Reviews

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All Good People Here

Infuriating, determination and captivating are three words that come to mind after reading “All Good People Here” written by Ashley Flowers. Ashley Flowers has an incredible way of telling true crime stories with her popular podcasts Crime Junkie and with this fictional novel.

I have been hooked on Crime Junkie for a while now and look forward to a new episode every Monday morning and I know that I am not the only one.

Which makes me ask the question:

what makes humans so captivated with true crime? According to an article published 2021 on “The University of Law” blog it states:

“True crime gives an insight into our culture and norms as well as our anxieties and values.”(https://www.law.ac.uk/resources/blog/why-we-love-true-crime).

  I get invested in the human aspect in of these cases. What brings people to commit these crimes and how can so many of these cases go unsolved. In all these cases what part does the media play in all of this?

From the mid 90’s with the first high profile case of OJ Simpson vs. The People of California, or my first ever case that I remember “Casey Anthony vs. the State of Florida.” I remember being glued to the tv from the beginning to the end of the case. Being incredibly disappointed with the outcome. Now I’ll admit it, I had my judgement of Casey before the trial even began and I still believe that she is guilty beyond belief. However, I know now that not all cases are all clear cut and open and shut cases. There is always more to the story than what is being shown on the news. I still think about how this little 3 year old girl would be a young teenager today and there is still no justice for little Caylee and we just have to be ok with that.

The media has had the important responsible to bring the world facts but these cases. However, I believe the media has become irresponsible with these times of cases. Only highlighting one side of the story. A lot of times with cases media painting the suspect has some sort of celebrity and “throwing them in the slammer” before a fair trial is even given. Sometimes even forgetting who the real victim is by the time everything is said and done.

However, Ashley Flowers and all people at Audio Chuck Production, has a real gift of telling these stories with an unbiased mind. Laying out all the facts of the stories on both sides of the aisle. Treating both the victim and the suspects has real human beings. Without ever forgetting who the real victim is. She interviews people connected to the cases that the police have never even thought about talking to. And she tries and sometimes succeeds in getting true justice for these families that have been through hell and back!

And she does just that in “All Good People Here” where the main character Margot moves back home to help with her haling uncle. And starts investigating a case of a missing little girl a town over. Her mission is to connect it to another missing girl case from when she was a child. A girl she considered her best friend. As she sets off trying to connect this puzzle, she reconnects with people from her past and soon realizes that this little town holds more secrets than she original thought. Even secrets in her family.

This story is a powerful and insight story of a story of a missing little girl isn’t always an open and shut case.

Sources:

[Website] Schmidt-Petersen, J. (2021). Why are we so obsessed with true crime. https://www.law.ac.uk/resources/blog/why-we-love-true-crime/#:~:text=True%20crime%20gives%20an%20insight,is%20a%20common%20psychological%20trait%E2%80%9D.

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Episode 31: Memorial and Demi Lovato

Summary

My review on “Memorial” by Bryan Washington. Including my thoughts and opinion on the Demi Lovato documentary “Dancing with The Devil” part 1 & part 2 — This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/bridget-hadley/support

Transcription

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Everything Beautiful in It’s Time

Love, loss and healing are the 3 words that come to my mind after reading “Everything Beautiful in its Time” by Jenna Bush Hager. A lovely love letter written by a granddaughter to her beloved and greatly missed grandparents.

Former First Daughter and Today Cohost Jenna Bush Hager, takes the reader on a personal journey of growing up with her grandparents on both her mom and dad side. As well as giving a glimpse into her husband Henry’s family as well. She shares special moments such as introducing her own children to her grandparents to her last conversations with each grandparent. She doesn’t hold back with sharing letters written between her and her love ones and even sharing some embarrassing moments as well.

Jenna does a wonderful job writing such a raw and emotional biography on such a difficult topic. You can feel the love and appreciation from the lessons learned from her grandparents. You can tell that she is truly is herself in front on the camera by the way this story is written. You will shed tears and as well as laughter along with Jenna. It is a must read for anyone who is missing their loves ones that gone on before them.

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Trouble in Paradise

Author: Elin Hildebrand                                             Publishing date: October 6 2020

Family, trust, and forgiveness are the 3 words that come to my mind after reading “Trouble in Paradise” by Elin Hildebrand. A lovely ending to a trilogy full of ups and downs that never a had a dull moment.

In the third and final book in the Paradise Series by Elin Hildebrand, Irene Steel and her boys Cash and Baker, alongside his son Floyd return to the island on St. John to start their new lives with their new extended family. An extended family that now includes Huck, Ayers and Baker and Cashes half sister Mia. Upon their return Baker gets a surprise of a lifetime when he finds out that he will be extending his family with a new bundle of joy with Ayers Wilson. Now the family has to figure out this whole new family dynamic that is far from anything that the beautiful island of St. John can offer. All the while trying to conclude what actually what happened that resulted in the death of their beloved ones.

Elin Hildebrand does a beautiful job with the conclusion of her Paradise series. She does not make it all rainbows and butterflies in paradise. There is some conflict, trust issues that arise and heartbreaking revelations. However, she does make this about how through all the hardships, these are people that come out on the other side with more love and respect for one another and that is all that paradise could ask for after everything, everyone has been through since the new year.

I would recommend this book to anyone that loves books on family drama and the islands. This book will not disappoint!

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Anxious People

Author: Fredrik Backman Publishing date:

Life, Mistakes and second changes are the 3 words that come to my mind after reading “Anxious People” by Fredrick Backman. A story about an ordinary day turning into one of the most unforgettable life changing day for the most ordinary and extraordinary group of people. A tale that will leaving you with a whole new outlook on your life.

Have you ever had a day that was all planned out and the plan never working out? Have you ever thought what you would do if you were held hostage by a bank robber? Well that is exactly what occurred in this book. A group of complete strangers simply went to this apartment open house when a bank robber stormed in and held them hostage all by mistake. Now these complete stranger have to figure out what to do next in order to get everyone out alive!

Fredrik Backman dives right into the struggles that these group of characters are facing. Both currently with the hostage situation and in their personal lives. He has an unbelievable ability to create characters that are relatable to the reader with the many flaws that they carry. The struggles that Backman’s characters face are anything from: financial struggles, fears of becoming a new parent and getting old. All the way to even depression. Backman highlights this groups struggles and then proceed to show the reader the best way for them to get through their own struggles. I learned that if you are in a situation such as these characters are in, you are more likely to open to strangers about your struggles and listen to their own. By doing this you are able to find things in common and offer support to one another rather than criticism. Fredrick has the ability of creating a story with such an important message, all the while having the reader in tears of laughter!!

This book I believe is for anyone that is struggling during this time. To show that you are not alone in your worries whether they are big or small! This book is full of compassion, love, empathy, and lighthearted moments as well. It surely had me having a different outlook on life.

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Chicks Man

Love, law and family are the 3 words that come to my mind after reading “Chicks Man” by J.D Hollyfield. A romance a lifetime in the making that will could have deathly consequences.

Levi Dent the small town high school football star come lawyer and Hannah Matthews the ambitions girl with big dreams of following in her daddies footsteps at the family law firm but with one small problem she will always be seen has the little sister of Kipley Matthews (especially in she crush Levi Dent’s eyes). However, that is all about to change after chance encounter at Kipley’s wedding, they become inseparable and keep their hands off each other.

Now will the new secret romance brewing, they are forced to work together at the family’s law firm and on the firm’s biggest case to date. All the whiling trying to keep their romance hidden from Hannah’s family. When an unexpected guest shows up at the law firm and threatens everything Hannah and Levi have worked towards both on a personal and professional level. It will even cost someone their lives!

 

I went into this book not expecting much but a predictable office romcom. Besides a twist that will have you captivated in certain parts and a tight nit family dynamic. It was just as I predicted. I felt that there was lack of character development in certain parts. A romance that based of the physical need and lust more than anything else. A young woman finally fulfilling her child dream crush of dating her brothers’ best friend. With the occasional serial killer vibes mixed it. Overall the story was sweet, and the twist was suspenseful and emotional! However, due to the lack of connection I felt for these main characters I could not quite 5 star rate this one. I hope to attempt another book by the same author in the future.

 

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Children of Virtue and Vengeance

Magic, war and betrayal are the 3 words that come to my mind after reading “Children of Virtue and Vengeance” written by Tomi Adeyemi. A whirlwind sequel to the magical novel “Children of Blood and Bone”. A jaw-dropping and at times heartbreaking magical journey that will leave you on a cliff-hanger and wanting more!

THE MAGIC IS BACK IN THE LAND OF ORISHA!! However, it does not go as well as Zelie had pictured it. The ritual went array and the magic got into the hands of the Monarchy and left them as powerful as ever!! Now it is up to Zelie, Tzain, Amari to battle the monarchy of the Queen and Inan himself to take back the throne and bring the land of Orisha back to the home they fell in love with! However, it is not as simple as one might think. When differences in opinion get in the way and fights within each tribe ensue promises are broken, lives are loss, truths are revealed, and things may never be the same again!!
Tomi Adeyemi has done it again!! She has brought her readers back to the wonderful land of Orisha for another action packed, magical fantasy!! By the fantastic descriptions and the well-written beloved characters the reader gets transported right into the novel! You will be scared, you will scream, cry, and feel every emotion throughout this novel. Also with Tomi Adeyemi’s ability to leave the book on a cliff hanger, you will be begging for more!
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoy being sucked into a land of fantasy and with battles that keep you at the edge of your seat up to the very end!!

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Dreams From My Father

Race, family and wisdom are the 3 words that come to my mind after reading “Dreams From My Father” By Former President Barack Obama. A journey through the former president past and how he got to become the man he is today.

 The Former President takes the reader through his journey of finding out about his father’s past and how he became the man he was. Everything from his first and only visit with his father in Hawaii to visiting his father’s family in Kenya after his father’s death. He talks in great lengths about his father’s ambitions and his own ambitions being quite similar. However, the way his father went about achieving those goals verses his own path towards achieving his goals were anything but the same.

He talks about his struggles growing up in a single parent/biracial family. And how that led to him becoming an organizer in Chicago fighting the racial divide. How that eventually led him to other goals such as law school.

The book is full of wisdom on race and family and to never take anything for granted. I would recommend this book to anyone who has been a fan of the Former President and has found him inspiring as much as I have!

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If I Never Met You

Love, betrayal and relationships are the 3 words that come to my mind after reading “If I Never Met You” by Mhairi McFarlane. A story of a pretend relationships created for selfish reasons to having blossom into some undeniable love for one another.

wp-1593917758887.jpgAfter a bombshell announcement that ends her 18 year-long relationship with her first and only real boyfriend, Laurie is left to pick up the pieces of her broken heart. When she finds herself trapped in the elevator with the office player. From that chance encounter that cook up a plan of a fake relationship with two selfish intents 1.) to make Laurie’s ex Dan (who also work at the same place) jealous and 2.) To help Jamie get a promotion at work.

However, it all comes tumbling down when people at work begin to catch on. Also what will happen when real emotions come into play?

Mhairi does a great job depicting a real sense of betrayal that Laurie felt towards Dan after the breakup. Also, adding the factor that both Laurie and Jamie got to lean on each other for support on family issues. Support that neither of them got from previous relationships. I believe that you really got to slowing see the changes in the main characters that was national and unintentional. The fact that Laurie did not always have to lean on a guy for support with her friend Emily was a nice touch as well.

 “If I Never Met You” is a love story with a somewhat predictable ending but with its own twist and turns that makes it, its own special love story for modern times.

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Madam Secretary

Author: Madeleine Albright                                                  Publication Date: 2003, 2013

Political, personal and insightful are the 3 words that come to my mind after reading Former Secretary of States Madeleine Albright Memoir. The story of how a Czechoslovakian immigrant became the 64th and first women Secretary of States in the United States of America.Madam Secretary Pic

Madeleine Albright was a young, intelligent women full of ambition, when Hitler invaded Czechoslovakia and her family fled to the United States for a safer and better life 1947. After attending Wellesley College,  Madeleine started her professional career in journalism by working at local newspapers. Her political career kicked off when she worked on The National Security Committee under the Former President Jimmy Carter Administration. She went on to work on several different campaigns such as: Michael Dukakis presidential campaign. Madeleine is most known for being The United States Ambassador to the United Nations and the 64th and first women Secretary of State both under Former President Bill Clinton.

This book covers several prominent events in not just The United States but around the world, particularly during her years as Ambassador and Secretary of State. Madeleine highlights several aspects of her personal life as well. Including her marriage, divorce, becoming a parent to her three daughters Anne, Alice and Katie and finding out about her family’s Jewish heritage. She points out the difficult parts of being a parent and juggling a stressful career. However, stressing trying to pave a pathway for females in Government.

Quote: “I had arrived in that harbor half a century before, an eleven-year old immigrant from Prague staring up at the Statue of Liberty. How astonishing that that girl was about to become the 64th Secretary of State and the highest-ranking women in U.S. History.”

This quote describes in a handful sentences how she hopes that her achievements will inspire young men and women that are in or that are coming into this country to shoot for stars and not let the hurtles get them down. I know that women like Madeleine Albright, Hilary Clinton, Michelle Obama, and several more female roles models in Government have inspired me to shoot for my dreams in making not just The United States but the world a better and safer place for all.

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What Happens in Paradise

Drama, Love and Mystery are the 3 words that I think of after reading “What Happens in Paradise” written by Elin Hildebrand. A story of two families coming together after learning their loves ones are living a double life. A novel full of twists and turns at every corner and will have you at the edge of your seat.

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We left the Steel and Small family after they found out they are now connected after their loves one are dead from a terrible plane crash. Now we join them back in Saint John’s while they get to the bottom of what truthfully  took on the plane on the first of the year. What will happen the Steel family after making their decision to come back to the island. Will there be a chance for Ayer to have a relationship with the boys? Which Steele brother will she choose? Will a brother/sister relationship blossom between Mia and the boys? And let’s not forget Huck and Irene. What will be revealed when Ayer comes across journals from Rose’s past?

“What Happens In Paradise” will continue to pull at your heartstrings and mess with your emotions in every way. It is an epic beach read for the summer. A novel of love stories mixed with mystery. That will not disappoint!

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Kris Jenner and All Things Kardashians

Family, Love and Fame are the 3 words that come to my mind after reading “Kris Jenner and All Things Kardashian.” A story of how one women born and raised in San Diego California came to be one of the worlds famous momager.

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This book takes you through Kris Jenner’s life from growing up in a loving household, to finding love with a well-respected lawyer at a young age and starting a family. Kris Jenner is candid about her feelings in her first marriage. Which ultimately led to divorce. To finding love again with an Olympic legion and completing her family. She really opens up and goes into great detail about the hurt caused and love and faith that helped her family get through the toughest of times. From the trial of the century to the decision of starting a reality television show and the stardom that followed and everything in between.

To be honest I thought I knew everything about Kris Jenner. I mean her life is on camera. However, I learned about her childhood and the mother-daughter relationship she had her mom that inspired her to have the same relationship with her own children. By reading this book, I have developed a newfound respected for Kris Jenner. A women who devotes her life to loving and supporting her children in the best way she knows how.

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Winter in Paradise

Heartbreak, Love and Mystery are the 3 words that come to my mind after reading “Winter In Paradise” by Elin Hilderbrand. A story of how a hopeful new Year towards into a heartbreaking mystery.Winter in Paradise pic

Irene Steele thought she had a good life. Yes, she just got a demotion at work, but she had a great marriage and two great independent grown sons. When on News Years Day she receives a call from an unknown number saying there had been an accident and her husband of 35 years was dead! What was more shocking it happened off the island of Saint Johns. What was Russell Steele doing in Saint Johns?

The story brings you on the journey as a family goes in search of the truth behind the crash and death of their beloved Husband and father. What the family finds out is both heartbreaking and full of mystery? What was Russell Steele hiding? What did he actually do for work? And will his family ever be able to forgive him? This book is full of twists and turns on every page.

Elin Hilderbrand does a great job portraying a romance mystery novel with real-life emotions. This book will leave the reader wanting more and continuing on with the series.

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Anna K A Love Story

Love, family and drama are the 3 words that come to my mind after reading “Anna K A Love Story” By Jenny Lee. A novel that reflects the rollercoaster ride of high school. Never leaving out the unexpected twists.

These group of high schoolers from New York elite families are held to the highest of standards. Especially the girls. This makes the events in this book ever the most shocking. And the decision that Anna K makes ever the more complicated knowing not only her reputation was on the line but her entire families as well.

Keeping a clean family reputation is most important to Anna’s parents. Making the right choices harder. That leads to Anna K turning to her incredibly supportive, loving older brother Stephen. Their brother, sister relationship is one thing that Anna K can count on in the worst of times.

Falling in love is almost impossible to avoid in high school. However, when Anna K finds herself wrapped up in a love triangle with her current boyfriend with the most perfect reputation and a bad boy with the reputation of dating every high school girl in Manhattan. She does not know where to turn.

This book does not fall short in the drama department either. It is like very modern-day version of Gossip Girls at its finest. Never leaving a bridge unturned. It will leave the reader wondering how life could be so cruel or maybe thinking these group of teenagers got what they deserved.

I would recommend this book to any high schooler looking for a book to get through this quarantine. A great book of life, love and coming of age.

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Valentine

Fear, division, race, and compassion are the words that I think of after reading “Valentine” written by Elizabeth Wetmore. A story of a town dealing with the aftermath of a heinous crime that took place on the evening of Valentine’s day.

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Valentine is set in the mid 1970’s in Odessa Texas and chronicles the events that occur after a rape of a young girl takes place at the hands of a popular teenage boy in town. When a young mother that found the girl is set to testified at the trial what will happen? Will the young girl’s story be heard and taken seriously? Will justice be served? What is the leading impact this crime will have on a town like Odessa?

Valentine is a compelling story of how in the 1970’s a crime of this magnitude plays out. The fear that a crime like this leaves on the young women and especially the young mothers in town. The division of race and class that ripples through a town. Whether it is a he said, she said situation, or the real truth of events gets to be told. Lastly, the compassion that is felt between the women in the neighborhoods and how they all come together for each other in the most desperate of times.

I recommend this story to any reader who has an interest in knowing the 1970s perspective of the southern way of life.

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The Reckless Oath We Made

Loyalty, Love and family are 3 words that come to my mind after reading “The Reckless Oath We Made” A story of Zhorzha or Zee, a young women at the lowest point in her life as she struggles with the recent disappearance of her beloved sister. When a Knight Sir Gentry that has been following her for the past two years shows up and rescues her.The Reckless Oath We Made

This books takes you along as Zee and her Champion Sir Gentry embark on the journey of finding her sister. Between the loyalty that Sir Gentry shows Zee throughout the book, to the love that the two of them develop and the family unit Zee tries to maintain for her nephew. This book is a captivating whirlwind of emotions.

I believe the loyalty that Sir Gentry has towards Zee show his true character. The love that blossoms between these two teaches us to except each other for our strengths and weaknesses. Also just like myself, maintaining a healthy family dynamic is important for both Zee and Sir Gentry

“The Reckless Oath We Made” is romantic, medieval thriller that will have you at the edge of your seat. It is full of twists and turns that will surely not disappoint. As Zee and Sir Gentry sent out to find the LeReigne the truth will be told. From what exactly occurred the night of the prison escape. To truth behind the two sister’s past will be revealed.

 

 

 

 

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From The Ground Up

From The Ground Up pic 2  Inspiring, Dedication and Passion are just 3 words that I think of after reading “From the Ground Up” By Howard Schultz. The story of Howard Schultz the former CEO and Chairman at Starbucks who took a business trip to Italy and came back to build on one the most well-known coffee shops in the world Starbucks.

Inspired by how much Starbucks has done in not just in this country but throughout the world. Through the Starbucks Foundation, Howard Schultz and his team at Starbucks have been able to create several programs to help out the communities they serve such as: reach out to the youth with setting goals of hiring the underprivileged youth. Create Jobs USA is intuitive that sets up job fairs around the country with a goal of setting up the youth with tools needed to land a successful job.

I am also inspired by the dedication that Howard had with creating a benefit that  have allowed full-time and part-time employees to received health insurance. As well offering employees the ability to further their education. By partnering up with Arizona State University and paying their employees tuition with no mandate of staying with the company afterwards. Even many have and have been able to grow throughout the company. This ensures a level of trust and loyalty between Starbucks and their employees.

His dedication in other areas such as veterans’ affairs, refugees, and race will inspire people to look more closely at the problems this country and world still faces. Yes, Starbucks and Howard Schultz have made mistakes, some public and others not so public but he will be the first one to admit them and take responsibility for them. He admits that he is not perfect and his is always looking for ways of learning. He reminds us all that given the right tools and a passion for something anything is possible.

This quote below is what embodies our wonderful country. Not the hate and division that has filled the current state of America. I hope that one day our leaders will come together again and continue to spread this beautiful message. It is especially important during times like these that we need to come together and support one another. There is no other way to get through such terrible times.

This message is talking about the refuges fleeing their war-torn countries and coming to America for their American Dream.

“They come for an idea. An idea so powerful, so inherent to humanity, that it transcends time and geographic boarders: the idea that all people are created equal and have the right to live, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.”  ~ From the Ground Up, Pg. 297

 

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Lovers & Writers

Heartbreak, grieving, love and perseverance are just some of the words I think of when it comes to “Writers & Lovers by Lily King. A novel of hope and courage that will keep the reading turning the pages.

“Lovers & Writers” by Lily King is a novel that follows a young inspiring writer Casey Peabody as she tries to cope with the recent unexpected loss of her mother and tries to complete her novel. That she has been working on for the pass 6 years.

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Casey has spent many years of her young adult life traveling and exploring the world. Trying to get inspiration for her novel but at the same time trying to run away from her childhood. A childhood that had seen many triumphs from winning golf tournaments to many heartbreaks. As in the secrets from both parents and the messy divorce that followed.

Now Casey must find a way to pay off loads of debt from college and credits cards. Whiling still finding time to write “The Great American Novel”

She meets many guys along the way in hopes of blocking out the anguish she feels with her mother’s death.

Will Casey ever able to sort out her feelings towards both of her parents and the guys she has been seeing? And will Casey ever be able to finish what she calls “The Great American Novel”

“How’s the Novel?” ~ Lovers & Writers

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The Matriarch

The Matriarch, The Enforcer, First Lady, First Mom, Mom, and Ganny are just some of the names that the famous Barbra Pierce Bush went by. However, her most endearing and one of the more important to her was the wife of Former President George H.W. Bush.

“The Matriarch” ~ Susan Page gives the reader an inside look at the life of our “Nation’s Grandma.” Starting with growing in Rye, New York the 3rd of four children, to meeting a young George Herbert Walker Bush at a school Christmas party, to becoming not just the First Lady but also First Mom just 8 years later. Through it all never loosing track of what matter most to her raising beautiful, independent, self-sufficient children with her precious George by her side.
A few years after I was born in 1996 George W. Bush took the oath of office 2000. Back then I thought it was common that a son would follow in his father’s footsteps and become president. Come to find out it wasn’t as common as I once thought. In fact, beside George W. Bush there was only one other person to take the oath after his father and that was John Quincy Adams in 1825. His father was our 2nd president in 1797. Between the two families Barbara Pierce Bush was the only one to see both her husband and son start and finish their presidencies.
Before starting this book, I knew very little about the women that the nation nicknamed “Nation’s Grandma” and I only learned what I knew due to her passing just about 2 years ago. I had learned about the epic love story of George and Barbara Bush, and the family dynasty they had created together. The sad truth is that you always seem to learn about the greats after it is too late. Through this book I learn so much more about the women who deserves in my eyes more credit for the success of both her husband and son’s then she was given before her death.
I learned how devastating the diagnosis and loss of their 2nd child Robin of Leukemia at the age of 3 resulted in severe depression for the first lady. It was with never ending love and support that they had for each that they got through that tough period in their 73-year long marriage.
I also learned about the impact that she had while living in the White House. She was not just her husband’s biggest adviser and a big supporter of breaking the stigma with HIV/AIDS. Her work with literacy is something that I hold close to my heart as well. I feel that as important it is for this nation to grow in the world of technology, medicine and other areas, we won’t be able to do so without the key skill of learning how to read! Reading is what will get this nation to the next biggest discovery!
Even after leaving the White House Barbara was learning about the ever-changing world and learning how to except people for who they are. By learning about more about the LGTQ and transgender society. Also suggesting to her granddaughter and namesake (who had recently broken up with her boyfriend at the time) that there were other ways of starting a family on her own. Whether it would be through adoption or medical intervention. This taught me that even the older generations and have a newer outlook on life.
It was with the everlasting nurturing love, compassion, and trust that Barbara and George had for their family that the Bush family remains as close as ever. All the way up to the end Barbara was denying her family was a dynasty. Barbara was just humbled and incredibly proud of the family that she and the first boy she ever kissed created together!
“Somewhere out in the audience may even be someone who will one day follow in my foot steps and preside over the White House as the President’s spouse. I wish HIM well” ~ Barbara Pierce Bush (Wellesely College, 1990)
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Firefly Lane

Joy, love betrayal and heartbreak are just a few of the emotions felt throughout the story of “Firefly” by Kristin Hannah.

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This story follows the unexpected friendship of Kate Mularkey and Tully Hart as their paths first crossed as neighbors on that little old country road to adulthood and every up and down struggle in between.

Firefly Lane highlights the importance of remaining true to not just your friends and family but remaining true to yourself first. Kate Mularkey struggled with is throughout this story as she grows up in the shadows of her best friends dream of becoming a TV reporter.

Once the truth comes out and Kate finds her one true passion in motherhood. The friendships begin to change. When Kate’s daughter Marah becomes an unbearable teenager and chooses to follow and listen Tully instead of her own mother. The jealousy grows and turns into depression for Kate. When Tully tries to bring Kate and Marah back to together is what is truthy the turning point in their 30-year long friendship.

Now will happen to the unbreakable bond of what was TullyandKate? What will happen to the mother and daughter relationship of Marah and Kate? Will these two girls from Firefly Lane keep their promise of remaining best friends forever?

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Harry Potter And The Goblet Of Fire

“Harry Potter and The Goblet of Fire” ~ J.K Rowling is another mysterious journey of the boy wizard! That shows not only his heroism but also Harry’s most vulnerable side. A story that will leave you satisfied but wanting more at the same time.

The 4th book in the Harry Potter series doesn’t start like every other Harry Potter Books! In the first couple of books, he escapes the Dursley’s household one way or the other and goes to Hogwarts for another year. No, it starts by the Weasley’s picking Harry up at the Dursley’s and heading to the Quitch World Cup. It is the events that occur at the Quitch World Cup that kicks off the theme for the rest of the book.

He-who-shall-not-be-named supporters start to take over the muggle owners of the Quitch venue, and the Dark Mark appears in the sky. The beginning signs that LordIMG_20191020_131113.jpgVoldemort is slowly regaining power. What will this scary moment mean for the only Voldemort survivor Harry Potter?

Another significant event that occurs throughout the book is the Triwizard Tournament. A tournament where other wizards’ schools come together at Hogwarts and kids volunteer to participate is a series of quests. That will ultimately end with a Triwizard Champion.

What will occur when Harry’s (who is underage) name pops out of the goblet and is now forced to enter this dangerous tournament? Who put his name into the goblet in the first place? Will Harry overcome his procrastination and figure out how to get through the competition? Also, what does the burning he is famous lightning-bolt shaped scar all mean?

This story is another fantastic novel written by J.K Rowling and an intriguing continuous on the journey of the boy wizard!

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Where The Crawdads Sing

“Where the Crawdads Sing?” ~ Delia Owens is a book about murder, isolation, prosecution and independence.

Where the Crawdads sing

This book is set back in the 1940’s – 1960’s and takes the reader on the journey of a girl Kay Clark as she navigates her way through life in The Marsh fields of North Carolina.

It all starts when Kay’s mother walks out on the family and never comes back. Shortly there after her closes brother and only brother that still lives at home leaves as well. Leaving only her drunken father and her to fend for themselves.

This sudden abandonment forces young Kay to grow up and find ways of survival on her own. The town that she lives in makes her feel alone as well with the children in town making fun of the so called “Marsh Girl.” and besides a few locals helping out, no one in town seems to care about this child.

What happens when the 2nd of two boys that Kay falls in love with suddenly dies after breaking Kays heart? What will the town really think about the Marsh Girl then? Will they come together and rally around her or will they once again turn their backs on a girl who has been abandon all her life?

This book hits on a lot of hard hitting topics and in my mind will wined up in the classic file in no time as a must read book for all school age children. ❤

 

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Harry Potter & The Prisoner of Azkaban

Harry Potter and The Prisoner of Azkaban ~ by J.K Rowling is another magical, action-packed wizardry novel.

Harry Potter book 3

In 3rd installment in the series, Harry begins by trying to get the Dursley’s to sign a permission slip allowing him to go to Hogsmeade with his other classmates. However, right before his uncle decides to sign it something goes horribly wrong. Which results in Harry making an escape and heading back to Hogwarts early. Without the slip signed.

While at Hogwarts the teachers refuse to sign the permission slip as well because a deathly prisoner (who escape from a high security prison) is on the loose and the teachers and administrators are afraid that his is out to get Harry.

With the help of Ron Weasley’s brother George and Fred, Harry finds a way to join his classmates on their first field trip to Hogsmeade. It was there that Harry finds out why the teachers are so terrified that Serious Black is after Harry and his special connection to the prisoner. It also leaves Harry with more questions than answers about his parent’s connection to the dark side and their death?

This makes Harry determined to find the murderer himself.

Here Harry is being himself trying to save the day being the hero at the end of the day.

Will Harry be able to capture this monster? Will he ever find out the truth about his parent’s past?

J.K. Rowling does another fantastic job bringing her imagination to life and taking the reader in another whirlwind journey with the boy wizard!! 🙂

 

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Rich People Problems

“Rich People Problems” ~ Kevin Kwan was another action-packed family drama, full of twists and turns! That will have you having all of the emotions in the book

In the 3rd and final installment of the Crazy Rich Asian series Rich People Problems, the whole family gathers as the monarch of the family is passing away. Surprise guest show up to make a few last minute piece offerings before it is to late. The real questions are: 1.) Will Su Yi forgive those who have wronged her in the past? And 2.) Who will wind up inheriting the famous Tyersall Park Estate after her passing? Since Su Yi only son Philip Young abruptly moved to Australia and Su Yi gave the house to his son Nicholas Young and after Nicholas went on to marry Rachel Chu against everyone’s wishes. It is still up in the air in who will get the famous estate.

Throughout the storyline another huge scandal erupts. As Astrid Leong and Michel Teo are in the mist of a huge five year long divorce and custody battle over their only son Cassian. Charlie Woo her first ever love, wins her heart over and proposes marriage to her in a elaborate way. However, through plotting and scheming Astrid and Charlie exs are trying in every way to get in their way of a happily ever after.

Kevin Kwan has done a fantastic job wrapping up with this Asian family drama and action-packed novel. It will be having you laughing and crying all the way through. It surely does not disappoint.

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China RICH GIRLFRIEND

“China Rich Girlfriend” ~ Kevin Kwan is crazy entertaining, family drama filled novel. That will certainly being leaving you shocked and laughing to the every end.

In the 2nd installment of this amazingly entertaining trilogy Kevin Kwan does not disappointment. He takes us on the journey of Rachel finally getting to meet her biological father and his family. Also Alistair girlfriend Kitty Pong, who made such a stirring at the wedding of the century in the last book, returns with a mission on taking on the Signapore elite crowd with the help of Nick Young’s cousin Oliver T’sein.

How will Rachel react when she finally gets to meet and know he biological father and will his already well establish family open their arms to his illegitimate child?

Will Kitty Pong ever get her wish of gaining peoples’s trust back after her first relationship. Also, what will happen in her new relationship now that is a child involved?

You will have to find all this out by reading the 2nd book in the Crazy Rich Asian sersies, Crazy Rich Girl.

Kevin Kwan does another fantastic job bringing us into the lives the incredible Singaporean elite! 🙂

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HARRY POTTER AND THE CHAMBER OF SECRETS

“Harry Potter and the Chamber Of Secrets” ~ J.K. Rowling is another wizardry thriller that will leave you at the edge of your seats.

In the second installment of the J.K Rowling wizardry book series, 12-year old Harry Potter returns  for his second year at Hogwarts ready to learn more magic and have fun with his friends Ron and Hermine. However, something is looming over him after Dobby a house-elf makes and unexpected visit to him at the Dursley house warning him to not go back to school that something bad is going to happen if he did.

However, weary about taking advice from a house-elf and eager to continue his magical education, he returns to the school. Shortly, after returning to school weird things start to take place. Random attacks occur on random individuals and the mystery needs to be solved.

This is nothing that Harry Potter and his can’t handle. This leads to another mind blowing, action-packed magical thriller. That will lead Harry to understand why Dobby warned him and why he also went against the house-elf suggested.

J.K Rowling has done yet another amazing job taking the reader inside such a fascinating wizardry adventure with best wizard of them all Harry Potter! 🙂

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Yes, Again Yes

“Yes, Again Yes” ~ Mary Beth Keane is a fantastic novel about family, love, trauma and forgiveness

In 1973 Brian Stanhope and Francis Gleasons were rookies in the NYPD and were partners for the first 3 weeks on the job. Both men were newly married and starting families . When Francis suggest to Brian to move the family orient neighborhood in Gillam. He takes him up on his offer.

However, what will happen between the two families when Brian son Peter and Francis youngest daughter Kate becomes best friends and their wives don’t improve?

The intention grows between these two families when the kids are in middle school and the childhood friendship blossoms into something more. After one minor incident where Kate falls and gets hurt. Along with the strange reaction that Kate mother had. Their mothers ban them from seeing each other.

As all star-crossed lovers or rebellious teenagers do. They set a plan to meet each other at midnight that night. It was that night and the events that occurred that night that ultimately ripped these two families apart!

How will these two families ever heal after tragic events from that night? Will these two crazy kids that were in-love ever find each other again and see where that love takes them? Will these families ever be able to forgive?

Mary Beth Keane did a beautiful job writing a family drama novel. Leaving the reader feeling real connections and empathy for each and every character.

From love, heartbreak, grief, to faith and hope this story full of every emotion. It is must read about how family strength .

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Searching for Sylvie Lee

“Searching for Sylvie Lee” ~ Jeane Kwok is a mysterious story of family, friends, love , grief and betrayal. Twist and turns at every corner that will have you at the edge of your seat.

This story is about two sisters and how when one of them goes missing, the other sister won’t give up trying to find her. The search takes her from New York to the Netherlands where her sister was visiting family right before her disappearance.

Along the way the sister that is searching finds out the truth behind her older sisters marriage, love interests and childhood. Where her sister was sent to the Netherlands to live with distant family friends because her newly immigrated parents couldn’t afford raise her in New York.

To be honest, it is slow at first trying build up and fit the pieces of the puzzle together. However, the end is worth the wait. It is a family drama like no other!

I would recommend this book to anyone that is looking for a family drama and mystery rolled into one!

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Harry Potter & The Sorcerer’s Stone

“Harry Potter & The Sorcerer Stone” written by J.K Rowling is action packed, mystery fill story of wizardry and witchcraft in the land of Hogwarts.

 By now most everyone on the planet has read the famous Harry Potter series and have watched the movies. However, I am a bit late to the party and I just finish listening to Book One in the series “Harry Potter and The Sorcerer Stone.” Through the Audible app. Here are my thoughts on the first book.

It starts with the birthday boy Harry Potter finding out he is a Wizard and is accepted into the elite Wizardry and Witchcraft school Hogwarts. Soon Harry is confronted with his sudden celebrity like status and dealing with the truth behind his parents’ death and family history.

The book is full of unexpected friendships and villain dealings. All the while Harry is trying his best to fit in and win the house cup for his schoolhouse Gryffindor. Trying to beat out the other houses, Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw and the most hated Slytherin. All the while trying to steal back the Sorcerer Stone that is hidden deep with the school grounds. Will he to get pass all the obstacles in his way to be able to the stone or will he get caught and expel from one of the biggest wizards school around? Also, he becomes a sudden star in the Wizardry sport of Quidditch. He takes on The Seeker role with pride and determination!

J. K Rowlings does a fantastic job developing a book that takes you into the worlds of wizardry and witchcraft with beloved characters and quests that will leave you on the edge of your seat and not wanting to put the book down.

I would recommend this book and series for anyone who is into wizardry and wants to find a world that will you captivate you from the moment that the first spell is casted!

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A LOVE LETTER LIFE

“A Love Letter Life” written by Jeremy and Audrey Roloff is a compassionate, detailed story that is full of the up and down struggles of their ultimate love story.

This book tells the story of Jeremy Roloff who is a reality TV show star and his wife Audrey of how they met fell in love each other and got married on national television. They wanted to lay it all out there from the gentle pursuit that Jeremy took to win Audrey’s heart to the hard discussion on whether to podcast their special day for the world to see and becoming first time parents and every trial and tribulation in between.

These two hold faith and religion every close and they show it throughout this book. They wanted to show readers how their Christianity lead them to finding each other and how it is the leading aspect of their marriage and family. They love Jesus first then each other. To them this is what has made their relationship work and become so successful.

I would recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a genuine love story.

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The Nest

“The Nest” written by Cynthia D’Aprix Sweeney is whirlwind family drama full of twist and turns pending from a tragic incident that occurred with one of the family.

The book takes the reader on a journey of a family drama between brothers and sisters trying to figure out whether or not they are going to have a stable future with the help of The Nest. The Nest is a family trust fund set up by their father before is unexpected death. The future of The Nest lays in the balance after the unfortunate actions of one of the brothers Leo. However, the other siblings were developing a real need for their money due to the financial crisis.

The book is full of family drama, surprises and love. How will the family reconnect after the unfortunate incident? Will they after reconnect? Also after Leo mysteriously goes missing will he ever be found?

Cynthia does a famously job developing the family dynamic with throwing in the necessary surprises along the way.

I would recommend this book to anymore looking for a good family drama full of mystery type of book.

This book was certainly a fun read!

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A Woman Is No Man

“A Woman is No Man” written by Etaf Rum is jea moving, touching, emotional packed novel about family and different cultures. That will have you cheering on some characters and wanting to yell at others.

This powerful novel is set in Brooklyn New York and follows 3 generations of Arab women. As the older generations try to keep their Arab culture alive, with marring their daughters off at such a young age believing that is the only way to survive. While the next generations tries to push barriers and stand up for themselves.

These novel highlights, a conflict that is happening every day in America as families escape foreign lands to find freedom in America. The conflict that only men are capable of supporting the family and that women are only good for cleaning and being at their men’s beck and call. 

Throughout the story you find that the younger generations are realizing in America they have a voice and that they can stand up for themselves and have the futures and careers that they dreamed about back home and hear about only in books.

The push and pull of this struggled gets so emotionally intense at times that the reader won’t be able to put the book down. This story shows the power of what books and the proper education can do for people that are escaping from their past.

I would recommend this book for anyone who wants to learn about the Arab culture and women empowerment.

This book surely won’t be a disappointment. ❤

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The Dating Plan

Love, family drama and fake relationships are the three things that came to my mind after reading “The Dating Plan” written by Sara Desai. When old flames reunited unexpectedly and start to fake dating, what could possibly go wrong?

Daisy Patel and Liam Murphy are old high school flames, whose relationship ended after Liam never showed up to take Daisy to her senior prom and left town for good.

Now ten years later Daisy and Liam unexpectedly run into each other at a tech conference and to fix their own individual family situations they hatch a plan to start fake dating. However, when the old feelings for each other come flooding back but the truth of that last night is revealed. What will happen to these once high school lovers, turned heartbreakers and now fake fiancés?

Let me first start out by saying I love the fake relationship tropes. They sometimes are corny and predictable. But with Sara Desai adding in these characters families, back stories and reasons behind the fake relationships, it really laid out the high stakes out this relationship was for Liam and Daisy.

Overall, I really enjoyed and appreciated all the little things and big things this book had to offer.

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The Nightingale

Survival, War and Love are three words that comes to my mind after reading “The Nightingale” written by Kristin Hannah. When two sisters are living in the same war but react in two different ways, will their sisterly bond uphold and how will they come out on the other side.

The Germans have invaded France and Isabella and Vianne Mauriac are faced with having two different perspectives on the war. While Vianne wanted to watch the war run its course and just survive with her family, Isabella wanted to fight and join the resistance of the war.

The truth is I have never been able to fully appreciate and take in a book about WW2 because of the all the war talk. However, “The Nightingale” and Kristin Hannah’s ability to tell a story about the women of war is quite special. Both Isabella and Vianna were characters that I was able to root for through out the whole book. Their growth throughout the story was my favorite part.

I would recommend “The Nightingale” to anyone who is looking for a war focus with women empowerment story that will keep you captivated and the turning the pages to the every end.

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Someone Else’s Shoes

Friendships, Unexpected situations and relationships are the three things that come to my mind after reading “Someone Else’s Shoes” written by Jojo Moyes, when a mistake has taken place leads to unexpected journey and friendships.

Nisha was facing getting kicked out of her penthouse and an unexpected divorce that will resort to her being completely broke and stranded with no place to live. Sam is facing getting fired from her job and dealing with a husband who is depressed. When a slight mix-up with gym bag, results with these two lives colliding and taking them on a journey they soon won’t forget.

Jojo Moyes did a great job with the storyline of both women and the ups and downs of their individual journeys. I also appreciate the character growth and relationship building throughout this story. And how two women from two different lives can come together for a common goal with a blossoming friendship.

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Husband Material

Love, Weddings and Commitment are three words that come to my mind after reading “Husband Material” written by Alexis Hall, a conclusion to the Boyfriend Material Series.

With several weddings to attend in short amount of time, one Luc’s best friend and another Luc’s ex boyfriend’s, it has left Luc and Oliver thinking about their future together as a couple. And that brings up whether they are both willing to commit to marriage or just being together as a couple.

If I am being honest, I enjoyed “Boyfriend Material” more than “Husband Material” I felt has if it was a bit too long for what needed to be done. There were some parts that were reparative and unnecessary, but it was still a sweet ending to a love story I have been committed to.

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Boyfriend Material

Luc is stuck in a bit of a bind when his dead-beat, washed up rockstar starts to make his comeback Luc is stuck being chased and caught up by paparazzi everywhere he goes, and they paint them in the worse of light. And with the most important fundraiser coming up at work, his boss forces him to clean up his act. This translates into a scheme of getting a fake boyfriend.

Now Oliver who is also in need of a fake-boyfriend for an up-coming family event agrees to go in on this scheme with Luc. But happens when these to enemies – fake boyfriends start to actually spend time with each other and get to know each other? And what happens when real families and emotions start to get involved?

Alexis Halls does a beautiful job with the sarcastic and hilarious banter between Luc and Oliver and when real life gets in the middle of this fake-relationship it is most definitely a page-turner of a comic and heartwarming romance.

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Big Little Lies

Lies, Secrets and Drama are the three words that came to my mind after reading “Big Little Lies” written by Liane Moriarty. A captivating story of Desperate Housewives meets a murder-mystery thriller.

When Jane moves to Sydney Northern Beaches and enrolls her young son Ziggy into a private school there, she soon finds herself in the middle of all of the drama and secrets of the school moms. All the while maybe holding onto the biggest secret of all to herself. And when the school fundraiser threatens to expose her secret, not every comes out alive.

Liane Moriarty is my new favorite for drama and thrillers. She does a great job creating characters that you As a big fan of Desperate Housewives type of show, Big Little Lies and Liane Moriarty does not disappoint.

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Spare

Trails and tribulations and family are the three words that come to my mind after reading “Spare” written by Prince Harry. A story about a Prince and his not so royal life.

Growing up you dream about being a part of the Royal Family and being a Prince or Princess and let me tell you after reading this, that dream as been dashed and is the last thing I wan to do.

Prince Harry takes the reader through his life story starting with stories of his childhood, especially the moment that his father told him about the death of his mother Princess Diana, and through his school years, going to war and of course his life afterwards.

My biggest take away from Spare is Prince Harry talking about his relationship with his father and brother Prince William. Describing the grieving and coping process of his mother and lastly his relationship with Meghan. And of course the relationship with the media throughout his life.

Starting with King Charles and his lack of affection towards his sons. King Charles was more of a boss than a fatherly figure in the boy’s lives. Especially has the boys grew into adulthood. And Prince William only became a brother to Harry when it was convenient for Prince William to be a brother to Prince Harry. Other than those times he didn’t really want anything to do with Prince Harry. I believe that Prince William saw Prince Harry as a threat at times growing up.

Prince Harry’s relationship with the media really started from the time he was born. They captured him his mothers arms outside the hospital days after he born. And the cameras haven’t left his side since. Even causing the tragic death of his mother. and capturing a little boy grieving and following into adulthood and capturing every missteps along the way. Prince Harry had a troublesome relationship with the media before his relationship with Meghan and it only seem to elevate into a whole new level once the relationship took off.

Prince Harry never asked to be born into the Royal family. He wanted the life his mother had dreamed of. Once he saw history repeating itself with his wife Meghan and the media, he knew that he needed to get his family out of harms way. He wants to see his children to grow up with their mother. A luxury that he wasn’t awarded due to the cruelty of the media.

The last and biggest thing that I took away Prince William his a mini Kings Charles and Prince Harry is definently his mother child. Therefore I would take the Spare over the Heir any day.

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Illuminae

Life V.S. Death and Artificial Intelligence V.S Human Intelligent are the things that come to my mind after reading Illuminae by Amie Kaufman and Jay Kirstoff. It is a Sci-fi thriller that will have you questioning whether or not AI is actually going to take over our lives in the future.

After their homeland is destroy by a warship, Kady and  her recent ex-boyfriend Ezra are separated and left to pick up the pieces. All the while trying out run and avoid another attack. If that wasn’t enough pressure a deathly disease threatens to take over the ships leaving many people dead and or mentally unstable.

There is an artificial intelligence machine on one of the ships that was designed to help and guide anyone on board with the war. However, it soon turns on Kady and she is left on her own with Ezra being the only healthy one left on the other ship, will they be able to outrun the enemy and save all of mankind?

While this book was entertaining with all the battle fighting. It also brought on a new prospective that could relate to our own human life.

It got me thinking about how much we have human beings are becoming more and more reliant on Artificial Intelligent to get by in our day-to-day life. With having things like Siri, Alexa and so on, in the palms of our hands, they are making us more lazy and less useful to society. And how in the Disney Channel original movie “Smart House” the Artificial Intelligent helper “Pat” was helpful to start but soon got too started and turned on the humans in the house. This has me thinking that is artificial intelligent the helper of the future or the enemy of the future.

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Always and Forever

Coming of age, Family and young love are three things that come to my mind after reading “Always and Forever” by: Jenny Han. A very sweet, easy to read, story of a young girl at a very prominent time in her life.

In the conclusion of the “To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before” trilogy by Jenny Han, Lara Jean is a senior in high school and when she didn’t get into the college of her dreams, she is forced to make a very big a decision. A decision that a lot of teenagers have to make their senior year. To stay with the high school sweethearts and try long distance or break op and start this new adventure solo.

This story takes the reader on Lara Jean journey has she weighs the pros and cons of this decision. Also, when her dad decides to marry their neighbor, Lara Jean’s sister Margo has a tough time approving of the ceremony because she doesn’t want their neighbor to replace their late mother.

Jenny Han does an amazing job taking on real life issues that young adults might go through. And being able to see Lara Jean going through and navigate these ups and downs and showing the importance of having a loving support system, will hopefully help other young teens through their own struggles.

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The Stand In

Have you ever been told you look like a celebrity? What would you do if given the opportunity to fill in for that celebrity twin of yours?

That is exactly what happened in “The Stand In” written by Lily Chu. When Gracie Reed got the opportunity at right time in her life. Right when she was debating whether she was going to quit her job because of her boss or whether to suck it up because she needs the money to get her ailing mother into the top nursing home in town. She was ambushed by the talented Chinese actress Wei Fangli on a walk and asked to step in for her at events while she is filming a movie in Canada.

Will Gracie be able to full fill her duty without being recognized or caught? What will happen between her and Wei Fangli right hand man and friend Sam Yao? And what will happen to the relationship between Wei and Gracie when Gracie finds out they maybe closer than they might have original thought?

“The Stand In” is that guilty rom com of a story that will leave you with your own question of “what if I was given an opportunity of a life time by my own celebrity look alike?”