Book Spotlight - Aru Shah and the City of Gold by Roshani Chokshi + Giveaway

 

About the Book:

Title: ARU SHAH AND THE CITY OF GOLD (A Pandava Novel Book 4)

Author: Roshani Chokshi

Pub. Date: April 6, 2021

Publisher: Rick Riordan Presents

Formats: Hardcover, eBook, audiobook

Pages: 400

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

Aru Shah and her sisters--including one who also claims to be the Sleeper's daughter--must find their mentors Hanuman and Urvashi in Lanka, the city of gold, before war breaks out between the devas and asuras.

Aru has just made a wish on the tree of wishes, but she can't remember what it was. She's pretty sure she didn't wish for a new sister, one who looks strangely familiar and claims to be the Sleeper's daughter, like her.

Aru also isn't sure she still wants to fight on behalf of the devas in the war against the Sleeper and his demon army. The gods have been too devious up to now. Case in point: Kubera, ruler of the city of gold, promises to give the Pandavas two powerful weapons, but only if they win his trials. If they lose, they won't stand a chance against the Sleeper's troops, which will soon march on Lanka to take over the Otherworld.

Aru's biggest question, though, is why every adult she has loved and trusted so far has failed her. Will she come to peace with what they've done before she has to wage the battle of her life?

 

PRAISE FOR ARU SHAH AND THE TREE OF WISHES

“Touching, riotously funny, and absolutely stunning.”--Kirkus

 

Praise for Aru Shah and the End of Time:

“An imaginative novel that puts girl power and diverse protagonists front and center.”

—Entertainment Weekly

 

“[An] engrossing adventure tale.”—Teen Vogue

 

“Roshani Chokshi spins a modern-day fairy tale that adults and children will love.”-Bustle

 

 

Grab the first 3 books in the series!

Aru Shah and the End of Time (A Pandava Novel Book 1)

Aru Shah and the Song of Death (A Pandava Novel Book 2)

Aru Shah and the Tree of Wishes (A Pandava Novel Book 3)

 

 

About Roshani:

Roshani Chokshi (www.roshanichokshi.com) is the author of the instant New York Times best-selling books in the Pandava series, Aru Shah and the End of Time, and its sequel, Aru Shah and the Song of Death. She also wrote the New York Times best-selling YA books The Star-Touched Queen and The Gilded Wolves. She studied fairy tales in college, and she has a pet luck dragon that looks suspiciously like a Great Pyrenees dog. The Pandava novels were inspired by the stories her grandmother told her as well as Roshani's all-consuming love for Sailor Moon. She lives in the south and says "y'all," but she doesn't really have a Southern accent. Her Twitter handle is @roshani_chokshi.

 

Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads | Amazon

 

Giveaway Details:

3 winners will receive a finished copy of ARU SHAH AND THE CITY OF GOLD, US Only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Tour Schedule:

Week One:

4/1/2021	A Dream Within A Dream	Excerpt/Spotlight
4/2/2021	Lisa-Queen of Random	Excerpt/Spotlight

Week Two:

4/5/2021	BookHounds Ya	Excerpt/Spotlight
4/6/2021	For the Love of KidLit	Excerpt/Spotlight
4/7/2021	Kait Plus Books	Review
4/8/2021	onemused	Spotlight
4/9/2021	Midnightbooklover	Review

Week Three:

4/12/2021	Emelie's Books	Review
4/13/2021	What A Nerd Girl Says	Review
4/14/2021	Little Red Reads	Review
4/15/2021	PopTheButterfly	Review
4/16/2021	Amani’s Reviews	Review

Week Four:

4/19/2021	Moonlight Rendezvous	Review
4/20/2021	booksaremagictoo	Review
4/21/2021	Feed Your Fiction Addiction	Review
4/22/2021	The Momma Spot	Review
4/23/2021	I'm Shelfish	Review

Week Five:

4/26/2021	Book Briefs	Review
4/27/2021	Confessions of a YA Reader	Review
4/28/2021	The Book Nut : A Book Lovers Guide	Review
4/29/2021	The Book Dutchesses	Review
4/30/2021	Two Points of interest	Review

Book Review - This Is How I Lied by Heather Gudenkauf

 

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Nearly twenty-five years ago, Eve Knox, a young sixteen-year-old is found dead in the caves near her home in Grotto, Iowa. Eve's body was discovered by her best friend, Maggie, and Eve's sister, Nola. The police have a handful of suspects including Eve's boyfriend, Nick, but they lack solid evidence to convict anyone. The case has gone cold for years until one eventful day.

Maggie has been haunted by Eve's death and finding her body. Maggie is now a detective and seven months pregnant when she is thrust back to that night when new evidence emerges. Maggie is assigned to the case when it is reopened. As she begins to investigate, she discovers that someone knows more than they are letting on and they will stop at nothing to keep the truth buried.

I was really torn while reading this book. I didn't care for any of the characters and I didn't find the plot to be believable. When reading the book, I had a hard time believing Maggie was a detective. There was an incident that happened to her and it was never explained who was behind it and the book just chalked it up as "we will never know".  And then one of her neighbors in the community, she knows they are a pedophile that targets young girls and she knows that people like that never change but, she does nothing to try and stop it. The novel moves very slowly until a "bombshell" is dropped but, even then it doesn't redeem this tedious book.

Book Review - The Doll Factory by Elizabeth Macneal

 

In London in 1850s, the Great Exhibition was being built in Hyde Park. The spectacle brings a huge crowd of people which causes two strangers to be meet by chance. Iris is an beautiful aspiring artist who doesn't think much of this fleeting moment. However, for Silas, a curious collector is enchanted by the meeting and intrigued by Iris.

Iris is asked to model for artist Louis Frost but, before she agrees she asked him to teach her to paint. Iris finds her world expanded beyond the doll shop she was working in. She loves everything the new creative world has offered to her but, she has no idea of the evil that is lurking in the shadows. Silas has been unable to stop thinking of anything other than Iris and his thoughts are turning darker.

I didn't really care for the gruesome and disgusting details in this book. I felt like this has put me off on liking this book. I thought the book was  a bit boring and the ending felt incomplete. I wish there was background on some of the characters and less details on gruesome stuff. This book was a complete miss for me.

April 2021 Haul Part 2!

 

What the month is already almost over? It felt like it just started not to long ago. Ugh, I definitely feel like the year has flew by!

As always, I ended up buying way too much this month. Definitely more than I would finish with in the upcoming months...but, we already established that I have a problem.

I got a quite a few new masks that I am excited to try.  I tried quite a few Facetory masks and I got their new banana mask. The packaging looks so cute! I like Dr. Jart+ masks but, I haven't used them in awhile. They tend to be quite pricey. I splurged and bought the rubber mask to brighten my skin. I have tons of dark spots all of my chin that I can't seem to get rid of. I like TonyMoly's and Simply When's masks and bought a few new variety. They always consistently deliver great results. And while heating eye masks don't really have a skin benefit (at least one I have noticed) I got a few from the MediHeal line because I just like the way they feel.

I love taking both baths and showers. In addition to a few new Lush bath bombs and bubble bars, I decided to up my soap and shower gel game. I got a few bars of soap from TJ Maxx. They didn't seem to have a specific brand name but, they had a nice pine-y scent that I liked. I got two new body washes from Elemis and BBW. The Elemis has frangipani monoi extracts and smells like a dream. The BBW has eucalyptus and spearmint which would make it perfect for bedtime.

I got a new watermelon mask by Milk. I am very interested in the stick application because its perfect when you are traveling. I am going to keep this when I visit my brother. I got a new facial oil from Rain Organics. I love the name of the oil - "I am Enough". I wonder if that applies to the user or the product? I got a new serum from Balance Me to help with my acne prone skin. Hopefully, I can stop getting breakouts...that's a dream..

Have you gotten anything new recently? Anything you are excited to try?

Book Review - Blue Ticket by Sophie Mackintosh

 

When girls get their first period, they are able to take part in the lottery. The young women report to a station and they learn what kind of woman they will be depending on the ticket they get. If they get a white ticket, they can have children and get married. A blue ticket allows them to pursue a career and be free of family duties. This system relieves the burden of choice from a young woman's shoulder. One of the rules of the lottery is that once you receive your ticket, there is no going back.

Calla has received a blue ticket and she questions her fate. She decides to go on the run and live the life she wants. Calla will need to rely on the skills she learned and question those around her. She will have to find a way to escape as the system pits women against her. During her journey, Calla must decide if the lottery knows her better than she knows herself and what the consequences are for going against the lottery.

I was not a fan of this book. I read more than half of the book before I just dumped it. The book lacked world building details. They would share details about certain things but, fail to go into details. I found it hard to understand certain things without understanding the "why".  The writing style felt bland and flat and it was hard to connect to Calla. She came across as cold and clinical. It was hard to put myself in her shoes and feel anything for her plight.

Book Review - The Folcroft Ghosts by Darcy Coates

 

When their mother suffered an accident, Tara and her brother, Kyle, were sent to live with their estranged grandparents. May and Peter Folcroft seemed like the perfect grandparents. Their house is quaint and its hidden in the base of the mountains. 

They noticed that strange things keep happening. Furniture keeps moving around and there are figures in the fog. Tara and Kyle believe that the house might be haunted. A brutal storm cuts down their only line of communication into the outside world. 

May becomes obsessive with them and rarely lets them out of her sight. They try to pretend that they are a happy family. But, when they discover a locked room and a forgotten journal, they know they need to escape.

I read quite a few of the author's books and found this book to be enjoyable. It had a very creepy quality to it. The twist was interesting but, it was hinted at. I liked that they included a few short stories by the author that were interesting to read. I wished that they were fleshed out a bit more into their own novels. If the author released a collection of short stories, I would definitely read them because she seems to have a knack for writing creepy stories.

Book Review - Present Danger by Elizabeth Goddard

 

Special Agent Jack Tanner left the FBI to become a detective in Montana. During a search and rescue mission, he comes across a body in the national forest. He is determined to find the killer, even if he has to work with his ex-girlfriend,  US Forest Service Special Agent Terra Connors.

Terra discovers the victim had ties to a dangerous person who is trafficking artifacts. As the duo investigates, the investigation takes  a deadly turn and it hits too close to home. Terra feels that she doesn't have the courage to face what she needs to do next. However, Jack is determined to protect Terra at all costs. He felt that he has let her down before and he isn't willing to do it again.

I thought the novel was an interesting read with a few twists and turns. I didn't find that the novel was at the edge of my seat suspenseful even though it had a few unexpected twists. I felt like there was a few things that weren't really resolved and it seems the second book in the series are new characters.  While the characters were interesting, I felt like they were a bit dull for my tastes. I would still be open to reading other books by the author.

Book Review - Miriam's Song by Jill Eileen Smith

 

During her life, Miriam held many different statuses for different people. She was an old sister to her brothers but, a prophetess to many. Miriam has always dreamed of freedom and she longed to be loved. This epic story follows Miriam as she navigates the challenges of building a family during incredible hardship, serving as a leader, while holding on to hope.

This was my second novel by the author and I can't say I enjoyed this one. I read more than half of the book and felt that it was moving very slowly for my taste. I felt at times that the story felt fragmented and I stopped reading halfway through. Readers who are more familiar with the story might enjoy this more than I did.

 **Disclosure - I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion.**

April 2021 Empties!

 

April is almost half way over! Honestly, I am not sure what I am counting down for but, the year has gone by incredibly quick. I felt like I barely did or accomplished anything for the last year and half....I can't even say I been finishing up things. Well, this month I finished a few things but, not much.

I bought a few of these aromatherapy bottles from BBW and I am really loving them. The bottles are gorgeous and they smell amazing. I love putting on this cream at night and just breathing it in. I finished a Juice Beauty pore refining mask and it was okay. I am not sure it really did much but, it didn't irritate my skin which was nice.

I love the nose strips from Me Factory. They were easy to use and I loved seeing all the yuckies on the nose strip afterwards. I been trying to do these once every month. I definitely noticed a difference on my nose. I tried the SF lip mask and that was just okay. I am not sure if the gold pattern had any effect.

Did you finish something that you loved? Anything you are planning to rebuy?

Here is everything I finished - 

Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara

Yuni My Om World Calming Aromatherapy Mist

Commodity Rain Rollerball

Juice Beauty Bamboo Pore Refining Mask

BBW Inspire Violet, Sandalwood, and Eucalytpus Body Lotion

SF Sun's Out, Pouts Out Gold Foil Lip Mask

OOTD Aloe Vera & Avocado Ice Cream Mask

Bonvivant Botanical Mask Pack Sodium Hyaluronate + Lotus

Skip the Spa Brightening Firming Sheet Mask 24k Gold

Me Factory Nose Strips

Bonvivant Botanical Mask Pack Chamomile + Tea Tree

Sunday Riley Good Genes Lactic Acid Treatment

Furterer Lumicia Shampoo

Book Review - The Indebted Earl by Erica Vetsch + Giveaway

 

Captain Charles Wyvern owes Major Richardson his life as the man died protecting Charles. Charles knows the best way to honor Richardson is to honor his dying wish. Rich asked Charles to watch over and protect his fiancée along with telling her how much she is loved. As Charles tries to fulfill his duty to Rich, he learns that his uncle has died and he will become the new Earl of Rothwell.

When Charles and the women arrive to his new manor home in Devon, they discover the estate is need of repair. He finds that he is the guardian of three orphan girls.  Charles feels overwhelmed because he knows how to handle the affairs of war but, not young women or being on land. Charles wishes to provide for Sophie so, he proposes a marriage of convenience.

Sophie goes along with Charles's plan to help care for her ailing mother-in-law along with the orphans while giving her freedom. The marriage will give the captain a chance to repay his debt while allowing Sophie to grieve. As a part of their arrangement, Sophie will stay behind to oversee his property and the children while he returns to the sea.

As they try to move on, the captain is arrested for smuggling. As Charles waits in jail, Sophie realizes how much she loves him. She is willing to put everything on the line to protect their freedom and gain his love. 

This was the third book in the series and it was an enjoyable read. The novel could be read as a standalone. I was a bit disheartened that characters from the other books didn't really make much of an appearance. I am curious to know which character will be the next focus.

**Disclosure - I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion.**

 

Can Captain Wyvern keep his new marriage of convenience all business--or will it turn into something more? Captain Charles Wyvern owes a great debt to the man who saved his life--especially since Major Richardson lost his own life in the process. The best way to honor that hero's dying wish is for Wyvern to escort the man's grieving fiance and mother safely to a new cottage home by the sea. But along the way, he learns of another obligation that has fallen on his shoulders: his uncle has died and the captain is now the Earl of Rothwell. When he and the ladies arrive at his new manor house in Devon, they discover an estate in need of a leader and a gaggle of girls, all wards of the former earl. War the new earl knows; young ladies and properties he does not. Still wishing to provide for the bereaved Lady Sophia Haverly, Charles proposes a marriage of convenience. Sophie is surprised to find she isn't opposed to the idea. It will help her care for her betrothed's elderly mother, and she's already fallen in love with the wayward girls on the Rothwell estate. This alliance is a chance to repay the captain who has done so much for her care, as well as divert her attention from her grief. When Wyvern returns to his sea commission, she'll stay behind to oversee his property and wards. It sounds so simple. Until the stalwart captain is arrested on suspicion of smuggling, and Sophie realizes how much he's come to mean to her. Now she'll have to learn to fight, not only for his freedom but also for his love.

About the Author

Erica Vetsch is a New York Times best-selling author and ACFW Carol Award winner, and has been a Romantic Times top pick for her previous books. She loves Jesus, history, romance, and watching sports. This transplanted Kansan now makes her home in Rochester, Minnesota.

Learn more about Erica at www.ericavetsch.com or find her on Facebook.

 

Book Review - The Age of Witches by Louisa Morgan

 

 

Bridget Bishop was accused of being a witch and was hanged for her crimes. Two hundreds years later, her legacy lives through two different lines. One woman is using her power to try to help women in need. The other woman is using her power to get more power and prestige by whatever means necessary.

Annis is a young woman in Gilded Age New York who finds herself caught in between a family feud.  Annis realized that she doesn't want to be a pawn and in the middle of feud. She decides she would use her own power for what she wants. Annis will have to find her own power without succumbing to the siren call of darkness.

The novel started off well and was very interesting. However, around the halfway part of the novel, I felt like the story was dragging on for a bit and felt boring. The novel had a slow burn and there wasn't much story wise. The book was filled with tons of historical details, details about horses, strong female leads, and bits of spells. If you like reading a cozy novel about two witches, then this would be your type of read.

Book Review - The Secret Year by Jennifer R. Hubbard

 

 

Teenagers Colt and Julia has secretly spent the entire year together and no one ever knew, not even her boyfriend. They felt like they needed to keep their love a secret because they were from two different backgrounds. Julia's family was rich and was surrounded by opulence while Colt's family wasn't.

One weekend, Colt's life changes when he hears that Julia dies in a car accident. He is devastated but, he can't mourn in public because their relationship was kept a secret. Colt feels like he played a role in her demise.  When Colt receives Julia's journal, he relives their romance through her words. Will be able to move on?

I am not sure what the point of this book was. I felt like if you read the blurb of the book, you already knew the most potent parts of the books and the rest is just filler. There was barely any character development or backstory and the plot barely progressed. I didn't bond with any of the characters in the book and felt like this book was an epic waste of time.

Book Review - The Two Lila Bennetts by Liz Fenton

 

Lila Benntett has spent her life making one bad choice after another. Now, her bad decisions has caught up to her and split her life into two.

In one life, she is taken hostage by a stranger who knows intimate details about her life. She is trapped in a dank concrete cell and her kidnapper forces her to acknowledge what she has done or face the consequences. In her other alternate life, Lila manages to escape her captor but, someone is intent on destroying her life. They expose secrets that she has kept carefully guarded.

Everything that Lila holds dear to her is in jeopardy. She decides to take stock in all the secrets and lies she has told to decide who she has wronged. Will Lila be able to figure out the culprit before it's too late?

I thought the book had an interesting premise and it was interesting to see what happened in both realities. I can't say that I really care for Lila as a person. However, the reasoning behind Lila's kidnapping seems weak and that the person is desperate to punish someone. I felt like she was singled out in what was a series of unfortunate events. The book dragged on and the ending was expected. I might be opened to reading other books by the author but, I wouldn't go out of my way.

Book Review - House of Secrets (House of Shadows #2) by Darcy Coates

 

Sophie and Joseph barely managed to escape from Northwood. However, their happiness is short-lived when they realized the beast survived and has attached itself to Elise. Garrett writes to the couple and begs for their assistance. They travel to Kensington, an abandoned mansion that overlooks a dead town.

The abandoned house's original owner dedicated her life to researching the Grimlock. The group is hoping that she left behind some clues to defeat the monster that inhibits Elise. As the group begins to peruse the reading material left behind, they notice something dangerous in the air. Their carriage left and it has left them trapped in the house. Will they be able to survive the house or will it consume them?

The book was an interesting read. I felt like the book was a bit slow and there wasn't much going on. Sophie spent most of the book reflecting on how Joseph feels about her. I didn't feel that there were many spooky or scary elements to this novel.  The book felt more like a romantic read than a ghost story. I wasn't fond of this series and I am glad it is over. I am still looking forward to reading her other books.

April 2021 Haul!

 

 

It's April already! I am looking forward to warmer weather. This month I definitely went overboard even though I finished only a handful of things, you know, my usual MO.

I got quite a few new masks and I am really looking forward to using those nose strips for blackheads. I got one from SpaLife and the other from MeFactory. I love using these types of strips and seeing all the gunk that is removed. I got a new mask from MediHeal that has acupuncture points on the mask and you have to press those spots to add another level of relaxation.

As always, I bought tons of lip products even though I can't really wear them without dirtying my mask. I got this lovely red lipstick from MAC in Russian Red and Lotus Night, Julep's Lady in Red lipstick, and YSL red lip stain. I got this pretty pink champagne color from Marc Jacobs in Pink Parade. I got this beautiful tinted lip color from Ilia in Arabian Nights. I heard so much good things from this brand and I am really excited to try it. Charlotte Tilbury is another cult favorite product and I got a beautiful nude brown in Bond Girl. I got a new Fenty beauty lip paint in Unlocked.

I love scalp shampoos and I am really looking forward to the Living Proof one. I have used their leave-in creams and they made a noticeable difference. I also got the one from Sachajuan which also got really good reviews. I got a new facial oil from Malin + Goetz. I have used a few products from this brand and always had good results. I got a new bamboo serum from this Korean brand which seems cool. I also got a few Perricone MD products that promise to help with my acne. 

I got a bunch of other things that I am really excited to try. Is there anything you are excited to try this month?

Book Review - Watch Her (Hester Thursby Mystery #3) by Edwin Hill

 

 

Angela White and her friend, Hester Thursby attends a prestigious gala at Prescott University to celebrate the new lavish campus. During the gala, they are called to the house of the college's owners, Tucker and Jennifer Matson, because there was a break-in. Jennifer claims that someone broke into their home. As Angela and Hester investigate, they realize that Jennifer might be lying about the break-in.   However, they are still curious why Jennifer would lie about the incident.

Hester is asked by Maxine, the general manager of the college, to locate some missing alumni. As Hester begins to dig into the project she notices a strange pattern between the students. The case becomes more urgent when one of the missing students turns up dead. As Hester and Angela delve deeper into the case, they unearth decade old secrets that someone wants to stay buried.

This was my first book of the series. I felt like readers could read this book as a standalone but, I felt like I was missing some nuances between the characters. I thought the book moved at a very slow pace for my liking. Most of the action happened in the last 75 pages and the first few hundred pages were just filler. I am not entirely sure the plot is completely believable either. I had a hard time liking any of the characters and didn't get some of the side stories between Hester and her partner, Morgan. That whole relationship was confusing for me and I am guessing it's because I didn't read the first two books. This book would be a good read for fans of the series or people who like cozy mystery reads.

 **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 Stories You Tell (Roxane Weary, #3) by Kristen Lepionka

 

Roxane Weary knows a late night phone call is never good news. Andrew, her brother called to tell her that Addison, a one-time fling, turned up to his apartment frightened and requested to use his phone. After she made a phone call, she disappears and Andrew is worried. He asks Roxane to help because Allison never made it home and her friends and family are worried about her.

The police believe something happened to Roxane and they suspect Andrew might be involved.  Roxane decides to check Addison's digital footprint and finds herself getting more involved in her disappearance. When a cop is found dead on the opposite side of town, it makes the case more muddled. The staff at the dance club where Addison works goes missing suddenly, the case becomes more convoluted. Roxane tries to decipher the clues that Addison left behind, will she be able to find Addison in time?

When I first picked up this book, I didn't realize it was a part of a series. I was able to read the story and follow along without issue. However, I felt like there was some nuances I was missing between the characters. I thought the book was an interesting read but, I felt like it went a bit slowly. I was able to figure out the person behind the disappearance around half way through the book. I would be open to reading other books from the series.

Book Review - The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie by Alan Bradley

 

In summer of1950, Flavia de Luce is a young girl aspiring to be chemist with a passion for poison. She becomes entwined in a mystery when a dead bird is found on their doorstep with a stamp pinned through its beak. Hour later, Flavia discovers a man dying in their garden and watches as he takes his last breath. Flavia is excited that a murder occurs at Buckshaw as she soon becomes invested in solving the case.

This isn't usually the type of book I would pick for myself. However, it was given as a recommendation to me. It wasn't a bad book but, it wasn't a book that suit my tastes. I found the boisterous Flavia to be annoying and overwhelming at times. I didn't care for the writing style and I found myself having to reread several parts of the story too many times. I was a bit turned off with scenes of  the "Oriental" magic trick and found this to be in poor taste. Some readers might find this series enjoyable, I do not.

Book Review - House of Shadows (House of Shadows, #1) by Darcy Coates

 

Sophie has grown up in a privileged world. However, that all changes when a disaster bankrupts her family. As Sophie tries to come terms with news, an unexpected solution appears. A wealthy stranger, Mr. Argenton, asks for her hand in marriage. Sophie knows if she marries Mr. Argenton it will save her family's fortune and from scandal. Sophie is torn because she knows she will have to leave her family and live in Northwood, a vast and dark mansion that is hours away from civilization.

She struggles with her new life as the mistress of the cold and desolate mansion. Her new relatives are distant and cold, while Mr. Argenton is keeping secrets. Sophie feels that there is something wrong with the house and it feels unnatural.

She hears a piano play during the middle of the night but, no one in the house plays. The house drips blood from the ceiling and she feels a dark and cold presence. Sophie begins to learn that the house is haunted and the house doesn't like intruders.

Sophie feels trapped at Northwood and she is desperate to escape. She wants to leave but, she is unable to leave Mr. Argenton behind. She finds herself drawn to him and suspects he feels the same way about her. However, she knows that the secrets that Mr. Argenton keep might cost her life.

I have quite a few of the author's novels and I have enjoyed them. This book is part of a series and it was an interesting read. However, I had a hard time liking Sophie. I felt like the character was weak and pathetic and she turns hysterical over everything. When Sophie finally grew a backbone, it was unrealistic and out of character for her. I thought it was unrealistic how quickly Sophie fell in love with Mr. Argenton when they mostly kept their distance and she knew he was keeping secrets.  I didn't understand why Sophie kept the odd behaviors of her husband's family a secret when he was nothing but understanding towards her.

March 2021 Empties Part 2!

 

Wow March is almost over and I felt like it just began! I am also very proud that I finished so much stuff this month...which means that next month I am going to finish next to nothing :D

I have love Marc Jacobs but, this was the first time I used their facial products. I am in love with the YouthQuake moisturizer. It smelled and had a texture of creme brulee. I will definitely going to be restocking this moisturizer. I have used several Elemis products and I love putting this on. The cream was so luxurious and felt amazing against my skin. 

I have quite a few of Sand & Sky products but, this was my first time using them. The colorfully bottles on my cabinet shelf. Honestly, I wasn't crazy of this mask as it burned so much and I didn't notice a difference. There wasn't much I tried this month that was a standout. 

Have you finished anything this month that you loved?

Here is everything I finished -

Farm Skin Nourishing Superfood Salad for Skin

Facetory Vitality with Pomegranate Firming Mask

Meg Two Step Jelly Mask Firming and Radiance

Bonvivant Botanical Mask Pack Mint + Teatree

Dermal Pearl Collagen Essence Mask

Orjena Natural Moisture Mask Sheet Rice

Detoskin Green Tea Time Mask

Elemis Peptide4 Plumping Pillow Facial

Marc Jacobs Youthquake

Huxley Secret of Sahara Oil Essence

Lather Bamboo Lemongrass Moisturizer

Philosophy Twinkle Berry Body Wash

NatureLab Tokyo Perfect Repair Shampoo

On10 Raspberry Ginger Ale Lip Balm

Castelbel Porto Bourbon & Pine Luxury Fraganced Soap

YNM Konad Petit Leaf Lotion

Elisha Coy Moist Up Super Hyalurone Ampoule Serum

Nuxe Paris Clarifying Cream Mask Face and Neck

Purlisse Coconut Oil + Coffee Sugar Body Scrub

Christie Brinkley Complete Clarity Daily Facial Exfoliating Polish

Sand &Sky Brilliant Skin Detoxify + Brightening Purifying Pink Clay Mask

ESW Beauty The Pink Dream Moisturizing Raw Juice Mask

Cica X Hyalon Cica 3 Step Mask Special Care Program

Book Review - 29 Seconds by T.M. Logan

 

Sarah is a young professor who has worked and sacrificed everything for her career. However, she is struggling to prove herself to her controlling and manipulative department head, Alan Hawthorne.  Alan is a popular television host and a well known scholar. He brings in million dollar grants to the university where they work. As Alan is the university's golden child, his malicious behavior towards female colleagues have gone ignored for years. Unfortunately, Sarah is his newest victim.

When Hawthorne's unwanted advances become more menacing, Sarah feels helpless. She isn't sure what her options are. One day, during her drive home, she witness an attempted kidnapping of a young child. Sarah intervenes to prevent the child from being hurt. The child's father wants to show Sarah he appreciates her help by offering her a favor in return. The man is a successful businessman who is known to have dangerous connections with the mob. He gives Sarah a burner phone and tells her that he can make all  her problems disappear with one call.

I am not sure if I completely believe this plot. I felt like it was overdone and over the top. I had a hard time connecting with Sarah. She is a well educated professor but, her reactions and personality are the exact opposite. The story took too long to get to the point and by then, I lost interest.  I am not sure what part of the book was supposed to be thrilling but, this entire thing was a snooze fest.

Book Review - Looking Glass (The Chronicles of Alice) by Christina Henry

 

Elizabeth is a young girl who lives in New City who has a secret. She can do magic but, someone has learned her secret who has an hidden agenda of their own. They want to release a butterfly that was supposed to be locked away forever. That butterfly was once known as the Jabberwock.

Alice and Hatcher are looking for a place to call their own. They dream of their own place by the lake that is surrounded by a field of wildflowers. During their journey, they end up being caught in a severe snowstorm. Alice comes across a house that seems empty and abandoned.

Hatcher had a past life before he became known as Hatcher. He was once known as Nicholas. He was one of the best fighters in New City. He has never lost a match until, his boss wants him to fight a person who never left their opponent leave the ring alive.

As Alice and Hatcher continue looking for their new home, they come across a village in the mountains. The village inhabitants all fear and hate magic. Anyone who is caught practicing magic in the Village of Pure will be punished.

The book is composed of four novellas that are separate stories but, they are also interconnected. I didn't realize that this book was a part of a series. I felt that the book can be read as a standalone but, I felt like I was missing some nuances. I liked all four stories and found them entertaining. I think I might read the other books in the series to get the full story behind the characters.

Book Review - The Girl I Used to Be by Mary Torjussen

 

Real estate agent Gemma Brogan spent the night having dinner with a prospective client. The next morning, she is annoyed with herself for drinking so much and having a hangover.  During the span of a few days, Gemma starts receiving mementos from the night. There is a photo with her kissing someone. Then a video of her complaining about her family. The gifts start getting progressively worse and Gemma has no recollection of that night.

As Gemma starts receiving more threatening and compromising photos, she is worried about her already shaky marriage. She begins to feel helpless like her life is spinning out of control.  Gemma begins to remember a night that happened years ago that changed her life.

The book had an interesting premise but, it was a bit predictable. I was able to figure out who was behind the blackmail scheme. The blackmail scheme wasn't very serious but, more an annoyance. I am surprised that Gemma made it a bigger deal than it really was. I supposed that she was worried about the state of her marriage but, she was consistently telling bigger lies to cover up small truths.  The characters were okay but, I found myself annoyed at Gemma. She kept being timid and cowardly with everyone including her husband and employees. She let her own employees tell her what to do. I understand that this was relating to an incident in her past but, it didn't make it less enjoyable.  I may read other books by the author.

 

 

Book Review - All the Children Are Home by Patry Francis

 

Dahlia and Louie Moscatelli are foster parents who provide long-term foster care for children Jimmy, Zaidie, and Jon. Their lives turn upside down when Agnes, a six year old native girl, comes to live with them.

When they decided to become foster parents, they had a few ground rules. They didn't want no newborns, no delinquents, and no girls. When Dahlia was younger, she suffered through a horrid incident that has left her a victim in her own home. She is afraid of the burden of being a girl.

Louie and Dahlia consider their family to be complete but, when a social worker turns up at their door, they have a hard time saying no. Agnes is a young girl who has been abused and neglected and suffers from emotional damage. 

Agnes Juniper is a rambunctious six year old that has no memory of her Native American roots. Agnes knows nothing about herself other than the box of trinkets she received from her mother. She knows she has a sister as she recalls some dreams of her sister. As the years pass, the Moscatelli family find themselves at odds with outside forces.

The book was an endearing read with a lot of heartfelt moments. I enjoyed seeing the children grow up and try to find their own paths. I felt like the book was a bit incomplete in the end and I am hoping that the author plans to continue the story with happens to them in the later years. I am excited to read other books by the author.

**Disclosure - I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion.**

March 2021 Haul!

 

Wow, its already March 13th! Where has the month gone? I feel like this year has been moving so quickly...although last year was quite the blur. 

I got a few Bonvivant masks and they are pretty good. They are decent masks that I used to get from Memebox when they were selling stuff. Now, I usually get them from Amazon. I am still sad that they are no longer a store that sells other brands. They used to have some really amazing deals.

I got quite a few new lip products. I got a few Clinique chubby sticks, I haven't used these in awhile but, I remember loving them. I can't wait to use this one especially the red. I got this really cute heart shaped lipstick from Kaja in Be Mine. I got a few repeat lip products that are favorites such as the Tarte lip pencils and Burt's Bees lip balm.

As the weather is warming up, I got two new scrubs to help get rid of  flaky skin. I love coffee scrubs but, sometimes they are so messy. I bought two different brands: the Coffee Scrub and Frank Body. I am excited to see how each one performs.

I been breaking out a lot lately so, I got some of those acne patches. I heard good things about it so, I am excited to try it. I got another bottle of Huxley Secret Essence. This thing is amazing and I love it so much. I am excited to try the Peach and Lily Glass Skin serum. People swear by it and my skin could use a pick me up.

Did you get anything this month that you are excited to try?

Book Review - Consumed (Firefighters, #1) by J.R. Ward

 

 

Anne Ashburn is consumed by things she cannot control. She is bitter about her family legacy, her career as a firefighter has ended, she is in love with the department bad boy, and her new arson case is against a fiery killer.

Anne is always up for a challenge and is willing to push herself to the limits. However, she made one risky decision and it changes her life forever. Anne has tied her entire self-worth to being a firefighter and she had to give up her dream job. She had to find a way to reinvent herself and her job.

She decides to become an arson investigator but, it pales in comparison to the adrenaline-fueled life she once had. Anne doesn't feel like she would feel the same passion for her job again. However, when a string of suspicious fires is cropping up all over her city, she begins to feel her passion revitalized.

Danny McGuire is one of the city's best fireman. However, after the accident with Anne, he is suffering from a personal crisis. He is heading for disaster after he keeps taking risks after risks. Danny seems to have a death wish until Anne reappears in his life. Will the arson case be able to help Danny find his path again?

I liked that the author took time to build each of the characters and their backstory. However, many of the side stories were bought up but, they went nowhere. I felt like barely any time was spent on the arson case. The culprit was revealed and caught by a lucky chance towards the almost very end of the book. Most of the book was spent on Anne and Danny's romance and random side-stories. I am not sure if this book was meant to introduce us to the characters or it was just a mediocre read filled with useless details.

Book Review - Fallen Beauty by Erika Robuck

 

In 1928 in upstate New York, two seemingly different women cross paths with each other and both of their worlds change.  Laura Kelley and her lover sneak away at night to attend a performance of the Ziegfeld Follies. As their night comes to a close, they make a decision that might have a dark consequence on their future.

Edna St. Vincent Millay and her husband are hosting a party on the same evening. They have a wild party in hopes of providing inspiration to Millay. She wishes for a new lover but, the young man is the first person who isn't willing to bend to her will.

Two years later has passed and Laura is an unwed seamstress with a young daughter and struggling to support her family. Millay is dealing with emotional and mental turmoil. Laura and Millay work together to create Millay's costumes for her next reading tour. However, they have to keep their complex friendship a secret otherwise, it would hurt the ones closest to them. As their friendship grows, the town condemns them as fallen women and they have to decide the price they are willing to pay to live a full life.

This book was an utter bore. I  didn't care for any of the characters. Laura was so passive and let people treat her like a doormat. She was protecting someone and her own heart from getting what she deserves. I found the Millay character quite annoying. She was so needy and doesn't seem to really care about other people but, her own needs. It took a while before their friendship started blooming and by then, I could care less. 

Book Review - Facing the Dawn by Cynthia Ruchti

 

Mara Jacobs has been struggling for three years while her humanitarian husband, Liam, has been digging wells in Africa. She knows she should feel proud and happy for her husband who is helping widows and children nine time zones away. However, she is exhausted and working a dead end job to put food on the table. She barely has time to spend with her three delinquent children, failing to make repairs on their dilapidated house, and she feels like she is barely hanging on most days.

When Mara receives news that her husband has perished during one of his missions, her entire world gets turned upside down. Mara struggles to find joy in her life when she experiences another life alternating incident. She tries to have faith and find hope when things look bleak.

I have read other books by the author and I was looking forward to reading this book. Unfortunately, I had a hard time getting into the novel. I didn't enjoy the writing style and felt like it was fragmented. The way information was revealed felt disjointed. The book moved very slowly and it was hard for me to connect to the characters. I was more than half way done when I couldn't be bothered with reading more.

**Disclosure - I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion.**

Book Review - Network of Deceit (Amara Alvarez #2) by Tom Threadgill

 

After Amara Alvarez rescues nearly fifty kidnapped children, she finally lands her dream assignment. She is transferred to the San Antonio's Homicide Division. Amara receives her first case of a suspicious death of a teenager at a local water park. 

As Amara investigates the case, she notices as she applies pressure to her suspects she bring more chaos to her personal life.  Someone is watching her entire move and is stalking her online. Amara will have to trust her intuition and use unconventional methods to find the killer. She will need to prove herself that her first case won't end up in the cold case files.

This is the second book in the series and the first book I read. I was able to follow along and understand the story but, I felt like there were some character nuances that I missed. The book mentioned several times the case that Amara worked on previously. I enjoyed the story but, I had a hard time liking Amara. I felt like she was a bull in a china shop and had no chill.  I am looking forward to the next book in the series especially, the drama with her new partner.

**Disclosure - I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion.**

 

March 2021 Empties!

 

 

Oh wow, it's already March! I feel like it was just January. Although, with the crappy weather I am excited for more sunny days. 

I finished quite a few things and I am keeping my momentum of finishing stuff. I am so happy but, let's ignore the face that I definitely bought more than I used.  The few sheet masks I finished, I loved using the Karuna and the Simply When masks. My face felt so hydrated and so soft after application. 

I was surprised how much I liked the Purlisse Watermelon cleanser. It left my face feeling clean without feeling stripped and it smelled amazing!  When I got the Brooklyn & Bailey Lash Next Door the mascara felt a bit dry but, after a few uses the mascara was completely dry. I felt like I was sent old product. I am not going to buy another tube from this brand because the first use wasn't impressive to warrant another buy.  

Have you finished anything this month that you would recommend?

Here is everything I finished this month -

Belif The True Cream Aqua Bomb Aloe Vera

Sunday Riley Ice

Nuria Revitalizing Jelly Night Treatment

South Mane Under Eye Gels

Karuna Brightening+ Face Mask

Simply When Water Wish Hydrate Dry Skin

Holika Holika Less on Skin Redness Calming CICA Dressing Mask

Miss Spa Charcoal Clarifying Mask

Detoskin Celery Cleanse Mask

Que Bella Mask

Feel Brilliant Bamboo Charcoal Facial Sheet Mask

Brooklyn & Bailey Lash Next Door

Purlisse Blue Lotus Seed

Amore Pacific Treatment Cleansing Foam

Eva NYC Satin Dream Leave-In Cream

Bioderma Sebium Mat Control

Purlisse Watermelon + Charcoal Purifying Cleanser