Kaye's bookshelf: read en-US Mon, 12 May 2025 23:52:35 -0700 60 Kaye's bookshelf: read 144 41 /images/layout/goodreads_logo_144.jpg Northanger Abbey 50398 Northanger Abbey is often referred to as Jane Austen's "Gothic parody." Decrepit castles, locked rooms, mysterious chests, cryptic notes, and tyrannical fathers give the story an uncanny air, but one with a decidedly satirical twist.

The story's unlikely heroine is Catherine Morland, a remarkably innocent seventeen-year-old woman from a country parsonage. While spending a few weeks in Bath with a family friend, Catherine meets and falls in love with Henry Tilney, who invites her to visit his family estate, Northanger Abbey. Once there, Catherine, a great reader of Gothic thrillers, lets the shadowy atmosphere of the old mansion fill her mind with terrible suspicions. What is the mystery surrounding the death of Henry's mother? Is the family concealing a terrible secret within the elegant rooms of the Abbey? Can she trust Henry, or is he part of an evil conspiracy? Catherine finds dreadful portents in the most prosaic events, until Henry persuades her to see the peril in confusing life with art.

Executed with high-spirited gusto, Northanger Abbey is a lighthearted, yet unsentimental commentary on love and marriage.]]> 260 Jane Austen 1593082649 Kaye 0 3.85 1817 Northanger Abbey
author: Jane Austen
name: Kaye
average rating: 3.85
book published: 1817
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/12
shelves: annual-austen, audiobook, books-read-in-2025, classic-british-lit, hist-19th-c-1800-1820s, currently-reading
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Normal Women: Nine Hundred Years of Making History]]> 70240521 The #1 New York Times bestselling historical novelist delivers her magnum opus—a landmark work of feminist nonfiction that radically redefines our understanding of the extraordinary roles ordinary women played throughout British history.

Most histories have been written by men, about men, relegating women—with the exception of a few queens—to the shadows of time. Now, bestselling author Philippa Gregory reveals the importance of ordinary women, providing a more balanced and truer chronicle that expands and adds rich detail to the story of Great Britain.

In Normal Women, Gregory draws on an enormous archive of primary and secondary sources to rewrite British history, focusing on the agency, persistence, and effectiveness of everyday women throughout periods of social and cultural transition. She sweeps from the making of the Bayeux tapestry in the eleventh century to the Black Death in 1348—after which women were briefly paid the same wages as men, the last time for seven centuries—to the 1992 ordination of women by the Church of England, when the church accepted, for the first time, that a woman could perform the miracle of the mass.

Through the stories of the female soldiers of the civil war, the guild widows who founded the prosperity of the City of London, highwaywomen and pirates, miners, ship owners, international traders, the women who ran London theaters and commissioned plays from Shakespeare, and the "female husbands" who married each other legally in church and lived as husband and wife, Gregory redefines "normal" female behavior to include heroism, rebellion, crime, treason, money-making, and sainthood. As she makes clear, normal women make history.

Normal Women will include black-and-white illustrations throughout and a full-color insert.]]> 688 Philippa Gregory 0063304325 Kaye 0 3.93 2023 Normal Women: Nine Hundred Years of Making History
author: Philippa Gregory
name: Kaye
average rating: 3.93
book published: 2023
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/04
shelves: audiobook, books-read-in-2025, hist-10th-15th-centuries, hist-16th-17th-centuries, hist-18th-century, hist-19th-c-1800-1820s, hist-19th-c-1830s-1899, nonfiction-british-history, currently-reading
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Butter, Sugar, Magic (Baking Up a Magical Midlife #1)]]> 61251803
At best, she’s expecting a kitschy candy dish, at worst a beloved taxidermied pet, so when Cassie—newly divorced, single mom with zero prospects—discovers she’s inheriting a fully stocked bakery along with a beautifully furnished apartment from a great aunt she’d never even heard of, she’s convinced she must be dreaming.

The apartment bizarrely adapting itself to her whims and the friendly neighbor floating fireballs in the air aren’t helping.

Cassie has two choices. She can hightail it out of this bewildering town and figure out a way to support her pre-teen daughter. Or she can stay and live the life of her dreams in this unsettling place where the rules of physics don’t seem to apply, and people are suspiciously friendly and welcoming.

When Cassie and her daughter agree to give this new place a trial run (the fantastic pet shop next door is a helpful draw), she’s not convinced they’ve made the right choice. That hesitation just might cost her the fantastic life she and her daughter deserve.

Butter, Sugar, Magic is the first book in the tantalizingly delicious new Baking Up a Magical Midlife Paranormal Women’s Fiction series by Jessica Rosenberg.]]> 359 Jessica Rosenberg 1736722921 Kaye 4 4.19 2022 Butter, Sugar, Magic (Baking Up a Magical Midlife #1)
author: Jessica Rosenberg
name: Kaye
average rating: 4.19
book published: 2022
rating: 4
read at: 2025/05/02
date added: 2025/05/02
shelves: audiobook, books-read-in-2025, contemporary-romance, paranormal-romance
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Soldier (Duke's Obsession, #2; Windham, #2)]]> 9932662 This Regency era battle of wits, wills, and the sexes features a wily duke determined to see the succession of his line secured. The duke can't force his sons to marry, but he can make their lives miserable until they do. Resisting his pressure, each gentleman holds out for true love.

The second book in the series features Devlin St. Just, the duke's oldest, but illegitimate, son. He arrives at his new estate weary in body and spirit only to find the previous owner's bastard daughter and her beautiful cousin are his responsibility and making his life almost unbearably complicated.

]]> 416 Grace Burrowes 140224567X Kaye 3 3.79 2011 The Soldier (Duke's Obsession, #2; Windham, #2)
author: Grace Burrowes
name: Kaye
average rating: 3.79
book published: 2011
rating: 3
read at: 2025/04/30
date added: 2025/04/30
shelves: books-read-in-2025, hist-19th-c-1800-1820s, historical-romance
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Rogue One: A Star Wars Story (Star Wars Novelizations, #3.5)]]> 30008713 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER - Go beyond the film with a novelization featuring new scenes and expanded material.

As the shadows of the Empire loom ever larger across the galaxy, so do deeply troubling rumors. The Rebellion has learned of a sinister Imperial plot to bring entire worlds to their knees. Deep in Empire-dominated space, a machine of unimaginable destructive power is nearing completion. A weapon too terrifying to contemplate . . . and a threat that may be too great to overcome.

If the worlds at the Empire's mercy stand any chance, it lies with an unlikely band of allies: Jyn Erso, a resourceful young woman seeking vengeance; Cassian Andor, a war-weary rebel commander; Bodhi Rook, a defector from the Empire's military; Chirrut Imwe, a blind holy man and his crack-shot companion, Baze Malbus; and K-2SO, a deadly Imperial droid turned against its former masters. In their hands rests the new hope that could turn the tide toward a crucial Rebellion victory--if only they can capture the plans to the Empire's new weapon.

But even as they race toward their dangerous goal, the specter of their ultimate enemy--a monstrous world unto itself--darkens the skies. Waiting to herald the Empire's brutal reign with a burst of annihilation worthy of its dreaded name: Death Star.

Praise for Rogue One: A Star Wars Story

"One of the best movie adaptations yet."--Cinelinx

"Rogue One bridged characters and elements of the prequels and original Star Wars trilogy in a visually stunning ride, but there are even more rich details hiding in the film's novelization, [which] reveals and expands with inner monologues and character insights, political knots, and nuance." --The Daily Dot

"Rogue One: A Star Wars Story novelization deepens a tale of hope. . . . [Jyn Erso] proves to be even more fascinating here than she was in the movie."--New York Daily News]]> 323 Alexander Freed 0399178457 Kaye 4 4.16 2016 Rogue One: A Star Wars Story (Star Wars Novelizations, #3.5)
author: Alexander Freed
name: Kaye
average rating: 4.16
book published: 2016
rating: 4
read at: 2025/04/30
date added: 2025/04/30
shelves: audiobook, books-read-in-2017, star-wars-trek, books-read-in-2020, books-read-in-2022, books-read-in-2025
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Chaucer's People: Everyday Lives in Medieval England]]> 35452769 'A holiday in the complex, joyful, indelicate medieval world'John Higgs, author of Watling StreetChaucer's People is an absorbing and revealing guide to the Middle Ages, populated with Chaucer's pilgrims from The Canterbury Tales. These are lives spent at the pedal of a loom, maintaining the ledgers of an estate or navigating the high seas. Drawing on contemporary experiences of a vast range of subjects including trade, religion, toe-curling remedies and hair-raising recipes, bestselling historian Liza Picard recreates the medieval world in glorious detail.]]> 431 Liza Picard Kaye 0 3.94 2017 Chaucer's People: Everyday Lives in Medieval England
author: Liza Picard
name: Kaye
average rating: 3.94
book published: 2017
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/22
shelves: hist-10th-15th-centuries, nonfiction-british-history, to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Work of Art (Somerset Stories, #1)]]> 46133134 An Uncommon Beauty...
Hidden away in rural Devonshire, Phyllida Satterthwaite has always been considered more odd than beautiful. But in London, her oddity has made her a sensation. Far worse, it's caught the eye of the sinister Duke of Moreland — a notorious art collector obsessed with acquiring one-of-a-kind treasures. To escape the duke's clutches, she's going to need a little help.

An Unlikely Hero...
Captain Arthur Heywood's days of heroism are long past. Grievously injured in the Peninsular War, he can no longer walk unaided, let alone shoot a pistol. What use can he possibly be to a damsel in distress? He has nothing left to offer except his good name.

Can a marriage of convenience save Philly from the vengeful duke? Or will life with Arthur put her — and her heart — in more danger than ever?]]> 392 Mimi Matthews 1733056904 Kaye 0 4.19 2019 The Work of Art (Somerset Stories, #1)
author: Mimi Matthews
name: Kaye
average rating: 4.19
book published: 2019
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/07
shelves: to-read, hist-19th-c-1800-1820s, historical-romance
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Jesus and John Wayne: How White Evangelicals Corrupted a Faith and Fractured a Nation]]> 53121662 A scholar of American Christianity presents a seventy-five-year history of evangelicalism that identifies the forces that have turned Donald Trump into a hero of the Religious Right.

How did a libertine who lacks even the most basic knowledge of the Christian faith win 81 percent of the white evangelical vote in 2016? And why have white evangelicals become a presidential reprobate’s staunchest supporters? These are among the questions acclaimed historian Kristin Kobes Du Mez asks in Jesus and John Wayne, which delves beyond facile headlines to explain how white evangelicals have brought us to our fractured political moment. Challenging the commonly held assumption that the “moral majority” backed Donald Trump for purely pragmatic reasons, Du Mez reveals that Donald Trump in fact represents the fulfillment, rather than the betrayal, of white evangelicals’ most deeply held values.

Jesus and John Wayne is a sweeping account of the last seventy-five years of white evangelicalism, showing how American evangelicals have worked for decades to replace the Jesus of the Gospels with an idol of rugged masculinity and Christian nationalism, or in the words of one modern chaplain, with “a spiritual badass.” As Du Mez explains, the key to understanding this transformation is to recognize the role of culture in modern American evangelicalism. Many of today’s evangelicals may not be theologically astute, but they know their VeggieTales, they’ve read John Eldredge’s Wild at Heart, and they learned about purity before they learned about sex—and they have a silver ring to prove it. Evangelical books, films, music, clothing, and merchandise shape the beliefs of millions. And evangelical popular culture is teeming with muscular heroes—mythical warriors and rugged soldiers, men like Oliver North, Ronald Reagan, Mel Gibson, and the Duck Dynasty clan, who assert white masculine power in defense of “Christian America.” Chief among these evangelical legends is John Wayne, an icon of a lost time when men were uncowed by political correctness, unafraid to tell it like it was, and did what needed to be done.

Trump, in other words, is hardly the first flashy celebrity to capture evangelicals’ hearts and minds, nor is he the first strongman to promise evangelicals protection and power. Indeed, the values and viewpoints at the heart of white evangelicalism today—patriarchy, authoritarian rule, aggressive foreign policy, fear of Islam, ambivalence toward #MeToo, and opposition to Black Lives Matter and the LGBTQ community—are likely to persist long after Trump leaves office.

A much-needed reexamination, Jesus and John Wayne explains why evangelicals have rallied behind the least-Christian president in American history and how they have transformed their faith in the process, with enduring consequences for all of us.]]> 356 Kristin Kobes Du Mez 1631495739 Kaye 4 books-read-in-2025 4.27 2020 Jesus and John Wayne: How White Evangelicals Corrupted a Faith and Fractured a Nation
author: Kristin Kobes Du Mez
name: Kaye
average rating: 4.27
book published: 2020
rating: 4
read at: 2025/04/02
date added: 2025/04/02
shelves: books-read-in-2025
review:

]]> Love Is a War Song 220687884 A Muscogee pop star and a cowboy who couldn’t be more different come together to strike a deal in this new romantic comedy by Danica Nava, author of The Truth According to Ember.

Pop singer Avery Fox has become a national joke after posing scantily clad on the cover of Rolling Stone in a feather warbonnet. What was meant to be a statement of her success as a Native American singer has turned her into a social pariah and dubbed her a fake. With threats coming from every direction and her career at a standstill, she escapes to her estranged grandmother Lottie’s ranch in Oklahoma. Living on the rez is new to Avery—not only does she have to work in the blazing summer heat to earn her keep, but the man who runs Lottie’s horse ranch despises her and wants her gone.

Red Fox Ranch has been home to Lucas Iron Eyes since he was sixteen years old. He has lived by three rules to keep himself out of trouble: 1) preserve the culture, 2) respect the horses, and 3) stick to himself. When he is tasked with picking up Lottie’s granddaughter at the bus station, the last person he expected to see is the Avery Fox. Lucas can’t stand what she represents, but when he’s forced to work with her on the ranch, he can’t get her out of his sight—or his head. He reminds himself to keep to his rules, especially after he finds out the ranch is under threat of being shut down.

It’s clear Avery doesn’t belong here, but they form a tentative truce and make a Avery will help raise funds to save the ranch, and in exchange, Lucas will show her what it really means to be an Indian. It’s purely transactional, absolutely no horsing around…but where’s the fun in that?]]> 336 Danica Nava 0593642627 Kaye 0 to-read 4.30 2025 Love Is a War Song
author: Danica Nava
name: Kaye
average rating: 4.30
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/01
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Wonderbook: The Illustrated Guide to Creating Imaginative Fiction]]> 40615610 Wonderbook has become the definitive guide to writing science fiction and fantasy by offering an accessible, example-rich approach that emphasizes the importance of playfulness as well as pragmatism. It also exploits the visual nature of genre culture and employs bold, full-color drawings, maps, renderings, and visualizations to stimulate creative thinking. On top of all that, the book features sidebars and essays from some of the biggest names working in the field today, including George R. R. Martin, Lev Grossman, Neil Gaiman, Michael Moorcock, and Karen Joy Fowler.

For the fifth anniversary of the original publication, Jeff VanderMeer has added an additional 50 pages of diagrams, illustrations, and writing exercises creating the ultimate volume of inspiring advice that is also a stunning and inspiring object.]]> 820 Jeff VanderMeer Kaye 4 4.32 2013 Wonderbook: The Illustrated Guide to Creating Imaginative Fiction
author: Jeff VanderMeer
name: Kaye
average rating: 4.32
book published: 2013
rating: 4
read at: 2025/03/21
date added: 2025/03/21
shelves: books-read-in-2025, nonfiction-writing-books, story-research
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Demon-Haunted World: Science as a Candle in the Dark]]> 17349
Casting a wide net through history and culture, Sagan examines and authoritatively debunks such celebrated fallacies of the past as witchcraft, faith healing, demons, and UFOs. And yet, disturbingly, in today's so-called information age, pseudoscience is burgeoning with stories of alien abduction, channeling past lives, and communal hallucinations commanding growing attention and respect. As Sagan demonstrates with lucid eloquence, the siren song of unreason is not just a cultural wrong turn but a dangerous plunge into darkness that threatens our most basic freedoms.]]> 459 Carl Sagan 0345409469 Kaye 0 4.28 1995 The Demon-Haunted World: Science as a Candle in the Dark
author: Carl Sagan
name: Kaye
average rating: 4.28
book published: 1995
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/13
shelves: audiobook, nonfiction-essays, nonfiction-political-science, nonfiction-religion, nonfiction-science, nonfiction-sociology-psychology, to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Left-Handed Booksellers of London (Left-Handed Booksellers of London, #1)]]> 49867186 A girl’s quest to find her father leads her to an extended family of magical fighting booksellers who police the mythical Old World of England when it intrudes on the modern world. From the bestselling master of teen fantasy, Garth Nix.

In a slightly alternate London in 1983, Susan Arkshaw is looking for her father, a man she has never met. Crime boss Frank Thringley might be able to help her, but Susan doesn’t get time to ask Frank any questions before he is turned to dust by the prick of a silver hatpin in the hands of the outrageously attractive Merlin.

Merlin is a young left-handed bookseller (one of the fighting ones), who with the right-handed booksellers (the intellectual ones), are an extended family of magical beings who police the mythic and legendary Old World when it intrudes on the modern world, in addition to running several bookshops.

Susan’s search for her father begins with her mother’s possibly misremembered or misspelt surnames, a reading room ticket, and a silver cigarette case engraved with something that might be a coat of arms.

Merlin has a quest of his own, to find the Old World entity who used ordinary criminals to kill his mother. As he and his sister, the right-handed bookseller Vivien, tread in the path of a botched or covered-up police investigation from years past, they find this quest strangely overlaps with Susan’s. Who or what was her father? Susan, Merlin, and Vivien must find out, as the Old World erupts dangerously into the New.]]> 416 Garth Nix 006268325X Kaye 0 3.81 2020 The Left-Handed Booksellers of London (Left-Handed Booksellers of London, #1)
author: Garth Nix
name: Kaye
average rating: 3.81
book published: 2020
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/09
shelves: to-read, fantasy, paranormal, young-adult
review:

]]> Beneath the Major's Scars 19077392 283 Sarah Mallory 1459249607 Kaye 3 4.09 2012 Beneath the Major's Scars
author: Sarah Mallory
name: Kaye
average rating: 4.09
book published: 2012
rating: 3
read at: 2025/02/19
date added: 2025/03/08
shelves: books-read-in-2025, hist-19th-c-1800-1820s, historical-romance
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Rebellion: The History of England from James I to the Glorious Revolution (The History of England, #3)]]> 19286679 Rebellion, he continues his dazzling account of the history of England, beginning with the progress south of the Scottish king, James VI, who on the death of Elizabeth I became the first Stuart king of England, and ending with the deposition and flight into exile of his grandson, James II.

The Stuart monarchy brought together the two nations of England and Scotland into one realm, albeit a realm still marked by political divisions that echo to this day. More importantly, perhaps, the Stuart era was marked by the cruel depredations of civil war, and the killing of a king. Shrewd and opinionated, James I was eloquent on matters as diverse as theology, witchcraft, and the abuses of tobacco, but his attitude to the English parliament sowed the seeds of the division that would split the country during the reign of his hapless heir, Charles I. Ackroyd offers a brilliant, warts-and-all portrayal of Charles's nemesis, Oliver Cromwell, Parliament's great military leader and England's only dictator, who began his career as a political liberator but ended it as much of a despot as "that man of blood," the king he executed.

England's turbulent seventeenth century is vividly laid out before us, but so too is the cultural and social life of the period, notable for its extraordinarily rich literature, including Shakespeare's late masterpieces, Jacobean tragedy, the poetry of John Donne and Milton and Thomas Hobbes's great philosophical treatise, Leviathan. In addition to its account of England's royalty, Rebellion also gives us a very real sense of the lives of ordinary English men and women, lived out against a backdrop of constant disruption and uncertainty.]]> 502 Peter Ackroyd 1250003636 Kaye 4 3.95 2014 Rebellion: The History of England from James I to the Glorious Revolution (The History of England, #3)
author: Peter Ackroyd
name: Kaye
average rating: 3.95
book published: 2014
rating: 4
read at: 2025/03/08
date added: 2025/03/08
shelves: hist-16th-17th-centuries, nonfiction-british-history, audiobook, books-read-in-2025
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Power Worshippers: Inside the Dangerous Rise of Religious Nationalism]]> 44453035 For readers of Democracy in Chains and Dark Money, a revelatory investigation of the Religious Right's rise to political power.

For too long the Religious Right has masqueraded as a social movement preoccupied with a number of cultural issues, such as abortion and same-sex marriage. But in her deeply reported investigation, Katherine Stewart reveals a disturbing truth: America's Religious Right has evolved into a Christian nationalist movement. It seeks to gain political power and impose its vision on society. It isn't fighting a culture war; it is waging a political war on the norms and institutions of American democracy.

Stewart shows that the real power of the movement lies in a dense network of think tanks, advocacy groups, and pastoral organizations, embedded in a rapidly expanding community of international alliances with like-minded, anti-democratic religious nationalists around the world, including Russia. She follows the money behind the movement and traces much of it to a group of super-wealthy, ultra-conservative donors and family foundations. The Christian nationalist movement is far more organized and better funded than most people realize. It seeks to control all aspects of government and society. Its successes have been stunning, and its influence now extends to every aspect of American life, from the White House to state capitols, from our schools to our hospitals.

The Power Worshippers is a brilliantly reported book of warning and a wake-up call. Stewart's probing examination demands that Christian nationalism be taken seriously as a significant threat to the American republic and American democratic freedoms.]]> 352 Katherine Stewart 1635573432 Kaye 0 4.25 2020 The Power Worshippers: Inside the Dangerous Rise of Religious Nationalism
author: Katherine Stewart
name: Kaye
average rating: 4.25
book published: 2020
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/19
shelves: to-read, nonfiction-american-history, nonfiction-political-science, nonfiction-religion
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Speak of the Devil: How The Satanic Temple is Changing the Way We Talk about Religion]]> 48765487
Speak of the Devil is the first book-length study of The Satanic Temple. Joseph Laycock, a scholar of new religious movements, contends that the emergence of "political Satanism" marks a significant moment in American religious history that will have a lasting impact on how Americans frame debates about religious freedom. Though the group gained attention for its strategic deployment of outrage, it claims to have developed beyond politics into a genuine religious movement. Equal parts history and ethnography, Speak of the Devil is Laycock's attempt to take seriously The Satanic Temple's work to redefine religion, the nature of pluralism and religious tolerance, and what "religious freedom" means in America.
]]> 272 Joseph Laycock 0190948493 Kaye 4 4.33 2020 Speak of the Devil: How The Satanic Temple is Changing the Way We Talk about Religion
author: Joseph Laycock
name: Kaye
average rating: 4.33
book published: 2020
rating: 4
read at: 2025/01/31
date added: 2025/02/02
shelves: audiobook, books-read-in-2025, nonfiction-atheism, nonfiction-political-science, nonfiction-religion
review:

]]> <![CDATA[A Cup of Flour, A Pinch of Death (Baker Street Mystery, #3)]]> 200488247
Thanks to Maddy’s social media savvy, Baby Cakes Bakery is becoming a huge success—so much so that she’s attracted the attention of her former nemesis, the fiancé-stealing Brandy Denton. When Brandy blows into New Bison like an ill wind and disrupts a vlog Maddy’s filming, their argument goes viral. After Brandy’s body is found in the freezer at Baby Cakes, Maddy instantly goes from viral sensation to murder suspect.

As Maddy is still reeling from the murder, a stranger shows up in the bakery claiming to have been a friend of Octavia. He believes Maddy is in danger. When a second body washes up on the lake shore, it seems clear someone’s out to kill to keep a secret—and it may have to do with her great aunt.

Maddy rallies her aunt’s friends, the Baker Street Irregulars; Sheriff April Johnson; and her veterinarian boyfriend Michael—not to mention her English mastiff Baby—to do some digging and root out whoever’s behind the killings . . .]]> 288 Valerie Burns 1496738241 Kaye 0 to-read, audiobook, mystery 3.92 2024 A Cup of Flour, A Pinch of Death (Baker Street Mystery, #3)
author: Valerie Burns
name: Kaye
average rating: 3.92
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/28
shelves: to-read, audiobook, mystery
review:

]]> Evvie Drake Starts Over 40514431
Meanwhile, in New York City, Dean Tenney, former Major League pitcher and Andy’s childhood best friend, is wrestling with what miserable athletes living out their worst nightmares call the “yips”: he can’t throw straight anymore, and, even worse, he can’t figure out why. As the media storm heats up, an invitation from Andy to stay in Maine seems like the perfect chance to hit the reset button on Dean’s future.

When he moves into an apartment at the back of Evvie’s house, the two make a deal: Dean won’t ask about Evvie’s late husband, and Evvie won’t ask about Dean’s baseball career. Rules, though, have a funny way of being broken—and what starts as an unexpected friendship soon turns into something more. To move forward, Evvie and Dean will have to reckon with their pasts—the friendships they’ve damaged, the secrets they’ve kept—but in life, as in baseball, there’s always a chance—up until the last out.]]> 289 Linda Holmes 0525619240 Kaye 0 3.80 2019 Evvie Drake Starts Over
author: Linda Holmes
name: Kaye
average rating: 3.80
book published: 2019
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/28
shelves: contemporary-romance, sounds-interesting
review:

]]> The Truth According to Ember 201751362 A Chickasaw woman who can’t catch a break serves up a little white lie that snowballs into much more in this witty and irresistible rom-com by debut author Danica Nava.

Ember Lee Cardinal has not always been a liar—well, not for anything that counted at least. But her job search is not going well and when her resumé is rejected for the thirty-seventh time, she takes matters into her own hands. She gets “creative” listing her qualifications and answers the ethnicity question on applications with a lie—a half-lie, technically. No one wanted Native American Ember, but white Ember has just landed her dream accounting job on Park Avenue (Oklahoma City, that is). Accountant Ember thrives in corporate life—and her love life seems to be looking up Danuwoa Colson, the IT guy and fellow Native who caught her eye on her first day, seems to actually be interested in her too. Despite her unease over the no-dating policy at work, they start to see each other secretly, which somehow makes it even hotter? But when they're caught in a compromising position on a work trip, a scheming colleague blackmails Ember, threatening to expose their relationship. As the manipulation continues to grow, so do Ember’s lies. She must make the hard decision to either stay silent or finally tell the truth, which could cost her everything.]]> 382 Danica Nava 0593642619 Kaye 0 to-read, contemporary-romance 3.73 2024 The Truth According to Ember
author: Danica Nava
name: Kaye
average rating: 3.73
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/28
shelves: to-read, contemporary-romance
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Toxic Feedback: Helping Writers Survive and Thrive]]> 2102671 168 Joni B. Cole 1584655445 Kaye 0 4.33 2006 Toxic Feedback: Helping Writers Survive and Thrive
author: Joni B. Cole
name: Kaye
average rating: 4.33
book published: 2006
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/28
shelves: nonfiction-writing-books, sounds-interesting
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek (The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek, #1)]]> 40914165 An alternate cover edition for ISBN 978-1492671527 can be found here.

In 1936, tucked deep into the woods of Troublesome Creek, KY, lives blue-skinned 19-year-old Cussy Carter, the last living female of the rare Blue People ancestry.

The lonely young Appalachian woman joins the historical Pack Horse Library Project of Kentucky and becomes a librarian, riding across slippery creek beds and up treacherous mountains on her faithful mule to deliver books and other reading material to the impoverished hill people of Eastern Kentucky.

Along her dangerous route, Cussy, known to the mountain folk as Bluet, confronts those suspicious of her damselfly-blue skin and the government's new book program. She befriends hardscrabble and complex fellow Kentuckians, and is fiercely determined to bring comfort and joy, instill literacy, and give to those who have nothing, a bookly respite, a fleeting retreat to faraway lands.]]> 309 Kim Michele Richardson Kaye 0 4.17 2019 The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek (The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek, #1)
author: Kim Michele Richardson
name: Kaye
average rating: 4.17
book published: 2019
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/28
shelves: sounds-interesting, hist-20th-century, historical-fiction
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Frugal Wizard's Handbook for Surviving Medieval England]]> 63068377 The Frugal Wizard's Handbook for Surviving Medieval England, except his copy exploded during transit. The few fragments he managed to save provide clues to his situation, but can he figure them out in time to survive?]]> 366 Brandon Sanderson 1250899672 Kaye 0 3.75 2023 The Frugal Wizard's Handbook for Surviving Medieval England
author: Brandon Sanderson
name: Kaye
average rating: 3.75
book published: 2023
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/28
shelves: sounds-interesting, sci-fi, time-travel
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Lancaster and York: The Wars of the Roses]]> 6680798
Alison Weir's lucid and gripping account focuses on the human side of history, on the people and personalities involved in the conflict. At the centre of the book stands Henry VI, the pious king whose mental instability led to political chaos, Richard Plantagenet, Duke of York and Henry's rival, and most important of all, Margaret of Anjou, Henry's wife who took up her arms in her husband's cause and battled for many years in a violent man's world.]]> 462 Alison Weir 0099540177 Kaye 3 3.97 1995 Lancaster and York: The Wars of the Roses
author: Alison Weir
name: Kaye
average rating: 3.97
book published: 1995
rating: 3
read at: 2025/01/25
date added: 2025/01/26
shelves: audiobook, books-read-in-2025, hist-10th-15th-centuries, nonfiction-british-history
review:

]]> We Were All Rooting For You 222666685 Franchesca Ramsey Kaye 4 3.60 We Were All Rooting For You
author: Franchesca Ramsey
name: Kaye
average rating: 3.60
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2025/01/26
date added: 2025/01/26
shelves: audiobook, books-read-in-2025, nonfiction-media-and-entertainment
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Sioux Chef's Indigenous Kitchen]]> 58719500 2018ĚýJames Beard Award ĚýBest American Cookbook Named one of the Best Cookbooks of 2017 by NPR,ĚýThe Village Voice,ĚýSmithsonian Magazine, UPROXX,ĚýNew York Magazine,ĚýSan Francisco Chronicle, Mpls. St. PaulMagazine and others Here is real food—our indigenous American fruits and vegetables, the wild and foraged ingredients, game and fish. Locally sourced, seasonal, “clean” ingredients and nose-to-tail cooking are nothing new to Sean Sherman, the Oglala Lakota chef and founder of The Sioux Chef. In his breakout book, The Sioux Chef’s Indigenous Kitchen, Sherman shares his approach to creating boldly seasoned foods that are vibrant, healthful, at once elegant and easy.Ěý

Sherman dispels outdated notions of Native American fare—no fry bread or Indian tacos here—and no European staples such as wheat flour, dairy products, sugar, and domestic pork and beef. The Sioux Chef’s healthful plates embrace venison and rabbit, river and lake trout, duck and quail, wild turkey, blueberries, sage, sumac, timpsula or wild turnip, plums, purslane, and abundant wildflowers. Contemporary and authentic, his dishes feature cedar braised bison, griddled wild rice cakes, amaranth crackers with smoked white bean paste, three sisters salad, deviled duck eggs, smoked turkey soup, dried meats, roasted corn sorbet, and hazelnut–maple bites.

The Sioux Chef’s Indigenous Kitchen is a rich education and a delectable introduction to modern indigenous cuisine of the Dakota and Minnesota territories, with a vision and approach to food that travels well beyond those borders.]]> 236 Sean Sherman 1452967431 Kaye 5 books-read-in-2025, cookbooks 4.42 2017 The Sioux Chef's Indigenous Kitchen
author: Sean Sherman
name: Kaye
average rating: 4.42
book published: 2017
rating: 5
read at: 2025/01/20
date added: 2025/01/20
shelves: books-read-in-2025, cookbooks
review:

]]> Trial by Desire (Carhart, #2) 7873953
In the three years since her husband left her, Lady Kate Carhart has managed to forge a fulfilling life for herself. But when Ned Carhart unexpectedly returns, she finds her tranquility uprooted --- and her deepest secrets threatened. Though she has no intention of falling for Ned's charms, Kate can no longer deny the desire that still burns in her heart.

OR THE PROMISE OF HIS LOVE ...

Ned is determined to regain his wife's trust by using unbridled seduction. But just as Kate surrenders to Ned's passion, her carefully guarded past threatens to destroy her. Now Kate must place her faith in the only man she's ever loved, and the only one who has ever betrayed her ...]]> 360 Courtney Milan 0373774850 Kaye 0 3.55 2010 Trial by Desire (Carhart, #2)
author: Courtney Milan
name: Kaye
average rating: 3.55
book published: 2010
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/20
shelves: to-read, milan-backlist, historical-romance
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Proof by Seduction (Carhart, #1)]]> 6571963 She was his last chance for a future of happiness...

A gifted fortune-teller from a humble background, Jenny can make even the most sophisticated skeptic believe her predictions simply by batting her smoky eyelashes. Until she meets her match in Gareth Carhart, the Marquess of Blakely, a sworn bachelor and scientist.

He just didn't know it yet

Broodingly handsome, Gareth is scandalized to discover his cousin has fallen under the spell of "Madame Esmerelda," and vows to prove Jenny a fraud. But his unexpected attraction to the fiery enchantress defies logic. Jenny disrupts every facet of Gareth's calculated plan--until he can't decide whether to seduce her or ruin her. Now, as they engage in a passionate battle of wills, two lonely souls must choose between everything they know...and the boundless possibilities of love.]]> 345 Courtney Milan 0373774397 Kaye 0 3.79 2009 Proof by Seduction (Carhart, #1)
author: Courtney Milan
name: Kaye
average rating: 3.79
book published: 2009
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/20
shelves: to-read, milan-backlist, historical-romance
review:

]]> Birthday Gift (Turner, #0.5) 12546822 Unveiled, but you should read it after. Not intended as a stand-alone.]]> 6 Courtney Milan Kaye 0 3.39 2011 Birthday Gift (Turner, #0.5)
author: Courtney Milan
name: Kaye
average rating: 3.39
book published: 2011
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/20
shelves: to-read, historical-romance, milan-backlist
review:

]]> The Lady Always Wins 17408204
Nobody has ever come close to taking the place that Virginia Barrett had in Simon Davenant’s heart. As a child, Ginny was his best friend and comrade-in-arms. As a young lady, she became his sweetheart. But when his parents discovered their growing affection, they threatened to cut Simon off without a penny if he married her. And when Simon planned an elopement, Ginny refused: She wasn’t going to marry a poor man. Ever.

Until someone loses a fortune.

In the seven years since they last saw one another, Ginny has been married and then widowed. Simon has built an empire as a railway financier. When they meet again, there’s still that same delicious, playful attraction between them. But only Simon knows how tenuous his second chance really is. Everyone believes that Simon is wealthy. In truth, his company has been taken over by a hostile competitor and he is ruined. He knows from bitter experience that Ginny won’t marry a poor man. And so he has three days until the news becomes public—three days to seduce, woo, and marry the woman he cannot forget, or risk losing her…and this time, for good.]]> 71 Courtney Milan 1937248119 Kaye 0 3.55 2012 The Lady Always Wins
author: Courtney Milan
name: Kaye
average rating: 3.55
book published: 2012
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/20
shelves: to-read, milan-backlist, historical-romance
review:

]]> Unraveled (Turner, #3) 11100750
Miranda Darling isn't in trouble—yet. But she's close enough that when Turner threatens her with imprisonment if she puts one foot wrong, she knows she should run in the other direction. And yet no matter how forbidding the man seems on the outside, she can't bring herself to leave. Instead, when he tries to push her away, she pushes right back—straight through his famous self-control, and into the heart of the passion that he has long hidden away.]]> 258 Courtney Milan 193724802X Kaye 0 4.05 2011 Unraveled (Turner, #3)
author: Courtney Milan
name: Kaye
average rating: 4.05
book published: 2011
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/20
shelves: to-read, milan-backlist, historical-romance
review:

]]> Unclaimed (Turner, #2) 10301090 Her only hope for survival...

Handsome, wealthy and respected, Sir Mark Turner is the most sought-after bachelor in all of London and he's known far and wide for his irreproachable character. But behind his virtuous reputation lies a passionate nature he keeps carefully in check...until he meets the beautiful Jessica Farleigh, the woman he's waited for all his life.

Is to ruin the man she loves...

But Jessica is a courtesan, not the genteel lady Sir Mark believes. Desperate to be free of a life she despises, she seizes her chance when Mark's enemies make her an offer she can't refuse--seduce Mark and tarnish his good name, and a princely sum will be hers. Yet as she comes to know the man she's sworn to destroy, Jessica will be forced to choose between the future she needs and the love she knows is impossible.

]]> 425 Courtney Milan 0373776039 Kaye 0 3.92 2011 Unclaimed (Turner, #2)
author: Courtney Milan
name: Kaye
average rating: 3.92
book published: 2011
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/20
shelves: to-read, milan-backlist, historical-romance
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Talk Sweetly to Me (Brothers Sinister, #4.5)]]> 23000024
All of England knows who Stephen Shaughnessy is. He's an infamous advice columnist and a known rake. When he moves into the house next door to Rose, she discovers that he's also wickedly funny, devilishly flirtatious, and heart-stoppingly handsome. But when he takes an interest in her mathematical work, she realizes that Mr. Shaughnessy isn't just a scandal waiting to happen. He's waiting to happen to her...and if she's not careful, she'll give in to certain ruination.]]> 100 Courtney Milan 1937248224 Kaye 0 3.70 2014 Talk Sweetly to Me (Brothers Sinister, #4.5)
author: Courtney Milan
name: Kaye
average rating: 3.70
book published: 2014
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/20
shelves: to-read, milan-backlist, historical-romance
review:

]]> Keep Me (Cyclone, #4) 29654191 Keep Me will be about Ellie Wise, who will appear for the first time in Find Me, and Aaron, who you’ll see very, very briefly in Hold Me.]]> Courtney Milan Kaye 0 3.00 Keep Me (Cyclone, #4)
author: Courtney Milan
name: Kaye
average rating: 3.00
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/20
shelves: to-read, contemporary-romance, milan-backlist
review:

]]> <![CDATA[What Lies Between Me and You (Cyclone, #3.5)]]> 29655293 • a multi-billionaire—one of the richest men in the world
• the visionary founder and leader of Cyclone Technologies
• a man so foul-mouthed that his employees refer to him as “AFR”—and no, the “F” does not stand for “Fred”But you know what they say. Behind every great man, there is… Well. You’ll have to wait to find that out.]]> Courtney Milan Kaye 0 4.33 What Lies Between Me and You (Cyclone, #3.5)
author: Courtney Milan
name: Kaye
average rating: 4.33
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/20
shelves: to-read, contemporary-romance, milan-backlist
review:

]]> Find Me (Cyclone, #3) 24348130
Tina Chen wants to believe in a future with Blake. But when she tries to make his life easier by bringing his father into the confusing tangle, the conflict escalates from a difficult family matter into a worldwide scandal. Loving Blake is easy, but the temporary happiness they’ve found together just means she’s all the more aware when “ever after” begins to slip out of her grasp…]]> 350 Courtney Milan Kaye 0 3.92 Find Me (Cyclone, #3)
author: Courtney Milan
name: Kaye
average rating: 3.92
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/20
shelves: to-read, contemporary-romance, milan-backlist
review:

]]> Hold Me (Cyclone, #2) 24348034
Maria has always been cautious. Now that her once-tiny, apocalypse-centered blog is hitting the mainstream, she’s even more careful about preserving her online anonymity. She hasn’t sent so much as a picture to the commenter she’s interacted with for eighteen months—not even after emails, hour-long chats, and a friendship that is slowly turning into more. Maybe one day, they’ll meet and see what happens.

But unbeknownst to them both, Jay is Maria’s commenter. They’ve already met. They already hate each other. And two determined enemies are about to discover that they’ve been secretly falling in love…]]> 303 Courtney Milan Kaye 0 3.93 2016 Hold Me (Cyclone, #2)
author: Courtney Milan
name: Kaye
average rating: 3.93
book published: 2016
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/20
shelves: to-read, contemporary-romance, milan-backlist
review:

]]> Trade Me (Cyclone, #1) 23566506
To her shock, Blake offers her a trade: She’ll get his income, his house, his car. In exchange, he’ll work her hours and send money home to her family. No expectations; no future obligations.

But before long, they’re trading not just lives, but secrets, kisses, and heated nights together. No expectations might break Tina’s heart...but Blake’s secrets could ruin her life.]]> 279 Courtney Milan 193724847X Kaye 0 3.73 2015 Trade Me (Cyclone, #1)
author: Courtney Milan
name: Kaye
average rating: 3.73
book published: 2015
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/20
shelves: to-read, contemporary-romance, milan-backlist
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Once and Future Earl (The Worth Saga, #7)]]> 29654006 Courtney Milan Kaye 0 4.38 The Once and Future Earl (The Worth Saga, #7)
author: Courtney Milan
name: Kaye
average rating: 4.38
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/20
shelves: to-read, milan-backlist, historical-romance
review:

]]> <![CDATA[A Tale of Two Viscounts (The Worth Saga, #6)]]> 29653994 Courtney Milan Kaye 0 4.12 A Tale of Two Viscounts (The Worth Saga, #6)
author: Courtney Milan
name: Kaye
average rating: 4.12
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/20
shelves: to-read, milan-backlist, historical-romance
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Kissing Hour (The Worth Saga #5)]]> 29653972 Courtney Milan Kaye 0 4.00 The Kissing Hour (The Worth Saga #5)
author: Courtney Milan
name: Kaye
average rating: 4.00
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/20
shelves: to-read, milan-backlist, historical-romance
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Return of the Scoundrel (The Worth Saga, #4)]]> 29653965 Courtney Milan Kaye 0 3.36 The Return of the Scoundrel (The Worth Saga, #4)
author: Courtney Milan
name: Kaye
average rating: 3.36
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/20
shelves: to-read, milan-backlist, historical-romance
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Devil Comes Courting (The Worth Saga, #3)]]> 24906908
Except the reclusive genius is not a man, and she’s not looking for employment.

Amelia Smith was born in Shanghai, and taken in by English missionaries. She’s not interested in Captain Hunter’s promises or his ambitions. But the harder he tries to convince her, the more she realizes that there is something she wants from him: She wants everything. And she’ll have to crack the frozen shell he’s made of his heart to get it.]]> 420 Courtney Milan Kaye 0 4.18 2021 The Devil Comes Courting (The Worth Saga, #3)
author: Courtney Milan
name: Kaye
average rating: 4.18
book published: 2021
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/20
shelves: to-read, milan-backlist, historical-romance
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Mrs. Martin’s Incomparable Adventure (The Worth Saga, #2.75)]]> 44084867
Then proper, correct Miss Violetta Beauchamps, a sprightly young thing of nine and sixty, crashes into her life. The Terrible Nephew is living in her rooming house, and Violetta wants him gone.

Mrs. Martin isn’t about to start giving damns, not even for someone as intriguing as Miss Violetta. But she hatches another plan—to make her nephew sorry, to make Miss Violetta smile, and to have the finest adventure of all time.

If she makes Terrible Men angry and wins the hand of a lovely lady in the process? Those are just added bonuses.

Author’s Note: Sometimes I write villains who are subtle and nuanced. This is not one of those times. The Terrible Nephew is terrible, and terrible things happen to him. Sometime villains really are bad and wrong, and sometimes, we want them to suffer a lot of consequences.]]> 156 Courtney Milan 1937248690 Kaye 0 3.96 2019 Mrs. Martin’s Incomparable Adventure (The Worth Saga, #2.75)
author: Courtney Milan
name: Kaye
average rating: 3.96
book published: 2019
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/20
shelves: to-read, milan-backlist, historical-romance
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Pursuit Of... (The Worth Saga, #2.5)]]> 39962903
• They attempted to kill each other the first time they met.
• They're liable to try again at some point in the five-hundred mile journey that they're inexplicably sharing.
• They are not falling in love with each other.
• They are not falling in love with each other.
• They are… Oh, no.

The Pursuit Of… is about a love affair between two men and the Declaration of Independence. It’s a novella of around 38,000 words.]]> 154 Courtney Milan 1937248674 Kaye 0 4.14 2018 The Pursuit Of... (The Worth Saga, #2.5)
author: Courtney Milan
name: Kaye
average rating: 4.14
book published: 2018
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/20
shelves: to-read, milan-backlist, historical-romance
review:

]]> <![CDATA[After the Wedding (The Worth Saga, #2)]]> 22817537
Lady Camilla Worth has never expected much out of life—not since her father was convicted of treason and she was passed from family to family. A marriage, no matter how unfortunate the circumstances under which it was contracted, should mean stability. It’s unfortunate that her groom doesn’t agree. But Camilla has made the best of worse circumstances. She is determined to make her marriage work. All she has to do is seduce her reluctant husband.]]> 364 Courtney Milan 1717220576 Kaye 0 3.68 2018 After the Wedding (The Worth Saga, #2)
author: Courtney Milan
name: Kaye
average rating: 3.68
book published: 2018
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/20
shelves: to-read, milan-backlist, historical-romance
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Her Every Wish (The Worth Saga, #1.5)]]> 22817504
Daisy’s father is dead, her mother is in ill health, and her available funds have dwindled to a memory. When the local parish announces a Christmas charity bequest to help young people start a trade, it’s her last chance. So what if the grants are intended for men? If she’s good enough, she might bluff her way into a future.

When Crash offers to show her how to swagger with confidence, she knows he is up to no good. But with her life in the balance, she’s desperate enough to risk the one thing she hasn’t yet lost: her heart.]]> 117 Courtney Milan Kaye 0 3.74 2016 Her Every Wish (The Worth Saga, #1.5)
author: Courtney Milan
name: Kaye
average rating: 3.74
book published: 2016
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/20
shelves: to-read, milan-backlist, historical-romance
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Marquis Who Mustn't (Wedgeford Trials, #2)]]> 198271721 372 Courtney Milan 1937248755 Kaye 0 4.21 2023 The Marquis Who Mustn't (Wedgeford Trials, #2)
author: Courtney Milan
name: Kaye
average rating: 4.21
book published: 2023
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/20
shelves: to-read, historical-romance, milan-backlist
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Duke Who Didn't (Wedgeford Trials, #1)]]> 55012301
Except now he’s back. Jeremy Wentworth, the Duke of Lansing, has returned to the tiny village he once visited with the hope of wooing Chloe. In his defense, it took him years of attempting to be serious to realize that the endeavor was incompatible with his personality.

All he has to do is convince Chloe to make room for a mischievous trickster in her life, then disclose that in all the years they’ve known each other, he’s failed to mention his real name, his title… and the minor fact that he owns her entire village.

Only one thing can go wrong: Everything.]]> 352 Courtney Milan Kaye 0 3.90 2020 The Duke Who Didn't (Wedgeford Trials, #1)
author: Courtney Milan
name: Kaye
average rating: 3.90
book published: 2020
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/20
shelves: to-read, historical-romance, milan-backlist
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Secret Diary of Lizzie Bennet]]> 20945941 Based on the Emmy Award–winning YouTube series The Lizzie Bennet Diaries.Twenty‑four‑year‑old grad student Lizzie Bennet is saddled with student loan debt and still living at home along with her two sisters—beautiful Jane and reckless Lydia. When she records her reflections on life for her thesis project and posts them on YouTube, she has no idea The Lizzie Bennet Diaries will soon take on a life of their own, turning the Bennet sisters into internet celebrities seemingly overnight. When rich and handsome Bing Lee comes to town, along with his stuck‑up friend William Darcy, things really start to get interesting for the Bennets—and for Lizzie’s viewers. But not everything happens on‑screen. Lucky for us, Lizzie has a secret diary. The Secret Diary of Lizzie Bennet takes readers deep inside Lizzie’s world and well beyond the confines of her camera—from the wedding where she first meets William Darcy to the local hangout of Carter’s bar, and much more. Lizzie’s private musings are filled with revealing details about the Bennet household, including her growing suspicions about her parents’ unstable financial situation, her sister’s budding relationship with Bing Lee, the perils of her unexpected fame, and her uncertainty over her future—and whom she wants to share it with. Featuring plenty of fresh twists to delight fans and new readers alike, The Secret Diary of Lizzie Bennet expands on the web series phenomenon that captivated a generation and reimagines the Pride and Prejudice story like never before.]]> 10 Bernie Su 1442375051 Kaye 5 Story: 5 stars
Narrator (Ashley Clements): 5 stars

Loved this novelization of the webseries as much as I hoped and then some! I love getting the "behind the scenes" scenes---Lizzie with her parents, more of Dizzie and Jing, and more of Lizzie's thoughts, reactions, and insights on everything that happened, but, most especially, her relationship with Lydia.

And, of course, it was wonderful to hear it all in the voice of Ashley Clements, Lizzie Bennet herself. She did a pretty good job of imitating all of her costars from the series in the major roles. And, of course, her reprisal of the voices of Mr. and Mrs. Bennet.

It was also fascinating to get more information about Lizzie's "independent study" projects that she mentions from time to time in the webseries and to "see" more of Dr. Gardiner (and to read/listen between the lines to know that Dr. G was probably also playing matchmaker right along with Gigi).

Excellent, excellent way to round out this modern retelling of Pride & Prejudice. Now I want to rewatch the series!]]> 4.12 2014 The Secret Diary of Lizzie Bennet
author: Bernie Su
name: Kaye
average rating: 4.12
book published: 2014
rating: 5
read at: 2025/01/19
date added: 2025/01/20
shelves: books-read-in-2014, audiobook, contemporary-romance, books-read-in-2015, books-read-in-2025
review:
Review from first reading in 2014:
Story: 5 stars
Narrator (Ashley Clements): 5 stars

Loved this novelization of the webseries as much as I hoped and then some! I love getting the "behind the scenes" scenes---Lizzie with her parents, more of Dizzie and Jing, and more of Lizzie's thoughts, reactions, and insights on everything that happened, but, most especially, her relationship with Lydia.

And, of course, it was wonderful to hear it all in the voice of Ashley Clements, Lizzie Bennet herself. She did a pretty good job of imitating all of her costars from the series in the major roles. And, of course, her reprisal of the voices of Mr. and Mrs. Bennet.

It was also fascinating to get more information about Lizzie's "independent study" projects that she mentions from time to time in the webseries and to "see" more of Dr. Gardiner (and to read/listen between the lines to know that Dr. G was probably also playing matchmaker right along with Gigi).

Excellent, excellent way to round out this modern retelling of Pride & Prejudice. Now I want to rewatch the series!
]]> <![CDATA[Star Wars: The Rise and Fall of the Galactic Empire]]> 208713594 A history of the dark times"So this is how liberty dies—with thunderous applause."-Senator Padmé AmidalaWhen Palpatine declared the birth of his new Empire, he expected it would stand for millennia. Instead, it lasted only 24 years. This is the story of how a tyrannical regime rose from the ashes of democracy, ruled the galaxy with an iron fist, and then collapsed into dust.It is a story of war and heroes, of the power of propaganda and the dangers of complacency. But most of all, it is a story of normal people trying to live their lives in the face of a brutal dictatorship.From the ruthlessness of Darth Vader's campaigns to the horrors of the Tarkin Initiative, this book offers fresh new insights into the dark entity at the core of Star Wars.© AND ™ 2024 LUCASFILM LTD.]]> 395 Chris Kempshall 0744098823 Kaye 5 4.38 2024 Star Wars: The Rise and Fall of the Galactic Empire
author: Chris Kempshall
name: Kaye
average rating: 4.38
book published: 2024
rating: 5
read at: 2025/01/17
date added: 2025/01/17
shelves: books-read-in-2025, star-wars-trek
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Sacred Cows: A Lighthearted Look at Belief and Tradition Around the World]]> 25807618 212 Seth Andrews 1478749962 Kaye 4 3.85 2015 Sacred Cows: A Lighthearted Look at Belief and Tradition Around the World
author: Seth Andrews
name: Kaye
average rating: 3.85
book published: 2015
rating: 4
read at: 2025/01/14
date added: 2025/01/14
shelves: audiobook, books-read-in-2024, nonfiction-atheism, books-read-in-2025
review:

]]> Jillaroo (Jillaroo, #1) 1295992
Will she choose a life of wheat farming on vast open plains with Charlie? Or will she return to the mountains, to fight for the land and the river that runs through her soul?

It's only when tragedy shatters her world that Rebecca finds a strength and courage she never knew she had, in this action packed novel of adventure, dreams and determination.]]> 480 Rachael Treasure Kaye 3
Well, I'm not sure exactly what I was expecting in this book . . . but this wasn't it. I didn't realize that in contemporary Australian literature "rural fiction" means "more drinking and carousing than character development" and "no plot." Or a meandering, weak plot at best.

Ah, well . . . I've expanded my reading horizons and I had a good time listening to narrator Miranda Nation for her lyrical accent and trying to figure out what all of the Aussie colloquialisms and slang and trying to figure out what they meant in context rather than having to look them up.

Merged review:

~2.5 stars

Well, I'm not sure exactly what I was expecting in this book . . . but this wasn't it. I didn't realize that in contemporary Australian literature "rural fiction" means "more drinking and carousing than character development" and "no plot." Or a meandering, weak plot at best.

Ah, well . . . I've expanded my reading horizons and I had a good time listening to narrator Miranda Nation for her lyrical accent and trying to figure out what all of the Aussie colloquialisms and slang and trying to figure out what they meant in context rather than having to look them up.]]> 4.15 2002 Jillaroo (Jillaroo, #1)
author: Rachael Treasure
name: Kaye
average rating: 4.15
book published: 2002
rating: 3
read at: 2015/08/10
date added: 2025/01/14
shelves: audiobook, books-read-in-2015, contemporary-fiction, did-not-finish
review:
~2.5 stars

Well, I'm not sure exactly what I was expecting in this book . . . but this wasn't it. I didn't realize that in contemporary Australian literature "rural fiction" means "more drinking and carousing than character development" and "no plot." Or a meandering, weak plot at best.

Ah, well . . . I've expanded my reading horizons and I had a good time listening to narrator Miranda Nation for her lyrical accent and trying to figure out what all of the Aussie colloquialisms and slang and trying to figure out what they meant in context rather than having to look them up.

Merged review:

~2.5 stars

Well, I'm not sure exactly what I was expecting in this book . . . but this wasn't it. I didn't realize that in contemporary Australian literature "rural fiction" means "more drinking and carousing than character development" and "no plot." Or a meandering, weak plot at best.

Ah, well . . . I've expanded my reading horizons and I had a good time listening to narrator Miranda Nation for her lyrical accent and trying to figure out what all of the Aussie colloquialisms and slang and trying to figure out what they meant in context rather than having to look them up.
]]> <![CDATA[The Lightning Thief (Percy Jackson and the Olympians, #1)]]> 28187 Alternate cover for this ISBN can be found here

Percy Jackson is a good kid, but he can't seem to focus on his schoolwork or control his temper. And lately, being away at boarding school is only getting worse - Percy could have sworn his pre-algebra teacher turned into a monster and tried to kill him. When Percy's mom finds out, she knows it's time that he knew the truth about where he came from, and that he go to the one place he'll be safe. She sends Percy to Camp Half Blood, a summer camp for demigods (on Long Island), where he learns that the father he never knew is Poseidon, God of the Sea. Soon a mystery unfolds and together with his friends—one a satyr and the other the demigod daughter of Athena - Percy sets out on a quest across the United States to reach the gates of the Underworld (located in a recording studio in Hollywood) and prevent a catastrophic war between the gods.]]> 377 Rick Riordan 0786838655 Kaye 3 4.31 2005 The Lightning Thief (Percy Jackson and the Olympians, #1)
author: Rick Riordan
name: Kaye
average rating: 4.31
book published: 2005
rating: 3
read at: 2025/01/07
date added: 2025/01/07
shelves: audiobook, children, fantasy, ya-middle-grade, young-adult, books-read-in-2025
review:

]]> <![CDATA[A Court of Thorns and Roses (A Court of Thorns and Roses, #1)]]> 16096824
Dragged to a magical kingdom for the murder of a faerie, Feyre discovers that her captor, his face obscured by a jewelled mask, is hiding far more than his piercing green eyes would suggest. Feyre's presence at the court is closely guarded, and as she begins to learn why, her feelings for him turn from hostility to passion and the faerie lands become an even more dangerous place. Feyre must fight to break an ancient curse, or she will lose him forever.]]> 419 Sarah J. Maas 1619634449 Kaye 1 4.17 2015 A Court of Thorns and Roses (A Court of Thorns and Roses, #1)
author: Sarah J. Maas
name: Kaye
average rating: 4.17
book published: 2015
rating: 1
read at: 2021/06/16
date added: 2025/01/03
shelves: fantasy-romance, young-adult, did-not-finish
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Throw Out Fifty Things: Clear the Clutter, Find Your Life]]> 5892636
"If you want to grow, you gotta let go," is Blanke's mantra; and that means eliminating all the clutter-physical and emotional-that holds you back, weighs you down, or just makes you feel bad about yourself.

In THROW OUT FIFTY THINGS she takes us through each room of the house-from the attic to the garage-and even to the far reaches of our minds. Through poignant and humorous stories, she inspires us to get rid of the "life plaque" we've allowed to build-up there.




Once you've hit fifty-you'll be surprised how easy it is to get there-and once you've thrown out that too-tight belt and too-small view of yourself, you'll be ready to step out into the clearing and into the next, and greatest, segment of your life.]]> 270 Gail Blanke 044650579X Kaye 3 3.48 2009 Throw Out Fifty Things: Clear the Clutter, Find Your Life
author: Gail Blanke
name: Kaye
average rating: 3.48
book published: 2009
rating: 3
read at: 2022/01/23
date added: 2025/01/03
shelves: books-read-in-2022, audiobook, nonfiction-self-help
review:

]]> Paige's Turn 34054799
Paige discovers, though, that Mitzi’s last wishes include a lot of meddling in her love life. From the grave, and with the help of some friends, Mitzi has set out to make sure Paige and Bella Port’s most eligible bachelor, Sam Kennedy, find true love together. What Mitzi didn’t foresee is the firestorm and gossip she created that paints Paige as a swindler and liar, leaving Sam to wonder about the grown woman Paige has become. It doesn’t help when Paige fires him after their first meeting. But as friendship blossoms between Paige and Sam, they find each other hard to resist.

Was Mitzi right about the two of them? Will Paige finally have her turn?
]]> 206 Jennifer Peel Kaye 1 4.07 2017 Paige's Turn
author: Jennifer Peel
name: Kaye
average rating: 4.07
book published: 2017
rating: 1
read at: 2023/04/16
date added: 2025/01/03
shelves: did-not-finish, books-read-in-2023, contemporary-romance
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The 7 1/2 Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle]]> 36337550
There are eight days, and eight witnesses for you to inhabit.

We will only let you escape once you tell us the name of the killer.

Understood? Then let's begin . . .

Evelyn Hardcastle will die. Every day until Aiden Bishop can identify her killer and break the cycle. But every time the day begins again, Aiden wakes up in the body of a different guest. And some of his hosts are more helpful than others . . .

The most inventive debut of the year twists together a mystery of such unexpected creativity it will leave listeners guessing until the very last second.]]> 432 Stuart Turton Kaye 4 books-read-in-2024, fantasy 3.78 2018 The 7 1/2 Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle
author: Stuart Turton
name: Kaye
average rating: 3.78
book published: 2018
rating: 4
read at: 2024/12/09
date added: 2024/12/09
shelves: books-read-in-2024, fantasy
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Bright Winter Lights (Winter Nights #2)]]> 63901994
Billionaire businessman Adam Bosch decides to bring a date to the family Hanukkah party this year in hopes of getting a break from his mother’s matchmaking. Trouble is, his busy schedule hasn’t left much room for romance. Since he’s always remained cordial with his high school sweetheart Sara Schwartz, he gets back in touch and asks her to be his plus one. And if he’s being honest, it’s a good excuse to see her again…since he’s never quite forgotten her.

Sara’s a successful designer with a close circle of friends and a thriving business—so what if her love life is non-existent? When Adam resurfaces and asks her to pose as his date after all these years, she thinks it’s a ridiculous idea. But he’s charming, persuasive…and too cute to resist. Before long, they rediscover the spark that first brought them together. Will their holi-date turn into lasting love?

©2022 Liz Maverick, LLC (P)2022 Audible Originals, LLC]]> 4 Liz Maverick Kaye 5 3.51 Bright Winter Lights (Winter Nights #2)
author: Liz Maverick
name: Kaye
average rating: 3.51
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2024/12/09
date added: 2024/12/09
shelves: audiobook, books-read-in-2024, contemporary-romance
review:

]]> The Little House 153540 The Little House, a poignant story of a cute country cottage that becomes engulfed by the city that grows up around it. The house has an expressive face of windows and doors, and even the feelings of a person, so she’s sad when she’s surrounded by the dirty, noisy city’s hustle and bustle: “She missed the field of daisies / and the apple trees dancing in the moonlight.” Fortunately, there’s a happy ending, as the house is taken back to the country where she belongs.]]> 40 Virginia Lee Burton 0395181569 Kaye 5 4.29 1942 The Little House
author: Virginia Lee Burton
name: Kaye
average rating: 4.29
book published: 1942
rating: 5
read at: 2024/12/03
date added: 2024/12/05
shelves: books-read-in-2024, children, lifetime-favorites
review:

]]> The Story of Ferdinand 773951 72 Munro Leaf 0670674249 Kaye 5 4.36 1936 The Story of Ferdinand
author: Munro Leaf
name: Kaye
average rating: 4.36
book published: 1936
rating: 5
read at: 2024/12/02
date added: 2024/12/05
shelves: books-read-in-2024, children, lifetime-favorites
review:

]]> Corduroy 231850 Corduroy has been on the department store shelf for a long time...

Yet as soon as Lisa sees him, she knows that he's the bear she's always wanted. Her mother, though, thinks he's a little shopworn—he's even missing a button! Still, Corduroy knows that with a bit of work he can tidy himself up and be just the bear for Lisa. And where better to start than with a quick search through the department store for a new button!

Corduroy, with his unaffected simplicity and childlike emotion, is one of the best-loved bears in children's books. His story has become an irresistible childhood classic, as basic and appealing as a small bear's desire for a home and a friend and the perfect fulfillment found in the devotion of a young girl.

Don Freeman was born in San Diego, California, and moved to New York City to study art, making his living as a jazz trumpeter. With this loss of his trumpet on a subway train, Mr. Freeman turned his talents to art full-time. In the 1940s he began writing and illustrating children's books; his many popular titles include Beady Bear, Dandelion, Mop Top, Norman the Doorman, and his follow-up to Corduroy, A Pocket For Corduroy. At the time of his death in 1978, the Los Angeles Times wrote: "Ingeniousness and humor, theatricality and commonality, humanity and beauty: these elements survive in his picture books."

Edition MSRP: U.S. $16âąâą / CAN. $21â°â° (ISBN 978-0-670-24133-0)
Reinforced Binding. Age Group: 3-8.]]> 32 Don Freeman 0670241334 Kaye 5 4.33 1968 Corduroy
author: Don Freeman
name: Kaye
average rating: 4.33
book published: 1968
rating: 5
read at: 2024/12/02
date added: 2024/12/05
shelves: books-read-in-2024, children, lifetime-favorites
review:

]]> And Tango Makes Three 117997 In the zoo there are all kinds of animal families. But Tango's family is not like any of the others.

This illustrated children's book fictionalizes the true story of two male penguins who became partners and raised a penguin chick in the Central Park Zoo.

At the penguin house at the Central Park Zoo, two penguins named Roy and Silo were a little bit different from the others. But their desire for a family was the same. And with the help of a kindly zookeeper, Roy and Silo got the chance to welcome a baby penguin of their very own!

Justin Richardson, M.D. is the co-author of 'Everything You Never Wanted Your Kids to Know About Sex (But Were Afraid They'd Ask)' (2003). His advice to parents has been featured in the New York Times and on Today, 20/20, and NPR's Morning edition.

Peter Parnell is a playwright whose most recent play, 'QED', was produced on Broadway. He was a co-producer of the television show 'The West Wing'.

Henry Cole is an extremely versatile artist who has illustrated numerous picture books, including 'The Sissy Duckling' (2002) by Harvey Fierstein.

Edition MSRP: $16âąâą US / $19âąâą CAN (ISBN 0-689-87845-1)
Ages 4-8
Manufactured in China]]> 32 Justin Richardson 0689878451 Kaye 5 books-read-in-2024, children 4.34 2005 And Tango Makes Three
author: Justin Richardson
name: Kaye
average rating: 4.34
book published: 2005
rating: 5
read at: 2024/12/02
date added: 2024/12/02
shelves: books-read-in-2024, children
review:

]]> Mansfield Park 45032 488 Jane Austen Kaye 4 3.86 1814 Mansfield Park
author: Jane Austen
name: Kaye
average rating: 3.86
book published: 1814
rating: 4
read at: 2021/05/10
date added: 2024/11/27
shelves: books-read-in-2021, audiobook, annual-austen
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Never Been Witched (Starfall Point, #3)]]> 219994788 Listening Length: 10 hours and 17 minutes

Bursting with laughter, romance, and magic, the Audible and USA Today best-selling Starfall Point trilogy comes to an epic finale that will leave you enchanted!

Alice Seastairs leads a quiet life working in her grandparents’ antique shop and hiding her magical secret from the human world. As one of Starfall Point’s resident witches, it’s her job to protect the Island from dark magic and unruly ghosts—including the ones that show up at her shop attached to antiques. But her orderly life is turned upside down when a gorgeous stranger buys the islands most historic—and haunted—hotel.

There’s something about Collin Bancroft that that makes Alice want to muss his polished exterior and find out what’s underneath his expensive suit. But romance will have to wait, because his hotel is being haunted by a ghost so dangerous that Alice’s whole coven must step in. Turns out, a supernatural event is unfolding that’s bigger than any of them ever imagined—and it’s about to blow the secrets of Shaddow House wide open. Will Alice and Collin survive long enough to have a future together?]]> 321 Molly Harper Kaye 5 3.96 2024 Never Been Witched (Starfall Point, #3)
author: Molly Harper
name: Kaye
average rating: 3.96
book published: 2024
rating: 5
read at: 2024/11/15
date added: 2024/11/23
shelves: audiobook, books-read-in-2024, contemporary-romance, paranormal-romance
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Come As You Are (Bluebird Basin, #1)]]> 61615903 He’ll win her heart one mixtape at a time.

46-year-old Ashley Cooke will do just about anything to save her struggling ski hill. When she hires the men from a local sober living home for the season to cut costs, even she thinks she’s gone too far. With her credit cards maxed, her cheating ex-husband intent on buying the mountain out from under her, and record-breaking snow in the forecast, she can’t afford to be distracted by the six-foot-tall bearded and tattooed sober living home owner moving onto her mountain.

53-year-old recovering addict and ex-grunge rocker Matthew Madigan has devoted every minute of the last decade to the men residing at his sober living home. When he meets tightly wound and adorably flustered Ashley, desires he’s put on the back burner for years start to simmer. Immune to his infamous albeit rusty charm, Ashley presents a challenge he can’t resist. When she offers to give him skiing lessons in exchange for his help training her St. Bernard rescue dog, he jumps at the chance to ride next to her on the chairlift despite his debilitating fear of heights.

During bunny hill shenanigans, chairlift confessions, and steamy cabin serenades, Madigan teaches Ashley that a person’s past doesn’t define them, and Ashley shows Madigan that the men he helps aren’t the only people who deserve a second chance. When sabotage threatens both the men and the mountain, Ashley and Madigan will have to decide if they’re only having a winter fling, or if the mountain isn’t the only thing worth fighting for.

Content Notes: Addiction, divorce, mourning loss of parent]]> 318 Jess K. Hardy Kaye 3 4.09 2021 Come As You Are (Bluebird Basin, #1)
author: Jess K. Hardy
name: Kaye
average rating: 4.09
book published: 2021
rating: 3
read at: 2024/10/30
date added: 2024/10/30
shelves: books-read-in-2024, contemporary-romance
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Someone to Care (Westcott, #4)]]> 35927208 Once the Countess of Riverdale, Viola Kingsley throws all caution to the wind when adventure calls in the form of a handsome aristocrat...

Two years after the death of the Earl of Riverdale, his family has overcome the shame of being stripped of their titles and fortune—except for his onetime countess, Viola. With her children grown and herself no longer part of the social whirl of the ton, she is uncertain where to look for happiness—until quite by accident her path crosses once again with that of the Marquess of Dorchester, Marcel Lamarr.

Marcel Lamarr has been a notorious womanizer since the death of his wife nearly twenty years earlier. Viola caught his eye when she herself was a young mother, but she evaded his seduction at the time. A prize that eluded him before, she is all the more irresistible to him now although he is surprised to discover that she is as eager now for the excitement he offers as he is himself.

When the two defy convention and run away together, they discover that the ties of respectability are not so easily severed, and pleasure can ensnare you when you least expect it.]]> 356 Mary Balogh 0399586083 Kaye 3 3.78 2018 Someone to Care (Westcott, #4)
author: Mary Balogh
name: Kaye
average rating: 3.78
book published: 2018
rating: 3
read at: 2024/10/30
date added: 2024/10/30
shelves: hist-19th-c-1800-1820s, historical-romance, audiobook, books-read-in-2024
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Companion to the Count (Seductive Sleuths, #1)]]> 131107507
Saffron Summersby lost everything after her brother’s suspicious death: her dresses, her dowry, her place in society as a baronet’s sister. So when she sees her brother’s face in the latest painting from famous anonymous artist Ravenmore and realizes he might still be alive, she comes up with a plan: learn the identity of the painter, find her brother, and save her sister from marrying a brute in order to avoid financial ruin. She doesn’t expect her investigation to lead her into the den of a notorious rake.

After the death of his sister, Leopold “Leo” Mayweather, Viscount Briarwood, gave up his wild ways and devoted his life to art, particularly the distribution of paintings by the reclusive Ravenmore. So when he discovers someone is stealing the paintings and replacing them with forgeries, he decides to host an art auction to draw out the thief. He doesn’t expect a beautiful woman to storm into his life, determined to unmask Ravenmore.

Fearing Saffron will disrupt his plans, Leo nonetheless agrees to introduce her to Ravenmore in exchange for her help arranging the auction and quietly investigating everyone with interest in the final Ravenmore painting for sale. But as the guests arrive and passion sparks between the viscount and the impoverished lady, the two would-be lovers must navigate a series of suspicious accidents to uncover the truth before someone else they care about becomes the victim of dangerous sabotage.]]> Melissa Kendall Kaye 0 4.33 Companion to the Count (Seductive Sleuths, #1)
author: Melissa Kendall
name: Kaye
average rating: 4.33
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/10/24
shelves: to-read, hist-19th-c-1830s-1899, historical-romance
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Star-Spangled Jesus: Leaving Christian Nationalism and Finding A True Faith]]> 207567811 A hilarious and eye-opening account of leaving Christian Nationalism behind to follow Jesus better. Ěý April Ajoy wouldn’t have called herself a Christian Nationalist when she performed her original song “America Say Jesus” on the Jim Bakker show, or when she participated in Jesus Marches across America, or when she posted cringe-worthy videos on YouTube to campaign for Mitt Romney. April just considered herself a good faithful, Republican, and determined to make America a Christian nation once again. Ěý But as her view of the world widened, Ajoy began to see cracks in her steadfast beliefs and recognized the ways her conservative politics and religion were intertwined in her mind. Did God really bless America? Is it actually by His red, white, and blue stripes that we are healed? Ěý Ajoy, TikTok influencer and co-host of the Evangelicalish podcast, shares funny stories from her time deep within Christian nationalism, exploring how aspects of evangelical culture such as purity pledges, product boycotts, Satanic panic, and end-times theology have all been exploited to advance the Christian Nationalist narrative. She also illuminates the ways nationalist thinking has infiltrated our churches and political arenas, shaping not only modern evangelical culture but also American public policy and international relations. Part memoir, part guidebook, part call to action, Star-Spangled Jesus explores how the fight to make America a “Christian nation” has damaged us all and shows how one woman left Christian Nationalism and why America should too.Ěý]]> 272 April Ajoy 1546006680 Kaye 5 4.52 2024 Star-Spangled Jesus: Leaving Christian Nationalism and Finding A True Faith
author: April Ajoy
name: Kaye
average rating: 4.52
book published: 2024
rating: 5
read at: 2024/10/21
date added: 2024/10/21
shelves: audiobook, books-read-in-2024, nonfiction-political-science, nonfiction-religion
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Secret Keeper: A Novel of Katherine Parr (Ladies in Waiting, #2)]]> 89542664
Sir Thomas Seymour offers Juliana St. John a place in the household of Katherine Parr, a welcome reprieve. Juliana blossoms under Kate's maternal warmth, but all is not well. Juliana has the gift of prophetic dreams and "sees" terrible events visited upon the highborn. If her prophetic gift is discovered, she will be accused of heresy or, worse, witchcraft.

Katherine Parr is a beautiful, intelligent woman whose generosity is surpassed only by her kindness. Unsurprisingly, she attracts the attention of King Henry VIII, who recently dispatched his fifth wife. Unfortunately, being Henry's beloved carries no small risk for Kate and her household, especially after she becomes his queen. As a member of the queen's inner circle, Juliana bears witness to a barrage of plots within the increasingly treacherous court—many intended to remove Kate's influence and, perhaps, her life.

As Henry's illness progresses toward death, those seeking to claim his power descend on the queen. Meanwhile, Thomas Seymour is revealed to be both more and immeasurably less than the kindhearted benefactor Juliana once thought him to be. As the queen's trusted confidante, Juliana is a well-practiced secret keeper. But when unforeseen violence upends her future, the most heart-wrenching secret she keeps is her own.

Threading historical fact through gripping fiction, Byrd creates a rich tapestry of one young woman's battle to protect those she loves from harm.

~~~

A discussion of potentially sensitive content may be found on the author’s webpage for this book for those who would like to preview it before reading.]]> 340 Sandra Byrd Kaye 0 sounds-interesting 4.39 2012 The Secret Keeper: A Novel of Katherine Parr (Ladies in Waiting, #2)
author: Sandra Byrd
name: Kaye
average rating: 4.39
book published: 2012
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/10/21
shelves: sounds-interesting
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Between (The Chronicles of Between, #1)]]> 55557417 Sasha Pierce hasn’t had a single dream since she was a child…

... until she accepts a substitute teaching position in the charmingly witchy village of Old Middleton. Her first dream in twenty-five years ought to be enchanting, but her wonder quickly turns to shock when she realizes that it’s not a dream at all, but an entirely different sort of magic. Catapulted into the fairy tale kingdom of Between through an ancient portal, Sasha’s astonishment is swiftly upgraded to panic when she accidentally performs a supposedly impossible feat and is declared the True Queen of Between … and betrothed to its infuriatingly handsome sorcerer-king.

Lorn, Shadow King of Between, is desperate to break free from Between’s clutches. Magically tethered to the ramshackle kingdom, he wages a daily battle to save his disreputable subjects from rampaging magical creatures, sinkholes, and catastrophes of the distressingly lethal variety. To avoid an early grave, he needs an escape plan, not a wife...until he learns that this magicless mortal holds the key to his freedom.

Unwilling to leave her world to accept the crown—or the husband—Sasha must race against the clock to disentangle herself from this fairy tale. But her empty throne leaves a dangerous rift between their worlds. As dark forces descend upon Old Middleton, the two must make a choice: work together or unleash fairytale chaos upon their realms.

Between is the spellbinding first novel in The Chronicles of Between fantasy series. Filled with feisty, fairytale-savvy heroines, swoon-worthy sorcerers, slow burn romance, morose minotaurs, and bawdy witches it’s a laugh-out-loud fairy tale romp.]]> 1018 L.L. Starling 1733244832 Kaye 0 4.31 Between (The Chronicles of Between, #1)
author: L.L. Starling
name: Kaye
average rating: 4.31
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/10/20
shelves: to-read, fantasy, fantasy-romance
review:

]]> <![CDATA[When the Moon Hatched (Moonfall, #1)]]> 202507554 moons.

They certainly did not expect them to fall.

As a valued Elding Blade of the rebellion group Fíur du Ath, Raeve’s job is to kill. To complete orders and never get caught. When a renowned bounty hunter is employed by The Crown to capture a member of the Ath, Raeve’s world is turned upside down. Blood spills, hearts break, and Raeve finds herself at the mercy of the Guild of Nobles—a group of dual-beaded elementals who intend to turn her into a political statement. Only death will set her free.

Crushed beneath a mourning weight, Kaan Vaegor took the head of a king and donned his melted crown. Now on a tireless quest to assuage the never-ebbing ache in his chest, his hunt for a moonshard lures him into the belly of Gore’s notorious prison where he stumbles upon something that rips apart his perception of reality. A shackled miracle with eyes full of rage and blood on her hands.

The echo of the past sings louder than the Creators themselves, and even Raeve can’t ignore the truths blaring at her from a warmer, happier time.
However.
There’s more to this song than meets the eye, and some truths …
They’re too poisonous to swallow.

When the Moon Hatched is a fast-paced fantasy romance for fans of witty banter and strong, sassy protagonists. Beneath the cover is an immersive, vibrant world with mysterious creatures, a unique magic system, and a love that blazes through the ages. ]]> 718 Sarah A. Parker Kaye 0 3.98 2024 When the Moon Hatched (Moonfall, #1)
author: Sarah A. Parker
name: Kaye
average rating: 3.98
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/10/20
shelves: to-read, fantasy, fantasy-romance
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Whispering Night (Ancient Kings of Anglecynn, #1; The Executioner Knights, #8)]]> 39689623 1197 A.D.

Sir Garren le Mon is an agent for Richard the Lion Heart in the political war against his brother, John. Under the command of William Marshall, Chancellor of England, Garren is the king's most trusted and loyal servant.

When Garren is ordered to marry into a family deeply loyal to Prince John, the knight is understandably reluctant; the House of de Rosa is infamous for its bloodlust and bizarre characters. Upon meeting the Lady Derica de Rosa, however, Garren thinks perhaps that the marriage may not be all that unpalatable.

Derica is beautiful and humorous, and Garren is smitten. Upon the eve of the betrothal, however, Garren's identity as a spy is discovered and he is set upon by the de Rosa's. With Derica's help, he escapes execution and together the two of them begin an enormous trek across England and Wales to flee her pursuing family. When William Marshall discovers that Garren has deviated from his orders, he too goes in pursuit of him, undermining Garren's trust with a friend he has known since childhood.

Duty soon separates them and Garren stages his own death in battle in order to free himself of William Marshall's directives. But news of his death gets back to Derica, who finds herself a pawn between her family and William Marshall as she grieves for the man she loved and now has lost. It is a race against time for Garren to return to his wife before she is forced to marry another, all in the name of politics.

]]> 247 Kathryn Le Veque Kaye 0 4.67 2003 The Whispering Night (Ancient Kings of Anglecynn, #1; The Executioner Knights, #8)
author: Kathryn Le Veque
name: Kaye
average rating: 4.67
book published: 2003
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/10/20
shelves: sounds-interesting, hist-10th-15th-centuries, historical-romance
review:

]]> The Book Club on Waverly Lane 60121634
After moving to the outskirts of Charleston, South Carolina, Shelby Anderson decides to form a book club to get to know her neighbors and build a new life after her old one imploded.

Little does she know that the women who show up with homemade cookies and perfectly manicured nails have a whole host of secrets of their own.

Will her new book club lead to lifelong friendships or put her in the middle of drama she doesn't want or need?

If you love funny, Southern women's fiction with maybe a hint of romance thrown in for good measure, you'll adore The Book Club On Waverly Lane!]]> 178 Rachel Hanna Kaye 4 3.89 2022 The Book Club on Waverly Lane
author: Rachel Hanna
name: Kaye
average rating: 3.89
book published: 2022
rating: 4
read at: 2024/07/06
date added: 2024/10/20
shelves: books-read-in-2024, contemporary-romance, women-s-fiction, audiobook
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Trixie and Katya's Guide to Modern Womanhood]]> 52180973 Trixie and Katya's Guide to Modern Womanhood, the pair channel that energy into an old-school etiquette guide for ladies.

In essays, conversations, and how-to sections peppered with hilarious, gorgeous photos, Trixie and Katya will advise readers on beauty and fashion and tackle other vital components of a happy home, such as money, self-love, and friendship; sharing advice and personal stories in high-concept fashion.]]> 208 Trixie Mattel 0593086708 Kaye 4 4.02 2020 Trixie and Katya's Guide to Modern Womanhood
author: Trixie Mattel
name: Kaye
average rating: 4.02
book published: 2020
rating: 4
read at: 2024/03/18
date added: 2024/10/20
shelves: books-read-in-2024, nonfiction-humor, audiobook
review:

]]> Bloodline 27307047 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER •ĚýFrom theĚýauthor of Star Lost Stars comes a thrilling novel set in the years before the events of Star The Force Awakens.“Unmissable . . . Bloodline’s tense politics, vivid new characters, and perfectly characterized Leia make it feel as central to the Star Wars universe as one of the films.”—T´Ç°ů»ĺ´ÇłŮł¦´ÇłľWITNESS THE BIRTH OF THE RESISTANCE Ěý When the Rebellion defeated the Empire in the skies above Endor, Leia Organa believed it was the beginning to a lasting peace. But after decades of vicious infighting and partisan gridlock in the New Republic Senate, that hope seems like a distant memory. Ěý Now a respected senator, Leia must grapple with the dangers that threaten to cripple the fledgling democracy—from both within and without. Underworld kingpins, treacherous politicians, and Imperial loyalists are sowing chaos in the galaxy. Desperate to take action, senators are calling for the election of a First Senator. It is their hope that this influential post will bring strong leadership to a divided galaxy. Ěý As the daughter of Darth Vader, Leia faces with distrust the prospect of any one person holding such a powerful position—even when supporters suggest Leia herself for the job. But a new enemy may make this path Leia’s only option. For at the edges of the galaxy, a mysterious threat is growing. . . .Praise for Bloodline Ěý “[Claudia] Gray paints a much more complete galaxy than we often get to see on the big screen. . . . Knowing that Rian Johnson (writer, director of Star Episode VIII)Ěýhad some creative input on the novel provides hope that we haven’t seen the last of all of these wonderful characters. . . . Star Bloodline isn’t just a greatĚýStar Wars book, or a great LeiaĚýbook, or a great book; it’s a great introduction into the larger world ofĚýStar Wars in general.”—C´Çłľľ±ł¦µţ´Ç´Ç°ě»ĺ´ÇłŮł¦´Çłľ Ěý “Bloodline is a nonstop page-turner that grabs at heartstrings that you weren’t aware of and yanks down on every one of them. The story is loaded with context for The Force Awakens that plants the seeds for The First Order in perfectly haunting ways, and leaves the reader grasping for more details on newly discovered favorite characters.”—I˛Ô±ą±đ°ů˛ő±đ]]> 334 Claudia Gray 1101885254 Kaye 5 4.11 2016 Bloodline
author: Claudia Gray
name: Kaye
average rating: 4.11
book published: 2016
rating: 5
read at: 2024/01/19
date added: 2024/10/20
shelves: books-read-in-2024, books-read-in-2016, star-wars-trek, audiobook
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Lieutenant Hornblower (Hornblower Saga: Chronological Order, #2)]]> 77040 320 C.S. Forester 0316290637 Kaye 5 4.29 1952 Lieutenant Hornblower (Hornblower Saga: Chronological Order, #2)
author: C.S. Forester
name: Kaye
average rating: 4.29
book published: 1952
rating: 5
read at: 2023/12/28
date added: 2024/10/19
shelves: books-read-in-2023, audiobook, hist-18th-century, hist-19th-c-1800-1820s, historical-fiction, story-research
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Secret History of Christmas]]> 63107517
Christmas is the single biggest annual event on the planet, a time for merry-making, over-indulgence, peace, goodwill, and the occasional family row. It’s as comfortable and familiar as a pair of old shoes and yet still glittery and exciting. But what do you really know about it? It’s stuffed full of traditions and rituals that most of us have been observing all our lives without having the slightest idea of where they come from.

Why is it called Boxing Day, for example? Why do we sing about Good King Wenceslas – who wasn’t a king and possibly not even good? What’s the story behind Christmas crackers? Who would have guessed that one of our most popular Christmas carols began as a kind of semi-pornographic Welsh folksong? And how did St Nicholas, a bishop from the dawn of Christianity, turn into the plump and jolly figure of Santa Claus with a flying sleigh and a home at the North Pole?

Christmas, and how it got that way, is full of surprises. Join Bill Bryson to reach into this Christmas stocking and pull them out – along with the inevitable tangerine.]]> 4 Bill Bryson Kaye 4 3.83 2022 The Secret History of Christmas
author: Bill Bryson
name: Kaye
average rating: 3.83
book published: 2022
rating: 4
read at: 2023/12/02
date added: 2024/10/19
shelves: audiobook, books-read-in-2023, hist-00-ancient-biblical, hist-04th-09th-centuries, hist-10th-15th-centuries, hist-16th-17th-centuries, hist-18th-century, hist-19th-c-1800-1820s, hist-19th-c-1830s-1899, hist-20th-century, nonfiction-american-history, nonfiction-british-history, nonfiction-general-history, nonfiction-memoir
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Two Parts Sugar, One Part Murder (Baker Street Mystery, #1)]]> 59769895 In a brand-new culinary cozy series with a fresh edge and a delightful small-town setting, the acclaimed author introduces Maddy Montgomery, a social media expert who’s #StartingOver in small town Michigan after inheriting her great-aunt’s bakery…and a 200-pound English Mastiff named Baby.

When Maddy Montgomery’s groom is a no-show to their livestream wedding, it’s a disaster that no amount of filtering can fix. But a surprise inheritance offers a chance to regroup and rebrand—as long as Maddy is willing to live in her late, great Aunt Octavia’s house in New Bison, Michigan, for a year, running her bakery and caring for a 200-pound English Mastiff named Baby.
Maddy doesn’t bake, and her Louboutins aren’t made for walking giant dogs around Lake Michigan, but the locals are friendly and the scenery is beautiful. With help from her aunt’s loyal friends, aka The Baker Street Irregulars, Maddy feels ready to tackle any challenge, including Octavia’s award-winning cake recipes. That is, until New Bison’s mayor is fatally stabbed, and Maddy’s fingerprints are found on the knife . . .

Something strange is going on in New Bison. It seems Aunt Octavia had her suspicions too. But Maddy’s going to need a whole lot more than a trending hashtag to save her reputation—and her life.]]> 266 Valerie Burns 1496738225 Kaye 5 3.55 2022 Two Parts Sugar, One Part Murder (Baker Street Mystery, #1)
author: Valerie Burns
name: Kaye
average rating: 3.55
book published: 2022
rating: 5
read at: 2023/09/08
date added: 2024/10/19
shelves: books-read-in-2023, contemporary-fiction, mystery, audiobook
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Astrophysics for People in a Hurry]]> 32191710
But today, few of us have time to contemplate the cosmos. So Tyson brings the universe down to Earth succinctly and clearly, with sparkling wit, in tasty chapters consumable anytime and anywhere in your busy day.]]> 223 Neil deGrasse Tyson 0393609391 Kaye 4 4.07 2017 Astrophysics for People in a Hurry
author: Neil deGrasse Tyson
name: Kaye
average rating: 4.07
book published: 2017
rating: 4
read at: 2023/12/31
date added: 2024/10/19
shelves: audiobook, books-read-in-2023, nonfiction-science
review:

]]> Sleigh Bell Sweethearts 19047118 Now a Hallmark Channel Original Movie - Northern Lights of ChristmasSecond Chance Yuletide ĚýOwning her own plane is all charter pilot Zoey Hathaway's ever dreamed of. So when she inherits a struggling reindeer farm, with three dozen unruly reindeer and one dangerously attractive ranch hand, Zoey's well-crafted plans seem to fly out the window. Now she must put her trust in Alec Wynn, and hope that the troubled cowboy's past won't interfere with her plans to save the farm. Zoey knows that if she wants to succeed, she can't do everything on her own. But as she accepts Alec's help, she'll soon realize it's not just her farm that's at stake-but her heart.]]> 219 Teri Wilson 1460321901 Kaye 4
Cute, clean story, not too heavy on the religious elements. However, I did find myself skimming the long paragraphs of introspection since both of the main characters spent most of their time alone in the story. However, even when they were with other characters, there were issues with the introspection---for example, in a conversation, one of the secondary characters would say something that would initiate about three paragraphs (or more) of introspection before the main character would respond.

However, it was a light, lighthearted read and perfect to get into the holiday spirit!]]> 4.07 2013 Sleigh Bell Sweethearts
author: Teri Wilson
name: Kaye
average rating: 4.07
book published: 2013
rating: 4
read at: 2015/11/16
date added: 2024/09/28
shelves: books-read-in-2015, contemporary-romance, inspirational-fiction
review:
3.75 stars

Cute, clean story, not too heavy on the religious elements. However, I did find myself skimming the long paragraphs of introspection since both of the main characters spent most of their time alone in the story. However, even when they were with other characters, there were issues with the introspection---for example, in a conversation, one of the secondary characters would say something that would initiate about three paragraphs (or more) of introspection before the main character would respond.

However, it was a light, lighthearted read and perfect to get into the holiday spirit!
]]> <![CDATA[Daindreth's Assassin (Daindreth's Assassin #1)]]> 58151545 Born to be a sorceress. Cursed to be an assassin. Chosen to be his empress.

Magic has two immutable rules—every spell requires a sacrifice and every curse can be broken.

Amira Brindonu is a sorceress turned assassin, bound in a curse that forces her to obey her father, even to the point of high treason. When he orders her to kill the future emperor, she fails, but discovers a secret that could bring the whole of the empire to its knees.

The archduke is stricken by a curse that could sentence him and his people to damnation, but Amira could be the only key to breaking it. In a desperate last-ditch effort, the archduke takes Amira prisoner and makes a pact to protect her from her curse if she will help free him of his own.

As time begins to run out, Amira soon learns that there are enemies that blades can’t touch and there are fates worse than death. Caught in a web of sorcery, intrigue, and her growing feelings for the archduke, the assassin must decide just how much she is willing to give to save the only man she’s ever loved.

Every curse can be broken, but can two cursed people save each other?

A fresh Fantasy Romance series that is sure to delight fans of Sarah J. Maas, Kristin Cashore, and Leigh Bardugo.]]> 283 Elisabeth Wheatley Kaye 4 books-read-in-2024, fantasy 4.26 2021 Daindreth's Assassin (Daindreth's Assassin #1)
author: Elisabeth Wheatley
name: Kaye
average rating: 4.26
book published: 2021
rating: 4
read at: 2024/09/28
date added: 2024/09/28
shelves: books-read-in-2024, fantasy
review:

]]> Secrets of Valhalla 25439526 "Readers will clamor for more, especially those who loved Rick Riordan’s Norse-themed The Sword of Summer.” --ALA Booklist

Two friends awaken a world of myth and magic in thisĚýepic middle grade fantasy perfect for fans of Rick Riordan and Anne Ursu.

It’s not every day that you find a famous weatherwoman bound by magic to a tree deep in the woods. Or discover that the weatherwoman is in fact Sunna, the Norse Goddess of the Sun, and one of the seven day guardians who keep time in order. But that’s just what happens to new friends Buzz and Mary—and it’s only the start of their adventure.

Now, as the people of Earth are forced to repeat the same Saturday over and over again, Buzz and Mary must journey to collect the Runes of Valhalla and awaken the other day guardians, before vengeful god Loki can get to them first.]]> 339 Jasmine Richards 0062239112 Kaye 0 3.93 2016 Secrets of Valhalla
author: Jasmine Richards
name: Kaye
average rating: 3.93
book published: 2016
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/09/28
shelves: sounds-interesting, fantasy, paranormal, young-adult
review:

]]> <![CDATA[False Start (Assignment: Romance, #1)]]> 23437971
Assignment: Romance novels:
False Start
Help Wanted
Key Change
The Plate Spinner Chronicles (non-fiction collection)
Flight Risk


What critics are saying about Barbara Valentin's books:

"A lighthearted and endearing blend of comedy, drama, and romance. Quick-moving and thoroughly delightful."
—Publishers Weekly, Starred Review

"Barbara Valentin delivers love, laughter, and a happily ever after—what more could you ask for?"
—Gemma Halliday, New York Times bestselling author

"False Start was such a wonderful romantic comedy and even though there isn't an ounce of steam in it. I completely loved it! 5 stars!"
—Boundless Book reviews

"I had a hard time putting (Help Wanted) down. That’s probably why I had no trouble reading it in two days! I’ll also stubbornly admit that I got a little teary-eyed towards the end, and I absolutely loved the ending. It was the perfect finish and one of my favorite endings, hands down."
—Chick Lit Central
]]> 217 Barbara Valentin 1940371449 Kaye 1
Merged review:

Typos and grammatical errors aside, I really didn't like the negative way the heroine was portrayed. It's not just that she was someone with a negative self-image, it's that the author seemed to have a very negative image of her which came across through the writing.]]> 3.84 2014 False Start (Assignment: Romance, #1)
author: Barbara Valentin
name: Kaye
average rating: 3.84
book published: 2014
rating: 1
read at: 2016/08/17
date added: 2024/09/25
shelves: books-read-in-2016, contemporary-romance, did-not-finish
review:
Typos and grammatical errors aside, I really didn't like the negative way the heroine was portrayed. It's not just that she was someone with a negative self-image, it's that the author seemed to have a very negative image of her which came across through the writing.

Merged review:

Typos and grammatical errors aside, I really didn't like the negative way the heroine was portrayed. It's not just that she was someone with a negative self-image, it's that the author seemed to have a very negative image of her which came across through the writing.
]]> Someone to Wed (Westcott #3) 34318337 A very practical marriage makes Alexander Westcott question his heart in the latest Regency romance from the New York Times bestselling author of Someone to Hold.

When Alexander Westcott becomes the new Earl of Riverdale, he inherits a title he never wanted and a failing country estate he can’t afford. But he fully intends to do everything in his power to undo years of neglect and give the people who depend on him a better life. . . .

A recluse for more than twenty years, Wren Heyden wants one thing out of life: marriage. With her vast fortune, she sets her sights on buying a husband. But when she makes the desperate—and oh-so-dashing—earl a startlingly unexpected proposal, Alex will only agree to a proper courtship, hoping for at least friendship and respect to develop between them. He is totally unprepared for the desire that overwhelms him when Wren finally lifts the veils that hide the secrets of her past. . . .]]> 361 Mary Balogh 0399586067 Kaye 4 3.90 2017 Someone to Wed (Westcott #3)
author: Mary Balogh
name: Kaye
average rating: 3.90
book published: 2017
rating: 4
read at: 2024/09/16
date added: 2024/09/18
shelves: audiobook, books-read-in-2024, hist-19th-c-1800-1820s, historical-romance
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Not-So-Intelligent Designer: Why Evolution Explains the Human Body and Intelligent Design Does Not]]> 28936532 246 Abby Hafer 1498273602 Kaye 4 4.07 2015 The Not-So-Intelligent Designer: Why Evolution Explains the Human Body and Intelligent Design Does Not
author: Abby Hafer
name: Kaye
average rating: 4.07
book published: 2015
rating: 4
read at: 2024/09/15
date added: 2024/09/18
shelves: audiobook, books-read-in-2024, nonfiction-american-history, nonfiction-political-science, nonfiction-religion, nonfiction-science
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Captain's Kidnapped Beauty (The Piccadilly Gentlemen's Club, #5)]]> 19804906
Rescue from an unlikely source!

Abducted and taken aboard a merchant ship bound for India, Charlotte Gilpin desperately searches for ways to escape. The heiress certainly doesn't expect rescue from the most unlikely of sources—Captain Alexander Carstairs, a man with whom she has crossed swords in the past.

Alex isn't sure what to make of Charlotte's claim to have been kidnapped—he wouldn't put it past this spirited woman to have cooked up the whole thing to avoid her father's matchmaking. But in the confines of the ship this confirmed bachelor unexpectedly finds Charlotte getting under his skin...again!

]]> 368 Mary Nichols 1459244990 Kaye 1
I'd set this one aside so that I could finish reading Highland Surrender (which was started on audio, but the narrator was atrocious, so I gave up and checked it out from the library to read instead). When I finished HS and it was time to go back to this one (after renewing the checkout on this one for an additional three weeks), I just couldn't bring myself to open it up again. So this one goes on the DNF list and I'm moving on to something else.

Aside from the author's penchant for antiquated language, I was very turned off in the beginning of the book by the first chapter, which name-drops at least a dozen characters I don't know or care anything about. (Once again, I managed to pick up a book that's part of a series without realizing it.) The story of this book actually starts in the second chapter. And while it seemed interesting, shortly after the hero and heroine meet, he goes off to the country and she gets kidnapped. I have no reason at this point to care for either of them or to be concerned that they're now separated.

He, being our hero, of course goes after her. And that's where the story really lost me. The setup is so implausible that I just couldn't bring myself to go to the extreme effort that suspending disbelief was going to take for me to get back into the story.

So I gave up on it at the 39% mark.]]> 3.12 2012 The Captain's Kidnapped Beauty (The Piccadilly Gentlemen's Club, #5)
author: Mary Nichols
name: Kaye
average rating: 3.12
book published: 2012
rating: 1
read at: 2014/09/20
date added: 2024/09/18
shelves: books-read-in-2014, hist-18th-century, historical-romance, did-not-finish
review:
DNF.

I'd set this one aside so that I could finish reading Highland Surrender (which was started on audio, but the narrator was atrocious, so I gave up and checked it out from the library to read instead). When I finished HS and it was time to go back to this one (after renewing the checkout on this one for an additional three weeks), I just couldn't bring myself to open it up again. So this one goes on the DNF list and I'm moving on to something else.

Aside from the author's penchant for antiquated language, I was very turned off in the beginning of the book by the first chapter, which name-drops at least a dozen characters I don't know or care anything about. (Once again, I managed to pick up a book that's part of a series without realizing it.) The story of this book actually starts in the second chapter. And while it seemed interesting, shortly after the hero and heroine meet, he goes off to the country and she gets kidnapped. I have no reason at this point to care for either of them or to be concerned that they're now separated.

He, being our hero, of course goes after her. And that's where the story really lost me. The setup is so implausible that I just couldn't bring myself to go to the extreme effort that suspending disbelief was going to take for me to get back into the story.

So I gave up on it at the 39% mark.
]]> Mansfield Park 6617833 read by Frances Barber
running time approx. 983 min.


from wikipedia.org:
The main character, Fanny Price, is a young girl from a poor family, raised by her rich uncle and aunt, Sir Thomas and Lady Bertram, at Mansfield Park. She grows up with her four cousins, Tom Bertram, Edmund Bertram, Maria Bertram and Julia, but is always treated as inferior to them; only Edmund shows her real kindness. He is also the most virtuous of the siblings: Maria and Julia are vain and spoiled, while Tom is an irresponsible gambler. Over time, Fanny's gratitude for Edmund's kindness secretly grows into romantic love.

When the children have grown up, the stern patriarch Sir Thomas leaves for two years so he can deal with problems on his plantation in Antigua. Henry Crawford and his sister Mary Crawford arrive in the village, which begins a series of romantic entanglements. Mary and Edmund begin to form an attachment, though Edmund often worries that, although her manners are fashionable, they hide a lack of firm principle. However, she is engaging and charming, and goes out of her way to befriend Fanny. Fanny fears that Mary has enchanted Edmund, and love has blinded him to her flaws. Henry plays with the affections of Maria Bertram and Julia, despite Maria being already engaged to the dull, but very rich, Mr. Rushworth. Because Fanny is so little observed in the family circle, her presence is often overlooked and Fanny sees Maria and Henry in compromising situations several times.

Encouraged by Tom and his friend Mr. Yates, the young people decide to put on Elizabeth Inchbald's play Lovers' Vows; Edmund and Fanny oppose the plan, believing Sir Thomas will disapprove, but Edmund is eventually drawn into it, offering to play the part of Anhalt, who is the lover of the character played by Mary Crawford.]]> 15 Jane Austen 1405683031 Kaye 4 3.56 1814 Mansfield Park
author: Jane Austen
name: Kaye
average rating: 3.56
book published: 1814
rating: 4
read at: 2024/04/06
date added: 2024/08/20
shelves: audiobook, books-read-in-2015, classic-british-lit, hist-19th-c-1800-1820s, historical-romance, lifetime-favorites, annual-austen, books-read-in-2017, books-read-in-2024
review:
This was my Annual Austen pick for 2015. It's probably been at least six or seven years since the last time I read it. But this time around, for the first time, it actually inspired me with a new story idea---set in the same Portsmouth world of my first two Ransome novels.
]]> Three Weddings and a Murder 14288458
The pleasure of your company is requested...
...at the most thrilling, sexy event of the year.

THREE WEDDINGS AND A MURDER

Four delicious, dangerous tales of love...

"The Scandalous, Dissolute, No-Good Mr. Wright" by Tessa Dare

Because of a foolish mistake in her youth, Miss Eliza Cade is not allowed "out" in Society until her three older sisters are wed. But while she's trying to be good, Eliza keeps bumping elbows--and lips--with the notorious rake Harry Wright. The passions he stirs in her are so wrong...but she just can't resist Mr. Wright.

"The Misbehaving Marquess," by Leigh LaValle

Having awaited the return of her husband for half a decade, Catherine Raybourne, the Marchioness of Foster, has no intention of reconciling with her misbehaving marquess. But when he insists he needs an heir--immediately--she must confront her own lingering desires. Can she protect her heart while attempting to win his once again?

"The Lady Always Wins," by Courtney Milan

Railway financier Simon Davenant has waited seven years for a second chance with his childhood sweetheart and best friend. He isn't about to let his impending financial ruin destroy the opportunity. This time, he'll do anything he can to secure her hand in marriage--even if it means losing her heart for good.

"Solomon's Wisdom," by Carey Baldwin

Bad-boy-turned-pediatrician Charlie "Drex" Drexler returns to Tangleheart, Texas hoping to reconnect with his old flame--but Anna won't cooperate, his dark past resurfaces, and his best friend's baby disappears. How will Drex and Anna mend their broken hearts while dodging bullets and racing to bring baby home safely?]]> 292 Tessa Dare 1937248070 Kaye 0 3.56 Three Weddings and a Murder
author: Tessa Dare
name: Kaye
average rating: 3.56
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/08/07
shelves: sounds-interesting, historical-romance, novella
review:

]]> A Light in the Attic 30118 Last night while I lay thinking here
Some Whatifs crawled inside my ear
And pranced and partied all night long
And sang their same old Whatif song:

Whatif I flunk that test?
Whatif green hair grows on my chest?
Whatif nobody likes me?
Whatif a bolt of lightning strikes me?...This 20th anniversary of Shel Silverstein's A Light in the Attic includes a CD of highlights from his Grammy Award-winning album.

Here in the attic of Shel Silverstein you will find Backward Bill, Sour Face Ann, the Meehoo with an Exactlywatt, and the Polar Bear in the Frigidaire. You will talk with Broiled Face, and find out what happens when Somebody steals your knees, you get caught by the Quick-Digesting Gink, a Mountain snores, and They Put a Brassiere on the Camel.

From the creator of the beloved poetry collections Where the Sidewalk Ends and Falling Up, here is another wondrous book of poems and drawings.]]> 176 Shel Silverstein 0060513063 Kaye 4 books-read-in-2024, children 4.36 1981 A Light in the Attic
author: Shel Silverstein
name: Kaye
average rating: 4.36
book published: 1981
rating: 4
read at: 2024/02/27
date added: 2024/08/07
shelves: books-read-in-2024, children
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Never Cross a Highlander (The Shadow Lairds)]]> 56268914
Ailsa Connery has waited three long years to finally escape her enslavement at Stirling Castle and reunite with her clan. But her carefully laid plans are completely destroyed by the arrival of the infamous Highland warrior known as Dubh Mahoun, the Black Devil...who has plans of his own.

Kallum MacNeill's fearsome reputation has long allowed him to keep hidden his secret double life of freeing enslaved captives across the land. It's only when he kidnaps a servant lass—quite by accident—that he finds himself facing a wee predicament. He must accompany the lass home or risk her exposing his true identity. It'd be easy enough...if the feisty hellion didn't fight him at every turn.

As they make their way to the Highlands, the perils the two must face are surpassed only by their constant sparring. Soon, their heated sniping sparks heat of a totally different kind. The kind that ignites a hunger that could consume them both. Yet the difficult journey is no match for the dangerous secrets they're about to uncover.]]> 448 Lisa Rayne 1649370954 Kaye 4 3.88 2022 Never Cross a Highlander (The Shadow Lairds)
author: Lisa Rayne
name: Kaye
average rating: 3.88
book published: 2022
rating: 4
read at: 2024/03/12
date added: 2024/08/07
shelves: hist-16th-17th-centuries, historical-romance, books-read-in-2024
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Grave Mercy (His Fair Assassin, #1)]]> 9565548 Why be the sheep, when you can be the wolf?

Seventeen-year-old Ismae escapes from the brutality of an arranged marriage into the sanctuary of the convent of St. Mortain, where the sisters still serve the gods of old. Here she learns that the god of Death Himself has blessed her with dangerous gifts—and a violent destiny. If she chooses to stay at the convent, she will be trained as an assassin and serve as a handmaiden to Death. To claim her new life, she must destroy the lives of others.

Ismae’s most important assignment takes her straight into the high court of Brittany—where she finds herself woefully under prepared—not only for the deadly games of intrigue and treason, but for the impossible choices she must make. For how can she deliver Death’s vengeance upon a target who, against her will, has stolen her heart?]]> 549 Robin LaFevers 054762834X Kaye 5 Rating: 4.5 stars

Excellent! One of the best YA/fantasy novels I've read in a long time (though it's really more New Adult, rather than young adult, as the themes are much more sophisticated and mature than what's usually found in standard YA).

I've already put book 2 on hold at the library and can't wait to get started.

The only disappointment I had with this book was the dissatisfaction I had with the conclusion of the romantic storyline. While the rest of the story and plot were well done and kept me enthralled with the book (I can't remember the last time when I've spent a Sunday afternoon just sitting and reading!), I was disappointed with the lackluster ending to the romance. Rather like one of those (many) costume dramas where it ends and all I can think is: the least they could have done was give us a kiss!]]> 3.89 2012 Grave Mercy (His Fair Assassin, #1)
author: Robin LaFevers
name: Kaye
average rating: 3.89
book published: 2012
rating: 5
read at: 2024/04/19
date added: 2024/08/07
shelves: books-read-in-2015, hist-10th-15th-centuries, historical-fiction, paranormal, fantasy-romance, books-read-in-2024
review:
First reading, 2015
Rating: 4.5 stars

Excellent! One of the best YA/fantasy novels I've read in a long time (though it's really more New Adult, rather than young adult, as the themes are much more sophisticated and mature than what's usually found in standard YA).

I've already put book 2 on hold at the library and can't wait to get started.

The only disappointment I had with this book was the dissatisfaction I had with the conclusion of the romantic storyline. While the rest of the story and plot were well done and kept me enthralled with the book (I can't remember the last time when I've spent a Sunday afternoon just sitting and reading!), I was disappointed with the lackluster ending to the romance. Rather like one of those (many) costume dramas where it ends and all I can think is: the least they could have done was give us a kiss!
]]> Honor's Splendour 107774 New York Times bestselling author Julie Garwood is a fan favorite—a beautiful lady needs rescue from a knight in shining armor, and gets an alpha warrior instead.

In the feuding English court, gentle Lady Madelyne suffered the cruel whims of her ruthless brother, Baron Louddon. Then, in vengeance for a bitter crime, Baron Duncan of Wexton—the Wolf—unleashed his warriors against Louddon. Exquisite Madelyne was the prize he catured...but when he gazed upon the proud beauty, he pledged to protect her with his life. In his rough-hewn castle, Duncan proved true to his honor. But when at last their noble passion conquered them both, she surrendered with all her soul. Now, for love, Madelyne would stand fast...as bravely as her Lord, the powerful Wolf who fought for...Honor’s Splendour.]]> 374 Julie Garwood 0671737821 Kaye 4 4.21 1987 Honor's Splendour
author: Julie Garwood
name: Kaye
average rating: 4.21
book published: 1987
rating: 4
read at: 2024/05/09
date added: 2024/08/07
shelves: historical-romance, lifetime-favorites, hist-10th-15th-centuries, books-read-in-2021, books-read-in-2024
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Simple Thai Food: Classic Recipes from the Thai Home Kitchen [A Cookbook]]]> 18142451
Who can say no to a delicious plate of Pad Thai with Shrimp; a fresh, tangy Green Papaya Salad; golden Fried Spring Rolls; or a rich, savory Pork Toast with Cucumber Relish? Thai food is not only one of the most vibrant, wonderfully varied cuisines in the world, it also happens to be one of the tastiest, and a favorite among American eaters.

The good news is, with the right ingredients and a few basic tools and techniques, authentic Thai food is easily within reach of home cooks. Take it from Leela Punyaratabandhu, a Bangkok native and author of the popular Thai cooking blog She Simmers . In her much-anticipated debut cookbook, Leela shares her favorite recipes for classic Thai fare, including beloved family recipes, popular street food specialties, and iconic dishes from Thai restaurant menus around the world.

All of Leela’s recipes have been tested and tweaked to ensure that even the busiest cook can prepare them at home. With chapters on key ingredients and tools, base recipes, one-plate meals, classic rice accompaniments, and even Thai sweets, Simple Thai Food is a complete primer for anyone who wants to give Thai cooking a try. By the end of the book, you’ll be whipping up tom yam soup and duck red curry that will put your local takeout joint to shame. But perhaps more importantly, you’ll discover an exciting new world of Thai flavors and dishes—including Stir-Fried Chicken with Chile Jam, Leaf-Wrapped Salad Bites, and Crispy Wings with Three-Flavored Sauce—that will open your eyes to all the wonderful possibilities that real Thai cooking has to offer.]]> 236 Leela Punyaratabandhu 1607745232 Kaye 4 cookbooks, books-read-in-2024 3.96 2014 Simple Thai Food: Classic Recipes from the Thai Home Kitchen [A Cookbook]
author: Leela Punyaratabandhu
name: Kaye
average rating: 3.96
book published: 2014
rating: 4
read at: 2024/08/07
date added: 2024/08/07
shelves: cookbooks, books-read-in-2024
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Mortal Heart (His Fair Assassin, #3)]]> 20522640
She has spent her whole life training to be an assassin. Just because the convent has changed its mind doesn't mean she has...]]> 444 Robin LaFevers 0547628404 Kaye 3
Definitely the weakest in the trilogy. FAR too much of the book is spent mulling around stuff inside Annith's head---recapping and endlessly chewing over and over and over what's already happened and the questions of the story and what decisions she's facing. (The Kindle version was also not as well edited as the first two---many times, there were missing or misused words, incorrect punctuation, etc., which don't seem to have been present in the other two.)

While the "surprise twist" with the romantic storyline was telegraphed clearly from the beginning and no surprise, the other "surprise twist" was interesting and did try to explain what happened in the previous books. [spoilers removed]

Annith herself was just . . . too boring and too perfect. Sure, she thought a lot about how hard she had to work and try when she was growing up to prove herself and become an assassin. But she suffers a bit from Mary-Sue syndrome: she's got mad skillz in everything, everyone loves her [spoilers removed], no one questions anything she does (except the abbess---and we knew from the previous books that something was off there, anyway), and she's extremely successful at everything she does.

While it was good to see the conclusion of the story, I walk away from the series feeling just a bit dissatisfied with it due to this last story. (Of course, if the other two hadn't been so fabulous, this one might not have suffered quite as much by comparison.)]]> 4.10 2014 Mortal Heart (His Fair Assassin, #3)
author: Robin LaFevers
name: Kaye
average rating: 4.10
book published: 2014
rating: 3
read at: 2024/06/06
date added: 2024/08/07
shelves: books-read-in-2015, hist-10th-15th-centuries, young-adult, fantasy-romance, books-read-in-2024
review:
3.5 to 3.75 stars

Definitely the weakest in the trilogy. FAR too much of the book is spent mulling around stuff inside Annith's head---recapping and endlessly chewing over and over and over what's already happened and the questions of the story and what decisions she's facing. (The Kindle version was also not as well edited as the first two---many times, there were missing or misused words, incorrect punctuation, etc., which don't seem to have been present in the other two.)

While the "surprise twist" with the romantic storyline was telegraphed clearly from the beginning and no surprise, the other "surprise twist" was interesting and did try to explain what happened in the previous books. [spoilers removed]

Annith herself was just . . . too boring and too perfect. Sure, she thought a lot about how hard she had to work and try when she was growing up to prove herself and become an assassin. But she suffers a bit from Mary-Sue syndrome: she's got mad skillz in everything, everyone loves her [spoilers removed], no one questions anything she does (except the abbess---and we knew from the previous books that something was off there, anyway), and she's extremely successful at everything she does.

While it was good to see the conclusion of the story, I walk away from the series feeling just a bit dissatisfied with it due to this last story. (Of course, if the other two hadn't been so fabulous, this one might not have suffered quite as much by comparison.)
]]> <![CDATA[A Match to Fool Society (Matchmade Marriages, #3)]]> 60805651 A convenient arrangement...

...a complicated attraction

Jane Ashworth dreams of being an author, yet Society insists she become a debutante—so play the game she must! Jane finds an unlikely ally in notorious rake Tom Stewart. As a new guardian to his nephew, Tom is out of his depth and intent on remaining a bachelor. They agree to fool society with a pretend courtship, but both are unprepared when the lines of their agreement start to become blurred...

]]> 260 Laura Martin 0369729994 Kaye 3
Too often throughout the book, I found myself pulled out of the story by wondering, "But what happened with . . ." some action or detail that suddenly got dropped/ignored/forgotten about. And this is the main reason that it took me nearly two months to read a 260-page novelette and had to force myself to finish it. I just couldn't stay invested in the characters' story for the technical issues.]]> 3.74 2022 A Match to Fool Society (Matchmade Marriages, #3)
author: Laura Martin
name: Kaye
average rating: 3.74
book published: 2022
rating: 3
read at: 2024/07/27
date added: 2024/08/07
shelves: books-read-in-2024, hist-19th-c-1800-1820s, historical-romance
review:
Meh. If I could give half stars, this one would be about 3.5. Cute story, but one of the biggest issues I had with it was continuity. For example, at the beginning of a scene, he would lock the door. Then a few pages later, she's running out through the door -- without needing to unlock it or get the key from him first. He says they'll be married within a week. When the next chapter starts, it's been "several weeks" since he said that -- with no explanation as to why it took longer or what happened in those weeks. Or a scene/chapter would end. The next chapter would start seemingly picking up where the last one left off but then a few paragraphs into it, it becomes apparent that this is a different day/setting with different characters, which was jarring.

Too often throughout the book, I found myself pulled out of the story by wondering, "But what happened with . . ." some action or detail that suddenly got dropped/ignored/forgotten about. And this is the main reason that it took me nearly two months to read a 260-page novelette and had to force myself to finish it. I just couldn't stay invested in the characters' story for the technical issues.
]]> <![CDATA[The Chicken Bible: Say Goodbye to Boring Chicken with 500 Recipes for Easy Dinners, Braises, Wings, Stir-Fries, and So Much More]]> 53387500 Cook chicken like never before. Get and stay inspired with 500 recipes that go beyond the breast to deliver easy dinners, braises, wings, stir-fries, and so much more.

Many cooks fall into a chicken recipe rut and make the same thing over and over again. Stay out of that rut with The Chicken Bible. The test cooks at America's Test Kitchen have cooked chicken almost every day for the last 25 years and so have discovered not only the very best way to cook every kind of chicken but they have also developed hundreds of great recipes. And the basics are only the beginning. Liven up a weeknight with One-Pan Peruvian Chicken with Cauliflower and Sweet Potatoes, impress dinner guests with a streamlined Cassoulet, or deploy your Instant Pot to make Chicken Bouillabaisse. Like fried chicken? We've developed 14 different kinds (so far), including Jack's current favorite, Japanese Fried Chicken Thighs, where marinating, dredging, then frying turns strips of chicken savory and succulent. Also like wings? We have 8 recipes for those, including our game-changing Korean-Style Fried Chicken Wings. We double-fry them so they stay extra-crispy under their blanket of spicy-sweet-salty sauce.

Learn the test kitchen's go-to methods, secrets, and proprietary techniques throughout this expansive resource: when to salt and when to brine; how to add flavor under the skin and over it; cooking in a sealed pot; and high-roasting versus low and slow. Discover the recipe that finally sealed the deal as Julia's, and the company's, all-time favorite way to roast chicken (and we've roasted a lot of chickens). Every cook needs recipes like these in their arsenal.]]> 544 America's Test Kitchen 1948703548 Kaye 4 cookbooks, books-read-in-2024 3.98 2021 The Chicken Bible: Say Goodbye to Boring Chicken with 500 Recipes for Easy Dinners, Braises, Wings, Stir-Fries, and So Much More
author: America's Test Kitchen
name: Kaye
average rating: 3.98
book published: 2021
rating: 4
read at: 2024/08/07
date added: 2024/08/07
shelves: cookbooks, books-read-in-2024
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Southern Fried Sass: A Queen's Guide to Cooking, Decorating, and Living Just a Little "Extra"]]> 101021350 RuPaul’s Drag Race superstar Ginger Minj shares her favorite recipes, best advice, and wildest stories in this hilarious book that’s part memoir, part cookbook. Perfect for fans of Trixie and Katya’s Guide to Modern Womanhood.

Drag icon Ginger Minj brings her signature humor and sass to this tongue-in-cheek memoir-cum-life manual-cum-cookbook. Featuring Ginger’s favorite Southern-inspired recipes, Southern Fried Sass showcases some of her most vulnerable and celebratory moments, revealing the most valuable lessons she’s learned after years in drag and the pearls of wisdom she’s gleaned from her grandmother’s personal brand of Southern resilience.

You’ll cheer for Ginger as she spills the tea with exclusive behind-the-scenes details from three seasons of RuPaul’s Drag Race and offers her best advice on everything from contouring to cooking and setting the table for a full-on Southern-style Thanksgiving dinner. Did we say dinner? Here, you’ll find more than fifty recipes, including The Minx’s Sick’ning Scalloped Pineapple Paradise, Red Barn BBQ Ribs platter, Better Than Sex cake, and countless other decadent desserts. From fighting for what you’re worth to looking good on a motorcycle as a big girl to finding love while also making damn good cupcakes, this is the perfect gift for anyone who wants to live their best life.]]> 270 Ginger Minj 1668005484 Kaye 5 books-read-in-2024, cookbooks 4.31 Southern Fried Sass: A Queen's Guide to Cooking, Decorating, and Living Just a Little "Extra"
author: Ginger Minj
name: Kaye
average rating: 4.31
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2024/08/07
date added: 2024/08/07
shelves: books-read-in-2024, cookbooks
review:

]]> <![CDATA[We of Little Faith: Why I Stopped Pretending to Believe (and Maybe You Should Too)]]> 124954300
Even though a growing number of Americans don’t believe in god, many remain reluctant to say so out loud. Kate Cohen argues that not only is it rewarding for those of little faith to announce themselves, it’s crucial to our country’s future.

As she details the challenges and joys of fully embracing atheism—especially as a parent— Washington Post contributing columnist Kate Cohen does not dismiss religion as dangerous or silly. Instead, she investigates religion’s appeal in order to explain the ways we can thrive without it.

Americans who don’t believe in God call themselves atheists, agnostics, humanists, skeptics, and freethinkers. Sometimes they are called “nones,” based on the box they checked on a survey identifying their religion. And sometimes they call themselves Jewish, Christian, Muslim, or Buddhist.

Whatever you call yourself, if you don’t believe there’s a supernatural being in charge of the universe, it’s time to join the chorus of We of Little Faith .]]> 260 Kate Cohen 1567927378 Kaye 0 to-read, nonfiction-atheism 4.56 We of Little Faith: Why I Stopped Pretending to Believe (and Maybe You Should Too)
author: Kate Cohen
name: Kaye
average rating: 4.56
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/08/07
shelves: to-read, nonfiction-atheism
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Assistant to the Villain (Assistant to the Villain, #1)]]> 123257687
ASSISTANT WANTED: Notorious, high-ranking villain seeks loyal, levelheaded assistant for unspecified office duties, supporting staff for random mayhem and terror, and other Dark Things In General. Discretion a must. Excellent benefits.

With ailing family to support, Evie Sage's employment status isn't just important, it's vital. So when a mishap with Rennedawn’s most infamous Villain results in a job offer―naturally, she says yes. No job is perfect, of course, but even less so when you develop a teeny crush on your terrifying, temperamental, and undeniably hot boss. Don’t find evil so attractive, Evie.

But just when she’s getting used to severed heads suspended from the ceiling and the odd squish of an errant eyeball beneath her heel, Evie suspects this dungeon has a huge rat…and not just the literal kind. Because something rotten is growing in the kingdom of Rennedawn, and someone wants to take the Villain―and his entire nefarious empire―out.

Now Evie must not only resist drooling over her boss but also figure out exactly who is sabotaging his work…and ensure he makes them pay.

After all, a good job is hard to find.]]> 342 Hannah Nicole Maehrer 1649375808 Kaye 0 to-read 3.88 2023 Assistant to the Villain (Assistant to the Villain, #1)
author: Hannah Nicole Maehrer
name: Kaye
average rating: 3.88
book published: 2023
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/07/24
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Buy-In (Love Stories in Sheet Cake, Texas, #1)]]> 59047865 "You can't Schitt's Creek a town, Tank."
"And you can't verb a noun, son."

When a family of former pro football players buy a small Texas town, they didn't intend to start a war with its residents ... or to fall in love.

Ever since his career-ending injury, Pat has bounced from job to job, idea to idea, short-lived relationship to short-lived relationship. But when his father purchases the town of Sheet Cake, Pat suddenly sees his life with clear purpose: get his brothers on board with his dad's wild idea and win back the one woman who got away.

Lindy was supposed to be traveling the world, not stuck in a small town, caring for her niece. But she would do anything to keep custody of Jo--even if that looks like a marriage of convenience with the man who already broke her heart once.

Now if she can only keep herself from falling back in love with her husband...

This is a small town, marriage of convenience romantic comedy with plenty of sizzle while keeping the bedroom door closed. It's the first in a spinoff series following Harper's brothers (from Falling for Your Best Friend). You don't need to have read the Love Clichés series first to enjoy this book.]]> 436 Emma St. Clair Kaye 0 3.98 2022 The Buy-In (Love Stories in Sheet Cake, Texas, #1)
author: Emma St. Clair
name: Kaye
average rating: 3.98
book published: 2022
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/07/24
shelves: sounds-interesting, contemporary-romance
review:

]]>