Two Dogs and a Book

Happy Place  by  Emily Henry My rating:  5 of 5 stars HAPPY PLACE by Emily Henry takes readers on an unexpected emotional roller coaster. At first glance, you might expect a cute and fluffy romance, but this book goes far deeper. It tugs at your heartstrings and brings tears to your eyes. The juxtaposition of the title and the cover with the heart-wrenching story is both clever and deceptive. Despite the pain that unfolds within these pages, reading HAPPY PLACE is an incredibly enjoyable experience. It feels like participating in a giant buddy read with the entire Goodreads community. I was completely engrossed and never wanted it to end. Be warned, though: this book will make you sob uncontrollably. The final chapters are particularly gut-wrenching, but they provide the closure you desperately need. HAPPY PLACE exceeded my expectations and became one of my most anticipated reads of 2023. Emily Henry has once again proven herself as a phenomenal author who knows how to de...

Will They or Won't They  by  Ava Wilder My rating:  4 of 5 stars WILL THEY OR WON'T THEY by Ava Wilder is an enjoyable read that combines co-star dynamics, second-chance romance, and enemies-to-lovers tropes. This was my first foray into Wilder's writing, and I was impressed enough to consider exploring her other works in the future. The Hollywood setting added an enticing energy to the story, and I found myself fully invested in the chemistry between the main characters, Lilah and Shane. While I appreciated the engaging plot, the presence of the miscommunication trope prevented me from awarding it a perfect score. Nevertheless, the book was a satisfying read, and I wholeheartedly recommend it to fans of contemporary romance. 📝 Favourite line: " His favorite aunt, the one who'd been married five times (but to only three different husbands)." #bookstadog #poodlesofinstagram #doodlesofinstagram #furbabies #dogsofinstagram #bookstagram #dogsandbooks #bookishlife...

A Love Catastrophe  by  Helena Hunting My rating:  4 of 5 stars A LOVE CATASTROPHE by Helena Hunting is a delightful rom-com that will leave readers with a warm and fuzzy feeling. Set in Terra Cotta and in Toronto, this sweet and swoon-worthy novel follows the hilarious and charming journey of Kitty Hart, the renowned Kitty Whisperer, and the grumpy hockey analyst, Miles Thorn. The author skillfully weaves together beloved tropes like a disastrous meet-cute, opposites attract, and friends-to-lovers, creating a recipe of happiness that is hard to resist. Kitty is a lovable and quirky heroine, while Miles is the brooding and stressed hero who hires her to take care of his mother's mischievous cat. As their paths intertwine, their differences become apparent, but their chemistry is undeniable. The book explores sensitive topics such as grief and cyberbullying, adding depth to the characters' emotional journeys. What sets this book apart is the genuine and heartfelt love stor...

A Death at the Party  by  Amy Stuart My rating:  4 of 5 stars This book is a captivating domestic neighborhood suspense that takes place over the course of a single day. The story begins with Nadine stumbling upon a lifeless body in her basement while a lively garden party continues upstairs. The narrative then takes us back to the morning, as Nadine prepares for her mother's birthday celebration alongside her friends and family. Throughout the day, Nadine's thoughts drift to events that occurred thirty years earlier, unraveling a web of secrets held by everyone involved. The short chapters make for a brisk read, and the author skillfully weaves together multiple plot threads. The twists are well-executed, with the identity of the body remaining a mystery until the end. Recommended for fans of intricately plotted domestic neighborhood suspense novels, though it is not a traditional thriller. #dogsofinstagram #bookstagram #dogsandbooks #bookishlife #bookishlove #bookstagra...

Skin of the Sea  by  Natasha Bowen My rating:  5 of 5 stars SKIN OF THE SEA by Natasha Bowen is a breathtakingly beautiful book that immerses readers in a world unlike any other. Simi, the protagonist, is a relatable and endearing character, her longing for something unattainable resonating with readers on a deep level. Bowen's exploration of Black culture is woven seamlessly into the narrative, from the vivid descriptions of scenery to the captivating customs and folklore. The story itself is a thrilling and gripping adventure, filled with danger and suspense at every turn. The writing is enchanting and evocative, making it impossible to put the book down. Although the cliffhanger ending leaves readers eager for more, the journey is well worth the wait. SKIN OF THE SEA is a must-read for YA enthusiasts who crave a blend of romance, culture, and thrilling escapades. Prepare to be enchanted. #dogsofinstagram #bookstagram #dogsandbooks #bookishlife #bookishlove #bookstagram...

Waves  by  Ingrid Chabbert My rating:  5 of 5 stars WAVES, written by Ingrid Chabbert and beautifully illustrated by Carole Maurel, is a deeply personal and poetic graphic novel that explores the profound journey of a young couple trying to conceive. Drawing from the author's own experience, the story delves into the emotional depths of heartbreak, resilience, and the power of hope. The use of metaphors in Waves is exceptional, creating a mesmerizing reading experience. Chabbert skillfully weaves together the themes of writing, coping, and healing, forming a profound connection between the protagonist's pain and her quest for renewal. The dreamlike illustrations by Carole Maurel add an ethereal touch to the narrative, particularly in the visual depiction of the boat and waves of paper. While the subject matter is emotionally intense, WAVES is an extraordinary work that invites readers to embrace vulnerability and contemplate the complexities of life. I highly recommend th...

The Wishing Game  by  Meg Shaffer My rating:  5 of 5 stars THE WISHING GAME by Meg Shaffer is a delightful and heartwarming novel that will enchant readers from start to finish. The story revolves around Lucy Hart, a young woman who finds solace in books, particularly the Clock Island series by the reclusive author Jack Masterson. When Jack resurfaces with a brand-new book and a contest, Lucy's life takes an unexpected turn. Meg Shaffer's writing is beautifully captivating, filled with passages that resonate with book lovers. The author effectively portrays the transformative power of books, taking readers on a journey where characters' lives are shaped by their love for reading. The book exudes a charming Charlie and the Chocolate Factory vibe, which adds to its whimsical appeal. The exploration of themes like family, love, wishes, and finding one's home is done with depth and grace. The characters are well-developed, and their backstories add layers of complexity and ...

Hello Stranger  by  Katherine Center My rating:  4 of 5 stars HELLO STRANGER by Katherine Center follows Sadie, a portrait artist who is struck with acquired apperceptive prosopagnosia, or face blindness, just as she's experiencing a significant breakthrough in her career. Center skillfully weaves together a romantic tale as Sadie finds herself torn between two very different men. While romance is a central theme, the book goes beyond that, exploring themes of personal growth, resilience, and the importance of letting go. Center's writing is captivating, and I found myself fully immersed in Sadie's journey. The author's meticulous research shines through, as she vividly describes Sadie's experiences, allowing readers to easily visualize them. Humor plays a significant role in the book, helping Sadie navigate her challenges, and adding to the overall enjoyment of the story. I particularly appreciated how the plot unfolded, with a satisfying ending that didn't dim...

The Spectacular  by  Fiona Davis My rating:  5 of 5 stars THE SPECTACULAR by Fiona Davis lives up to its title in every way. This captivating historical fiction transports readers to 1950s New York City, where nineteen-year-old Marion's dreams of becoming a Rockette collide with the terror of the Big Apple Bomber. The story weaves together Marion's personal struggles, her passion for dancing, the intensity of the manhunt, and a compelling romantic subplot. Fiona Davis skillfully brings the sights and sounds of Radio City Music Hall to life, making readers feel as though they're watching the story unfold on the big screen. The precision and artistry of the Rockettes' performances are vividly portrayed, highlighting the immense pressure and dedication required. The bombings and the subsequent investigation draw unsettling parallels to current events, emphasizing the themes of greed, ignorance, and the urgent need for action. Marion's determination to uncover the truth...