“Courage is the root of change—and change is what we’re chemically designed to do. So when you wake up tomorrow, make this pledge. No more holding yourself back. No more subscribing to others’ opinions of what you can and cannot achieve. And no more allowing anyone to pigeonhole you into useless categories of sex, race, economic status, and religion. Do not allow your talents to lie dormant, ladies. Design your own future. When you go home today, ask yourself what you will change. And then get started.”

Lessons in Chemistry is a fantastic character-driven novel centering on Elizabeth Zott, a female chemist in the male-dominated ‘50s and ‘60s. Bonnie Garmus does an excellent job depicting the life of an intelligent, capable, independent woman in that time period, including the very real sexism experienced at every turn. The beginning of this book is laugh-out-loud funny, but quickly delves deeper as the book progresses. I absolutely love the strong feminist mindset that Elizabeth has, and also that she’s so literal and no-nonsense. Her dog, Six-Thirty, is a shining star in this book, and his perspective is a really fun addition to this story. Lessons in Chemistry has already been picked up by AppleTV and I can’t wait to watch!

Thanks you Doubleday Books for the copy of this ARC!

“‘You’re talking about a slave? All this waiting, risking my fortune for a bloody slave.’

The way he’s talking hardens me. I don’t like hearing him call her a slave. It’s what she is, but it’s not who she is, and the word grates in my ears. ‘I’m taking her with me.’”

A More Perfect Union was a very unique and intriguing continuation of historical fiction and romance. I couldn’t put it down! The alternating points of view were fantastically done, adding to the insight given into the lives of slaves and a poor Irishman in mid-1800s America. These characters will capture your heart and you’ll be cheering for them the whole time. This story is based on the true story of the author’s great-great grandparents, which I just think is so amazing. This is truly an epic love story and so well written by Tammye Huf!

Thank you to Forever for this gifted copy.

“I stared at him. He stared back. ‘It’s weird, isn’t it?’ he asked softly. ‘When someone thinks they know you.’”

Goodness. I binged this book in less than a day because I just could not put it down. Funny You Should Ask is perfect for fans of Taylor Jenkins Reid, full of angsty romance and well-crafted dialogue. I loved the way this story unraveled, as it was set up over two weekends with alternating then and now timelines. Chani was such a fun and relatable main character because while she’s a witty and confident, she’s also incredibly awkward. The tension that builds between her and Gabe in the book is tiiiggghhhhttttt. It’s clear they’re meant for each other, but watching it play out slowly was kind of tormenting but also wonderful. Be ready for an emotional rollercoaster where you’ll laugh at Chani trying to fall asleep in a dog bed during an actor’s house party, be fanning yourself during a certain club scene, and tearing up over proclamations of love.

Thank you to Dell and Randomhouse - Ballantine for the copy of this book.