all too real issue of the slave trade made this one resonate a little deeper. Full review to come soon (along with some other fun things) but this one easily charmed me.

The Blonde by Anna Godbersen

Marilyn Monroe as a spy is the premise for this tightly woven novel. Surprisingly this works much better than perhaps thought at first glance, and the author makes it seem entirely all to plausible. The romance between Marilyn and John F Kennedy provided a romantic backdrop that raised the stakes. A fantastic beach thriller for this summer!

Each of these links to my review (where available) if you wish to check it out.

What books made your list? Did you read any that are on mine? If so, what did you think?

The Blonde by Anna Godbersen

The Blonde by Anna Godbersen

Release Date - May 13, 2014

Publisher Website - Weinstein Books
Publisher Social Media - Twitter
Pages - 400 pages
My Rating - 4/5
**received in exchange for an honest review from the publisher**

Here is the Goodreads synopsis

Marilyn Monroe is at the height of her fame, the object of the world’s desire. Attention is her drug, the very definition of who she is. Her own wants and needs have become fleeting at best, as if she sees herself only through others’ eyes. But there is one thing Marilyn still wishes for beyond all else—to meet her real father. That’s the part you already know, the legend—but here’s the part that’s never been told.

In Anna Godbersen’s imaginative novel, set at the height of the Cold War, a young, unknown Norma Jean meets a man in Los Angeles—a Soviet agent? A Russian spy?—who transforms her into Marilyn the star. And when she reaches the pinnacle of success, he comes back for his repayment. He shows her a photo of her estranged father and promises to reunite them in exchange for information: Find out something about presidential candidate John F. Kennedy that no one else knows. At first, Marilyn is bored by the prospect of, once again, using a man’s attraction to get what she needs. But when she meets the magnetic Jack Kennedy, she realizes that this isn’t going to be a simple game. What started with the earnest desire to meet her father has grave consequences for her, for the bright young Kennedy, and for the entire nation. The Blonde is a vivid tableau of American celebrity, sex, love, violence, power, and paranoia.

Marilyn Monroe a spy? Intriguing right? I would bet that the word implausible probably crossed your mind. That was my initial reaction as well. The Blonde, however, mixes hard facts with the most thrilling fiction to create something that is not only entertaining, but read as true as any biography. A fun, scorching thriller that I predict will burn up the beach this summer.

The level of detail, research, and plotting put into capturing that essence of Marilyn's world shines brightly throughout the novel. Anna Godbersen takes significant events, and concrete dates and makes you see them in a different light. It doesn't take make, a tweak here, a twist there, and I was ready to buy into Marilyn living a double life. A large part of if this novel works for you or not will be how quickly you buy into the notion of Marilyn as a spy. I felt it was presented logically, realistically and that the author made it fit together like a missing puzzle piece.

The essence of Marilyn and what we know about her breathes through these pages. Her carefully crafted persona, her desire to have her true voice heard, and, of course, the damaged, broken girl who was looking for something she never found. There was a nice balance between the strong, forceful Marilyn, and the destructive, obsessive, girl underneath. She was layered, and much more complex than I think people would expect. Marilyn's movie starlet persona was something she painstakingly built with a specific purpose. She often asked people if they wanted her to 'be Marilyn' for them. This lends itself all to easily to the fictional reality Anna is painting. Someone who is already hiding behind a mask, it's easy to imagine they'd have another one.

The love story of Marilyn and Jack felt dangerous, obsessive, and magnetic. Even though I knew nothing good could come out of it, I still hoped. Hoped they could save each other. Hope that Marilyn would get to finally have all she wanted. Having Marilyn fall in love with the charming president was not a stretch. I certainly will never look at the beathy, sensual rendition of Happy Birthday Marilyn sang to him the same way after this novel.

As everything unravels, and that fateful day of November 22 looms closer the tension increases. The novel speeds towards not only John F Kennedy's death, but Marilyn's as well. The mystery, and conspiracies that surround each of their deaths allowed for some twists and turns in the story that were generally surprising. The ending is much like Marilyn herself - haunting.  It left me consumed with theories long after I finished the last page.

The novels biggest victory is that as it pulls you deeper under it's spell you begin to wonder. The question of 'what if' is instantly haunting and ever present as you fly through the pages. The ease in which fact and fiction are entwined and blend together allows the reader to bridge that gap easily, and ultimately, the story Anna Godbersen weaves felt entirely plausible.

The Blonde is a white hot twist on the story of Marilyn Monroe. A tantalizing thriller, a deliciously scandalous love story, and at it's heart a portrayal of a broken girl who left Hollywood used and discarded. After The Blonde you just may question how she got to that ending.

New To My Book Closet

It's that time of the week again. Time to show you what bookish goodies made their way into my home and book closet (to be saved from the evil book eating cat monster named Aria). This is inspired by the various "mailbox" posts out there (eg. In My Mailbox by The Story Siren, and Stacking the Shelves by Tynga's Reviews).

Some amazing things in my mailbox this week. A book by one of my favourite authors showed up, and I am dying to dive right into it!

The Blonde by Anna Godbersen (Goodreads)

The Vanishing Season by Jodi Lynn Anderson (Goodreads)

I loved Jodi Lynn Anderson's Tigerlily and fell in love with her writing style. I can't wait to read The Vanishing Season. The other book also sounds good. It's a fictional story revolving around Marilyn Monroe as a SPY! Amazing right? A huge thank you to Harper Collins Canada and Weinstein Books for these.

I also go another book that was promptly borrowed by one of my fellow Ottawa Blogettes

To All The Boys I've Loved Before by Jenny Han (Goodreads)

A huge thank you to Simon and Schuster Canada for this one. The praise that my fellow Canadian bloggers are heaping on this one makes me want to read it immediately!

Let me know what you got in your mailbox this week!

Happy weekend, and happy reading!