A really beautiful and honest personal story. It has made me consider my own identity, and “inheritance.” I look forward to reading more from Dani Shapiro.

Ugh.... I really wanted to like this one. I did like Robyn’s story and was intrigued by her journey but I kept wanting MORE. I needed some background information, motivation, reason behind her choices. I didn’t emotionally connect with Robyn or her animals. I was expecting something inspirational and soulful like other memoirs I love, but this seemed more plot-driven.

I actually read about 80% of the book and I’m going to watch the movie.

Wowzers... this one punched me in the gut. I didn’t really know what to expect, other than a story about a dog, and I was definitely not expecting horrific treatment of dogs! Some parts of this book very very dificult to read, but I loved Buck’s tale. I was intrigued by London’s description of “the call” and references to Darwin and survival of the fittest. A very enthralling story and lesson on the true nature of man’s best friend.

What an epic tale! We see the evolution of a wolf-dog from birth to adulthood, from being a wild animal to a tame pet. London’s understanding of animals and their nature and instincts is unparalleled.

This was a fun read, but I didn’t buy into all of the magical principles. It all seeemd a bit random to me and didn’t spend enough time world-building. But I did enjoy Sophie and Howl’s relationship development and how all of the characters came together in the end.

4.5 Stars.... I want to give this one 5 because of how it made me feel and how I never wanted to put it down, but it had a few easy to overlook flaws. My experience with this one was emotional, compelling, heart-wrenching, and thrilling. It reminded me of some of my own experiences which made all the feels even more real.

3.5 ⭐️
This story took a while to get going for me, and I was unsure how the protagonist, Texas Ranger Darren Matthews, fit in, but once it all started coming together I was interested. It was more of a slow build than suspenseful for me, but I didn’t predict the ending. I would read the next/upcoming book with Ranger Matthews.

4.5 ⭐️

Wow, what a story! As heartbreaking and hard to read as it was, I was so invested in Lily’s journey and struggle with an abusive partner. I was even more impressed that Colleen Hoover wrote this book based on her mother’s life and real experiences. All the feels.