ambershelf's Reviews (1.3k)

MY MEN is translated from Norwegian and based on the true story of Brynhild (Belle) Gunness, 19th-century America's most notorious serial killer. However, this book takes a departure from the typical grisly and chilling nature of mystery thrillers and offers an introspective narrative of Belle's inner thoughts.

MY MEN immerses readers in Belle's mind, presenting a narrative that feels like a fever dream. While I was expecting a spine-tingling experience (that will terrify me to use the bathroom at night

When Kitty Karr Tate, a famous white actress, dies and leaves her multimillion-dollar estate to the St. John sisters, three young & wealthy Black women, the world has a lot of questions. While sorting Kitty's affairs, Elise St. John, a successful actress in her own right, discovers Kitty's journal that threatens to upend the late star's legacy and, more importantly, Elise's whole world.

Alternating between Kitty's rise to stardom in the past and Elise's discoveries in the present, DID YOU HEAR provides an intriguing comparison between the two women's choices when they succeed in Hollywood. As readers navigate the twists and turns of their lives, it becomes clear that both actors are faced with difficult decisions and sacrifices.

I appreciate the candid discussion of racism within the Hollywood industry. Paul deftly explores the challenges faced by actors of color, shedding light on the prejudices and obstacles they encountered during different eras.

I find myself captivated by Kitty's POV with her compelling narrative. However, Elise's perspective in the present day falls slightly short in comparison, and I feel that it could use a bit more editing work, especially toward the end. DID YOU HEAR also reads like a book written for screen adaptations at times. While vivid descriptions bring the glitz and glamour of old Hollywood to life, some scenes happen quickly and lack the emotional depth one might expect from the characters.

Overall, DID YOU HEAR is an entertaining and unputdownable read for fans of Hollywood glamor and secrets. The novel's strength lies in its ability to transport readers to the golden age of Hollywood while delving into essential themes of power, freedom, and race.

Kathy, Ruth, and Tommy attended Hailsham, the pleasant English boarding school, and grew up in a well-supported environment, even though the students were allowed little contact with the outside world. The trio doesn't fully realize the truth behind Hailsham until graduating from school. And when they look back upon their youth, Kathy finally understands their experience and what Hailsham truly is.

NEVER is a thought-provoking and hauntingly beautiful novel that kept me hooked from start to finish. Despite knowing what was going to happen, I was still fascinated by how Ishiguro connected the seemingly meandering writing to the final reveal. The slow and subtle unveiling of information kept me engaged and invested in the story.

Though there isn't a big twist, Ishiguro's writing still captivates the readers. The eerie atmosphere of the novel added to the overall feeling of unease, and I found myself projecting my own emotions onto the characters. The beauty of Ishiguro's writing lies in the way it keeps the reader waiting for the other shoe to drop.

Interestingly, while many people said they cried while reading this book, I did not shed a single tear. This is so odd for me, considering I'm a HUGE crybaby when it comes to reading (and pretty much everything else in life

Twelve interconnected characters from indigenous communities travel to the Big Oakland Powwow, each battling their past ghosts while finding their places in a hostile world. There is Dene Oxendene, who carries his uncle's legacy of recording Native stories, fourteen-year-old Orvil performing a traditional dance for the first time, and a chorus of other individuals exploring what it means to be an "Urban Indian."

THERE THERE is a powerful tribute to the indigenous culture and community. The prologue and interlude moved me the most, where Orange covered the history of indigenous people being cheated, displaced, and massacred. While brief, the message was powerful and unforgettable, and I find myself returning to these passages repeatedly.

I also appreciate the character summary at the beginning of the book, as it would've been a struggle for me to remember all the characters, especially in such a short book

Thank you to Berkley for the gifted copy.

After inheriting their grandmother's PR agency and struggling to keep the doors open, sisters Libby and Hannah have one last summer to stay afloat. But when an eccentric self-help guru seeks out the duo as a potential new client, the sisters jump on to the opportunity to save their grandmother's legacy. There's just one catch, Libby and Hannah must complete a 12-week "Crush Your Comfort Zone" program first. Will this be the summer when the sisters finally face their demons and make a comeback?

COMEBACK SUMMER is a quick and light story perfect for those looking for a lighthearted read. I adore the relationships between Libby & Hannah, especially the unconventional flip of the outgoing and carefree firstborn vs the anxious and careful youngest daughter. There are also plenty of representations of Jewish culture & food, a plus-size protagonist, mental health topics, and second-chance romance.

While a lighter read, I appreciate how COMEBACK SUMMER explores what it's like living with mental illness through a realistic lens and examines the journey of a plus-sized woman working out not to lose weight but to push boundaries and become stronger. Through Libby and Hannah, COMEBACK SUMMER probes why and how fear holds us back from pursuing happiness, and encourages the readers to find our inner strength.