Tar Heel Reader

REVIEW & FEATURE: Thank you, @grandcentralpub @gallerybooks , for the gifted books. I read/listened with the audiobook from my local library and @libby.app . ADULT BRACES: “In bestselling author Lindy West’s most ambitious book yet, she takes readers along on an uproarious cross-country road trip as she unpacks her last few tumultuous years, rediscovers herself, and reinvents her marriage in the process.” I’ve read a few of Lindy West’s other novels and highly recommend the audio format because West’s humor is even funnier in her own voice. In this memoir, West shares stories as she takes a solo road trip cross-country to the Florida Keys and back. I really loved this aspect and wish I could do it myself. As ever, she is brutally honest and self-discovery happens, along with broaching several important topics, including the status of her marriage to a polyamorous spouse. There were moments I laughed out loud and so many times I wished I had a friend buddy reading with me so we could commiserate on some of her priceless antics. Lindy shared how at times she feels like her friends have drifted away, or she feels this awkwardness towards them, but through her journey, she reconnects to herself and those she loves. I’m not even sure that was supposed to be part of the sharing, but I felt it, and it was so relatable to experience that circle. TWILIGHT OF CAMELOT: I’ve been watching Love Story and have become more curious about the Kennedys. I’ve not learned much about Patrick Kennedy over the years, and this book has a high ratings and terrific reviews. I’ll report back once I’ve read more. “From the author of the “insightful and well-crafted” (The Wall Street Journal) Kennedy and King comes a heart-wrenching and sensitive examination of the tragic loss of President John F. Kennedy and First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy’s premature son, Patrick, and how their shared grief brought them closer together in the months leading up to his assassination.” #bookish #bookstagram #justbooksbookstagram #bookstagramnc #tarheelreader tarheelreaderreviews

REVIEW: Thank you, @suzyapprovedbooktours , for the gifted book. “In this delightfully heartwarming novel, an elderly dog is determined to help his grieving owner find a reason to go on after loss. Now, if only he’d stop getting in his way by being so very . . . human.” I’ve read several of Camille Pagan’s books, so I was thrilled to see a new one with an adorable pup on the cover! Harold, the pup, is aging, when he loses his owner, Amelia May. Her partner, Miguel, is still alive, though, and Harold is on a mission to help Miguel find love. Amelia was a novelist, and she and Miguel owned a bookstore together, so there’s plenty of bookish backdrop to the story. Together, Harold and Miguel meet a woman named Fiona with a daughter named Amelia, which Harold is convinced is no coincidence. He is determined that Fiona is Miguel’s new person, and he’s running out of time helping Miguel discover that, too. In this heartwarming ode to bookish dog and animal lovers and stories of second chances, yes, there is sadness, and I cried a big cry at the end. Was it worth it? Absolutely. Just like every single furry family member I’ve adopted over the years. #bookish #bookstagram #justbooksbookstagram #bookstagramnc #tarheelreader tarheelreaderreviews

REVIEW: Thank you, @atriabooks #atriapartner, for the gifted book, now available in paperback! I read the physical and listened with the audiobook from my local library and @libby.app . I featured Free Ride for its hardback release and figured I’d circle back with a review now that it’s available in paperback, too! “By the YouTube sensation with more than two million followers, the inspiring account of a woman in her thirties who, in a moment of personal crisis, embarked on an epic, transcontinental motorcycle ride—and along the way found a new sense of purpose.” I love a travel memoir. I love adventure. And I absolutely love an empowering journey. Free Ride is all of the above and more. Noraly is a geologist living in the Netherlands when she discovers her partner has been having an affair. She now has to move, and at this crossroads, she decides to quit her job and head to India for a new start. She falls in love with a motorcycle. Yes, she does. Noraly feels more free and herself than she ever has, and so she sets out to travel long distances. Solo. She travels through Myanmar, Thailand, and into Malaysia. Then, she ships her bike to Oman and journeys across Iran, Turkmenistan, and back into Europe all the way to her home in the Netherlands. I am so in awe of Noraly Schoenmaker and her resilience on this journey. I loved everything about this book and could not get enough. There were times her bike broke down and the journey was precarious, but people always helped her, no matter how remote, or the language barrier. I read this several months ago. Reflecting and writing my review now has a whole new meaning. I’d love to travel the country in my own RV some day. One of my great aunts did it, driving from Alaska to North Carolina many times over. The thought intimidates me, but my resolve grows every day. To ride solo on a motorcycle traveling the world is a whole different level. 💪 #bookish #bookstagram #justbooksbookstagram #bookstagramnc tarheelreader tarheelreaderreviews

#pubday REVIEW: Thank you, @harperbooks , for the gifted book. “Spinning at the Edges is, simply, a marvel.”—Edward P. Jones, Pulitzer Prize-winning author of The Known World “From the author of the acclaimed As Close to Us as Breathing, a captivating novel steeped in history, revealing the bonds of family and community, and the healing powers hidden inside broken hearts.” Ruth Pearl lives in a New England town on a pristine lake. Several years earlier, she fled German-occupied Amsterdam with her parents after tragedy. When Ruth’s neighbor adds to his home, blocking her view of the lake, she has no choice but to take him to court. She finds no justice. One day Ruth is skating on the lake, when she sees a little boy fall through the ice. With the help of a local judge, they save the boy named Ian. As he heals, so do Ruth and Arthur, the judge, which sets the stage for Ruth to finally talk with her daughter about her life during the Holocaust. I found it fascinating that the author chose to set this novel during the 2000 presidential election, which was quite controversial at the time. Spinning at the Edges is about the fragility of so much in life, including democracy. I respected how the author wove this into the story in such an authentic way. A powerful and fully resonant story with a strong historical backdrop. Perfect storytelling. #bookish #bookstagram #justbooksbookstagram #bookstagramnc tarheelreader tarheelreaderreviews

REVIEW & Features: Thank you, @randomhouse @ballantinebooks , for the gifted books. THE THINGS WE NEVER SAY: now available! I am so excited to be reading an early copy of one of my favorite author’s newest novel! This quiet story is about a teacher. “Pulitzer Prize–winning, #1 New York Times bestselling author Elizabeth Strout’s new novel tells the story of a chance incident that sparks a powerful realization in a beloved teacher’s life—a poignant meditation on loneliness, friendship, parenthood, and the importance of truth in a capsizing world.” THE CHATEAU ON SUNSET: Available June 2! “Epic Love. Tragic Loss. Beautiful Friendship. The entrancing story of an orphan who grows up surrounded by the beautiful and the broken in the world’s most infamous hotel.” Natasha Lester’s newest novel is fully immersive and richly told. Aria is sent to live with her starlet aunt at the Chateau Mormont when her parents pass away. She’s often left alone in the famous hotel, and there’s a library there. Eventually the hotel is sold to a rockstar. This one has Jane Eyre vibes, and I really enjoyed the hotel setting with her 50s, 60s, and 70s backdrop. Thoroughly entertaining. UPWARD BOUND: “A wondrous, deeply affecting portrait of the interlocking lives at an adult day care center in Southern California, depicting an often overlooked community with extraordinary wit and grace—by a major new literary voice hailed as a “groundbreaking debut novelist” (Publishers Weekly) I can’t wait to pick this up. We need more stories about individuals with disabilities. According to the synopsis, the author is the first non speaking graduate of UCLA. #bookish #bookstagram #justbooksbookstagram bookstagramnc tarheelreader tarheelreaderreviews

Thank you, @adams_media , for the gifted books. All the cozy vibes for this series! ☕️ ❄️ 🌕 📚 💍 🫐 🧳 ✈️ There’s a new Cranberry Creek Mystery on the way, available May 26! My sweet mom has literally devoured these cozy mystery + crossword books (see her work inside) and has been eagerly awaiting the new release since late January! #MurderOnVacation: “Cozy mystery meets word search fun in the perfect killer combo! This interactive murder mystery puzzle book blends all the charm of a small-town mystery with fifty clever, engaging word searches to help you solve the case. So settle in with your favorite blanket, a warm drink, and maybe a cat (or two!) and discover the secrets hidden within a romantic getaway.” We are hoping the series continues because there’s nothing else out there quite like it. It’s cozy and soothing to read and complete the puzzles. The stories to go along with the word searches make it even more fun and engaging than traditional word searches. Thanks again for all the entertainment, Noelle, Rosie Point, and Charles Timmerman! Mom and I highly recommend this series for a calming, wind-down routine at end of day when decompressing. A perfect treat. #bookish #bookstagram #justbooksbookstagram #bookstagramnc tarheelreader tarheelreaderreviews

REVIEWS: Thank you, @bookmarked , for the gifted books and swag. Extra shoutout to my dear friend, @plbthoughts , and her daughter, @littleluna , for the magic that is this song. I featured these beauties when I received them for Valentine’s Day, and I wanted to share thoughts. MOST ARDENTLY YOURS, publishing July 7!: So cute packaged in its box and beautifully wrapped with an adorably British cover underneath! Freya Sampon’s new novel is a Pride and Prejudice retelling! It’s also a book about books featuring the P&P novel within the story itself. The main character, Zoe, has actually summoned Mr. Darcy into her life. You have to read this to find out what happens next. Most Ardently Yours is the feel-good rom com I desperately needed to read. It’s a slower building story that really takes off about two thirds in. I loved the charming characters! So fun and warm! WHERE THE WILDFLOWERS GROW: Available now! How about the spredges on this novel?! So perfect for spring! I loved Terah Shelton Harris’s debut, One Summer in Savannah, and this epic story of grief is equally strong. Leigh is walking through tremendous pain and loss, onboard a bus to prison, when a tragic crash happens. Eventually, just trying to survive, she finds a flower farm in rural Alabama where she can start over, but her past is never far behind. A heavy read, at times, it’s thoughtful and well-balanced with the lyrical writing and lush and bright setting. Full of emotion and power, I was fully invested in Leigh’s journey of survival and redemption. #bookish #bookstagram #justbooksbookstagram #bookstagramnc #tarheelreader tarheelreaderreview

REVIEW: Thank you, @suzyapprovedbooktours , for the gifted book. “A young mother filled with regret returns to Sullivan’s Island to rebuild her life and finds compassion in the most unexpected places in this heartfelt women’s fiction story of self-discovery and second chances from bestselling author T. I. Lowe, whose novels have been described as “soul-stirring, unforgettable romance” (BookPage). I love a story set in the Lowcountry of South Carolina, and South of Somewhere is set in charming Sullivan’s Island. Junie experiences loss, and her grief leads her to addiction, eventually losing custody of her daughter, Fern. Now sober, she is determined to be the mother Fern deserves. She is living in her late grandmother’s beach house and focuses hard on recovery. South of Somewhere is a story of second chances, reinventing oneself, healing from tragedy, and ultimately, hope. It has a sweet romance and a vibrant setting with well drawn characters. I thoroughly enjoyed the way the author explored Junie’s recovery journey and all the hope infused throughout. #bookish #bookstagram Tyndale House #justbooksbookstagram #bookstagramnc #tarheelreader tarheelreaderreview

#pubweek REVIEWS: Thank you, @flatiron_books , for the gifted books. A KILLING COLD: “A woman invited to her wealthy fiance’s family retreat realizes they are hiding a terrible secret—and that she’s been there before, by the bestselling author of What Lies in the Woods.” One of my friends told me I had to read this author, and I finally did! Wow! Now I know why. A Killing Cold is filled with chilling atmosphere, just like the cover and title forebode. It’s a fresh mystery thriller that kept me guessing throughout, and I couldn’t get enough. If you haven’t read it yet, definitely pick this one up if you are looking for your next great thriller read. BODY ELECTRIC: Available now! “From the award-winning journalist and TED Radio Hour host comes a timely investigation into how screens and sitting are reshaping our bodies—and how a simple shift can change everything.” Honestly, the synopsis and rating say it all. I wish I could place it in everyone’s hands. An investigation into how tech and sedentary living are changing our eyes, blood pressure, posture, productivity, and shaping our relationships. The author’s research suggests making small changes can improve our health and well-being. My favorite thing about reading this was the actual practical tools and advice. Less screen time. More movement and connection. A work in progress for sure, but I’m even more focused thanks to this book I think I’ll leave on my nightstand as a regular reminder of its important messaging. #bookish #bookstagram #justbooksbookstagram #bookstagramnc tarheelreader tarheelreaderreviews

#pubday: Thank you, @spiegelandgrau , for the gifted book and swag. Swipe to see! I had to join in the pub day love for The Calamity Club by beloved author Kathryn Stockett! I’m currently reading this 4.40 star rated chunkamunk and fully immersed in Meg and Birdie’s stories. We have waited a long time for something new by this author, seventeen years, and here it is! “The multimillion-copy-selling author of The Help returns with a bold, big-hearted novel about a group of unbreakable women, fighting for what’s rightfully theirs—and the power of friendship to change everything.” “Pure, hell-raising entertainment.”—The New York Times Book Review “The Calamity Club will make you laugh, cry, and cheer—an epic testament to underestimated women who know that calamity can be the spark of new beginnings. This is Kathryn Stockett at her most confident, heartfelt, and hilarious—the triumphant return of one of the most beloved storytellers of our time.” Stay tuned for a very special giveaway later this month! #bookish #bookstagram #justbooksbookstagram #bookstagramnc tarheelreader tarheelreaderreviews

#pubday REVIEW: Thank you, @kristywharvey , for the gifted book and swag. Kristy Woodson Harvey is one of my very favorite North Carolina authors. I discovered her debut around the time I started blogging, and I’ve been here for every single title thereafter. The cover of Summer State of Mind is especially nostalgic for me because it is inspired by the street and the sound I lived on for several years as a child, where Kristy also lived for a time a few years back. 😍 Plus, this title gives Carolina in My Mind vibes, which is the unofficial anthem of the beloved alma mater we share. 👣 🐏 Set in Cape Carolina, Daisy is leaving a more stressful job in Charlotte to start over. Mason, a baseball coach, discovers an abandoned baby. Mason and Daisy connect over the baby, and sparks are beginning to fly. There’s adorable Aunt Tilley, who was also featured in a previous book by Kristy, Under a Southern Sky, and she has her own story. What a gift to see her again. Mason has a big family with lots of hidden secrets. His family offers healing for Daisy, who has her own scars to bear. There are layers of complex family drama with charming characters who grow and love. Wow, do they ever love in this story of family in all its forms. As ever, everything we love about southern fiction stories is available right here, and I can think of no finer way to kick off my summer reading than with a Kristy Woodson Harvey novel. All the stars in the Carolina sky. #bookish #bookstagram #justbooksbookstagram #bookstagramnc tarheelreader tarheelreaderreviews

#pubweek REVIEWS: Thank you, @crownpublishing @doubledaybooks , for the gifted books. ERADICATION: A FABLE - I love the smooth cover without a dust jacket and the simple cover design. And the purple! Ever since reading The Swiss Family Robinson as a child, I love a good survival, desert island story, which this more delivers with a side of weird in a great way. Adi is hired to spend five weeks on a tiny island infested with goats. Considering his job is to end their overpopulation, this was a precarious reading experience for me. I peeked at early reviews and thought/hoped I might be okay with it all. Adi is a fabulous main characters grappling with grief and the meaning of his life. The story is extremely powerful and worthy of the times I held my breath because, in the end, the heart of the book is in the same place as my own. Bring on all the eco-fiction. Happy pub week, FIVE!: Ilona Bannister’s debut, When I Ran Away, is perfection in book form, so I had to read her third book, Five. “Five lives. Five stories. Four will live - one will die.” You know ahead of time that one of the characters you’ve just met will die, but first the author shares each of their stories. Each character is complex, to like and loathe. Completely original and captivating, I can’t spoil any of it by oversharing. I loved the dark humor, and it’s perfectly written, keeping you immersed in the story throughout. It kept me guessing and doubting my intuition. Clever and dark, Five delivers something entirely new and powerful. #bookish #bookstagram #justbooksbookstagram #bookstagramnc tarheelreader tarheelreaderreview