cjeannette's Reviews (602)

Christina Lauren delivers an entertaining escape as an everyday girl gets caught up in the glamorous, drama-filled world of the ultra-rich. The romance is charming, the banter is engaging, and the story has all the makings of a classic feel-good read. While it didn’t completely blow me away, it was an enjoyable, breezy book—great for when you’re in the mood for a fun, lighthearted rom-com. Perfect for fans of the fake dating trope. 

Every reader has that one book series that shaped their childhood, and The Wishing Game captures the magic of that experience perfectly. Lucy's journey of seeing her beloved series come to life is both nostalgic and enchanting. With its touch of whimsy and easy, captivating flow, this book was exactly the lighthearted escape I needed. A delightful read for anyone who’s ever dreamed of stepping into the pages of their favorite stories.

Onyx Storm delivers an unforgettable experience that left me eagerly anticipating what's to come. While the first half had slower pacing, the second half more than made up for it, ramping up the tension and emotional stakes. The rich world-building felt purposeful, laying a strong foundation for future books in the series. I laughed, cried, and sat on the edge of my seat, fully immersed in the twists and turns of the story. A must-read series for fans of gripping and well-crafted romantasy!

Ann Liang's A Song to Drown Rivers was tragically beautiful. Although I wanted more depth and complexity in the characters, the story's gripping suspense compelled me to keep turning the pages. Liang masterfully weaves an air of mystery and melancholy, creating a hauntingly atmospheric tale that lingers long after the final chapter. If you're a fan of bittersweet stories with a touch of intrigue, this one is worth the read.

Emily Henry once again delivers a heartfelt and captivating story with Beach Read. This charming novel expertly balances humor, emotion, and romance, drawing me into the characters' lives in a picturesque setting. As always, Henry's talent for crafting relatable, nuanced characters shines through, making you laugh, cry, and fall in love right along with them. Whether you're new to her work or a devoted fan, Beach Read is a delightful escape that leaves you yearning for more.

Kate Morton’s The Clockmaker’s Daughter is a richly woven tale of love, loss, and mystery that spans centuries, all centered around Birchwood Manor and the lives of those connected to it. The non-linear timeline adds depth to the storytelling, though it was  confusing at times to figure out the narrator. However, the way history intertwines was intriguing, keeping me engaged and guessing. Morton’s twists are skillfully placed, with several moments that had me gasping out loud in surprise. 

Five-Star Stranger follows a rental stranger who carefully crafts an image and persona to achieve his client’s happiness - but keeps real connection out of reach. In today’s overly connected world, loneliness has become so endemic and this story takes a thoughtful look at modern isolation. I had a hard time connecting or empathize with the narrator, which probably was the point. Even though I couldn’t find that connection I typically love in reading, I found the book intriguing and kept on reading.

The Great Alone was deeply moving tale that I was nervous to start knowing full well the emotional roller coaster Kristin would take me on—and she didn’t disappoint on that front but I couldn’t put it down. The story’s portrayal of a mother-daughter relationship was absolutely heart-wrenching, lingering in my thoughts long after I turned the last page. One of my favorite aspects of reading is immersing myself in a time and place I may otherwise never experience and this novel’s vivid depiction of life as a homesteader in Alaska was enthralling. Hannah’s storytelling brings the harsh beauty and raw isolation of the Alaskan wilderness to life in a way that is both mesmerizing and unforgettable.

This was such a fun read! It’s a cozy mystery with just the right sprinkle of romance, perfect for curling up with this winter. I couldn’t put it down—every twist kept me hooked. If you’re into the clever, whodunit vibes of Knives Out but with a festive holiday spin, this one’s a must-read.