bookbeforeuleap's reviews
863 reviews


 

"Nesting" by Roisín O'Donnell is a powerful and emotionally gripping novel that left a lasting impact on me. This debut novel introduces us to Ciara Fay, a courageous woman who makes the heart-wrenching decision to flee her home with her two young daughters to escape an abusive marriage. O'Donnell's writing is both beautiful and haunting, capturing the raw emotions and resilience of a mother fighting for a better life
The novel explores themes of survival, motherhood, and the harsh realities of homelessness, all while maintaining a sense of hope and determination. The characters are incredibly well-developed, and the story is both tense and inspiring, making it impossible to put down.
If you're looking for a book that will move you and make you think, "Nesting" is an absolute must-read


 
funny slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

 

Broken Country
by Clare Leslie Hall had been buzzing around the bookstagram world for months, with so many readers raving about it, and I couldn’t wait to dive in. The story promises a mix of unresolved past loves, buried secrets, and suspenseful twists, all set against a backdrop of mystery and courtroom drama. While I wouldn’t necessarily label it a traditional thriller, the tension and intrigue are undeniable.
I went into it expecting a raw, emotional, and twist-filled journey, but honestly, it didn’t hit me on that deeper level I was hoping for. It felt a bit surface-level for my taste, and I didn’t connect with the story as much as I anticipated. That said, I know I’m definitely in the minority here — so many readers have been deeply moved by it, and I can totally see why it resonates with others. If you’re into stories with buried secrets and suspenseful drama, this one might just be your next great read! 


 
emotional funny hopeful medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: Complicated

If you're a fan of forbidden romance and secret relationships, this book will have you hooked. It blends emotional tension with the struggle of balancing personal dreams and unexpected love. Cole and Ginger's relationship is one to root for — built on years of history rather than the usual instalove. The depth of their connection makes their story feel authentic and truly heartwarming. And let's not forget Ginger’s bond with Cole’s daughter, Mable — their relationship adds such a sweet, meaningful layer to the plot.

Now, I’ll admit that friends-to-lovers isn’t usually my go-to trope, but this one totally won me over. The flashbacks to their younger years really help you understand the evolution of their relationship, and their playful baseball rivalry is just too cute. If you’re a fan of authors like Elsie Silver or Lucy Score, this one’s definitely worth picking up.