Two Dogs and a Book

The Last Love Note  by  Emma Grey My rating:  3 of 5 stars In THE LAST LOVE NOTE by Emma Grey, I embarked on a journey filled with conflicting emotions. Despite my initial eagerness to delve deeper into the narrative, the unexpected weightiness of the prose caught me off guard. The narrative's frequent jumps in timeline, especially in audiobook format, proved disorienting and challenging to follow. However, Leeanna Walsman's narration was outstanding, rescuing the experience with her excellent delivery. The novel grapples with poignant themes, exploring the profound ideas of seizing life's moments and nurturing hope amid pain. Yet, occasional forced dialogue and slapstick humor felt incongruent with the somber tone. Nevertheless, the commendable growth of the characters and the author's skill in infusing joy and hope into a challenging narrative make it a worthwhile read. While my personal experience may differ, many readers have found this book highly enjoyable, so I e...

A Storm of Infinite Beauty  by  Julianne MacLean My rating:  3 of 5 stars A STORM OF INFINITE BEAUTY by Julianne MacLean left me with mixed feelings. While the premise of Scarlett Fontaine's mysterious life and the connection to Gwen Hollingsworth promised intrigue, the execution fell short. The dual timelines, spanning from Valdez, Alaska in 1963 to Nova Scotia in 2017, lacked a seamless transition, leaving me more captivated by the historical narrative. The portrayal of Gwen and Peter's relationship felt awkward, particularly in discussing Gwen's past with Eric. The narrative, resembling women's fiction, could have thrived as a focused exploration of the Valdez earthquake, bypassing the disjointed present-day plot. Despite its shortcomings, Maclean's descriptive prose crafts vivid settings, from a lush vineyard to a rustic Alaska lodge, making it a worthwhile read for those seeking a scenic journey with a touch of family mystery. ✏ Favourite quote: "I mean, w...

Public Anchovy #1  by  Mindy Quigley My rating:  4 of 5 stars In PUBLIC ANCHOVY #1 by Mindy Quigley, the delightful chaos of Geneva Bay's Deep Dish Mystery series unfolds in a Wisconsin pizzeria, blending suspense with humor. As pizza chef Delilah O'Leary navigates the challenges of winter slow season and a promising romance with detective Calvin Capone, a murder crashes a Prohibition-themed fundraiser. The story takes an unexpected turn, trapping Delilah, Capone, and her staff in a mansion for a thrilling game of cat and mouse with a desperate killer. Quigley's narrative mastery keeps readers guessing, and even with prior series knowledge recommended, the book stands as a gripping standalone. Returning to Delilah's world, I found the unpredictable mystery, coupled with the entertaining cat antics, a perfect blend of suspense and humor. ✏ Favourite quote: "It's not a weakness to feel things," I said. #bookstadog #poodlesofinstagram #doodlesofinstagram #fur...

My True Love Gave to Me: Twelve Days of Christmas  by  Scott McKowen My rating:  5 of 5 stars MY TRUE LOVE GAVE TO ME by illustrator Scott McKowen is a fantastic and clever rendition of the classic holiday song "The Twelve Days of Christmas." The artist injects a delightful Canadian flavor into the traditional European carol, creating gorgeous and apt illustrations for each verse. The book is a visual feast, and I appreciated the meticulous attention to detail in the whimsical scratchboard illustrations. Having stumbled upon this gem, I'm thrilled to make it a part of our family's Christmas tradition. The joy I found in the pages ensures that revisiting these beautiful illustrations will become a cherished yearly ritual. McKowen's art breathes new life into a timeless song, making this book a perfect gift, not just for the holiday season, but for any occasion that calls for enchanting artistry. #bookstadog #poodlesofinstagram #doodlesofinstagram #furbabies #dogsof...

Blue Christmas  by  Mary Kay Andrews My rating:  3 of 5 stars BLUE CHRISTMAS by Mary Kay Andrews, the third in a series, unfolds in the festive chaos of Weezie Foley's vintage shop. As a newcomer to the series, I sensed a lack of depth due to my unfamiliarity with the characters from the first two books. Despite its simplicity, the novel offers a cozy, basic Christmas tale. Weezie's quirky world, filled with antiques and a penchant for holiday cheer, is marred by misadventures—stolen items, a disastrous dinner, and the unexplained aversion of her boyfriend, Daniel, to Christmas. The narrative's simplicity may appeal to those seeking an uncomplicated festive read, though I felt a slight disconnect without the foundation of the preceding books. ✏ Favourite quote: “Never, ever ask a former clergyman to say the blessing over a holiday dinner. Not if you like your dinner warm, anyway." #bookstadog #poodlesofinstagram #doodlesofinstagram #furbabies #dogsofinstagram #bookstag...

This Spells Love  by  Kate Robb My rating:  4 of 5 stars THIS SPELLS LOVE by Kate Robb is a delightful journey into the mystical realms of love and self-discovery. Gemma's post-breakup woes take an unexpected turn when a whimsical love-cleansing spell catapults her into an alternate reality. Robb's narrative is a seamless blend of romance and mystique, offering a unique twist on the friends-to-lovers trope. Gemma's character is both relatable and endearing, navigating newfound emotions and challenges with humor and grace. The familial dynamics, especially the eccentric aunt and supportive sister, add layers of hilarity to the narrative. The Canadian setting is a charming backdrop, enriching the story with a touch of authenticity. I appreciated the engaging banter between Gemma and Dax, highlighting their chemistry and the shy-hot dynamic that unfolds. The exploration of time travel and the internal conflict faced by Gemma make for a captivating and well-paced storyline. O...

Normal Rules Don't Apply: Stories  by  Kate Atkinson My rating:  3 of 5 stars NORMAL RULES DON'T APPLY by Kate Atkinson is a collection of eleven interconnected stories. Each tale offers a twist, blurring the lines between genres—from fairy tales and science fiction to stories of love, royalty, murder, and mayhem. The book lives up to its name, leaving readers often questioning, 'What did I just read?' Despite not being a fan of short stories, I found myself captivated by Atkinson's superb writing, infused with humor and a diverse array of compelling characters. The unreal scenarios are offset by the characters' genuine depth, making this an engaging, humorous, and sometimes unsettling read. ✏ Favourite quote: “Hello, Boy," Franklin said. He liked dogs, they were uncomplicated. "I'm a girl, actually," the dog said. #bookstadog #poodlesofinstagram #doodlesofinstagram #furbabies #dogsofinstagram #bookstagram #dogsandbooks #bookishlife #bookishlo...

This Vicious Grace  by  Emily Thiede My rating:  4 of 5 stars THIS VICIOUS GRACE by Emily Thiede is a captivating Young Adult fantasy that weaves a tale of divine gifts, impending doom, and unlikely alliances. Alessa, chosen by gods to save her people, grapples with a lethal touch that complicates her quest for a magical partner. The story unfolds against the backdrop of an island inspired by Italy's enchanting Amalfi coast, adding vibrancy to the narrative. The novel's strengths lie in its inventive magic system and the exploration of collaboration across societal divides. The forbidden romance between Alessa and the enigmatic Dante adds a layer of intrigue and charm, complemented by moments of humor and genuine friendships. However, my enjoyment was tempered by a desire for more detailed worldbuilding. The demonic scarabeo threat and the fascinating legend of the ghiotte begged for deeper exploration. The friendships, while heartwarming, felt slightly rushed, lacking in...

The Deal of a Lifetime and Other Stories  by  Fredrik Backman My rating:  4 of 5 stars THE DEAL OF A LIFETIME AND OTHER STORIES by Fredrik Backman is a poignant collection that once again showcases the author's mastery in crafting deeply moving narratives. The novella, set on Christmas Eve, weaves the destinies of a man who built a global empire at the cost of his family and a resilient little girl fighting for her life. Backman poses the profound question of legacy and redemption, urging readers to ponder the choices that define us. The additional stories, like "And Every Morning the Way Home Gets Longer and Longer" and "Sebastian and the Troll," continue to explore themes of love, regret, and the human experience. Backman's signature humor and compassion shine through, making this collection a treasure trove of reflections on life's intrinsic value. The blend of heavy emotions and hope, coupled with Backman's unmatched storytelling prowess, ensures...

The Great Gatz  by  Lauren Baratz-Logsted My rating:  4 of 5 stars THE GREAT GATZ by Lauren Baratz-Logsted and Jackie Logsted offers a heartwarming perspective through the eyes of Gatz, a lovable border collie navigating the complexities of his owners' evolving relationships. The story unfolds as The Woman and The Man navigate new relationships, bringing humor and warmth to the narrative. Gatz's viewpoint adds a delightful layer, capturing the essence of dog moments that resonate with any dog lover. The book, perfect for the holiday season, delivers a charming tale of family dynamics and unexpected happiness. The unique narrative style, coupled with Gatz's insights, creates an engaging and heartwarming experience. A must-read for dog enthusiasts, this installment in the Gatz Chronicles series is a delightful and uplifting story that I thoroughly enjoyed. ✏ Favourite quote: “Maybe happiness is hanging in there. Maybe happiness is choosing to be happy with another. You love...

Klaus: The Life & Times of Santa Claus  by  Grant Morrison My rating:  4 of 5 stars KLAUS: THE LIFE & TIMES OF SANTA CLAUS - Volume 3, crafted by the dynamic duo Grant Morrison and Dan Mora, unfolds in a festive medley of holiday tales. In this graphic novel, Klaus faces diverse challenges, from aiding an absentee dad-snowman seeking redemption to delving into Norse mythology against extraterrestrial foes. While not as eccentric as previous Klaus stories, the collection offers a brisk pace, with the second narrative adopting a unique format of comic covers retracing history. The sentient snowman tale weaves a traditional Christmas narrative intertwined with Norse mythology, creating a delightful yet peculiar blend. Although a departure from Morrison's typical style, these one-offs evoke a return to his whimsically weird roots, making for an intriguing and visually stunning holiday read. #bookstadog #poodlesofinstagram #doodlesofinstagram #furbabies #dogsofinstagra...

Klaus: The New Adventures of Santa Claus  by  Grant Morrison My rating:  3 of 5 stars KLAUS: THE NEW ADVENTURES OF SANTA CLAUS - Volume 2 by Grant Morrison and Dan Mora offers a festive yet slightly uneven ride through holiday-themed tales. The graphic novel, penned by luminary author Grant Morrison, introduces an intriguing mix of elements: an ageless ice queen, robotic snowmen, and an evil soda corporation. Mora's illustrations breathe life into characters like dear Lilli and Father Frost, with a standout werewolf design deserving special mention. However, the collection falls short in its brevity, leaving some narratives feeling rushed and chaotic. Despite this, the charm of Klaus vs. the Martians and other whimsical moments prevails, ensuring an enjoyable read. While not reaching the heights of its predecessor, Volume 2 remains a worthwhile addition to the modern Santa mythos, promising more holiday adventures to come. #bookstadog #poodlesofinstagram #doodlesofinstagr...

Comfort & Joy  by  Kristin Hannah My rating:  4 of 5 stars COMFORT & JOY by Kristin Hannah exceeded my expectations, proving to be a heartwarming yet poignant journey. Published in 2005, I regret waiting so long to delve into this emotional masterpiece by one of my favorite authors. Hannah skillfully weaves a tale of resilience as Joy Candellaro, recently divorced and grappling with loss, embarks on a spontaneous adventure in the Pacific Northwest. The story unfolds with unexpected twists, keeping me eagerly turning pages. Joy's encounters with young Bobby, grieving the loss of his mother, add depth and warmth to the narrative. Hannah's ability to evoke genuine emotions, coupled with a compelling mystery, made it nearly impossible to put the book down. COMFORT & JOY is a testament to Hannah's storytelling prowess, delivering a rich tapestry of feelings and unexpected turns. ✏ Favourite quote: “You can run away from your life and your past, but there's no way...

Role Playing  by  Cathy Yardley My rating:  2 of 5 stars ROLE PLAYING by Cathy Yardley, unfortunately, fell short of my expectations despite an intriguing premise. The concept of two older characters navigating love through online gaming piqued my interest, but the execution left me disappointed. The story's attempt to portray characters in their fifties seemed forced, as their interactions lacked the authenticity of age-appropriate dynamics. The narrative was marred by an overwhelming dose of toxicity, making the reading experience frustrating and uncomfortable. While I appreciated the characters of Maggie and Aiden, and the inclusion of queer representation, most side characters and conflicts felt discarded. The strained family relationships and peculiar dynamics left me questioning the realism of the portrayal. Despite being in the minority, this book, unfortunately, didn't resonate with my expectations for mature romance and social awkwardness. While this book wasn't ...

The Burnout  by  Sophie Kinsella My rating:  4 of 5 stars THE BURNOUT by Sophie Kinsella is a refreshing exploration of mental health, resonating as a feel-good tale emphasizing self-care. Sasha, grappling with burnout, seeks solace at a seaside resort, leading to encounters with Finn, a fellow traveler on the road to recovery. Kinsella weaves nostalgia through Sasha's connection to the beach hotel, infusing the narrative with poignant reflections on family and happiness. The novel balances humor, especially through Sasha's quirky interactions with the hotel staff, providing comic relief amid the serious theme. The evolving connection between Sasha and Finn forms the emotional core, offering a heartfelt journey toward better mental health. With warmth and charm, Kinsella's storytelling captures the resilience of the human spirit, leaving readers with a sense of hope and happiness in a world often plagued by burnout. #bookstadog #poodlesofinstagram #doodlesofinstagram #fur...

Wrath Becomes Her  by  Aden Polydoros My rating:  4 of 5 stars WRATH BECOMES HER by Aden Polydoros seamlessly weaves historical agony with supernatural intrigue, delivering a unique WWII narrative through the lens of vengeance and grief. Set in Lithuania, the story revolves around Vera, a golem forged from the mud of a river to avenge her Nazi-victimized counterpart, Chaya. The prose beautifully captures the pain, rage, and complexities of human emotions, making it a compelling read. The palpable grief of characters like Akiva and Ezra resonates powerfully, their anguish against the Nazis portrayed with intense emotion. Polydoros skillfully blends fantasy elements with a poignant exploration of identity, presenting a captivating tale that distinguishes itself in the realm of historical fiction. WRATH BECOMES HER is a poignant journey that transcends the typical WWII narrative, offering a fresh perspective through well-drawn Jewish characters and a gripping fusion of fanta...

A Girl Called Echo Omnibus  by  Katherena Vermette My rating:  5 of 5 stars A GIRL CALLED ECHO by Katherena Vermette, illustrated by Scott B. Henderson and Donovan Yaciuk, is a captivating graphic novel that seamlessly blends genres to explore Métis identity and resistance. Echo Desjardins, a Métis teenager, navigates the challenges of a new school and home. As her ordinary history class transforms into an extraordinary time-traveling adventure, Echo witnesses pivotal moments in Métis history, shedding light on their indomitable spirit despite betrayals by the Canadian government. This omnibus edition, comprising all four volumes, intricately weaves a coming-of-age narrative with historical timelines, maps, and real events. The story's power lies in its ability to educate and inspire, shedding light on Métis history with bold and eye-catching illustrations. A must-read that deserves a place in every classroom library, offering a galvanizing exploration of Canadian and Ind...

The Fragile Threads of Power  by  V.E. Schwab My rating:  4 of 5 stars THE FRAGILE THREADS OF POWER by V.E. Schwab weaves a mesmerizing tale across four interconnected worlds, linked by the enigmatic city of London. Although I hadn't read the preceding "A Darker Shade of Magic" series, I found myself captivated by Schwab's intricate world-building and compelling characters. The magic system is a revelation, with depth and intricacy that held my fascination from the first page to the last. Schwab's whimsical and flowy writing style adds a layer of enchantment to the narrative, making the book a compelling read despite my initial lack of familiarity with the characters. However, the multiple points of view and swiftly changing events posed a challenge, as there wasn't a clear introduction to each perspective. Despite this, the book serves as an engaging introduction to a promising new series, and I eagerly anticipate the progression of the plot laid out in this ...

The Curse of Penryth Hall  by  Jess Armstrong My rating:  4 of 5 stars THE CURSE OF PENRYTH HALL by Jess Armstrong is a compelling blend of mystery, magic, and historical drama. Set in post-World War I England, the story follows Ruby Vaughn, an American heiress with a mysterious past, as she confronts old wounds and dark secrets in the haunting Penryth Hall. Armstrong's narrative, voiced by Ruby, skillfully weaves a complex tapestry of relationships, wartime experiences, and familial exile. While the plot centers around a murder mystery enveloped in whispers of curses and magic, Armstrong introduces a unique and captivating storyline. The atmospheric setting of Penryth Hall, with its foreboding aura, adds an eerie touch to the tale. The reveal of suspects and the intricate connections between characters keep the reader guessing until the satisfying conclusion. Despite the novel's debut status, Armstrong displays a seasoned storytelling flair, creating a suspenseful, para...

The Second Chance Year  by  Melissa Wiesner My rating:  4 of 5 stars THE SECOND CHANCE YEAR by Melissa Wiesner is a delightful blend of charm, wit, and just a touch of magic that kept me thoroughly engaged from start to finish. Sadie Thatcher's tumultuous life takes a surprising turn when a fortune teller grants her the opportunity to redo a disastrous year. The premise, though not entirely novel, unfolds uniquely, diverging from the typical time loop trope. Wiesner skillfully weaves quirky dialogue and fun scenes with more profound themes, seamlessly incorporating workplace harassment and sexism without overshadowing the romcom essence. The book's cover and romcom premise may suggest a light read, but Wiesner surprises with depth, portraying Sadie's flaws and growth in an endearing manner. It reminds readers that sometimes, where we are is precisely where we're meant to be. THE SECOND CHANCE YEAR is a sweet and thoughtful journey with compelling character development—a...

Salt & Broom  by  Sharon Lynn Fisher My rating:  5 of 5 stars SALT & BROOM by Sharon Lynn Fisher is a magical retelling of Jane Eyre that captivated me from the start. With witches, fairies, and herbal healing, this imaginative twist on the classic 1847 tale is a must-read for any fan. Jane Aire, a witch from Lowood School, is hired by the enigmatic Edward Rochester to unravel the mysteries of Thornfield Hall. The story seamlessly blends Regency romance and fantasy, breathing fresh life into familiar characters. Fisher's creative portrayal of Jane's background and the banter between Jane and Rochester add depth and charm. The book's breezy writing, steady pacing, and air of mystery kept me eagerly turning pages. SALT & BROOM is a modern classic that left me thoroughly satisfied and uplifted—an enchanting and recommended read. #bookstadog #poodlesofinstagram #doodlesofinstagram #furbabies #dogsofinstagram #bookstagram #dogsandbooks #bookishlife #bookishlove #bo...

Cilka's Journey  by  Heather Morris My rating:  5 of 5 stars CILKA'S JOURNEY by Heather Morris is a poignant and gripping continuation of The Tattooist of Auschwitz series. The book goes beyond the conventional Holocaust tale, delving into Cilka Klein's struggles after the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau. Transported to the Vorkuta Gulag in Siberia, Cilka, charged as a Nazi collaborator, faces a brutal 15-year sentence in one of the coldest places on Earth. Morris skillfully portrays Cilka's resilience, using her wits and beauty to endure the harsh conditions. The narrative is a testament to human strength and the enduring spirit of survivors. Reading about Auschwitz survivors always evokes a deep emotional response, and Morris navigates this with sensitivity. Despite the challenging subject matter, the book is a necessary and powerful tribute to those who triumphed over unimaginable adversity. A well-deserved 5-star rating for its compelling portrayal of history and t...

The Mystery Guest  by  Nita Prose My rating:  5 of 5 stars In THE MYSTERY GUEST by Nita Prose, the delightful return of Molly the Maid at the Regency Grand Hotel unfolds with a riveting murder mystery that kept me hooked from the first page. Prose weaves a tale where Molly's impeccable cleaning skills and keen sense of etiquette collide with a murder most foul, as acclaimed author J.D. Grimthorpe drops dead during a grand announcement. As Detective Stark investigates, suspects multiply, and Molly, now Head Maid, must untangle a web of secrets to salvage the hotel's reputation. Prose's clever use of dual timelines, alternating between Molly's present and her childhood alongside Grimthorpe, adds depth to the narrative. Molly's witty reflections and the wisdom passed down from her late Gran contribute to the book's charm. The storyline's pace is maintained with skillful inclusion of red herrings, keeping readers guessing until the satisfying conclusion. I recom...

The Good Part  by  Sophie Cousens My rating:  5 of 5 stars THE GOOD PART by Sophie Cousens is a delightful exploration of the age-old desire to fast-forward through life's challenges to reach the proverbial 'good part.' Lucy Young, a weary twenty-six-year-old navigating the struggles of her career and personal life, stumbles upon a magical wishing machine that catapults her into an idyllic future. Cousens weaves a charming tale that skillfully combines relatability, wit, and romance. The narrative mirrors the essence of beloved films like "Big" and "13 Going on 30," making it a treat for fans of those classics. The author captures the internal struggle we all face—yearning for a perfect life while recognizing the importance of experiencing and appreciating the journey. Lucy's journey, filled with unexpected twists, resonates with readers, and Cousens showcases her storytelling prowess. THE GOOD PART is a heartwarming, adorable, and brilliantly crafte...

15 Secrets to Survival  by  Natalie D. Richards My rating:  4 of 5 stars 15 SECRETS TO SURVIVAL by Natalie D. Richards is an engaging blend of tween angst, survival challenges, and humor. The story follows Baxter, Abigail, Turner, and Emerson, forced into a wilderness extra credit project. What begins as a team-building weekend takes a thrilling turn when their instructor disappears, leaving them with a survival guide and daunting challenges. The narrative creatively unfolds through questionnaires, injecting a fun dynamic. While aspects of parental decisions may raise eyebrows, the target audience can easily immerse themselves in the exciting plot. Richards successfully weaves a tale of teamwork, mystery, and unexpected surprises in the woods, keeping readers hooked with funny moments and suspense. The book's unique approach and enjoyable storyline make it a delightful read for young audiences. #bookstadog #poodlesofinstagram #doodlesofinstagram #furbabies #dogsofinstagra...