Review: Game Changer

Game Changer by Rachel Reid
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I haven't seen Heated Rivalry yet and I fully plan too.  Once I've read the book.  Since this is a series, I wanted to read the first book (since I've read somewhere that Scott and Kip make an appearance in the HBO/Crave series).  Must. Read. In. Order.

Scott Hunter is a damn good hockey player.  He is the team captain and was a bit of a childhood prodigy.  And he has a big secret.  

Kip is in his mid 20s and is a bit stuck in a rut.  He's got a bachelor's in history, but hasn't been able to find a job in his field.  So, he works in a food service job.  He also lives with his parents.  It is at his job he meets Scott.

They do have an instant attraction that eventually leads to a lot of sex (this book has A LOT of sex scenes).  They do fall for each other pretty fast.  I was okay with that.  The big hiccup is Scott is closeted and Kip has been out since he was 18.  Kip's timing with having the talk wasn't the best (the playoff dude).  But at the end of the day, it worked out.  The epilogue was nice.  Ilya Rozanov makes an appearance in this one too; the epilogue hints at his story.

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Review: The Twelve Dates of Christmas

The Twelve Dates of Christmas by Jenny Bayliss
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

Kate gets signed up with a dating agency that promises to find someone to love before the Holidays.  And so the 12 dates start.  

The person she would end up with was obvious (it's a friends to lovers), so much of this was just unnecessary.  It's overly descriptive at times.  I was bored frankly.  

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Review: While It Was Snowing

While It Was Snowing by Julia London
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Amy works in HR and has always wanted to be an artist (paint).  But motherhood and family obligations put that dream on hold.  See, Amy is a doormat for her family.  Her kids, Jonah (17) and Ethan (13) expect her to wait on them for everything, her 48 year old brother sleeps on her couch (quit his job and broke up with one of many girlfriends), her ex-husband not only cheated on her, but now wants her back, her parents visit her numerous times unannounced, and she is expected to drop everything to fix everyone else's problems.  

Harrison is a pro golfer coming back from injury (car accident).  He turns 50 soon and recovery is slow.  Plus, he doesn't know what he wants to do after golf.  He is an only child and his parents are always busy, so he rarely sees them.

When Amy's friend Julie offers her her family's lake home for 2 weeks, she jumps at the chance to have 2 weeks to herself to paint and paint some more.  There is a contest she wants to enter.  But Julie's sister Sam rented the house to Harrison, so Amy (and Harrison) get a surprise.  Since the house if a big one, they decide to share.                          

While I was prepared to not like the book when I started, because really, I hated her family.  But then, a crazy thing happened.  I got invested in Amy and Harrison's love story.  While the Bossy Posse ignores boundaries, they are a close-knit group of friends that love and support each other.  Her family does love and support her, but they (the adults anyway) realize they count on her too much.  And even better Amy, realizes she has been a doormat and makes changes.  And Harrison figures out what he really wants and is able to do things on his own terms. I had a hard time putting the book down.  

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Review: Merry Inkmas

Merry Inkmas by Talia Hibbert
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Both Bailey and Cash has father issues.  Neither want to fall in love; Bailey feels love is a weapon and Cash worries he would become his father.  They first met when Cash comes to her cafe to order a coffee.  And repeats.  He offers her a job when she is fired for helping a homeless guy.  Cash is famous for his tattoos and owns his own tattoo parlor.

Nicely paced for a book on the shorter side (around 200 pages).  I thought they got to know each other and while their attraction was lusty at first, I could see them together.  Even better is this has an epilogue!

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Review: The Sword Dancer

The Sword Dancer by Jeannie Lin
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Wen Li Feng is on a mission to find out what happened to her parents.  She has been traveling with an acrobatic group and uses her skills as a sword dancer (she can also defend herself).  She gets linked to a theft of jade which sets thief catcher (think bounty hunter) Zheng Hao Han on her tail.  Something about her strikes him.  He catches her and she escapes.  Repeat.  

They gradually learn each other's stories and Han vows to help her, realizing that sometimes things aren't always black and white.  They also gradually fall for each other.  I liked that she is capable of saving herself. Great action.  She does find out what happened with her parents and that was satisfying in happy and sad ways.  

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Review: Believe Me: How Trusting Women Can Change the World

Believe Me: How Trusting Women Can Change the World by Jessica Valenti
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A good variety of personal stories and viewpoints dealing with sexual assault, harassment,  racism, etc.  Pretty heavy topics, but ones that effect many people.  At the end of the day, believe women.  The world would be so much better.  

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Review: The Idaho Four: An American Tragedy

The Idaho Four: An American Tragedy by James Patterson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Living in Idaho, we couldn't escape hearing about this case.  More so once it was moved to Ada County (Boise) for the larger jury pool.  

This focused more on the victims and their friends and families.  This does a nice job of "showing" how they were as people.  

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Review: You Better Not Pout

You Better Not Pout by Mia Sosa
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Juliana and Eric were engaged and broke up right before the holidays.  They decide to fake their relationship for the sake of Juliana's family.  

Not a big fan of 2nd chance, but this wasn't too bad.  I liked both characters and their main problem wasn't that they didn't love and care for the other, but rather a lack of communication.  With Juliana's mom's help (she and Eric had a conversation), they give things a second chance.  Nicely paced.

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Review: Finding My Way

Finding My Way by Malala Yousafzai
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wonderful!  I admire her so much. I thought this memoir went a long way into making her a real person who makes mistakes, has flaws, and just is trying to live her life.  Just like everyone else.  This covers a bit of high school, but focuses on her time in college, making friends, and meeting her husband.  

This focuses on the fine line she is always trying to walk; being true to herself and keeping more conservative people happy.  This is also a focus; men policing women's bodies (to "protect" them).  I can't imagine having my every move and picture scrutinized.  Is she Muslim enough?  Pakistani enough?  She was also the sole breadwinner for her family; responsive not only for herself, but her dad, mom, brothers, family back home in Pakistan.  That is so much to put on a teenager.  

She has a way with words and maybe she will write another in a few years.   

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Review: All Wrapped Up in You

All Wrapped Up in You by Rosie Danan
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Piper has a crush on her neighbor.  They've never met, but they have a texting relationship that they are both really into.  Scott (the neighbor) wants to meet, but doesn't know how to ask.

I liked their meet-cure outside the comedy club (Piper was having a pre-show panic attack, she was performing); even though they never shared their names.  Then later when Piper needed stitches, she was at Scott's ER and they met again.  I understood why no one asked the other out; for Scott, she's a patient (and it would have been inappropriate) and Piper had some self-confidence issues.

But then things do work-out when he locks himself out after a long shift on Christmas Eve.  Piper is home!  And she comes to is rescue.  I liked the pacing, but this would have worked a little better if they had been more at the end (like an epilogue).

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Review: Giving Up Is Unforgivable: A Manual for Keeping a Democracy

Giving Up Is Unforgivable: A Manual for Keeping a Democracy by Joyce Vance
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I follow JV on her Substack.  After being a free member for a handful of months, I have recently become a paid member since I read everything she puts out.

This is timely.  As a reminder, elections have consequences.  This is a good history refresher, an explainer for those that could use it.  The Presidency of the United States has checks on it.  When used.  Article 1- Congress; they've pretty much let this orange, sexist, racist, demented asshole do whatever the fuck he wants.  There (finally) has been a little (emphasis on little) push-back this week, so we shall see.  Article 3; the Courts; they've (for the most part) have been doing there job and holding the orange, sexist, racist, demented asshole accountable (as much as they can anyway).  Then there is the Press; the Mainstream Media has been doing a little bit, but not nearly enough of what they should.  Independent Media continues to do a fantastic job.  I will edit to say this is my opinion; my MAGA parents would strongly disagree with that statement.  Hell, this review (my dad wants me deported.  Where?  Not sure.  I was born here, so was he, so where my grandparents, etc).  

The Rule of Law in short means that no one is above the law.  This is becoming questionable when one looks at all the pardons the orange, sexist, racist, demented asshole has given out.  White collar crimes (Paul Walczak, George Santos, this list is massive), drug crimes (Juan Orlando Hernandez), insurrection (when he pardoned the Jan 6 participants).  With the Supreme Court ruling in 2024 (Trump vs the United States) going the orange, sexist, racist, demented asshole immunity for "official acts," I honestly do not know there the Rule of Law stands anymore.  

JV also discusses how controlling the narrative is important.  With the "right" snapshot, they grow and take on a life of their own.  

In short, be active in your community.  Participate when you can.  Make phone calls, write postcards, participate in boycotts (for example Home Depot), contact your elected officials, participate in the next No Kings protest.  

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Review: Merry and Bright

Merry and Bright by Ali Rosen
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Miriam is going home to spend Hanukkah with her family.  She is the youngest (a surprise pregnancy) and her parents and siblings tend to ignore her.  Cal is a football player and is recovering from an injury.  He too, is going home and is dreading it.  He feels his parents are too overbearing (not quite right, but I can't think of the word I want).  They end of sitting together and really connecting on the flight home.  A deal is stuck.  A fake relationship.

This was lovely.  Well paced, I liked both characters and I could see their relationship bloom.  I felt Miriam's family was a bit frustrating.  I really liked how Cal stood by her.  There is a reason Cal doesn't have a solid relationship with his parents and I won't spoil it.  It does make sense and Miriam helps break the ice (so to speak).  

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Review: Snow Place Like Home

Snow Place Like Home by Laura Pavlov
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

oldie has moved back home to start her own vet practice after breaking up with her boyfriend (he was cheating on her). Her brother loves Christmas and is getting married on Christmas Day. She is the maid of honor, and her crush (hoer brother's best friend) is the best man. Ace may also have a thing for Goldie, but has not had the guts to act on it.
Well paced and I think this worked well since the pair have known each other all their lives. I could see them together.

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Review: Big Dumb Eyes: Stories from a Simpler Mind

Big Dumb Eyes: Stories from a Simpler Mind by Nate Bargatze
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

Nate Bargatze is a comedian I sometimes enjoy. I liked it when he hosted SNL. Some of the book is funny, most is not. Disappointed.

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Review: Nobody's Girl: A Memoir of Surviving Abuse and Fighting for Justice

Nobody's Girl: A Memoir of Surviving Abuse and Fighting for Justice by Virginia Roberts Giuffre
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Oh my. This was grueling and hard to read. But necessary. It's disheartening and fills me with rage. VRG was a very brave woman. Her memoir is in 4 parts. Her childhood, her time with Epstein, the acknowledgement that she is a Survivor, and as an activist.
She was an easier target due to her childhood sexual abuse by her father and a friend of his. I appreciated how she acknowledged she found girls for Epstein to abuse once he had his hook in her and the hard spot she was in. She, like every single person, was flawed, did things they knew to be wrong, and acknowledged that. I think people forget that Survivors go through various stages (and regress at times too) when coping & dealing with the trauma. She bravely escaped when she had an opportunity.
I also appreciate she points out the criticism she and other Survivors received when discussing settlements received by Epstein (and later his estate after his arrest and death). "The DOJ-not Epstein's victims- made the secret deal that ultimately let Epstein off the hook in 2008 (Alex Acosta)...We were also told that extracting money from him was the only way to punish him...But here's the real reason I'm angry at those who judge victims who settle: all that legalese in our lawsuits about pain and suffering and mental anguish- those things are real. And getting treatment for them costs money."
She wrote about her attempted suicides (twice) in 2022 and it is heartbreaking that she was successful earlier this year (April 2025). "And my mental health has faltered at times too- as it may continue to falter for the rest of my life." 
Let's not forget the other (as of now unnamed) rich men who are free and living their lives like they did nothing wrong. Unpunished. Unrepentant.
And let's not forget Ghislaine Maxwell. Moved to a low security comfortable prison where she enjoys special privileges. What the fuck? Let's not forget she wants trump to commute her sentence or a pardon.
"If you've read this far, I hope my story has moved you-to seek ways to free yourself from a bad situation, say, to stand up for someone else in need, or to simply reframe how you judge victims of sexual abuse."

Rest in peace and power Virginia.

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Review: A Haunted History of Invisible Women: True Stories of America's Ghosts

A Haunted History of Invisible Women: True Stories of America's Ghosts by Leanna Renee Hieber
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Very interesting take and break down of multiple places that are said to be haunted and the women said to be behind the haunting. The authors present the history behind and in many cases there is so much more to the story. In some cases, what is "sold" on a ghost tour is not factually accurate (an example is the Sorrel Weed house). They cover a variety of time periods and locations throughout the continental US.

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Review: Nice Girls Don't Win: How I Burned It All Down to Claim My Power

Nice Girls Don't Win: How I Burned It All Down to Claim My Power by Parvati Shallow
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I enjoyed the "Black Widow" when she was on Survivor. And later The Traitors. Not to say she did things perfectly, she had some moments. I did think she (mostly successfully) played into expectations and came out on top.
Her story is a good reminder that no matter what, other people will judge you and judge harshly. And no matter what the public persona is, there are things going on privately that we do not know. One who presents as super confident, but may not be privately.

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Review: Space Vampire

Space Vampire by Ruby Dixon
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Dana is a human and was the "pet" of an alien. She is left behind when her captors evacuate their space station. Apparently a monster might be loose. Meet Vlad, a lab created vampire and held captive. Together, they come up with a plan to escape their captivity.
It's a bit insta-love. I found I didn't mind that much. Minimal world building (like how Dana came to be kidnapped/captive for example- or if it said, I don't remember). I was pleasantly surprised.

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Review: Beautiful Nightmare

Beautiful Nightmare by Katee Robert
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Gemma is supposed to feed on fear as a paralysis sleep demon. She's tried numerous jobs and this is her last chance before she gets sent elsewhere. When she tries to scare Caleb, he is turned on (she's a pink, horned monster).
Beware of the weirdness and insta-lust. It turns out Gemma is just in the wrong place; she feeds on good emotions and not fear. I was surprisingly entertained.

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Review: My Boyfriends Are All Monsters

My Boyfriends Are All Monsters by Kimberly Lemming
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

2.5*
This author's other stuff is better.
Lucy is hiking with her boyfriend (and his "friend") when she gets injured. They leave her behind. She makes a wish (for a decent man). Enter multiple helpful creatures that help her. Maybe they are the same individual.
I liked the back and forth texting with her friends. She's got good friends. And, um, the tentacle sex was interesting.

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Review: Saddle Up

Saddle Up by A.M. Arthur
My rating: 4 of 5 stars


I've been looking forward to Miles and Reyes'story. Reyes is now head cowboy and the Bentley Ghost Town is now open. Miles is the head chef at the saloon and is starting over from his abusive relationship with Dallas. He and Reyes are now roommates.
This was slower, a friends to lovers story. We learned more about Miles's relationship with Dallas. We also learn about the Bad Thing that Reyes did when he was 16. I really liked Reyes' protectiveness towards Miles. At the same time, Miles is about to handle himself. They each had a give and take; with Reyes having a harder time with the "taking." I did think the ending was a bit rushed with Reyes reveal of the Thing.

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Review: How the World Ran Out of Everything: Inside the Global Supply Chain

How the World Ran Out of Everything: Inside the Global Supply Chain by Peter S. Goodman
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The supply chain is dependent on so many individuals. Individuals who are mostly low-wage and are treated as disposable "costs to be contained." The lack of regulations to protect those workers also plays a role.
A lot goes into trucking; truckers only get paid for the number of miles they drive. However there is much more that goes into it. They have to pick up their rig (which may have a wait time- unpaid), they have to have the rig loaded & many times there may be a wait for that (again unpaid time), and when on the road they have to plan for stops, especially at night to park and sleep. Then there is the time away from family.
Very interesting.

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Review: Spicy Little Curses

Spicy Little Curses by J.T. Geissinger
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

Petra is a reporter and Dax can ink tattoos that can almost come alive. This just had too many things going on for a novella. Too many loose ends and questions at the end.

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Review: A Hope Divided

A Hope Divided by Alyssa Cole
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I loved this.
Marlie is a herbalist; trained by her mother (and her mother's mother, etc). She's a free Black woman; her father is a white plantation owner. There is a twist about Marlie's parentage (it is not a surprise IMO). Her mother sends her to live with her father's family.
Ewan is a Union soldier. He doesn't feel emotion and has used this skill as an interrogator for the Union Army. Marlie and Ewan meet while Ewan is a POW. Ewan escaped and Marlie is able to hide him.
When her home becomes unsafe, they both leave. Marlie used to feel safe and she realizes her acceptance within the family is transactional (I would argue).
I liked the fact this was set in the South. I liked that we could read about the Southern resistance to the Civil War. I think history has glossed over that (and in the South, well, they didn't exist).

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Review: 107 Days

107 Days by Kamala Harris
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is Kamala Harris's point of view of her presidential candidacy.  

I will be starting with a bit of a rant, bear with me (and you've been warned).  When all is said and done, Joe Biden was a good president.  Yes, he did things I hated, things that were okay, things that were good, and things that I loved.  BUT.  His running for re-election tarnishes his record.  When he ran in 2020, he ran as a transitional candidate and I know I'm not the only one who assumed/thought he would be a one term president.  I was so disappointed when he announced he was running for re-election.  There was so much attention (rightfully so) about his age and abilities.  Which is so hypocritical of the media, because now that Trump is in office and is having very similar issues; both mentally AND physically, where is the attention/criticism of main stream media?   

Back on topic.  

I do wonder where we would be had Biden opted to not run and the Democratic party was able to have a "normal" primary season.  Maybe Harris would have been the nominee through that process and maybe not.  But, there still would have been state primaries, debates to decide.

I didn't realize the difficulties she had with Biden's team and the push back on her when she tried to do things.  The pressure to not tarnish his legacy.  It felt that some on Biden's team put his legacy above everything else.  She had pressure to not "dishonor" Biden and yet had to talk about things that he didn't do/should have done.  And the things she would do differently as a result.  There were moments when she was in his shadow.  And moments when she stepped out and stood in her own light.  

I liked the flow of the book; each chapter was a date and told the story of when Biden dropped out to the election's certification in Jan 2025.  Her thought process of picking a VP was enlightening.  The  why she didn't pick certain people (she thought Shapiro wanted to be in the room for every decision, Buttigieg was gay and was the US ready for a Black woman President and a gay VP?).  She got criticism for not going on Joe Rogen's podcast (spoiler alert- she tried and when she was available, he opted to sit down with Trump instead).  

I thought there could have been more self-reflection here.  To be sure, there is some reflection and if she could have a do-over, there are things she would have done differently.  

I will end this with this:

The definition of AUTHORITARIAN from the Merriam-Webster dictionary:

1. of, relating to, or favoring blind submission to authority

2. of, relating to, or favoring a concentration of power in a leader or an elite not constitutionally responsible to the people

This is happening RIGHT NOW in the US.  VOTE in your local election on Tuesday Nov 4th.  VOTE like your life matters, because it DOES.  Let's PROTECT our country.  Let's PROTECT our First Amendment right to SPEECH.  Let's SPEAK UP for the people who can't.  Or won't.  Because at the end of the day, SOMEONE has to or there will not be ANYONE LEFT to speak up for YOU.  Do NOT let OTHERS silence YOUR voice.      

And remember this:  50.19% of the people voted for someone other than Trump.  He continuously talks about a "mandate."  49.81% of the vote SHOULD NOT be a mandate.  

And consider this:  Based on a multitude of articles I've read, Stephen Miller is the person pulling the strings on quite a few things.  Was he the one the people elected?

2026 is a big election year too.  It's Tuesday Nov 3, 2026.  Mark your calendars and VOTE.

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Review: Falling

Falling by Christina Lauren
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

Cat broke up with her boyfriend Jake at a Halloween party. He was boring. She meets Brigan (a Fallen and is cursed). She "sees" him for himself and doesn't obsess over him. This had insta-love, was rushed, and the ending was blah (abrupt).

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Review: A Duke Changes Everything

A Duke Changes Everything by Christy Carlyle
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Nick is the hated 2nd son of the late duke and inherits the title after his brother's death. He has a lot of baggage. His father was abusive and scarred his face. Nick also had 2 different colored eyes. Nick was able to escape his father and is now a self-made man. Mina has always known Enderley (the estate) and village and took over as the estate steward when her father died.
Nick visits to set things in order to rent the place out (since he can't sell it). Enderley is in disrepair. Things change once he gets to know Mina and converse with her.
I found this easy to put down and pick up later. The writing was fine, the characters too. (This was a decent HR, but nothing really stood out).


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Review: Miss Austen

Miss Austen by Gill Hornby
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This is the (fictional) story of Jane Austen's letters to a close friend where she confided details (good and bad) of her life. Jane's sister Cassandra, wants to protect her sister's memory/reputation and invites herself for a visit to Isabel (her mother was the friend and was also the sister to Cassandra's deceased fiance). While there she looks for the letters and helps pack/sort out Isabel's placement (to be a single, unmarried woman, the horror!).
This had a slow start, but did pick up.

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Review: If You Don't Like This, I Will Die: An Influencer Memoir

If You Don't Like This, I Will Die: An Influencer Memoir by Lee Tilghman
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Author was one of the first "influencers" on social media. An "influencer" is a common dream that many aspire to. I thought this showed that it's not easy and you have to be "on" pretty much all the time. There is pressure to look a certain way, be perfect. If not, the criticism is harsh.
This did lose me because I expected more reflection/thoughts on the harms of wellness influencing (and influencing general as well). She contributed to the misinformation and I don't think there was much of an acknowledgement of that.

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Review: Hot for Slayer

Hot for Slayer by Ali Hazelwood
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Aethelthryth or Ethel (as she is now known) is a vampire and throughout the years has had run-ins with Lazlo, a vampire hunter. However, he may not be the enemy she thought he was. It isn't until he gets amnesia, that she gets to know him. It turns out, he liked her and how she treats others. It also helps that she doesn't indiscriminately kill and just goes after the evil of society for her meals.
Nice, quick, lighted-hearted read.

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Review: We Can Do Hard Things: Answers to Life's 20 Questions

We Can Do Hard Things: Answers to Life's 20 Questions by Glennon Doyle
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Self help that was put together by the authors after a life changing year (anorexia, cancer, death of a family member all in the same year). Divided into 20 questions most people ask themselves (for example; Why am I like this? How do I make and keep real friends?). Each question has quotes from the authors and from other people (mostly famous ones).
I didn't realize this until the end, but the authors have a podcast and this was a collection of quotes/sayings based on that podcast.

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Review: Brewing Up a Bad Boy

Brewing Up a Bad Boy by Katherine Garbera
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

When she was 18 Poppy married Alistair. She asked for a divorce when it was later revealed he married her for business reasons (his family wanted her family tea recipes). Now 9 years later, she is part owner of a successful business with her best friends; Sera and Liberty. They own a multi-use bookstore; Poppy her a tea shop located there.
It turns out that Alistair, while he loved Poppy, was also striving to make his father happy too. He wanted his father's love and approval which (because he was an asshole) came with conditions. He got wise and pursued therapy. He's also expanded his knowledge and base and brews beer.
Nice, sweet story. Neither ever got over the other one, so they picked up when they left off (for the most part). People can grow and change if they want to.

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Review: Roped In

Roped In by A.M. Arthur
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is Colt and Avery's story. We met them in the first book. They had previously had a relationship and Colt's inability to tell Mack what happened in a SWAT shooting that went wrong and his inability to trust/accept when Avery had to leave for a work trip. Anyway, they broke up and Colt left the city they both lived in (LA) for a remote ranch (Clean Slate).
Avery comes back in Colt's life when the remains of a ghost town are found on ranch property. Feelings come back. 2nd chance romances aren't my favorite (in my mind y'all broke up for a reason), but I did enjoy this. Both characters are not who they were 5 years prior. They are more mature and own their mistakes. Not super big on BDSM story-lines, but I didn't feel that was a big deal for me in this one (your mileage will probably vary).
Mack and Colt's relationship was improving. Colt made the decision to re-connect with his (very religious, conservative) family. That reunion was (I felt) thrown in towards the end and was a bit rushed. I thought the ending was a bit rushed when all said and done; luckily we get an epilogue.
Next book is Reyes (Mack and Colt's friend) and Miles (Wes's roommate).

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Review: All Boys Aren’t Blue

All Boys Aren’t Blue by George M. Johnson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Well written. Lots of heavy topics (rascism, homophobia, rape, etc). This is a book that some groups have successfully had pulled from school bookshelves and others that are trying. I do think people overlook that abuse knows no boundaries and teens do experience it. Teens do think about sex and have sex. Topics that make people uncomfortable should be discussed. No one lives in a perfect world. I enjoyed this more than I thought I would. You can tell the author writes for a living; the writing style and flow is very well done.

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Review: Good Reasonable People: The Psychology Behind America's Dangerous Divide

Good Reasonable People: The Psychology Behind America's Dangerous Divide by Keith Payne
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This covers the divide in the US that has split families/friends. It's amazing how many people believe fake news (ie immigrants are evil, the Democrats are pedophiles, etc). Not surprising that a lot of this comes down to the education one gets during their schooling. If one goes on to higher education (or some sort of secondary education) they are less susceptible to false information.

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Review: Dreaming in Cuban

Dreaming in Cuban by Cristina García
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This follows 3 generations of women (Celia- the matriarch, her daughters Lourdes and Felicia, and granddaughter Pilar). Well written, but hard to follow a times due to shifting point of view, time, and location. This deals with difficult topics; depression, rape, abuse.
I'm trying to make a point of reading some challenged books each year. This is one such book.

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Review: Catch and Kill: Lies, Spies, and a Conspiracy to Protect Predators

Catch and Kill: Lies, Spies, and a Conspiracy to Protect Predators by Ronan Farrow
My rating: 4 of 5 stars


This was both extremely sad (that someone could even do this) and infuriating. Seriously, what the fuck is wrong with (some) people??

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Review: The Balance: My Years Coaching Simone Biles

The Balance: My Years Coaching Simone Biles by Aimee Boorman
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Interesting read about Simone Biles old coach. As life happens their paths diverge; each going their own way presuming new personal goals/achievements. She does talk about Larry Nassar and the massive cover up. Human being sometimes can see only what they want to see at times; we can be so blind. And then realizing later (most anyway) of how we fucked up. She always talked about the Karolyi's toxic training environment at their camp (and how they were welcomed when the defected by USA Gymnastics). Some coaching styles are cruel, abusive and were considered "normal" and "okay." This was enlightening.

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Review: That Time I Got Drunk and Yeeted a Love Potion at a Werewolf

That Time I Got Drunk and Yeeted a Love Potion at a Werewolf by Kimberly Lemming
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is Brie (she makes cheese and is Cin's best friend) and Felix's (he was introduced in book 1, he is a werewolf) story. Cin and Fallon (from book 1) are happily together and have a strong part to play in this one. Felix imprints on Brie at the same time she accidentally hits him with a love potion. How much is the potion vs he really imprinted? That remains to be seen.
Meanwhile someone/something is kidnapping young, single women from town. People are still getting used to having demons (any supernatural creature) around. Like humans, most are good, but some have bad or murky intentions.
This was funny. It doesn't take itself too seriously, but still served up a fun and engaging story.
Smart Bitches Summer Bingo: Paranormal romance OR magic square

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Review: The Witches Are Coming

The Witches Are Coming by Lindy West
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Covers many subjects from DT's first term to Adam Sandler movies. No topic is off-limits. Insightful.

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Review: The Next Day: Transitions, Change, and Moving Forward

The Next Day: Transitions, Change, and Moving Forward by Melinda French Gates
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

A good reminder that our lives are full of transitions and changes. How do we handle them? That is up to us. Gates is a strong, opinionated woman. Good for her.

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Review: Just a Girl

Just a Girl by Alyssa Cole
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Tiana is just starting college and Covid hits. During this time she started posting on social media about cooking and college life. She gained a loyal group of followers. Now it's time to actually live on campus and dip into the dating pool. This starts when she says no to a man who feels like he's entitled to a woman's attention.
From online harassment that includes the dude and other dudes who feel entitled to women's attention to swatting, Tiana had to deal with it. There were many who supported her and were sympathetic. And many who felt she shouldn't have posted the original exchange (with identifying info crossed out) and brought this on herself.
Excellent (but short) read.
Smart Bitches Summer Bingo: Cover without people

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Review: Who Is Government?: The Untold Story of Public Service

Who Is Government?: The Untold Story of Public Service by Michael Lewis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Bottom line: individuals who chose to go into public service do so to serve their fellow humans and to make the world a better place. This was well done with a variety of points of view.

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Review: Perfect Addiction

Perfect Addiction by Claudia Tan
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Sienna walked on on her boyfriend having sex with her sister. She wants revenge and this drives her from that point forward. She happens to be a MMA trainer and is good at what she does. She's also in college (with very little page time devoted to said college education).
An opportunity comes up to train Kayden, a fighter too, just like her ex Jax. A complication is Jax beat Kayden in a previous fight. Sienna stikes a deal; she will train Kayden in exchange for his spare bedroom. It's a win-win; she needs a place to stay & he needs a trainer.
I thought Sienna held on to her need for revenge for way too long. While I liked that she was kick-ass in her job, she was a bit too perfectly accomplished for being so young (she couldn't legally drink).

Smart Bitches Summer Bingo: sport other than hockey, baseball, football (American).

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Review: The Faithful Executioner: Life and Death, Honor and Shame in the Turbulent Sixteenth Century

The Faithful Executioner: Life and Death, Honor and Shame in the Turbulent Sixteenth Century by Joel F. Harrington
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I shouldn't be surprised that executions were a hot ticket back in the day. This was based on a journal by Franz Schmidt who worked as an executioner for roughly 45 years. He not only did executions, but also torture to get confessions. Torture happened all the time, executions happened periodically throughout the course of the year. Interesting, but sad & depressing.

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Review: Cunk on Everything: The Encyclopedia Philomena

Cunk on Everything: The Encyclopedia Philomena by Philomena Cunk
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I have yet to check out this Netflix show, but I've heard good things! After this book, I will be checking it out. This was so funny! So full of fun "facts." Read this if you need something escapist to read. And totally not serious!

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Review: This Will Be Fun

This Will Be Fun by E.B. Asher
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Beatrice and Elowen are best friends and are involved in a quest with Galwell (Elowen's brother) and Clare (Beatrice's friend/lover/enemy) to save their country.  They succeed, but at a high cost and become heroes.

Fast forward 10 years later.  No one is in touch with the other.  Beatrice refused her heroes pension and married into money.  She is now divorced.  Elowen has his herself away and avoided must human interaction.  Clare has meaningless one night stands.  Each is dealing with grief.  They are reunited because the princess, now Queen Thessia is getting married.  And as it turns out, they are needed for another quest to save the day.

I did like the setting; this is a romantasy with several different elements.  Think people enjoy their TV shows/movies/soaps on a tapestry, coffee shops, etc.  It had an interesting start and then got slow.  It did pick up.  I wasn't crazy about the ending.  

2nd chance romances are not a favorite trope of mine, this has 2 of them (Beatrice and Clare & Elowen and Vandra).  I thought each couple got into their feelings too much which resulted in too much back and forth.  I also thought, in general, everyone read as younger.  However, everyone was 30 or older.  

Smart Bitches Summer Bingo:  Magic or 30+

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Review: Fake It Till You Make It

Fake It Till You Make It by Siera London
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Amarie dumps her cheating fiance and decides to leave everything behind. She had to, since she lives with her ex, worked for her ex (she managed his (doctor) practice), and he controlled the money. She took a job at a small town, struggling vet practice. Eli is the hot, local vet. He also happens to have an ex-wife who is manipulative.
Amarie is able to put her social media skills to good use and vastly help Eli's practice gain a solid footing. Good chemistry and characters. I disliked Amarie's parents. Slow start, but picked up.

Smart Bitches Bingo- small town 

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Review: Paper Doll: Notes from a Late Bloomer

Paper Doll: Notes from a Late Bloomer by Dylan Mulvaney
My rating: 4 of 5 stars


I remember how some on the far right got all butt-hurt over her Bud-light sponsorship/endorsement. It showed the level of pettiness, ridiculousness, and general assholery of some people.
I enjoyed learned about Dylan and the person she is (and is growing to be). Lots of ups, downs, struggles.


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Review: The Mistake

The Mistake by Elle Kennedy
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Excellent new adult book!  John Logan is a star hockey player.  He dreams of going pro, but family obligations keep him from formally going for it.  Grace, a psych major, falls for Logan.  When he does an insensitive thing (well, says something), he has to grovel.  

I liked the main characters, I liked their interactions.  They felt authentic.  Good secondary characters too.

Smart Bitches Summer Bingo- published in your birth month (April)

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