Book Review: No More Bad Dates (High Tea) by Kate O'Keeffe

No More Bad Dates is the first book in the High Tea series by Kate O'Keeffe, but it is clear that at least some of the characters were secondary characters in previous series by the author. It still works as a stand alone, but fans of the author might have  a more engaging read.

Twenty-five-year-old Sophie McCarthy’s career is virtually nonexistent, her family expects her to “do something important” with her life, and she’s totally sick of dating the wrong guys: the self-absorbed, the arrogant, the borderline criminally insane. After she’s unceremoniously dumped during the vows at her boss’s wedding, she and her two equally disappointed-in-love best friends agree to help each other find decent guys to date. Together, they form the No More Bad Dates Pact: stop dating the wrong guys and start dating the right ones—weirdos and jerks need not apply. When Sophie’s roommate Jason Christie—a.k.a. doctor-in-training and serial nurse-dater—joins the pact, he vows to weed out the bad ones for her. But with his rejection of every guy Sophie meets, she begins to wonder if he’s got an ulterior motive. And anyway, why does she always have so much more fun with Jason than with the guys she’s actually trying to date? While desperately seeking her “happy for now,” could Sophie stumble into her “happily ever after?”

No More Bad Dates is a story that focuses more on the journey than the destination. Sophie is sick of bad dates, tired of being talked down to by her siblings, and just wants to figure out what she wants. She loves her job, and her friends, but thinks that she should want more- mostly because other people keep expecting her to. Jason is her roomate, friend, and a serial dater. I like that they are real friends from the start, not friends because they want more- but real friends. I loved the secondary characters- the friends and extended family are great and really keep the story moving and entertaining. The bad dates were terrifying and funny in their own way- and also realistic in terms of some of the people that are out there. I found the story to be more about Sophie figuring out what she wants from life- and figuring out how to get there than about her relationship with Jason. This is not necessarily a bad thing, and will appeal to a variety of readers, it just was not what I was expecting. I would have liked to have seen some of the story from Jason's point of view, even though I know many readers are not as fond of that as I am. I just like knowing what is going from both sides- especially when feeling as in question. I enjoyed the read, and think it will appeal to a wide range of new adult and adult romance readers. 

No More Bad Dates is fun and sweet with plenty of humor and feels. 

Book Review: Mooncakes by Suzanne Walker, Wendy Xu

Mooncakes by Suzanne Walker, Wendy Xu is a graphic novel for young adults. It is a story of love and demons, family and witchcraft. Nova Huang knows more about magic than your average teen witch. She works at her grandmothers' bookshop, where she helps them loan out spell books and investigate any supernatural occurrences in their New England town. One fateful night, she follows reports of a white wolf into the woods, and she comes across the unexpected: her childhood crush, Tam Lang, battling a horse demon in the woods. As a werewolf, Tam has been wandering from place to place for years, unable to call any town home. Pursued by dark forces eager to claim the magic of wolves and out of options, Tam turns to Nova for help. Their latent feelings are rekindled against the backdrop of witchcraft, untested magic, occult rituals, and family ties both new and old in this enchanting tale of self-discovery.

Mooncakes grabbed my attention quickly and kept it. Nova is a sweet girl, honest and a bit reserved except for those she is close to. Tam is clearly struggling with family issues and I enjoyed seeing them reconnect with Nova and found their personal strength. Their battle together against a demon was very well done, and I had trouble stepping away from the book when I had to. The conflict and resolution was well written, and I would be happy to see Tam and Nova's story continue on. I thought the art work captured the mood, emotion, and themes of the book quite well. It was visually attractive and added to the story consistently. I also like how simply and honestly all of the relationships are handled. No one makes a big deal out of pronoun choice or who anyone love- because it should not be a big deal. I wish this level of simple acceptance was more prevalent in the real world. I also love that none of the relationship aspects were played up as a qimick- which happens was too often. It was just pure and organic. 

Mooncakes is a lovely graphic novel that kept me interested and engaged for the entire read. My only disappointment is that I had a digital copy rather than a paper copy because I really wanted to get a closer look at some of the pages without the distortion that comes from zooming in on a digital page. 

Early Book Review: Stealing Her (Covet) by Rachel Van Dyken

Stealing Her is the first book in the Covet series by Rachel Van Dyken. It is currently scheduled for release on November 5 2019. It is listed as a young adult novel on Netgalley, but I think it is better suited for he new adult and adult markets based on the age and lives of the characters. 

My estranged twin brother, Julian, was always the wonder boy—and soon-to-be CEO of our ruthless father’s corporation. My mother and me? Left behind. Now, years after tearing our family apart, my father dares to ask me for a favor? Pretend to be Julian while he fights to survive a tragic accident. It can save the company. Nobody will be the wiser. It’ll be our secret. I can play Dad’s favorite. I’ll do it for Julian. And for my mother, who’ll want for nothing. But this double life comes with a beauty of a hitch: my very real feelings for Julian’s fiancée, Isobel. Not only am I betraying Julian, I’m deceiving a woman I love. She doesn’t suspect a thing. As lies compound, lines are crossed and loyalties tested, all I can ask myself is…what have I done? Because sooner or later something’s got to give. There’s no way I’m giving up Isobel. But once the truth is exposed, it might not be my choice at all.

Stealing Her is a book with all the feels. Bridge resents his father, and worries about his twin even though they have not spoken in years. When tragedy strikes their father's manipulation ramps up to epic proportions and suddenly everything is on the line. Trying to protect his mother and brother Bridge does the unthinkable and pretends to e his brother to everyone, including Julian's fiance Isobel. Watching Bridge and Isobel dance around each other and all the lies and past hurts was very well written- and left me holding my breath on a regular basis. I was always worries about when the other shoe was going to drop- because I knew there was more damage for the twin's father to cause. I enjoyed all the twists and turns- some took me completely by surprise, and others I almost anticipated on some level. The pacing and feels were perfectly paced- and I was left really caring about most of the characters and how they were feeling by the end of the book. I am very eager to see what happens in the next book of the series and hope to see Julian find his own happy ending. 

Stealing Her is a contemporary romance with so many feels, twists, and moments that had me holding my breath. Van Dyken is becoming one of my favorite authors. I cannot wait to read what happens next!

Book Review: Orcas Everywhere: The Mystery and History of Killer Whales by Mark Leiren-Young

Orcas Everywhere: The Mystery and History of Killer Whales by Mark Leiren-Young is a non fiction book for middle grade readers. Orcas are found in every ocean on the planet. But can they survive their relationship with humans? This book looks at how humans around the world (Indigenous and non-Indigenous alike) related to orcas in the past, how we relate to them now, and what we can do to keep cetacean communities alive and thriving. The book deals with science, philosophy, environmentalism and ethics in a kid-friendly and accessible way. Mark Leiren-Young takes readers back to when killer whales were considered monsters and examines how humans went from using orcas for target practice to nearly loving them to death.

Orcas Everywhere is a very informative book, but also rather sad. The way people focus on ourselves and treat other living creatures as a general rule makes me sad. Seeing the history, present, and thoughts on the future of the relationships between people and orca is no different. I did learn a great deal about the orcas and how they have been viewed, treated, and now researched.I had no idea that there were such different whales labeled as 'killer whales', and how different they can be from each other. The different orcas that have been captured and/or researched over the years were sad to read about, because so many stories ended badly, but knowing where we have been helps us to understand where we are, and where we want to go in the future. The legends and stories about personal encounters were interesting to read. The pictures did a good job of showing the beauty of sea life- and some of the effects people have had on them- the small holding tanks and equipment used really brought that message home.  I liked that there was a glossary and selection of further resources. I always find these tools important to encourage interested and engaged readers to explore further. I also like that the suggestions for changes readers can make to help are doable, and that efforts by other young people to help the whales and the environment are highlighted. It is great to see what research and steps adults are making, but knowing kids just like them are stepping up might encourage rea; change and effort from more people. 

Orcas Everywhere is an informative read. Some of the text is heavy and hard to read, because of the subject matter. However, the author does try to keep the tone conversational and accessible to all readers.

Book Review: The Bad Twin by Avery Scott

The Bad Twin by Avery Scott is a stand alone contemporary romance. Being the good twin isn't all it's cracked up to be. Abby Levesque knows that better than anyone. While her sister drifts through life carefree, Abby's left to clean up her messes. The latest mess? Hudson Quinn— the hot, angry billionaire on her doorstep demanding she accompany him to Paris. He's obviously mistaken her for her twin, Gabby, who happens to be his assistant. Too bad Gabby is nowhere to be found. If Abby wants to fix her sister's latest blunder, she'll have to pretend to be someone else for two weeks—preferably someone who isn't wildly attracted to her mercurial boss. As far as Hudson's concerned, his sexy-but-flaky new personal assistant is just another in a long line of terrible decisions and failures in his life. But he's working on the deal of a lifetime—a deal that could change everything for him—and he needs her help to close it. The last thing he ever expected was to connect with her on a soul-deep level. Falling in love wasn't part of the job, and when Hudson finds out who she really is, Abby's terrified he'll never forgive her. With a billion-dollar deal—and both their hearts—on the line, can Abby convince Hudson she's the right twin for him? 

The Bad Twin has some great points, and some things that just did not work for me. I liked Abby for the most part. She is hanging on by a thread and doing everything she can to keep herself- and her twin- in the house the love, fed, and with electricity. Her sister is no help, and causes more problems that aiding in solutions. I can understand the desperation of pretending to be Gabby and getting herself in the difficult situation. I can even understand Hudson not noticing- because he is so focused and driven on the business side that I suspect subtle differences are sometimes unnoticed. I liked the get to know you between the characters, and the slow build between them. I think the big reveal that Abby was not Gabby could have come sooner- and it would have worked better for me. I felt like the book was almost over at the point and the final coming together was more of an afterthought rather than the big climax of the story. I would have like some more 'coming to terms'  time for the couple together. I also had some issues with the fact that the smart twin never thought to have the artwork in her house appraised. Just for insurance purposes that would have been the responsible thing to do- but when you are scrounging to get utilities turned back on I would think the idea of selling at least the art you do not like would have been considered. I also was a little bothered by the sudden personality change of Gabby toward the end- I liked the idea, and the majority of the writing but the last few chapters just fell flat for me.

The Bad Twin is a love story with a great premise and good characters. It was an enjoyable read but it did not grab me the way I was hoping it would. 

Book Review: The Sheikh's Instant Family (Safar Sheikhs) by Leslie North

The Sheikh's Instant Family is the second book in the Safar Sheikhs series by Leslie North.  You do not need to read the books in order, or as series to fully enjoy each one. However returning readers will understand the family drama and secondary characters a little more than new readers.

Sheikh Amad has always gone with his gut, which is why his ventures abroad have multiplied his tribe’s wealth and business connections. But with his 30th birthday approaching—and with expectations that he be married by then—he’s got to go home soon...That means leaving his life in Las Vegas, and Vanessa, the sexy waitress he’s falling for, behind. Vanessa Hammerman has had to work for everything she’s ever had, left by every man from her father on up. Sheikh Amad has been fun, but she’s not thinking of a long-term commitment with a Middle Eastern prince. She’d rather keep it fun…until the pregnancy test comes back positive. Now she’s out on the biggest limb of her life: Will this man run from her, too? Or will he be the one to stay? It seems like fate when Vanessa tells Amad he’s going to be a father, and his marriage proposal is instantaneous. It’s the perfect solution for fulfilling his duty while at the same time satisfying his heart. But when he brings her home to his tribe, he realizes his independent, Western bride might not work so well in the traditional structure of the Middle East. Vanessa has put everything on the line for this: her heart, her career, and her life. So when she refuses to fall in line with Amad’s expectations, they begin to doubt if they can make it work. But if they take the chance, love could become the biggest win of their lives. 

The Sheikh's Instant Family is a book that I had more trouble connecting to than the first in the series. I found the set up and Vanessa's character to be well done. Vanessa is a strong woman that wants to be different than her scheming mother and needs to be busy and useful. I liked her reluctance to accept extravagant gifts and her eagerness to pitch in an contribute. I like that she sometimes wavered, but stood up for herself when it mattered most. I had trouble with Amad. I know he needed room to grow in the story- but his general attitude about women in the workplace and whatnot rubbed me the wrong way very early on. I saw what the conflict was going to be quickly- and while I wanted Vanessa to have her happy ever after, I was not necessarily rooting for Amad.  The story worked, and there were moments that I enjoyed. However, I did not connect with this story. Others might not have the strong reaction I did to Amad, and they are likely to enjoy the read much more than I did. 

The Sheikh's Instant Family is a story with good characters. I did not connect with it was much as I had hoped, but it was still a solid story.

Early Book Review: Animals Reviewed: Starred Ratings of Our Feathered, Finned, and Furry Friends by Association of Zoos and Aquariums

Animals Reviewed: Starred Ratings of Our Feathered, Finned, and Furry Friends by Association of Zoos and Aquariums is currently scheduled for release on October 29 2019. Launched by the Oregon Zoo and quickly picked up by zoos, aquariums, scientists, and the funny people of Twitter, #rateaspecies is a global, viral hit, and a chance for people to honestly—and hilariously—review the animal kingdom. This book has crowd-sourced 150 of the best entries, the majority of which are new to the book, from their 233-member zoos and aquariums. Packed with adorable photos of every animal and laced with wit and humor, Animals Reviewed is the perfect gift or self-purchase for animal lovers of all ages.

Animals Reviewed is a fun book that collects the rated reviews of various zoo animals. I liked that the jokes often included information about the animal, such as remarks about its limited availability or the place where it is made disappearing. These reminders about pending extinction and habitat destruction are funny, but reminding people so that they can join the efforts to stop such tragedy is important. I also learned about some animals I never heard of or saw in a zoo or even documentary before. I like that there was such a balance of giggles and information throughout the book, and that there was such a wide variety of creatures. I think animal lovers of all ages will enjoy this- and I think those that work with animals would particularly enjoy this as a gift.

Early Book Review: Can't Judge a Book By Its Murder (Main Street Book Club) by Amy Lillard

Can't Judge a Book By Its Murder is the first book in the Main Street Book Club series by Amy Lillard. It is currently scheduled for release on October 29 2019. 

As Sugar Springs gears up for its all-class high school reunion, Mississippi bookstore owner Arlo Stanley prepares to launch her largest event: a book-signing with the town’s legendary alum and bestselling author, Wally Harrison. That’s when Wally is discovered dead outside of Arlo’s front door and her best friend is questioned for the crime. When the elderly ladies of Arlo’s Friday Night Book Club start to investigate, Arlo has no choice but to follow behind to keep them out of trouble. Yet with Wally’s reputation, the suspect list only grows longer—his betrayed wife, his disgruntled assistant, even the local man who holds a grudge from a long-ago accident. Between running interference with the book club and otherwise keeping it all together, Arlo anxiously works to get Chloe out of jail. And amidst it all, her one-time boyfriend-turned-private-eye returns to town, just another distraction while she digs to uncover the truth around Wally’s death and just what Sugar Springs secret could have led to his murder.

Can't Judge a Book By Its Murder is a murder mystery that had a lot going on. Arlo joined the town community in high school, so knows all the major players but still feels a bit like an outsider. She has some serious history with the town, and is smart enough to understand what she does not know and who to ask for help.Her loyalty to Chloe and navigating of small town relationships was well done. Her book club group has just the right mixture of spunk and compassion to keep things on track, and interesting.I could have done just fine without the set of for possible future romantic interests for Arlo, but that was better handled that I feared when I saw it start develop. I did enjoy the complexity of the actual mystery- and how every time I thought I had it a new twist or idea would pop up and make me question myself a little more. There was an awful lot to unpack in Wally's personal life- and I feel like while we got to the bottom of the important parts there was likely even more in the author's headcanon about what he was up to when out of his wife's sight. I liked the secondary characters, and thought that the small town was well developed- maybe too well developed with the amount of other important information.  I have to admit that I had trouble getting into this one, and after putting it down for things like cooking meals I had to remind myself to pick it up rather than being eager to. Part of this could be because of the amount of background information that was needed to start of a small town mystery series, and that did fade a bit as the story progressed, but not as much as I hoped. 

Can't Judge a Book By Its Murder is a small town murder mystery with plenty of twists and turns. It kept me guessing through the entire read. 

Book Review: The Great Shark Rescue: Saving the Whale Sharks by Sandra Markle

The Great Shark Rescue: Saving the Whale Sharks by Sandra Markle is the story of whale sharks—the largest fish on the planet. Facing threats from commercial fishing as well as climate change, they were categorized as endangered in 2016. Find out how scientists are working to study and protect these gentle giants of the ocean.

The Great Shark Rescue is another great book about animal mysteries by Markle. I enjoyed learning about the whale shark, and found it sad but interesting to learn about the danger they are in. There are still so many unanswered questions, but I am glad to know there are dedicated scientists using a variety of tools and technology to learn more and make a difference.The photographs and maps really brought the facts to life, and made the book come together. I like that Markle took the time to mention great white sharks and the sheer number of vulnerable or endangered species of sharks. The timeline, glossary, source notes, and recommendations for further reading make me happy (as always). Properly citing sources and encouraging further learning and reading are so important, and I find them sadly lacking in other children's nonfiction sometimes.

The Great Shark Rescue is an interesting and engaging read for children and adults interested in sharks, endangered animals, animal research, and related topics. Maybe it will inspire some more animal activists and/or researchers. It would be a great addition to school and public libraries. 

Early Book Review: True Grit: American Prints from 1900 to 1950 by Stephanie Schrader, James Glisson, Alexander Nemerov

True Grit: American Prints from 1900 to 1950 by Stephanie Schrader, James Glisson and Alexander Nemerov is being published to accompany an exhibition on view at the J. Paul Getty Museum at the Getty Center October 15, 2019, to January 19, 2020. It is currently set for release on October 22 2019.

In the first half of the twentieth century, a group of American artists influenced by the painter and teacher Robert Henri aimed to reject the pretenses of academic fine art and polite society. Embracing the democratic inclusiveness of the Progressive movement, these artists turned to making prints, which were relatively inexpensive to produce and easy to distribute. For their subject matter, the artists mined the bustling activity and stark realities of the urban centers in which they lived and worked. Their prints feature sublime towering skyscrapers and stifling city streets, jazzy dance halls and bleak tenement interiors—intimate and anonymous everyday scenes that addressed modern life in America. This exhibition and book examines a rich selection of prints by well-known figures like George Bellows, Edward Hopper, Joseph Pennell, and John Sloan as well as lesser-known artists such as Ida Abelman, Peggy Bacon, Miguel Covarrubias, and Mabel Dwight. It is written by three scholars of printmaking and American art, the essays present nuanced discussions of gender, class, literature, and politics, contextualizing the prints in the rapidly changing milieu of the first decades of twentieth-century America.

True Grit is an interesting read. Art history and interpretation is not my field of study, or even a hobby, but I love exploring new things. This book definitely fits that. I really enjoyed getting to look at works I had never seen before, and learning about the history and ideas involved in the artwork and the times. I will admit that some of the text was about something I have never really studied before, and I found it interesting but not something I will continue to research and explore. The art itself was the star for me, and why I actually requested the book to be honest. I think the essays were well written and researched. I found the information and ideas to be interesting and think that art buffs, artists, and those in the closest related fields will definitely get more out of this than I, but I am still very glad that I took a step out of my comfort zone and had the chance to look at some art I have never seen, and learn something at the same time.