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lit_vibrations's Reviews (365)
Another KR book for the win!!! While I don’t think any book by the author will top “Before I Let Go” for me this was another great book to add to the list. It was heartfelt, passionate, and full of steam. The pacing was fair with compelling characters, an interesting plot, and a thought-provoking cliffhanger type ending.
Kennedy continues to prove why she’s a must read author. Her writing is sharp and compelling, there’s always diversity within her characters, and a unique style in the way she tells a story.
I enjoyed both MC’s throughout the book for the most part I mean the intensity of their connection was hard to deny. I’m not one to believe in love at first sight but Ryan does a great job reeling you into their growing relationship. Now Maxim did annoy me a bit with his egotistical ways and putting his career before everything yet still longing for Lennix.
They met when she was 17 and he was about 21 or 22 nothing happens between them until about four year later. Lennix losing her virginity to him was odd considering she didn’t really know him in my opinion. I found it hard to believe she saved it all that time just to give it up so quickly like he didn’t even have to work for it.
There were also a few cheesy, stereotypical, cliche moments thrown in but nothing was overdone so the story is still wholesome. What I did notice was that most of the conflict within the book arises mainly because of Maxim and the fact he lied about who he was.
Overall, the book was great not a fav but still worth reading. I think she wove the political aspects in perfectly with the romance and steam so the premise was well-executed. I don’t care for cliffhanger endings but the way she ended things will make you want to hurry up and read the next book in the series. Special thanks to the author, @read_bloom , & @netgalley for my advanced copy!!!
Kennedy continues to prove why she’s a must read author. Her writing is sharp and compelling, there’s always diversity within her characters, and a unique style in the way she tells a story.
I enjoyed both MC’s throughout the book for the most part I mean the intensity of their connection was hard to deny. I’m not one to believe in love at first sight but Ryan does a great job reeling you into their growing relationship. Now Maxim did annoy me a bit with his egotistical ways and putting his career before everything yet still longing for Lennix.
They met when she was 17 and he was about 21 or 22 nothing happens between them until about four year later. Lennix losing her virginity to him was odd considering she didn’t really know him in my opinion. I found it hard to believe she saved it all that time just to give it up so quickly like he didn’t even have to work for it.
There were also a few cheesy, stereotypical, cliche moments thrown in but nothing was overdone so the story is still wholesome. What I did notice was that most of the conflict within the book arises mainly because of Maxim and the fact he lied about who he was.
Overall, the book was great not a fav but still worth reading. I think she wove the political aspects in perfectly with the romance and steam so the premise was well-executed. I don’t care for cliffhanger endings but the way she ended things will make you want to hurry up and read the next book in the series. Special thanks to the author, @read_bloom , & @netgalley for my advanced copy!!!
Everybody’s a suspect in this suspense-filled murder mystery. I enjoyed reading this book for the most part but I had higher expectations for it. The beginning starts out as a slow-burn but as it progresses eventually the pace picks up. None of the characters were deeply developed which isn’t a bad thing because their personalities and certain characteristics stuck out enough to make them all memorable.
I will say Hall definitely has a unique writing style and I always enjoy her choice of characters because they add to the atmosphere she’s trying to create within the book. It was easy to visualize the scenery of the island and put faces with each character without having a vivid description. Then once you get past the first half of the book you’ll notice some character twists thrown in that makes everyone seem like a suspect. I just knew her aunt Gwen was behind something because she came off fake and shady.
What lowered my rating was the fact the book dragged a lot. Had the author not rambled on with Colette’s inner dialogue so much we could’ve gotten to the point sooner. But either way the book was great and did what it was supposed to do it just missed the mark slightly for me. There was also to much buildup in the beginning so once things unraveled the book was nearly ending.
Overall, the plot was chilling, it had me on edge a bit, and I loved the unexpected twists and turns. I was really drawn into this chaotic world on Catalina Island. Some things were predictable and others not so much but I think the author did just enough leaving a little to the imagination. So, if you’re looking for a good thriller with a little slow-burn you’ll want to add this one to your list. Special thanks to the author & #thomasandmercer for my gifted copy!!!
Rating: 3.75⭐️
I will say Hall definitely has a unique writing style and I always enjoy her choice of characters because they add to the atmosphere she’s trying to create within the book. It was easy to visualize the scenery of the island and put faces with each character without having a vivid description. Then once you get past the first half of the book you’ll notice some character twists thrown in that makes everyone seem like a suspect. I just knew her aunt Gwen was behind something because she came off fake and shady.
What lowered my rating was the fact the book dragged a lot. Had the author not rambled on with Colette’s inner dialogue so much we could’ve gotten to the point sooner. But either way the book was great and did what it was supposed to do it just missed the mark slightly for me. There was also to much buildup in the beginning so once things unraveled the book was nearly ending.
Overall, the plot was chilling, it had me on edge a bit, and I loved the unexpected twists and turns. I was really drawn into this chaotic world on Catalina Island. Some things were predictable and others not so much but I think the author did just enough leaving a little to the imagination. So, if you’re looking for a good thriller with a little slow-burn you’ll want to add this one to your list. Special thanks to the author & #thomasandmercer for my gifted copy!!!
Rating: 3.75⭐️
This novel has an eerie, dark, gothic type atmosphere going but nothing about it was to scary or chilling. Honestly the book was really meh the entire time.
In the beginning it held my attention but started getting repetitive and lost me a bit. The pacing was up and down and a lot of questions I had didn’t really get answered until the end. Which kind of left me disappointed because I didn’t get the clarity I was looking for.
The MC Holly made the worse choices and really irked my nerves a lot. For instance she moved in with Maura who was her brother’s girlfriend/fiancé which was cool. However, she ended up having this weird attraction to Maura and they kiss/sleep together. I didn’t like how the plot changed up here because the whole reason she moved in was to investigate her brothers death. Yet we get a lot of chapters with her pining over Maura thinking nothing of Dane.
Holly knew Maura was a psychopath but when given the opportunity to run and save her own life she stays to play a game and have drinks. If I had assumptions somebody killed my brother and might try to kill me I’m not about to be buddy buddy with them. So, of course Maura puts something in the drink. I was yelling at the pages like come on sis you not really about to stay are you? Holly literally fell for everything so it’s hard to believe she escaped.
Overall, the book was okay a little predictable but engaging enough to read. Definitely something that can be read during spooky szn. If you’re into dark psychological thrillers this might be for you but proceed with caution and lower expectations. Special thanks to the author, @randomhouse #bantam , & @netgalley for my advanced copy!!!
Rating: 3.5⭐️
In the beginning it held my attention but started getting repetitive and lost me a bit. The pacing was up and down and a lot of questions I had didn’t really get answered until the end. Which kind of left me disappointed because I didn’t get the clarity I was looking for.
The MC Holly made the worse choices and really irked my nerves a lot. For instance she moved in with Maura who was her brother’s girlfriend/fiancé which was cool. However, she ended up having this weird attraction to Maura and they kiss/sleep together. I didn’t like how the plot changed up here because the whole reason she moved in was to investigate her brothers death. Yet we get a lot of chapters with her pining over Maura thinking nothing of Dane.
Holly knew Maura was a psychopath but when given the opportunity to run and save her own life she stays to play a game and have drinks. If I had assumptions somebody killed my brother and might try to kill me I’m not about to be buddy buddy with them. So, of course Maura puts something in the drink. I was yelling at the pages like come on sis you not really about to stay are you? Holly literally fell for everything so it’s hard to believe she escaped.
Overall, the book was okay a little predictable but engaging enough to read. Definitely something that can be read during spooky szn. If you’re into dark psychological thrillers this might be for you but proceed with caution and lower expectations. Special thanks to the author, @randomhouse #bantam , & @netgalley for my advanced copy!!!
Rating: 3.5⭐️
Sometimes good things fall apart for better things to come together!!! This was such a heartwarming story about finding yourself, love, family, history, and new beginnings.
From the start of the book we’re drawn in by the FMC Casey Black being placed into an intense situation. Her picture-perfect vow renewal results in her being left at the altar ending seven-years of marriage. With her life now in shambles Casey leaves New York in hopes of finding long-lost family in Georgetown, South Carolina. Running away from the chaos will allow Casey to do some soul searching and seek answers about her past. Along her journey she not only finds the family she’s been missing but a new love interest that reminds her what it truly feels like to be desired and wanted.
I loved the dual timelines and learning about the history of the Black family. It was so tender and heartfelt to see Casey experience what it’s like to have a grandmother with so much wisdom. All of the characters we so rich and complex with their own personalities. I was definitely rooting for Casey and Nigel I loved the way the author brought them together.
Overall, the book was amazing definitely worth reading. The pacing and plot were steady throughout. We see Casey go from a place of uncertainty to find happiness, purpose, peace, and a sense of belonging. The author wrapped the novel up beautifully leaving her with a happily ever after. Special thanks to the author, @thomasnelson, & @hearourvoicestours for my gifted copy and to be apart of this tour!!!
From the start of the book we’re drawn in by the FMC Casey Black being placed into an intense situation. Her picture-perfect vow renewal results in her being left at the altar ending seven-years of marriage. With her life now in shambles Casey leaves New York in hopes of finding long-lost family in Georgetown, South Carolina. Running away from the chaos will allow Casey to do some soul searching and seek answers about her past. Along her journey she not only finds the family she’s been missing but a new love interest that reminds her what it truly feels like to be desired and wanted.
I loved the dual timelines and learning about the history of the Black family. It was so tender and heartfelt to see Casey experience what it’s like to have a grandmother with so much wisdom. All of the characters we so rich and complex with their own personalities. I was definitely rooting for Casey and Nigel I loved the way the author brought them together.
Overall, the book was amazing definitely worth reading. The pacing and plot were steady throughout. We see Casey go from a place of uncertainty to find happiness, purpose, peace, and a sense of belonging. The author wrapped the novel up beautifully leaving her with a happily ever after. Special thanks to the author, @thomasnelson, & @hearourvoicestours for my gifted copy and to be apart of this tour!!!
Inspired by the journey and true story of Mother Rachael and some research of her own family, Eleanor Shearer created such a compelling Caribbean novel weaving motherhood, historical events, family, courage, and a little imagination into an enthralling story.
Through the eyes of the FMC Rachel and a few side characters she crosses paths with along the way, the reader is taken on this emotional journey of hope as she attempts to locate five of her stolen children. Unlike most historical novels that feature slavery as its premise we’re given a different take on things and get a glimpse of life after slavery.
That’s what I found most fascinating about the novel was the authors bold approach and perception of how things should’ve gone for our main character. It’s unlikely for someone back during that time to be as successful with locating their missing family as Rachel was.
But I liked how the author still chose to give hope to readers without really undermining the traditional notions of how things were back then. We just see less of a struggle for the main character which made certain aspects of the novel seem unauthentic. But nonetheless it was still incredibly thought provoking and enjoyable to read.
Overall, this was an amazing story of resilience, strength, and a mother’s love for her children and the lengths one may go to fix the wrongdoings of others. The book was well-written with an emotional prose kind of a slow-burn in the beginning but still worth the read so I recommend!!!
Rating: 4.5⭐️
Through the eyes of the FMC Rachel and a few side characters she crosses paths with along the way, the reader is taken on this emotional journey of hope as she attempts to locate five of her stolen children. Unlike most historical novels that feature slavery as its premise we’re given a different take on things and get a glimpse of life after slavery.
That’s what I found most fascinating about the novel was the authors bold approach and perception of how things should’ve gone for our main character. It’s unlikely for someone back during that time to be as successful with locating their missing family as Rachel was.
But I liked how the author still chose to give hope to readers without really undermining the traditional notions of how things were back then. We just see less of a struggle for the main character which made certain aspects of the novel seem unauthentic. But nonetheless it was still incredibly thought provoking and enjoyable to read.
Overall, this was an amazing story of resilience, strength, and a mother’s love for her children and the lengths one may go to fix the wrongdoings of others. The book was well-written with an emotional prose kind of a slow-burn in the beginning but still worth the read so I recommend!!!
Rating: 4.5⭐️
“I’ve done what I know is best for my children. To be colored in America is a burden that I don’t want them to have to shoulder.”
Another great historical fiction novel inspired by the real life of Belle da Costa Greene, a well known art and book figure in New York who was also the personal librarian of J.P. Morgan. This was the first I’ve ever heard of Belle da Costa Greene and while some of the events in the book are fictionalized I still found her to be an extraordinary character and very outspoken. Back during a time when color passing was prevalent Belle went through great lengths to conceal her identity in order to succeed and provide for her family.
The pacing starts off a bit slow in the beginning and nothing major jumps off the page so this took me longer to get through than I expected. But halfway in things get better and the novel picks up because our FMC gets a little bolder and decides to sleep with a married man. At that point I was hooked lol the decisions Belle made really frustrated me. I just knew somehow her true identity was going to be revealed after everything that happened.
Overall, it was pretty decent and well-written. A little long winded and not as exciting as other historical fiction books I’ve come across but it was still a great read so I recommend!!!!
Rating: 3.75⭐️
Another great historical fiction novel inspired by the real life of Belle da Costa Greene, a well known art and book figure in New York who was also the personal librarian of J.P. Morgan. This was the first I’ve ever heard of Belle da Costa Greene and while some of the events in the book are fictionalized I still found her to be an extraordinary character and very outspoken. Back during a time when color passing was prevalent Belle went through great lengths to conceal her identity in order to succeed and provide for her family.
The pacing starts off a bit slow in the beginning and nothing major jumps off the page so this took me longer to get through than I expected. But halfway in things get better and the novel picks up because our FMC gets a little bolder and decides to sleep with a married man. At that point I was hooked lol the decisions Belle made really frustrated me. I just knew somehow her true identity was going to be revealed after everything that happened.
Overall, it was pretty decent and well-written. A little long winded and not as exciting as other historical fiction books I’ve come across but it was still a great read so I recommend!!!!
Rating: 3.75⭐️
Take away a man’s financial security to care for his family and watch the lengths he’ll go to provide and make something happen. That’s what we get with “Blacktop Wasteland” Beauregard “Bug” Montage now a mechanic with a declining business was trying to live his life right and put his past criminal acts behind him. But when placed in a tough spot and the financial demand of his family’s needs increasing by the day he needed to make some major money and quick. When he’s presented with a proposition to hit big Beauregard must decide if the reward will truly be greater than the risk.
There are only so many ways you can’t write a crime fiction novel. With most of the plots being similar you’re probably thinking if you’ve read one then you’ve read them all. But I’m here to say you’re wrong!!! S.A. Cosby takes crime fiction to a completely different level from the authenticity in his writing to the vivid and realistic depictions of his characters and the settings where things take place.
This was a really great read will definitely have you on edge from start to finish. I’ve never been into crime fiction but at this point if Cosby wrote it I’ll be reading it. The way his writing just jumps off the page and pulls you in is nothing short of amazing. If I hadn’t been reading other books in between I probably would’ve finished within a day or two. I love the raw, grittiness you get when reading his books. They all give off this violent, action-packed, movie type feel I wouldn’t be surprised if we see one of his books adapted soon cause his work is GIVING!!!!
Overall, I loved this book not as much as My Darkest Prayer but it was still amazing. If you’re looking for a fast-paced, action-packed, adrenaline rush then I highly recommend you read this book. I’m certain you will not be disappointed. If you’re not a fan of crime fiction let S.A. Cosby change your mind.
There are only so many ways you can’t write a crime fiction novel. With most of the plots being similar you’re probably thinking if you’ve read one then you’ve read them all. But I’m here to say you’re wrong!!! S.A. Cosby takes crime fiction to a completely different level from the authenticity in his writing to the vivid and realistic depictions of his characters and the settings where things take place.
This was a really great read will definitely have you on edge from start to finish. I’ve never been into crime fiction but at this point if Cosby wrote it I’ll be reading it. The way his writing just jumps off the page and pulls you in is nothing short of amazing. If I hadn’t been reading other books in between I probably would’ve finished within a day or two. I love the raw, grittiness you get when reading his books. They all give off this violent, action-packed, movie type feel I wouldn’t be surprised if we see one of his books adapted soon cause his work is GIVING!!!!
Overall, I loved this book not as much as My Darkest Prayer but it was still amazing. If you’re looking for a fast-paced, action-packed, adrenaline rush then I highly recommend you read this book. I’m certain you will not be disappointed. If you’re not a fan of crime fiction let S.A. Cosby change your mind.
I really wanted to like this book but nothing major really happened and it dragged for so long that I wasn’t really invested. The premise seemed promising which made me push through but I think the dual POVs from Alexis and Blair took away from the novel. The murder wasn’t really the center of the story so many times I questioned what certain things had to do with the plot itself because there was a lot of rambling going on.
Then once the murder happened we don’t really get anymore excitement until nearly the end of the book. I didn’t really care for any of the characters which made this fall flat for me. There were a few twists and turns but nothing substantial enough to make up for the slow pacing. The ending was a little predictable which I figured out a little earlier on who the murderer might be but the second person involved was a little surprising.
Overall, it was meh the characters lacked depth and didn’t really add to the atmosphere of the book. I wanted more from this and I really didn’t believe the motive behind the murder was worth it. Can’t say I recommend because the book was really iffy for me. Special thanks to the author, minotaurbooks, & netgalley for my advanced copy!!!
Then once the murder happened we don’t really get anymore excitement until nearly the end of the book. I didn’t really care for any of the characters which made this fall flat for me. There were a few twists and turns but nothing substantial enough to make up for the slow pacing. The ending was a little predictable which I figured out a little earlier on who the murderer might be but the second person involved was a little surprising.
Overall, it was meh the characters lacked depth and didn’t really add to the atmosphere of the book. I wanted more from this and I really didn’t believe the motive behind the murder was worth it. Can’t say I recommend because the book was really iffy for me. Special thanks to the author, minotaurbooks, & netgalley for my advanced copy!!!
This book was so amazing I mean literally!!! I went into it blind bought it because I liked the cover never read the synopsis just to add a little razzle dazzle. When I say this book razzled and dazzled me I was emotionally on edge the entire time. Kudos to the author for creating such a compelling book.
This is a character-driven novel inspired by a real life case from 1973 in Montgomery, Alabama. It follows nurse turned doctor Civil Townsend as she struggles to rewrite the wrongdoings brought upon two young African American sisters Erica and India by the injustices of society and the healthcare system.
The writing is so immersive I really enjoyed the dual timelines and I think it was thoroughly fleshed out. Nothing beats the past everything was so detailed and vivid. Civil was a very strong character, a little nosey but she showed so much empathy and affection when it came to the girls. She went over and beyond her line of duty. Many times our FMC might’ve cared too much and began to sacrifice her own sanity in the process. But it’s because of people like Civil that these girls were able to get justice. The historical aspects of the book were so complex and heartbreaking because this wasn’t something that happened far back in time.
Overall, I found this to be extremely informative and thought-provoking from start to finish. The pacing throughout was well maintained and she created the most memorable characters. Mrs. Seagers deserved a couple slaps!!! If you have the book I highly advise you give it a read.
This is a character-driven novel inspired by a real life case from 1973 in Montgomery, Alabama. It follows nurse turned doctor Civil Townsend as she struggles to rewrite the wrongdoings brought upon two young African American sisters Erica and India by the injustices of society and the healthcare system.
The writing is so immersive I really enjoyed the dual timelines and I think it was thoroughly fleshed out. Nothing beats the past everything was so detailed and vivid. Civil was a very strong character, a little nosey but she showed so much empathy and affection when it came to the girls. She went over and beyond her line of duty. Many times our FMC might’ve cared too much and began to sacrifice her own sanity in the process. But it’s because of people like Civil that these girls were able to get justice. The historical aspects of the book were so complex and heartbreaking because this wasn’t something that happened far back in time.
Overall, I found this to be extremely informative and thought-provoking from start to finish. The pacing throughout was well maintained and she created the most memorable characters. Mrs. Seagers deserved a couple slaps!!! If you have the book I highly advise you give it a read.
This was such a captivating coming-of-age YA novel that really took me by surprise!!! It was beautifully written and so engrossing it had me hooked from the beginning. I will say it starts out as a slow burn but it was worth every minute. The plot provides a fascinating exploration of family dynamics, self-discovery, freedom, and alternatives for following your own path regardless of your upbringing.
It follows Nigeria Jones raised as part of the Movement, a Black separatist group based in Philadelphia. She was homeschooled, vegan, and participated in traditional rituals to connect her and other kids from the group to their ancestors. But when her mother disappears, Nigeria’s world is upended and she begins to question everything.
The character development was great and very diverse. I loved how all of the characters aided in Nigeria’s life and came to her rescue whether the situation was good or bad. At the end of the day everyone wanted what was best for her. The relationship she had with her father became very dysfunctional after her mother’s disappearance and I found myself siding with Nigeria during their disputes. I felt her dad was overly controlling and to stuck in his ways to really want more for her.
The best part of this story was the mystery that surrounded her mother and actually learning what occurred. I had my assumptions but I was totally wrong so that was a great twist in the novel. I also enjoyed that there were realistic developments throughout that helped Nigeria shape her own path and really come to terms with everything that was happening around her. The last few chapters definitely explain why she behaved a certain way and was suddenly second guessing her father’s way of life.
Overall, the book was amazing and so worth the read. I definitely recommend!!! Special thanks to the author & @balzerandbray for my gifted copy.
It follows Nigeria Jones raised as part of the Movement, a Black separatist group based in Philadelphia. She was homeschooled, vegan, and participated in traditional rituals to connect her and other kids from the group to their ancestors. But when her mother disappears, Nigeria’s world is upended and she begins to question everything.
The character development was great and very diverse. I loved how all of the characters aided in Nigeria’s life and came to her rescue whether the situation was good or bad. At the end of the day everyone wanted what was best for her. The relationship she had with her father became very dysfunctional after her mother’s disappearance and I found myself siding with Nigeria during their disputes. I felt her dad was overly controlling and to stuck in his ways to really want more for her.
The best part of this story was the mystery that surrounded her mother and actually learning what occurred. I had my assumptions but I was totally wrong so that was a great twist in the novel. I also enjoyed that there were realistic developments throughout that helped Nigeria shape her own path and really come to terms with everything that was happening around her. The last few chapters definitely explain why she behaved a certain way and was suddenly second guessing her father’s way of life.
Overall, the book was amazing and so worth the read. I definitely recommend!!! Special thanks to the author & @balzerandbray for my gifted copy.