My Thoughts: Sunkissed by Kasie West

Sunkissed
by Kasie West

Publication Date: May 4th 2021
Publisher: Delacorte Press
Pages: 309
ISBN: 9780593176269
Genre: Young Adult / Contemporary / Romance
Source: Netgalley Review Copy / Own

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Will the stars align?

Avery has always used music as an escape. But after her best friend betrays her, even her perfectly curated playlists can't help her forget what happened. To make matters worse, her parents have dragged her and her social-media-obsessed sister to a remote family camp for two months of "fun." Just when Avery is ready to give up on the summer altogether, she meets Brooks—mysterious, frustratingly charming Brooks—who just happens to be on staff—which means he's off-limits.

What starts as a disaster turns into . . . something else. As the outside world falls away, Avery embarks on a journey of self-discovery. And when Brooks offers her the chance of a lifetime, she must figure out how far is she willing to go to find out what she wants and who she wants to be.

Fan favorite Kasie West is back with another unforgettable summer romance that reminds us falling in love is full of wonder, heartache, and—most of all—surprises. (Goodreads)

I absolutely love Kasie West’s books, so of course I couldn’t wait to check out Sunkissed as soon as I possibly could! If you’re looking for books to add to your summer TBR list, then you definitely need to check out this summer-themed romance.

I’m not sure what it is about Kasie West’s books that always make me want to read them in the summer time, but I’ve read two so far this season, and they were both great books! (Even when they aren’t summer-themed, they are just really fun reads.) Sunkissed was one of the books I read, but I also read Moment of Truth and enjoyed it as well!

Sunkissed is Kasie’s most recent release, and yes, it is summer-themed! Avery and her family spending 2 months of their summer at a remote family camp, leaving the outside world and all its distractions behind, sounds like the perfect summer setting and storyline for a book, right? Add in some adorable romance, and yes… this book has all the requirements for a great summer read! I loved so much about this book, but the setting really won me over. I love books about camp!

I also really enjoyed the characters in the book as well. Avery was an interesting main character. Brooks, the love interest, was adorable as well. I enjoyed watching their relationship grow as the book went along! I even liked Avery’s family as well, including the relationship between Avery and her sister. So many great characters!

Overall; If you’re looking for a cute romance to add to your summer reading list, Sunkissed by Kasie West is definitely one you should check out! This book was is such a cute read, and I’m so glad I was able to check it out.

Waiting on Wednesday: Sunkissed & Take Me Home Tonight

Sunkissed
by Kasie West

Expected Publication: May 4th 2021 by Delacorte Press

A lighthearted and swoony contemporary YA romance by fan-favorite author Kasie West about a girl who finds that a summer spent at a family resort isn’t as bad as she imagined…and that falling in love is filled with heartache, laughter, and surprises!

After being betrayed by her best friend, Avery is hoping for a picture-perfect summer. Too bad her parents have dragged her and her sister to a remote family camp for the entire summer. And that’s not even the worst part. Avery also has to deal with no internet, a cute but off-limits staff member, and an always-in-her-face sister.

But what starts as a disaster turns into a whirlwind summer romance as Avery embarks on an unexpected journey to figure out what she truly wants and who she wants to be.

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Take Me Home Tonight
by Morgan Matson

Expected Publication: May 4th 2021 by Simon Schuster Books for Young Readers

Ferris Bueller’s Day Off meets Nick and Nora’s Infinite Playlist in this romp through the city that never sleeps from the New York Times bestselling author of Since You’ve Been Gone, Morgan Matson.

Two girls. One night. Zero phones.

Kat and Stevie—best friends, theater kids, polar opposites—have snuck away from the suburbs to spend a night in New York City. They have it all planned out. They’ll see a play, eat at the city’s hottest restaurant, and have the best. Night. Ever. What could go wrong?

Well. Kind of a lot?

They’re barely off the train before they’re dealing with destroyed phones, family drama, and unexpected Pomeranians. Over the next few hours, they’ll have to grapple with old flames, terrible theater, and unhelpful cab drivers. But there are also cute boys to kiss, parties to crash, dry cleaning to deliver (don’t ask), and the world’s best museum to explore.

Over the course of a wild night in the city that never sleeps, both Kat and Stevie will get a wake-up call about their friendship, their choices…and finally discover what they really want for their future.

That is, assuming they can make it to Grand Central before the clock strikes midnight.

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•     •     •

Two new books from two authors that I love! Do these books sound great or what? I am super excited to check them out... They are going to make for some great summer reading!!

**"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Jill at Breaking The Spine,
that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.**

My Thoughts: You Have a Match by Emma Lord

You Have a Match
by Emma Lord

Publication Date: January 12th 2021
Publisher: Wednesday Books
Pages: 320
ISBN: 9781250237309
Genre: Young Adult, Contemporary
Source: Own, Netgalley Review Copy

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A new love, a secret sister, and a summer she'll never forget.

When Abby signs up for a DNA service, it’s mainly to give her friend and secret love interest, Leo, a nudge. After all, she knows who she is already: Avid photographer. Injury-prone tree climber. Best friend to Leo and Connie…although ever since the B.E.I. (Big Embarrassing Incident) with Leo, things have been awkward on that front.

But she didn’t know she’s a younger sister.

When the DNA service reveals Abby has a secret sister, shimmery-haired Instagram star Savannah Tully, it’s hard to believe they’re from the same planet, never mind the same parents — especially considering Savannah, queen of green smoothies, is only a year and a half older than Abby herself.

The logical course of action? Meet up at summer camp (obviously) and figure out why Abby’s parents gave Savvy up for adoption. But there are complications: Savvy is a rigid rule-follower and total narc. Leo is the camp’s co-chef, putting Abby's growing feelings for him on blast. And her parents have a secret that threatens to unravel everything.

But part of life is showing up, leaning in, and learning to fit all your awkward pieces together. Because sometimes, the hardest things can also be the best ones. (Goodreads)

You Have a Match is the second book that I have had the pleasure of reading by author Emma Lord, and I’m so thrilled to have read the book! I read Tweet Cute, also by this author, last year, and enjoyed the book SO much. (Especially considering that it was a You’ve Got Mail retelling!) I couldn’t wait to see how this new novel would compare, and I definitely was not disappointed!

Let’s start with the storyline for the book… I don’t think I have read many, (if any), books where a character has learned of a sibling from taking a DNA test. It was definitely interesting to read the story of how Abby discovered the sister that she never knew she had, and I really wanted to know everything happened to begin with. This storyline made the book a really quick read for me. I was hooked as I turned the pages because I just needed to know what happened in the past that kept these girls apart. (It’s a really good story, by the way, so if you’re curious, check it out.)

The book also has some really great characters as well. I love Abby, especially her love for photography. (I love it as well, and this book definitely made me want to get out with my camera ASAP.) I love her relationship with her friends and her family, including her grandfather who had recently passed away. And I loved watching her relationship grow with her long lost sister as well.

Overall; You Have a Match was such a cute read, and I’m so glad that I decided to check out the book. Emma Lord has once again managed to make me fall in love with her books, and I absolutely can’t wait to read more of them in the future. If you like a cute contemporary read, do check out You Have a Match!

My Thoughts: You Should See Me in a Crown by Leah Johnson (Audiobook)

You Should See Me in a Crown
by Leah Johnson
Website | Twitter | Instagram

Publication Date: June 2nd 2020
Publisher: Scholastic Press
Pages: 328
ISBN: 9781338503265
Genre: Young Adult, Contemporary

Narrated By: Alaska Jackson
Audiobook Length: 7 hours 18 minutes
Audio ISBN: B0868WKW76
Source: Own / Library Borrow

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Audible | Libro FM | Scribd

Liz Lighty has always believed she's too black, too poor, too awkward to shine in her small, rich, prom-obsessed midwestern town. But it's okay -- Liz has a plan that will get her out of Campbell, Indiana, forever: attend the uber-elite Pennington College, play in their world-famous orchestra, and become a doctor.

But when the financial aid she was counting on unexpectedly falls through, Liz's plans come crashing down . . . until she's reminded of her school's scholarship for prom king and queen. There's nothing Liz wants to do less than endure a gauntlet of social media trolls, catty competitors, and humiliating public events, but despite her devastating fear of the spotlight she's willing to do whatever it takes to get to Pennington.

The only thing that makes it halfway bearable is the new girl in school, Mack. She's smart, funny, and just as much of an outsider as Liz. But Mack is also in the running for queen. Will falling for the competition keep Liz from her dreams . . . or make them come true? (Goodreads)

You Should See Me in a Crown if the very first release by debut author Leah Johnson, and WOW... what a book! I really did not expect to love this book as much as I did, but it was SO good, and just what I needed to read right now!

For most of 2020 I have been in a pretty massive reading slump, (as I am sure a lot of people are), and I’m always on the lookout for *the* book that will hopefully pull me out of that slump. This book is the book that did just that. I loved SO much about it!

For instance...

The characters in the story were great. ALL of them! But especially Liz, and her crush, Mack, the new girl in school who is also running for prom queen with Liz. They were SO cute, you guys! And I loved watching their relationship grow over the course of the story. Also, I love Liz’s family, and her friends as well. Books with great friendships are the best.

The storyline for this book has it all. It’s both cute and fluffy, while also tackling a lot of the heavier topics as well. These are the kinds of stories that we need out in the world right now. This book will leave you with a smile on your face as you turn the last page, and you’ll be rooting for the characters right up until the end. I really did not want the story to end.

Also, while I own a print copy of this book, I opted to check out the audiobook after listening to a sample of Alaska Jackson narrating the story. She did such a good job with the voices and telling the story, that I absolutely had to give it a listen. I’m so glad I did!

Overall; if you haven’t noticed... I really, really enjoyed You Should See Me in a Crown! This book was a fantastic read, and JUST what I needed to pull me out of my reading slump. I devoured it and wanted more at the end. Leah Johnson is definitely going on my list of auto-buy authors, and I can’t wait to read more by her in the future!

Waiting on Wednesday: 10 Things I Hate About Pinky & You Say It First

10 Things I Hate About Pinky
(Dimple and Rishi #3)
by Sandhya Menon
Website | Twitter | Instagram

Publication Date: July 21st 2020
Publisher: Simon Pulse
ISBN: 9781534416819

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The follow-up to When Dimple Met Rishi and There’s Something about Sweetie follows Pinky and Samir as they pretend to date—with disastrous and hilarious results.

Pinky Kumar wears the social justice warrior badge with pride. From raccoon hospitals to persecuted rock stars, no cause is too esoteric for her to champion. But a teeny-tiny part of her also really enjoys making her conservative, buttoned-up corporate lawyer parents cringe.

Samir Jha might have a few . . . quirks remaining from the time he had to take care of his sick mother, like the endless lists he makes in his planner and the way he schedules every minute of every day, but those are good things. They make life predictable and steady.

Pinky loves lazy summers at her parents’ Cape Cod lake house, but after listening to them harangue her about the poor decisions (aka boyfriends) she’s made, she hatches a plan. Get her sorta-friend-sorta-enemy, Samir—who is a total Harvard-bound Mama’s boy—to pose as her perfect boyfriend for the summer. As they bicker their way through lighthouses and butterfly habitats, sparks fly, and they both realize this will be a summer they'll never forget. (Goodreads)

I absolutely LOVE the Dimple & Rishi series, and I am SO excited for this third book!
I still need to read the novellas as well, so I'm hoping to read all of these together!

You Say It First
by Katie Cotugno
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Publication Date: June 16th 2020
Publisher: Balzer + Bray
ISBN: 9780062674128

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Meg has her entire life set up perfectly: her boyfriend Mason is sweet and supportive, she and her best friend Emily plan to head to Cornell together in the fall, and she even finds time to clock shifts phonebanking at a voter registration call center in her Philadelphia suburb. But everything changes when one of those calls connects her to a stranger from small-town Ohio, who gets under her skin from the moment he picks up the phone.

Colby is stuck in a rut, reeling from a family tragedy and working a dead-end job—unsure what his future holds, or if he even cares. The last thing he has time for is some privileged rich girl preaching the sanctity of the political process. So he says the worst thing he can think of and hangs up.

But things don’t end there.…

That night on the phone winds up being the first in a series of candid, sometimes heated, always surprising conversations that lead to a long-distance friendship and then—slowly—to something more. Across state lines and phone lines, Meg and Colby form a once-in-a-lifetime connection. But in the end, are they just too different to make it work?
You Say It First is a propulsive, layered novel about how sometimes the person who has the least in common with us can be the one who changes us most. (Goodreads)

I think it has been a while since I read a book by Katie, so I'm super excited to check this new book out. It sounds like it's going to be a very interesting read, so I'm super curious to check it out.

**"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Jill at Breaking The Spine,
that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.**

My Thoughts: Tweet Cute by Emma Lord (Audiobook)

Tweet Cute
by Emma Lord
Twitter

Publication Date: January 21st 2020
Publisher: Wednesday Books
Pages: 368
ISBN: 9781250237323
Genre: YA Contemporary
Source: Netgalley Review Copy | Own

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A fresh, irresistible rom-com from debut author Emma Lord about the chances we take, the paths life can lead us on, and how love can be found in the opposite place you expected.

Meet Pepper, swim team captain, chronic overachiever, and all-around perfectionist. Her family may be falling apart, but their massive fast-food chain is booming ― mainly thanks to Pepper, who is barely managing to juggle real life while secretly running Big League Burger’s massive Twitter account.

Enter Jack, class clown and constant thorn in Pepper’s side. When he isn’t trying to duck out of his obscenely popular twin’s shadow, he’s busy working in his family’s deli. His relationship with the business that holds his future might be love/hate, but when Big League Burger steals his grandma’s iconic grilled cheese recipe, he’ll do whatever it takes to take them down, one tweet at a time.

All’s fair in love and cheese ― that is, until Pepper and Jack’s spat turns into a viral Twitter war. Little do they know, while they’re publicly duking it out with snarky memes and retweet battles, they’re also falling for each other in real life ― on an anonymous chat app Jack built.

As their relationship deepens and their online shenanigans escalate ― people on the internet are shipping them?? ― their battle gets more and more personal, until even these two rivals can’t ignore they were destined for the most unexpected, awkward, all-the-feels romance that neither of them expected. (Goodreads)

I picked up Tweet Cute by Emma Lord because it sounded super cute, and I’m ALL about cute reads with happily ever after’s right now. After reading the summary for the book, I knew I need to check it out, and I’m so glad that I did!

There are SO many things that I loved about Tweet Cute, with the main thing being the characters. Pepper and Jack are SO cute, and I very much enjoyed following their story and interactions over the course of the novel. They were so cute, and I love that if you put their names together, it’s PEPPER JACK. How cute is that??

I also really enjoyed the storyline for the book. It very much reminded me of the movie You’ve Got Mail with Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan, which just happens to be one of my most favorite movies, which I have watched at least 200 times. (Which is probably why the story for Tweet Cute seemed so familiar!) I was completely fascinated by the story, and it didn’t take me long to become absolutely hooked. I loved it!

And while I have the printed version of this book, I opted to listen to the audiobook instead, and I’m so glad that I did! Dan Bittner & Emily Shaffer did such great jobs with the voices for Pepper and Jack, and it took the story to a whole new level for me. It was great! If you have the opportunity to check out the audiobook, I highly recommend it!

Overall; Tweet Cute was absolutely adorable, and was exactly the book I needed to read at the moment. I am definitely fascinated by Emma’s writing, and I can’t wait to read more by her in the future! If you don’t already have this book on your TBR, do add it today!

My Thoughts: The Map From Here to There by Emery Lord

The Map From Here to There
(The Start of Me and You #2)
by Emery Lord
Website | Twitter | Instagram

Publication Date: January 7th 2020
Publisher: Bloomsbury YA
Pages: 368
ISBN: 9781681199382
Genre: Young Adult | Contemporary
Source: Netgalley Review Copy

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Acclaimed author Emery Lord crafts a gorgeous story of friendship and identity, daring to ask: What happens after happily ever after?

It's senior year, and Paige Hancock is finally living her best life. She has a fun summer job, great friends, and a super charming boyfriend who totally gets her. But senior year also means big decisions. Weighing "the rest of her life," Paige feels her anxiety begin to pervade every decision she makes. Everything is exactly how she always wanted it to be--how can she leave it all behind next year? In her head, she knows there is so much more to experience after high school. But in her heart, is it so terrible to want everything to stay the same forever?

Emery Lord's award-winning storytelling shines with lovable characters and heartfelt exploration of life's most important questions. (Goodreads)

I was super excited to get my hands on The Map From Here to There by Emery Lord, especially after I discovered it was the sequel to The Start of Me and You, a book that I read a few years ago and really enjoyed! I’m a huge fan of Emery’s wiring, and I couldn’t wait to get started on this newest book.

I had hoped to re-read The Start of Me and You before starting this sequel, as it’s been a few years, (and a LOT of books), since I read the story, and I couldn’t quite remember what happened. Unfortunately, I didn’t have time to read it again, but once I started this sequel, the story came rushing back! Emery also does a good job of reminding us of things we may have forgotten, so that’s a plus as well.

One thing I do remember from the first book was how relatable I felt to Paige, especially with the anxiety and all. I get it, I really, really do, and because of that I totally understood how she felt as the story went along. Thankfully she has a pretty amazing support system to help her along the way, including a great family, lots of great friends, and a wonderful boyfriend as well. Yet, at times, she finds her way all on her own, and that is excellent growth from the first book.

The storyline for this book was lots of fun, and very easy to read. A lot of young adults are going to find this book super relatable, especially those in their last years of high school. The characters in the book are all SO great. I especially love the relationship between Paige and her best friends. Everyone should have a group of friends like that! They are all great and supportive, and I love them all. Along with the excellent family life as well!

Overall; The Map From Here to There was an excellent sequel to The Start of Me and You, and I’m so glad to have read the book! If you liked the first book, then I definitely recommend you check out this sequel. If you haven’t read the series yet, and love a good contemporary, do check out both of the books in this series!

Waiting on Wednesday:

The Map From Here to There
by Emery Lord
Website | Twitter | Instagram

Publication Date: January 7th 2020
Publisher: Bloomsbury YA
ISBN: 9781681199382

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Available for Pre-Order:
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Acclaimed author Emery Lord crafts a gorgeous story of friendship and identity, daring to ask: What happens after happily ever after?

It's senior year, and Paige Hancock is finally living her best life. She has a fun summer job, great friends, and a super charming boyfriend who totally gets her. But senior year also means big decisions. Weighing "the rest of her life," Paige feels her anxiety begin to pervade every decision she makes. Everything is exactly how she always wanted it to be--how can she leave it all behind next year? In her head, she knows there is so much more to experience after high school. But in her heart, is it so terrible to want everything to stay the same forever?

Emery Lord's award-winning storytelling shines with lovable characters and heartfelt exploration of life's most important questions. (Goodreads)

Anyone else super excited for this new book by Emery Lord?? I am SOOOOO excited to read it! I am huge fan of Emery's books, and I absolutely can't wait to check out this newest book.

Tweet Cute
by Emma Lord
Website | Twitter | Instagram

Publication Date: January 21st 2020
Publisher: Wednesday Books
ISBN: 9781250237323

Add to Goodreads

Available for Pre-Order:
Amazon | Barnes & Noble | The Book Depository

A fresh, irresistible rom-com from debut author Emma Lord about the chances we take, the paths life can lead us on, and how love can be found in the opposite place you expected.

Meet Pepper, swim team captain, chronic overachiever, and all-around perfectionist. Her family may be falling apart, but their massive fast-food chain is booming ― mainly thanks to Pepper, who is barely managing to juggle real life while secretly running Big League Burger’s massive Twitter account.

Enter Jack, class clown and constant thorn in Pepper’s side. When he isn’t trying to duck out of his obscenely popular twin’s shadow, he’s busy working in his family’s deli. His relationship with the business that holds his future might be love/hate, but when Big League Burger steals his grandma’s iconic grilled cheese recipe, he’ll do whatever it takes to take them down, one tweet at a time.

All’s fair in love and cheese ― that is, until Pepper and Jack’s spat turns into a viral Twitter war. Little do they know, while they’re publicly duking it out with snarky memes and retweet battles, they’re also falling for each other in real life ― on an anonymous chat app Jack built.

As their relationship deepens and their online shenanigans escalate ― people on the internet are shipping them?? ― their battle gets more and more personal, until even these two rivals can’t ignore they were destined for the most unexpected, awkward, all-the-feels romance that neither of them expected. (Goodreads)

This new book by EMMA LORD, not to be mistaken as Emery Lord, sounds like it's going to be a super cute read! I love cute reads at the moment, so I'm very excited to check this one out!

•     •     •

Those are my WOW picks for this week!

**"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Jill at Breaking The Spine,
that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.**

My Thoughts: The How & The Why by Cynthia Hand

The How & the Why
by Cynthia Hand
Website | Twitter | Instagram

Publication Date: November 5th 2019
Publisher: Harper Teen
Pages: 464
ISBN: 9780062693167
Genre: Young Adult | Contemporary
Source: Edelweiss Review Copy | Finished Copy from Publisher

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A poignant exploration of family and the ties that bind, perfect for fans of Far From the Tree, from New York Times bestselling author Cynthia Hand.

Today Melly had us writing letters to our babies…

Cassandra McMurtrey has the best parents a girl could ask for. They’ve given Cass a life she wouldn’t trade for the world. She has everything she needs—except maybe the one thing she wants. Like, to know who she is. Where she came from. Questions her adoptive parents can’t answer, no matter how much they love her.

But eighteen years ago, someone wrote Cass a series of letters. And they may just hold the answers Cass has been searching for.

Alternating between Cass’s search for answers and letters from the pregnant teen who gave her up for adoption, this voice-driven narrative is the perfect read for fans of Nina LaCour and Jandy Nelson. (Goodreads)

I am always on the lookout for a new book by Cynthia Hand, so of course I had to add The How & the Why to my TBR as soon as I discovered it!

I knew just from reading the synopsis of this book that it was going to be an emotional read, but I really didn’t know quite how emotional it would make me. Going on this journey with Cass throughout the book -- from turning 18 and trying to find out who her birth mom is, while also trying to spend as much time as she can with her adoptive mom who is very ill, and trying to find the college that fits her – it was quite a roller coaster ride of emotions. I felt like I was experiencing everything right along with Cass, and what a ride it was. The storyline for this book was really great, and yes, very emotional.

And not only does this book have an interesting storyline, it also has some pretty great characters as well. Cass has a great support system around her, including her awesome parents, (the ones who adopted her, and raised her with so much love), and her best friend, Nyla, who also happens to be adopted, but has a completely different story. We also get to see a bit of the birth moms story told in letters that she wrote to Cass before she was even born. Reading some of those letters were my most favorite part of the book, and I enjoyed getting to know more about this woman right along with Cass. She was definitely fascinating!

Overall; As you can probably tell from my thoughts above, I really, really enjoyed The How & the Why! Cynthia Hand always manages to WOW me with her books, and I am always happy after I finish one of her reads. (They are all great!) I will definitely be keeping my eye out for the next awesome read that Cynthia has coming our way, which I do believe will be the third book in the My Lady Janie’s series, and after that, the first book in the Mary series, My Contrary Mary! I can’t wait for all of these!

My Thoughts: Pumpkinheads by Rainbow Rowell & Faith Erin Hicks

Pumpkinheads
by Rainbow Rowell
Website | Twitter | Instagram
& Faith Erin Hicks
Website | Twitter | Instagram

Publication Date: August 27th 2019
Publisher: First Second
Pages: 209
ISBN: 9781250312853
Genre: Young Adult | Graphic Novel | Contemporary
Source: Library Book

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Deja and Josiah are seasonal best friends.

Every autumn, all through high school, they’ve worked together at the best pumpkin patch in the whole wide world. (Not many people know that the best pumpkin patch in the whole wide world is in Omaha, Nebraska, but it definitely is.) They say good-bye every Halloween, and they’re reunited every September 1.

But this Halloween is different—Josiah and Deja are finally seniors, and this is their last season at the pumpkin patch. Their last shift together. Their last good-bye.

Josiah’s ready to spend the whole night feeling melancholy about it. Deja isn’t ready to let him. She’s got a plan: What if—instead of moping and the usual slinging lima beans down at the Succotash Hut—they went out with a bang? They could see all the sights! Taste all the snacks! And Josiah could finally talk to that cute girl he’s been mooning over for three years . . .

What if their last shift was an adventure? (Goodreads)

Have you heard about Pumpkinheads, the brand new graphic novel by Rainbow Rowell and Faith Erin Hicks! A graphic novel?! Count me in, please! I have seen this book all over social media lately, so when I found it at our local library, I knew I would have to check it out. It was such a fun read!

I have only read a handful of graphic novels so far, and I have no idea why I’ve not read more, because I really, really like them. They are so different than the normal book, BUT, you still feel like you’re getting a good story as you turn the pages, AND awesome graphics as well. I really do enjoy them.

One of the things that I loved most about Pumpkinheads is that it’s set during fall, (my most favorite time of year), AND at a pumpkin patch! Seriously, if you’re looking for a quick read to get you in the fall mood, this is your book. Not only did the book make me want to go to the nearest pumpkin patch, but it also made me super hungry for all the yummy food that is mentioned. (YUM!)

Also, the characters in the book are super cute. While we don’t really get to learn much about them, (but seriously, it’s just a graphic novel), I still felt like I got to know them a bit, and I definitely enjoyed their story. Deja was definitely my favorite character in the book!

Overall; Pumpkinheads is the perfect book to add to your fall TBR! It’s a quick, fun read, that will make you hungry for kettlecorn and caramel apples. It’s got a cute storyline, and cute characters as well, and you should definitely check it out. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!

My Thoughts: Slay by Brittney Morris (Audiobook)

Slay
by Brittney Morris
Website | Twitter | Instagram

Publication Date: September 24th 2019
Publisher: Simon Pulse
Pages: 323
ISBN: 9781534445420
Genre: Young Adult | Contemporary
Source: Netgalley Review Copy

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By day, seventeen-year-old Kiera Johnson is an honors student, a math tutor, and one of the only Black kids at Jefferson Academy. But at home, she joins hundreds of thousands of Black gamers who duel worldwide as Nubian personas in the secret multiplayer online role-playing card game, SLAY. No one knows Kiera is the game developer, not her friends, her family, not even her boyfriend, Malcolm, who believes video games are partially responsible for the "downfall of the Black man."

But when a teen in Kansas City is murdered over a dispute in the SLAY world, news of the game reaches mainstream media, and SLAY is labeled a racist, exclusionist, violent hub for thugs and criminals. Even worse, an anonymous troll infiltrates the game, threatening to sue Kiera for "anti-white discrimination."

Driven to save the only world in which she can be herself, Kiera must preserve her secret identity and harness what it means to be unapologetically Black in a world intimidated by Blackness. But can she protect her game without losing herself in the process? (Goodreads)

The very first thing that drew me to Slay by Brittney Morris was the absolutely stunning book cover. (It’s no secret at all that I am easily distracted by gorgeous book covers!) Then I read the synopsis for the book, which was described as Ready Player One meets The Hate U Give, and knew I would have to check it out. I am so glad I did!

I very much enjoyed the storyline for this book. I love that Kiera is a gamer and has created this amazing online multiplayer world. The descriptions for the game very well described, and Slay sounded like a fun game to play. I am not much of a gamer now, but I was a long time ago, and while I never really got into the multiplayer online games, my husband does play them, so I was pretty familiar with a lot of the gaming terminology in the book. (No worries if you’re not familiar with it, the author did a really great job of explaining things.) The real world parts of the storyline were interesting as well, and I liked that it included a lot of things that people who read the book will find relatable in some way or another, especially teens.

There are so many characters in this book that you will love. We do get a few alternate viewpoints throughout the story, but the main part of the story is told from Kiera’s point of view. Kiera was such an interesting character, and I loved her brilliantness and creativity. She also has a really great family as well, and while her and her sister, Steph, totally act like sisters, you can tell that they love each other, and have each other’s backs, which is a nice change from a lot of the sisterly relationships that I’ve read about lately. I am so glad that Kiera had Steph to help her throughout the book.

I also want to add that I opted to listen to the audiobook for Slay, and I am SO glad that I did! There are a few different narrators in the book, but I loved the narrator for Kiera’s voice the most. I’m not 100% sure which narrator did her voice, but she did a great job, and I would definitely love to listen to her narrate more books in the future.

Overall; Slay was a really interesting read full of real life issues as well as a fantastic fantasy world, and I’m so glad that I read the book! If you like a good contemporary, or a book that has gaming in it, then do add Slay to your reading list! I will most definitely be keeping my eye out for more books by Brittney Morris in the future.

My Thoughts: She's the Worst by Lauren Spieller

She's the Worst
by Lauren Spieller
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Publication Date: September 3rd 2019
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers
Pages: 320
ISBN: 9781534436589
Genre: Young Adult | Contemporary
Source: Netgalley Review Copy

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Sisters April and Jenn haven’t been close in years. Jenn’s too busy with school, the family antique shop, and her boyfriend, and April would rather play soccer and hang out with the boy next door.

But when April notices her older sister is sad about staying home for college, she decides to do something about it. The girls set off to revive a pact they made as kids: spend an epic day exploring the greatest hits of their childhood and all that Los Angeles has to offer.

Then April learns that Jenn has been keeping a secret that could rip their family—and their feuding parents—apart. With only one day to set things right, the sisters must decide if their relationship is worth saving, or if the truth will tear them apart for good. (Goodreads)

The first thing that drew me to She’s the Worst by Lauren Spieller was the adorable cover. Not only is it super cute, but it’s also pink, and I absolutely can’t resist the color pink. The storyline for the book sounded super cute, so I was really excited to check it out.

To sum it up, She’s the Worst is the story about two sisters who used to be really close, but have drifted apart over the years. When April thinks her sister, Jenn, is depressed about not getting to go away for college, she plans a fun day in an attempt to cheer her up. But Jenn has a pretty massive secret that could be pretty destructive to her family, and the secret is about to come out.

The story is told from alternating viewpoints between the two sisters, and I always like this because we can get both sides of the story, so to speak. The relationship between the two sisters felt very realistic, as I’m sure a lot of sisters have this kind of relationship. The constant bickering and arguing between the two felt real, but it started to get on my nerves as the book went along. BUT, these two were saints compared to their parents, who were definitely the worst part of the book.

(Also, my favorite character is definitely the boy next door!)

I thought the storyline for this book sounded really interesting, and I was definitely curious to check it out. I do enjoy adventure stories, and getting to read about places I have never been. I will probably never made it out to California, but it was fun getting to visit through these girls. The setting was definitely the best part of the book.

Overall; She’s the Worst was a quick read, and I very much enjoyed taking the journey with the girls as the story went along. Though the girls arguing and bickering did get on my nerves, I still enjoyed the storyline. But don't let this stop you from reading the book! I hope you check it out, and enjoy it!

My Thoughts: The Rest of the Story by Sarah Dessen

The Rest of the Story
by Sarah Dessen
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Publication Date: June 4th 2019
Publisher: Balzer + Bray
Pages: 400
ISBN: 9780062933621
Genre: Young Adult | Contemporary
Source: Edelweiss Review Copy / Own

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Emma Saylor doesn’t remember a lot about her mother, who died when she was ten. But she does remember the stories her mom told her about the big lake that went on forever, with cold, clear water and mossy trees at the edges.

Now it’s just Emma and her dad, and life is good, if a little predictable…until Emma is unexpectedly sent to spend the summer with her mother’s family—her grandmother and cousins she hasn’t seen since she was a little girl.

When Emma arrives at North Lake, she realizes there are actually two very different communities there. Her mother grew up in working class North Lake, while her dad spent summers in the wealthier Lake North resort. The more time Emma spends there, the more it starts to feel like she is divided into two people as well. To her father, she is Emma. But to her new family, she is Saylor, the name her mother always called her.

Then there’s Roo, the boy who was her very best friend when she was little. Roo holds the key to her family’s history, and slowly, he helps her put the pieces together about her past. It’s hard not to get caught up in the magic of North Lake—and Saylor finds herself falling under Roo’s spell as well.

For Saylor, it’s like a whole new world is opening up to her. But when it’s time to go back home, which side of her will win out? (Goodreads)

Summer just is not summer without a Sarah Dessen book in your hand, and the story for this season is her newest book, The Rest of the Story! I started reading this book while we were on vacation at the beach, (which was the perfect place to start the book), and I finished it on the drive home. This book was the perfect summer read, and is definitely a new favorite as well!

There are so many things that I really loved about this book, one being the characters! There were many great characters in this book, and two of my favorites were Emma, the main character, and Roo, a boy she meets in the book. There are a lot of interesting secondary characters as well, including a whole bunch of new family members that Emma didn’t even know she had. (I love these kinds of stories!)

Another thing that I really loved about the story was the storyline and setting. Like Sarah’s previous books, the storyline is fun, but also touches on some difficult issues as well. I was addicted to the story, and I flew through the pages faster than I expected to. I also love that the book was set at the lake, (which also had a beach), as I seem to be reading a lot of beach books lately, and definitely want more lake stories! This book was perfect.

And before I forget, I also want to add that I LOVE that Sarah adds little Easter eggs in her books that are throwbacks to some of her previous stories! I’ve ready all of Sarah’s books, and I’m always on the lookout for an egg, and this one was great! (I won’t mention it, so read the story to find it for yourself!) This totally makes me want to read all of my other favorite books of Sarah’s this summer, and I’m currently trying to figure out how to add them to my Summer TBR!

Overall; The Rest of the Story was the perfect summer read that was JUST what I needed to kick off my summer reading, and I’m thrilled at how much I enjoyed this book. It’s definitely a new favorite, and it has made me want to re-read ALL of my other favorites of Sarah’s. (I am definitely trying to figure out how to work those into my Summer TBR!) If you’re a fan of Sarah’s books, I know you will love The Rest of the Story. And if you’ve never read one Sarah’s books before, this would be a great book to start with!