BOOK OF THE WEEK:

Title: “Funny Story” Author: Emily Henry Publisher: Berkley Format: 395 Pages, Hardcover. Genres: Romance, Fiction, Contemporary, Chick Lit, Audiobook, Adult Fiction. My Rating: 4.5/5

My Review: I rate this book 4.5 stars, reflecting its steamy forced proximity, friends-to-lovers dynamic, and opposites attract theme. I cannot rate an Emily Henry book lower than five stars.

While this isn't my top pick among her works—“Happy Place” holds that honor, and “People We Meet on Vacation” is my least favorite—all of her books tend to elevate themselves to my favorite romance reads of the year, even when a new release from Colleen Hoover is on the horizon. Yes, ColHo fans, I’m one of you too, but Emily Henry has a unique way of playing my heartstrings.

Let’s be real: Miles Nowak is the best boyfriend Emily has created! He’s caring, charming, selfless, easygoing, and adventurous — not just the ideal boyfriend but also the ultimate male friend any woman would desire. His irresistible appeal is just the icing on the cake. I usually find the heroes Emily creates a bit annoying, but Miles has surpassed them all with his genuine heart, sense of humor, and lack of selfishness!

I was initially hesitant to read this book because I’m not a fan of love triangles or ex-lover scenarios. They often complicate things and muddle emotions. Many characters get caught up in the past, which frustrates me.

Without giving away spoilers, I can say that the plot about becoming roommates with your ex-fiancée’s new girlfriend's ex-boyfriend is handled delicately. Both Daphne and Miles are smart and rational about their circumstances. When they find themselves in a fake dating situation, they share their thoughts openly, which is why I appreciated both characters. They acknowledge their flaws and avoid obsessing over their exes. They support each other through their challenges, leading to a beautiful friendship. I loved how they gradually lowered their defenses, exploring their own lives and the future ahead. They acted maturely and were careful not to become rebound partners, even as sparks flew between them.

The story revolves around Daphne, who cherishes the tale of how she met her fiancé Peter until he abruptly chooses his childhood friend Petra over her, giving her just a week to vacate their shared home while he heads to the Amalfi Coast with his new girlfriend! What a jerk! Feeling homeless and hopeless, Daphne, who left her old life behind for Peter, encounters Miles, Petra's recently dumped ex-boyfriend, at Peter’s door, and she asks if he has a spare room.

The dynamics become complex. Daphne, a reserved children’s librarian, finds herself living with the carefree, adventurous guy her ex-fiancé described as a pothead. However, after receiving an invitation to Peter and Petra's wedding, their relationship evolves following a night out at a bar, leading them to RSVP. Coincidentally, Peter makes a pity call, prompting Daphne to lie about her relationship with Miles. Thankfully, he goes along with it.

But what if Daphne misjudged Miles? This self-deprecating, friendly guy, who supports her during her library readings, takes her to new spots around town she’s never seen, helping her rediscover herself. Is he the one her heart seeks?

I adored Miles, and I loved the love story between him and Daphne, as well as the beautiful epilogue! No further words needed! Emily Henry never lets me down! She skillfully navigated this intricate relationship with the best possible outcome! Go read it, and then read it again!

BEST THRILLER BOOKS OF THE WEEK:

Title: “Darling Girls” Author: Sally Hepworth Publisher: St. Martin’s Press Format: 368 Pages, Hardcover. Genres: Thriller, Fiction, Mystery, Suspense, Crime, Contemporary, Adult, Audiobook. My Rating: 4.5/5

My Review: “Darling Girls” is a brilliantly crafted psychological mystery in the realm of women's fiction, showcasing Sally Hepworth’s remarkable storytelling ability. The story revolves around three girls who form a strong bond while living in a foster care home, united in their efforts to escape the manipulations of their cruel foster mother, Holly Fairchild, who subjects them to psychological torment.

The tale centers on Jessica, who entered Holly's care at just five years old. Yearning for her foster mother's affection, she endures isolation due to Holly's controlling nature. Norah, an eleven-year-old with a violent streak born out of necessity, and Alicia, a gentle twelve-year-old who joins them after a family tragedy, complete the trio. For nearly two years, the girls endure Holly's abuse until it escalates, forcing them to confront their painful history.

Fast forward 25 years: Jessica’s life unravels as she’s caught stealing drugs, trapped in addiction and estranged from her husband. Norah battles anger issues and risks imprisonment, while Alicia, now a social worker, strives to help children find safe homes but struggles with her own insecurities.

A haunting call from law enforcement reveals that remnants of their traumatic childhood have been discovered beneath the farmhouse they wish to forget. As they return to confront their past, they grapple with painful memories and the possibility of closure.

Unravel the mystery surrounding the bones found beneath the soil and discover what binds these women to their tragic history. Is one of them a cold-blooded killer, or is there a darker force at play?

This emotionally charged narrative shifts between past and present, providing insight into how these three women develop their survival mechanisms. The shocking revelations will leave readers astonished.

Each protagonist resonates deeply, but Norah’s blend of sarcasm and vulnerability stands out. Alicia's kindness captures my heart, and Jessica’s complex layers gradually unfold, fostering empathy.

The climax had me on the edge of my seat, eagerly awaiting the stunning twist that was delivered flawlessly. Thus, I am giving “Darling Girls” a solid five-star rating. This intricate and poignant tale sheds light on women's empowerment and mental health, enriching its dark themes.

Title: “Safe and Sound” Author: Laura McHugh Publisher: Random House Format: 304 Pages, Hardcover. Genres: Thriller, Fiction, Mystery, Suspense, Contemporary, Adult Fiction. My Rating: 5/5

My Review: I was unprepared for the profound impact this gripping and emotionally rich story would have on me. It’s a dark, haunting tale that resonated with every part of my being.

Imagine a town in decay, where every escape route feels blocked when you yearn to start anew. Life in Beaumont, Missouri, follows a grim cycle: born at Beaumont General, working at Savor Meats, and eventually ending up in Beaumont Memorial Cemetery. Many dream of leaving this cursed place, but few succeed, remaining trapped until life's cruel game ends.

Amelia and Kylee, two inseparable sisters, plan their escape from this grim reality after facing the struggles of poverty. Raised by their quirky mother, a pole dancer, their cousin Grace, missing for six years, played a significant role in their upbringing. A home invasion left only the sisters hiding in a closet, saved by Grace’s selfless act. Now, they must unravel the mystery of Grace’s disappearance to secure their future. However, they’ll need a solid plan, requiring them to delve into the secrets hidden by their town’s residents. What they didn’t foresee is that Grace had her own secrets, which could shatter lives and damage their family's reputation. The threat to their lives may not come from outside forces but rather from within their circle of trust.

Without revealing too much, I can honestly say that the intertwined stories of Amelia, Kylee, and Grace drew me in instantly. Each girl is distinct yet shares a resilience that made me connect with them. Amelia is kind-hearted, hardworking, and loyal; Kylee is street-smart, cynical, and bold; and Grace is vulnerable yet a fighter, wise beyond her years. Their well-developed characters made me root for them even more.

Overall, the story's engaging events and the bittersweet conclusion linger in your thoughts, making for an immensely satisfying reading experience. I’m adding this talented author to my list of favorites. From now on, I’ll read any of her future works without hesitation, granting them a full five-star rating.

BEST YOUNG ADULT BOOKS OF THE WEEK:

Title: “Song of the Six Realms” Author: Judy I. Lin Publisher: Feiwel & Friends Format: 400 Pages, Hardcover. Genres: Fantasy, Young Adult, Romance, Mythology, Historical Fiction.

Synopsis: In “Song of the Six Realms,” Judy I. Lin, acclaimed author of “A Magic Steeped in Poison,” weaves a captivating gothic romance set in a celestial realm.

Xue, a talented young musician, finds herself without a past and uncertain about her future. Raised by her poet uncle and apprenticed at a prestigious entertainment house, she loses her last connection to her former life when her uncle is killed by bandits. Facing a life of servitude, Xue resigns herself to playing the qin for nobles who admire her talent but scorn her social status.

Unexpectedly summoned to perform for the enigmatic Duke Meng, Xue is offered a chance at freedom. The Duke, kind yet mysterious, proposes she become the resident musician at his manor for a year in exchange for her release. However, their encounter turns perilous as they narrowly escape an attack by a monstrous creature.

As Xue uncovers the Duke’s true identity as the Duke of Dreams, a divine ruler of the Celestial Realm, she learns of the looming threat to the Six Realms. With war on the horizon and demonic incursions increasing, Xue must unlock her forgotten memories to help avert disaster. However, survival takes precedence as she becomes a target for both monsters and deities.

Title: “Kill Her Twice” Author: Stacey Lee Publisher: G. P. Putnam’s Sons for Young Readers Format: 400 Pages, Hardcover. Genres: Mystery, Historical Fiction, Young Adult, Thriller.

Synopsis: In 1932 Los Angeles, Lulu Wong, the beloved starlet of Chinatown, is discovered dead in a secluded stable, far from her glamorous Beverly Hills mansion. The Chow sisters — May, Gemma, and Peony — recognize her immediately, having grown up with her in their close-knit community.

Convinced that foul play is involved, the sisters are disheartened by the LAPD’s indifference towards investigating. Fearing a cover-up, they suspect powerful interests are manipulating the situation to discredit Chinatown and pave the way for its demolition.

Aware that the justice system and media may not support a Chinese girl’s cause, even one as famous as Lulu, the sisters take it upon themselves to uncover the truth behind her murder and protect their neighborhood from destruction.

As they dig deeper, they realize they’re battling more than just a killer; they’re confronting the city’s corrupt underbelly. With the murderer still at large, their investigation may put them in grave danger.

BEST NONFICTION BOOK OF THE WEEK:

Title: “Backyard Bird Chronicles” Author: Amy Tan Publisher: Knopf Format: 320 Pages, Flexibound. Genres: Nonfiction, Memoir, Nature, Ecology.

Synopsis: “The Backyard Bird Chronicles” offers a charming exploration of birdwatching, nature, and the hidden beauty in our everyday lives.

Through daily entries, engaging questions, and delightful sketches, author Amy Tan invites readers on a journey to appreciate the passage of time and the marvels of the natural world.

In 2016, feeling overwhelmed by societal discord, Tan sought solace in her backyard. There, amidst the chaos, she found peace in observing the birds that frequented her yard. What began as a quest for tranquility evolved into a profound connection with nature, allowing her to cherish quiet moments, reflect on the intricacies of bird life, and find beauty amid uncertainty.

That's all for this week. Let’s rendezvous in this same column next week. Don’t forget to book an appointment with your eye doctor, as more incredible books await, and you’ll want clear vision to take them all in. Until next week, dear bookworms!