For Auld Lang Syne: Say Goodbye to 2023 with a Few Great Reads!

HI there!

Long time, no blog post...I know, I know. Tis the season for all the holiday hubbub, and between getting things ready at home, surviving the chaos at work, my fur kid being in the hospital, etc...this Christmas didn't exactly turn out how I might have hoped. But I digress, one area that HAS been good is the READING, and so, I give you today's roundup of titles that are a great pick for your personal reading, gift giving/exchanging ideas, or an easy peasy way to spend those gift cards that you might have received!  So wish 2023 adieu and welcome 2024 with a start on your MUST READ list.

 Ready? Set? READ ALL ABOUT IT...

Maddie's Ghost

by

Carol Fisher Saller

9798986235349

Duckweed Books

Labeled for the upper-Middle-Grade crowd, this touching story tells the tale of Lainie Stanton and Madeleine, her infamous great grandmother.  I won't go into details on the story itself as it definitely keeps its air of mystery throughout, but I will touch on a few factors that endeared it to me.  I loved the family ties that were built into the story.  From her many uncles to the echoes of the past, Lainie was not alone, and that's important to know at any age or stage of life.  I appreciated the other side of the story presented when we were investigating Madeleine's past.  True, it was touch and go because of the ghostly memories leading the way, but it reminded us that a story has more than one side, and what may have been presented as gospel truth could in fact be hiding something much bigger, much more important.  I enjoyed the chance to uncover the truth alongside Lainie, never once feeling like we were kept in the dark.  I admit I had my thoughts on how things would turn out, but it didn't lessen my enthusiasm for the moments of discovery as they occurred.

A great read with a touch of paranormal for the designated age group and beyond!

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The Paris Notebook

by

Tessa Harris

9780008564445

HQ

Oh my word!  My only regret with this one is not having had enough time earlier in the month to bring it to you.  I quite literally finished reading this just the other night, and, if you're a Historical Fiction fan, you don't want to miss it!  I find myself reading a lot of works in this genre that took place around WWII, and this one is no exception.  The tale opens with a moment in the future with an immediate jump to the past to reveal how we ended up where we were; all because of a madman, and a notebook that could betray him.  When I say I started this one and didn't want to put it down, I am not exaggerating.  The characters come to life right off the page, the settings whisk you away to see them firsthand, and while the events transpiring are tragic to say the least, there is still beauty found, moments of hope, and pockets of resilience to fight for another day.  I cried for Katja more times than I can count.  I worried for Doctor Viktor and yet silently praised his delayed bravery.  I took a shine to Daniel who was still trying to heal, and yet so ready to share the darkest corners of his heart.  I befriended Sylvia because she was such a force, and yet a very good friend.  My book's end, my emotions were raw from the seemingly endless roller coaster, and yet there were surprises STILL to come...but I wouldn't trade a moment of it!

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A Holly Jolly Ever After

by

Julie Murphy and Sierra Simone

9780063222649

Avon Books

Okay, so we're stepping away from the historical and right into Contemporary Romance, but, and I don't say this lightly, it comes with A LOT OF SPICE.  We're talking cinnamon candy canes served with hot chocolate spiked with Tabasco sauce (if ONLY that!), so if you're strictly a closed door reader, do not embark on this read.  Capisce? (Understand?)  Good, good, now let's talk about a story that's a bit more naughty.

As I said, there is A LOT going on here, but despite the front and center "stuff", it's not JUST about that.  There's so much more going on than who's riding in Santa's sleigh tonight (*ahem*).  It's a story about family, and not just those related by blood because they don't always turn out to be the ones that have your back.  It's about being comfortable being you, and not accepting the shame others put on you for being or doing something different than they think you should.  It's about finding your own path in this world regardless of your upbringing.  Let's face it, parents are winging it too, and Winnie really got the cream of the crop in that department, but once she fell from grace, so to speak, she was inadvertently freed from having to tow the line they laid out.  Once she took a step in a direction that was of her own choosing, she experienced more of life, and love than she believed possible.  Of course, we also get a bit of an education in the adult film industry, and see the unfortunate side effects of having one too many and dancing on a stage with "Santa's helpers", but even those moments have their place and time, and really a lot of those involved were better to her and for her than any of the "clean cut" crew she was formerly attached to.  Basically don't judge a book by it's cover, or a person by their line of work.  We all have multiple sides to us, and we all deserve to be loved for our whole selves.

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Keeper of the Lost Cities:  The Graphic Novel, Part 1

by

Shannon Messenger

Adapted by Celina Freen

Illustrated by Gabriella Chianello

9781534463363

Aladdin  |  Simon & Schuster

A young girl different from others at her school, and for most of her life, who is simply trying to fit in when she was meant to stand out, comes into her own in a world she didn't know existed, where her abilities are powers, and there are others like her, yet perhaps not as powerful...but the truth of why her past was hidden from her, might be the best kept secret of all...with unknown consequences if revealed.

This is a book series that I've always been curious about.  That being said, this is my first venture into it, and while I appreciated the grand scale of the artwork as well as the storytelling, I'm not certain that it was my best choice for giving this one a chance.  I liked it, I truly did, but I think I needed the details that a novel tends to have, and a graphic novel tends to drop.  There's nothing bad about the latter option, but this reader needed a little more "meat" to get by.  So, if you're a fan of the series, I say GO FOR IT.  If you're a Graphic Novel lover, take a chance!  If you're interested in the series, but new to it, and only dabble in the visual side of reading, I think you'd best stick with me and go for the full length novel first.

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The Enchanted Symphony

by

Julie Andrews and Emma Walton Hamilton

Illustrated by Elly MacKay

9781419763199

Abrams Kids

In this GORGEOUSLY illustrated storybook, we gain visual clarity of the loss we suffered as a people across the world when COVID-19 struck its mighty blow.  It shut the world down in portions at a time, and made gathering impossible for the sake of saving lives, and while that hurt us on a personal level, we still had electronic ways to connect...but what about those that made their living performing.  What about those that gave of themselves to bring joy, entertainment, and moments of escape to our lives?  True, you can tune into a recorded performance, download a movie, or listen to a collection of songs, but the impact of experiencing those live and in person, sitting/standing alongside others ensconced in the moment...there's nothing quite like it.  Whether you're listening to the masters of the age, seeing an on Broadway or way off Broadway performance, or collectively viewing the latest Hollywood has to offer, the moments are much different when experienced first hand.  COVID-19 stole those moments, and the livelihood of those that put them on display for us...but accepting defeat was like turning the lights off on the stage, or drawing the final curtain.  We had to hold on.  We had to have hope.  This story tells of the efforts of an artistic director in Barcelona, and the celebration they threw in honor of the arts...to an audience of plants.  Sounds absurd?  Well, so does having everyone in lock down 24/7, but it still happened and the world was better for it.  A tale to be shared with the young and young at heart, today and always.

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Fancy Meeting You Here

by

Julie Tieu

9780063245198

Avon Books

It's an opposites attract, grumpy/sunshine romcom that doesn't exactly end as brilliantly as I would have liked, but it stays true to characters just the same.  Elise and Ben are not the most obvious pair, and, quite honestly, I had a hard time picturing them together with the amount of time they spent apart, but I enjoyed getting to know more about each as the story progressed.  She had dreams and aspirations while being unable to say no to her friends, to the point that she was putting her own business on the line.  He had dreams, but the plans kept changing, and with his family in the political spotlight, it was pretty hard to catch a break away from that arena.  They both wanted to make it on their own, and oftentimes got in their own way, but the good, the bad, and the ultimately ugly they go through, brings them closer to the reality they both are reaching for.

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Courtesy of Cupid

by

Nashae Jones

9781665949279

Aladdin  |  Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing

RELEASE DATE:  01/02/24

This one is just getting ready to hit bookstore shelves, so I'm SO HAPPY to bring you the scoop pre pub!  (*yay me!*)  Cue the hearts and arrows aiming at mere mortals just looking for a connection...but get ready to change your mind about the diapered baby supposedly firing them!  This Middle Grade Fiction title is bringing the house and hallowed school halls down on the myths of old, as cupid turns out to be dear old mysteriously not around dad, and apparently his offspring get a bit of the power side of things as a kickback from that parentage.  I mean, it's the perfect time to unleash emotionally charged magic on a kid, right?  I mean who wouldn't want to throw the fate of happiness and love into the hands of a potentially angsty THIRTEEN YEAR OLD?!  Oye, I'm face palming here if only you could see me.

The thing is...this book not only brings the diversity in books readers are looking for, but the FUN too!  It may not appear to be relateable, but check this out...embarrassing parental units, uncontrollable feelings, uncertainty in love, unwanted face offs with friends, frenemies that shouldn't have been, and all while simply trying to navigate this one righteously individual life we've been given....am I right?  Are you feeling Erin's "pain" yet?  Don't worry...we all share it, in some fashion, and she's a smart cookie.  She'll figure it out in the end...it just might take a little extra embarrassment on her part, a little more truth shared with others as well as her self, and a bit of admitting she may not have been totally right (in using those powers without reading the handbook!).  Fans of the genre, make this the top of your list!

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Many many thanks to all the publishers, publicists, and authors that contributed to this final 2023 review roundup.  (THANK YOU!)  For more information on any of the titles listed, feel free to click through the links provided above.  All are available now with the exception of CUPID, but it's just about to join the others on a bookstore shelf near you.  I'd also like to thank my readers for sharing in this bookish journey with me.  We're sending 2023 off with a bang, but there's plenty more in store come 2024.

Until NEXT YEAR 😉, remember...if it looks good, READ IT!

Merry GIFT-mas...for one and all!

It’s the most MAGICAL time of the year and you know what that means...the holidays have arrived! In all the rush and the fuss, it’s easy to forget to make your own list and check it twice because we all know you’ve been nice...or at least naughty in a “still-on-the-nice-list” kind of way, right? Right! If not, you know you know someone that has, and I’m here to give you a little nudge in the direction of a couple titles that should be on those MUST BUY lists for your gifting needs. So whether you’re shopping for the kiddos, your grandparents, friends, or even yourself, there’s bound to be something bookishly delightful in today’s MERRY GIFT-MAS post! Ready, set, here we go… 

His Dark Materials:  Once Upon a Time in the North (GIFT EDITION)

by Phillip Pullman

Illustrated by Chris Wormell 

Knopf | November 13th, 2023

Once upon a time, I read the His Dark Materials trilogy.  Once upon a time, I was ensconced in the world of the North, Lyra, magical companions, DUST, and so much more.  Once upon a time is here once again in this beautifully rendered tale that sweeps us back into the story with gorgeous illustrations to steal your breath away.   If you read (or watched) any of the first stories, you'll remember Iorek Byrinson (the battle ready bear?) fondly, and even perhaps Lee Scoresby with a kind smile on your face.  This is the story of how they first met, so it's technically a prequel to the original trio of books, but that just means that those familiar and those just stepping into this magicial world are on equal footing.  You get to see the adventure before the biggest battle/quest has begun, while meeting those that will play memorable parts in the tales to come...all while having your eyes dazzled along with your mind because of the rich illustrations throughout.  It's an edition that collector's will adore, but readers will cherish just the same.

Three Tasks for a Dragon

by Eoin Colfer

Illustrated by P.J. Lynch 

Candlewick | October 2023

Dragons are definitely a thing right now (well, I guess they were always a thing, but I digress), and so it should come as no surprise that this tale of knights, dragons, and a maiden with magical powers (of a sort) caught my attention, and I think it might do just that for the readers in your life (even yourself!).  The illustrations are grand, the story one of the ages and yet new all the same, and it's something that can be shared with kiddos embarking on their own knightly quests because who doesn't love a challenge, especially when you get to turn the tables on the one's that sent you!

The Puppets of Spelhorst

by Kate DiCamillo

Illustrated by Julie Morstad 

Candlewick | October 2023

The author alone would have drawn my attention, but when combined with the curious cover and illustrations, and I was sold.  It's a shorter story in length, but big on presentation, and the first in a projected trilogy of tales.  Puppets of different walks of life, sharing a journey to a most unexpected end...but along the way they draw strength from one another, and build courage within to face whatever comes their way.  A tale that begs to be experienced, whether on ones own, or with an audience!

Oliver’s Great Big Universe

by Jorge Cham 

Amulet | September 2023

An 11 year-old boy taking on middle school while tackling subjects like the Big Bang, Mercury, and sun burps?  I can definitely see this one being a draw to fans of the Wimpy Kid series, and even MacKenzie Blue.  It totes the fact that Science is not a subject to be shunned, nor the person who has an interest in it (score one for STEAM!), and elevates the leading lad for his brainy triumphs.  Grant it, he has a side that could end him on the Naughty List, but who doesn't love a challenge, am I right?

Adventure Game Comics: The Beyond

by Jason Shiga 

Amulet | August 2023

Part book, part graphic novel....part story, part literary escape room, this is definitely a CURIOUS read indeed!  Although it is book 2 in the series, it seems to read perfectly fine on its own, and I'm loving the fact that we, the readers, only become privy to things along the way that the author and illustrator want us to.  We don't start out with all the facts, merely a direction, and it's up to us to follow in order to uncover where we are, why we are, and find a way out.  A good selection for hesitant readers, or those wanting to crossover from one reading style to another without embarking on a lengthy tome.

The Little Match Girl Strikes Back

by Emma Carroll

Illustrated by Lauren Child 

Candlewick | September 2023

Most have heard of the classic Little Match Girl, and while it's a story that spans the ages, this one was written for a new generation.  This one takes the sad tale and spins it in a new direction.  No longer is the little girl doomed to spend her last match on dreams and visions, but empowered to spark change in her circumstances and bring about a revolution (of a sort).  I love the powerful retelling, and the striking illustrations scattered throughout where the pops of color really bring it to life.   A great way to introduce the story of yesteryear, while setting the light of forward motion in the hearts of those taking those steps towards the future. 

Outcasts (Ferryman trilogy, Book 3)

by Claire McFall 

Walker Books US | October 2023

OMG.  When I saw this one land on my doorstep, I legit did a happy dance.  No, you don't understand!  If you haven't read any of the Ferryman trilogy, you really don't know what you're missing.  I've read the first, and second...the third (TADA!) is happily added to my own reading list, and I can't recommend this series of books enough for YA lit fans that love the lush world of folklore and legend brought to life, love found against impossible odds, strength found that could conquer death itself, and ultimately the realization of whether all that fighting, all that pushing against the norm was worth it in the end.  DON'T WALK, RUN TO SNAG THIS TRILOGY!

The Temple of Fortuna (The Wolf Den trilogy, Book 3)

by Elodie Harper 

Union Square & Co | November 23rd, 2023

Book three in The Wolf Den trilogy...of which I have still only read the first (don't judge!).  It's not that I didn't like the first one (you can see how much I did or did not right here on my site if you type the title into the little search bar over there on the left), it's just that it took me a bit because it was darker, and heavier than I imagined, and ye olde reading schedule has been a bit overbooked this year (hence to purposefully open December, and a bit of January...but watch out for February! 😁).  Perhaps I can catch a break and sneak back into the set, but this is definitely one for those that like some historical in their fiction, some romantic elements in their literature, but also keep it to the ADULT READERS because some of the topic matter is definitely geared in that direction.  Don't miss what I've heard has been a trilogy that has gotten better and better with each release!

A Holly Jolly Ever After

by Julie Murphy and Sierra Simone 

Avon Books | October 2023

A holiday rom-com with some steamy fun?  Yes please!  Sounds like just to ticket to heat up those cold winter nights...not that it's actually cold down here (we joke that our winter weather passed us last week), but that doesn't mean warming up is frowned at either.  😉  I'd come in from the cold to check out this tale of opposites attract, where catching feelings is easier than dodging a snow ball!

It Had to be a Duke (The Liars’ Club, book 1)

by Vivienne Lorret 

Avon Books | November 28th, 2023

I won this little beauty over on GoodReads (yeah, can you believe it because I STILL can't!), and I'm happy to say it was definitely a title on my wish list...so Merry Christmas to me! 🤶 Spinsters, dukes, enemies to lovers, and fake engagements...color me trope happy!  All I can say is that I love a good Historical Romance and this sounds like a great add to MY reading list, and even more so because it's the first of a new series!  Woo hoo!  Also...GORGEOUS cover, no?

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Special thanks to the publishers, and publicists for the copies for review and feature here today, and to the authors and illustrators for sharing their amazing talent.  (THANK YOU!)  For more information on any titles featured above, feel free to click through the links provided.  Don't forget to snag your copies when you're out and about this holiday season because books are definitely the gift that keeps on giving!

Until next time, happy holidays and remember...if it looks good, READ IT!

We Live, We Learn, We Remember... DOUBLE Review!

Hello again!

Welcome back to another exciting day here on Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers.

Some of you are frequent visitors (I'm hugging you right now!), some not so frequent (high fives all around!), and others still simply stumbled across my site looking for something in the world wide web 🌐 ... mad props to all of you reading this from the bottom of my heart! We live, we learn, we remember...a curious post title, but most appropriate for today's feature because we have two Historical works on deck, however one takes its place on fiction, the other is specifically non. So, if you're ready to add to your must read piles, read on my friend, read on...

The War Pianist

by

Mandy Robotham

9780008564308

Avon Books

Presented to you in the order in which I read them, this first title is the work of Fiction. We go behind the lines and into the life of Marnie Fern. 

She's no soldier, but she's about to have a big impact on the war effort, as will the people she's in contact with both near and far. Speaking of far, the Pianist part of the title is referring to a talented radio operator, as in a person that would take the risk to help transmit messages across the wires in order to move the war forward, aid the resistance, and find peace amongst the rubble their lives were turned into. In this case, Marnie after she takes up the mantle of someone that came before her, someone she cared for deeply, trusted implicitly, and misses like no other. That well worn connection serves her well in her darkest hours, as does the new relationship she has with Willem. 

It's not what you think; it's a relationship built around secrets, ultimate trust, and genuine need, that serves the greater good.  Through everything they encounter, they never lose heart... and eventually their efforts show results, but it's not without heartache, and loss along the way. You truly feel for them both, as well as their cohorts, as this story unfolds. There was so much danger, so many times that turning a blind eye would have been easier, moments when giving in was certainly the simpler option, but the strength of character they showed, the morals they stuck to, and the backbone they shared with those that needed their fair share, made them people you'd want to know. 

Speaking of people you'd want to know, that brings us to our second book...

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

The Girl Who Survived Auschwitz

by

Sara Leibovits & Eti Elboim

9780008600280

One More Chapter 

This title is the Nonfiction book. This tale shares in story format the recollections of Sara Leibovits, as well as the impact the events had on her life, both during the imprisonment and after. We also get an insider's view of the far reaching impact these atrocities had on the life of her daughter, Eti Elboim, a second generation survivor... and beyond. 

It's not that they choose to live in the past, unwilling to move forward, but rather they choose to remember and share all that transpired as a means of never forgetting those that were lost, nor the hatred that generated enough momentum to try and destroy a people. This work is yet another triumph over those times, proof that the people at the target center of all that rage are still here, making memories, building lives, creating futures that someone tried to tell them they were not entitled to. No one has that right. No one should ever have that right. 

Stepping between these pages was often difficult, but experiencing the events in person seems impossible... surviving them, even more so... and yet, she did, as did others, and as remarkable as that seems, it's still a crime against humanity that should have never occurred. The best way to prevent it from happening again... awareness, remembrance, open minds, and open hearts. 

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Special thanks to both the publishers listed, and their fabulous publicists for the copies for review. (THANKS!) For more information on these titles, the authors, or the publishers, feel free to click through the links provided above. Both titles are now available, so make a plan to visit your local brick and mortar or click on over to your favorite online retailer!

Until next time, remember...if it looks good, READ IT!

THE VISCOUNT MADE ME DO IT by Diana Quincy - REVIEW!

Hi there!

Welcome back to Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers.

Don't ever say that I don't deliver because today we're shining the review spotlight on a recent HarperCollins Publishers release from author Diana Quincy!  Her latest addition to her Clandestine Affairs Historical Romance series via Avon Books features a feisty leading lady at the center of a potential crime, an appreciative leading man with his own agenda, and a chance at something more that neither saw coming...but there is oh so much more!  Ready or not, feast your eyes on today's title in the spotlight and ebook of choice...

The Viscount Made Me Do It

Clandestine Affairs, Book 2

by

Diana Quincy

Avon Books

About the book...

A seduction that could ruin everything...

Hanna Zaydan has fought to become London’s finest bonesetter, but her darkly appealing new patient threatens to destroy everything she’s worked so hard for. The daughter of Arab merchants is slowly seduced by the former soldier — even though she’s smart enough to know Griff is after more than he’ll reveal. Whatever it is, the bonesetter’s growing desire for the man just might tempt her to give it to him.

An attraction that cannot be denied...

Rumors that he killed his own parents have followed Thomas Ellis, Viscount Griffin, practically since he was a boy. More than a decade after the tragedy, Griff receives a tip about his parents’ killer… one that takes him straight to a captivating bonesetter. Griff is convinced Hanna is a fraud, but the dark-eyed beauty stirs deep feelings in him that he thought had perished along with his family.

Hanna has a gift for fixing fractured people, but can she also mend a broken heart? More importantly, will Griff let her?

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Hanna was a bonesetter, just as her father was before her.  Viscount Griffin was a man of title with a past he'd rather forget.  Both had big shoes to fill, while discovering their own journey's in life, and while separate ways has its advantage, togetherness has much to be said for itself as well.  

I really REALLY loved this one!

The characters were memorable, the story original, the backstory unique, and the way everything played out SUPERB! Comeuppance was received, just desserts served, and happily ever afters found.  The leading lady (Hanna) was a strong character and while she'd love another to share her life's journey with, she didn't see it in the cards, and that was still okay!  Given the times, it wasn't acceptable to the ton, but she was content to do what she felt was her calling and serve the people as opposed to host parties and attend teas.  Our leading man (Griff) was strong himself, both physical strength was certainly not all that was needed what with his family history, and all the secrets about the come to light.  While his position allowed him to be doted on my the debutantes and their mothers, he wanted something more if he was to partake of it at all.  When Griff was faced with Hanna's true nature, he was gobsmacked despite not wanting to be.  He had set out on a mission to solve a mystery from his past, and unwittingly discovered his potential future...the same being said for her.  As with many love stories, this one had its fair share (and then some!) of obstacles, and many times it didn't look like things would come to an agreeable end, but I have to say the final scenes were well worth waiting for, and no, I won't ruin them for you...you'll have to discover this fabulous pair yourself!

If you're a Historical Romance fan, you won't want to miss this one!  It's got all the humor, all the drama, all the suspense, and all the heart you could hope for and then some!  You'll laugh as a young dandy is taught a lesson about wasting a lady's time, and when the title of the book comes into play in the story!  You'll cry at the outrage of how family can treat family.  You'll blush at a few encounters, while still knowing in your heart of hearts that they are meant to be.  You'll gasp as certain realizations are reached, hold you breath as things take a sharp turn towards danger, and ponder the eventual outcome of it all while you turn the pages.  A great read with a great leading pair that you won't soon forget!

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About the author...

Bestselling author Diana Quincy is an Emmy-nominated former television journalist who decided she'd rather make up stories where a happy ending is always guaranteed in the Regency world of dashing dukes, irresistible rogues, and the bold women who capture their hearts.

As a U.S. Foreign Service brat, Diana grew up roaming the world, but is now happily settled in Virginia with her husband and two sons. When not bent over her laptop or trying to keep up with laundry, she enjoys reading, spending time with her family, and dreaming up her next travel adventure.

Diana loves to hear from readers. You can follow her on Twitter or visit her website at www.dianaquincy.com. To learn more about Diana's upcoming books and for sneak previews and other special exclusive giveaways, please consider signing up for her quarterly newsletters at www.dianaquincy.com.

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Special thanks to Julie at HarperCollins Publishers for the eARC for review. (THANK YOU!) For more information on this title, the author, or the publisher, feel free to click through the links provided above. This title just celebrated its book birthday via Avon Books, an imprint of HarperCollins Publishers, so be on the lookout for it on a bookstore shelf or virtual retailer of your choosing. 

Until next time, remember...if it looks good, READ IT!

Happy BOOK BIRTHDAY to... THE VISCOUNT MADE ME DO IT by Diana Quincy!

Hi there!

Welcome back to Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers.

Today, we're joining HarperCollins Publishers to celebrate the BOOK BIRTHDAY of author Diana Quincy's latest release via Avon Books. It's the second title in her Clandestine Affairs Historical Romance series and features a feisty leading lady at the center of a potential crime, an appreciative leading man with his own agenda, and a chance at something more that neither saw coming. Ready or not, feast your eyes on today's title in the spotlight...

The Viscount Made Me Do It

Clandestine Affairs, Book 2

by

Diana Quincy

Avon Books

About the book...

A seduction that could ruin everything...

Hanna Zaydan has fought to become London’s finest bonesetter, but her darkly appealing new patient threatens to destroy everything she’s worked so hard for. The daughter of Arab merchants is slowly seduced by the former soldier — even though she’s smart enough to know Griff is after more than he’ll reveal. Whatever it is, the bonesetter’s growing desire for the man just might tempt her to give it to him.

An attraction that cannot be denied...

Rumors that he killed his own parents have followed Thomas Ellis, Viscount Griffin, practically since he was a boy. More than a decade after the tragedy, Griff receives a tip about his parents’ killer… one that takes him straight to a captivating bonesetter. Griff is convinced Hanna is a fraud, but the dark-eyed beauty stirs deep feelings in him that he thought had perished along with his family.

Hanna has a gift for fixing fractured people, but can she also mend a broken heart? More importantly, will Griff let her?

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

About the author...

Bestselling author Diana Quincy is an Emmy-nominated former television journalist who decided she'd rather make up stories where a happy ending is always guaranteed in the Regency world of dashing dukes, irresistible rogues, and the bold women who capture their hearts.

As a U.S. Foreign Service brat, Diana grew up roaming the world, but is now happily settled in Virginia with her husband and two sons. When not bent over her laptop or trying to keep up with laundry, she enjoys reading, spending time with her family, and dreaming up her next travel adventure.

Diana loves to hear from readers. You can follow her on Twitter or visit her website at www.dianaquincy.com. To learn more about Diana's upcoming books and for sneak previews and other special exclusive giveaways, please consider signing up for her quarterly newsletters at www.dianaquincy.com.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Special thanks to Julie at HarperCollins Publishers for the eARC for review. (THANK YOU!) For more information on this title, the author, or the publisher, feel free to click through the links provided above. This title just celebrated its book birthday TODAY (*throws confetti*) via Avon Books, an imprint of HarperCollins Publishers, so be on the lookout for it on a bookstore shelf or virtual retailer of your choosing. STAY TUNED for my review COMING SOON right here on Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers!

Until next time, remember...if it looks good, READ IT!

I'm cleaning off my...BOOKSHELF! Prepare for BLOGAPALOOZA 2.0!

Hi there!
Welcome back to Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers.





Today is being renamed.
It is no longer Tuesday.
Today is now BLOGAPALOOZA...
...or maybe REVIEW-APALOOZA...
 ...oh heck, pick whichever one you like as long as you add a 2.0 after it, but it boils down to me having WAY TO LITTLE time to do the things I love like reading and reviewing, still accomplishing it to some degree, and my desire to clean out the GIANT stack I've collected with titles that need to be reviewed. So...



...welcome to TOTAL REVIEW-ALATION!
*giggle*

Instead of SEVERAL posts, I'm going to do one BIG post with A LOT of books for you to peruse, consider, and possibly add to your future reading list. Props will be given to writers, publishers, and the lot, and links will be supplied for further clickage should you so desire, while the actual review itself will be kept to a minimum...and don't smirk at me like that, I can TOTALLY keep it short...maybe, possibly...I'll try.
Ready? Set? Here we go!

The Secret Messenger

by

Mandy Robotham

9780008384623

HarperCollins

Released:  06/23/20

A thoroughly moving story set with a dual story line, I took my time, savored it, and I regret nothing. This heart wrenching and beautiful tale of present meeting past, shares how uncovering those truths from yesteryear are not just family history, but a way of making a connection to your true self.  They always say you can't know where you're going unless you know where you've been, and this story is a prime example.  Luisa had lost not just her family, but her way, and discovering the why of things from her past really helped to heal her heart in the here and now.  It's not an easy journey to read because the life and times of Stella (her ancestor) were fraught with danger, deception, and mistrust...but it wasn't all doom and gloom.  Through her words, she helped keep hopes and dreams alive.  With the help of others, they spread the news that needed to be heard as well as shared stories to uplift their downtrodden spirits.  A definite must read with a surprise revelation at book's end!

After All

Romancing Manhattan, Book 3

by

Kristen Proby

9780062892683

Avon Books

Released:  07/14/20

Carter Shaw and Nora Hayes... *sigh*...how did I NOT know about this series before the final one was being released?  Not to worry, I'm actively seeking out the first two because I seriously want to get to know the other partners in the firm and their tales of romance since the glimpses I caught of them from this story sounded really good!  Anyway, back to this story...it falls squarely in the workplace romance trope with a good dash of friends-to-lovers thrown into the mix.  He's a workaholic that loves his daughter to a fault, but misses his beloved with every beat of his heart.  She's been his executive assistant for many years, married during several of them in fact, and would do anything for both him and his daughter...but the heated glance she catches one day was something she wasn't prepared for.  I mean, they're both single and able to mingle, but as well as they work together, can they do the same outside of the office?  Though both have things to prove on both sides (some more than others with their boneheadedness), it was heart warming and toe tingling to watch it all unfold.  Oh and yes, recommended audience would be adults in this one.

Hello, Summer 

by

Mary Kay Andrews

9781250256928

St. Martin's Press

Released:  05/05/20

This isn't the first book by this author that I've read, and it certainly won't be the last.  I really love how she brings the area I live in to life, and makes you a part of the story. You really get to know the sisters, and what has come between them.  There some truly memorable characters here, for better or worse, and the story certainly doesn't disappoint with unexpected twists and turns.  The mystery at the heart of it all doesn't overshadow the family connections being made (or broken!), but it does, in fact, affect them.  Conley had so much ground to make up to bridge who she was with who she is versus the who she wants to be...but in the end, she not only gets the big scoop, but also grows to understand that not all things small town are truly small, and it certainly doesn't change their importance.

Postscript

P.S. I Love You, Book 2

by

Cecelia Ahern

9781538746592

Grand Central Publishing

Released:  02/11/20

Okay, so I entered this one at a disadvantage.  I had not read the original book (and still haven't...yet) prior to reading this and while I ADORED the film, I can't help but think the book may have been dramatically different, at least in the case of our leading lady, Holly.  She seemed much more despondent than I imagined her to be after everything that transpired.  I mean, I wasn't expecting her to jump for joy over all the little things in life, but she seemed so un-Holly that I had a hard to connecting with her.  What is being asked of her by those in the P.S. I Love You group, going through similar things like her dearly departed, would be understandably hard...but, and perhaps it's my outsider perspective as observer versus participant, I would have thought she could more easily see the beauty, the assist, the heavy heart help that she was providing.  Not that it was her job, not that she had to flay her heart open again, these seven years later, for essentially strangers, but they weren't really strangers now, were they?  They were connected by something that those of us living our every day lives don't even consider on the regular...the countdown to the end of their time.  So, for me, the story was good, and I enjoyed things far more when she really got started, but until that point, it was a hard climb.  Perhaps if you've read the first, or when I backtrack and do so, the character and her reactions will make more sense.

Peter Green and the Unliving Academy

The Unliving Chronicles, Book 1

by

Angelina Allsop

9781631610646

TCK Publishing

Released: 

Story wise, it was definitely unique, totally enjoyable, and VERY curious...I mean come on!  The concept alone screams READ ME!  Now there were times that it was a bit slow to move forward and continue that storyline development, but it did get there...and a few other times that it was jumpy, making you feel you might have missed something.  Grant it, not what you aim for, but still...it detract from the overall effect. Character wise, we have a fairly GINORMOUS cast, and while that can spell trouble because when you introduce characters unnecessarily, it can just clog the works...here, it doesn't and they DO have their special moments!  Layout wise, which I don't always comment on, I can't say I was a fan.  Sorry, but the small font with large pages (cross between trade paper and hardback book size), throws off my reading; it may just be a me thing, but still notable. Now if we can talk about that cover because it is TOTAL PERFECTION!  It's' creepy, intriguing, mysterious, and spot on with visually introducing us to Pete, while drawing us in further because I don't know about you, but I NEEDED to know what that building was behind him, why it looked like he was running from it, and just why was he dressed like a little gangster! 

Harold and the Poopy Little Puppy

by

Ellie Crowe

Illustrated by Janet King

9781631610530

TCK Publishing

Released:  August 2018

Harold is the family dog.  Beloved, treasured, snuck treats when possible, but he's not the only fur kid on the block anymore.  Enter, Prince...his new...best friend?  Not exactly.  Introducing a puppy into a family has it's challenges, but they can certainly be unique if there is already another dog in the mix.  You have to make sure they BOTH feel loved, no one feels overlooked, and jealousy doesn't reign supreme, or you can be in for many "surprises" along the way.  Harold learns the hard way at first and just when he's beginning to think he'll forever be in the doghouse, things take a turn for the better, and love, even from his scruffy little sidekick, prevails.  An entertaining, yet engaging story for young readers and those simply young at heart!

Timmy Failure: Mistakes Were Made

Timmy Failure, Book 1

by

Stephan Pastis

9781536209075

Candlewick

Released: February 2020

You know how all books are not for all readers and some books work SO MUCH BETTER when read aloud?  Yeah, this was definitely the case with the particular book and myself.  I was all ready to throw in the towel because quite honestly, I couldn't believe what I was reading.  I get it is for a much younger audience than I, but I read a fairly large amount of Children's Fiction and even Picture Books, so the fact that this one was giving me fits was enough to aggravate.  HOWEVER, in my exasperated state, I tried reading several passages aloud to illustrate the absurdity of what was happening...and you know what?  It.  Changed.  EVERYTHING.  I'm not saying I'm a diehard Timmy fan now, because yeah...I'll leave that to the fandoms, however I could appreciate the humor, the jokes, the ridiculous nature of some situations and the whole investigation into the missing candy THAT much better with all my gesturing, vocal variations, and moments of acting out.  So why yes, not all books are for all readers, if you've a kiddo in the house that likes to use their imagination, and you happen to have a few moments to spare to enhance the adventure, I highly suggest a read aloud session with this book!

The Hippo at the End of the Hall

by

Helen Cooper

9781536204483

Candlewick

Released: October 2019

This story was as magical as the cover, nay the title suggests!  You've got messages delivered by bees, invitations to curious museums with even curiouser sites on display, mysterious curators that feel oddly familiar, and a scheme to bring it all to the ground for the sake of a few dollars made.  It was  wonderful to get to know Ben and all the unexpected characters between these pages, including an actual witch (to be scared or not be scared...that's a HARD question!), and the hippo that the title hints at.  A definite recommend for readers who like a little adventure, who aren't afraid to let loose their imaginations, and can't stand to let go of the last strands of hope.

War is Over

by

David Almond

Illustrated by David Litchfield

9781536209860

Candlewick

Released: May 2020

There is never a time that this book wouldn't be relevant...and yet that's not exactly reassuring.  It speaks to readers about war and how impossible it seems to be at ends with an entire people.  How can the acts of one condemn them all?  How can someone that looks just like you or me, be the enemy?  How can we create things that cause utter destruction to end wars and not think of the consequences of using that force?  It will raise a lot of questions, and answer several of them too, but it also passes on a message of peace, a message to look for the other solutions before turning to such a final act.

McTavish Goes Wild

by

Meg Roseff

Illustrated by Grace Easton

9781536203318

Candlewick

Released: May 2020

The ironic part of this book was that I picked it up to read at the same time as the previous one listed (War is Over) and they BOTH have character's named McTavish.  I suppose that doesn't seem that unusual based on where they are centered, but for my own reading, that name doesn't come up too often, and even in this situation, they are at very different ends of the spectrum.  Just goes to show you the name does not make the person. Anywho...the McTavish here is a dog and he's GONE WILD, or so the title says, but the wild he goes is in order to get the family back on the same page.  It's a creative way to handle things, but it works because they band together and stop their squabbling (eventually) to track him down.  Perhaps we all need a McTavish in our lives to make us slow down and appreciate what's right in front of us.

The Rise of Zombert
Zombert series, Book 1

by

Kara LaReau

Illustrated by Ryan Andrews

9781536201062

Releases: July 2020

I don't generally do zombie books, and I seem to say that same thing every time one crops up in my reading pile, but it's true.  They're generally too MUSUT EAT BRAINS focused for my liking...although this time around, it's a cat.  Different for certain, but still MUST EAT BRAINS focused even if neither the girl with gentle hands nor the curious boy REALLY understands why...or Bert for that matter!  I was actually quite surprised when I reached book's end as I didn't realize it would be a series, but sure enough...there are more adventures to come.  Good news?  I like to think so, and I mean really, where are you going to find such a courteous, protective, and sharing kitty as this unique little guy?  Be warned though...it's not a sunshine and butterflies sort of read.  Zombert has to eat those brains from somewhere and well, they say fresh is better.  *ahem*  All in all, it's a tale of survival, a tale of making your own way, a tale of never giving up and not being afraid to speak your mind...after all, how else is anyone suppose to know what you're all about if you don't?  Creepy fun for everyone!

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Special thanks to the publishers listed above for the review copies received both in tree and "e" form. (THANKS!) For more information on any of the titles mentioned, feel free to click through the links provided above.

Until next time, remember...if it looks good, READ IT!