Book Review - The Turn of the Key by Ruth Ware

 

 Rowan Caine was looking for something online when she stumbles across her dream job. The job seems like the perfect opportunity for her. The job is a live-in nanny with a generous salary. When Rowan is invited to interview at the Heatherbrae House, she is smitten with the luxurious smart house. The house is situated in the Scottish Highlands and it is fitted with all modern conveniences.

Rowan believes her luck has finally turned around when she gets the job. However, she doesn't realize the dangers she unleashed on herself when she takes the job -- a child is dead and she is accused of murder.

The story unfolds as Rowan is writing to her solicitor from prison. She tries to explain the situation that leads up to her predicament. She explains that she was constantly under surveillance with the cameras in the house along with the constant malfunctioning technology. She felt she was constantly tired because the speakers will malfunction and wake her up in the middle of the night.  The girls that Rowan was contracted to babysit turns out to behave badly and Rowan struggles to maintain control with them. She was told that one parent would always be home to help but, Rowan has been left days on end by herself with the kids. Rowan knows she made mistakes but, she isn't capable of murder and the real killer is out there.

The novel did move very slowly in the beginning. The book was exciting and kept me on edge but, I can't say that I was in love with the ending. I felt like it was a cop-out. I felt like a lot of details were spent talking about the house or how Rowan was struggling with the kids than building the story. However, I would still read her other books in hopes that they are better than this one.

**Disclosure -  This post may contain affiliate links which means I earn advertising and/or referral fees if you purchase an item through my link. Please note, there will be no extra charges to you. Thank you for your support.**

Book Review - Don't Look for Me by Wendy Walker

 

 Molly Clarke disappeared during a storm.  Her car was found abandoned and out of gas near the highway. They found a note at a nearby hotel saying she is "walking away". Her family is shattered that Molly has abandoned them.

When Molly ran out of gas, a man and a young girl offered her a ride to safety. However, when the door automatically locked behind her, Molly has a feeling she made a terrible mistake.

 A woman comes forward with a new lead on Molly's disappearance. Nicole, Molly's daughter returns to the small, desolate town where her mother was last seen. Everyone is eager to help and have bits of information to share. Except it seems that everyone has their own motivates and secrets that they are keeping. Will Molly be able to find her mother?

The the book was a quick and interesting read. I was able to predict who the kidnapper was but, the ending was unexpected. I am not really sure I was a fan of the ending. It felt a little unbelievable. However, I am still open to reading other books by the author.

**Disclosure -  This post may contain affiliate links which means I earn advertising and/or referral fees if you purchase an item through my link. Please note, there will be no extra charges to you. Thank you for your support.**

Book Review - Catfishing on CatNet by Naomi Kritzer + Giveaway

 

 Steph and her mom are always on the move. They never lived anywhere for longer than six months. Her only friends are the ones from the online community called CatNet. CatNet is a social media website that allows users to share cat photos and connect with other people like her. Steph doesn't know that the site's admin, CheshireCat is a sentient A.I. When Steph's past catches up to her, she will need to rely on people she can trust even if it means endangering them.

I thought the book was an interesting read with a few surprises. I liked how Steph's friends rallied behind her and tried to help. I enjoyed reading the portions that were narrated by the A.I. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series as there were a few unresolved threads left.

 **Disclosure - I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion. This post may contain affiliate links which means I earn advertising and/or referral fees if you purchase an item through my link. Please note, there will be no extra charges to you. Thank you for your support.**

 

Hardcover : 304 pages
ISBN-10 : 1250165083
ISBN-13 : 978-1250165084
Item Weight : 13 ounces
Publisher : Tor Teen (November 19, 2019)
Language: : English

Praise for CATFISHING ON CATNET

“The characters offer positive, realistic LGBTQIA+ representation―especially nonbinary identities and characters still exploring their identities. Refreshingly, the characters also feel like generally-woke-but-still-imperfect humans. Wickedly funny and thrilling in turns; perfect for readers coming-of-age online.” ―Kirkus, starred review

“Kritzer’s take on a benevolent AI is both whimsical and poignant. An entertaining, heart-filled exploration of today’s online existence and privacy concerns.” ―Publishers Weekly, starred review

“Smart, sly, scary, and irrepressibly good fun, this novel has everything I’ve ever wanted from a story: it is a cerebral, funny, tender, big-idea delight. I can’t wait for you to read it.”―Kelly Barnhill, Newbery Award-winning author of The Girl Who Drank the Moon

"An absolutely charming and incredibly gripping, superbly plotted YA thriller." ―Cory Doctorow, New York Times bestselling author of Little Brother

“Kritzer’s flawless collection taps deep wells of emotion and wonder…. Her work is indisputably speculative, but it’s a perfect entry point to the genre for readers who prefer fantastical and futuristic elements to stay more in the background, with human (and robotic) feelings always at the fore. This splendid treat is not to be missed.” ―Publishers Weekly, starred review, on Cat Pictures Please and Other Stories 

How much does the internet know about YOU?

Because her mom is always on the move, Steph hasn’t lived anyplace longer than six months. Her only constant is an online community called CatNet—a social media site where users upload cat pictures—a place she knows she is welcome. What Steph doesn’t know is that the admin of the site, CheshireCat, is a sentient A.I.

When a threat from Steph’s past catches up to her and ChesireCat’s existence is discovered by outsiders, it’s up to Steph and her friends, both online and IRL, to save her.

You can purchase Catfishing on CatNet at the following Retailers:

        

Photo Credit: Sean M. Murphy/SMM Photography

NAOMI KRITZER has been making friends online since her teens, when she had to use a modem to dial up at 2400 baud. She is a writer and blogger who has published a number of short stories and novels for adults, including the Eliana's Song duology and the Dead Rivers Trilogy. Her 2015 short story “Cat Pictures Please” won the Hugo Award and Locus Award and was a finalist for the Nebula. Naomi lives in St. Paul, Minnesota, with her family and four cats. The number of cats is subject to change without notice.

Edgar Allan Poe Award Winner

        

WEEK ONE - REVIEW AND EXCERPTS

NOVEMBER 16th MONDAY JeanBookNerd INTERVIEW

NOVEMBER 17th TUESDAY Movies, Shows, & Books EXCERPT 

NOVEMBER 18th WEDNESDAY Books and Zebras REVIEW 

NOVEMBER 19th THURSDAY BookHounds YA REVIEW 

NOVEMBER 19th THURSDAY TTC Books and More EXCERPT 

NOVEMBER 20th FRIDAY Kait Plus Books REVIEW & EXCERPT 

WEEK TWO - REVIEWS

NOVEMBER 23rd MONDAY Ya It's Lit REVIEW

NOVEMBER 24th TUESDAY A Court of Coffee and Books REVIEW 

NOVEMBER 25th WEDNESDAY Two Pints of Interest REVIEW

NOVEMBER 26th THURSDAY Metaphors and Miscellanea REVIEW

NOVEMBER 26th THURSDAY Belle's Archive REVIEW 

NOVEMBER 27th FRIDAY Nay's Pink Bookshelf REVIEW

*JBN is not responsible for Lost or Damaged Books in your Nerdy Mail Box*

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Book Review - The Forgotten Daughter by Joanna Goodman

 

In 1992, some of the French-Canadian people are fighting for Quebec's independence. Véronique Fortin is the daughter of a famous radical separatist who was convicted of kidnapping and murdering a politician in 1970.  She believes in her father's cause of Quebec being separate from Canada. It is surprising when she falls for James Phénix, a journalist of French-Canadian descent who opposes Quebec separatism. Their relationship is turbulent and passionate as they try to navigate their relationship.

Elodie Phénix is James's older sister and one of the Duplessis Orphans. She becomes involved in a lawsuit against the church, government, and the medical officials who branded her mentally incapable as an orphan. During the 1950s, Quebec's orphanages were converted to mental hospitals to get more money for the government. This led to children being misdiagnosed.

Elodie relies on Véronique as Elodie struggles to get recognition for the childhood trauma she faced. During the lawsuit ordeal, Elodie is forced to come to terms with her feelings. Will Elodie and Véronique be able to move on from their past?

I thought the book was an interesting read. I felt like it was a bit slow for some parts of the novel. The story showed characters learning to forgive and love each other. This wasn't a book I would normally pick to read but, I am glad that I did read it. I am looking forward to reading other books by the author.

  **Disclosure - I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion. This post may contain affiliate links which means I earn advertising and/or referral fees if you purchase an item through my link. Please note, there will be no extra charges to you. Thank you for your support.**

Book Review - The Sound of Falling Leaves by Lisa Cox Carter

 

Tessa survived a devastating fire that caused her to lose her voice. She retreats to her aunt's apple orchard to heal. She still wants to keep music in her life but, she is struggling after the fire. Tessa decides that she will research and collect folk ballads.  While researching folk ballads she discovers a connection between a murder and a woman who disappeared. Tessa gets a first-hand experience behind the corrupt politicians in the isolated Appalachian community. She has a hard time finding someone to trust.

Tessa finds herself drawn to Zeke. He is the quiet and mysterious caretaker. He tries to show her that mountain justice is neither impartial nor just. Tessa is unsure if she can trust him but, she finds herself drawn to him.

I was very torn reading this novel. There were some moments where I enjoyed reading the characters and then other times, it was like the character snapped. For example, Zeke got annoyed that Tessa was "obsessively" looking for a certain singer when Zeke was doing the same thing. I found the book to be slow during some parts but, it had a few twists. One thing I really didn't like is that on the cover of my copy, Zeke was colored in to appear darker as he is of mixed descent. I am not sure why they just didn't find someone of tan skin instead of coloring in the person's face.

  **Disclosure - I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion. This post may contain affiliate links which means I earn advertising and/or referral fees if you purchase an item through my link. Please note, there will be no extra charges to you. Thank you for your support.**

Book Review - Brother's Keeper by Julie Lee + Giveaway

Photo Source - Amazon

In 1950 in North Korea, twelve-year-old Sora and her family are living under a regime with harsh rules. They need permits to travel,  no criticizing the government, they must attend all Communist meetings and wear red. The people are afraid to speak their minds and don't trust their neighbors.

The war between North and South Korea is causing chaos. The people are using it as a chance to escape. Sora and her family walk hundreds of miles to get the city of Busan in South Korea from their tiny mountain village. They will just need to avoid frostbite, bombs,  hunger, border guards, enemy soldiers, and many other obstacles. 

When the bombing becomes more than the family can bear, Sora and her younger brother, Young has to get to Busan on their own. Will they be able to survive the journey by themselves?

The novel was a heart-wrenching and emotional read. I felt for Sora as we have similar cultural values to treat girls/women as disposable. I wish this horrible trend would end because every single life regardless of gender should have value and be treated as equals. I enjoyed reading about Sora's journey and how she learned to stick up for herself. The book is a great read for children and adults alike.

**Disclosure - I received a free unedited copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion. This post may contain affiliate links which means I earn advertising and/or referral fees if you purchase an item through my link. Please note, there will be no extra charges to you. Thank you for your support.**

About the Book:

Title: BROTHER'S KEEPER

Author: Julie Lee

Pub. Date: July 21, 2020

Publisher: Holiday House

Formats: Hardcover, eBook, Audiobook

Pages: 304

Find it: Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, Audible, B&N, iBooks, Kobo, TBD, Bookshop.org

Can two children escape North Korea on their own?

North Korea. December, 1950.

Twelve-year-old Sora and her family live under an iron set of rules: No travel without a permit. No criticism of the government. No absences from Communist meetings. Wear red. Hang pictures of the Great Leader. Don't trust your neighbors. Don't speak your mind. You are being watched.

But war is coming, war between North and South Korea, between the Soviets and the Americans. War causes chaos--and war is the perfect time to escape. The plan is simple: Sora and her family will walk hundreds of miles to the South Korean city of Busan from their tiny mountain village. They just need to avoid napalm, frostbite, border guards, and enemy soldiers.

But they can't. And when an incendiary bombing changes everything, Sora and her little brother Young will have to get to Busan on their own. Can a twelve-year-old girl and her eight-year-old brother survive three hundred miles of warzone in winter?

Haunting, timely, and beautiful, this harrowing novel from a searing new talent offers readers a glimpse into a vanished time and a closed nation.

A Junior Library Guild Selection

About Julie: 

Julie Lee graduated from Cornell University with a degree in history. After working in market research in Manhattan for over ten years, she decided to pursue writing full-time. Currently, Julie lives in Georgia with her husband and three children. When she is not spending time with her family, she is working on her next book while pursuing an MFA in Writing for Children and Young Adults at the Vermont College of Fine Arts. Brother's Keeper is her debut novel.

Website | Twitter | Facebook |  Goodreads 

Giveaway Details:

3 winners will receive a finished copy of BROTHER'S KEEPER, US Only.

Rafflecopter Link:

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/e2389ba21135/?

Tour Schedule:

Week Two:

8/31/2020	Debjani's Thoughts	Review
8/31/2020	Miss Elizabeth	Review
9/1/2020	Karma Readz Kidz Bookz	Review
9/1/2020	Her Book Thoughts	Review
9/1/2020	Her Book Thoughts	Instagram Post
9/2/2020	History from a Woman’s Perspective	Review
9/2/2020	Twirling Book Princess	Excerpt
9/3/2020	The Writer’s Alley	Review
9/3/2020	The Writer’s Alley	Instagram Post
9/4/2020	Two Points of interest	Review
9/4/2020	Fyrekatz Blog	Review
9/4/2020	Jaime's World	Excerpt

Book Review - The Suicide House by Charlie Donlea

Photo Credit - Amazon

Indiana's elite Westmont Preparatory High School is well known for its strict rules and high expectations. Students are expected to follow their highly enforced rules. However, behind the campus is an abandoned house in the woods that is a late-night hangout for students. At the abandoned house, the students play a game called "Man in the Mirror" and they have one rule: don't let your candle go out.

One year ago, two students were brutally murdered one night. The case became well known and became the focus of a hit podcast, The Suicide House. While a teacher was convicted of the murders, there are still many mysteries and questions surrounding the case. One chilling mystery is why the survivors of the horrible night all return to the boarding house to kill themselves.

Rory is an expert at finding clues on cold cases. She is working with her partner, Lane to solve the mystery behind the murders. They try to recreate the night to find answers that were missed.  As they begin to dig into the case, they discover dark secrets and someone willing to stop at nothing to get what they want.

This was my first book by the author and I am hooked. I already added his other books to my reading pile. The novel was thrilling and kept me entertained until the end. I wasn't a fan of the writing style though. I am guessing the author formatted the chapter to feel like short bursts but, it felt annoying after awhile. Overall, I loved the book and can't wait to read more by the author.

**Disclosure - I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion. This post may contain affiliate links which means I earn advertising and/or referral fees if you purchase an item through my link. Please note, there will be no extra charges to you. Thank you for your support.**

Book Review - The Talented Miss Farwell by Emily Gray Tedrowe

Photo Credit - Amazon

In the late 1990s, Miss Rebecca Farwell made a killing at Christie's in New York City, right when the art market finally recovered. Reba is dressed to impressed with couture YSL and drinking only the finest champagne at trendy restaurants. She is a model of a wealthy art collector. Reba has many different personas, to some she is a ruthless businesswoman and to others, she is only interested in art because of how much money she can make.

In the small town of Pierson, Illinois, Miss Farwell is known as someone totally different. She is known as Becky, a single woman who works tirelessly for her town as the town's comptroller.  She still lives at her childhood home and wears sensible clothing and shoes. Becky is the only one in the town who understands all the ins and outs of Pierson's accounts. She is the last one in the office and the first one in the office crunching the numbers. The town is always in awe at her ability to find money when they need it most. However, no one knows that she "borrows" funds from the town's account to fund her art habit. She tries to repay the money when she can but, the art business is very cutthroat and unpredictable.

The premise of the novel sounds interesting but, I am not sure how this book is classified as a thriller. There are only two possible outcomes and there are no surprise twists. I felt like the whole novel was rather pointless and there was no "purpose" to this novel. I had a hard time understanding and liking Becky and her addiction to collecting art. I felt like she was buying and selling art to feel in control and have money but, then she did some weird things. For example, she ruined expensive brand name bags and donated expensive shoes with the tags on. I would think someone who is literally killing themselves with their compulsive behavior of stealing would take better care of their things. I felt like there wasn't enough time explaining Becky's motives and personality.

**Disclosure -  This post may contain affiliate links which means I earn advertising and/or referral fees if you purchase an item through my link. Please note, there will be no extra charges to you. Thank you for your support.**

Book Review - The Half Sister by Sandie Jones

Photo Credit - Amazon

Kate and Lauren are sisters who were never really close. They meet for lunch every Sunday at their parents' home. Since, their father passing, their family gathering never really felt the same. However, their lives get turned upside down one day when there is a knock at their door. A young woman named, Jess tells Kate and Lauren that she is their half-sister. She even has the DNA test to prove it. As Kate starts digging into Jess's story, she realizes that they are all hiding secrets.

I have all of the author's novels and have enjoyed them. However, I am stuck between liking this novel and it being "meh". Towards the end of the novel, it seems like one of the characters just breaks and spirals out of control when she seems to have planned things out. The novel was a quick and thrilling read but, I didn't find myself really connecting to any of the characters. The majority of the book was predictable but, it was an entertaining read.

**Disclosure - I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion. This post may contain affiliate links which means I earn advertising and/or referral fees if you purchase an item through my link. Please note, there will be no extra charges to you. Thank you for your support.**