Saturday, December 31, 2022
#MMBBR #Review #FirstLine #TheVilla by @LadyHawkins via @netgalley @StMartinsPress
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
#FirstLine - Houses remember.
This book was something! I loved the alternating timelines because it seamlessly and beautifully tied past and present together. I was so engrossed in the stories of all the characters. They all were flawed and interesting in their own right. All were worthy of their story being told. It is amazing how the actions of others can change the trajectory of another life. It was a wild ride of intrigue and suspense. I loved that I never really knew the full truth of what really happened at the Villa past or present until the very end of the story. I also loved that it was not tied up all perfect at the end. It was unsettling and illustrates how every action has a consequence!!! A must read for everyone in 2023!!!
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Sunday, November 20, 2022
#TheChristmasWish by @lindseykelk via @harpercollins #FirstLine #MMBBR
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
#TheChristmasWish by @lindseykelk via @harpercollins - #FirstLine: Bundled up against the cold, I stood outside my flat, waiting, until an ancient Volvo rolled around the corner, Mariah Carey’s whistle tones filling the formally quiet street. #Review - I have fallen in love with everything Kelk has written! This holiday story was as fun as it was memorable. There are gems of wisdom sprinkled within this magical tale. The characters are those you will adore the the dialogue is smart and witty. You will enjoy how this story unfolds and will be satisfied with the heartwarming conclusion. A holiday MUST READ!!! #MMBBR
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Sunday, November 13, 2022
#MMBBR #HolidayGiftGuide #coloringbooks #journals #activitybook #photography @UlyssesPress @rocky_nook
Saturday, November 12, 2022
#MMBBR #Showcase #DearWildChild @wallacejnichols @abramskids @mediamastersbks
The art echoes the text’s emphasis on beauty rather than loss. . .In the event’s aftermath, the affecting story’s tone remains openhearted, concluding with sentiments that encourage resilience and reflect on the nature of home." ―Publishers Weekly
"It’s a touching sentiment that reminds readers of all ages that our lives are defined not by our material possessions but by the memories we make. . .Intricate and emotional."
―Kirkus Reviews
In the shade of ancient redwood trees, by a creek, not far from the ocean, a father builds a house for his newborn daughter, where she grows up wild and strong in their coastal canyon home. When a wildfire takes back their beloved house, a father writes his now-grown daughter a letter telling her it’s gone. Inspired by the real letter the author wrote his daughter, this poignant story—written together by father and daughter—joyfully declares that a home is more than just wood and stone; it is made of love and can never be taken away. You carry home with you wherever you go.
About the Authors & Illustrator
Wallace Grayce Nichols is a student of sustainable design, problem solver, and water lover.
Dr. Wallace J. Nichols, is a marine biologist and the author of the bestselling book Blue Mind: The Surprising Science That Shows How Being Near, In, On, or Under Water Can Make You Happier, Healthier, More Connected, and Better at What You Do. Home is the slow coast of California.
Drew Beckmeyer is a fine artist, illustrator, and elementary school teacher. He lives in Northern California. #bluemind #slowcoast #wildchild
#MMBBR #ALightThroughAWindow #HaleyDewey
"A Light Through A Window," pulls the blinds back from the most disfigured and debaucherous versions of ourselves, inviting the reader to abandon the dark and find healing in the beauty of Light.
In reflection of the release, Dewey said, “I am incredibly excited to share my heart with you. I emptied myself on these pages, hoping it would bring you comfort. You are not alone. And, I hope that any lamplight poets out there will step forward and share their faith.”
Dewey is an American poet, doodler and speaker who is widely known on Instagram and various communities through her handle @haleydeweypoet. Online she reaches thousands of people every month through her written works, focusing on the disorder and pain of the 21st century as well as living during an age of political and sexual upheaval.
#MMBBR Extraordinary Women with Cameras: 35 Photographers Who Changed How We See the World @pacificandcourt
Explore 35 of the most groundbreaking, creative female photographers in history and modern times! Ever since photography was invented almost 200 years ago, women have broken barriers and influenced the artform. Now, this first-ever children's book about women photographers tells the stories of 35 of the most talented historical and contemporary shutterbugs.
Filled with colorful illustrations, this book includes stories about Dorthea Lange's haunting portraits of American history, Margaret Bourke-White's bravery as the first female war correspondent in WWII, Florestine Perrault Collins' influential images depicting Black life in the 1920s, and many more. Including explanations of key photography terms, photo project ideas, and suggestions for other women photographers to study, this charming book will inspire children to pick up a camera and make their own incredible photographs.#MMBBR #AdultColoringBooks @penguinrandomhouse
Friday, October 21, 2022
#MMBBR #Review #FirstLine #TheFamilyGame by @CatSteadman via @netgalley #NetGalley @penguinrandom #BallantineBooks #Thriller
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
What a read!!! A rollercoaster of thrills and chills. I could not out this book down. I am still reeling and processing it! I loved that I never knew what was going to happen, which kept me on my toes. I marveled at how perfectly the story unfolded. This book is not to be missed!
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#MMBBR #FirstLine #Review #TheChristmasSpirit by @debbiemacomber @netgalley @penguinrandom #BallantineBooks #DebbieInsider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
#FirstLine - "Nana, Nana, "we're here, " eight-year-old Lance shouted, as he raced into the house ahead of his six-year-old sister.
I loved this books so much. Dare I say that Macomber is the queen of Christmas?!?!?! I think she really gets to the heart of the holiday season through her beautiful stories. It does not feel like Christmas until I read one of her amazingly sweet and heartwarming stories of the season. This year I needed a dose of Christmas in October!!! Who can blames me??? Christmas is the best and Macomber's books are sheer joy!!! The Christmas Spirit is a book about remembering what it is like to fall in love and what the Christmas holiday is all about. This story captures what it means to have faith and to truly believe in something greater than ourselves. A must read holiday story!!!
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#MMBBR #Review #MadHoney by @jodipicoult via @netgalley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This book was something special. Picoult always knows how to create a story that resonates wit readers. She knows how to develop characters, flesh out a story and pace it in way that make the book hard to out down. Mad Honey was all those things and so much more. You cannot help but be drawn into the story and care deeply about what is happening. It was such a delight and a book I recommend!
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Saturday, October 1, 2022
#MMBBR #Review #LAWeather by #MaríaAmparoEscandón @Flatironbooks #ReesesBookClub @ReeseW
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
#FirstLine ~ The twins were here one minute, gone the next.
This book has it all. I cannot even begin to capture all the things that take place in this book and as the story unfolds over one years time. You are taken into the life of the Alvarado family and experience a lot of ups and downs with them. It is complicated and heartbreaking, hopeful and happy and everything in between. A must read!!!
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Monday, September 5, 2022
#MMBBR #FirstLine #Review #ALimitedRun by @KarenMcQuestion via #NightskyPress
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
#FirstLine - Meri walked into the convention hall, took off her sunglasses, and blinked at the great expanse of glass and light.
From page one I was hooked. McQuestion is so skilled at fleshing out characters, which creates a bond with the readers. In A LIMITED RUN, you are brought into the lives of actors asked to revisit their old TV show they all starred in two decades after the series conclusion…intriguing right!?!? That is not where the intrigue ends! This book is brilliant. You will be pulled into the story, both wanting to see how it ends while equally wanting to savor every page! I could see this book being made into a mini series! It was beautifully written, perfectly paced and the dialogue was spot on! A must read!!!
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Saturday, August 27, 2022
#MMBBR #Review @harpercollins360 #YouAreNotABeforePicture by @alexlight_ldn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Simply stated...you must read this. It will change your relationship with your body for the better!
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#MMBBR #Review #FirstLine #WithLoveFromWishCo by #MinnieDarke via @netgalley and #DellPublishing #WithLovefromWishCo #NetGalley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
#FirstLine ~ Alone in the quiet of Wish & Co after closing time, Marnie Fairchild decided to give it a try.
I love books that surprise you! This is one of those gems. I was immediately drawn to this beautiful cover, then the title and the story was the literal bow around this awesome story. So many great characters, a fabulous setting and a storyline that was moving and fun. This is a stellar book perfect for book clubs and buddy reads!!!!
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Thursday, August 18, 2022
#MMBBR #Review #FirstLine #TheAwoken by #KatelynMonroeHowes via @netgalley and @DuttonBooks
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
#FirstLine - PROLOGUE : I was twenty-three years old when I died.
Original and interesting The Awoken is a debut that has so much readers will love...an original plot, dynamic characters and setting, thrills, love, some twists, some turns and a satisfying ending. A story that lovers of Dystopian Fiction and Science Fiction will love!!!!
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Tuesday, August 9, 2022
#MMBBR #Review #FirstLine #TheMakingofHer by @bernadettejiwa #BernadetteJiwa via @netgalley #NetGalley @DuttonBooks #DuttonBooks
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
#FirstLine ~ Prologue - People were forever telling her how lucky she was.
This book is set in Ireland. I love that magical and beautiful country. I loved traveling there, so THE MAKING OF HER being set there was win number one. It was an equally beautiful story with very compelling characters. This story is both heartbreaking and hopeful, with a triumphant ending that was not perfect (in the best way) and so very satisfying.
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#MMBBR #Review #FirstLine #TheRuleOfThree by #EGScott @GScottwrites via #Netgalley @netgalley and #DuttonBooks @DuttonBooks
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
#FirstLine - Nine-one-one.
This book was so good. I loved that the story such a great premise. It was original and fun. It was filled with twists and turns. It had so many secrets that were revealed. The reader will be pulled into this exclusive neighborhood realizing things are not as they seem. A must read!
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Monday, August 8, 2022
#MMBBR #Review #FirstLine #TheFamilyRemains via @netgalley #NetGalley @lisajewelluk @randomhouse #contemporaryfiction #familydrama #murdermystery #suspense
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This book was a satisfying follow up book to the Family Upstairs. I loved that this book was a deeper dive into the previous story. You got a different spin and a deeper understanding. It has some twists and few turns. I was fully engrossed and felt like the story was concluded well, giving justice to the characters and their stories.
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#MMBBR #Review #Audiobook #Ebook #StayAwake by @megangoldin via @StMartinsPress and @netgalley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Holy man! This book was something else. I never knew which way it was going to twist or turn. I loved it so much. I loved that story flipped back and forth in time...leaving tidbits of information with each chapter. The story came together perfectly. I could not help but but myself in the main character shoes and wonder what all of that would be like. What a scary and wild ride. There was a very satisfying ending too. A must read for thriller lovers.
PS I was able to both listen to and read this book before publication. I loved both formats and feel that audiobook lovers are really going to love how it was performed. Either way to read this book you will love it!!!
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Sunday, August 7, 2022
#MMBBR #Review #FirstLine #EdgeOfSummer by @viola_shipman - This book is a 5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️📖 - @graydonhousebooks @htpbooks @authorwaderouse
#FirstLine - Prologue My mom told everyone my dad died, along with my entire family-grandparents, aunts, uncles, and all-one Christmas Day long ago.
Wednesday, August 3, 2022
#MMBBR #Review @NationalGeographic #UltimateFoodAtlas via #partner @mediamastersbks and @NGKids who provided a #free #reviewcopy
About The Ultimate Food Atlas:
This book is quite speculator! Within this amazing book there are maps, games and recipes, plus amazing photos. In addition to all that, there are facts and tidbits galore. While you peruse the book you can look through the chapters and read things that interest you the most. The chapters allow you to travel the world. When this book arrived my son was instantly reading it bouncing from topic to topic...all I heard was "Did you know that...." followed by some amazing factoids and "Wow, look at this..." followed by me looking at some crazy cool things. These are the type of books that capture the attention of young readers because they have amazing vibrant photos with fun facts, game, puzzles and digital extras. I love that I can trust that my child will be learning interesting and important facts and that their attention will be captured and off their phones for a while. Every time you open it up you read you learn something new. 5 star |
Wednesday, July 27, 2022
#MMBBR #FirstLine #Review #RealBadThings by @kellyjfordauthor and @amazonpublishing
Sunday, July 24, 2022
#MMBBR #Review #Audiobook #TheThingsWeDoInTheDark by @JenniferHillier @netgalley and @MacmillanAudio
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I have to tell you that this audiobook gripped me instantly. I was immediately drawn into the amazing narration and the story. There is something unsettling the whole way through. You know you are going to be surprised by what happens, but the story is told in an unrushed and deliberate way. You are invested in the characters and what they have gone through. You understand right away why they must get to the truth. All the characters are fleshed out beautifully. A compelling and engaging listen!!! A brilliant story and amazing narration of the book!
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#MMBBR #Review #FirstLine #TheRussian by @JP_Books and @GrandCentralPub
Saturday, July 23, 2022
#MMBBR #review #KingsofSavannah #CeladonReads #LiterarySuspense @georgedawesgreen @celadonbooks
#FirstLine - A soft spring night in Savannah.
#LarderaCoffeeRoasters #coldbrew #review #MMBBR
#LarderaCoffeeRoasters has created an absolute perfect #coldbrew pitcher. Whether you like your coffee strong or a bit weaker, this pitcher is for you! You can add grounds to your strength preference!
Plus, the coffee is…amazing! I actually said “Oh my, that’s good” when I took my first sip this morning!! I love getting the coffee ready the night before and having it waiting for me when I wake up. But, if you want iced coffee quicker just brew with hot water and add ice. The pitcher is designed to go from boiling to freezing in minutes.
Another plus, is that it is easy to clean!!! You can hand wash or toss it in the dishwasher.
The pitcher size is perfect to pack for trips as well, so you will never be without your cold brew! I am in love with this pitcher and cannot wait to start sampling all the coffees! Check it out here: https://www.lardera.com/
Wednesday, July 20, 2022
#MMBBR #Review #FirstLine #LoveMeNot #TheValentinesSeries #book3 by @holsmale via @Harper360
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
#FirstLine - You’re not going to like me.
I loved this book. It was just as good as the first and second in the Valentine’s Series. I love this family and the growth that the family makes from the start of the series to the end of the series. But, Mercy is the one who transforms the most. After a loss like no other she closed herself off. You get to bear witness to her becoming vulnerable, healing and learning to move forward. It was heartbreaking and hopeful. The whole family (each and every one of them) are all imperfect and wonderful. You will learn to love them all. It is a delight to follow Mercy on her journey to discover what it feel like to let go of the heavy burden of loss and guilt. This series was brilliant and heartwarming! I adored it so much! I was so sad to see it end, but it was perfectly tied up! Brilliant!
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#MMBBR #Review #FirstLine #AFAceToDieFor by @Iris_Johansen via @GrandCentralPub
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
#FirstLine - The sun was going down!
What more do you need to know other than this is another brilliant installment in The Eve Duncan series. Johansen is one of those writers that writes in a way where you can vividly picture the characters and setting. You are instantly pulled in and are grateful that when the book closes you know the story will continue on with another super book! Such a gift for Johansen’s readers and fans!!! A fabulous book! Loved it!
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#MMBBR #Review #FirstLIne #FirstBorn by @willrdean via @SimonBooks #Atria #EmilyBestlerBooks
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
#FirstLine - I am half a person.
I enjoy thrillers with twists, turns and unpredictable plots. I love outrageously awesome stories that make me uneasy and unsure what is going to happen. This story had all those things and more! I think if you like to be entertained and lose track of time, this is the story for you!!!
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#MMBBR #Review #FirstLine #MotherCountry by @JacindaAuMaroc via @WunderBooks_PR and @GraywolfPress
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
#FirstLine - And what, after all, to make of a choice?
Such a great first line, right!?!? I enjoyed this book. It makes you think, feel, and and will change you. The story is not easy to read, but the heartbreaking portions are so beautifully written and there are hopeful parts too. There is a balance in the story that allows the reader to go on a well paced journey. Townsend is truly a gifted storyteller! You will always remember this book and will want to chat with others about it! Also, be warned: This book is hard to put down!
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#MMBBR #Review #5stars #ActsOfViolet by @damiella via @netgalley and @Flatironbooks
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Ok, I have not loved a book this much in a long time! I thought it was so creative, well plotted, engaging, original and outright fun! It was such a deeply fleshed out story. I adored the fact that it was more than just a story, it felt like an experience! I was able to both listen and read this novel. I loved listening! It was so superbly done! The voices, sound effects…it was pure perfection! I HIGHLY recommend this book and know you will love it too! I will not soon forget this book! What a fabulous and magical story!!!
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Tuesday, July 19, 2022
#MMBBR #Review #TheBodyguard by @katherinecenter via @netgalley and @StMartinsPress
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
#FirstLine ~ My mother's dying wish was for me to take a vacation.
Wow, I loved this book. It was sweet and tender, but also deep and funny. It was one of those books that you cannot help but get swept up into the story, the setting and characters. It is everything you want in a great book. I would love to see one of Center's books becoming a movie or miniseries. This story has everything that makes a book to TV a hit!
I also listened to the audiobook and loved that too. It was beautifully done and captured the characters so well.
I highly recommend either listening or reading this story right away!!
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#MMBBR #Review #TheItGirl by @RuthWareWriter via @netgalley @GalleryBooks
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
#FirstLine ~ Afterwards, it was the door she would remember.
I loved this book. It bounces between before and after in perfect balance. I was uneasy the whole time reading, which is awesome. There was such an engaging plot and the pace was outstanding. The reader will be transfixed and delighted with this book cover to cover. A must read!
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Monday, July 18, 2022
#MMBBR #Review #FirstLine #NothingButTheTruth by #HollyJames via netgalley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
#FirstLine - Lucy Green stood on a precipice.
I am woman hear me roar! I loved that this book tackled topics we tend to not face head on. It was done so in a way that, most, if not all, woman can relate to. I loved that it made me laugh, feel and think. There is a great lead character and supporting characters that also are entertaining. This story may seem over the top to some, but to others it rings true. It is a great book for book clubs because there is a lot to unpack, which will be great for conversation!
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#MMBBR #TheNameSheGaveMe by @bettyculley via @harpercollins @mediamastersbks
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Check out this amazing book! You will be emotionally invested from page one! This story is about family, in all it forms, and about the deepest forms of love. This book is not to be missed!!!
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Tuesday, July 12, 2022
#MMBBR #Review #FirstLine #TheBestIsYetToCome by @debbiemacomber #BallantineBooks @randomhouse #DebbieInsider #BooksMakeGreatGifts #Review
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
#FirstLine ~ "All rise," the bailiff announced, as the judge stepped into the courtroom.
This book is another hit! I loved it. I loved the setting and the characters, and the story kept me interested from cover to cover. Macomber is a master of creating a world that plays out in your mind like a movie while you read. You see the story coming to life, you watch the characters through their ups and downs and want nothing but the best for them. This book has everything and you will adored it too. I promise! I highly recommend it! So grab it now, as it released today!
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Wednesday, July 6, 2022
#MMBBR #Review #FirstLine #OurCrookedHearts by @mimi_albert via @netgalley and @Flatironbooks
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
#FirstLine ~ We were going too fast.
I really enjoyed this book. I loved that it was filled with mystery, magic and interesting characters. I loved that it bounced back and forth between present and past filling in the story piece by piece. I enjoyed the fact that I never knew what was going to happen. I was totally engrossed in the story from start to finish. I was pleased with the ending too. Just a great overall book that keeps the reader engaged and engrossed!!!
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#MMBBR #Review #StealingInfinity by @AlysonNoel via @netgalley and @entangledpub
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I loved this book. I loved that there was so much more than just a great story. It was one of those books that make you think, feel and look beyond the regular world and into something much greater. I think that lovers of fantasy will be engrossed from page one and will think about this book long after they finish it.
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Sunday, June 26, 2022
#MMBBR #Review #FirstLine #WhenItFallsApart by #CatherineBybee via @netgalley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
#FirstLine ~ The wretched shriek of the telephone ripped the deep bliss of sleep instantly from her head and had Brooke shooting up off the pillow.
Such a sweet, and heartbreaking story, that tugs at the heart. This story will live in your heart long after you close the book. The characters are those that you can relate to and the struggles and triumphs are those that will resonate with readers. This would make a great buddy read and/or book club pick.
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Tuesday, May 31, 2022
#MMBBR #Review #FirstLine #TheLatecomer by @jeanhanffkoreli via @netgalley and @CeladonBooks
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
#FirstLine ~ Mom had a way of of obfuscating when anyone asked how she and our father first met.
Beautiful and thoughtful this book was one I will not soon forget. It was complicated and messy and brilliant. It was one of those books that slowly seeps in and then you realized you have been changed by it without knowing it. It was deep and special. It was so good, that it is hard to really put it into words. It was unlike many other books and that is why I loved it!
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