Books & Wheels

Meet Me at the Lake by Carley Fortune

I enjoyed Meet Me at the Lake, but it didn’t have the same appeal as Every Summer After. Fortunately, there is no cheating trope in sight.

Synopsis

Fern Brookbanks has moved back home after her mother’s tragic passing to take over her lakeside resort. At thirty-two, it’s not the path Fern expected her life to take. Fern is still deciding whether to sell the resort or continue running it herself.

Her world gets shaken up again when Will, a man from her past, shows up, offering his services to help improve the resort’s business.

Ten years ago, Will and Fern met and spent a whirlwind day together, telling each other their hopes and dreams. They promised to meet again one year later at the resort. Fern showed up. Will did not.

Review of Meet Me at the Lake

This contemporary romance follows Fern’s perspective and alternates between the past and present.

As with her debut, Carley Fortune deftly draws the reader in and makes them feel like they’re right there with the characters.

I enjoyed this one, but I didn’t feel like it had the same magic as Every Summer After. Too much of the story hinged on the single day they spent together ten years ago. It’s hard to believe that they would form such a strong connection in one day, and a decade later, still expect them to be the same person with the same wants and needs.

Thus, I much preferred reading the present over the past timeline. It made me feel the feels, even though Will was pretty secretive about his personal life.

If you enjoy second-chance romances, then I think you’ll thoroughly enjoy this book.

My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5

Expected Publication: 02 May 2023

Thank you to Penguin Random House Canada for providing an arc via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

For regular reading updates, check out my Goodreads profile.

For past reviews, click here.

We Are a Haunting by Tyriek White

We Are a Haunting is a lyrical literary debut with a sprinkling of magical realism.

Synopsis

It follows three generations of New Yorkers over thirty years. Grandma Audrey lives in Brooklyn and is on the verge of losing her apartment. Before she passed, her daughter Key could speak to the dead. Key’s son Colly grieves his mother’s death and learns he has a similar gift, all while navigating a world filled with injustices.

Review of We Are a Haunting

The writing in this debut novel is poetic. It’s more slice-of-life and focuses on moments of these characters’ lives. The timeline skips around with each character’s pov.

It discusses a range of topics, including systemic issues and generational trauma.

At times, I struggled with this book’s lack of a plot. I normally prefer character-driven fiction, but this one meandered quite a bit and was difficult for me to follow.

Although, I can see this book resonating with many readers.

My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5

Expected Publication: 25 April 2023

Thank you to Astra House for providing an arc via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

For regular reading updates, check out my Goodreads profile.

For past reviews, click here.

Greek Lessons by Han Kang

I liked The Vegetarian when I read it years ago, so when I saw Han Kang’s latest offering, I snatched it up. Unfortunately, Greek Lessons went mostly over my head. Even though it’s quite short, it’s one you may want to take your time with.

Synopsis

This story follows a young woman who signs up for Ancient Greek Language lessons after losing her voice. Meanwhile, her Greek Language instructor is losing his sight.

Review of Greek Lessons

As the title suggests, this book examines language and the variety of ways people communicate. It is very introspective and philosophical-leaning.

The writing is stunning, as you’d expect from this author. Deborah Smith and Emily Yae Won translated it beautifully.

Even though the writing was exceptional, it felt detached. I don’t need to connect or relate to characters, but if I feel there is any distance, or detachment in the writing style, then it’s hard for me to become invested in the story, which was the case here.

If you enjoy philosophy and languages, you may enjoy this novel. It’s been years since I’ve studied Greek, so bumbling my way through the few bits in this book was fun.

My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️

Expected Publication: 18 April 2023

Thank you to Random House for providing an arc via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

For regular reading updates, check out my Goodreads profile.

For past reviews, click here.

The Bone Shard War by Andrea Stewart

The Bone Shard War answers all the questions from the previous books and has a bittersweet ending.

Synopsis

This third and final book takes place two years after the events in Book Two.

Lin’s grasp on the empire is still slippery, even after defeating the construct army. She’s up against the Shardless Few, Ragan, and often, her governors. And she hasn’t seen Jovis since he left to rescue Mephi. In short, her allies are in limited supply, and people’s allegiances change with the wind.

Review of The Bone Shard War

This instalment follows the same POVs as the previous books. Nearly every chapter ends on a cliffhanger, which makes this a compelling read despite the length.

It’s an addictive fantasy series that improves with each book. Characters I didn’t much care for in the first book I came to love by the end, characters like Phalue. In book one, she was just sort of there and was a bit obtuse, but she went through a wonderful character arc showcasing her strength and love for her family.

The question of what’s causing the islands to sink is finally answered. I did not see it coming, but looking back, it makes sense.

My only issue was that it took Jovis quite a while to realize he already had the skill set to free himself. He had been using those skills since he was a smuggler.

I read the whole trilogy in the span of about six weeks. I tend to forget what happened in previous books, so binging the series worked well for me.

I’m a bit sad to see the series come to an end, but I can’t wait to see what else Andrea Stewart comes out with next.

My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5

Expected Publication: 18 April 2023

You can read my reviews of the first two books here and here.

Thank you to Orbit for providing me with an arc in exchange for an honest review.

For regular reading updates, check out my Goodreads profile.

For past reviews, click here.

The Only Survivors by Megan Miranda

The Only Survivors is an atmospheric thriller following a cast of characters dealing with survivors’ guilt.

Synopsis

Since a tragic accident on a school trip ten years ago, the nine remaining survivors made a pact to reconvene on the yearly anniversary.

Cassidy Bent is one of the nine survivors, but she would like to move on, so she’s cut the others out of her life. That was her plan until she received an email about the yearly gathering with an obituary link to one of the survivors.

When Cassidy arrives at the meeting house, the vibes are off, and a few feel like someone is watching them.

Review of The Only Survivors

This thriller follows Cassidy’s perspective with alternating chapters from the survivors at the time of the accident.

The characters all have distinct personalities, so there was no getting them mixed up. Even though they were distinct, they were underdeveloped. But it’s a thriller, so I don’t always expect stellar characterizations, especially when dealing with so many characters.

The story became much more interesting to me when the chapters about the accident began. Before that, it was hard to understand their motivations for meeting annually when it appeared they were barely friends.

The ending picked up the pace, and some reveals were surprising, if not mind-blowing.

I had fun reading this one. And although I only finished it a few days ago, I can barely remember the details. So it may not be that memorable of a read, but it is enjoyable in the moment.

If you enjoy slow burn thrillers brimming with atmosphere, you may like this one.

My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5

Expected Publication: 11 April 2023

Thank you to Marysue Rucci Books for providing an arc via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

For regular reading updates, check out my Goodreads profile.

For past reviews, click here.

The Bone Shard Emperor by Andrea Stewart

I enjoyed The Bone Shard Emperor even more than the first book.

Synopsis

Book Two begins shortly after the events of Book One. Lin is now the emperor, and she must garner the support of her people to maintain stability and keep her throne. Also, Jovis must adjust to his new role and decide where his loyalties lay. Meanwhile, his animal companion, Mephi, is as adorable and funny as ever. Then, there is Nisong, who is out for blood and revenge. Plus, the rebellion is gaining more influence.

While all of this is occurring, islands are still sinking, and no one knows why.

Review of The Bone Shard Emperor

The reader learns more about the Alanga, and it is surprisingly unexpected. It adds another compelling layer to the story.

In Book Two, Lin comes into her own. In The Bone Shard Daughter, I wanted a little more from her. She is still trying to find her footing but is willing to take more risks. She is compassionate, but she is learning to be more ruthless.

As with Book One, the plot moves along incrementally. But the pacing doesn’t suffer because the characters are so compelling. Whether you are rooting for them or not, they are all well-developed.

This instalment has a lot more politicking and betrayals.

It all leads up to a huge battle that has ramifications for the third and final book, which, thankfully, I already have in my hands. I’ll be diving into it very soon.

I am happy that this offering did not suffer from second book syndrome. If you’re looking for your next addictive fantasy series, this is it.

You can read my review of The Bone Shard Daughter here.

My Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5

Available Now.

Thank you to Orbit for sending me a finished copy to review.

For regular reading updates, check out my Goodreads profile.

For past reviews, click here.

Chrysalis by Anna Metcalfe

Chrysalis is about one woman’s transformation and the people that orbit her.

Synopsis

This story is about a nameless but enigmatic woman, told from the perspectives of three people. First, Elliot. He obsesses over her and watches her strengthen her body after she reveals she suffered trauma. Second, her mother, Bella. She felt helpless raising her, and now she observes as her daughter’s lifestyle impacts strangers’ lives. And third, Susie, her coworker, whose life felt empty until she moved into her apartment.

They all watch as she strengthens her body and mind and begins to post viral videos that advocate for her viewers to take drastic measures to acquire true self-sufficiency.

Review of Chrysalis

When I first read the blurb, it reminded me of The Vegetarian: the outside POVs and a woman who doesn’t conform to society. After reading it, I’d say that’s where the similarities end. This is a wholly unique story.

It’s about the different forms of isolation and the effects that come from it, including loneliness, solitude and sometimes, independence.

It was interesting to watch these people latch onto this woman and her own seemingly unfeeling attitude toward them. Each narrator has their own idealized view of who she is, and they can’t compute when she doesn’t fit in that box.

This is a strange book that will keep you thinking about it long after you’ve finished reading it.

I will definitely read whatever Anna Metcalfe comes out with next.

My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Expected Publication: 11 April 2023

Thank you to Random House for providing an arc via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

For regular reading updates, check out my Goodreads profile.

For past reviews, click here.

Homecoming by Kate Morton

Homecoming is a slow-burn generational mystery set in Australia.

Synopsis

A family tragedy on Christmas Eve of 1959 in Adelaide, Australia, remains mostly unsolved sixty years later.

Jessica, a struggling journalist, returns to Australia after receiving a call that her grandmother Nora suffered a fall. Jess is surprised to find Norma, a typically energetic and bright woman, confused and small, in her hospital bed.

While staying at her grandmother’s home, Jess discovers a true-crime book linking the decades-old Christmas Eve tragedy to her family. Jess begins to investigate what happened all those years ago.

Review of Homecoming

This historical mystery has multiple POVs, two timelines and contains a book within a book. It looks at mother-daughter relationships, identity, and belonging. It also considers mental health during a period when these conversations were not openly discussed.

There are several threads to this mystery. Some are glaringly obvious from the beginning, but others might be a surprise. I did not see one of the final reveals at all, but the breadcrumbs were there.

I love reading books set in Australia, and Morton brought the 1960s setting to life. The descriptions of the landscape are vivid, and the heat is palpable.

The only problem I had with this book was the length. Usually, I love chunky books; they give the reader lots of time to get invested in the story and characters. But with this one, at times, it felt like a slog.

If you enjoy dual timelines with a bit of mystery, you may also enjoy Homecoming.

My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Expected Publication: 04 April 2023

Thank you to Simon & Schuster Canada for providing an arc via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

For regular reading updates, check out my Goodreads profile.

For past reviews, click here.

The Bone Shard Daughter by Andrea Stewart

The hype surrounding The Bone Shard Daughter is well-deserved.

Synopsis

Lin is aware that her father’s rule is waning. The animal-like constructs he uses to maintain his empire are no longer sufficient to keep rebellion at bay.

Lin is the rightful heir to the empire, but her father has other plans. If she fails to meet his expectations, he will enthrone her adopted brother instead. Lin will do whatever it takes to ensure she inherits the empire.

The emperor maintains his power using his bone-shard magic to fuel his animal-like constructs. It is said that the emperor’s rule is the only thing keeping the mysterious Alanga from returning.

However, rebellion is brewing and not everyone believes the emperor serves a purpose anymore.

And then, there is Jovis, a smuggler who is only trying to survive and find his wife.

Review of The Bone Shard Daughter

This first instalment is a lot of fun. It follows multiple perspectives across the empire. It introduces a unique magic system, intriguing world-building, and characters to care about, especially Mephi, a kitten-like creature.

At times, it did feel like a long-winded introduction; however, the last quarter zips by and more than made up for the slow start.

I can’t wait to see what the next book has in store. I’m curious about getting more information on Mephi, the Alanga, and why Deerhead Island sunk.

Typically, I only post reviews of new releases on this blog, but since Orbit was kind enough to send me the whole series, I will be sharing those reviews in the coming weeks in preparation for the third and final book, The Bone Shard War.

My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Now Available.

Thanks again to Orbit for sending me a finished copy in exchange for an honest review.

For regular reading updates, check out my Goodreads profile.

For past reviews, click here.

The Berry Pickers by Amanda Peters

The Berry Pickers is an immersive and stunningly written debut novel by Amanda Peters.

Synopsis

Every summer, a Mi’kmaq family travels from Nova Scotia to Maine to pick berries. A few weeks into the season, the youngest child, Ruthie, vanishes without a trace. Her older brother Joe was the last person to see her. That fact will sit heavy with him for years to come.

Norma grows up in a wealthy household but is plagued with dreams that she cannot understand. And her loving but controlling mother refuses to discuss them. As Norma grows older, she realizes her parents are hiding something from her.

Review of The Berry Pickers

This beautifully written novel follows Joe and Norma’s perspectives. This is a moving and powerful story with sprinkles of Indigenous humour here and there.

It discusses the loss of language and culture, the threat of residential schools, and MMIW. But it also shines a light on the importance of family. Even with the heavier topics, there is a sense of hopefulness by the end.

The story slowly drew me in, and by the end, I wished there were more pages. Both of the main characters completely captured my heart.

I highly recommend adding this wonderful debut to your TBR as soon as possible.

My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Expected Publication: 04 April 2023

Thank you to Harper Perennial for providing an arc via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

For regular reading updates, check out my Goodreads profile.

For past reviews, click here.