Book Review: The Dating Playbook by Farrah Rochon

The Dating Playbook by Farrah Rochon is a contemporary romance. When it comes to personal training, Taylor Powell kicks serious butt. Unfortunately, her bills are piling up, rent is due, and the money situation is dire. Taylor needs more than the support of her new best friends, Samiah and London. She needs a miracle. And Jamar Dixon might just be it. The oh-so-fine former footballer wants back into the NFL, and he wants Taylor to train him. There's just one catch -- no one can know what they're doing. But when they're accidentally outed as a couple, Taylor's game plan is turned completely upside down. Is Jamar just playing to win or is he playing for keeps?

I absolutely adored the last book I read from Rochon, so I have no idea why it took me so long to read The Dating Playbook. It is another great book, and I look forward to giving it a second read. I love the set up for the series, and the friendlies and support between Taylor, Samiah, and London always makes me happy. Taylor is at the end of her rope and doing the best she can to stay afloat. Jamar is desperate to save his football career, and working with Taylor seems like his best shot. I really enjoyed the honesty between the pair about their attraction between them, and why it is not a good idea to go from fake dating to real dating. The conflicts and stumbling blocks felt every real, and I could empathize and relate to many aspects and could understand where they stood even when I could not relate. I thought the internal battles they each needed to face were realistic and I enjoyed their banter and they way they worked toward a better future, even when things were hard and they thought they would be alone. They each grew as people, and were not only better because of the relationship. I really love when a romance takes every character on a growth journey rather than attaching all good things to the state of the couple. I cannot wait for more from Rochon. 

 

The Dating Playbook is a fantastic read on several levels. This author is now on my must read list, and I am eager to see what they do next.

Audiobook Review: You May Kiss the Groomsman (Meet me at the Altar) by Samantha Chase, Narrated by Avery Reid

You May Kiss the Groomsman is the third book in the Meet me at the Altar by Samantha Chase, but can be read and enjoyed on its own. The audiobook is narrated by Avery Reid.

When Josie Sullivan agrees to marry her friend Tyler, it’s just so he’ll get a promotion at work. That’s what friends do, right? But what should have been a quick, quiet affair starts to look like the real thing when his family shows up in the middle of the “proposal.” Now, it’s no longer a quick stop at the courthouse during a lunch break but a full-blown wedding, and there’s nothing Josie can do to stop it. Daniel Alexander hasn’t been home in years. After fifteen years as a Navy SEAL, he’s more than ready to return to civilian life. Being away for so long, he’s missed a lot of his younger brother’s life, and it seems like he’s back just in time to stop him from making the biggest mistake of his life. No matter how he breaks it down, something’s just not adding up about this wedding, and he’s determined to figure out why. And he’s not just trying to stop it from happening because he’s finding himself wildly attracted to the bride-to-be. Josie had given up on finding her own happily ever after, and as her attraction to Daniel keeps growing, she’s suddenly regretting her decision to help out a friend. Now she just needs to decide if she wants to kiss the groom…or the groomsman.

You May Kiss the Groomsman is a romance with plenty of feels and ethical dilemmas. Josie is starting to feel left behind as those around her find their happy ever afters, and wants one of her own. However, a marriage of convenience seems her best option until a chance meeting- and then things really get complicated for her. I have to say, that while I empathized with Josie as someone that tends to go too far in helping friends and family without  considering what I want, there was more than one occasion that my frustration with her overwhelmed my concern and hope. I started dreading what would happen next. I really hated Tyler for most of the book. However, I really enjoyed Daniel's character and thought even when he was in the wrong that he was doing the best he could and owned up to his mistakes and took steps to do better. I liked the idea of the book, and I liked the secondary characters and the banter between the main players. I thought the support and friendship through out the book for everyone involved was wonderful. I think the book has a great deal going for it, however my frustration with Josie just made it hard for me to fully engage with the read. I think it will be a great read for many, but it fell a little flat for me. 

You May Kiss the Groomsman is a romance that fans of the author, and particularly this series, will want to read.

Early Book Review: The Strangest Thing in the Sea: And Other Curious Creatures of the Deep by Rachel Poliquin, Byron Eggenschwiler

The Strangest Thing in the Sea: And Other Curious Creatures of the Deep, written by Rachel Poliquin and illustrated by Byron Eggenschwiler,  is a children's nonfiction book currently scheduled for release on October 5 2021. A look at some very strange creatures in the sea --- but which is the strangest? A feathery tutu dancing through the water? A tiptoeing rock wearing a wig? A mountain of skulls on the ocean floor? Not everything is quite as it seems in this fascinating exploration of 12 bizarre and little-known sea animals. Each creature is introduced with an imaginative first-person depiction of its appearance, accompanied by an artistic interpretation and the question, “Am I the strangest thing in the sea?” Then, open the gatefold, and an illustration and full description of the actual creature in its habitat are revealed, along with the tantalizing answer that, no, this is not the strangest thing in the sea. That is, until the last creature, which is the strangest. But what could it be?

I enjoyed The Strangest Thing in the Sea very much. I thought the artwork matched the text very well, and the detail and imagination on each page showed great skill. I thought the use of gatefolds was a good choice, and the execution was on point. The page layout, and book organization as a whole, was very good. I enjoyed the balance of whimsy in the imagined version oft he creatures balanced with solid information.  I have to admit that I was already very familiar with most of the animals featured, but I think the approach and chosen information was great.I really liked that a glossary and chart showing the different zones of the sea and where the featured animals live were included.  I learned a few new things, and I think readers of a variety of ages will be highly engaged and interested in this book. 

Book Review: In the Clear Moonlit Dusk, Volume 1, by Mika Yamamori

In the Clear Moonlit Dusk, Volume 1, by Mika Yamamori is a manga style graphic novel. Yoi Takiguchi has long legs, a deep voice, and a handsome face. In other words, Yoi is such a good-looking guy that most people don't notice or care that she is, in fact, a girl. Indeed, she's had the nickname "Prince" as long as she can remember. That is, until she met Ichimura-senpai, the only person who's really seemed to see her for herself. To her surprise, she's not sure how to handle this new relationship, especially when her newfound friend is a prince himself (and a guy prince, at that). The story of the two high school princes starts here!

In the Clear Moonlit Dusk is a well written and drawn graphic novel. I liked that even though Yoi is cast as a prince, she really does not do anything that marks her as different or masculine. People are just judging her on looks and how she carries herself rather than any actual 'I'm different from other girls' action. She is just trying to get through life being successful in school and with her family's restaurant. Because oft his she has no dating experience and has no idea how to react to Ichimura- which most awkward teens and adult can relate to. Many of us have trouble with compliments and whatnot, which makes the whole awkward dance between the two so relatable and fun. I would have liked a little more of them developing a friendship, or more interaction with friend groups, but I think that the book did give enough that will keep many readers interested and looking for the next volume.  

Book Review: Beer Pairing: The Essential Guide from the Pairing Pros by Julia Herz; Gwen Conley

Beer Pairing: The Essential Guide from the Pairing Pros by Julia Herz; Gwen Conley is a resource to guide both beginners and beer geeks in pairing beer with food. As you start your journey you’ll learn how aroma, taste, preference, and personal experience can affect flavor. Just as important, you’ll become a tasting Anarchist—throw out the conventional advice and figure out what works for you! Begin with beer styles, start with your favorite foods, or join the authors on a series of wild palate trips. From classics like barbecue ribs with American Brown Ale to unusual matches like pineapple upside-down cake with Double India Pale Ale, you’ll learn why some pairings stand the test of time and you’ll find plenty of new ideas as well. Discover: How we experience flavor and the science and anatomy behind it and how to taste beer, step by step, with pouring and glassware tips. Discover pairings by beer style and specific foods,  information for planning beer dinners, how to work beer into your cooking repertoire, ad tips and stories from pro brewers. Geek Out science features with facts to impress your friends Never look at beer—or food—the same way again!

Beer Pairing is a great resource for beer beginners, those that regularly enjoy beer, and those looking to elevate their beer experiences in the future. I think the book does a good job of explaining the complexities of beer itself, and the intricacies of tastes and pairings. The awareness that the aspects of the food, beer, and the palate of each taster each have their role to play- and that just because something works for others you might vary- is pointed out and there is no shamed leveled at those that might not like something just because it is deemed popular. I thought the book was well organized, and the explanations and examples were well done and accessible to novices and beer experts alike. There was detailed analysis of just about everything involved on the subject, and some people might be overwhelmed by the amount of ground covered, but the use of well chosen images and sections by experienced beer individuals break up what might otherwise to too dense to enjoy. I also liked that the authors included detailed citation documentation, which makes further reading much easier for those looking for more. The index also makes it easier for those looking for information on a singular type of beer or food to pair. 

Beer Pairing is a comprehensive and valuable resource for anyone that wants to know more about beer, and how to match the perfect beer and food to match your mood and palate.

Book Review: Once Ghosted, Twice Shy (Ghosted Cozy Mysteries, #1) by Jessica Arden

Once Ghosted, Twice Shy is the first book in the Ghosted Cozy Mystery series by Jessica Arden. New Orleans ghost tour gift shop manager, Paige Harrington makes a wish for her twenty-fifth birthday: to find the one thing she can be as passionate about as her cancer researcher parents. She doesn’t, however, expect her calling to come in the form of a mysterious app on her phone that matches her up with the ghost of a cute bartender who wants her to solve his murder. Nor for her pet hedgehog, Auguste, to start talking to her with a French accent. When her favorite professor turned cafe owner, Liz Pickett is framed for the murder, Paige can’t sit by and let all of this happen. Even if uncovering the truth means tangling with the Enclave, a secret society with the power and connections to make someone like her asking too many questions disappear without a trace. With the Enclave and their dark secrets dogging at her heels, Paige will have to step up her sleuthing skills and unmask the real killer before she ends up their next victim.

Once Ghosted, Twice Shy is a book that felt like a cozy mystery, but it had some very dark moments. I liked Paige's search for her calling, and the supportive circle of friends. I liked the secondary characters and thought some of the connections and banter were great. Sometimes there were connections that felt like they would lead to something in this case, or future installments but others felt like there might have been a prequel or related series that went into things with more detail. I really liked the ghost elements, and the talking hedgehog. I thought the humor and conversations between friends and main characters were the best parts of the book. I did think that the mystery part was well done, and there were some good twists and turns. However, there were parts that did not seem connected to the larger story and left me with new questions that I do not think I will ever get answers to. I liked the read, and so much of it worked for me, but I felt like the balance of dark and humor was a little off for my personal tastes.

Once Ghosted, Twice Shy is a good read with plenty of humor and a fair amount of dark and dangerous. 

Audiobook Review: Bees and Their Keepers by Lotte Möller, Narrated by Julie Maisey

Bees and Their Keepers is a non fiction book written by Lotte Möller, and the audiobook is narrated by Julie Maisey. The study of bees has often been considered a divine occupation, as the creature’s attention to detail and purpose is so special and the honey they produce, almost magical. In this compelling cultural history that moves beautifully through the beekeeper’s year, Swedish beekeeper and writer Lotte Möller shares her understanding of bees and bee lore from antiquity to the present with deep knowledge and sharp wit. Möller gives insight into the activity in the hive and describes the bees’ natural order and habits. She explores the myths of the past and how and when they were replaced by fact. In stories from her travels, Möller encounters a host of colorful characters, from a trigger-happy California beekeeper raging against both killer bees and bee politics to the legendary Brother Adam of Buckfast Abbey, breeder of the Buckfast queen, now popular throughout Europe and beyond, as well a host of others as passionate as she about the complex world of apiculture both past and present.

Bees and Their Keepers is an interesting book. I learned a great deal, and thought  the stories and information shared where engaging. I have several books about bees, in particular their current plight with pesticides and other dangers they are facing. Getting a look at how people have interacted with bees through out history, both distant and more recently, has given me a more well-rounded appreciation for honey and the work that goes into beekeeping. I liked that moments from the author's adventures in researching the topic, personal explorations, and own beekeeping were included. All of the individual components were informative and interesting to listen to on my commutes back and forth to work. However, I have to admit that sometimes the topic changes or asides to give more information on a very specific topic or adventure caught me off guard and it took me a bit to switch gears. It just felt a little disjointed at times. Similarly, the end rather snuck up on me. That is not likely to happen to those reading a print copy, but in the audiobook version I was listening and expecting more on a topic, or another topic change, and then suddenly I was listening to the copyright information. It just felt a bit abrupt to me.  

Bees and Their Keepers is and interesting look at the history and world of beekeeping. 

Early Book Review: Garlic and the Vampire by Bree Paulsen

Garlic and the Vampire by Bree Paulsen is a graphic novel currently scheduled for release on September 28 2021. Garlic feels as though she’s always doing something wrong. At least with her friend Carrot by her side and the kindly Witch Agnes encouraging her, Garlic is happy to just tend her garden, where it’s nice and safe. But when her village of vegetable folk learns that a bloodthirsty vampire has moved into the nearby castle, they all agree that, in spite of her fear and self-doubt, Garlic is the obvious choice to confront him. And with everyone counting on her, Garlic reluctantly agrees to face the mysterious vampire, hoping she has what it takes. After all, garlic drives away vampires…right?

Garlic and the Vampire is a great graphic novel for young readers. Garlic is a little anxious about what other people think of them, about being late, about disappointing others, and accidentally growing sentient garlic like themselves. You know, the normal stuff. I love that the main character is nervous and sweet- trying their best to do the right thing even when it is not easy for them. I liked the collection of living produce, and how their personalities are varied, just like people. Garlic, like it or not, faces their fears everyday- even when it means confronting a vampire. I think it is the very anxiety that keeps Garlic on her toes is what helps her stand up and do the right thing and face the possible outcomes. I thought the artwork was very well done, and matches the tone of the story very well, adding detail and depth to each page. 

I really enjoyed reading Garlic and the Vampire, and think it will be a favorite for many.  

Book Review: The Price of Silence (Winterfell Academy) by Elle Mae

The Price of Silence is the first book in the Winterfell Academy series by Elle Mae. I am Rosie Miller and at the age of ten, I was cursed. Because of my parents' debt, I was forced into silence and now every word, every laugh, was a weapon used against me. By nineteen I had come to understand that I would have no choice but to follow in my parents' footsteps. Get a soul-sucking job reserved for low-levels like me, keep my head down, and die alone. That was until I got a letter one day welcoming me to the most prestigious demon academy in the entire country. I knew that when I opened that letter, it was too good to be true. There was no way after thousands of years of separation between high-levels and low-levels that I would ever be given such a golden opportunity. Meeting them only proved my suspicions to be correct. A bloodthirsty gangster. A child of a high-ranking demon official with a penance for blackmail. And last but not least a witch who seems to be called by the power my curse exudes. Becoming tangled with them will probably be the most reckless thing that I have ever done in my life, but will it be worth finally breaking my curse after nine years? 

The Price of Silence is a reverse harem paranormal romance adventure. Fair warning, if you do not like that idea, then this book is not for you. This book contains graphic descriptions of violence, sexual situations, and dubious consent elements. Again, if none of that is your cup of tea then I recommend finding a different series to read.

The Price of Silence is a book that ran hot and cold for me. I liked all the individual elements, but am not sure I liked them together. Rosie is dealing with a lot, a curse that has made her life hell for years and getting sent to a elite college out of the blue surrounded by the rich and powerful is just the starting point. I liked her character development and the way the the school and group dynamics are handled. The added level of sexual tension and action was an interesting addition, and while well done and unique on a few levels I think it was unnecessary but entertaining. The levels of deceit, secrets, and mystery surrounding the curse and everyone's plans was complex, and at times a little frustrating. I saw some of it coming a mile away, and never really got resolution for other bits. Then the author leaves readers on a cliffhanger. I am intrigued by some of the connections and world building, and like the work on characters and their connections. However, I felt like the author was trying to do too many things all at once.  

The Price of Silence is a book with many great aspects and potential.

Audiobook Review: The Introvert's Guide to Online Dating by Emma Hart Narrated by Savannah Peachwood, Tim Page

The Introvert's Guide to Online Dating is a contemporary romance written by Emma Hart. The audiobook is narrated by Savannah Peachwood and Tim Page.  It is part of a series, but can be read on its own.

With all my best friends off the market, it’s time that I, Tori Sussex, join them. So where better to find my future husband than the internet? It’s great. I get to get all the awkward stuff out of the way and already know if I’m going to like the guy before we meet in person. It’s a shame nothing's ever that simple. My relationship with Colton Lane, my best friend’s brother, is the very definition of complicated—dirty little no-strings-attached hook-ups we’ve somehow managed to keep secret from all our friends for the past six months. We’re bound to get caught, and if I’m serious about dating, I only have one choice: call it quits; end our little covert booty calls for good; tell him my parking space is off-limits to him. It should be easy. It should be simple. And I’m sure it would be, if only I wasn’t in love with him.

The Introvert's Guide to Online Dating is a frenemies to lovers romance. I think the dual narrators was a nice touch, and I like the alternating perspectives. I liked Tori to an extent. I liked her sarcasm and sardonic moments, but her stubborness and faking being angry annoyed me a few times. I really liked Colton. Of the two characters I felt like he was more in touch with, and honest about, what he felt and wanted. I really enjoyed the secondary characters, and was highly entertain by their support and antics. I am not sure if it was because of the format, since I do not normally listen to romance audiobooks, or what but I did not really connect with Tori's character. I am much more interested in what is going on with her grandmother than the future between Tori and Colton- but that is more because I found the elderly characters in the book to be fantastic. Maybe returning readers will feel more of a connection, since the friend group is tightly bound. 

The Introvert's Guide to Online Dating is a fun and entertaining read, or listen.