February Book Review
February was a month marked by love—of travel, of people, of BOOKS! So far, friends, I am making super-good on my commitment to ensure this is my ultimate reading year. Already in 2023, I have felt that feeling again. That spark. That passion! For reading, for pages, for storytelling. I am on a voracious hunt for only the top-shelf gold—so pretty-please, readers, keep me posted on what blows you away! Obvs I will do the same.
In reflecting further on the past few lackluster years of my reading life—and considering why I am finding more joy in it now—I’ve identified a few simple things I’m either changing or keeping in mind:
1. “If a book isn’t a classroom, don’t waste your time.” Karen Kingsbury said this at a writing conferenced I attended in 2021, and it truly stuck. Unfortunately, there are a lot of poor-quality books out there. If I try the Kindle sample, or give it a browse at the bookstore, and the writing isn’t superb or the story doesn’t seem fresh in some way, I’m not wasting my time (or yours)! Reading makes you a better writer, but only if the writing is GOOD. If it’s meh, it’s a no from me, dog.
2. I’m being more careful with my selections. I can promise you I am not reading books just because they are hyped, at least not as my norm! On one hand, sometimes, yes, I see this this as part of my job as a writer: to keep a pulse on what’s selling, and why. Occasionally I will read a bestselling book just to see what the fuss is about. But as a habit, I am working on reading more for the quality, lessons, enjoyment, experience—than for checking it off my list. No impulse-Amazon-buying all the literary hot potatoes just because everyone else is doing it. I’m doing more recon on my reads beforehand and being pickier overall.
3. I’m reading what I want!!! Simple, right? Except for always reading what my Book Club assigns, even if I wouldn’t normally pick it, I’m reading what brings me joy! (That is, by the way, the beauty of Book Club.) Whatever my trip, mood, evening, or weekend calls for, I’m in. I hope everyone does the same. Read what speaks to your soul! Remember that one person’s DNF (did not finish) is another person’s favorite book of all time. Literally. Life is too short to read books you don’t like! I might print that on a shirt!
All right, folks. Monthly bookish rambling out of the way; now onto this month’s five reviews!
I adored all of these to the moon. In no particular order, except saving Prince Harry for last because my gosh, I have so much to say…
Here. you. go!!!
I’m starting off with my fluffiest read of the month! Nora, you’re a delight! This is the smart chick-lit book you need for that girly getaway, afternoon by the pool, or rare hour all by yourself. Divorced romance screenwriter Nora finds herself in a most unusual circumstance after her gorgeous home serves as the set for the film of her own life story: also the smash hit that might turn her world and her luck around. When sizzling movie star Leo decides to stay with Nora awhile in the wake of his mother’s death, nothing is ever the same for lovable, observant, self-aware, practical Nora. Hallmark mashes up with People’s ‘Sexiest Man Alive’—with a touch of The Bodyguard by Katherine Center—in this delicious hometown-meets-Hollywood ride. I adored it. I thought Nora was a down-to-earth, wonderful character, and I fully enjoyed my time in her orbit as she pieced herself (and her life) back together. Leo the smoke show didn’t hurt either! 4.5 stars of happiness.
Who else read Tell Me Lies? Who also devoured the Hulu series like the salty popcorn it was? Who further still had to know what else this author has written?! Just me? Okay, that’s cool! Actually, yes, while I did wonder what else the genius of Carola Lovering has penned, Can’t Look Away (a standalone novel) technically found me via my Kindle recommendations. Spoiler Alert: A+ targeting!!! I absolutely loved this book, maybe even more than Tell Me Lies. It’s about young wife and mother Molly, her dreamy musician ex-love, and Molly’s friendly new BFF who might not be as innocent as she claims. Part domestic suspense, part romance, and hefty chunk juicy love triangle (square?), this story yanked me right in and did not let go. The writing is fast-paced and dripping with intrigue. I flew through it. I became consumed with the characters and their backstory, plus what their futures might hold. It’s the perfect addictive read for a cozy day. A few things at the end felt a little far-fetched, but I didn’t even care! That’s how much I loved it. I found the conclusion both heartfelt and super satisfying. Five stars! It’s exactly the mysterious and page-turning read I’m always craving.
Remember when I read Pretty Girls last year and raved about it with all of my being, while also giving the mega caveat that it’s NOT for the faint of heart? Ooooof, guys. WOWWW. I found my Pretty Girls of this year, and I know it will be in my favorites of 2023. This book is positively incredible, while also deeply dark and disturbing. The 33,796 Amazon reviews do not lie about its magnificence or its heft. It’s a broiling mystery set in small-town Minnesota that kept me up well past my already-late bedtime. Author Jess Laurey’s writing crackles with both horror and heartfelt character development as she reimagines the disappearance and murder of two young girls in the 1970s. Teenage girl angst, coming-of-age curiosity, underground tunnels, family lies, friendship ties, and dark atmospheric magic coalesce into a smash hit if I’ve ever read one! I loved this book SO much. It’s one of those rare works of art that leaves me sad that I never again get to read it for the first time. Go read it now, thriller lovers! Five stars. The writing is exceptional. I took many notes on her stunning descriptions. Trigger warnings for violence, sex, and more.
This book is a marvel! I Have Some Questions for You is one of those books that I ordered because I saw it on maybe 10 “Most Anticipated Reads of 2023” lists. I also have many trusted friends who love the author’s work. In my forever quest to read the kind of books that make me a better writer, I knew this would fit the bill. AND IT DID. But know that this is literary fiction. It’s not easy, breezy, a crowd pleaser, necessarily. That said, I was pleasantly surprised by how timely, fast, fresh, and entertaining it was! Popular true crime podcaster Bodie returns to her high school prep academy decades later, on a teaching assignment—only to find herself renewed with obsession over the long-ago murder of her roommate, Thalia. Done. I’m so into that plot!
The writing in this book is just glorious. I stopped many times just to savor the narrative. I also loved the structure and plot. One thing to note is that in the first chapter or two, I was convinced I would not like the book! “I’m not going to enjoy this character. Her life choices are already annoying me. Also, I have a feeling this book is going to shove an agenda at me.” Trust that this book does tackle a lot of big issues—and I mean, a lot. If that bothers you, you will hate this one! #MeToo, racial discrimination, predation, drugs, true crime as entertainment, and more. I personally felt it all to be balanced—presenting the issues and leaving us to decide. Asking questions, really, and making me think. I became obsessed myself with Thalia’s murder and HAD TO KNOW WHAT HAPPENED TO HER. By the last third especially, I was reading faster than light. This is an exceptional book, and I give it 4.5 stars—knocking a bit only because I wanted more from the ending. It left me a little unsatisfied while still enamored with the fun ride.
My, my, Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, and the pot you have stirred! Did we ever think in a million years that the rebellious little redhead smirking adorably on our tabloids would shake up the crown like he has? Well, maybe we did! Or maybe we should have. Since we are all (mostly) all-too familiar by now with the drama surrounding Harry and Meghan’s decision to flee the castle and start a new life in the U.S., I will keep my review to the memoir at hand, voiced by our second-born prince with the help of a talented ghostwriter (well done, J.R. Moehringer)!
First, the nickname/term “spare” alone makes me scrunch my nose. What must it have felt like, consciously or not, to know you are just that: the spare to the heir?! Harry seemed to be destined for issues from his first breath. Secondly, as I shared on Instagram, this was my Book Club’s first read of 2023, and I am so glad it was. My favorite picks are always the one with the most opinions and vibrant discussions. I’m so thankful for the gift of a safe place to hash out our thoughts and perspectives!
If I had to summarize my thoughts on the whole situation, I would quote my friend Marci who pointed out that everybody wants everybody to pick a side on the whole thing: Are you Team William or Team Harry?! Do you hate Meghan Markle or love her?! There’s no in between! Marci said, “I’m Team Sadness! It’s all just sad. I honestly feel for everyone.”
This is totally how I feel. I’m sad because the brothers are at major odds, to understate it, and time will tell if they’ll ever have restoration. I’m sad because no matter how you slice it, this would’ve made their mama sad, too. I’m sad because I seriously think, for that blink of time, that Meghan Markle was the most perfect royal, and that she is indeed a lot like Princess Diana, at least from the outside: philanthropic, classy, beautiful, warm—I even loved that she wasn’t the “typical” princess, and I thought this was great for the world.
Admittedly I had a huge crush on Prince Harry in childhood, and adored Meghan Markle in Suits, way before all this. From afar, I like them as people. Now. Do I think they need to chill with the spill tour already? Um, yes. Do I think their recent extremely public actions seem to contradict their desire for privacy? Of course. Do I also think that—for whatever complex reasons, misguided or not—they genuinely feel that all of this (Netflix, book deals, etc.) was the proper way to finally take the proverbial stand and proclaim their side of things? I do. I think in their minds they felt they needed to this. I mean, obviously, right? Here we are!
Wait a minute!!!
I was supposed to keep my review to the memoir… and I haven’t done that at all. LOL. So, I will wrap this up by saying that I absolutely enjoyed this book by Prince Harry and give it a solid four stars. It’s looooong, no doubt. You will learn a lot about his time in the army, especially, but this is a side to him with which I wasn’t familiar, so I appreciated it. Additionally, I truly felt for Harry as the little boy who lost his mom (and remain surprised that he and William weren’t given more resources/support)—and I felt for him later in the miserable situation of intermediary between throne and bride. Family dynamics are always complex; can you even imagine?! I loved the parts about Harry falling in love with Meghan, and wanted more of their story! I really do think they are soul mates. I can’t wait to see what is next for them, and I hope it’s a happy ending. Deep in my heart, I also can’t help but hope he and William find healing one day. A girl can dream!
OK, that was long, and there’s still so much more I could say! I know this isn’t the one-sided review that many will give, but it’s my personal take. I hope the best for Prince Harry and Meghan and their beautiful little family, and also for the future of the British monarchy and all who enter its gates. Prince Harry’s memoir was fascinating and entertaining to me. I really savored it as a piece of modern-day history and highly recommend it to anyone who feels invested in this real-life drama.
Until next time!!!!!
Based in Orange County, California, Stephanie Mack is a longtime writer, wife to one, and mom of three little girls. She has been blogging at MOMentary Insanity® since 2014. Her work has also been featured on Scary Mommy, Faithit, Coffee + Crumbs, and more. She holds a Master of Professional Writing degree from USC. When We Blinked is her debut novel.
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In 2024, one specific piece of writing advice has persisted in reaching my ears. Through the Booked Solid podcast, landing my dream agent, and my ever-trustworthy author friends, the message echoes: Get out of the slush pile.