t_lynschm77
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t_lynschm77's rating:
3 out of 5 stars
Added Apr 18, 2021
t_lynschm77's rating:
4.5 out of 5 stars
Added Apr 11, 2021
Comment:
I'm not sure if my love for this story has to do with having a number of men in my life that share characteristics of Ove, or if it was just a super sweet story in it's own right. I really enjoyed it and came to appreciate the simple yet fiercely principled nature of Ove. They just don't make them like that anymore. The theme of loyalty, principles, and community were refreshing to read. The story is based in Sweden, which I didn't realize until it kept mentioning "kroner" and I had to look up what sort of currency that was. Not that it made much difference to the story, but added a quaintness to it. I appreciated everything about this novel.I'm not sure if my love for this story has to do with having a number of men in my life that share characteristics of Ove, or if it was just a super sweet story in it's own right. I really enjoyed it and came to appreciate the simple yet fiercely…
Josh and Hazel's Guide to Not DatingJosh and Hazel's Guide to Not Dating, Book
by Lauren, ChristinaBook - 2018
t_lynschm77's rating:
5 out of 5 stars
Added Apr 03, 2021
Comment:
I loved this book from the very first chapter and was hooked right away! I totally want to be friends with Hazel, and Josh seems to be the perfect catch. The authors did a great job of making both characters so loving and adorable that you are rooting for them from the very beginning. Fair warning, the sex scenes are....um, pretty steamy. You've been warned. I would totally recommend this book (and the Unhoneymooners by the same author).I loved this book from the very first chapter and was hooked right away! I totally want to be friends with Hazel, and Josh seems to be the perfect catch. The authors did a great job of making both characters so loving and adorable that you are…
t_lynschm77's rating:
3.5 out of 5 stars
Added Mar 25, 2021
Comment:
It has to be hard for an author when your book is added to a celebrity's read list. There is so much pressure and so much hype just because a well-known person said it was great. I think the hype (and the wait list) on this novel was overdone. It was a fine novel but all the hype made me wanting it to be more powerful, and it just wasn't. At times there was depth but for the most part, I found it to be a bit immature. I preferred the parts of the story that focused on the adults rather than the storyline of the teenagers. On a more positive note, the focus of idolizing perfection and order was an interesting theme, and sometimes you have to just burn it all down and start over. I am glad I read book. It did not drag on at all for me, I just wanted a little more from it.It has to be hard for an author when your book is added to a celebrity's read list. There is so much pressure and so much hype just because a well-known person said it was great. I think the hype (and the wait list) on this novel was overdone. It…
t_lynschm77's rating:
4 out of 5 stars
Added Mar 20, 2021
Comment:
A harrowing novel that serves as a reminder that abuse can go unnoticed, even by those closest to us, and the trauma of it can extend beyond just the one enduring it. There were surprises in this story that I did not see coming, however the time changes got a little confusing towards the end of the book. Perhaps that was intentional since trauma can jumble the way we remember things. I appreciated the glimpse into a predominantly black community and welcomed the slang that I had never heard before, in it's context. Although the story was hard, there was beauty to be gleaned through the tragedy. Although the book is classified as Young Fiction, it has pretty mature content and, in my opinion, should be only considered for older teenagers and beyond.A harrowing novel that serves as a reminder that abuse can go unnoticed, even by those closest to us, and the trauma of it can extend beyond just the one enduring it. There were surprises in this story that I did not see coming, however the time…
t_lynschm77's rating:
3.5 out of 5 stars
Added Mar 13, 2021
Comment:
To start, I liked the booked. The author has a magical way of developing the characters in a way that even though they are all so different and flawed, they were endearing and lovable. I enjoyed the unexplained draw and the elements of "fate" that were created for each Owen female. I wish I would have read this book first (as the author intended) rather than Rules of Magic, the prequel. I enjoyed Rules of Magic much more. I would have increased my rating by 1/2 a star if it wasn't for the vulgar way the author spoke of sex throughout the book. It wasn't the element of sex itself, but they way it was reference, using the f-word almost every time. I could overlook it once or twice, but over a dozen times was very off-putting and trashy. I did not find the prequel trashy at all, so perhaps the author decided to clean it up for that one. Overall, if you like this book, you will definitely like Rules of Magic!To start, I liked the booked. The author has a magical way of developing the characters in a way that even though they are all so different and flawed, they were endearing and lovable. I enjoyed the unexplained draw and the elements of "fate" that…
t_lynschm77's rating:
4.5 out of 5 stars
Added Mar 07, 2021
Comment:
I devoured this book! It was very well-written with great character development, great historical facts, and a nicely wrapped ending. The stories of the children from the orphan train simply blow my mind. The resiliency and survival of those that had suboptimal circumstances is inspiring. I would recommend this book to anyone.I devoured this book! It was very well-written with great character development, great historical facts, and a nicely wrapped ending. The stories of the children from the orphan train simply blow my mind. The resiliency and survival of those that…
t_lynschm77's rating:
4 out of 5 stars
Added Mar 04, 2021
Comment:
A well-done thriller where it is hard to tell what is real and what is not. I loved how it unfolded a little at a time and out of nowhere, unexpected truths were revealed. I didn't see the end coming, which made the climax great. The author did a super job of shaping the main character and letting us get to know her. The book also had nice short chapters, which I appreciated, so that I could read little bits when I had time. I would recommend this one.A well-done thriller where it is hard to tell what is real and what is not. I loved how it unfolded a little at a time and out of nowhere, unexpected truths were revealed. I didn't see the end coming, which made the climax great. The author did a…
t_lynschm77's rating:
3.5 out of 5 stars
Added Feb 27, 2021
Comment:
For a Young Fiction book, it was good. The book reads like a girl's diary, which is not my favorite writing style. I would love for the author to make an adult version of this story with deeper character development and side-stories. It has great bones for a deeper novel. I am conflicted with how I felt about how it ended, but it was unexpected.For a Young Fiction book, it was good. The book reads like a girl's diary, which is not my favorite writing style. I would love for the author to make an adult version of this story with deeper character development and side-stories. It has great…
The Extraordinary Life of Sam HellThe Extraordinary Life of Sam Hell, Book
by Dugoni, RobertBook - 2018
t_lynschm77's rating:
4 out of 5 stars
Added Feb 23, 2021
Comment:
Nice story. Nothing overly complex or surprising, but well-written. The underlying theme of faith was an unexpected journey. I appreciated the devotion of the parents to Samuel and each other, and the loyalty of Sam's friends. Sam's struggle to accept himself is one that many can relate to, especially those with undesirable physical characteristics.Nice story. Nothing overly complex or surprising, but well-written. The underlying theme of faith was an unexpected journey. I appreciated the devotion of the parents to Samuel and each other, and the loyalty of Sam's friends. Sam's struggle to…
t_lynschm77's rating:
4.5 out of 5 stars
Added Feb 15, 2021
Comment:
After coming off of The Great Alone (so, so, good!), this book was a bit of a let down. The historical aspect of the Dust Bowl, The Great Depression, and the westward movement of so many mid-westerners was a new area of historical fiction that I had not read before, so that was an eye-opener. The author does a great job of capturing the devastation and the fear of that time in history. Even though I longed to get back into the story each day, and I finished the over 400 pages in a week, I was left wanting more. It is worth the read but for those that are a fan of some of Hannah's more popular works, you might be a little disappointed.After coming off of The Great Alone (so, so, good!), this book was a bit of a let down. The historical aspect of the Dust Bowl, The Great Depression, and the westward movement of so many mid-westerners was a new area of historical fiction that I had…
t_lynschm77's rating:
5 out of 5 stars
Added Feb 09, 2021
Comment:
I loved this book so much! I'm having a hard time deciding whether I liked this one or Hannah's other book, The Nightingale, more. It is that good! The story never lagged and there were times that I was anxious reading it because I knew something pivotal was on the horizon. Reading it during the winter when snow is on the ground is an extra treat to being transported to the harshness and beauty that is Alaska.I loved this book so much! I'm having a hard time deciding whether I liked this one or Hannah's other book, The Nightingale, more. It is that good! The story never lagged and there were times that I was anxious reading it because I knew something…
t_lynschm77's rating:
4 out of 5 stars
Added Jan 19, 2021
Comment:
A nice slow-burn type of novel. The author does a great job of not revealing too much too soon, but just enough that you know there is still more to come. The love displayed in the story is fierce, and messy, and heart-breaking at times. I loved being transported to New Zealand and introduced to the world of surfing while the main characters worked out their messed up past.A nice slow-burn type of novel. The author does a great job of not revealing too much too soon, but just enough that you know there is still more to come. The love displayed in the story is fierce, and messy, and heart-breaking at times. I loved…
t_lynschm77's rating:
5 out of 5 stars
Added Jan 14, 2021
Comment:
This may be one of the cutest romance books I've ever read. It wasn't sappy and unrealistic, but witty, sarcastic, and adorable. The authors did a great job of making Olive sassy and witty and I loved that about her character. She grows as a person throughout the story and her big, intrusive Hispanic family was a fun touch to the storyline. And, oh my goodness, the authors did an amazing job of making Ethan's character painfully hot, not just physically, but in a variety of ways. I loved the characters and loved them falling in love. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys playful, sarcastic banter, and feels like being swept away to the islands while they read.This may be one of the cutest romance books I've ever read. It wasn't sappy and unrealistic, but witty, sarcastic, and adorable. The authors did a great job of making Olive sassy and witty and I loved that about her character. She grows as a person…
t_lynschm77's rating:
4 out of 5 stars
Added Jan 10, 2021
Comment:
This was a cute romance that was fun to read during the winter months. You could enjoy it at any time of year, but the fact that it started during December was quaint. It has a little feel of Bridget Jones Diary, which was clever and relatable. The f-word was a common one, but I suppose it added to the unrefined nature of the characters. An unexpected theme in the story was that of selfless friendship and denying self for the sake of another. I loved the deep rooted friendship between Laurie and Sarah, and the author did a great job of developing their relationship. I thought the story was a tad drawn out towards the end, but that only made it even more believable in real life. I recommend this story to those that enjoy clever romance novels.This was a cute romance that was fun to read during the winter months. You could enjoy it at any time of year, but the fact that it started during December was quaint. It has a little feel of Bridget Jones Diary, which was clever and relatable. The…
t_lynschm77's rating:
4.5 out of 5 stars
Added Jan 04, 2021
Comment:
I devoured this book in about 3 days. I just couldn't get enough of these magical siblings and what life delivered them. I was torn about my rating because it was very close to being a 5 star for me. I loved how the story started with the siblings as teenagers and followed them throughout their life with each having a storyline of their own, yet also connected. I cried at the end and got right online to place a hold on Practical Magic to continue the story.I devoured this book in about 3 days. I just couldn't get enough of these magical siblings and what life delivered them. I was torn about my rating because it was very close to being a 5 star for me. I loved how the story started with the siblings…
t_lynschm77's rating:
4 out of 5 stars
Added Dec 30, 2021
Comment:
I loved the writing style with each chapter being from a different character point of view. That may be my favorite style of fiction writing. It was a little too all connected to be believable, but it was a page-turner, none-the-less. I was surprised by the ending, which really made the whole book enjoyable. I could have done without so much vulgar language, but I suppose it could be argued that it fit the characters. For those that like mysteries and revenge stories, this one is good.I loved the writing style with each chapter being from a different character point of view. That may be my favorite style of fiction writing. It was a little too all connected to be believable, but it was a page-turner, none-the-less. I was…
t_lynschm77's rating:
3 out of 5 stars
Added Dec 21, 2020
Comment:
It had the potential to be really good but I was distracted by some of the grotesque scenes. There were also a few spots that were hard to follow. The ending happened too fast and too easy. It was a page-turner and I enjoy reading hyped books and drawing my own opinions, so I'm glad I read it. I was just left disappointed with all that it could have been. The main character was very likable and the love she has for her cousin was endearing and moving.It had the potential to be really good but I was distracted by some of the grotesque scenes. There were also a few spots that were hard to follow. The ending happened too fast and too easy. It was a page-turner and I enjoy reading hyped books and…
t_lynschm77's rating:
4 out of 5 stars
Added Dec 13, 2020
Comment:
This is not a story I would have probably picked on my own but it was a book group pick so I gave it a try. The beginning was a bit confusing but quickly became easy to follow. As the story unfolded and truths were revealed, I found I was more and more compelled to keep reading. I enjoyed watching the main character grow and change and was satisfied with the way the book ended. If you are open to a sci-fi novel that contains self-growth and family ties, you'll probably enjoy this book, too.This is not a story I would have probably picked on my own but it was a book group pick so I gave it a try. The beginning was a bit confusing but quickly became easy to follow. As the story unfolded and truths were revealed, I found I was more and…
The Pecan ManThe Pecan Man, Downloadable Audiobook
by Selleck, Cassie DandridgeDownloadable Audiobook - 2014
Available
t_lynschm77's rating:
4 out of 5 stars
Added Nov 29, 2020
Comment:
A great story and fast read. I loved how family was redefined and racial awaken was portrayed throughout the story. It provided a reminder of what lengths some will go to in order to protect and provide for their family. I enjoyed the book and would recommend it.A great story and fast read. I loved how family was redefined and racial awaken was portrayed throughout the story. It provided a reminder of what lengths some will go to in order to protect and provide for their family. I enjoyed the book and would…
t_lynschm77's rating:
4.5 out of 5 stars
Added Nov 28, 2020
Comment:
This book gives such an interesting insight on a part of the resistance during WWII that I hadn't thought about before...forging documents. Of course, this would be important to help people escape. Kristin Harmel does an excellent job of showing this side of the fight while mixing it with love, tragedy, parental disappointment, and hope. It's not a fast-moving book but was compelling enough to keep reading and racing towards the end.This book gives such an interesting insight on a part of the resistance during WWII that I hadn't thought about before...forging documents. Of course, this would be important to help people escape. Kristin Harmel does an excellent job of showing…
t_lynschm77's rating:
4.5 out of 5 stars
Added Nov 24, 2020
Comment:
Tough to read but a beautiful story of love and survival. The fact that it was based on a true story was even better. The author's notes and prologue made the book even richer. I recommend it.
t_lynschm77's rating:
4 out of 5 stars
Added Nov 18, 2020
Comment:
This book took me about 100 pages to get into it but once I did, I couldn't put it down. What a great blend of folklore with modern realism. Is there a weretiger, is there not? Why are body parts missing from the hospital and who is involved? Will Ji Lin grow into her own free woman to do the things she wants, or will her over-bearing and abusive stepfather always control things? So many storylines that come together as the book draws to a close. If you like stories that make you wait until the end to figure it all out, you will enjoy this book.This book took me about 100 pages to get into it but once I did, I couldn't put it down. What a great blend of folklore with modern realism. Is there a weretiger, is there not? Why are body parts missing from the hospital and who is involved? Will…
t_lynschm77's rating:
5 out of 5 stars
Added Oct 26, 2020
Comment:
Such a good book! I devoured it in just a few days and was sad when it was over. I loved how the marsh came alive through the eyes of Kya. A story of endurance, protection, survival, and living like no other, this was a page-turner!
t_lynschm77's rating:
3.5 out of 5 stars
Added Oct 23, 2020
Comment:
Cute book if you need a light read. I thought it was clever that the whole book covered a 2 week time period for the character. It kept the story from feeling drug out. It was sort of fun to read it around election time.
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