Two Dogs and a Book

Ghost Towns of Ontario's Cottage Country  by  Andrew Hind My rating:  4 of 5 stars GHOST TOWNS OF ONTARIO'S COTTAGE COUNTRY by Andrew Hind is a fascinating book that takes readers on a journey through the forgotten communities of Ontario's cottage country. The author expertly weaves together history, personal stories, and awesome photographs to create a compelling narrative that sheds light on these once-thriving villages that have since been abandoned. The book covers a wide range of locales, from farm communities to railway whistle-stops and logging hamlets, each with its own unique story to tell. Hind's writing is both informative and engaging, and readers will appreciate his attention to detail and deep knowledge of the subject matter. The vintage and never-before-published photographs that accompany the text are a particular highlight, transporting readers back in time and providing a vivid glimpse into the lives of those who once inhabited these ghost towns. Some ...

The Connellys of County Down  by  Tracey Lange My rating:  5 of 5 stars THE CONNELLYS OF COUNTY DOWN by Tracey Lange is a riveting and heartwarming story of redemption, family, and love. Lange's skillful writing transports readers into the lives of the Connelly siblings as they navigate their own struggles while trying to hold their family together. Tara Connelly, the main character, is a complex and compelling protagonist whose journey of self-discovery and second chances is both realistic and inspiring. The themes of forgiveness, acceptance, and growth are woven seamlessly into the narrative, making the reader root for Tara and the Connelly family until the very end. Lange's attention to detail and her ability to create fully fleshed-out characters make this novel a truly enjoyable read. I highly recommend this beautiful book to anyone looking for a thought-provoking and heartwarming story about the power of family and love. #bookstadog #poodles #poodlestagram #poodleso...

The Lonely Hearts Book Club  by  Lucy Gilmore My rating:  5 of 5 stars Lucy Gilmore's THE LONELY HEARTS BOOK CLUB is a delightful and charming novel that will leave you feeling uplifted and inspired. The story follows Sloane Parker, a small-town librarian who forms an unlikely friendship with a grumpy old man named Arthur McLachlan. When Arthur falls ill, Sloane creates a book club to bring more joy and companionship into his life. As the club grows, they discover the power of books to connect and heal, and they form a bond that transcends age, gender, and background. The writing is warm and engaging, and the characters are lovable and relatable. I am a sap for multigenerational stories. This book is a touching and hopeful story about the transformative power of friendship and the magic of books. I particularly enjoy the use of the book Anne of Green Gables to communicate their feelings with one of the characters. Highly recommended! #bookstadog #poodles #poodlestagram #p...

The Three Lives of Alix St. Pierre  by  Natasha Lester My rating:  4 of 5 stars Natasha Lester's THE THREE LIVES OF ALIX ST. PIERRE is a riveting tale set during and after World War II. The story follows Alix St. Pierre, a talented PR strategist who is recruited by the US government to work as a spy in Europe. As she navigates dangerous territories and tries to get close to a Nazi who may or may not be a double agent, readers are kept on the edge of their seats. The second part of the book takes place in Paris, where Alix becomes the head of publicity for the House of Dior. However, her past comes back to haunt her when a figure from the war reappears, threatening to ruin everything she has worked for. Throughout the book, Ms. Lester weaves a tale of resilience, courage, and determination that is both heart-wrenching and inspiring. Ms. Lester's writing is engaging, and her characters are well-developed, making it easy for readers to become invested in their stories. This...

Anne of Green Gables  by  L.M. Montgomery My rating:  5 of 5 stars This timeless classic tells the heartwarming story of a young orphan girl who captures the hearts of those around her. The novel is set in the picturesque town of Avonlea, on Prince Edward Island, where Anne Shirley, an imaginative and talkative red-headed girl, is sent to live with the Cuthberts, a middle-aged brother and sister who had intended to adopt a boy to help them with their farm work. Through her eyes, we see the beauty and wonder of the world around us, and we are reminded of the transformative power of love, acceptance, and the human spirit. This book made me laugh many times and reminded me to look at the world with Anne’s eyes when it is gloomy or sad. It is no wonder that even Mark Twain was enamored with Anne. He described her character as “the dearest, most lovable child in fiction since the immortal Alice.” If you have not read this book yet, please do. It is simply a whimsical story. #b...

Some Desperate Glory  by  Emily Tesh My rating:  3 of 5 stars Emily Tesh’s debut novel, SOME DESPERATE GLORY, is a gripping queer space opera that explores themes of vengeance, survival, and the complexity of family relationships in a post-apocalyptic universe. Kyr, the protagonist, is a fierce warrior, haunted by the murder of her home planet and determined to avenge her people. When her brother is assigned to certain death, Kyr rebels against her assigned role as a child-bearer and sets out on a dangerous journey to save him and seek justice. The story is told in three versions of the same event. Tesh's writing is sharp, evocative, and immersive, drawing readers into the richly detailed and intricately constructed world of the Majoda. SOME DESPERATE GLORY is an emotional YA Science Fiction story with strong characters. #bookstadog #poodles #poodlestagram #poodlesofinstagram #furbabies #dogsofinstagram #bookstagram #dogsandbooks #bookishlife #bookishlove #bookstagrammer ...

Oh My Gods!  by  Stephanie Cooke My rating:  3 of 5 stars OH MY GODS! by Stephanie Cooke and Insha Fitzpatrick and illustrated by Juliana Moon is an enjoyable graphic novel that mixes Greek mythology with modern teenage life. The story follows Karen, a regular teenager who suddenly finds herself attending school with gods and goddesses at Mt. Olympus Junior High. The plot is a bit predictable but was entertaining. The illustrations by Juliana Moon are well done and so colourful. The authors do an excellent job of blending Greek mythology with a contemporary setting. This is a fun read that will appeal to younger fans of graphic novels and Greek mythology. #bookstadog #poodles #poodlestagram #poodlesofinstagram #furbabies #dogsofinstagram #bookstagram #dogsandbooks #bookishlife #bookishlove #bookstagrammer #booklover #bookaholic #readersofinstagram #instaread #ilovebooks #bookishcanadians #canadianbookstagram #bookreviewer #bookcommunity #bibliophile #ohmygods #stephanieco...

Take Me Home  by  Gemma Bishop My rating:  4 of 5 stars TAKE ME HOME by Gemma Bishop is a steamy enemies-to-lovers romance novel that takes readers on a thrilling ride. This is the first book in the Near You Series. The story follows Tabitha and her arch-enemy, who are forced to rely on each other to survive after a plane crash leaves them stranded on a remote island. The tension between them is palpable, and as they navigate their new reality, their past comes back to haunt them. Bishop's writing is sexy and descriptive, allowing readers to feel like they're right there with the characters. This is a page-turner that will leave you rooting for the unlikely couple until the very end. #bookstadog #poodles #poodlestagram #poodlesofinstagram #furbabies #dogsofinstagram #bookstagram #dogsandbooks #bookishlife #bookishlove #bookstagrammer #booklover #bookaholic #readersofinstagram #instaread #ilovebooks #bookishcanadians #canadianbookstagram #bookreviewer #bookcommunity #bibli...

The Secret Keeper  by  Kate Morton My rating:  4 of 5 stars THE SECRET KEEPER by Kate Morton is a gripping tale of family secrets and the consequences they bring. The novel follows Laurel, a successful actress, as she delves into her mother's past, trying to unravel a shocking crime she witnessed as a teenager. Morton's writing is vivid and immersive, taking the reader on a journey through pre-WWII England, the blitz, and beyond. The characters are complex and compelling, especially Dorothy, Laurel's mother, whose story is the centerpiece of the novel. The way Morton weaves together the lives of Dorothy, Vivien, and Jimmy is masterful, and the unexpected twists and turns keep the reader guessing until the very end. This is a beautifully written and intricately plotted novel with a fantastic twist that will appeal to fans of historical fiction and family sagas. Morton's ability to create a rich and immersive world, combined with her skillful characterization, makes this ...

Romantic Comedy  by  Curtis Sittenfeld My rating:  4 of 5 stars ROMANTIC COMEDY by Curtis Sittenfeld is an engaging novel that delves into the complexities of love, relationships, and societal expectations. The protagonist, Sally, is a relatable and witty character who struggles to balance her career and love life. The plot is entertaining and highlights the double standards that exist in our society when it comes to beauty and success. Sittenfeld's writing style is engaging and humorous, making the novel a quick and enjoyable read. Although the ending was a bit predictable, the journey to get there was worth it. A caveat though, a big chunk of this book is set during the height of the COVID pandemic and lockdown protocols, so if you're not ready to read a book on the subject, you may want to skip this. Otherwise, I would highly recommend it to fans of romance and contemporary fiction. #bookstadog #poodles #poodlestagram #poodlesofinstagram #furbabies #dogsofinstagram #bo...

Camp Zero  by  Michelle Min Sterling My rating:  1 of 5 stars CAMP ZERO by Michelle Min Sterling is an interesting near-future novel that explores the consequences of climate change and technology on society. In 2049, the elite live in Floating Cities, while others struggle to survive on the mainland with implanted devices that keep them perpetually online. Rose, a hostess (a.k.a. high-end prostitute), accepts an escort job in Camp Zero in northern Canada, where fresh air and cool temperatures offer hope. But as the story unfolds, the utopia is revealed to be more complex than it seems. This book had me hooked from the start. The characters were appealing and the doomsday plot intriguing. But by mid way, this book fell apart and the story never recovered. I was hoping that it would all come together eventually but it only ended with a disappointing and dissatisfying conclusion: Humanity is definitely doomed. #bookstadog #poodles #poodlestagram #poodlesofinstagram #furbabi...

The Echo of Old Books  by  Barbara Davis My rating:  3 of 5 stars THE ECHO OF OLD BOOKS by Barbara Davis is a beautifully written novel that combines mystery, romance, and history. Ashlyn Greer, a rare-book dealer, becomes obsessed with a pair of volumes that seem to have never been published. The books contain conflicting sides of a tragic romance and an incriminating inscription, leaving Ashlyn determined to uncover the truth about the doomed lovers. Ms. Davis weaves together two love stories, separated by time and distance, that eventually intersect in a satisfying conclusion. Ms. Davis also explores the power of books and the emotional connections they create, making this a good read for any book lover. I was going to include some spoiler alerts to my review to explain why I rated this book lower than the majority who read it. There were too many issues to list. If you are interested in discussing this book with me, please PM me. Beautiful quote: “Books are feelings,”...

Maureen  by  Rachel Joyce My rating:  5 of 5 stars MAUREEN by Rachel Joyce is a poignant and powerful novel that tells the story of Harold Fry's wife, Maureen. Set ten years after Harold's pilgrimage, this short book follows Maureen's journey as she sets out to reconnect with the world she has closed herself off from. However, unlike Harold, Maureen is not a natural adventurer. She is outspoken and vulnerable, and she struggles to form bonds with the people she meets along the way. Through beautiful and lyrical prose, Joyce explores themes of love, loss, and the ways in which we come to terms with our past. Maureen's journey is full of warmth and kindness, and her struggles to understand herself and her life are both relatable and moving. The book is a standalone novel, but it is also a fitting finale to the trilogy that began with The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry and continued in The Love Song of Miss Queenie Hennessy. #bookstadog #poodles #poodlestagram #poodleso...

Georgie, All Along  by  Kate Clayborn My rating:  4 of 5 stars GEORGIE, ALL ALONG by Kate Clayborn is a heartwarming and enjoyable novel about a woman who returns to her small Virginia town feeling lost and uncertain about her future. Georgie's once familiar hometown has undergone a transformation, and she must navigate these changes while grappling with her own identity crisis. The discovery of her old high school diary, filled with imaginative tales of her future self, prompts Georgie to examine her current life choices and to confront the missed opportunities of her past. She also meets Levi, a local contractor, who will rock her world even more. Ms. Clayborn's writing is both engaging and introspective. Georgie's character is relatable and endearing, and her journey of self-discovery is both uplifting and empowering. Through Georgie's story, Ms. Clayborn explores themes of identity, self-acceptance, and the power of nostalgia to shape our perceptions of ourselves. #...

Visions of the Crow (Dreams, 1)  by  Wanda John-Kehewin My rating:  4 of 5 stars VISIONS OF THE CROW is the first volume in a graphic novel series by Wanda John-Kehewin and illustrated by nicole marie burton. The book follows Damon Quinn, a Cree-Métis and high school senior, as he navigates the challenges of his everyday life, from dealing with a troubled mother to facing bullying at school. To complicate things further, he is being followed by a mysterious crow, and he is haunted by a waking dream that forces him to confront his past and search for his true identity. The illustrations in this book are beautiful, and set the tone for the emotional journey Damon goes through. VISIONS OF THE CROW is an emotional and thought-provoking graphic novel that tackles difficult subjects with sensitivity and grace. #bookstadog #poodles #poodlestagram #poodlesofinstagram #furbabies #dogsofinstagram #bookstagram #dogsandbooks #bookishlife #bookishlove #bookstagrammer #booklover #booka...

The Circus Train  by  Amita Parikh My rating:  4 of 5 stars THE CIRCUS TRAIN by Amita Parikh takes its readers on a journey through the world of circus, science, and magic, against the backdrop of World War II. Lena, the protagonist, struggles to find her place in a world that places limits on her due to her disability. Despite her father's overprotection, Lena is determined to pursue her passion for science and medicine. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she befriends Alexandre, an orphan with secrets of his own, and becomes separated from her family and everything she knows when Theo and Alexandre are contracted to work and perform in a model town for Jews set up by the Nazis. The book beautifully weaves together elements of friendship, love, betrayal, and hope, as Lena must confront her doubts and believe in herself in the face of adversity. Parikh's writing is awesome, and her characters are interesting, making the reader feel invested in their journey. The Circu...

Anne of West Philly  by  Ivy Noelle Weir My rating:  5 of 5 stars ANNE OF WEST PHILLY is a charming and delightful graphic novel adaptation of L.M. Montgomery's classic novel Anne of Green Gables. Ivy Noelle Weir's writing is engaging and captures the spirit of the original while giving it a fresh and modern twist. Myisha Haynes' illustrations are colorful, expressive, and bring the characters to life in a delightful way. The story follows the red-headed orphan Anne Shirley as she is taken in by the Cuthberts in modern-day West Philadelphia. Anne's big personality and creativity quickly make her popular among her peers, but she also faces challenges in adapting to her new home and family. As Anne navigates new friendships and experiences first love, she also learns the true meaning of family. In a nutshell, ANNE OF WEST PHILLY is a heartwarming and enjoyable graphic novel that is perfect for both fans of the original novel and newcomers to the story. View all my review...

Do Not Say We Have Nothing  by  Madeleine Thien My rating:  5 of 5 stars DO NOT SAY WE HAVE NOTHING is a brilliant masterpiece of historical fiction written by Madeleine Thien. The book tells a heart-wrenching story about the lives of musicians and their families in China during the Cultural Revolution. The characters are so well-crafted and realistic that the reader can't help but become invested in their lives and struggles. Thien's writing is exquisite, with beautiful prose that paints vivid pictures of both the beauty and tragedy of China's history. This book not only entertains but also educates, shedding light on a dark period in China's past that is not widely known. It is a story of resilience, hope, and the power of music to transcend time and distance. DO NOT SAY WE HAVE NOTHING is a must-read for anyone who loves historical fiction and wants to deepen their understanding of China's culture and history. #bookstadog #poodles #poodlestagram #poodlesofinstagr...

The Deadlands: Hunted  by  Skye Melki-Wegner My rating:  4 of 5 stars I was quite excited when Macmillan Children's Publishing Group contacted me and asked if I would be interested in reading and reviewing THE DEADLANDS: HUNTED by Skye Melki-Wegner. It has been a while since I read a middle-grade book and this one sounded very promising. THE DEADLANDS: HUNTED is a heartwarming middle-grade book that follows a group of young dinosaurs who are banished to the Deadlands. Despite the danger, they band together to stop a war between the various dinosaur clans and prove that friendship and unity can conquer all. The book is filled with action, adventure, and humor, making it a page-turner. The characters are endearing and relatable, and the message of standing up for what's right and coming together in the face of adversity is one that will resonate with readers of all ages. This is a must-read for dinosaur lovers and fans of middle-grade fiction alike. #bookstadog #poodles #po...

The Fairy Bargains of Prospect Hill  by  Rowenna Miller My rating:  3 of 5 stars THE FAIRY BARGAINS OF PROSPECT HILL by Rowenna Miller is an enchanting tale that blends folklore, fantasy, and mystery. Set in a world where the Fae exist just beyond the veil, the story follows Alaine Fairborn and her sister Delphine, who use their knowledge of small bargains with the Fae to buy themselves favours. Bargaining with Fae can be tricky and can cost more than you are ready to pay. Miller's writing is beautifully descriptive, evoking a strong sense of place and character. The author skillfully weaves together the mundane and the magical, making the fantastical elements feel grounded in reality. Alaine and Delphine are compelling protagonists who demonstrate strength, resilience, and love for one another. The book's pace was sluggish at first, but picked up in the second half, becoming more engaging and compelling. THE FAIRY BARGAINS OF PROSPECT HILL will appeal to fans of fairy ta...

The Second You're Single  by  Cara Tanamachi My rating:  3 of 5 stars THE SECOND YOU'RE SINGLE by Cara Tanamachi is a delightful romantic comedy about a freelance writer named Sora Reid who is not lucky in love. Sora decided to write a daily piece for the magazine she works for about the benefits of being single in February and entitled it Solo February. Things get complicated when she runs into Jack Mann, a childhood friend, at the local grocery store. Jack is a muscle-bound baker, and Sora finds herself attracted to him despite her beliefs about relationships always ending. This was a fun read with all the usual drama… maybe a bit too much for my taste. It had a similar plot as Exes & O’s by Amy Lea. Overall, it was humorous and heartwarming. #bookstadog #poodles #poodlestagram #poodlesofinstagram #furbabies #dogsofinstagram #bookstagram #dogsandbooks #bookishlife #bookishlove #bookstagrammer #booklover #bookaholic #readersofinstagram #instaread #ilovebooks #bookish...

The Soulmate  by  Sally Hepworth My rating:  4 of 5 stars Sally Hepworth is one of my fav authors. I love her writing style and the unique settings and complex characters she includes in all her books. THE SOULMATE has all that. It is a gripping thriller that centers on Gabe and Pippa, a couple who move into their dream home, a charming cottage on a cliff in a quiet coastal town. However, their idyllic life is shattered when people begin to use the cliff as a popular spot to commit suicide. Gabe becomes a hero, talking people off the ledge night after night, until he fails to save someone. When Pippa discovers that Gabe knew the victim, she starts to question everything. As the plot unfolds, the secrets of their seemingly perfect marriage are exposed, and the reader is left to wonder who is telling the truth. I have been following Ms. Hepworth’s IG account and enjoy her family life posts. I recognise some of her husband’s personality in Gabe (the addiction to online shopp...