4 Stars 

Gwen has been in low spirits, no thanks to her newly single status and trouble at work. She is determined to enjoy Christmas with her family, but things get messy. It sure is not easy when her father wants to live his dreams through her lawyering career, and her sister Creys (and her sister’s husband Oliver) seem to make things worse. It doesn’t help that Gwen meets her childhood crush, Dev Jones. 

Then Gwen wakes up the next day to repeat Christmas Day all over again. Someone made a wish, and it’s up to Gwen to find out and fulfill it. This turns out to be an eye-opener as Gwen realizes that there were many things she didn’t know about her family. Also, she wonders if she is living the best life when it no longer makes her happy. Can Gwen find what she wants for Christmas while helping her family truly come together as a unit? 

The story comes from the first-person POV of Gwen Baker. 

I’m glad I went into the prepared to read it more as Women’s Fiction than romance. Right expectations are important to enjoy the book. 

The writing is easy to read and flows with natural humor. It is silly, quirky, and even eye-roll-inducing. But it is entertaining and lighthearted. Even those several pop culture references didn’t diminish the effect. 

The characters are well-defined despite not being too layered. What we see is enough to understand their essence. Gwen has a few not-so-nice moments, but those make her human. After all, who hasn’t embarrassed themselves at one time or another? A bit of exaggeration is expected in fiction, so I don’t mind. 

The Groundhog Day loop doesn’t start until close to 100 pages. I feel this is necessary to establish the characters and set the stage for the actual time loop. The reader goes into the main plot armed with the required information. 

The book deals with varied themes like dysfunctional families, parental pressure, love, relationships, cheating, career struggles, workplace issues for women, etc. They blend with the plot, appear whenever necessary, and get resolved (sometimes easily, sometimes not). 

The pacing is a bummer. Despite the humor and everything, the story dragged in some places. A couple of themes are handled with a weeny bit extra emphasis, but that’s no big deal when the book delivers on the nice Christmasy feeling and a happy ever after. 

To summarize, The Christmas Wish is a lighthearted, humorous read with lots of family time and some romance (for icing). 

Thank you, NetGalley, HarperFiction, and HarperCollins UK, for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book. 

#NetGalley 

So, Dev Jones is half-Indian. His mom is Sunita, and they also have a teeny dog called Pari. Diverse- check. Brown character- check. 

Unfortunately, Devendra could have easily been David or Dave, and it could have been the same. While I’m glad that there is no stereotyping, I don’t like Dev’s cultural roots being erased without a trace. I couldn’t even imagine him because everything about him is 100% British. Now, if a book had Irish, Scottish, Italian, or other characters, there would be something other than ‘his thick black hair’ to show cultural diversity. 

Here, there’s nothing. Food, language, and music are connectors that keep the cultural element alive in second and third-generation immigrants. The book had ample opportunities to include a line or two to weave the Indianness without emphasizing or stereotyping the character. All it needed was a bit of research and some effort to make use of the diversity instead of ticking it off with physical descriptions and names. I haven’t docked points for this, but I would have added them if this was taken care of. 

 3.5 Stars

Christie is a psychiatric nurse at the institution where Lillian is recovering from a mental breakdown. They become friends (though it is against the rules). Christie helps Lillian recover and encourages her to get back to her life (and the stately home, Rutherford- Percy House). She feels a mysterious attraction toward the strange family and its past. However, Lillian is not adamant about not accepting her family home and legacy.  

Christie tries to uncover the past of Lillian’s family and discovers a shocking connection to her own family. It appears that her missing mother has ties to the Rutherford House. Will Christie finally find the answers to her questions, or will she end up with more questions? What will happen when the secrets are laid bare at last? 

The story comes in the first-person POVs of Christie and Milly and a third-person POV of Duncan. 

With multiple POVs and timelines, the beginning sure feels messy and confusing. The dates appear after a few chapters, and by then, the damage could be done if the reader feels annoyed. I could create a timeline and link the characters a bit easier because I note down the names and details when I read a book. 

The short chapters made it easy to sustain the pace. The book has almost 90 chapters, but that’s fine because most are short and keep the story moving. 

Once I understood the basic premise, I could figure out half the twists. Not that I mind, as it shows that the storyline and the reveals make sense to the reader. The final twist was a surprise, and that’s good too. 

I really wished Imogen had a few chapters in her POV. She was one of the main characters, and reading her twisted thoughts would have elevated the story a lot more. 

The chapters with Milly and Duncan are done well. Somehow, I didn’t feel for Christie’s character. Some of her actions made me doubt her professional capacity as a psychiatric nurse. The insta-love angle wasn’t appealing either. It felt a little too convenient. 

The characters were well-etched despite being more than a handful. However, I wasn’t particularly impressed by a couple of twists that had to be there to merge the tracks and arrive at the climax. 

While the book has many individual elements that sound good, the overall effect wasn’t great or wow. I liked it enough but wasn’t eager to know more or rush to the end. I didn’t have the feeling of satisfaction a good book (irrespective of the genre) would give. 

To summarize, The Shadows of Rutherford House is a contemporary gothic family drama plus thriller with interesting characters and a twisted plotline. 

Thank you, NetGalley and Hera Books, for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book. 

 3.7 Stars

Ellie Christie is back home in her tiny Colorado town to run the family bookshop with her older sister, Meg. Her sister’s teen Rosie and their fun-loving Gram help them in the business. The bookshop cat, Agatha C. Christie, does her bit to spread her hair around the books and bring more customers with her haughty frown. 

The bookshop, Book Chalet, is a favorite destination for booklovers in the town. However, the appearance of a mysterious stranger disrupts their book club meeting. When the man later ends up dead and has a history related to the town, the list of suspects starts to grow. 

The Christie family goes on an unsubtle amateur sleuthing as the snow piles high around the town. When a close family friend ends up as the prime suspect, Ellie and Meg have to sharpen their Marpling skills and find the killer. Can they do it in time and prevent more disasters in their cozy little town? 

The story comes in the first-person POV by Ellie Christie. 

The book is set in a snowy fictional town in Colorado. The small-town setting is spot on, with an array of characters and even a celebrity thrown into the mix. 

As the characters’ names suggest, there’s a lot of Christie in the book. As a fan, I did enjoy it, especially the regal cat. 

The story is quite lighthearted and humorous. If you want something silly and goofy with murder, this is your pick. 

The family dynamics are sweet, like really sweet. The teen is well-behaved and has enough skills to survive just about anywhere. Gram is tech-savvy enough to send voice messages (so what if the message ends up different from what she intended). 

My major grouse is with the pacing. It starts well, dips, slows, picks up a little, dips again, and ends with a moderate pace. Tighter editing would have solved the issue. I wouldn’t mind editing the repeated references to reading, either. I already know that they are bibliophiles. No point in reminding me multiple times throughout the book. 

Absent in the Spring by Christie (written as Mary Westmacott) has a key role in the story. I like how it’s incorporated into the plot. 

The murder and a few reveals were easy to guess (something I don’t mind in cozies). As the first book in the series, this one sets a decent base for the upcoming murders… books. I’d like more details about the main characters’ lives and a little less about how much they love to read. 

To summarize, Dead and Gondola is an entertaining read but a slightly bumpy ride. That said, I’m looking forward to the next in the series. 

Thank you, NetGalley, Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine, and Bantam, for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book. 

#NetGalley #DeadandGondola 

 4.25 Stars

Kasi Yatra (A journey to Varanasi) is what the title suggests. The book was written in 1934 and published sometime in 1948. The author, Chellapilla Venkata Sastry, passed away in 1950. Though the book is available in the public domain, it was republished in print (with pictures and a foreword by Sri Viswanadha Satyanarayana, the author’s student and a 20th-century Telugu writer) by Sri Modugula Ravikrishna of Guntur and Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam’s (TTD) Annamayya Granthalayam in 2012. 

The author was born in 1870 and went to Kasi for studies when he was 19-20 years old. He wrote about his experiences when he was 64 years old. In this book, he writes about his desire to go to Kasi, how he made it happen, his experience in Banaras, and his return journey. The writing is old Telugu (Grandhikam), which is intricate, complex, and heavy. I listened to the audiobook, so it was a bit easier to understand. 

The writing goes back and forth as it usually does in memoirs. It is to the point with doses of dry humor at the most unexpected places. Chellapilla Venkata Sastry was one of the Tirupati Venkata Kavulu (poets), and his command over the language is more than apparent in the book. 

It was even a little too much for me, given that my Telugu is contemporary and urban. Prose is his strength, and so are his short temper and straightforward attitude. Wordplay is an integral part of our language, and it was fun to listen to the alliterations, rhymes, and seamless interweaving of words (even when I had no idea what it meant). 

The foreword was a great addition as it gave me a clear picture of the great man. I’m tempted to find a few more works by him to try and improve the quality of my (butchered) Telugu. 

 3.7 Stars

In the middle of Ghost Woods in Scotland is Lichen Hall, a huge house with mysterious members, rooms, and incidents. It is a place where unwed girls go to give birth and hand over the child to adoptive parents. It is supposedly a better place than the ‘institutions’ that serve the same purpose. 

Mabel goes there in 1950 and Pearl in 1965, along with a good many other girls. Pearl notices strange happenings and events in and around the house. One day, she meets a mysterious young woman and a boy on the grounds. Together, they start to unravel the hidden secrets even as darkness threatens to swallow them whole. 

The story comes in the first-person POV of Mabel and Pearl in alternating timelines. 

My Thoughts: 

The story is divided into four parts: 

As you can see, the book is slow to start and even a little boring. But once the atmosphere sets in, it keeps you hooked. 

I read The Lighthouse Witches by the author and know that she writes settings very well. The book lives up to the previous one in this aspect. It is atmospheric, gothic, and dark. It’s not spine-chilling but has enough to sustain the mood. 

Folklore and science blend nicely, and there are enough social issues to add to the list. However, it doesn’t get preachy or OTT. 

Various human emotions and dark sides merge seamlessly as the story progresses. It also requires a little suspension of belief to take a few things in stride. 

The main characters are well-defined if not fully sketched. The side characters do what’s required of them. Though they aren’t explored, we get the essence of each character without trouble. 

Mabel and Pearl’s voices are distinct enough. They blur a little toward the climax, but it’s still easy to keep track. 

The author’s note at the end is detailed and provides insights into her idea and intent for the book. 

The climax and ending are predictable (there are many hints). The climax isn’t as impactful as I wanted, but the detailed epilogue is more than satisfying.  

To summarize, The Ghost Woods is a dark and atmospheric tale that uses folklore and science to explore the dark human side. Be careful of the triggers. 

Thank you, NetGalley and Emma Pickard from HarperCollins UK, HarperFiction, for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book. 

#NetGalley #TheGhostWoods 

An MLA decided to write his autobiography (aatma katha is an autobiography) as it was trending and because he knew no one else would write his life story after his death. Was he always ambitious and a force to reckon with, or was he nothing more than a puppet in a clever friend’s hands? 

The book is a satirical take on a politician’s life from being a pampered and meek guy to becoming an MLA and the decisions he had to make or follow. 

This is my second audiobook and first audio fiction. The story comes in the first-person POV of the main character Venkatappaya. Though he is the narrator, we soon realize that there’s another key character who influences this man right from childhood. 

Venkatappaya, Suseela Rao, Kondaiah, and Mahalingam are childhood buddies. Suseela Rao is the brain behind most events, while Kondaiah is known for his strength and Mahalingam for his cunning (the man who somehow escapes the worst but has access to the best). 

The book starts with a small intro by Venkatappaya and goes into the past. His birth, schooling, and subsequent events are narrated in an order. Though the title mentions his MLA status, e doesn’t become one until we enter the last third of the book. But the details of his growing years are necessary to understand his attitude. 

That the ‘autobiography’ has two dialogues by his wife and two passive mentions, compared to the constant mention of his friends’ names shows their roles in Venkatappaya’s life. Heck, even his parents don’t get the spotlight as Suseela Rao does. 

The story is set in Timmapuram. Incidentally, there are two such places in Andhra Pradesh. After noting the names of other places, I decided that this place is from the Guntur district. After all, the author is also from the same district. Elementary, Watson! 

The book is lighthearted, satirical, and easy to read. The topics are still relevant today- be it the behind-the-scene dealings, caste politics, deals between political parties, the ways to use and wield power, etc. Even the most hard-hitting issues are handled with a light touch. We can’t help but chuckle and shake our heads at the events. 

The ending is hopeful as it finally hints at our MLA growing up and learning to listen to his heart rather than his friends. I love how the last chapter completes the circle and establishes positivity. Though Venkatappaya’s mother has a limited role, we see her importance. She is an example of women from the previous generations- the ones who got things done despite the odds but didn’t call attention to themselves. She is the kind of strength one would know only when the time arose. 

The audiobook worked well, though I admit feeling nauseous after listening to it at a stretch for 2+ hours. Oh, well! 

To summarize, MLA Aatma Katha is a light take on politics and society in general. It’s a good read to understand that media management isn’t something new. ;) 

 4.3 Stars

Molly and Andrew have been flying home to Ireland for Christmas on the same flight for ten years. When the flight is canceled at the last minute, Molly is determined to ensure Andrew gets home to his family. She may not like Christmas the way he does, but she will do everything she can to help him. 

They race across the continents to get home on time. At the same time, they also seem to discover something more about their friendship. Maybe it’s time they examined their feelings for each other? Will this Christmas bring them happy-ever-after? 

The story comes in the first-person narrative by Molly. 

This is such a cute and sweet story! It’s what we call Hallmark sweet, which I love reading once in a while. Christmas and heartwarming romance go hand in hand. I’m glad that my first Christmas book of the year worked well (touchwood). 

Despite being a first-person narration, the story has a good pace. It flatters only in the last quarter but gains some pace to settle down at a medium speed. 

The banter between the characters was fun, lively, and enjoyable. I liked Molly’s interactions with Gabriela, Zoe, and Andrew. It’s easy to like Molly. Her character is balanced to be sweet and a little annoying. Bonus points because she likes food. 

Andrew is just as good, a bit more assertive and confident but vulnerable enough to feel relatable. Hannah had a small role but makes her presence strongly felt. I like that kid. 

I like that the characters don’t drag issues or have communication issues. Sure, they don’t just blurt things out but aren’t afraid to talk about important issues (with good people around them to provide the necessary nudging). 

There isn’t much to dislike in the book. It handles a few themes with a light touch and sustains the lightheartedness throughout. It was almost a 5-star read for me. But I felt that the slow pacing towards the end dimmed the impact a little. The epilogue is cool, though. 

To Summarize, Holiday Romance is a heartwarming Christmas story about friendships, family, love, and being courageous to do what makes us happy. 

Thank you, NetGalley and Bookouture, for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own. 

 4 Stars

October is the time for magic. Clemmie loves and dreads it. As a young witch, this October could be the time for the stars to descend on her for the first time. But magic comes with its share of responsibilities. Clemmie spent twelve years knowing how magic makes her eccentric aunts messy. 

However, things seem to be much more complex and dangerous this time. Clemmie’s aunts want their magic to last beyond October, and so do the Morgans, but for different reasons. What starts as a Merlyn obsession to live as a witch turns into a life-threatening situation. 

Meanwhile, Clemmie is still not sure how her magic works or if she can even use it. But it’s time for Clemmie to step up and accept her gift. Will she know what and how to do to save her family? Can Clemmie be the witch she was born to be? 

The story comes from Clemmie’s first-person POV. 

The story lands us directly in the middle of a magical mess at the beginning. It’s a bit slow to take off but goes full throttle from around 25-30%. 

The mess, however, continues throughout. It is cute, annoying, eye-roll-worthy (even for the young hags), and carefree. 

Clemmie is a twelve-year-old and sounds like one throughout the book. I like how she has magic but doesn’t know what to do with it. She isn’t a superhero and doesn’t pretend to be. 

The aunts are quirky, loud, and full of energy (a little too much, but that’s who they are). The contrast between the Merlyns and Morgans comes out very well. 

The kids (young hags) have strong personalities but are still kids with insecurities, doubts, and vulnerabilities. 

The climax is super cool. It’s high action with emotions and humor interwoven together. The combination works rather well and creates a visual treat for readers. 

While there’s enough history and lore, there’s no information about the whats and whys. Logical questions have no answer. You’ll enjoy this more if you go with the flow. Though I wouldn’t mind a few answers. 

Not sure if there will be a sequel because things tie up well enough, but there is potential for another book or two as the kids grow. I’d be interested to read those. 

To summarize, The October Witch is a delightful read and a perfect choice for October. It is emotional yet humorous, magical yet messy, and, of course, super cute. 

Thank you, NetGalley and UCLan Publishing, for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book. 

Elizabeth goes against her family’s wishes to marry Alexander Blackwell. She knew life with him would be different but hoped it would be exciting. While the excitement was certainly present, Elizabeth learns that dreams are different from reality, and what made Alexander unique may not be his best traits. 

Life in London was good and bad, and Elizabeth took things in stride without compromising her individuality. But when things take a turn for worse, and Alexander is in debtor’s prison, she has to be braver than ever to get him out of prison and deal with what life throws at her. Can Elizabeth handle the pressure and lead the life she dreamt of? 

The story comes from Elizabeth’s third-person POV, with a few scenes from other characters’ third-person POVs. 

What I Like: 

The first 40-50% has steady pacing and yet presents a clear picture of the characters and their lives. 

There isn’t much ‘show’, but ‘telling’ works for the storyline. There are enough descriptions to visualize the setting and the story. 

The details about Elizabeth’s artwork and the creation of Curious Herbal were great to read. I loved reading about the process of engraving and the skills required to create something so intricate. 

Using real-life stories to write fiction comes with responsibility. The writer has to balance the authenticity of real people while using creative liberties to dramatize their lives and events. However, staying true to their characters is crucial. While Alexander’s arc seems to align with the real person, I’m not impressed by certain changes to Elizabeth’s character. 

A few changes have been made, some of which are not a big deal. But a couple of changes did affect the plot. One of those doesn’t stay true to Elizabeth’s original character and grit. I read a few versions of her life’s story, and none mentions anything close to what has happened in the book. What’s more, I don’t even see the need for it. This isn’t something we should be doing to real people. She isn’t alive to present her side, right? 

Apart from the said creative liberties (I understand all about it. I’m a writer myself), the second half is slower and even drags in some places. While I appreciate the details about the conditions at the debtor’s prison, I would have liked it better with quicker pacing. 

The side characters are not fully explored. There are hints with bits and pieces of information but those seem to help the main characters more. Only Christian’s character has a good arc. Therese and George seem to drift in and out. Tobias… well, let’s not talk about it. 

To summarize, The Curious Life of Elizabeth Blackwell starts on a solid note but dips and dips further towards the end, especially after reading her true story. 

Thank you, Bloodhound Books, for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book. 

4 Stars

This is a cute little book with funny alliterations about blowing bubble gum, big, bigger, and biggest. There isn’t much story except for a few animals, one on each page, and the little kiddo blowing the bubble gum bigger. 

The illustrations are vibrant, diverse, and cute. Each page has a clue about what would come next, so you can get little ones to guess the animal and see if they are right. 

The book can also be used to teach new words with the letter B. The sentences become tongue twisters halfway through, and kids are sure to say them aloud and have loads of fun. 

To summarize, Blueberry-Blue Bubble is a lighthearted and humorous book to entertain kids and keep them engaged for a while. 

I received an ARC from NetGalley and BooksGoSocial and am voluntarily leaving a review. 
#BlueberryBlueBubble #NetGalley