Tag: #bookreviewpost

Review of Ella Gets the D by Tanvier Peart: A Heartfelt and Hilarious Romance Novel

Rating: 5 out of 5.

Synopsis: The end of my marriage was the beginning of my happily ever after.
What happens when you hear your husband putting dents in your mattress with another woman?
Leave and never look back!
Easier said than done when you’re a stay-at-home mom, share two kids with the no-good cheater, and have a savings account that laughs in your face on the daily.

I want out and agree to an outrageous separation agreement to avoid a showdown in court with a man standing on his wallet, waiting for me to fall. The mission is next to impossible, but I would rather attempt a full split on a hibachi grill after a Brazilian wax than stay in a marriage I should’ve ended years ago.
Morgan, my best friend, offers a gorgeous townhouse her family owns to get me back on my feet. Eight months rent-free equals one step closer to Divorced AF.
I didn’t expect moms gone wild at my divorce party, but one fruity cocktail led to me staying out past my bedtime and the steamiest dream with a man straight from fantasies.
Every kiss, every caress, made me feel worshipped. Adored.
When Morgan offered this Georgetown home, she failed to mention it belongs to her younger brother, one of DC’s most eligible bachelors. He’s very fine, not a dream, and back early from time away in London.
Now, we’re staring at each other, dumbfounded and turned on.
Ella Gets the D is a standalone divorce romantic comedy perfect for lovers of cinnamon roll heroes, a tired mom getting her groove back, tacos, and lots of spice (we kick the door wide open). This isn’t your fluffy rom-com. Somebody might catch a case.

Book Review:

Now out in the world, Ella Gets the D by Tanvier Peart is a funny, fresh, emotional, heart-felt, realistic, engrossing story of a 30-something wife and mother who is forced to uproot her and her children’s lives after discovering her husband cheating on her in their home. The narrative captures the struggles and triumphs of Ella Greene, who represents countless women dedicated to their families, often at the expense of their own needs and aspirations. This book is a refreshing dive into the journey of self-rediscovery and empowerment, resonating deeply with readers through its relatable characters and scenarios.

Ella’s character is a testament to many women who prioritize their families above all else, neglecting their own needs, goals, and feelings. Her journey begins with the painful yet liberating separation from her egotistic, rude, and misogynistic soon-to-be-ex-husband Charles. As Ella navigates the turbulent waters of separation and single motherhood, she embodies the strength and resilience that many women can identify with, despite their personal circumstances.

Although I am not a mother of human children, I am familiar with the pressure of having to provide, manage, and take care of family members, often losing myself in the process. Being younger than Ella’s character and closer in age to the male lead in this book, Julian, I found myself relating to different aspects of their lives. However, it is Ella who stands out as the character that readers will connect with the most. Her authenticity, vulnerability, and strength are portrayed so vividly that it’s hard not to root for her at every turn.

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Book Review: ‘Jamaal the IT Guy’ by Kasha Thompson – A Delightful Mix of Romance, Humor, and Techy Shenanigans

Rating: 4 out of 5.

Synopsis: Some Workplace Crushes Make You Want To Clock In On Your Day Off.
Winnie Chambers finds herself three months deep into a job she despises at a company she adores. Enduring a boss who oscillates between passive aggressive and outright rude, she feels more like a glorified errand runner than the executive assistant she was hired to be. Her only solace lies in her interactions with the fine IT guy, who she relies on to help with her perpetually malfunctioning laptop.

Jamaal Singleton’s workdays follow a routine: staff meeting at ten, lunch with his work bestie, Risha at noon, and afternoons spent in his cubicle finishing up projects. But since Winnie Chambers arrived, Jamaal’s predictable work routine has been turned on its head. He now spends his days hoping she encounters an IT issue that requires his assistance, strategically wandering the office for a chance to catch a glimpse of her. He fantasizes about her smiling in his direction or confessing her feelings for him on a random Tuesday. At night, Jamaal finds himself drafting list of pros and cons about asking Winnie out on a date and the likelihood of success.

Both Winnie and Jamaal arrive at work each day with the same thought in mind … a chance encounter in the elevators that leads to locked eyes and a passionate make-out session between the second and eighth floors. While they navigate their careers, they also must grapple with how to win over the other’s heart.

Happy Release Day, Jamaal the IT Guy!

Book Review:

The classic British show The IT Crowd has always been a favorite of mine, particularly the character Moss, who, along with the actor, lives rent-free in my head 24/7. In the same vein, Jamaal the IT Guy delivers elements of the quirky nerd male lead, witty banter, guffawing secondhand embarrassment, romance, steamy scenes, and humor. However, it doesn’t quite align with how I imagined it in my head. Instead, readers get a crushes to lovers contemporary story of Black Love set in the tech-world.

What I really liked about this novella was the fact that Winnie and Jamaal have nearly the same amount of page/story space. This balanced perspective allows readers to gain insight into both of their goals, dirty inner thoughts, and their roles within the Codability company they both work at. Speaking of their place of work, I appreciated how their tech company was set up like a wide campus/office layout. I have never been to a big tech company, but I imagine that’s how they’re laid out too. Something Jamaal says to Winnie that I thought was a real think piece was in reference to the office layout:

“You do know that’s the goal with the company. For staff to always be working but not realize it because of the amenities. Everything is right here on campus, so you never have to leave. It’s more than just convenience. It’s created this way by design. Because they know employees will put in more hours and rarely access the extra perks during workdays. And since everyone is a salary worker, it’s essentially free labor after five o’clock.”

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The Deep by Rivers Solomon: A Captivating Exploration of Identity and Memory

Rating: 5 out of 5.

The Deep by Rivers Solomon, with Daveed Diggs, William Hutson and James Snipes

Synopsis: The water-breathing descendants of African slave women tossed overboard have built their own underwater society—and must reclaim the memories of their past to shape their future in this brilliantly imaginative novella inspired by the Hugo Award nominated song “The Deep” from Daveed Diggs’ rap group Clipping.

Yetu holds the memories for her people—water-dwelling descendants of pregnant African slave women thrown overboard by slave owners—who live idyllic lives in the deep. Their past, too traumatic to be remembered regularly, is forgotten by everyone, save one—the historian. This demanding role has been bestowed on Yetu.
Yetu remembers for everyone, and the memories, painful and wonderful, traumatic and terrible and miraculous, are destroying her. And so, she flees to the surface, escaping the memories, the expectations, and the responsibilities—and discovers a world her people left behind long ago.
Yetu will learn more than she ever expected to about her own past—and about the future of her people. If they are all to survive, they’ll need to reclaim the memories, reclaim their identity—and own who they really are.
Inspired by a song produced by the rap group Clipping for the This American Life episode “We Are In The Future,” The Deep is vividly original and uniquely affecting.

Book Review:

Among the selection of books I read a few months ago for the Trans Rights Readathon, I picked up “The Deep.” It had been on my TBR for a while, but I just didn’t get around to reading it. However, I am so glad that I finally did. Before diving into the review, I want to mention some trigger warnings for the book. Readers interested in this book should note that the themes include suicide attempt, suicidal ideations, violence, pregnancy, depictions of death, dying, and slavery.

Diving into the depths of “The Deep” by Rivers Solomon, I was swept away by a tide of emotions, captivated by its profound exploration of identity and memory. Solomon’s work is a tour de force of speculative fiction, immersing readers in a world where the echoes of the past reverberate through the present. At its heart lies the enigmatic figure of Yetu, burdened with the weight of her people’s history, yet yearning for liberation.

Yetu’s character evolves significantly throughout the story. By spending time away from her people and stranded in a shallow pond near the surface among human beings, she experiences life disconnected from the memories of her ancestors and the accompanying painful emotions. During this time, Yetu begins to connect with her own emotions. However, she also realizes that she misses those memories and understands the risk she has imposed on her people by leaving them alone with the remembering pod.

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Unraveling the Layers of “Missing White Woman” by Kellye Garrett: A Mystery Thriller & Call for Support for Operation Olive Branch

Rating: 3 out of 5.

Synopsis: The truth is never skin deep.
 
It was supposed to be a romantic getaway weekend in New York City. Breanna’s new boyfriend, Ty, took care of everything—the train tickets, the dinner reservations, the rented four-story luxury rowhouse in Jersey City with a beautiful view of the Manhattan skyline.
 
But when Bree comes downstairs their final morning, Ty is nowhere to be found and there’s a stranger dead in the foyer—the missing woman the entire Internet has become obsessed Janelle Beckett. Soon, both the police and an army of Internet sleuths are asking questions Bree doesn’t know how to answer. Desperate to find Ty and to keep her own secrets buried, Bree realizes there’s only one person she can turn her ex-best friend, a lawyer with whom she shares a very complicated past. 

Fierce, smart, and thrilling to the end, Missing White Woman not only explores “Missing White Woman” syndrome and traveling while Black, but deftly inverts the hallmarks of the domestic suspense genre to How well can we truly know the people we love? And what happens to these stories when seen through the eyes of a Black woman?

Book Review

Diving into the pages of “Missing White Woman” by Kellye Garrett, I found myself immersed in a tale that straddles the line between cozy mystery and suspense thriller, offering readers a unique perspective on crime, race, and social dynamics.

As someone well-versed in mystery novels, I couldn’t help but notice the cozy undertones woven throughout the narrative. However, what sets this book apart is its exploration of race and identity, as seen through the eyes of its African-American protagonist, Breanna. Her experiences navigating a predominantly white and affluent neighborhood add depth to the story, highlighting the complexities of race relations in modern society.

One aspect I appreciated was the seamless integration of social media’s influence on public perception and collective consciousness. Garrett deftly explores how the spread of news and information via digital platforms can shape narratives and impact real-world outcomes, adding a layer of relevance to the storyline.

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We Could Have Been Friends, My Father and I: A Palestinian Memoir by Raja Shehadeh

My Book Thoughts:

Diving into My Father and I Could Have Been Friends: A Palestinian Memoir by Raja Shehadeh reveals a narrative that intricately intertwines the lives of the author and his father, Aziz. This memoir serves not only as a heartfelt homage to paternal bonds but also as an unraveling of the rich tapestry of Palestinian history.

Raja’s evocative storytelling draws poignant parallels between himself and his father, Aziz. The vivid descriptions of Aziz’s life, motivations, and unwavering commitment to the Palestinian cause paint a compelling portrait of an underdog who emerges as a hero. Despite Aziz’s unyielding efforts, his unresolved assassination and the Israeli government’s reluctance to investigate cast a lingering shadow of injustice over the narrative.

The denial of access to the case file, justified under the guise of “privacy and information secrecy,” hints at a more disturbing truth—the possibility that those in power know the killer’s identity, potentially implicating high-ranking officials. This revelation fuels a sense of frustration, echoing the broader theme of oppression faced by Aziz and his human rights activism, particularly post-Nakba.

Raja adeptly navigates the complexities of his father’s life, portraying him not only as a dedicated human rights advocate but also as a mentor and guide in law. The exploration of the stark generational differences between Raja and Aziz, initially perceived as indifference, gradually transforms into a bittersweet connection as Raja delves deeper into his father’s legacy.

The book unfolds the internal struggles within the Shehadeh family, reflecting broader societal shifts in Palestine. Raja’s depiction of his father’s stoic demeanor and unyielding pursuit of justice becomes a lens through which the political landscape and the challenges faced by Palestinians are viewed.

As the narrative progresses, Raja’s commitment to preserving his father’s legacy becomes increasingly apparent. The exploration of Aziz’s notes and unpublished articles provides profound insights into the Nakba and the tragic decisions that led to the illegal occupation of Palestine. The involvement of countries like the United States, Britain, and France, coupled with the betrayal of Arab states, adds a layer of political intrigue and anger that intensifies the gravity of the situation.

The memoir fearlessly exposes the unsettling truth about international complicity in the atrocities committed against the Palestinian people. Learning about the United States supplying weapons to Israeli colonizers and seeking Arab assistance in suppressing Palestinian resistance is a gut-wrenching revelation that elicits disgust and raises questions about the ongoing consequences of such actions.

While recounting Aziz’s life, from his upbringing to his career, the memoir offers glimpses of normalcy amid the turmoil. However, it is not without its criticisms, particularly regarding the depiction of women in Aziz’s life and Raja’s family. Acknowledging these women may not have been directly involved in the legal system, it seems unfair that their opinions and political views are overlooked, highlighting the broader issue of sexism.

Moreover, the tragedy of displacement and the loss of homes, wealth, citizenship, and generational history resonate deeply. The Nakba, a catastrophic event that forcibly uprooted Palestinians, becomes an unthinkable reality, underscoring the harsh consequences of political maneuvering and power struggles.

One of the most powerful aspects of the memoir is the parallel drawn between Raja and Aziz’s commitment to human rights. The title, “We could have been friends, my father and I,” takes on profound meaning as the narrative unfolds. Despite differing perspectives and generations, the shared values and goals emerge as a testament to the enduring legacy of Aziz.

While reflecting on the past, Raja grapples with the political machinations that have marred Palestinian history. Furthermore, the memoir sheds light on the plotting of powerful nations and their role in destabilizing Palestine, perpetuating a cycle of suffering that continues to this day.

Raja wrestles with the hindsight of these events, acknowledging the difficulty of foreseeing such monumental challenges. The Palestinian people, left in the dark, were blindsided by political schemes and land grabs that altered the course of their history.

In conclusion, My Father and I Could Have Been Friends is a compelling exploration of familial bonds, political upheaval, and the enduring quest for justice. Raja Shehadeh’s masterful storytelling not only pays homage to his father but serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by the Palestinian people. As readers traverse the pages of this memoir, they are confronted with the harsh realities of injustice, political betrayal, and the resilient spirit that persists even in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges.

About the Author: Raja Shehadeh is the author of A Rift in Time, When the Bulbul Stopped Singing, Strangers in the House, described by the Economist as “distinctive and truly impressive,” and Palestinian Walks, for which he won the 2008 Orwell Prize. Shehadeh trained as a barrister in London and is a founder of the human rights organization Al-Haq. He blogs regularly for the International Herald Tribune/New York Times and lives in Ramallah, on the West Bank.

To quote Plestia from an Aljazeera interview: https://www.tiktok.com/@aljazeeraenglish/video/7315156081012002091

“We are not numbers; we are people. We have dreams…I just hope people will see us as humans. [And] I hope that they will understand that we’re resilient and we are patient because we don’t have any other option. But it’s not like Palestinians are built for wars and aggression. No, we’re humans. We love life and we want to live in peace as well just like any other human.”

My goal has been to share these nonfiction books with as much detail and clarity as possible. Slightly bereft of my normal commentary and in the moment thoughts and opinions. However, I find with content such as with this book it is still a challenge but sharing my thoughts and stance on these issues are important as well.

Thank you for stopping by and checking out my post.

Until the next one,

Gia.

Things You May Find Hidden in My Ear: Poems from Gaza by Mosab Abu Toha

My Book Thoughts:

“Things You May Find Hidden In My Ear” unfolds as a soul-stirring debut poetry novel, inviting readers into the rich tapestry of Mosab Abu Toha’s life—from the innocence of childhood to the profound moments of fatherhood. Each poem is a testament to purity, honesty, and a vivid portrayal of life, creating a surreal experience, especially when viewed through the lens of his younger self.

Abu Toha’s verses play with lightness and curiosity, seamlessly intertwining with the weight of life’s challenges within his family and the broader community. The poems act as windows into the struggles faced by loved ones and even strangers, depicting the stark realities of death, close encounters with mortality, and the chilling memories of four violent militant attacks in Gaza. Through these words, the resilience of the Palestinian people resonates, capturing hearts with its enduring strength.

Engaging with this emotionally charged and reflective book, readers embark on a journey of profound intensity. Abu Toha’s powerful verses, rich with detail and information, create an immersive experience. Personally, navigating through the book became a deeply moving and challenging expedition. Over the past two months, we’ve been amplifying the voices and stories of the illegal occupation of Palestine, shedding light on the suffering in Gaza and the West Bank. Witnessing the destruction of homes, schools, hospitals, and places of worship, alongside the lives of innocent civilians, has left an indelible mark on our collective conscience.

In the pages of “Things You May Find Hidden In My Ear,” the poet not only captures the historical resilience of the Palestinian people but also brings the reader into a poignant conversation within the present. Published in April 2022, the book gains a haunting timeliness as many of the places mentioned in the selected poems and the interview (with the author at the end of the book) have been destroyed in the last sixty days. Abu Toha’s past experiences come alive, resonating with the current state of affairs in Gaza, adding an extra layer of emotional weight to the reader’s experience.

Reading the vivid accounts of past devastation while simultaneously witnessing the ongoing destruction is a heart-wrenching paradox. It’s as if time itself is caught in a cruel loop, a recurring nightmare that refuses to end. The author’s portrayal of events becomes even more powerful, transcending the pages of the book and resonating with the urgent reality of the present moment. The reader is left grappling with the profound question of how such atrocities persist without substantial intervention.

In “Things You May Find Hidden In My Ear,” Mosab Abu Toha doesn’t just share his personal journey; he invites readers to bear witness to the ongoing struggles of a people and a region entangled in a relentless cycle of hardship. The book serves as a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of unrelenting adversity, urging us to confront uncomfortable truths and prompting a call to action that transcends the confines of its pages.

About the author:

Mosab Abu Toha is the winner of a 2022 Palestine Book Award and a finalist for the National Book Critics Circle Award in Poetry.
He is a Palestinian poet, scholar, and librarian who was born in Gaza and has spent his life there. He is the founder of the Edward Said Library, Gaza’s first English-language library. Things You May Find Hidden in My Ear is his debut book of poems. It won a 2022 Palestine Book Award and was named a finalist for the National Book Critics Circle Award in Poetry.
In 2019-2020, Abu Toha was a Visiting Poet in the Department of Comparative Literature at Harvard University. Abu Toha is a columnist for Arrowsmith Press, and his writings from Gaza have also appeared in The Nation and Literary Hub. His poems have been published in Poetry, The Nation, The New York Review of Books, the Academy of American Poets’ Poem-a-Day, and Poetry Daily, among others.

Wrapping up this reflection on “Things You May Find Hidden In My Ear,” I sincerely hope that amidst the emotional journey these words have taken you on, you’ve found something uplifting and thought-provoking. Literature has a unique power to bridge gaps, fostering understanding and empathy.

Let’s carry with us the importance of continuing to read, share, and amplify the voices and stories of the Palestinian people. It is through these narratives that we can truly grasp the gravity of the injustices and challenges they face daily. By staying informed and engaged, we contribute to a collective dialogue that transcends borders and brings attention to the urgent need for change.

Thank you for taking the time to explore these reflections with me. Your commitment to learning and understanding plays a vital role in fostering awareness and compassion.

Until the next post,

Gia.

Only Mostly Devastated By: Sophie Gonzales :❤️: | Book Review

Only Mostly Devastated
By: Sophie Gonzales
Genre:Contemporary Romance, Family, LGBTQ, YA Fiction, Friendships
Rating: Loved it
Publisher:St. Martain’s Press/Wenesday Books
Release Date: March 3, 2020

🏳️‍🌈

IndieBound | Amazon |

Synopsis:

SIMON VS. THE HOMO SAPIENS AGENDA meets CLUELESS in this boy-meets-boy spin on Grease

Summer love…gone so fast.

Ollie and Will were meant to be a summer fling—casual, fun, and done. But when Ollie’s aunt’s health takes a turn for the worse and his family decides to stay in North Carolina to take care of her, Ollie lets himself hope this fling can grow to something more. Dreams that are crushed when he sees Will at a school party and finds that the sweet and affectionate (and comfortably queer) guy he knew from summer isn’t the same one attending Collinswood High.

Will is more than a little shocked to see Ollie the evening of that first day of school. While his summer was spent being very much himself, back at school he’s simply known as one of the varsity basketball guys. Now Will is faced with the biggest challenge of his life: follow his heart and risk his friendships, or stay firmly in the closet and lose what he loves most.

Pulled from my read-book vault:

My Thoughts

Only Mostly Devastated by Sophie Gonzales invites readers into the tumultuous world of teenage emotions, deftly balancing between carefree moments and the overly dramatic tones that define adolescence. This delightful coming-of-age novel explores the evolution of a summer fling into a heartfelt journey of self-discovery.

Ollie and Will’s summer romance takes an unexpected turn as they navigate the challenges of high school. The stark contrast between their carefree summer selves and the complexities of the school year sets the stage for a charming and humorous exploration of love and identity.

Gonzales adeptly portrays the internal struggles of Will, who suppresses his true self, leading to a poignant narrative. Ollie’s resilience and self-awareness shine through, creating a powerful dynamic. The characters’ journeys contribute to a broader message about the importance of authenticity and self-worth.

Only Mostly Devastated weaves a narrative that delves into themes of self-discovery and honesty. It skillfully addresses the internal conflicts faced by the characters, emphasizing the positive messages of staying true to oneself amidst societal expectations.

Sophie Gonzales crafts the narrative with precision, effectively communicating the complexity of suppressed emotions and the courage required for self-acceptance. The writing style seamlessly blends humor and depth, making the book an engaging and relatable read.

In conclusion, Only Mostly Devastated is more than a cute and funny exploration of teenage love; it’s a compelling story of empowerment. Readers will be captivated by the characters’ journeys, the positive portrayal of self-worth, and the courage to stand up for oneself. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking a delightful yet powerful narrative on love, authenticity, and the journey to self-discovery during the challenging years of adolescence.

Book received via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

Thank you all for coming over and checking out my thoughts on this lovely read, Only Mostly Devastated. If you’ve read the book and have a different take on it, I would love to hear your thoughts on it.

To those readers who loved Simon vs The Homo Sapiens Agenda  (book & film) and readers who enjoy relationship-building, angst, friendship, humor with authentic touches of sadness and self-reflection–I know, that’s a lot, isn’t it?!😆.

I am confident you are going to enjoy this book as much as I did. And I highly recommend  Only Mostly Devastated be your next story to dive into.😊

Until the next post,

Gia.

Book Review: Falling in Love on Sweetwater Lane

“You wear a suit of armor to protect yourself from getting hurt…when was the last time you were in love with someone?”

Falling in Love on Sweetwater Lane by Belle Calhoune

Tittle: Falling in Love on Sweetwater Lane

Author: Belle Calhoune

Release Date: February 21, 2023

Mistletoe, Maine Series Book 3

Will a big-city veterinarian give this small town—and the single dad who’s caught her heart—a chance?

Veterinarian Harlow Jones knew returning to small-town life, even temporarily, would be a disaster. She just never guessed it would start that way—with her car skidding off the road outside Mistletoe, Maine. And while her rescuer is both charming and handsome, Harlow isn’t about to get involved with a local. She’s in town for one reason only—to pay off her vet school bills—and then she’s back to her real life in Seattle. Nick Keegan knows all about unexpected, life-altering detours. He lost his wife in the blink of an eye, and he’s spent the years since being the best single dad he can be. He’s also learned not to take anything for granted, so when sparks start to fly with Harlow, Nick is all in. He senses Harlow feels it too, but she insists romance isn’t on her agenda. He’ll have to pull out all the stops to show her that love is worth changing the best-laid plans.

Book Review

Set in the small town of Mistletoe in Maine, Falling in Love on Sweetwater Lane is a quintessential romantic book that is perfect for a nice, relaxing summer read. The story follows the life of Harlow Jones, a veterinarian from Seattle who had a rough experience growing up in a small town. Harlow meets Nick, a ruggedly handsome, completely down-to-earth, and wholesome single father, in a tense and unexpected rescue on her first day in town. Although Harlow is closed off romantically, she can’t seem to help herself from being pulled in by Nick’s charm and ease. The same can be said for Nick, who is immediately drawn to Harlow’s beauty and charming personality.

Nick has come to terms with the loss of his first love, wife, and mother of his son. He is open to the idea of being romantically involved with Harlow and taking the next step with her without any hesitation or questions. As the two slowly begin to get to know each other, Harlow is adjusting to the small town of Mistletoe against her better judgment, and readers get to see an authentic relationship and bond form between these two lovable characters.

This is Belle Calhoune’s first book that I have read, and although it is a standalone in a series, I’m really eager to see the romantic stories and beginnings of the other couple pairings of Nick’s brother and his best friend. While reading Falling in Love on Sweetwater Lane, I could vividly picture the story unfolding in a movie, setting kind of like a Hallmark movie very clearly.

As a fur-baby mom, I was really invested in Harlow’s character and her life as a veterinarian. I loved the elements of the dogs mentioned in the book and Harlow’s work as a veterinarian in this story. It was apparent that Mistletoe really needed her input and guidance when it came to the animal community in the town, and I loved how everyone was immediately welcoming of her. And as a distinguished black, female veterinarian? Chef’s kiss.

My similarities to Harlow don’t end with her love for animals and dogs; I, too, am a fraternal twin who has an aversion to relationships and the overwhelming feeling of being tied down to one place — in her case, it’s Mistletoe — for too long. But like Harlow, maybe that’s something I can overcome, right?

This book made me, as the reader, feel invited, and it allowed me to fall in love with this quaint, close-knit town just like she was as the story progressed. I found that Harlow’s character went through a sort of metamorphosis when she moved to the town as she grappled with her past and trauma with old towns when it came to her family and how she tried to navigate this new life she was building for herself, this new love interest, as well as the issues with her mother (spoiler-free here).

An element of the book that I really liked, which might be related to the author on a personal level, was the nods to movie classics and black-and-white films. Does that count as another bias? I’m not sure 🤔. Still, I thoroughly enjoyed reading Falling in Love on Sweetwater Lane.

If cozy romances in small towns with dogs are your kind of story, then this book is something you should consider reading this summer. It is a heartwarming story of love, growth, and acceptance that will surely touch your heart.

About Belle Calhoune

Publisher’s Weekly Best Selling Author Belle Calhoune was born and raised in Massachusetts, one of five children. Growing up across the street from a public library fed her hunger for books, particularly romance novels and mysteries.

A member of the RWA (Romance Writers of America) Honor Roll, Belle has written over 40 books.

Her novel, An Alaskan Christmas, has been made into a television movie by Brain Power Studios, featured on UPtv in October of 2019.

Thanks for reading!