Two Dogs and a Book

Love and Other Words  by  Christina Lauren My rating:  5 of 5 stars LOVE AND OTHER WORDS by Christina Lauren indulges the heart with a second-chance romance that's equal parts angsty and heartwarming. Despite its occasional slower pace, the desire to uncover the mystery behind Macy and Elliot's decade-long separation keeps you captivated. Childhood friends turned soulmates, their love story is rich with emotion and depth. The book's exploration of their unbreakable bond, intertwined with their shared love for books, is both endearing and relatable. Macy's hesitance to confront her past feelings frustrates but eventually resonates, given the revelation of her reasons. The authors masterfully balance angst with tender moments, allowing the protagonists' reconnection to unfold organically. This slow-burn, genuine love tale satisfies the craving for a meaningful narrative that transcends mere lust. A heartfelt nod to falling in love with a best friend, LOVE AND OTHER WO...

It's Fall!  by  Renaee Kurilla My rating:  5 of 5 stars IT'S FALL by Renée Kurilla is an enchanting children's book that radiates the joys of the autumn season. Bursting with vibrant colors and playful verse, it encapsulates the essence of fall's magic. The pages come alive with images of leaf-filled escapades, cozy scarves, and delightful treats. From corn mazes to trick-or-treating, this book captures every cherished fall activity. The simplicity of the rhymes, accompanied by captivating illustrations, makes it an absolute gem. Notably, the book's inclusivity adds an extra layer of warmth. Reading it feels like a celebration of the season's wonders. A delightful addition to any child's collection, IT'S FALL is destined to become a cherished favorite, capturing the hearts of both young readers and their grown-ups alike. I can't wait to read this one to my grandson! #bookstadog #poodlesofinstagram #doodlesofinstagram #furbabies #dogsofinstagram #book...

Giraffe Math  by  Stephen Swinburne My rating:  4 of 5 stars GIRAFFE MATH by Stephen Swinburne, gorgeously illustrated by Geraldo Valério, ingeniously merges learning with adventure. Twiga the giraffe embarks on a captivating journey, skillfully intertwining math concepts and captivating giraffe trivia. Ideal for young minds and fans of educational picture books, it's a vibrant STEM exploration through measurements, graphs, shapes, and word problems, all wrapped in the fascinating world of giraffes.Valério's illustrations beautifully engage young readers, capturing the majesty of giraffes while emphasizing their distinctive attributes. Despite its remarkable content, a drawback for Canadian readers lies in the exclusive use of the imperial system initially. However, the author's conversion table at the end offers a remedy. For an immersive and educational experience that both children, parents, and grandparents will relish, GIRAFFE MATH is an enchanting addition to any yo...

A Smile in a Whisper  by  Jacquelyn Middleton My rating:  4 of 5 stars A SMILE IN A WHISPER by Canadian author, Jacquelyn Middleton, is an emotional journey that beautifully weaves together second chances, first love, and the challenges of living with chronic illness. Evie Sutherland's life on the picturesque Orkney Islands is a tapestry of resilience as she manages her family's shop, navigates friendships, and battles Crohn's Disease. Middleton deftly captures the intricacies of Evie's struggles and triumphs, allowing readers to empathize with her daily challenges. The book takes a poignant turn when Evie crosses paths with Nick Balfour, a former flame who vanished from her life. The alternating past and present timelines enrich the narrative, showcasing the characters' growth and the lasting impact of summer memories. Middleton's vivid descriptions of Orkney make the setting come alive, immersing readers in the romance and nostalgia. A SMILE IN A WHISPER is a ...

The Last Heir to Blackwood Library  by  Hester Fox My rating:  3 of 5 stars In THE LAST HEIR TO BLACKWOOD LIBRARY, Hester Fox masterfully transports readers to World War I England, where Ivy Radcliffe inherits the enigmatic Blackwood Abbey. Fox's skillful storytelling weaves an intricate tapestry of mystery and fantasy, as Ivy navigates a foreboding estate, mysterious servants, and the heart of the tale—a captivating library that beckons with both familiarity and the unknown. Amidst whispers of curses and ghosts, Ivy's journey becomes an exploration of memory and female empowerment, all set against a lush gothic backdrop. Fox's ability to seamlessly blend history, the supernatural, and emotional depth shines through. While navigating Ivy's post-war loneliness, Fox draws readers into the shadows of Blackwood Abbey, evoking an eerie ambiance that's both haunting and enchanting. While some plot elements left me wanting more and some left me perplexed, I enjoyed this no...

Bring Me Your Midnight  by  Rachel Griffin My rating:  4 of 5 stars BRING ME YOUR MIDNIGHT by Rachel Griffin is a captivating tale that weaves together duty, forbidden love, and the allure of magic. Tana Fairchild's fate seemed sealed – a strategic marriage to the governor's son to unite her witch coven with the mainlanders. But when she misses a crucial ritual, everything unravels. Enter Wolfe, from a coven of high magic, offering forbidden power and a sense of aliveness. As the sea rages and alliances teeter, Tana faces a heart-wrenching choice between love and duty. Griffin's signature cozy nature witch ambiance shines, with an atmospheric narrative that envelops readers. While the pacing occasionally falters, the interplay of plot and romance remains strong. BRING ME YOUR MIDNIGHT stands as another testament to Griffin's skill, ensuring her place as an auto-buy author. #bookstadog #poodlesofinstagram #doodlesofinstagram #furbabies #dogsofinstagram #bookstagram #dogs...

Dead and Gone  by  Joanna Schaffhausen My rating:  4 of 5 stars DEAD AND GONE by Joanna Schaffhausen delivers an intense and riveting tale that keeps readers hooked from start to finish. Schaffhausen's skillful storytelling paints a complex web of intrigue and mystery. The protagonist, Annalisa Vega, a determined Chicago police detective, shines as a relatable and multi-dimensional character. Supported by a cast of compelling characters, including the enigmatic ex-husband and partner, Detective Nick Carelli, the narrative blends personal struggles with a relentless murder investigation. The book's multifaceted plotlines intertwine seamlessly, maintaining a relentless tension that escalates with each turn of the page. As Vega races against time to save her niece from a dangerous stalker, she's confronted with personal revelations that add emotional depth to the story. DEAD AND GONE stands on its own as an enthralling read, skillfully integrating backstory for new readers w...