Book Review: Maddie's Saturday to Remember by Karen Jonice Bricker, Samela St. Pierre

Maddie's Saturday to Remember is a picturebook written by Karen Jonice Bricker and illustrated by Samela St. Pierre. Maddie cannot imagine a better way to spend a Saturday afternoon than with her Grandpa. They meet a colorful cast of locals in her hometown: a street musician, a fruit seller, and a pizza chef are all part of this adorable adventure. When Maddie meets the mysterious Lydia, who allows her a sneak peek into the creative and fun behind-the-scenes world of window dressing, she is truly inspired!

Maddie's Saturday to Remember is a cute story about a girl and her grandfather's Saturday activities. I like that it was a very inclusive book, and portrayed the kind of neighborhood I always wished I lived in- where everyone knows each other and is like family. I like that Maddie explores safely and is excited about new things, and is not looked down on or spoken to condescendingly by the adults around her- and her grandfather is also treated with respect. It is a sweet story, and I liked it, and I think there are many young readers and families that will enjoy it. 

Book Review: Deadly Past (Verona Bay Series) by Katie Reus

Deadly Past is the second book in the Verona Bay Series by Katie Reus, but can be read as a stand alone. I did not read the previous book,  but even without that knowledge I understood the important implications and could get immersed in the story. 

Autumn Perez was just twenty-two when she witnessed a brutal murder and gave up her entire life to put the killer behind bars. A decade later, witness protection has her settled in picturesque Verona Bay, teaching art at the local high school. It’s a quiet life…until she’s caught up in another harrowing event and she worries that the US Marshals will try to move her again. But Autumn is done running—she’s built a life, has friends. And now she’s pregnant after an intense one-night stand with her sexy neighbor. Lincoln Jordan has been biding his time with Autumn, his talented, gorgeous neighbor. The attraction between them is undeniable, and after their one incredible night together he wants more. But she’s determined to keep him at arm’s length. When it becomes clear that someone wants her dead, he steps up to protect her. He needs to earn her trust, and fast. Because the enemy is closer than they ever imagined.

Deadly Past is a book with a lot going on. Autumn is a character dealing with plenty of problems, and getting pregnant after a one night stand with her neighbor is actually the least of them. She is a complex character with plenty to unpack.I liked the open communication and banter between Autumn and Lincoln- although I have to agree with some of her worries that he is a little too perfect. The only thing in the con column for Lincoln is his dangerous job, he was sweet, cool, and collected for all but a few moments of the book. I really did like that readers get to see the thoughts of both the major characters, and several other important players. We even get to see the mindset of those causing the danger and drama. Moments like that are a great reminder that no one sees themselves as the bad guy, even when they are trying to arrange murder and mayhem. Everyone is the protagonist in their own story, no matter how villainous their actions from the outside. The story was fairly fast paced and engaging. There was also some serious groundwork laid for who I expect to be the next couple to find trouble and a happy ending in the next book of the series.

Deadly Past is a solid suspense romance with heat, heart, and great characters.