tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-91804463848351464642024-03-16T02:08:24.977-05:00GReads! A book blog for my reading obsession.Ginger @ GReads!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17725314423163879042noreply@blogger.comBlogger1055125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9180446384835146464.post-7077079032196828322019-05-13T00:00:00.000-05:002019-05-13T00:00:02.224-05:00The Friend Zone by Abby Jimenez & The Story It Inspired Me To Tell<br />
I had received a review copy of the <i>The Friend Zone</i> by Abby Jimenez from my friends at Forever publishing, which I was so thankful for because at first glance it looked to be a novel I might enjoy. After seeing some early rave reviews for the novel, I quickly moved it up my to be read schedule. With an unexpected day off from work (thanks Houston floods), I sat down to start it. In less than 24 hours I had read it cover to cover. If you have not heard about this story, below is the synopsis.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDFhKo63mvicaWJtt-GF3_Ucg0vYWuPYvQVjgyK9e6qRNAc31EtzfbIMFCxVURGSek_vREZyq2RaWX9qXqn7f8kWiZXXZ9CYY8KznrYvg9bh54KduASEZLzr-HQwxUuqjqhcUn-jhmWvtr/s1600/DDE4951A-C6D1-4717-A309-46D5627E8521.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDFhKo63mvicaWJtt-GF3_Ucg0vYWuPYvQVjgyK9e6qRNAc31EtzfbIMFCxVURGSek_vREZyq2RaWX9qXqn7f8kWiZXXZ9CYY8KznrYvg9bh54KduASEZLzr-HQwxUuqjqhcUn-jhmWvtr/s320/DDE4951A-C6D1-4717-A309-46D5627E8521.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<blockquote>
<h3>
The Friend Zone by Abby Jimenez</h3>
<b>To be published:</b> June 11, 2019<br />
<b>About the book:</b> Kristen Petersen doesn't do drama, will fight to the death for her friends, and has no room in her life for guys who just don't get her. She's also keeping a big secret: facing a medically necessary procedure that will make it impossible for her to have children.<br />
<br />
Planning her best friend's wedding is bittersweet for Kristen--especially when she meets the best man, Josh Copeland. He's funny, sexy, never offended by her mile-wide streak of sarcasm, and always one chicken enchilada ahead of her hangry. Even her dog, Stuntman Mike, adores him. The only catch: Josh wants a big family someday. Kristen knows he'd be better off with someone else, but as their attraction grows, it's harder and harder to keep him at arm's length.<br />
<br />
The Friend Zone will have you laughing one moment and grabbing for tissues the next as it tackles the realities of infertility and loss with wit, heart, and a lot of sass. [<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/41945163-the-friend-zone?ac=1&from_search=true">goodreads.com</a>]</blockquote>
I was warned to have tissues near by while reading, but couldn't help but think: Why? Surely this story can't be THAT much of a tear jerker for me. Boy was I wrong. Not only did this book bring about the tears, but it also touched on a very personal, very emotional part of my <i>own</i> story. One that inspired me to share it on my Instagram stories after I finished reading it.<br />
<br />
The amount of messages I received in response to my personal confessions surprised me. I had no idea so many others were feeling and understanding my own struggles with such a similar issue. I knew immediately I wanted to dig deeper with those thoughts here on my blog. So, here's my story that was inspired by this story.<br />
<h4>
Grief is the feeling we hold inside ourselves over the loss of something that's meaningful to us. </h4>
I know that feeling of grief all too well since I am a motherless daughter and have been for 15 years. I never truly empathized with women who were grieving over lost children, or the reality of never being able to carry a child, because I had never walked in those shoes. It's still a topic I feel very strongly about because I do know women in my own life who have to endure those struggles, and still are enduring those pains. Reading this novel about the main character Kristen, and her own personal story about coming to terms with the thought that she may never carry her own child due to medical issues, struck a chord with me. Something in this particular story spoke to me and had me thinking about the choices I've made in my own life have led me to a very similar feeling of loss.<br />
<h4>
Because of the choices I've made, I am grieving the loss of ever becoming a mother myself.</h4>
Now I realize this is not something that has happened to me. I chose the path I chose. I am where I am today, without children of my own, because of reasons in my past. I am completely aware of that. I do not place blame on anyone, or anything else. But I'm starting to realize now that I am still allowed to grieve for a future I thought I'd have, but am not currently living.<br />
<br />
Growing up I always saw myself as a mother. People always told me I had "motherly" instincts. Caring for, and loving others, just came naturally. I still value these qualities in myself today, and truly believe it's why I have taken the profession of being a teacher. When someone asks me, "Why don't you have kids? Do you just not want them?", I find myself sometimes agreeing because it's just easier to lie than tell the truth.<br />
<h4>
The truth is, I wanted to be a mother. </h4>
In the author's note of this novel, Abby Jimenez wrote about the main character's happy ending: "It was about her recognizing that she wasn't defined by her ability to have children, and that her worth went beyond the state of her uterus." That one line stood out to me, as if Abby herself was speaking right to me. The choices I've made in my own life, that led me to not becoming a mother like I'd hoped to be, do not define me. There is more to who I am, as a woman, than just becoming a mother. Yes, this saddens me that I will never know the feeling of creating a life and carrying it, to watch it grow and evolve into a human being. That is part of my path I must live with.<br />
<h4>
I'm also recognizing that it is ok to grieve that loss. Feel what I feel, but not let it detour me. </h4>
If you're reading this, and you see something similar in my story, I hope you don't feel alone in your grief. Know that it is ok to be sad for the future you thought you'd have. Know that it is ok to be angry with yourself for not making other choices. But also know that you ARE worth more than what you thought you'd become. I've always believed books come into our lives in just the right moments, and this book here, definitely presented itself to me when I needed it most.<br />
<br />
<img align="left" height="96" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYGTxPNVhGVEXLtJzHacqN6v8oqsIngtyuVSFJR2aV3R0YM6Tu4hx6dmu6GNoqfqCCjN9biK7UyY92rU786Gpu0ZFSYs8epPcE4ZaZyQE6fEHKbQsciqf-iZ-20R51tQs3j3eogCpDcJYS/s640/sig2.png" style="border: 0pt none;" width="640" />Ginger @ GReads!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17725314423163879042noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9180446384835146464.post-32831015303134934202019-04-29T00:00:00.000-05:002019-04-29T00:00:06.014-05:00Checking In & Moving Forward: What I've Been Reading Lately<br />
Oh hello there! Remember this space? I know I've been a bit quiet on this corner of the internet, but I promise I have still been reading and sharing... just more efficiently and consistently on my instagram account. I think it's safe to say that I have dove head first into the #bookstagram world and it's been every bit enjoyable! I still consider myself a book blogger at heart (it is where my bookish community journey began), but I've also embraced other outlets to share my love for reading.<br />
<br />
I've decided to keep this space as more of a "check in" or reference piece to go back to and see what I've been reading. It is by no means closing, but just an extension of my social media outlets, where I can share more in depth conversations about the books I've read.<br />
<br />
<h4>
<b>Here's where you can find me on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/greadsbooks/">@greadsbooks</a></b></h4>
<br />
<h2>
What I've Been Reading Lately...</h2>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuAuPKel3s-ZtlIIM__0CKBH01ooz0qFVzTc9fDMzzaQ83tZBJ2SfiAX4hiXVzfb-eoNnnj3_HWCU4TaodXwo7r8HhEVRuuluEnLHqLvfJy4j8ki1-Vnh5sKpfWkLpRHfFp2RSH7I8FzWe/s1600/IMG_3946.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="637" data-original-width="640" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuAuPKel3s-ZtlIIM__0CKBH01ooz0qFVzTc9fDMzzaQ83tZBJ2SfiAX4hiXVzfb-eoNnnj3_HWCU4TaodXwo7r8HhEVRuuluEnLHqLvfJy4j8ki1-Vnh5sKpfWkLpRHfFp2RSH7I8FzWe/s320/IMG_3946.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<h3>
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/series/116838-wild-seasons"><b>Wild Seasons series by Christina Lauren</b></a></h3>
<br />
My annual reread of the my favorite series, Wild Seasons by Christina Lauren, has commenced! Y'all, I LOVE these books. They are everything I want in a contemporary adult romance. Each time I revisit one of their stories, it's like I'm discovering something new. In fact, after I reread the second book, Dirty Rowdy Thing, I changed my original rating from 4 stars to 5 stars! It's weird how your perspective on a book can change depending on the time in which you read it. Obviously I rediscovered a new love for Harlow and Finn's story.<br />
<br />
Have you read these books? I feel like I am constantly recommending them to everyone I know. If there ever was a perfect series for my adult contemporary romance genre, this would be it.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjelnlR93Q1h8-wLEmYFewTo9Z_vujLzYoPQoYgfZYPeiNj_4YTBF_pOztOl0gtUIL9XTZ5o2VNGEqzgcrnXlKY9_NZ1U3plLvPyd64wh0PjZKUnJNK8S_z1UDNxDcAy-F_FnZO3M_69zT1/s1600/IMG_3947.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="636" data-original-width="640" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjelnlR93Q1h8-wLEmYFewTo9Z_vujLzYoPQoYgfZYPeiNj_4YTBF_pOztOl0gtUIL9XTZ5o2VNGEqzgcrnXlKY9_NZ1U3plLvPyd64wh0PjZKUnJNK8S_z1UDNxDcAy-F_FnZO3M_69zT1/s320/IMG_3947.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<h3>
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/36300625-99-percent-mine?from_search=true"><b>99 Percent Mine by Sally Thorne</b></a></h3>
<br />
I've seen some mixed reviews early on for Sally Thorne's newest novel, 99 Percent Mine. Here is my take away on this book: It is NOT The Hating Game. So please stop comparing the two. They are obviously very different stories. If you're not a fan of this follow up because the book itself did not please you, then obviously you have the right to feel that way. I just don't understand the folks who disliked it because it was not The Hating Game for them. For me, that is not being fair to the author, or her work.<br />
<br />
I really enjoy Sally Thorne's writing style and she's proved herself to be diverse with her characters in this novel and that is something I really gravitated towards. I am 100% on board for what she has to offer next!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxm1NqZNBl0UZAEb2V0QpBIvjA4nUoasLc4DUqAKew9veTvNABvXvubwVP3pZiMII0sNHza_SEmtX7cH-j66Ki71UcU4D_n3Qvf9L80JFDpuDsam6VB2vZVdtprBDZXPaYvGwya93jUXlP/s1600/IMG_3950.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="637" data-original-width="640" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxm1NqZNBl0UZAEb2V0QpBIvjA4nUoasLc4DUqAKew9veTvNABvXvubwVP3pZiMII0sNHza_SEmtX7cH-j66Ki71UcU4D_n3Qvf9L80JFDpuDsam6VB2vZVdtprBDZXPaYvGwya93jUXlP/s320/IMG_3950.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<h3>
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/42455873-the-wedding-party?from_search=true"><b>The Wedding Party by Jasmine Guillory</b></a></h3>
<br />
Y'all, I am such a fan of Jasmine Guillory! She keeps producing such interesting, engaging, and swoon-worthy novels. I first fell in love with The Wedding Date, and have been on board for each of her novels since then. The Wedding Party publishes this summer and it is every bit just as delightful as the previous two. For fans of characters from the first book (& even the second), you're totally going to love this one!<br />
<br />
Her stories have a realistic approach that I could totally see happening to someone I know. I love when an author gives that sense of familiarity in their writing. Reading a Jasmine Guillory book feels like hanging out with a best friend. It's comforting, yet exciting. Exactly what I want, when I want it.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPuetQWopwtKsLZb9UjzMPKKwvoXrJ8_EBm2_Y77wXh9aVge_g_dgbM6JVno1LR4ktgewPEL6NBQmhHPuxnvqmujQZOdMDZatwBux3-m2xaNhCa1j9Hd-M4silpzosV5psQUlMVyMaOA7B/s1600/IMG_3949.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="636" data-original-width="640" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPuetQWopwtKsLZb9UjzMPKKwvoXrJ8_EBm2_Y77wXh9aVge_g_dgbM6JVno1LR4ktgewPEL6NBQmhHPuxnvqmujQZOdMDZatwBux3-m2xaNhCa1j9Hd-M4silpzosV5psQUlMVyMaOA7B/s320/IMG_3949.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<h3>
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/41150487-red-white-royal-blue?ac=1&from_search=true"><b>Red, White, & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston</b></a></h3>
<br />
I'm calling it right now: THIS IS MY FAVORITE READ OF 2019!! Yup, it is THAT GOOD. I can't wait for the world to read it and experience it, too. There is so much goodness packed between these pages. The romance is off the charts swoon-worthy. The political views are so on point. The emotional journey this book will take you on IS EVERYTHING.<br />
<br />
The cover may lead you to believe it's a "cutesy" book (gagging at that description), but trust me when I say this, the story inside is purposeful and powerful. Especially in the times we're living currently. When you're feeling down about our society and the negativity of it, this novel brings forth a sense of hope that we oh so need right now. If only this fictional world was our reality.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4FJj08FXf4OVUsw1Ur9jrzOzIvO39RCnNn5qFIX6a1b3aVVM9yuciTEuTv3sIO2Q6l7y1PwpvYxMBHEHuzwTTS8I16dCUROEeIBwVCxwB9fz-CCbD_YmWich6H5Ym80PkqoIjyEFgzpv6/s1600/IMG_3952.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="636" data-original-width="640" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4FJj08FXf4OVUsw1Ur9jrzOzIvO39RCnNn5qFIX6a1b3aVVM9yuciTEuTv3sIO2Q6l7y1PwpvYxMBHEHuzwTTS8I16dCUROEeIBwVCxwB9fz-CCbD_YmWich6H5Ym80PkqoIjyEFgzpv6/s320/IMG_3952.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<h3>
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/40514431-evvie-drake-starts-over?ac=1&from_search=true"><b>Evvie Drake Starts Over by Linda Holmes</b></a></h3>
<br />
This quietly outspoken book grabbed me when I least expected it. I love when novels have the power to do that. I have a soft spot for adult fiction that touches on grief and the ugly side we don't always talk about. There's a natural selfish aspect of grief that we can't help but feel and this book delivered that message loud and clear. I'm thankful for stories that present a narrative that I can relate to and grab hold of.<br />
<br />
The setting for this story is gorgeous, as well. I have never been to Maine, but man is it on my travel bucket list now. You know an author's writing is powerful when you can literally touch all your senses to a place you've never even been before. Bravo to this unexpectedly beautiful book.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-q9sr1r9i4drt54RGLkJNSK5yiMwiU7QNQUg_bR36tWy5xabx2wZibY2UP5LIplrB48QbDyzd5XypZvStZ_yhzEmgAQ3NPuED5M5CqkeURDDTh9-X528mpEKuQfK3yBMcU6wr9ALWdl6v/s1600/IMG_3948.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-q9sr1r9i4drt54RGLkJNSK5yiMwiU7QNQUg_bR36tWy5xabx2wZibY2UP5LIplrB48QbDyzd5XypZvStZ_yhzEmgAQ3NPuED5M5CqkeURDDTh9-X528mpEKuQfK3yBMcU6wr9ALWdl6v/s320/IMG_3948.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<h3>
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/36511805-serious-moonlight?ac=1&from_search=true"><b>Serious Moonlight by Jenn Bennett</b></a></h3>
<br />
For YA fans, this is another solid contemporary read from author Jenn Bennett. Serious Moonlight follows the story of a young girl who lives in the Pacific Northwest, in and & around Seattle, Washington. She encounters a boy and has a first time experience with him during a very emotional moment in her life. She's left thinking that this encounter is of the one time variety and she'll never have to see him again. But, boy is she wrong.<br />
<br />
I really appreciated the authenticity of what it means to be emotionally mature. We can act and do things, but its how we feel and how we react to those feelings that truly dictate our own personal journeys. This particular story nailed that theme so perfectly. Also, the setting? Perfect. Seattle is beautiful and I completely envisioned it throughout the story.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcNJ9ROw5vGet7KUu1NfNms5HSppAa1nxqG_1nMkwJnPL1WBvu3QtGztTH46U_XXo8QPm44-7LQCuiAR47bPZKXZgH9_q8foU_TyynOOY5o8Y3LQ0SRHHO1T_Dl_0NVCGiM92VTjZimJk0/s1600/IMG_3951.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="637" data-original-width="640" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcNJ9ROw5vGet7KUu1NfNms5HSppAa1nxqG_1nMkwJnPL1WBvu3QtGztTH46U_XXo8QPm44-7LQCuiAR47bPZKXZgH9_q8foU_TyynOOY5o8Y3LQ0SRHHO1T_Dl_0NVCGiM92VTjZimJk0/s320/IMG_3951.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<h3>
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/43601774-field-notes-on-love?ac=1&from_search=true"><b>Field Notes on Love by Jennifer E. Smith</b></a></h3>
<br />
Another YA that I gave 5 solid stars to. Jennifer E. Smith writes such great contemporary novels for, and about teens. This particular novel is set on a cross country journey for two teens as they take the train from New York to California. They both end up on this train ride together for very different, very unexpected, reasons. How their narratives intertwined and then became involved was such a joy to read.<br />
<br />
As someone who has had an interest in taking a cross country train ride, I was fascinated by the commodities of such an adventure. You can tell this author did her research! I've come to learn that Jennifer E. Smith weaves an emotional tale that definitely pulls on your heart strings when you don't quite expect it. This novel definitely succeeded in an emotional journey, figuratively and literally.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0SmoKuG3H9NTio6iK6slK-Dw-1OzaEpP796b187R7AqZDmBwqwnFY4Q4m7wybwYg8e7u_0dpjIQCiP65aq7lGiedQs6cgtecFPproPFauDQTF_0TTH0mCzIk9Eh26gx8oz7-R94ySPMU6/s1600/IMG_3953.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0SmoKuG3H9NTio6iK6slK-Dw-1OzaEpP796b187R7AqZDmBwqwnFY4Q4m7wybwYg8e7u_0dpjIQCiP65aq7lGiedQs6cgtecFPproPFauDQTF_0TTH0mCzIk9Eh26gx8oz7-R94ySPMU6/s320/IMG_3953.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<h3>
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/42245770-the-rest-of-the-story?ac=1&from_search=true"><b>The Rest of the Story by Sarah Dessen</b></a></h3>
<br />
Oh Sarah Dessen, queen of all summery YA contemps. She has brought me back to what a quintessential Dessen novel feels like for me. All the elements of heartache, rich history, self discovery, a breathtaking summery setting, and a character arch you can't help but root for, not to mention a swoon-worthy romance that builds and builds.<br />
<br />
This particular novel touches on grief, learning to let in a side of yourself that you never knew existed, and releasing things you've kept such a firm grip on simply out of fear. This novels just might be her best work yet, in my honest opinion. There's a powerful story between these pages, one I know that long time Dessen fans will definitely appreciate and fall in love with, too.<br />
<br />
<h4>
So, tell me what you've been reading lately! Got any good reads of 2019 so far that you want to recommend? I am always looking to add to my own to be read list. Please share in the comments!</h4>
<br />
<img align="left" height="96" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYGTxPNVhGVEXLtJzHacqN6v8oqsIngtyuVSFJR2aV3R0YM6Tu4hx6dmu6GNoqfqCCjN9biK7UyY92rU786Gpu0ZFSYs8epPcE4ZaZyQE6fEHKbQsciqf-iZ-20R51tQs3j3eogCpDcJYS/s640/sig2.png" style="border: 0pt none;" width="640" />Ginger @ GReads!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17725314423163879042noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9180446384835146464.post-66508458783272713222019-01-28T00:00:00.000-06:002019-01-28T00:00:05.405-06:00January Check In: What Have You Been Reading?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1RFzRt8BDqlQ6R2b4d_2IDhVlrfKt1K_TJBSxElU2dtY7zA7bhi6xF13sjzTOWt5kSVMGYg2ji8gh_p80Upuh73J8ZqUEmvmrJpGJjrV_iz95HIF3AVfTdkEiCBfVFrf9ST8640k1O-yd/s1600/January+Check+in+%25281%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="90" data-original-width="728" height="78" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1RFzRt8BDqlQ6R2b4d_2IDhVlrfKt1K_TJBSxElU2dtY7zA7bhi6xF13sjzTOWt5kSVMGYg2ji8gh_p80Upuh73J8ZqUEmvmrJpGJjrV_iz95HIF3AVfTdkEiCBfVFrf9ST8640k1O-yd/s640/January+Check+in+%25281%2529.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
We are almost a month into the new year and I've been steadily reading through my books. How's it going in your corner of the world? Have you come across anything that's completely wow'ed you? Or have you unfortunately encountered a dud or two? I've read everything from a 5-star read down to barely a 3-star read. I thought it would be a good time to check in and share with you all what I've been reading and what I thought about those books.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX4BQUQKZDlK2h-bZc6XB9tdyb4SNQBbeW5Kl5XUfFwnCzGHGNOqCeQGy_J19bpTMcruNcJIjeBJHCC9nDT0C4hPxizcMM6Q0vfKASIDjuIPORYG6PdY8X_zAEJTupK0jUQCV50GtgBj7U/s1600/IMG_3011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="639" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX4BQUQKZDlK2h-bZc6XB9tdyb4SNQBbeW5Kl5XUfFwnCzGHGNOqCeQGy_J19bpTMcruNcJIjeBJHCC9nDT0C4hPxizcMM6Q0vfKASIDjuIPORYG6PdY8X_zAEJTupK0jUQCV50GtgBj7U/s320/IMG_3011.jpg" width="319" /></a></div>
<br />
<b><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/35526663-famous-in-a-small-town">Famous in a Small Town by Emma Mills</a> </b>was the first full length novel I read in 2019 and I REALLY enjoyed it! This was my first Emma Mills book to read and definitely won't be my last. There is a soft poetic sense of familiarity as I read this YA novel, the kind I'd been missing and didn't even realize it. The strong friendships in this novel and how those friendships evolve and change as we grow older, really stood out to me. I love stories being told through the teenage eye, right on the cusp of their futures, deciding which path to take and how those decisions can change so much of your life ahead. I highly recommend this novel for fans of strong contemporary YA that definitely delivers with all the feels.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjakVVvZIgzHxrSihPuThBYWFtq8RLPUOQbLYezDuKWXJ07lBXizYeewogvx72eR1_Zwr_aDNvmU9oGwL0Ujv6yjbVi4X2f6RvAC59ighHEPsADSEPq09OQHAjxn6KNOnycXONt-Rxx5efu/s1600/IMG_3013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1111" data-original-width="1111" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjakVVvZIgzHxrSihPuThBYWFtq8RLPUOQbLYezDuKWXJ07lBXizYeewogvx72eR1_Zwr_aDNvmU9oGwL0Ujv6yjbVi4X2f6RvAC59ighHEPsADSEPq09OQHAjxn6KNOnycXONt-Rxx5efu/s320/IMG_3013.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/39338454-the-bride-test"><b>The Bride Test by Helen Hoang</b></a> was one of my most anticipated reads of 2019. I cannot properly explain my joy and excitement when this galley showed up in my mailbox (thank you Berkley Romance team!!!). If you're a fan of her debut novel <i>The Kiss Quotient</i> from last year, then get ready, because here comes another book to fall in love with all over again. It's hard to really compare the two because they are very different, at least for me. Hoang truly shines with this sophomore novel, taking adult romance to such a heightened level of emotional growth and stability. There is a deeper story written here, one that is very close to Hoang's personal life, and as the reader you can definitely feel it through the pages. Dare I say I love this novel even more??<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXdHhSUEgxk1tt8__DPzlp-4rce19YoXvjfhgfV7c9sYHOtu7BB_idZ3xmOFj9SjJK1HulSUveJ2r6Yrj-Koc0Munzm6Znxy1CMw3InMaVe7UuWuB44Am75tT-MtBuSJsrwf9vrxifuUIa/s1600/IMG_3012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXdHhSUEgxk1tt8__DPzlp-4rce19YoXvjfhgfV7c9sYHOtu7BB_idZ3xmOFj9SjJK1HulSUveJ2r6Yrj-Koc0Munzm6Znxy1CMw3InMaVe7UuWuB44Am75tT-MtBuSJsrwf9vrxifuUIa/s320/IMG_3012.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I decided to try something new this year, to help broaden my romance books that I read. Over on my instgram (<a href="https://www.instagram.com/greadsbooks/"><b>@GReadsBooks</b></a>), I asked my followers to recommend a romance to me. I decided each month to read a new-to-me romance recommended by you all. It is a great way to discover new books and authors I have never heard of, and/or finally sit down and read those romance books people keep gushing about, yet I never found time to read them. I plan to read one or two from this list each month. If you have a favorite romance you'd like to recommend to me, please do so in the comments below and I'll be sure to add it to my list.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3Y2nQ5Xk4LyAe9oxjPuk9q4dmKvAw5_I6tNRPhKBBo9DQ4czMqz7HauArBUkJ09jTz0QIsf_USmbuQ9Eb0pCtYiYkdFfbT2vabCdRV9YI7HS1FwHWkMAQ-zZCQs9nrM3PhwXbAR_2oVru/s1600/IMG_3014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1099" data-original-width="1099" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3Y2nQ5Xk4LyAe9oxjPuk9q4dmKvAw5_I6tNRPhKBBo9DQ4czMqz7HauArBUkJ09jTz0QIsf_USmbuQ9Eb0pCtYiYkdFfbT2vabCdRV9YI7HS1FwHWkMAQ-zZCQs9nrM3PhwXbAR_2oVru/s320/IMG_3014.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/36373564-the-simple-wild">The Simple Wild by K.A. Tucker</a> was one of the first books I decided to read after I initiated my "Recommend a Romance" feature on Instagram. To be honest, I was blown away by how many people told me it was either their favorite read of 2018, or their most recommended book for others to read. So naturally I went into it with very high expectations. That might have been part of the problem. Unfortunately, this novel did not wow me like it has for so many others. Immediately I was not a fan of the main character. I struggled to connect with her, and that made my struggle to connect with the story as a whole even more difficult. I found myself putting the book down and not excited to be picking it back up. The romance itself did not spark the chemistry I had hoped for, either. I'm glad I gave this one a try though.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTPjYnPWk8W_eUS5utkgN7hSxb1uLKcR1bHIphxJIUcIoA-q5YUpPx197o0mHQhgBlfZSU8UhT1rAvKgOw1HWPqWVOJb2_8poL4qACY0xpVSTBGJeo8kUSX8mkZ5W8liv57D7fVVMcfv5P/s1600/IMG_3015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1100" data-original-width="1100" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTPjYnPWk8W_eUS5utkgN7hSxb1uLKcR1bHIphxJIUcIoA-q5YUpPx197o0mHQhgBlfZSU8UhT1rAvKgOw1HWPqWVOJb2_8poL4qACY0xpVSTBGJeo8kUSX8mkZ5W8liv57D7fVVMcfv5P/s320/IMG_3015.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/31306110-i-knew-you-were-trouble"><b>I Knew You were Trouble by Lauren Layne</b></a> was just the palette cleanser I needed! She has become a contemporary romance author that I know I can count on. All of her books that I've read so far have been sexy, flirty, and just enough emotional depth to keep me tied to the story. I've been slowly making my way through her backlist titles and that's why I picked this one up. This NYC advertising agency is packed full of sexy tension and irresistible charm. Each book in the Oxford series has definitely entertained me. I am also a super fan of her latest series, 21 Wall Street, and have preordered the next book in that series which is due out in February. Her writing style reminds me of old school Christina Lauren (I'm looking at you, Wild Seasons series) & I can never get enough of that!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwcDeAhs4RLr0xCWGe157-lTxRJJgBOda2dXeCd-uc4h9QrBDQELiGIr4LjlrLqLyuPomJo7zq-USNyE3DGwKJhrUF69Ag7rAS3R39EP4T-433T0kmffGG88zgO3PuoRWtfRiX8Y54ym5W/s1600/IMG_2997.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwcDeAhs4RLr0xCWGe157-lTxRJJgBOda2dXeCd-uc4h9QrBDQELiGIr4LjlrLqLyuPomJo7zq-USNyE3DGwKJhrUF69Ag7rAS3R39EP4T-433T0kmffGG88zgO3PuoRWtfRiX8Y54ym5W/s320/IMG_2997.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<b><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/42630081-overnight-sensation">Overnight Sensation by Sarina Bowen</a></b> is currently on my kindle app. As you're reading this blog post, I'll probably be finished with it. I came into this series late, starting with book four (<i>Brooklynaire</i>) which I devoured last year and loved. So when book five came out, I immediately wanted to jump back in to this professional hockey adult romance world. These books are the perfect antidote when you're looking for an escape from reality. The sexy banter is great and the steamy scenes are, well, STEAMY! I don't know much about hockey, but when I read these books, I feel like the Brooklyn Bruisers number one fan! Ha! I definitely recommend this series and hope to go back and read them from the beginning.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
These are the books I've been reading this month (with the exception of a few short stories, and others not pictured). I'm planning to make a stop at the bookstore on Tuesday to buy my copy of <i>99 Percent Mine</i> by Sally Thorne, another 2019 release I am highly anticipating. I have a gift card to spend, so I think I'll also pick up <i>Becoming</i> by Michelle Obama since it's been on my wish list for quite some time. What books have you read? What are you planning to read next? Let's keep the book chat going in the comments!<br />
<br />
<img align="left" height="96" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYGTxPNVhGVEXLtJzHacqN6v8oqsIngtyuVSFJR2aV3R0YM6Tu4hx6dmu6GNoqfqCCjN9biK7UyY92rU786Gpu0ZFSYs8epPcE4ZaZyQE6fEHKbQsciqf-iZ-20R51tQs3j3eogCpDcJYS/s640/sig2.png" style="border: 0pt none;" width="640" />Ginger @ GReads!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17725314423163879042noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9180446384835146464.post-22222035114909800262019-01-01T09:07:00.000-06:002019-01-01T09:07:34.111-06:00A New Year of New Books: 2019 Edition<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkmub6DRUQ9RjNAnBs6wRBWBSIQsSxIHriv44baaAyuXWzH32SxdDFm_opur10_c-Tf1BnWpr8XaLWG1FnYROlZKRxYdJSZM71Cp8mYGDG1LRx-WoSmfte8FKgVIDDzc5bTVV1h6IPGKKx/s1600/A+New+Year+of+New+Books+2019.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="512" data-original-width="1024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkmub6DRUQ9RjNAnBs6wRBWBSIQsSxIHriv44baaAyuXWzH32SxdDFm_opur10_c-Tf1BnWpr8XaLWG1FnYROlZKRxYdJSZM71Cp8mYGDG1LRx-WoSmfte8FKgVIDDzc5bTVV1h6IPGKKx/s640/A+New+Year+of+New+Books+2019.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Happy New Year! I've always enjoyed the start of a new year. I don't know why because it's not as though things drastically change from December 31st to January 1st. In my head though, it's a new beginning, somewhere to start fresh again. I'm not one for resolutions (though I've tried making them in the past) because I'm the worst at sticking to a plan unless it's concrete and tangible. This is also why I can never commit to a specific reading challenge, other than completing a certain number of books read in a year.<br />
<br />
When it comes to what I read, I am very spontaneous! I know WHAT I want to read, it's just the timing that is never a sure thing. Especially when I get my hands on those coveted reads I've been patiently waiting for. And that brings me to today's post... it's a new year to display new books I am really looking forward to reading in 2019. At the bottom of this list, I've included 2019 releases that I've already had the pleasure of reading and definitely want to put on your radar. So be sure to check those out, too. As always, let me know in the comments if you plan to read any of these, too, and/or which books are on your to-be-read list for 2019.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1541605951l/36511890.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="314" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1541605951l/36511890.jpg" width="131" /></a></div>
<blockquote>
<span style="font-size: large;">Even If I Fall by Abigail Johnson</span><br />
<u>To be published</u>: January 8, 2019<br />
<u>About the book</u>:<br />
A year ago, Brooke Covington lost everything when her beloved older brother, Jason, confessed to the murder of his best friend, Calvin. Brooke and her family became social pariahs, broken and unable to console one another. Brooke’s only solace remains the ice-skating rink, where she works but no longer lets herself dream about a future skating professionally.<br />
<br />
When Brooke encounters Calvin’s younger brother, Heath, on the side of the road and offers him a ride, everything changes. She needs someone to talk to…and so does Heath. No one else understands what it’s like. Her brother, alive but gone; his brother, dead but everywhere. Soon, they’re meeting in secret, despite knowing that both families would be horrified if they found out. In the place of his anger and her guilt, something frighteningly tender begins to develop, drawing them ever closer together.<br />
<br />
But when a new secret comes out about the murder, Brooke has to choose whose pain she’s willing to live with—her family’s or Heath’s. Because she can’t heal one without hurting the other. [goodreads]</blockquote>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/36511890-even-if-i-fall">Add to goodreads</a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1524033787l/34993791.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="310" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1524033787l/34993791.jpg" width="130" /></a></div>
<blockquote>
<span style="font-size: large;">Match Me If You Can by Tiana Smith</span><br />
<u>To be published</u>: January 8, 2019<br />
<u>About the book</u>:<br />
Mia's best friend Robyn is known for her matchmaking skills, which is perfect, because homecoming is just around the corner. But Robyn refuses to set Mia up with the guy of her dreams, which forces Mia to take matters into her own hands. She uses Robyn's matchmaking service to make sure popular Vince Demetrius falls for her. <br />
<br />
Vince asks her out, but Mia doesn't count on Logan, the persistent school newspaper photographer who seems to like her out of the blue. Now she has to choose between Vince - the guy she knows is right for her - and Logan, who insists that she give him a chance. And she needs to make sure Robyn doesn't find out that Mia's been matchmaking behind her back. <br />
<br />
Mia has two weeks before homecoming. Can she fix the mess she made or will she have to kiss her perfect match goodbye forever?</blockquote>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/34993791-match-me-if-you-can">Add to goodreads</a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1532485807l/33979520.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="317" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1532485807l/33979520.jpg" width="133" /></a></div>
<blockquote>
<span style="font-size: large;">99 Percent Mine by Sally Thorne</span><br />
<u>To be published</u>: January 29, 2019<br />
<u>About the book</u>:<br />
<i>Crush: a strong and often short-lived infatuation, particularly for someone beyond your reach…</i><br />
<br />
Darcy Barrett has undertaken a global survey of men. She’s travelled the world, and can categorically say that no one measures up to Tom Valeska, whose only flaw is that Darcy’s twin brother Jamie saw him first and claimed him forever as his best friend. Despite Darcy’s best efforts, Tom’s off limits and loyal to her brother, 99%. That’s the problem with finding her dream man at age eight and peaking in her photography career at age twenty—ever since, she’s had to learn to settle for good enough.<br />
<br />
When Darcy and Jamie inherit a tumble-down cottage from their grandmother, they’re left with strict instructions to bring it back to its former glory and sell the property. Darcy plans to be in an aisle seat halfway across the ocean as soon as the renovations start, but before she can cut and run, she finds a familiar face on her porch: house-flipper extraordinaire Tom’s arrived, he’s bearing power tools, and he’s single for the first time in almost a decade.<br />
<br />
Suddenly Darcy’s considering sticking around to make sure her twin doesn’t ruin the cottage’s inherent magic with his penchant for grey and chrome. She’s definitely not staying because of her new business partner’s tight t-shirts, or that perfect face that's inspiring her to pick up her camera again. Soon sparks are flying—and it’s not the faulty wiring. It turns out one percent of Tom’s heart might not be enough for Darcy anymore. This time around, she’s switching things up. She’s going to make Tom Valeska 99 percent hers. [goodreads]</blockquote>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/33979520-99-percent-mine">Add to goodreads</a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1518828894l/35068618.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="314" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1518828894l/35068618.jpg" width="131" /></a></div>
<blockquote>
<span style="font-size: large;">On the Come Up by Angie Thomas</span><br />
<u>To be published</u>: February 5, 2019<br />
<u>About the book</u>:<br />
Sixteen-year-old Bri wants to be one of the greatest rappers of all time. Or at least make it out of her neighborhood one day. As the daughter of an underground rap legend who died before he hit big, Bri’s got big shoes to fill. But now that her mom has unexpectedly lost her job, food banks and shutoff notices are as much a part of Bri’s life as beats and rhymes. With bills piling up and homelessness staring her family down, Bri no longer just wants to make it—she has to make it.<br />
<br />
On the Come Up is Angie Thomas’s homage to hip-hop, the art that sparked her passion for storytelling and continues to inspire her to this day. It is the story of fighting for your dreams, even as the odds are stacked against you; of the struggle to become who you are and not who everyone expects you to be; and of the desperate realities of poor and working-class black families. [goodreads]</blockquote>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/35068618-on-the-come-up">Add to goodreads</a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1529946335l/38251237.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="317" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1529946335l/38251237.jpg" width="133" /></a></div>
<blockquote>
<span style="font-size: large;">Fame, Fate, and the First Kiss by Kasie West</span><br />
<u>To be published</u>: February 5, 2019<br />
<u>About the book</u>:<br />
Lacey Barnes has dreamt of being in a movie for as long as she can remember. However, while her dream did include working alongside the hottest actor in Hollywood, it didn’t involve having to finish up her senior year of high school at the same time she was getting her big break. Although that is nothing compared to Donavan, the straight-laced student her father hires to tutor her, who is a full-on nightmare.<br />
<br />
As Lacey struggles to juggle her burgeoning career, some on-set sabotage, and an off-screen romance with the unlikeliest of leading men, she quickly learns that sometimes the best stories happen when you go off script. [goodreads]</blockquote>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/38251237-fame-fate-and-the-first-kiss">Add to goodreads</a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1527108530l/35883613.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="461" data-original-width="318" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1527108530l/35883613.jpg" width="137" /></a></div>
<blockquote>
<span style="font-size: large;">The Art of Losing by Lizzy Mason</span><br />
<u>To be published</u>: February 19, 2019<br />
<u>About the book</u>:<br />
On one terrible night, 17-year-old Harley Langston’s life changes forever. At a party she discovers her younger sister, Audrey, hooking up with her boyfriend, Mike—and she abandons them both in a rage. When Mike drunkenly attempts to drive Audrey home, he crashes and Audrey ends up in a coma. <br />
<br />
Now Harley is left with guilt, grief, pain and the undeniable truth that her ex-boyfriend (who is relatively unscathed) has a drinking problem. So it’s a surprise that she finds herself reconnecting with Raf, a neighbor and childhood friend who’s recently out of rehab and still wrestling with his own demons. At first Harley doesn’t want to get too close to him. But as Audrey awakens and slowly recovers, Raf starts to show Harley a path forward that she never would have believed possible—one guided by honesty, forgiveness, and redemption. [goodreads]</blockquote>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/35883613-the-art-of-losing">Add to goodreads</a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1533702940l/39875158.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="315" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1533702940l/39875158.jpg" width="132" /></a></div>
<blockquote>
<span style="font-size: large;">Field Notes on Love by Jennifer E. Smith</span><br />
<u>To be published</u>: March 5, 2019<br />
<u>About the book</u>:<br />
Having just been dumped by his girlfriend, British-born Hugo is still determined to take his last-hurrah-before-college train trip across the United States. One snag: the companion ticket is already booked under the name of his ex, Margaret Campbell. Nontransferable, no exceptions.<br />
<br />
Enter the new Margaret C. (Mae for short), an aspiring filmmaker with big dreams. After finding Hugo's spare ticket offer online, she's convinced it's the perfect opportunity to expand her horizons.<br />
<br />
When the two meet, the attraction is undeniable, and both find more than they bargained for. As Mae pushes Hugo to explore his dreams for his future, he'll encourage her to channel a new, vulnerable side of her art. But when life off the train threatens the bubble they've created for themselves, will they manage to keep their love on track? [goodreads]</blockquote>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/39875158-field-notes-on-love">Add to goodreads</a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1534395741l/39863308.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="309" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1534395741l/39863308.jpg" width="130" /></a></div>
<blockquote>
<span style="font-size: large;">When Summer Ends by Jessica Pennington</span><br />
<u>To be published</u>: April 9, 2019<br />
<u>About the book</u>:<br />
Aiden Emerson is an all-star pitcher and the all-around golden boy of Riverton. Or at least he was, before he quit the team the last day of junior year without any explanation. How could he tell people he's losing his vision at seventeen?<br />
<br />
Straight-laced Olivia thought she had life all figured out. But when her dream internship falls apart, her estranged mother comes back into her life, and her long-time boyfriend ghosts her right before summer break, she's starting to think fate has a weird sense of humor.<br />
<br />
Each struggling to find a new direction, Aiden and Olivia decide to live summer by chance. Every fleeting adventure and stolen kiss is as fragile as a coin flip in this heartfelt journey to love and self-discovery from the author of Love Songs & Other Lies. [goodreads]</blockquote>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/39863308-when-summer-ends">Add to goodreads</a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1536852275l/41063454.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="312" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1536852275l/41063454.jpg" width="131" /></a></div>
<blockquote>
<span style="font-size: large;">Meet Cute by Helena Hunting</span><br />
<u>To be published</u>: April 9, 2019<br />
<u>About the book</u>:<br />
Talk about an embarrassing introduction. On her first day of law school, Kailyn ran - quite literally - into the actor she crushed on as a teenager, ending with him sprawled on top of her. Mortified to discover the Daxton Hughes was also a student in her class, her embarrassment over their meet-cute quickly turned into a friendship she never expected. Of course, she never saw his betrayal coming either...<br />
<br />
Now, eight years later, Dax is in her office asking for legal advice. Despite her anger, Kailyn can't help feeling sorry for the devastated man who just became sole guardian to his thirteen-year-old sister. But when her boss gets wind of Kailyn's new celebrity client, there's even more at stake than Dax's custody issues: if she gets Dax to work at their firm, she'll be promoted to partner.<br />
<br />
The more time Kailyn spends with Dax and his sister, the more she starts to feel like a family, and the more she realizes the chemistry they had all those years ago is as fresh as ever. But will they be able to forgive the mistakes of the past, or will one betrayal lead to another? [goodreads]</blockquote>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/41063454-meet-cute">Add to goodreads</a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1528129525l/36511805.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="314" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1528129525l/36511805.jpg" width="131" /></a></div>
<blockquote>
<span style="font-size: large;">Serious Moonlight by Jenn Bennett</span><br />
<u>To be published</u>: April 16, 2019<br />
<u>About the book</u>:<br />
After an awkward first encounter, Birdie and Daniel are forced to work together in a Seattle hotel where a famous author leads a mysterious and secluded life in this romantic contemporary novel from the author of Alex, Approximately.<br />
<br />
Mystery-book aficionado Birdie Lindberg has an overactive imagination. Raised in isolation and homeschooled by strict grandparents, she’s cultivated a whimsical fantasy life in which she plays the heroic detective and every stranger is a suspect. But her solitary world expands when she takes a job the summer before college, working the graveyard shift at a historic Seattle hotel.<br />
<br />
In her new job, Birdie hopes to blossom from introverted dreamer to brave pioneer, and gregarious Daniel Aoki volunteers to be her guide. The hotel’s charismatic young van driver shares the same nocturnal shift and patronizes the waterfront Moonlight Diner where she waits for the early morning ferry after work. Daniel also shares her appetite for intrigue, and he’s stumbled upon a real-life mystery: a famous reclusive writer—never before seen in public—might be secretly meeting someone at the hotel.<br />
<br />
To uncover the writer’s puzzling identity, Birdie must come out of her shell…discovering that most confounding mystery of all may be her growing feelings for the elusive riddle that is Daniel. [goodreads]</blockquote>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/36511805-serious-moonlight">Add to goodreads</a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1532996380l/40087230.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="314" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1532996380l/40087230.jpg" width="131" /></a></div>
<blockquote>
<span style="font-size: large;">If I'm Being Honest by Emily Wibberley & Austin Siegemund-Broka</span><br />
<u>To be published</u>: April 23, 2019<br />
<u>About the book</u>:<br />
High school senior Cameron Bright’s reputation can be summed up in one word: bitch. It’s no surprise she’s queen bee at her private L.A. high school—she’s beautiful, talented, and notorious for her cutting and brutal honesty. So when she puts her foot in her mouth in front of her crush, Andrew, she fears she may have lost him for good. <br />
<br />
In an attempt to win him over, Cameron resolves to “tame” herself, much like Katherine in Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew. First, she’ll have to make amends with those she’s wronged, which leads her to Brendan, the guy she labelled with an unfortunate nickname back in the sixth grade. At first, Brendan isn’t all that receptive to Cameron’s ploy. But slowly, he warms up to her when they connect over the computer game he’s developing. Now if only Andrew would notice…<br />
<br />
But the closer Cameron gets to Brendan, the more she sees he appreciates her personality—honesty and all—and wonders if she’s compromising who she is for the guy she doesn’t even want. [goodreads]</blockquote>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/40087230-if-i-m-being-honest">Add to goodreads</a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1542181365l/36584899.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="315" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1542181365l/36584899.jpg" width="132" /></a></div>
<blockquote>
<span style="font-size: large;">Hope and Other Punchlines by Julie Buxbaum</span><br />
<u>To be published</u>: May 7, 2019<br />
<u>About the book</u>:<br />
Sometimes looking to the past helps you find your future.<br />
<br />
Abbi Hope Goldstein is like every other teenager, with a few smallish exceptions: her famous alter ego, Baby Hope, is the subject of internet memes, she has asthma, and sometimes people spontaneously burst into tears when they recognize her. Abbi has lived almost her entire life in the shadow of the terrorist attacks of September 11. On that fateful day, she was captured in what became an iconic photograph: in the picture, Abbi (aka "Baby Hope") wears a birthday crown and grasps a red balloon; just behind her, the South Tower of the World Trade Center is collapsing. <br />
<br />
Now, fifteen years later, Abbi is desperate for anonymity and decides to spend the summer before her seventeenth birthday incognito as a counsellor at Knights Day Camp two towns away. She's psyched for eight weeks in the company of four-year-olds, none of whom have ever heard of Baby Hope. <br />
<br />
Too bad Noah Stern, whose own world was irrevocably shattered on that terrible day, has a similar summer plan. Noah believes his meeting Baby Hope is fate. Abbi is sure it's a disaster. Soon, though, the two team up to ask difficult questions about the history behind the Baby Hope photo. But is either of them ready to hear the answers? [goodreads]</blockquote>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/36584899-hope-and-other-punchlines">Add to goodreads</a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1521642419l/39338454.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="317" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1521642419l/39338454.jpg" width="133" /></a></div>
<blockquote>
<span style="font-size: large;">The Bride Test by Helen Hoang</span><br />
<u>To be published</u>: May 7, 2019<br />
<u>About the book</u>:<br />
Khai Diep has no feelings. Well, he feels irritation when people move his things or contentment when ledgers balance down to the penny, but not big, important emotions—like grief. And love. He thinks he’s defective. His family knows better—that his autism means he just processes emotions differently. When he steadfastly avoids relationships, his mother takes matters into her own hands and returns to Vietnam to find him the perfect bride.<br />
<br />
As a mixed-race girl living in the slums of Ho Chi Minh City, Esme Tran has always felt out of place. When the opportunity arises to come to America and meet a potential husband, she can’t turn it down, thinking this could be the break her family needs. Seducing Khai, however, doesn’t go as planned. Esme’s lessons in love seem to be working…but only on herself. She’s hopelessly smitten with a man who’s convinced he can never return her affection.<br />
<br />
With Esme’s time in the United States dwindling, Khai is forced to understand he’s been wrong all along. And there’s more than one way to love. [goodreads]</blockquote>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/39338454-the-bride-test">Add to goodreads</a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1542156624l/36992163.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="311" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1542156624l/36992163.jpg" width="130" /></a></div>
<blockquote>
<span style="font-size: large;">Somewhere Only We Know by Maurene Goo</span><br />
<u>To be published</u>: May 7, 2019<br />
<u>About the book</u>:<br />
10:00 p.m.: Lucky is the biggest K-pop star on the scene, and she's just performed her hit song "Heartbeat" in Hong Kong to thousands of adoring fans. She's about to debut on The Tonight Show in America, hopefully a breakout performance for her career. But right now? She's in her fancy hotel, trying to fall asleep but dying for a hamburger.<br />
<br />
11:00 p.m.: Jack is sneaking into a fancy hotel, on assignment for his tabloid job that he keeps secret from his parents. On his way out of the hotel, he runs into a girl wearing slippers, a girl who is single-mindedly determined to find a hamburger. She looks kind of familiar. She's very cute. He's maybe curious.<br />
<br />
12:00 a.m.: Nothing will ever be the same. [goodreads]</blockquote>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/36992163-somewhere-only-we-know">Add to goodreads</a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1530043299l/36492488.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="314" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1530043299l/36492488.jpg" width="131" /></a></div>
<blockquote>
<span style="font-size: large;">We Hunt the Flame by Hafsah Faizal</span><br />
<u>To be published</u>: May 14, 2019<br />
<u>About the book</u>:<br />
People lived because she killed.<br />
People died because he lived.<br />
<br />
Zafira is the Hunter, disguising herself as a man when she braves the cursed forest of the Arz to feed her people. Nasir is the Prince of Death, assassinating those foolish enough to defy his autocratic father, the king. If Zafira was exposed as a girl, all of her achievements would be rejected; if Nasir displayed his compassion, his father would punish him in the most brutal of ways. <br />
<br />
Both are legends in the kingdom of Arawiya—but neither wants to be.<br />
<br />
War is brewing, and the Arz sweeps closer with each passing day, engulfing the land in shadow. When Zafira embarks on a quest to uncover a lost artifact that can restore magic to her suffering world and stop the Arz, Nasir is sent by the king on a similar mission: retrieve the artifact and kill the Hunter. But an ancient evil stirs as their journey unfolds—and the prize they seek may pose a threat greater than either can imagine.<br />
<br />
Set in a richly detailed world inspired by ancient Arabia, We Hunt the Flame is a gripping debut of discovery, conquering fear, and taking identity into your own hands. [goodreads]</blockquote>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/36492488-we-hunt-the-flame">Add to goodreads</a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1352246550p8/6556689.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="431" data-original-width="700" height="123" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1352246550p8/6556689.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<blockquote>
<span style="font-size: large;">The Unhoneymooners by Christina Lauren</span> (Book Cover Coming Soon!)<br />
<u>To be published</u>: May 14, 2019<br />
<u>About the book</u>:<br />
Olive is always unlucky: in her career, in love, in…well, everything. Her identical twin sister Amy, on the other hand, is probably the luckiest person in the world. Her meet-cute with her fiancé is something out of a romantic comedy (gag) and she’s managed to finance her entire wedding by winning a series of Internet contests (double gag). Worst of all, she’s forcing Olive to spend the day with her sworn enemy, Ethan, who just happens to be the best man.<br />
<br />
Olive braces herself to get through 24 hours of wedding hell before she can return to her comfortable, unlucky life. But when the entire wedding party gets food poisoning from eating bad shellfish, the only people who aren’t affected are Olive and Ethan. And now there’s an all-expenses-paid honeymoon in Hawaii up for grabs.<br />
<br />
Putting their mutual hatred aside for the sake of a free vacation, Olive and Ethan head for paradise, determined to avoid each other at all costs. But when Olive runs into her future boss, the little white lie she tells him is suddenly at risk to become a whole lot bigger. She and Ethan now have to pretend to be loving newlyweds, and her luck seems worse than ever. But the weird thing is that she doesn’t mind playing pretend. In fact, she feels kind of... lucky. [goodreads]</blockquote>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/42201431-the-unhoneymooners">Add to goodreads</a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1538914043l/42202094.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="306" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1538914043l/42202094.jpg" width="128" /></a></div>
<blockquote>
<span style="font-size: large;">Passion on Park Avenue by Lauren Layne</span><br />
<u>To be published</u>: May 28, 2019<br />
<u>About the book</u>:<br />
For as long as she can remember, Bronx-born Naomi Powell has had one goal: to prove her worth among the Upper East Side elite—the same people for which her mom worked as a housekeeper. Now, as the strongminded, sassy CEO of one of the biggest jewelry empires in the country, Naomi finally has exactly what she wants—but it’s going to take more than just the right address to make Manhattan’s upper class stop treating her like an outsider.<br />
<br />
The worst offender is her new neighbor, Oliver Cunningham—the grown son of the very family Naomi’s mother used to work for. Oliver used to torment Naomi when they were children, and as a ridiculously attractive adult, he’s tormenting her in entirely different ways. Now they find themselves engaged in a battle-of-wills that will either consume or destroy them…<br />
<br />
Filled with charm and heart and plenty of sex and snark, this entertaining series will hook you from the very first page. [goodreads]</blockquote>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/42202094-passion-on-park-avenue">Add to goodreads</a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1544730803l/40969415.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="317" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1544730803l/40969415.jpg" width="133" /></a></div>
<blockquote>
<span style="font-size: large;">Waiting for Tom Hanks by Kerry Winfrey</span><br />
<u>To be published</u>: June 18, 2019<br />
<u>About the book</u>:<br />
Can a romcom-obssessed romantic finally experience the meet-cute she always dreamed of or will reality never compare to fiction, in this charming debut adult novel from Kerry Winfrey.<br />
<br />
Annie is twenty-seven years old, single, and obsessed with romantic comedies (she and her mother watched them religiously, before her mom died). Her dating life is limited by the expectations she’s formed from these movies. She is not as open to new experiences as she might be, because she’s waiting for her Tom Hanks–i.e., a guy she’ll find in the perfect, meet-cute romantic comedy way. When Annie does finally meet her perfect match, it’s not quite in the way she expected, and she’s forced to reckon with the walls she’s built around herself over the years. [goodreads]</blockquote>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/40969415-waiting-for-tom-hanks">Add to goodreads</a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1372181953p5/2987.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="266" data-original-width="177" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1372181953p5/2987.jpg" width="133" /></a></div>
<blockquote>
<span style="font-size: large;">The Rest of the Story by Sarah Dessen</span> (Cover Coming Soon!)<br />
<u>To be published</u>: June 4, 2019<br />
<u>About the book</u>:<br />
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.<br />
<br />
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.<br />
<br />
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.<br />
<br />
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.<br />
<br />
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]</blockquote>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/42245770-the-rest-of-the-story">Add to goodreads</a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1534296928l/40864742.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="261" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1534296928l/40864742.jpg" width="130" /></a></div>
<blockquote>
<span style="font-size: large;">Better Than the Best Plan by Lauren Morrill</span><br />
<u>To be published</u>: June 25, 2019<br />
<u>About the book</u>:<br />
It's the last day of junior year, and seventeen-year-old Ritzy--short for Maritza--is pretty sure she has a great plan. Summer job--check. Hang with friends at the beach--check. Keep looking after herself as she's been doing since her mom bailed to follow her bliss--check. Or no check?<br />
<br />
After someone reports that Ritzy is living alone, a social worker shows up and puts her into foster care. That's surprise enough. Even more surprising? Ritzy has been in foster care before, as an infant, and the woman who cared for her then takes her in again. But maybe the greatest surprise of all for Ritzy is that living with her foster mother, Kristin, in Kristin's gorgeous house, isn't all that bad. And neither is the cute, friendly boy next door. If Ritzy's mom hadn't gotten her back all those years ago, this is the life she could have had. But is it the life she should have had?<br />
<br />
When Ritzy's old life catches up with her new one, she has some decisions to make. Can she plan for the worst, but still hope for the best? [goodreads]</blockquote>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/40864742-better-than-the-best-plan">Add to goodreads</a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1540790198l/42517000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="473" data-original-width="318" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1540790198l/42517000.jpg" width="134" /></a></div>
<blockquote>
<span style="font-size: large;">Dating by the Book by Mary Ann Marlowe</span><br />
<u>To be published</u>: June 25, 2019<br />
<u>About the book</u>:<br />
Six months ago, writer and bookstore owner Maddie Hanson was left at the altar. Since then, she’s had zero interest in romance—despite the fact that she runs a book club full of sexy eligible bachelors. But when her latest novel is panned by an anonymous blogger who goes by the name Silver Fox—and who accuses her of knowing nothing about passion—she decides to prove her nemesis wrong by seeking a romance hero in real life . . .<br />
<br />
There’s the smoldering rock musician, the bookish college professor, and her competitive childhood friend who may want to steal her bookstore more than her heart. Even Silver Fox is getting in on the action, sending Maddie alarmingly—and intoxicatingly—flirtatious emails. And that’s not all. Her ex wants her back.<br />
<br />
Now Maddie is about to discover that like any good story, life has twists and turns, and love can happen when you least expect it—with the person you least expect . . . [goodreads]</blockquote>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/42517000-dating-by-the-book">Add to goodreads</a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1544056270l/42455873.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="317" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1544056270l/42455873.jpg" width="133" /></a></div>
<blockquote>
<span style="font-size: large;">The Wedding Party by Jasmine Guillory</span><br />
<u>To be published</u>: July 16, 2019<br />
<u>About the book</u>:<br />
Maddie and Theo have two things in common:<br />
<br />
1. Alexa is their best friend<br />
2. They hate each other<br />
<br />
After an "oops, we made a mistake" night together, neither one can stop thinking about the other. With Alexa's wedding rapidly approaching, Maddie and Theo both share bridal party responsibilities that require more interaction with each other than they're comfortable with. Underneath the sharp barbs they toss at each other is a simmering attraction that won't fade. It builds until they find themselves sneaking off together to release some tension when Alexa isn't looking, agreeing they would end it once the wedding is over. When it’s suddenly pushed up and they only have a few months left of secret rendezvouses, they find themselves regretting that the end is near. Two people this different can’t possibly have a connection other than the purely physical, right?<br />
<br />
But as with any engagement with a nemesis, there are unspoken rules that must be abided by. First and foremost, don't fall in love. [goodreads]</blockquote>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/42455873-the-wedding-party">Add to goodreads</a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1543966730l/40221961.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="306" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1543966730l/40221961.jpg" width="128" /></a></div>
<blockquote>
<span style="font-size: large;">Brazen and the Beast by Sarah MacLean</span><br />
<u>To be published</u>: July 30, 2019<br />
<u>About the book</u>:<br />
<i>The Lady’s Plan</i><br />
<br />
When Lady Henrietta Sedley declares her twenty-ninth year her own, she has plans. Plans to inherit her father’s business, to make her own fortune and to live her own life. But first, she has plans to experience a taste of the pleasure she’ll forgo as a confirmed spinster. She does not, however, plan to find the most beautiful man she’s ever seen tied up in her carriage and threatening to ruin The Year of Hattie before it's even begun.<br />
<br />
<i>The Bastard’s Proposal</i><br />
<br />
When he wakes in a carriage at Hattie's feet, Whit, a king of Covent Garden known to all the world as Beast, can’t help but wonder about the strange woman who frees him--especially when he discovers her plans for a night of pleasure…on his turf. He is more than happy to offer Hattie all she desires...for a price.<br />
<br />
<i>An Unexpected Passion</i><br />
<br />
Soon, Hattie and Whit find themselves rivals in business and pleasure: she won't give up her plans; he won't give up his power...but neither of them see that if they're not careful, they'll have no choice but to give up everything...including their hearts. [goodreads]</blockquote>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/40221961-brazen-and-the-beast">Add to goodreads</a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1537799806l/40864797.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="317" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1537799806l/40864797.jpg" width="133" /></a></div>
<blockquote>
<span style="font-size: large;">How the Light Gets in by Katy Upperman</span><br />
<u>To be published</u>: August 6, 2019<br />
<u>About the book</u>:<br />
Since her sister’s tragic death, seventeen-year-old Callie Ryan has basically given up. Her grades have plummeted, she’s quit her swim team, and she barely recognizes the people her parents once were.<br />
<br />
When she returns to her aunt’s run-down coastal Victorian one year after Chloe’s death, Callie resigns herself to a summer of guilt and home renovations. She doesn’t expect to be charmed by the tiny coastal town or by Tucker Morgan, a local boy brimming with sunshine.<br />
<br />
But even as her days begin to brighten, Callie’s nights are crowded with chilling dreams, unanswered questions, and eerie phenomenon that have her convinced she’s being haunted. Will Callie be able to figure out what her sister is trying to communicate before it’s too late? [goodreads]</blockquote>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/40864797-how-the-light-gets-in">Add to goodreads</a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1545801355l/40972652.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="234" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1545801355l/40972652.jpg" width="116" /></a></div>
<blockquote>
<span style="font-size: large;">The Wallflower Wager by Tessa Dare</span><br />
<u>To be published</u>: August 27, 2019<br />
<u>About the book</u>:<br />
To an undaunted wallflower, he's just the beast next door. <br />
<br />
Wealthy and ruthless, Gabriel Duke clawed his way from the lowliest slums to the pinnacle of high society—and now he wants to get even.<br />
<br />
Loyal and passionate, Lady Penelope Campion never met a lost or wounded creature she wouldn’t take into her home and her heart.<br />
<br />
When her imposing—and attractive—new neighbor demands she clear out the rescued animals, Penny sets him a challenge. She will part with her precious charges, if he can find them loving homes.<br />
<br />
Done, Gabriel says. How hard can it be to find homes for a few kittens?<br />
<br />
And a two-legged dog.<br />
<br />
And a foul-mouthed parrot.<br />
<br />
And a goat, an otter, a hedgehog . . .<br />
<br />
Easier said than done, for a cold-blooded bastard who wouldn’t know a loving home from a workhouse. Soon he’s covered in cat hair, knee-deep in adorable, and bewitched by a shyly pretty spinster who defies his every attempt to resist. Now she’s set her mind and heart on saving him.<br />
<br />
Not if he ruins her first. [goodreads]</blockquote>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/43080479-the-wallflower-wager">Add to goodreads</a></div>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Books I have on my 2019 radar, but specific details have not been released yet...</span><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">The Map From Here to There by Emery Lord</span> (sequel to <i>The Start of Me and You</i>, expected publication date for October 2019)</li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Dear Sweet Pea by Julie Murphy</span> (middle grade book set in the same world as <i>Dumplin'</i>, expected publication date for May 2019)</li>
</ul>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Books I've read that will be publishing in 2019...</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span> <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1534662365l/41044784.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="317" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1534662365l/41044784.jpg" width="133" /></a></div>
<blockquote>
<span style="font-size: large;">Cold Day in the Sun by Sara Biren</span><br />
<u>To be published</u>: March 12, 2019<br />
<u>About the book</u>:<br />
Holland Delviss wants to be known for her talent as a hockey player, not a hockey player who happens to be a girl. But when her school team is selected to be featured and televised as part of HockeyFest, her status as the only girl on the boys’ team makes her the lead story. Not everyone is thrilled with Holland’s new fame, but there’s one person who fiercely supports her, and it’s the last person she expects (and definitely the last person she should be falling for): her bossy team captain, Wes. [goodreads]</blockquote>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/41044784-cold-day-in-the-sun">Add to goodreads</a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1528473535l/36146624.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="315" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1528473535l/36146624.jpg" width="132" /></a></div>
<blockquote>
<span style="font-size: large;">You'd Be Mine by Erin Hahn</span><br />
<u>To be published</u>: April 2, 2019<br />
<u>About the book</u>:<br />
Annie Mathers is America’s sweetheart and heir to a country music legacy full of all the things her Gran warned her about. Superstar Clay Coolidge is most definitely going to end up one of those things. <br />
<br />
But unfortunately for Clay, if he can’t convince Annie to join his summer tour, his music label is going to drop him. That’s what happens when your bad boy image turns into bad boy reality. Annie has been avoiding the spotlight after her parents’ tragic death, except on her skyrocketing YouTube channel. Clay’s label wants to land Annie, and Clay has to make it happen. <br />
<br />
Swayed by Clay’s undeniable charm and good looks, Annie and her band agree to join the tour. From the start fans want them to be more than just tour mates, and Annie and Clay can’t help but wonder if the fans are right. But if there’s one part of fame Annie wants nothing to do with, it’s a high-profile relationship. She had a front row seat to her parents’ volatile marriage and isn’t interested in repeating history. If only she could convince her heart that Clay, with his painful past and head over heels inducing tenor, isn’t worth the risk. [goodreads]</blockquote>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/36146624-you-d-be-mine">Add to goodreads</a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1543439507l/34024800.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="307" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1543439507l/34024800.jpg" width="128" /></a></div>
<blockquote>
<span style="font-size: large;">One Night at the Lake by Bethany Chase</span><br />
<u>To be published</u>: June 18, 2019<br />
<u>About the book</u>:<br />
A tragedy on a hot summer night at a lake house forever alters the lives of two best friends—and the man they both love. But the truth isn’t as simple as it appears in this intricate novel of love, friendship, betrayal, and forgiveness in the tradition of Miranda Beverly-Whittemore’s Bittersweet.<br />
<br />
Leah Tessaro has been waiting for this moment for a long time: Her boyfriend, Ollie, is taking her to his family’s home on Seneca Lake for a week of lazy summer bliss, boating, and barbeque. The couple has been together for four years, and Leah is convinced that Ollie is finally going to pop the question. And Leah can’t wait to share the joyous news with her best friend, June Kang, who is joining them on their getaway, and whose presence will make everything feel more real. <br />
<br />
Seven years later, the moment June has been dreading has finally arrived: Her fiancé, Ollie, is taking her to his family’s lake house. But this is not an ordinary visit to an ordinary place; it is a house haunted by June’s long-buried memories of her lost friend, Leah—and the connection that appears to remain between Leah and the man for whom June’s love is as deep as her sense of foreboding.<br />
<br />
Alternating between the two women’s vibrant voices, One Night at the Lake is a gripping novel that explores a complex tangle of friendship, loyalty, and betrayal, all driving toward one question: What exactly happened to Leah on that hot summer night? [goodreads]</blockquote>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/34024800-one-night-at-the-lake">Add to goodreads</a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1545487295l/42201417.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="314" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1545487295l/42201417.jpg" width="131" /></a></div>
<blockquote>
<span style="font-size: large;">Start Here by Trish Doller</span><br />
<u>To be published</u>: August 13, 2019<br />
<u>About the book</u>:<br />
Willa and Taylor were supposed to spend the summer after high school sailing from Ohio to Key West with their best friend, Finley. But Finley died before graduation, leaving them with a twenty-five-foot sailboat, a list of clues leading them to destinations along the way, and a friendship that’s hanging by a thread.<br />
<br />
Now, Willa and Taylor have two months and two thousand miles to discover how life works without Finley—and to decide if their own friendship is worth saving.<br />
<br />
From acclaimed author Trish Doller comes a poignant tale of forgiveness, grief, and the brilliant discoveries we make within ourselves when we least expect it. [goodreads]</blockquote>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/42201417-start-here">Add to goodreads</a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Happy New Year, friends! And as always, Happy Reading!</span></div>
<br />
<img align="left" height="96" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYGTxPNVhGVEXLtJzHacqN6v8oqsIngtyuVSFJR2aV3R0YM6Tu4hx6dmu6GNoqfqCCjN9biK7UyY92rU786Gpu0ZFSYs8epPcE4ZaZyQE6fEHKbQsciqf-iZ-20R51tQs3j3eogCpDcJYS/s640/sig2.png" style="border: 0pt none;" width="640" />Ginger @ GReads!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17725314423163879042noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9180446384835146464.post-21907501827961362312018-12-28T00:00:00.000-06:002018-12-28T00:00:04.490-06:00My Favorite Reads of 2018<br />
It's that time of year again! Time to look back on all the books I've read in 2018 and choose which ones are my favorites. I did A LOT of reading this year. Way more than I have in the past, especially over my summer months. I read more adult books than young adult books, definitely heavy on the romance - um, I am Ginger after all, & I LOVE a good romance!<br />
<br />
While I sit here with a cocktail in hand, listening to my <a href="https://open.spotify.com/user/spotify/playlist/37i9dQZF1EjiSfCSSisq9D?si=FqENLgCEQcuFbsrTlLlbgg">Top Songs of 2018</a> (courtesy of Spotify), and trying to remember what day it is (hey, I'm a teacher on holiday break, don't judge!), I'm realizing that I've spent the majority of my year reading exactly what I want. That may mean I picked up a favorite book and read it twice, or maybe even for a third or fourth time. I did not pressure myself to finish a book if I wasn't feeling it, either. Reading is my happy place and I refuse to waste moments in that happy place with things that don't, well, make me happy.<br />
<br />
So, in no particular order, here are my favorites I read in 2018...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4Km0e3g5bSHQp7wGoaTAhAwV2oDVjTGhcHKG2FIX8BphjD_T1EEyLgt4_F8F69m7ZirNsEHf7HiWqYjQw7YnvIJ-2EUBACly3OppOlriE10gU6CnppGkHgaa3TXFq7w7dsNqTBZDFoZeZ/s1600/2018+faves.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="312" data-original-width="820" height="243" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4Km0e3g5bSHQp7wGoaTAhAwV2oDVjTGhcHKG2FIX8BphjD_T1EEyLgt4_F8F69m7ZirNsEHf7HiWqYjQw7YnvIJ-2EUBACly3OppOlriE10gU6CnppGkHgaa3TXFq7w7dsNqTBZDFoZeZ/s640/2018+faves.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1506961175m/28269171.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /><img border="0" data-original-height="148" data-original-width="98" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1506961175m/28269171.jpg" /></a><a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1413009102m/23354047.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="147" data-original-width="98" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1413009102m/23354047.jpg" /></a><a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1497542946m/35297469.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="148" data-original-width="98" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1497542946m/35297469.jpg" /></a><a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1459881973m/29074768.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="147" data-original-width="98" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1459881973m/29074768.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1402915678m/19547856.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="147" data-original-width="98" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1402915678m/19547856.jpg" /></a><a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1505855827m/35704397.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="147" data-original-width="98" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1505855827m/35704397.jpg" /></a><a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1506446274m/35795898.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="147" data-original-width="98" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1506446274m/35795898.jpg" /></a><a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1521640270m/32333296.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="148" data-original-width="98" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1521640270m/32333296.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1526999838m/40193043.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="147" data-original-width="98" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1526999838m/40193043.jpg" /></a><a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1451878020m/28444719.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="148" data-original-width="98" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1451878020m/28444719.jpg" /></a><a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1534662365m/41044784.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="147" data-original-width="98" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1534662365m/41044784.jpg" /></a><a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1528473535m/36146624.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="148" data-original-width="98" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1528473535m/36146624.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1527983633m/36199084.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="147" data-original-width="98" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1527983633m/36199084.jpg" /></a><a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1509919295m/35180949.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="155" data-original-width="98" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1509919295m/35180949.jpg" /></a><a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1519633303m/36206591.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="148" data-original-width="98" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1519633303m/36206591.jpg" /></a><a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1522688099m/37584991.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="147" data-original-width="98" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1522688099m/37584991.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1515028176m/36313515.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="155" data-original-width="98" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1515028176m/36313515.jpg" /></a><a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1526994464m/39944217.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="152" data-original-width="98" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1526994464m/39944217.jpg" /></a><a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1497332059m/31450913.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="148" data-original-width="98" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1497332059m/31450913.jpg" /></a><a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1533058458m/38357345.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="152" data-original-width="98" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1533058458m/38357345.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1542744759m/42883009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="158" data-original-width="98" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1542744759m/42883009.jpg" /></a><a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1522881646m/37971515.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="147" data-original-width="98" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1522881646m/37971515.jpg" /></a><a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1508174072m/35068736.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="148" data-original-width="98" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1508174072m/35068736.jpg" /></a><a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1517431977m/36111620.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="160" data-original-width="93" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1517431977m/36111620.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
And because this list wouldn't be complete without ALL of my favorites, here are my past loves that I revisited a second time (some a third or fourth time) this year...</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1330240154m/13500758.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="152" data-original-width="98" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1330240154m/13500758.jpg" /></a><a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1454256730m/25964108.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="153" data-original-width="98" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1454256730m/25964108.jpg" /></a><a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1453873095m/26211610.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="148" data-original-width="98" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1453873095m/26211610.jpg" /></a><a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1336837143m/9403947.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="152" data-original-width="98" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1336837143m/9403947.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1479774148m/15832932.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="148" data-original-width="98" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1479774148m/15832932.jpg" /></a><a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1403897439m/21469068.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="146" data-original-width="98" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1403897439m/21469068.jpg" /></a><a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1537141335m/41859080.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="157" data-original-width="98" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1537141335m/41859080.jpg" /></a><a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1467138679m/25883848.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="148" data-original-width="98" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1467138679m/25883848.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
To see my full list of what I read this year, and to get more details about a certain book pictured above, <b><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/user_challenges/10426615">check out my goodreads list here.</a></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Did you read any of my favorites this year, too? Let me know in the comments. If not, tell me some of your favorites so I can add them to my own to-be-read list for 2019!</div>
<br />
<br />
<img align="left" height="96" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYGTxPNVhGVEXLtJzHacqN6v8oqsIngtyuVSFJR2aV3R0YM6Tu4hx6dmu6GNoqfqCCjN9biK7UyY92rU786Gpu0ZFSYs8epPcE4ZaZyQE6fEHKbQsciqf-iZ-20R51tQs3j3eogCpDcJYS/s640/sig2.png" style="border: 0pt none;" width="640" />Ginger @ GReads!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17725314423163879042noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9180446384835146464.post-2216593242438418502018-10-08T00:00:00.000-05:002018-10-08T00:00:07.998-05:00Cover Reveal: START HERE by Trish Doller<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw8KlCNC6Tn6gn2OLz9n_89De7sK9UziolV64g6Dm4x8FxX9N56ZA2WdatTM_gJzfwA0DJpUri7ej4PqXcXRUC7bQch2bWqoYM6XKkcUMHiszaLUH5QjQ5SsiorWIe52XqFGyJxE1j52gJ/s1600/start+here+cover+reveal.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="563" data-original-width="1600" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw8KlCNC6Tn6gn2OLz9n_89De7sK9UziolV64g6Dm4x8FxX9N56ZA2WdatTM_gJzfwA0DJpUri7ej4PqXcXRUC7bQch2bWqoYM6XKkcUMHiszaLUH5QjQ5SsiorWIe52XqFGyJxE1j52gJ/s640/start+here+cover+reveal.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I am SO excited to be sharing the cover reveal for Trish Doller's next YA novel, <b>START HERE</b>. This story is everything I love: adventure, heartache, discovery, and the rich beauty of Trish's gorgeous words. No one tells a story like her! The cover for this novel captures all of those details so brilliantly. See the gorgeous cover below and find out more about this book with a playlist, a list of inspirations + a moodboard from Trish Doller, and an excerpt from the story. Then, make sure you add the novel to your <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/28101568-start-here">goodreads</a>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG71My80U1oIzBPJvdISE9GXbr6jN-ivSbtrrXw1_K2dznfHA9L_WRuZ5eqIY65-EqQLI6IWO6lXhy6xZ56xH02jzTBC7hXZ7O5twD2OswWMTK-uKUVM5AYTyIoM07qWCUEwhjnHk-PnOe/s1600/START+HERE+final.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG71My80U1oIzBPJvdISE9GXbr6jN-ivSbtrrXw1_K2dznfHA9L_WRuZ5eqIY65-EqQLI6IWO6lXhy6xZ56xH02jzTBC7hXZ7O5twD2OswWMTK-uKUVM5AYTyIoM07qWCUEwhjnHk-PnOe/s640/START+HERE+final.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<blockquote>
<b>About the book:</b> Willa and Taylor were supposed to spend the summer after high school sailing from Ohio to Key West with their best friend, Finley. But when Finley dies just before graduation, the two girls are left with a twenty-five-foot sailboat, a list of clues leading them to destinations along the way, and a friendship that’s hanging by a thread.<br />
<br />
Now, Willa and Taylor have two months and two thousand miles to discover how life works without Finley—and to decide if their own friendship is even worth saving.<br />
<br />
From acclaimed author Trish Doller comes a poignant tale of forgiveness, grief, and the brilliant discoveries we make within ourselves when we least expect it.</blockquote>
<div style="text-align: center;">
add to <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/28101568-start-here"><b>GOODREADS</b></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSJTKcxqOIwHKemUGFS9VxF-JLZOI6wIoc4Va23DbpUlj29dNwEF6M4Mlpu7vIMXDn7o6sjNpJqDpa2xjtr9DJMFdlruFe4QG1PrsnZ5B1Y3l628eAFSyrfioYmPXwU4KrdxZmPw__oVUs/s1600/start+here+playlist.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="563" data-original-width="1600" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSJTKcxqOIwHKemUGFS9VxF-JLZOI6wIoc4Va23DbpUlj29dNwEF6M4Mlpu7vIMXDn7o6sjNpJqDpa2xjtr9DJMFdlruFe4QG1PrsnZ5B1Y3l628eAFSyrfioYmPXwU4KrdxZmPw__oVUs/s640/start+here+playlist.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<center>
<iframe allowtransparency="true" frameborder="0" height="380" src="https://embed.spotify.com/?uri=spotify%3Auser%3A123619597%3Aplaylist%3A6xEElmFNU8XsMRBKQnKNsj" width="300"></iframe></center>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Click <a href="https://open.spotify.com/user/123619597/playlist/6xEElmFNU8XsMRBKQnKNsj">HERE</a> to listen to the playlist for Start Here</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx7WR3m-pP3uiF1iyYPB0XVlBfoCo53KbP35DNcK2V86hItVkS8GMYSyK6PHKAhVCVvf00ICfaA2aChysn3var7d_2Pg91WehHKbOFdSuFtenvz8bpz3Y5Fn77yRiJ7B8RUq-mnArbzrCh/s1600/start+here+inspirations.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="563" data-original-width="1600" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx7WR3m-pP3uiF1iyYPB0XVlBfoCo53KbP35DNcK2V86hItVkS8GMYSyK6PHKAhVCVvf00ICfaA2aChysn3var7d_2Pg91WehHKbOFdSuFtenvz8bpz3Y5Fn77yRiJ7B8RUq-mnArbzrCh/s640/start+here+inspirations.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
1. One day I was listening to Frank Turner on Spotify and <a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/5C7Z8Yoy9gNJY4qhSOO6aJ">Long Live the Queen</a> came on. For those of you not inclined to click links, it's a song about a dying friend and the key lines are: "You'll live to dance another day. It's just now you'll have to dance for the two of us." Frank Turner has the ability to wring my emotions dry with his lyrics and I decided I wanted to write a book to capture the way Long Live the Queen makes me feel. I just had no idea what it would be about.<br />
<br />
2. I was working on a different project about sailing when I did a google image search for the Bahamas. One of the results lead me to a sailing blog called <a href="https://katieandjessieonaboat.com/">katieandjessieonaboat.com</a>. Katie and Jessie are friends who decided to travel America's Great Loop together on a 27-foot sailboat. (The Great Loop is a circular route that begins and ends in the Great Lakes, following several different waterway systems, including the Erie Canal and the Intracoastal Waterway.) I started reading their blog and by the end of the afternoon, I'd read the entire thing...and I had a setting.<br />
<br />
3. At the same time, for some who-knows-why reason, I was thinking about friendship trios and how there is always one person who is the "glue" friend. When I was in high school, I was in a trio with Girl A and Girl B. You can call me Girl C. When we hung out, it was either AB, AC, or ABC. BC was never a thing, even though we were friends. And when I examined my other friendship trios throughout life, it was almost always the same scenario. I spoke with other women and they all said they had similar experiences.<br />
<br />
So Frank, Katie, Jessie, Girl A, Girl B, and I all came together in a single day...and a story was born that I'm ridiculously excited about.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.pinterest.com/trishdoller/start-here/">CLICK HERE FOR THE GORGEOUS MOODBOARD</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge5JDMvVpC28pB7cVnl8pRStJdxTmrh0wYU7yz72E4W9HMKv6ECeJyjMQXCL6Y5SdNcOGMJFyLk_yIv4AGlHD9H5xEj1rviJo5hkPNec8qTwfct8K8QO9hbU85-jsJxF8kSlnmGCu5Oq4v/s1600/start+here+excerpt.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="563" data-original-width="1600" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge5JDMvVpC28pB7cVnl8pRStJdxTmrh0wYU7yz72E4W9HMKv6ECeJyjMQXCL6Y5SdNcOGMJFyLk_yIv4AGlHD9H5xEj1rviJo5hkPNec8qTwfct8K8QO9hbU85-jsJxF8kSlnmGCu5Oq4v/s640/start+here+excerpt.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<blockquote>
The car is out of sight when Willa gathers up her bedding and heads down the dock. The wood thumps beneath her tennis shoes, calling back memories—the crackle of sails, the scent of sunscreen, and the wet footprints their bare feet would make on the sun-warmed dock boards. She glances back, half expecting Finley to come running, her hair streaming behind her like a brown ribbon.<br />
<br />
“Let’s go!” She would shout, if she were here. “The world is waiting for us!”<br />
<br />
Willa would give anything, everything, to hear her best friend’s voice again. Just a couple of days ago, she was riding her bike down Meigs Street when she passed a teenage guy with a monster Afro pulling a little red wagon down the sidewalk. In the wagon was a bird cage with a brown-and-white rabbit inside. The whole scene was so sweet and absurd, that she automatically hit Finley’s speed dial to tell her about it. The recorded voice—this number is no longer in service—reminded her again that Finley was gone. The pain is lodged in Willa’s chest like a pebble in a shoe, and no matter how much she tries to shake it out, it won’t go away.</blockquote>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkqTylBGpS1WbYu8wNrLdbN4ffcXwarABN3kYF9sbypJA5yDLt81ON8ZJPNhbwbzoZtVh35nTcsWLwjG0P_tpMYjnSHscZ-x7LJxeWZweYTp1yy9Szg_BawOGQoHC3Xo4xtaJP4RLkAQEa/s1600/trish+doller+books.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="563" data-original-width="1600" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkqTylBGpS1WbYu8wNrLdbN4ffcXwarABN3kYF9sbypJA5yDLt81ON8ZJPNhbwbzoZtVh35nTcsWLwjG0P_tpMYjnSHscZ-x7LJxeWZweYTp1yy9Szg_BawOGQoHC3Xo4xtaJP4RLkAQEa/s640/trish+doller+books.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
While you wait for START HERE, be sure to check out Trish Doller's previous novels:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/9403947-something-like-normal">Something Like Normal</a> || <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/15826648-where-the-stars-still-shine">Where the Stars Still Shine</a> || <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22929537-the-devil-you-know">The Devil You Know</a> || <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/32333213-in-a-perfect-world">In a Perfect World</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Connect with Trish Doller: <a href="https://twitter.com/TrishDoller">twitter </a> || <a href="https://www.instagram.com/trishwritesbooks/">instagram</a> || <a href="https://www.trishdoller.com/">website</a></div>
<br />
<br />
<img align="left" height="96" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYGTxPNVhGVEXLtJzHacqN6v8oqsIngtyuVSFJR2aV3R0YM6Tu4hx6dmu6GNoqfqCCjN9biK7UyY92rU786Gpu0ZFSYs8epPcE4ZaZyQE6fEHKbQsciqf-iZ-20R51tQs3j3eogCpDcJYS/s640/sig2.png" style="border: 0pt none;" width="640" />Ginger @ GReads!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17725314423163879042noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9180446384835146464.post-11475812815340675272018-09-24T00:00:00.000-05:002018-09-24T00:00:08.829-05:008 Years of GReadsBooks!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8NG_AlNVP4Ry3VN93vGaIbVmvqQTlfCmPqqVNZ8buocQ8vgnu34IKEgbEi546bcXrWwumZRR1tgoGYFoqKW6eiKLFNugpFe14mrGZSEUdLrLjaeQ0SWkhzkj-LCpes4yxG8eGzDBmHsrP/s1600/8+years+greadsbooks+%25281%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="312" data-original-width="820" height="242" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8NG_AlNVP4Ry3VN93vGaIbVmvqQTlfCmPqqVNZ8buocQ8vgnu34IKEgbEi546bcXrWwumZRR1tgoGYFoqKW6eiKLFNugpFe14mrGZSEUdLrLjaeQ0SWkhzkj-LCpes4yxG8eGzDBmHsrP/s640/8+years+greadsbooks+%25281%2529.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Oh hello there! This week my blog turns 8 (yes, EIGHT!) years old!! It's hard to believe that I have been a constant in this bookish community over the course of eight years. That is such a long time if you consider how much has evolved since my early days here. What can I say, I love to read, and I will never grow tired of sharing that love with the world.<br />
<br />
If you've been with me since the beginning, THANK YOU. I appreciate your views and your comments, so much. When someone tells me that they've picked up a book (& enjoyed it!) because of my recommendation, it brings me such joy. I do this not because I have to, but because I simply want to. Reading is such a personal journey and when I have any sort of influence on that in a positive way for someone else, it creates such a good feeling inside of me.<br />
<br />
I've witnessed young writers in their early days blossom into beautiful, published authors. It's always been important to me to support their talents and I do it because I believe in their craft. To all the authors I've worked with in the past eight years, thank you for trusting me with your words -- it will always be an honor to read something early from you and promote it here.<br />
<br />
To the amazing publicists and editors I've worked with, thank you for thinking of me and taking a chance on my little space of the internet to share your authors' work. I know there is A LOT to choose from, especially now.<br />
<br />
For every reader out there, young & old, thank you for taking the time to visit my blog. Even if you don't leave a comment, I appreciate you checking out what I have to say and possibly discovering something new to read. If you've ever read a book because you saw me mention it, I would love to know!<br />
<br />
In celebration of my eight years in this bookish community, I want to say thank you by hosting a giveaway & supporting an indie bookstore that I have grown to love (& hope to visit one day soon!). This giveaway is open to U.S. residents only (due to shipping costs). Please enter the rafflecopter below for an opportunity to win a $25.00 gift certificate to <a href="https://www.therippedbodicela.com/">The Ripped Bodice - A Romantic Bookstore.</a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqHmYf5FlFcpFhVuBk5cPPakEU6auK78uC4NqbT3n_31R6OTlcDhTXCks7SyHkI0R_4dvztkqqecRi2N5q9vcwI3zE7M-pwU3LqyJe_UO-8AM36qzU4XYp85Z-weyxeCZzULCN9n5bozak/s1600/giveaway+%25283%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="312" data-original-width="820" height="243" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqHmYf5FlFcpFhVuBk5cPPakEU6auK78uC4NqbT3n_31R6OTlcDhTXCks7SyHkI0R_4dvztkqqecRi2N5q9vcwI3zE7M-pwU3LqyJe_UO-8AM36qzU4XYp85Z-weyxeCZzULCN9n5bozak/s640/giveaway+%25283%2529.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<a class="rcptr" data-raflid="c6f35a6d85" data-template="" data-theme="classic" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/c6f35a6d85/" id="rcwidget_0m9kxa76" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a><br />
<script src="https://widget-prime.rafflecopter.com/launch.js"></script><br />
<br />
<img align="left" height="96" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYGTxPNVhGVEXLtJzHacqN6v8oqsIngtyuVSFJR2aV3R0YM6Tu4hx6dmu6GNoqfqCCjN9biK7UyY92rU786Gpu0ZFSYs8epPcE4ZaZyQE6fEHKbQsciqf-iZ-20R51tQs3j3eogCpDcJYS/s640/sig2.png" style="border: 0pt none;" width="640" />Ginger @ GReads!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17725314423163879042noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9180446384835146464.post-13671814142357474492018-08-28T00:00:00.000-05:002018-08-28T00:00:01.678-05:00Review: Josh & Hazel's Guide to Not Dating by Christina Lauren<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://d28hgpri8am2if.cloudfront.net/book_images/onix/cvr9781501165856/josh-and-hazels-guide-to-not-dating-9781501165856_hr.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://d28hgpri8am2if.cloudfront.net/book_images/onix/cvr9781501165856/josh-and-hazels-guide-to-not-dating-9781501165856_hr.jpg" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="514" height="320" width="205" /></a></div>
<blockquote>
<b>Josh & Hazel's Guide to Not Dating by Christina Lauren</b><br />
<b><u>Published</u>: </b>September 4, 2018 by Gallery Books<br />
<b><u>About the book</u>:</b><br />
<br />
<b>Most men can’t handle Hazel. With the energy of a toddler and the mouth of a sailor, they’re often too timid to recognize her heart of gold. JOSH AND HAZEL’S GUIDE TO NOT DATING tells the story of two people who are definitely not dating, no matter how often they end up in bed together.</b><br />
<br />
Hazel Camille Bradford knows she’s a lot to take—and frankly, most men aren’t up to the challenge. If her army of pets and thrill for the absurd don’t send them running, her lack of filter means she’ll say exactly the wrong thing in a delicate moment. Their loss. She’s a good soul in search of honest fun.<br />
<br />
Josh Im has known Hazel since college, where her zany playfulness proved completely incompatible with his mellow restraint. From the first night they met—when she gracelessly threw up on his shoes—to when she sent him an unintelligible email while in a post-surgical haze, Josh has always thought of Hazel more as a spectacle than a peer. But now, ten years later, after a cheating girlfriend has turned his life upside down, going out with Hazel is a breath of fresh air.<br />
<br />
Not that Josh and Hazel date. At least, not each other. Because setting each other up on progressively terrible double blind dates means there’s nothing between them...right?</blockquote>
<br />
Move over all previous Christina Lauren books, because here comes a new favorite!! As soon as I got my hands on a new installment from the writing duo CLo, I stopped what I was doing (or reading, I should say) and cracked this baby open. I didn't want to stop until I was finished! Wait, no. I lied. I read so painstakingly slow because I DID NOT WANT IT TO END. Y'all, this adult contemporary ball of swoony goodness is everything I love about this powerhouse writing team. It is MAGIC.<br />
<br />
We first get to know Josh and Hazel during their college years. Though their first meeting is brief, it is still very much impressionable and the type of first encounters that lingers in your mind. As the story progresses and we meet a more grown up version of Josh and Hazel, there's an instant spark, the one you saw ignite early on and have been slowly watching as it spreads... hot... hotter... INSANELY HOT! GET THE FIRE EXTINGUISHER HOT! *fans self*<br />
<br />
The relationship of just friends, but you know -- good lord, do you KNOW -- that it's something so much more than just friends, is the best part about this entire story. As the reader, it's so obvious how they feel about one another. But it's the journey, as we sit back and watch these two characters come to that realization on their own terms, that fulfills this story on such a crave-worthy destination. Not once did I find myself yelling at the characters to figure out the obvious. I truly enjoyed their discoveries, in their own time.<br />
<br />
I like the risks these characters take. Hazel has always been carefree and extravagant. While Josh has been the more reserved, careful one. You would think they'd mix like oil and water. But there's a beauty in the connection they make, first as friends, then as something so much deeper and just more. I found myself having the Wild Seasons vibes (a previous Christina Lauren series that I absolutely adore and reread constantly), but mixed with a more emotional twist. I've already pre-ordered a signed copy and plan to reread this novel when it arrives. THAT is how much I love it.<br />
<br />
Josh and Hazel, you are yet another shining example of the brilliance that evolves from Christina and Lauren's beautiful, creative minds.<br />
<br />
<br />
<img align="left" height="96" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYGTxPNVhGVEXLtJzHacqN6v8oqsIngtyuVSFJR2aV3R0YM6Tu4hx6dmu6GNoqfqCCjN9biK7UyY92rU786Gpu0ZFSYs8epPcE4ZaZyQE6fEHKbQsciqf-iZ-20R51tQs3j3eogCpDcJYS/s640/sig2.png" style="border: 0pt none;" width="640" />Ginger @ GReads!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17725314423163879042noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9180446384835146464.post-13630709227368892018-08-09T00:00:00.000-05:002018-08-09T09:27:29.413-05:00Cover Reveal: Cold Day in the Sun by Sara Biren<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicVIRrZ6A1JxgG4ejGHnKo8m7ejIGgAs2y5dEC2lNt8172BskpE_UA6IPMZbb9XgSYH3II58Eas6TOuB7WRppxWX5wGS4HS8zPorfqHoNKbHQ5MeE7gkQv-g_ApuTc_BGNXfxnIzOliHti/s1600/cover+reveal.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="563" data-original-width="1600" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicVIRrZ6A1JxgG4ejGHnKo8m7ejIGgAs2y5dEC2lNt8172BskpE_UA6IPMZbb9XgSYH3II58Eas6TOuB7WRppxWX5wGS4HS8zPorfqHoNKbHQ5MeE7gkQv-g_ApuTc_BGNXfxnIzOliHti/s640/cover+reveal.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
I am so excited & feel very honored to be hosting the cover reveal for Sara Biren's next novel, <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/36527691-cold-day-in-the-sun"><b>Cold Day in the Sun</b></a>. Her debut novel, <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/33415072-the-last-thing-you-said"><b>The Last Thing You Said</b></a>, was one of my favorite reads of 2017 & I absolutely LOVE how these two different book covers compliment each other. <b>Cold Day in the Sun</b> will be published on March 12, 2019, and you can see the beautiful cover right here!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCQZ1rmdNaghkAWU-wFQmR6GJF3cOlMCWd_oeux-k_Gv16ktJXWyOq2ph0Hrt6airkfCQsAQ1qi2S53UChz-Kw8xVFA8mGAV_iErLd5KlpL9nVh-0tkPpD4QFwN3ynF0I83DHFzAhVbnnj/s1600/COLD-DAY-COVER.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCQZ1rmdNaghkAWU-wFQmR6GJF3cOlMCWd_oeux-k_Gv16ktJXWyOq2ph0Hrt6airkfCQsAQ1qi2S53UChz-Kw8xVFA8mGAV_iErLd5KlpL9nVh-0tkPpD4QFwN3ynF0I83DHFzAhVbnnj/s640/COLD-DAY-COVER.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<u>About the book</u>:<br />
Holland Delviss wants to be known for her talent as a hockey player, not a hockey player who happens to be a girl. But when her school team is selected to be featured and televised as part of HockeyFest, her status as the only girl on the boys’ team makes her the lead story. Not everyone is thrilled with Holland’s new fame, but there’s one person who fiercely supports her, and it’s the last person she expects (and definitely the last person she should be falling for): her bossy team captain, Wes.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Add it to your <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/36527691-cold-day-in-the-sun">goodreads</a> || Pre-order from <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Cold-Day-Sun-Sara-Biren/dp/1419733672/">Amazon</a>, <a href="https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/cold-day-in-the-sun-sara-biren/1129230250?ean=9781419733673">B&N</a>, <a href="https://www.indiebound.org/book/9781419733673">IndieBound</a>, <a href="https://www.bookdepository.com/Cold-Day-in-the-Sun-Sara-Biren/9781419733673">Book Depository</a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYhxK9GHrVwFqAzawqYYnXsPLDhbXTygB2LyM4CjIHu7lhHAqly4KWgNviDRLYCuHbvnSO0OKlEGdFWjPcLu7JzzWIF0Zc7iY89uP2PMWwAAZZrus864mgePFaF7-xrHnI0pjNNvxC2iRK/s1600/q+%2526+a+%25281%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="563" data-original-width="1600" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYhxK9GHrVwFqAzawqYYnXsPLDhbXTygB2LyM4CjIHu7lhHAqly4KWgNviDRLYCuHbvnSO0OKlEGdFWjPcLu7JzzWIF0Zc7iY89uP2PMWwAAZZrus864mgePFaF7-xrHnI0pjNNvxC2iRK/s640/q+%2526+a+%25281%2529.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
Author Sara Biren is here to answer a few questions about the novel and her writing (fun fact: Sara and I are both Foo Fighter fans!!).<br />
<br />
<b>1. What inspired you to write this book?</b><br />
<br />
COLD DAY began as a very different book, a book inspired by a spring break trip I took to the Florida Keys during college. I had wanted to write something light-hearted and fun after the heaviness of THE LAST THING YOU SAID, but it turned out to be pretty heavy in its own way. That book, working title KEYS, has been completely rewritten (twice) and looks nothing like the original version except for the two main characters. <br />
<br />
The new story was inspired by my love for hockey and my years as the JV hockey team’s manager in high school. This was before the days of girls’ hockey, so managing was the closest I could get to the ice. I loved my time on the bench and made lifelong friends. I also wanted to write a story about a strong, talented girl playing on the boys’ team, the challenges she faces, and her journey to find her place in the world. <br />
<br />
<b>2. Name five things that you love about the book:</b><br />
<br />
• The music: Holland loves grunge and glam metal. I had so much fun putting together the playlists in the book. <br />
• The setting: COLD DAY takes place in Halcyon Lake, the same Minnesota resort town as THE LAST THING YOU SAID. This one is set during the winter, of course – hockey season. <br />
• The title, which came to me in a moment of inspiration during a Foo Fighters concert on August 22, 2015, as Taylor sang “Cold Day in the Sun.” I heard those lyrics and knew. (Yes, I’ve been working on this book a very long time – I think I started it the summer of 2012 or 2013. It’s all a bit of a blur.) Like Holland, I love Dave Grohl and Foo Fighters so much, and, like Holland, Wasting Light is my favorite of their albums. <br />
• Holland’s hockey playing brothers. They give her crap but are always supportive. <br />
• The hockey scenes – the perfect excuse to go to local high school games and watch UMD Bulldogs and NHL games on TV. Our high school team went to the state tournament this year for the first time in school history – very exciting! Go Knights! <br />
<br />
<b>3. Who is your favorite hockey player?</b><br />
<br />
Steve Yzerman of the Detroit Red Wings. I had his rookie card taped up in my locker in junior high. My brother gave me a signed, framed Yzerman jersey for my wedding. <br />
<br />
<b>4. What are you working on now?</b><br />
<br />
My next YA is called IF YOU WERE HERE, my Minnesota autumn story: A rock star's son and the caretaker's daughter, a comeback and a scandal, facing the secrets of the past and learning to live in the present. I’m also working on a side project, an adult romance called I SAW YOU FIRST, which takes place in the mid-90s at an electronics store similar to the Best Buy of old (where I worked for many year). <br />
<br />
<b>5. What are you currently reading?</b><br />
<br />
I’m officially on vacation for a week and a half. We’re headed first to northern Minnesota and then northern Wisconsin for some serious lake time, so I’ll have lots of reading time as well. I’m currently reading STARRY EYES by Jenn Bennett, which will be followed up with THE OTHER SIDE OF LOST by Jessi Kirby, THE KISS QUOTIENT by Helen Hoang, and YOU ARE A BADASS by Jen Sincero. <br />
<br />
<b>6. Five fast facts about you:</b><br />
<br />
Aries, ENFP, Assistant Scoutmaster (Boy Scouts), Troop Leader (Girl Scouts), content & social media manager (day job).<br />
<br />
<u>Where to find Sara Biren</u>:<br />
Website: <a href="http://sarabiren.com/">sarabiren.com</a><br />
Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/sarabiren/">@sarabiren</a><br />
Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/sbiren">@sbiren</a><br />
Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/sbirenauthor/">https://www.facebook.com/sbirenauthor/</a><br />
Newsletter sign-up: <a href="https://www.sarabiren.com/p/contact.html">https://www.sarabiren.com/p/contact.html</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpR2ffkbampMPehzF-FKIQBrUPURYFrh9Qjp71DoCe_P8TCceY8jcDsBZq7lh9eztHrew-_v0QrLcAgEK6VGVRjT-MtonUxQqiQJEVEkHYdHr9ITRYeM91AMCbcMbZOR2V6Og2Chx1nF6e/s1600/giveaway+%25282%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="512" data-original-width="1024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpR2ffkbampMPehzF-FKIQBrUPURYFrh9Qjp71DoCe_P8TCceY8jcDsBZq7lh9eztHrew-_v0QrLcAgEK6VGVRjT-MtonUxQqiQJEVEkHYdHr9ITRYeM91AMCbcMbZOR2V6Og2Chx1nF6e/s640/giveaway+%25282%2529.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
Want to win Sara's debut novel THE LAST THING YOU SAID + a pre-order of COLD DAY IN THE SUN? Well, here's your chance! Enter the rafflecopter below. This contest is open to U.S. residents only. Please see my policies page for further contest rules.<br />
<br />
<a class="rcptr" data-raflid="c6f35a6d84" data-template="" data-theme="classic" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/c6f35a6d84/" id="rcwidget_3509kkgx" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a><br />
<script src="https://widget-prime.rafflecopter.com/launch.js"></script><br />
<br />
<br />
<img align="left" height="96" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYGTxPNVhGVEXLtJzHacqN6v8oqsIngtyuVSFJR2aV3R0YM6Tu4hx6dmu6GNoqfqCCjN9biK7UyY92rU786Gpu0ZFSYs8epPcE4ZaZyQE6fEHKbQsciqf-iZ-20R51tQs3j3eogCpDcJYS/s640/sig2.png" style="border: 0pt none;" width="640" />Ginger @ GReads!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17725314423163879042noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9180446384835146464.post-1610343533166354772018-07-27T10:07:00.000-05:002018-07-27T10:07:08.265-05:00My Summer Reading Pile + a Giveaway!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoq22MZV4ua0wiJgeyU25foLS-P4-BEgQ_pT6s3bQPvo1hRyaT0PfI47MjFJaWyZM1aUI7YKtqOALcfjbGa3PxglK6wJK7hOK7gQp1jU_vsLldR-sK_HB5nS5kdZHX5EJA0sBm0Kj9UhFw/s1600/summer+reads+%25281%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="408" data-original-width="528" height="247" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoq22MZV4ua0wiJgeyU25foLS-P4-BEgQ_pT6s3bQPvo1hRyaT0PfI47MjFJaWyZM1aUI7YKtqOALcfjbGa3PxglK6wJK7hOK7gQp1jU_vsLldR-sK_HB5nS5kdZHX5EJA0sBm0Kj9UhFw/s320/summer+reads+%25281%2529.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Hey friendly readers! Can you believe it's already almost August?! I sure can't! In just a few weeks time I'll be back in the classroom and resuming my regularly scheduled crazy life-style. The days of lounging on the couch, or in the pool, are beginning to fade. But, before they do, I wanted to share some more of what I've been reading this summer... and give away a favorite summer read of mine to a lucky reader!<br />
<br />
First, let's check out what I've been reading:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOyBZXUdvbwCLbVh2l7_4xtWCsBpiyPUoUpFbKFPs292ldRBjgQACH0c43hXrLSjmsZSWq1sZM1QzZvITu-DIZCtbSw3ezimfwMVlTE7JnARZCuAjcdW2cq9IK0ofdbN2g-nEcWGJvcml2/s1600/Screen+Shot+2018-07-27+at+9.25.33+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="345" data-original-width="632" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOyBZXUdvbwCLbVh2l7_4xtWCsBpiyPUoUpFbKFPs292ldRBjgQACH0c43hXrLSjmsZSWq1sZM1QzZvITu-DIZCtbSw3ezimfwMVlTE7JnARZCuAjcdW2cq9IK0ofdbN2g-nEcWGJvcml2/s1600/Screen+Shot+2018-07-27+at+9.25.33+AM.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWD1OUfPyxJWGYUDr1anuVTMbOxMoVtubqlYh2q73atELWAQ0DzWyrnmzLkHDr9oE_yARjQkf8i5wdoW_WHBYdeXGlGEXpv6OINrRIaJO39SBduuzVF8vbwOVkk_oqvXyiKiMgYixp-AUU/s1600/Screen+Shot+2018-07-27+at+9.25.12+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="534" data-original-width="631" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWD1OUfPyxJWGYUDr1anuVTMbOxMoVtubqlYh2q73atELWAQ0DzWyrnmzLkHDr9oE_yARjQkf8i5wdoW_WHBYdeXGlGEXpv6OINrRIaJO39SBduuzVF8vbwOVkk_oqvXyiKiMgYixp-AUU/s1600/Screen+Shot+2018-07-27+at+9.25.12+AM.png" /></a></div>
<br />
These are all the books I've read this summer. Quite a few were re-reads for me! There are some ARCs mixed in, as well as older romances that I've been wanting to check out. Overall, I'd say it's been an amazing summer of books for me! I'm in the middle of reading two more right now: another historical romance + a YA contemporary, that I hope to add to this list by the end of the weekend.<br />
<br />
A few of my stand out faves from the list above:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1515028176l/36313515.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="300" height="320" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1515028176l/36313515.jpg" width="202" /></a></div>
<b>Wicked and the Wallflower by Sarah MacLean</b><br />
<u>About the book</u>: <i>When Wicked Comes Calling...</i><br />
<i><br />
</i> <i>When a mysterious stranger finds his way into her bedchamber and offers his help in landing a duke, Lady Felicity Faircloth agrees—on one condition. She's seen enough of the world to believe in passion, and won't accept a marriage without it.</i><br />
<i><br />
</i> <i>The Wallflower Makes a Dangerous Bargain...</i><br />
<i><br />
</i> <i>Bastard son of a duke and king of London's dark streets, Devil has spent a lifetime wielding power and seizing opportunity, and the spinster wallflower is everything he needs to exact a revenge years in the making. All he must do is turn the plain little mouse into an irresistible temptress, set his trap, and destroy his enemy.</i><br />
<i><br />
</i> <i>For the Promise of Passion...</i><br />
<i><br />
</i> <i>But there's nothing plain about Felicity Faircloth, who quickly decides she'd rather have Devil than another. Soon, Devil's carefully laid plans are in chaos, and he must choose between everything he's ever wanted...and the only thing he's ever desired.</i><br />
<br />
**<br />
<br />
This is easily one of my favorite reads of the YEAR, y'all! I cannot shout my love for this book any louder (ok, maybe I can and I will! ha). Even if historicals aren't your thing, the love story of this novel is so so gripping. It possesses the type of characters who feel like actual people to you. I am STILL thinking about them, all these weeks later. I already know I'll be rereading it at summer's end because I just can't quite say goodbye yet. Best part: it's the first book in a new series from Sarah MacLean!!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1526999838l/40193043.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="316" height="320" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1526999838l/40193043.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
<b>A Totally Awkward Love Story by Tom Ellen and Lucy Ivison</b><br />
<u>About the book</u>: <i>The summer before college, Hannah swears she’s finally going to find The One. And for five perfect minutes, Hannah does find him. He’s cute and makes her laugh like crazy. She just wishes she’d caught his name, because Toilet Boy Cinderella really lacks sex appeal.</i><br />
<i><br />
</i> <i>For Sam, the summer is off to a bad start for a million reasons. But for five minutes his luck changes: in a fancy restroom painted purple like it belongs in a Bond villain hideaway, Sam falls head over heels for some strange and hilarious girl. Of course, he doesn’t know her name. With his luck, he’ll never see her again, and he’ll remain a girlfriendless, moony-eyed virgin. Forever. </i><br />
<i><br />
</i> <i>But another chance meeting brings them together, only to have a chance misunderstanding drive them apart . . . and then the cycle starts all over again. Madcap mishaps, raunchy hilarity, and deep romance follow these two wherever they go. For two people so clearly destined for each other, they sure have a hell of a lot of trouble even getting together.</i><br />
<i><br />
</i> **<br />
<br />
This is an oldie that is definitely new to me. It's been awhile since I've read a book where I am literally laughing out loud and having such JOY reading it. The humor of this book is all my style. These authors know how to write dialogue, and damn is it funny as all get out. I loved the realism of this particular story, too. For anyone who has ever been an awkward teen and trying to find their lobster, you will totally relate to this one! I read their next book <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/28936274-freshers">FRESHERS</a> immediately after because I couldn't get enough of their voices. That book was equally just as grand.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><u>Some other faves worth pointing out</u>: </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/32333296-stay-sweet">STAY SWEET</a> by Siobhan Vivian</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/39944217-josh-and-hazel-s-guide-to-not-dating">JOSH & HAZEL'S GUIDE TO NOT DATING</a> by Christina Lauren</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">(check back for my detailed review of this later in August)</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/36500151-i-think-i-love-you">I THINK I LOVE YOU</a> by Lauren Layne</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/15832932-what-i-thought-was-true">WHAT I THOUGHT WAS TRUE</a> by Huntley Fitzpatrick</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">(my 3rd time to read it & I still love it so much!)</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">***</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Want to read one of these books from my pile? I'm giving away a copy to one lucky reader (must live in the U.S. & be 18 years of age). Please fill out the rafflecopter below to be entered. Good luck!!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<br />
<a class="rcptr" data-raflid="c6f35a6d83" data-template="" data-theme="classic" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/c6f35a6d83/" id="rcwidget_c08u1kmb" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a><br />
<script src="https://widget-prime.rafflecopter.com/launch.js"></script><br />
<br />
<img align="left" height="96" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYGTxPNVhGVEXLtJzHacqN6v8oqsIngtyuVSFJR2aV3R0YM6Tu4hx6dmu6GNoqfqCCjN9biK7UyY92rU786Gpu0ZFSYs8epPcE4ZaZyQE6fEHKbQsciqf-iZ-20R51tQs3j3eogCpDcJYS/s640/sig2.png" style="border: 0pt none;" width="640" />Ginger @ GReads!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17725314423163879042noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9180446384835146464.post-66443173150357484422018-06-25T00:00:00.000-05:002018-06-25T00:00:00.927-05:00Hi, it's me.<br />
Hello there.<br />
<br />
If you saw my previous blog post, I had mentioned going silent for a bit here. I also mentioned that I'd come back when I felt like blogging again. I'm still not 100% certain on how often that will be, but... I'm here now, blogging, because I felt up to it again.<br />
<br />
So, hello there.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXbTL50EUDQhNsNddxRkqkC-Z1nZhyALYx-cthu1Ofkyg73s6pE2V2ILR4-AgB9qSMUtpCw-wHaYViMBe3_popbwxvBs8tZInTBlpUTpFyn-tP_gzowgoqOo3yWlG9v1PP27fZT5enRd16/s1600/reading.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="90" data-original-width="728" height="78" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXbTL50EUDQhNsNddxRkqkC-Z1nZhyALYx-cthu1Ofkyg73s6pE2V2ILR4-AgB9qSMUtpCw-wHaYViMBe3_popbwxvBs8tZInTBlpUTpFyn-tP_gzowgoqOo3yWlG9v1PP27fZT5enRd16/s640/reading.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
What have you been reading? Any new books you've discovered that have completely consumed you? I love when books do that. Even though I haven't been in the mood to properly review any books I've read recently, I've still had the urge to keep reading. In fact I've sort of dubbed this summer as my unofficial Summer of Re-Reads.<br />
<br />
It started with <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/26211610-summer-skin">SUMMER SKIN</a> by Kirsty Eagar. Y'all, this Aussie author is phenomenal! If you're a regular at my blog, then you already know my love for her writing. Since Summer Skin just published here in North America, I thought it was only fitting to celebrate that with a re-read. Next up was a visit with an old love, <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/9403947-something-like-normal">SOMETHING LIKE NORMAL</a> by Trish Doller. Trish is a great friend of mine (in fact, we share a love for Kirsty Eagar's writing, among many other loves, ha!) -- reading her stories bring me calm, something I can rely on when I am searching for something I know I'll need. With all the publication hype, I had to do a re-read of <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/36199084-the-kiss-quotient">THE KISS QUOTIENT</a> by Helen Hoang. I read an ARC of this one back in January and loved it immediately. The second time around? I loved it even more. If you've been seeing all the great things being said about this one, they're true! It's amazing. My latest re-read goes to <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/15832932-what-i-thought-was-true">WHAT I THOUGHT WAS TRUE</a> by Huntley Fitzpatrick. This has become a summer tradition for me. Y'all, this novel is everything a summer YA contemp should be. Each time I read this story I find something new to fall in love with. It's the perfect escape I needed.<br />
<br />
I've been reading some new stuff, too. A few of those that deserve shout outs are: <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/32333338-save-the-date">SAVE THE DATE </a>by Morgan Matson, <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/series/146342-wild-aces">WILD ACES</a> series by Chanel Cleeton, and <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/37584991-the-proposal">THE PROPOSAL</a> by Jasmine Guillory. On my shelf to read very, very soon are: <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/32333296-stay-sweet">STAY SWEET</a> by Siobhan Vivian, <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/34092885-always-never-yours">ALWAYS NEVER YOURS</a> by Emily Wibberley & Austin Siegemund-Broka, and <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/35795940-not-the-girls-you-re-looking-for">NOT THE GIRLS YOU'RE LOOKING FOR</a> by Aminah Mae Safi. I've got my eye on some upcoming releases, too: <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/39944217-josh-and-hazel-s-guide-to-not-dating">JOSH & HAZEL'S GUIDE TO NOT DATING</a> by Christina Lauren, <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/36579299-fight-or-flight">FIGHT OR FLIGHT</a> by Samantha Young, and <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/38355173-the-geography-of-lost-things">THE GEOGRAPHY OF LOST THINGS</a> by Jessica Brody.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUPrPa7kYylUhyo8NtzGL2gldPLAUtkztrOwTBw8UorKZ4weFQsWeyTbgnv9k6XNKWjCvBb-hXY3mbEm6k8xngtLhZGKoG4LW9hZCbgmp0l8-N4iP3tyCZPrvG0fFSmbwxc1TUjXdx1bzp/s1600/watching.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="90" data-original-width="728" height="78" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUPrPa7kYylUhyo8NtzGL2gldPLAUtkztrOwTBw8UorKZ4weFQsWeyTbgnv9k6XNKWjCvBb-hXY3mbEm6k8xngtLhZGKoG4LW9hZCbgmp0l8-N4iP3tyCZPrvG0fFSmbwxc1TUjXdx1bzp/s640/watching.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Books aren't the only thing that's been occupying my time now that summer has officially began. I've been watching TV, too! For the past few years, TV has dropped to the wayside. Since Friday Night Lights and Parenthood, I haven't found anything that I felt was worth sitting down and making a point to watch (except for that whole Game of Thrones binge watch I did last summer). But then, I discovered <a href="https://www.nbc.com/superstore">Superstore</a>. Never has a TV show come into my life at just the right time. I started watching past episodes on Hulu back in April. The day I had to put my sweet Daisy down, I found myself in a numb blur of motions. My heart ached and I just felt... empty. I didn't want to go anywhere, or really talk to anyone. Forget trying to read something. So I turned my TV on and started watching Superstore. There was just enough in the storyline to pull me in, but not completely consume me. It was exactly what my mind needed. As the weeks went by, and I started to settle into my grief more, I continued watching it season by season. I think this is one of the funniest shows I've ever seen, to be honest. The humor speaks right to me. Though I discovered it during a very difficult time in my life, it became an escape that I leaned on and then grew to love. Regardless of where you are in life, it's still a great show and worth watching.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoMLtQ0ObS2QOhDzp_s7lFibliCa2gmQC-E44iB8eIdo29wV8rkrbHJf-gmIp7Cjo-lca7RuGbRbsVXBbGO0T0VonmaMh02Nt6MNbphzlsSqTfLBC7UTMJvEReYLYK2B4_WiqV9L0QKbcc/s1600/doing.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="90" data-original-width="728" height="78" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoMLtQ0ObS2QOhDzp_s7lFibliCa2gmQC-E44iB8eIdo29wV8rkrbHJf-gmIp7Cjo-lca7RuGbRbsVXBbGO0T0VonmaMh02Nt6MNbphzlsSqTfLBC7UTMJvEReYLYK2B4_WiqV9L0QKbcc/s640/doing.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Now that it's officially summer, I am home for the season. It's my time to refresh and relax before another school year begins in August. I just got back from my family vacation to Colorado. We went back to the same mountain resort in the Rocky Mountains that my family visited almost 30 years ago, when I was a little child. It was amazing to experience it again. So much had changed, yet so much felt familiar, too. I hadn't appreciated the scenery at 6 years old, as I do now at 36 years old. Those mountains! It is breathtaking. To say I had a nice time is an understatement. It was a vacation I know I'll hold in my memories for years to come.<br />
<br />
So what's next? Well, in a few weeks I'll be turning 37. I've got another vacation planned to visit my best friends in Chicago, too. I know the summer will be over in a blink and I'll be back in the classroom before I know it. I'm trying to slow myself down and relax for now. It's hard not having Daisy here, though. I still find myself wanting to walk her, look for her, pet her. Those are habits that will take some time to ease.<br />
<br />
Tell me -- what are you reading? watching? any summer plans? Even though this blog is not what I had planned, it's still here, and I'm still giving it my voice. I hope you'll stick around and listen.<br />
<br />
<br />
<img align="left" height="96" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYGTxPNVhGVEXLtJzHacqN6v8oqsIngtyuVSFJR2aV3R0YM6Tu4hx6dmu6GNoqfqCCjN9biK7UyY92rU786Gpu0ZFSYs8epPcE4ZaZyQE6fEHKbQsciqf-iZ-20R51tQs3j3eogCpDcJYS/s640/sig2.png" style="border: 0pt none;" width="640" />Ginger @ GReads!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17725314423163879042noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9180446384835146464.post-26751507246685136472018-05-28T08:36:00.000-05:002018-05-28T08:36:43.544-05:00Where I've Been... & What's To Come<br />
Hey friends... I've been a bit quiet on the blog lately and wanted to update my readers as to why. Those of you who follow me on social media may have already received this update, but for those who just follow this blog I have some sad news to share.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgozw9OE8VDSw8-zdxOY46f16xLEqOkoaa54pllcvgngDY9klX6Z9rfzNYVXTdAL5nKOoVca_UIU10SMoHBA5r9mwHvNh0xjIRgOlpavApSlJooBuLTiUf9mOEsKNAnOELi6tMHv9p4zhXu/s1600/IMG_1335.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgozw9OE8VDSw8-zdxOY46f16xLEqOkoaa54pllcvgngDY9klX6Z9rfzNYVXTdAL5nKOoVca_UIU10SMoHBA5r9mwHvNh0xjIRgOlpavApSlJooBuLTiUf9mOEsKNAnOELi6tMHv9p4zhXu/s200/IMG_1335.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhUnQIX68KpFmxCdXJteFSTO2t7PTRawbMLacnlj1Wpzu7UYGjpJ3CTdOP5kKp-VQX4GZAqaEGoOtYrm0PdrY6rSsqHTH0xbA5D-j7LEfLAa9b3CkGiJjJyQxHIgL_Hkc0eqo2BP8yQjAj/s1600/IMG_8625.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="444" data-original-width="640" height="138" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhUnQIX68KpFmxCdXJteFSTO2t7PTRawbMLacnlj1Wpzu7UYGjpJ3CTdOP5kKp-VQX4GZAqaEGoOtYrm0PdrY6rSsqHTH0xbA5D-j7LEfLAa9b3CkGiJjJyQxHIgL_Hkc0eqo2BP8yQjAj/s200/IMG_8625.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
My sweet Daisy, who I adopted into my life over 14 years ago, has passed away. It was a very difficult decision to make as her fur-mama, one I know deep down was the right decision to make, but still so incredibly hard. She was 15 years old, and for a dog that's definitely a long life. I found out she was very sick and there wasn't much to do.<br />
<br />
I told Daisy I loved her as much as I could. I held her in my arms the entire time. It was brutal on my heart, but the passing was peaceful. I lost a piece of myself that morning. There's a sadness that will forever be inside my heart. She was my companion for 14+ years. She was part of my every day routine for 14+ years. She came into my life just months after I lost my mom, and ever since then she had been the one taking care of me. It was now my turn to take care of her.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV5Z8ws_85pOTK7O0qT2cpOCeQl6NVzLHa6erz4cesP5BwVkEeZBE2FlJLUrNA-AWQJkEyCjbvl54aCkh1nmqZ8bpy9iSyaXroUhtRuVtyR3ocd2ZKczcQDBeysWKKMoeFdLLZBDpkf_Xp/s1600/IMG_3314.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV5Z8ws_85pOTK7O0qT2cpOCeQl6NVzLHa6erz4cesP5BwVkEeZBE2FlJLUrNA-AWQJkEyCjbvl54aCkh1nmqZ8bpy9iSyaXroUhtRuVtyR3ocd2ZKczcQDBeysWKKMoeFdLLZBDpkf_Xp/s200/IMG_3314.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6tvcfF5_TN992OZQORBRgj_ODF4mBanHnurywTzz1cr0RIQqRgjZufo7HohCu7xSEuQawmxUKWkYSVs-msA1Bxm1ms62e-Frls6gSLkvgeFYTDsX17bnBcqfTOv7-Ae3WTasJLpvl6aO-/s1600/IMG_3316.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6tvcfF5_TN992OZQORBRgj_ODF4mBanHnurywTzz1cr0RIQqRgjZufo7HohCu7xSEuQawmxUKWkYSVs-msA1Bxm1ms62e-Frls6gSLkvgeFYTDsX17bnBcqfTOv7-Ae3WTasJLpvl6aO-/s200/IMG_3316.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
Yes I'm sad. Yes I'm heartbroken. I wasn't expecting the magnitude of this grief until it hit me shortly after. Is it getting easier? It's becoming more manageable, yes. I haven't been able to remove her leash from the hook beside my garage door. I still expect to hear her, see her, feel her as I walk around my home. Losing Daisy is like losing a piece of myself. It will never be found.<br />
<br />
So, with that being said, my focus on things has definitely shifted. I had all these plans to kick off another year of Sweet Summertime Reads and every time I sat down to write a blog post for it, my heart just wasn't in it. I am not giving up on this blog, but my previous plans for it are changing. The school year is winding down this week and with it comes a lot more free time for me this summer. Perhaps I'll get back my want to blog and posts some new things here.<br />
<br />
Until then, you can always find me on social media:<br />
<br />
Twitter - <a href="https://twitter.com/GReadsBooks">@GReadsBooks</a><br />
Instagram - <a href="https://www.instagram.com/greadsbooks/">@greadsbooks</a><br />
<br />
I hope you're all taking care of yourself. If anything, I've learned through this grieving process is that there is no end date. We all go through it at our own pace, at our own time, and it never truly ends. I'm thankful for the love I've received from this book community. Your support has meant so much to me. I'm still here, and I'm still reading. Always feel free to recommend me books whenever you want! I promise to be back here at my blog when my heart feels up to it again.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE9l2YUwmhi6Fe9VSnq8Es-rfJAmqcXXsNCKKp_IsufMdTl4RxEurseQf1rxbYd0y0u1YFeYcfjR_t0BOqSDs-stlN3rVeJqFAq2E5LPx7V-zUmAN_DPb5AJDlPflT-YAJh7BDQimeqsNC/s1600/IMG_3315.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE9l2YUwmhi6Fe9VSnq8Es-rfJAmqcXXsNCKKp_IsufMdTl4RxEurseQf1rxbYd0y0u1YFeYcfjR_t0BOqSDs-stlN3rVeJqFAq2E5LPx7V-zUmAN_DPb5AJDlPflT-YAJh7BDQimeqsNC/s200/IMG_3315.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<img align="left" height="96" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYGTxPNVhGVEXLtJzHacqN6v8oqsIngtyuVSFJR2aV3R0YM6Tu4hx6dmu6GNoqfqCCjN9biK7UyY92rU786Gpu0ZFSYs8epPcE4ZaZyQE6fEHKbQsciqf-iZ-20R51tQs3j3eogCpDcJYS/s640/sig2.png" style="border: 0pt none;" width="640" />Ginger @ GReads!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17725314423163879042noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9180446384835146464.post-38864347389002040042018-04-16T00:00:00.000-05:002018-04-16T00:00:00.211-05:00Coming Soon: Sweet Summertime Reads 2018<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIQ0jWOtkhlk22Ejpu62eLF2ld4yqM9nnkVwnGSlmIpjpyH0Aa_Kj8x3hSRuxleM03aB6ttpMFdV8aCjulU8VrfMP8it3REwen_qzUZocrbMfk4JaMQlMfr4CXPN9Zsl5dirg1njpDLWAJ/s1600/SWEET+SUMMERTIME+READS+2018+-+graphic+1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="530" data-original-width="530" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIQ0jWOtkhlk22Ejpu62eLF2ld4yqM9nnkVwnGSlmIpjpyH0Aa_Kj8x3hSRuxleM03aB6ttpMFdV8aCjulU8VrfMP8it3REwen_qzUZocrbMfk4JaMQlMfr4CXPN9Zsl5dirg1njpDLWAJ/s400/SWEET+SUMMERTIME+READS+2018+-+graphic+1.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Hey friends! Can you believe it's already almost summer again?! If you're a regular at my blog, then you already know this is total Ginger season. I live for these months... those lazy days spent in the pool, endless nights on the patio, and every second in between reading irresistible summer reads.<br />
<br />
This is my 7th year hosting #SweetSummertimeReads on my blog, a feature that I look forward to every year. It's a place for me to showcase my favorite books to read during the summer and incorporate all things summery. I hope you'll join me this year for all new content!<br />
<br />
And what might that content be?! I'm meshing two of my most favorite things: Summer + Romance! I decided to dedicate this entire season to romance reads!! How fun is that?! Now, I know that might not be everyone's jam. But... romance comes in so many different flavors. I hope to deliver on all our various tastes. It's going to be great & I cannot wait!<br />
<br />
In the meantime, let's get through this endless winter (in some parts of our country) together and head right into summertime bliss. So tell me, what are some of your all-time favorite romances? I'm going to offer a giveaway to get this party started! This contest is open to my international friends (just make sure Book Depository ships to you). All you have to do is leave a comment below, fill out the rafflecopter, and you're entered! Good luck... and happy *almost* summer!!!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglZzX9dduKu3j6CAk-RC9Hd6YNwZrK7pLjKkoji0lR-5f-cqQhqfWUjcn3hmlBn_3zkWI-SgGKb4PYeJWikqjx9aGLIlG2ajlZTyfuoAJniU_zkPC2btvTaxAt5vkfM0y_kT8KLV9ShJDJ/s1600/Romance+Read+Giveaway.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="200" data-original-width="600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglZzX9dduKu3j6CAk-RC9Hd6YNwZrK7pLjKkoji0lR-5f-cqQhqfWUjcn3hmlBn_3zkWI-SgGKb4PYeJWikqjx9aGLIlG2ajlZTyfuoAJniU_zkPC2btvTaxAt5vkfM0y_kT8KLV9ShJDJ/s1600/Romance+Read+Giveaway.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<a class="rcptr" data-raflid="c6f35a6d82" data-template="" data-theme="classic" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/c6f35a6d82/" id="rcwidget_u8viffz7" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a><br />
<script src="https://widget-prime.rafflecopter.com/launch.js"></script><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
+ Giveaway open internationally (Book Depository only!)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
+ No giveaway accounts allowed</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
+ Must leave a blog comment to be entered</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
+ Please be 18 years of age or older</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<img align="left" height="96" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYGTxPNVhGVEXLtJzHacqN6v8oqsIngtyuVSFJR2aV3R0YM6Tu4hx6dmu6GNoqfqCCjN9biK7UyY92rU786Gpu0ZFSYs8epPcE4ZaZyQE6fEHKbQsciqf-iZ-20R51tQs3j3eogCpDcJYS/s640/sig2.png" style="border: 0pt none;" width="640" />Ginger @ GReads!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17725314423163879042noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9180446384835146464.post-28002999900133759592018-04-02T00:00:00.000-05:002018-04-02T00:00:31.729-05:00Reading Round-Up: Winter/Spring 2018<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi27wbza5GLEIz1kMb1-Osjq4OVAPA3le_HiQ5KVXxYfr7gjcOjbwLVcPmOWXiLhc0cLRfDRKaAQGtPyzyo59IDz-N95YcS5iFmOlDaCpBqCPxficc9hIPHR5FJNaK1aAXnuCsjOoH6wywT/s1600/Reading+roundup+w%25252Fs+2018.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="200" data-original-width="600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi27wbza5GLEIz1kMb1-Osjq4OVAPA3le_HiQ5KVXxYfr7gjcOjbwLVcPmOWXiLhc0cLRfDRKaAQGtPyzyo59IDz-N95YcS5iFmOlDaCpBqCPxficc9hIPHR5FJNaK1aAXnuCsjOoH6wywT/s1600/Reading+roundup+w%25252Fs+2018.png" /></a></div>
<br />
Can you believe it's already April?! Where has 2018 gone to?? I can't say I'm bummed that it's going this fast though. After all, my most favorite season of the year is coming very, very soon: SUMMER! I'm already thinking up fresh ideas for this year's #SweetSummertimeReads feature (stayed tuned for that!!), as well as counting down the days until summer break at work/school.<br />
<br />
With that being said, how is everyone's reading year so far? Discovered any gems? Came across some duds? I know I have. I'm off to a good start with my challenge; currently have read 20 books (I challenged myself to read 50 this year).<br />
<br />
Today's post is highlighting some of those 20 books I've read. Consider them mini reviews packed into one blog post. I love recommending what I read (as most of you see through my social media accounts), but thought it would be helpful to have one place to refer back to. So be on the look out for more posts such as this one in the future.<br />
<br />
Now, on to my current reading round-up for what I've devoured this past winter and beginning of spring...<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhjHxjY0XNKEQdkwbGQXiSnPt9P1-Ad1ENL1fwU-4Qm-P0RfHkqdqVl4of2NvhmyJYu2AOQWtkANUCqYStzHZA7KxWefyCGF6XTgOR501pNPmQ-M1_erNOkeTGk39A8CelET-6MVrAHMAb/s1600/YA+readingroundup.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="200" data-original-width="600" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhjHxjY0XNKEQdkwbGQXiSnPt9P1-Ad1ENL1fwU-4Qm-P0RfHkqdqVl4of2NvhmyJYu2AOQWtkANUCqYStzHZA7KxWefyCGF6XTgOR501pNPmQ-M1_erNOkeTGk39A8CelET-6MVrAHMAb/s400/YA+readingroundup.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1505855827l/35704397.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="317" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1505855827l/35704397.jpg" width="133" /></a><a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1508174072l/35068736.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="314" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1508174072l/35068736.jpg" width="131" /></a><a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1506961175l/28269171.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="315" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1506961175l/28269171.jpg" width="132" /></a><a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1497542946l/35297469.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="314" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1497542946l/35297469.jpg" width="131" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/35068736-9-days-and-9-nights">9 Days & 9 Nights by Katie Cotugno</a> || <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/28269171-puddin">Puddin' by Julie Murphy</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/35297469-starry-eyes">Starry Eyes by Jenn Bennett</a> || <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/35704397-the-way-you-make-me-feel">The Way You Make Me Feel by Maurene Goo</a></div>
<br />
Each one of these 2018 releases are coming from authors that I've read their previous work and loved, so their next books automatically go on my to-be-read lists. When I received advanced reader copies for each of these, you could say I was jumping with joy and performing my own little excitement dance. I wasted no time sitting down and reading them.<br />
<br />
Both <i>9 Days & 9 Nights</i> and <i>Puddin'</i> are set in literary worlds that I was already familiar with. I was eager to get my hands on their follow-up/companion novels. Dare I say I want even more set in these worlds?? Cotugno and Murphy know what my heart wants when it comes to contemporary YA. They get it so right with each novel they write. From the laugh out loud moments, to the heartfelt gut-wrenching emotional scenes. Their stories always please me and take me to such a personal reading experience.<br />
<br />
Jenn Bennett and Maurene Goo are both new-to-me-authors from last year. I loved their previous work, so naturally I couldn't wait for their next. And dare I say these 2018 titles are just as good, maybe even better?? If they aren't on your release radar for 2018 yet, I hope they are now.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1442247987l/25486998.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="317" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1442247987l/25486998.jpg" width="133" /></a><a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1413009102l/23354047.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="317" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1413009102l/23354047.jpg" width="133" /></a><a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1459881973l/29074768.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="317" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1459881973l/29074768.jpg" width="133" /></a><a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1402915678l/19547856.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="316" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1402915678l/19547856.jpg" width="132" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23354047-trouble-is-a-friend-of-mine">Trouble is a Friend of Mine by Stephanie Tromly</a> || <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/29074768-if-i-fix-you">If I Fix You by Abigail Johnson</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/19547856-simon-vs-the-homo-sapiens-agenda">Simon Vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda by Becky Albertalli</a> || <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25486998-p-s-i-like-you">P.S. I Like You by Kasie West</a></div>
<br />
These four YA novels are books that have been sitting on my shelf for far too long and I'm kicking myself for just now reading them. I'm a huge fan of contemporary novels (obviously) and each one of these holds a unique, emotional, entertaining story inside.<br />
<br />
Stephanie Tromly's voice is such a refreshing take on snarky YA. This "Veronica Mars" like storyline, but the roles are reversed, was so much fun to read. I'm patiently waiting for book three in the series to come out later this month so I'll find out how the whole story ends. Eep! <a href="http://www.greadsbooks.com/2018/03/suchagingerread-if-i-fix-you-by-abigail.html">I gushed about Abigail Johnson here,</a> but I have no shame in sharing more love for this novel again because it captured my heart that much.<br />
<br />
Simon. Oh, Simon. I am extremely late to this party, but SO glad I finally showed up. I get all the hype now. I totally, completely, 100% understand why so many adore this novel. It's perfect in every way possible. Later on, I'll be sharing my in detail thoughts on P.S. I Like You by Kasie West novel over at <a href="https://andiabcs.com/">Andi's blog</a>, but in the meantime just know that this is a backlist title that I feel everyone should make a front list right now!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrVFgUd3WbIfngE3bydoXFP_9k1pY1zzOPTjuvruO9dUbcMSNk8VMC5oxlAtTd0d61h91ogBLHXdFB6_aKZlxEarquju5sPcdrMx5GQnYjH6q3PgyiLplQdWJVziNm3eQXInh7wq88GyPc/s1600/adult+rom+readingru.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="200" data-original-width="600" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrVFgUd3WbIfngE3bydoXFP_9k1pY1zzOPTjuvruO9dUbcMSNk8VMC5oxlAtTd0d61h91ogBLHXdFB6_aKZlxEarquju5sPcdrMx5GQnYjH6q3PgyiLplQdWJVziNm3eQXInh7wq88GyPc/s400/adult+rom+readingru.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1479754001l/29422692.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="295" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1479754001l/29422692.jpg" width="123" /></a><a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1512080903l/36199084.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="317" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1512080903l/36199084.jpg" width="133" /></a><a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1509919295l/35180949.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="300" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1509919295l/35180949.jpg" width="126" /></a><a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1516744572l/35053870.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="317" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1516744572l/35053870.jpg" width="133" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/36199084-the-kiss-quotient">The Kiss Quotient by Helen Hoang</a> || <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/35180949-the-prince">The Prince by Katharine Ashe</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/35053870-brooklynaire">Brooklynaire by Sarina Bowen</a> || <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/29422692-hate-to-want-you">Hate to Want You by Alisha Rai</a></div>
<br />
I've read a lot of great contemporary YAs this year, but there's something to be said about the Adult Romances I've read, too. These four stand out to be some of the best adult romances I've read in quite awhile.<br />
<br />
<i>The Kiss Quotient</i> debuts early this summer, but as soon as Berkeley Romance sent an advanced reader copy my way, I knew I had to read it. And read it, I did! In just 24 hours! I'm a sucker for romances that center around "fake" relationships because you just KNOW it's going to simmer into something so much more. This is a novel I've already been recommending to my friends who enjoyed <i>The Hating Game</i> and <i>The Wedding Date</i>, or anything by Christina Lauren. Be sure to add this one to your to-be-read list, too.<br />
<br />
I know I can always count on my friend <a href="http://www.angie-ville.com/">Angie</a> to recommend an amazing romance when I feel a craving for something irresistible. Both <i>The Prince</i> and <i>Brooklynaire</i> came as Angie recommendations, and just as she predicted, I loved them both SO much! Though one is a historical romance and the other a contemporary romance, I still found myself completely wrapped up in the chemistry. I love a slow burn and both of these delivered on such different, yet satisfying, levels.<br />
<br />
I'm another reader that's late to the Alisha Rai party, but man, I am so glad to finally be here. I'm currently reading the second novel in this series and since the third just came out, I have a feeling that one will be read here shortly. This romance series reminds me a lot of the Travis series by Lisa Kleypas. Though the storylines are different, there's still a rich history in family bonds that have been broken, all while forbidden romances bloom when least expected. I can't get enough of this world!<br />
<br />
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
See something above that peeks your reader interest?<br />Tell me about it in the comments!<br />There's nothing more that I love than talking books with my bookish friends.<br />Read any of these? Share your feedback with me on them, too.<br />What have you read so far this year?<br />I'm always looking for reader recommendations, too.</h4>
<br />
<img align="left" height="96" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYGTxPNVhGVEXLtJzHacqN6v8oqsIngtyuVSFJR2aV3R0YM6Tu4hx6dmu6GNoqfqCCjN9biK7UyY92rU786Gpu0ZFSYs8epPcE4ZaZyQE6fEHKbQsciqf-iZ-20R51tQs3j3eogCpDcJYS/s640/sig2.png" style="border: 0pt none;" width="640" />Ginger @ GReads!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17725314423163879042noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9180446384835146464.post-11542495250410526842018-03-19T00:00:00.000-05:002018-03-19T00:00:18.968-05:00#SuchAGingerRead: If I Fix You by Abigail Johnson<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS734IE3YWK2cC4S4Jac8HEugzWk4KJQZDeI0NGtbXjaueJmSa1v-QntzzX0M_HSQKk532N99Kd6-kwbDyQQ3pq4fF_xL-9zhTxKpf4FZHOhfd21SmT5ABQmy6ysx_aJTmpHbzFJ5m2Dz5/s1600/%2523SuchAGingerRead+2018.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="264" data-original-width="551" height="305" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS734IE3YWK2cC4S4Jac8HEugzWk4KJQZDeI0NGtbXjaueJmSa1v-QntzzX0M_HSQKk532N99Kd6-kwbDyQQ3pq4fF_xL-9zhTxKpf4FZHOhfd21SmT5ABQmy6ysx_aJTmpHbzFJ5m2Dz5/s640/%2523SuchAGingerRead+2018.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Howdy, friends! Last year I started a series on the blog titled "Such a Ginger Read" that highlights books I read that are definitely a me kind of book. Now, for those who don't know me, you may be wondering: What exactly IS a Ginger Read? There are lots of different ingredients to this type of story, but if it's got any of these: romance, emotional depth, set during the summer (bonus!), and/or a contemporary storyline, then you can definitely call it #SuchAGingerRead!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1459881973l/29074768.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="317" height="320" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1459881973l/29074768.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<blockquote>
<b>If I Fix You by Abigail Johnson</b><br />
<b>Published: </b>October 25, 2016 by Harlequin Teen<br />
<b>About the book: </b>Readers of Sarah Dessen, Cammie McGovern and Morgan Matson will adore this thought-provoking, complex and romantic contemporary novel from debut author Abigail Johnson, about finding the strength to put yourself back together when everything you know has fallen apart.<br />
<br />
When sixteen-year-old Jill Whitaker’s mom walks out—with a sticky note as a goodbye—only Jill knows the real reason she’s gone. But how can she tell her father? Jill can hardly believe the truth herself.<br />
<br />
Suddenly, the girl who likes to fix things—cars, relationships, romances, people—is all broken up. Used to be, her best friend, tall, blond and hot flirt Sean Addison, could make her smile in seconds. But not anymore. They don’t even talk.<br />
<br />
With nothing making sense, Jill tries to pick up the pieces of her life. But when a new guy moves in next door, intense, seriously cute, but with scars—on the inside and out—that he thinks don’t show, Jill finds herself trying to make things better for Daniel. But over one long, hot Arizona summer, she realizes she can’t fix anyone’s life until she fixes her own. And she knows just where to start . . . <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/29074768-if-i-fix-you">[goodreads]</a></blockquote>
<br />
This book came highly recommended to me by a trusted friend, so I already had high hopes going into. It's a scary thing though when your expectations are way up there, and you're wondering if the book can actually pull it off.<br />
<br />
This book can. And it did.<br />
<br />
When you look at the overall storyline on paper, there is A LOT of drama here. And I mean, a whole lot of angsty-drama. Usually that would steer me away. However, this goes to show what a brilliant writer Abigail Johnson is because she was able to weave me through the drama and connect all the dots, at just the right moments.<br />
<br />
I felt truly connected to Jill and this fateful summer she had to endure. It's rare I see a parent in YA, especially the mother, painted in such a poor light. I was disgusted with her actions, angry with her choices, and finding it so incredibly hard to forgive her -- just as Jill, her daughter, did. That, to me, is excellent writing. I struggled through accepting Jill's relationships with both Sean and Daniel. In the end though, as I saw the whole picture unfolded, as messed up as their relationships were, it totally made sense in my eyes. Sometimes the beauty in a story doesn't present itself until the very end, when it's meant to.<br />
<br />
I am claiming this novel as #SuchAGingerRead for its emotional depth, filled with all its ups and downs as the story takes the reader on a journey through heartache and beauty. It's definitely not an easy read, but its by far a rewarding one. And sometimes, those are the best kind.<br />
<br />
<br />
<img align="left" height="96" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYGTxPNVhGVEXLtJzHacqN6v8oqsIngtyuVSFJR2aV3R0YM6Tu4hx6dmu6GNoqfqCCjN9biK7UyY92rU786Gpu0ZFSYs8epPcE4ZaZyQE6fEHKbQsciqf-iZ-20R51tQs3j3eogCpDcJYS/s640/sig2.png" style="border: 0pt none;" width="640" />Ginger @ GReads!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17725314423163879042noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9180446384835146464.post-37521388569388934262018-03-13T00:00:00.000-05:002018-03-13T00:00:09.191-05:00Happy Release Day: Twelve Steps to Normal by Farrah Penn<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1505671365l/32797614.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="317" height="320" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1505671365l/32797614.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<blockquote>
<span style="font-size: large;">Twelve Steps to Normal by Farrah Penn</span><br />
<b>Published:</b> March 13, 2018 by Little, Brown<br />
<b>About the book:</b><br />
Kira's Twelve Steps To A Normal Life<br />
<br />
1. Accept Grams is gone.<br />
2. Learn to forgive Dad.<br />
3. Steal back ex-boyfriend from best friend...<br />
<br />
And somewhere between 1 and 12, realize that when your parent's an alcoholic, there's no such thing as "normal."<br />
When Kira's father enters rehab, she's forced to leave everything behind--her home, her best friends, her boyfriend...everything she loves. Now her father's sober (again) and Kira is returning home, determined to get her life back to normal...exactly as it was before she was sent away.<br />
<br />
But is that what Kira really wants? <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/32797614-twelve-steps-to-normal">[goodreads]</a></blockquote>
<br />
It's here! I am so happy to be sharing my thoughts on Farrah Penn's debut novel, <i>Twelve Steps to Normal.</i> I've been a champion of her words long before they were set to be published and I am so incredibly proud of the journey she's followed through with. From one Texas book blogger to a (former) Texas book blogger -- Congrats!!<br />
<br />
Kira’s story is one I feel that a lot of teens, unfortunately, can relate to. We see the aftermath of what having an alcoholic parent can do to a teenage girl’s life. The story picks up just after Kira’s dad exits his rehab therapy & attempts to re-enter Kira’s life. From the first chapter, I immediately felt the emotional journey both Kira & her dad would take me on. <br />
<br />
This is so much more than just a story about recovery & the effects alcoholism can have on the people that are touched by it. I see so much potential from this debut novelist that I can't wait to read more from Farrah. From someone who adores contemporary YA just as much as me, she gets this one right. So right.<br />
<br />
<img align="left" height="96" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYGTxPNVhGVEXLtJzHacqN6v8oqsIngtyuVSFJR2aV3R0YM6Tu4hx6dmu6GNoqfqCCjN9biK7UyY92rU786Gpu0ZFSYs8epPcE4ZaZyQE6fEHKbQsciqf-iZ-20R51tQs3j3eogCpDcJYS/s640/sig2.png" style="border: 0pt none;" width="640" />Ginger @ GReads!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17725314423163879042noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9180446384835146464.post-30317790557909973582018-03-05T00:00:00.000-06:002018-03-05T00:00:21.304-06:00Those Books You Just Have to Have<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwAky7rEQaHHtiFJSikEX54hbkwSjYTJRFQYFg5d3XVJe6dBZc7Hee3Sh9JCjQt1UaL0LKYBUiMv30eg-8WUgzRhf6lqTznZAtXPBBlVMpocPKeOBHgVWXQsyWi-3PL-FwsgOtseGBFgQy/s1600/Have+to+Have+Books.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="512" data-original-width="1024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwAky7rEQaHHtiFJSikEX54hbkwSjYTJRFQYFg5d3XVJe6dBZc7Hee3Sh9JCjQt1UaL0LKYBUiMv30eg-8WUgzRhf6lqTznZAtXPBBlVMpocPKeOBHgVWXQsyWi-3PL-FwsgOtseGBFgQy/s640/Have+to+Have+Books.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
No matter how many books sit unread on my shelves, or in my kindle app, there are ALWAYS more books I just have to have. I'm sure any bibliophile can relate. Below are a few of some upcoming spring/summer titles that I have either pre-ordered, or I'm waiting patiently to be approved via Netgalley or Edelweiss. Are any of these on your TBR list?<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1501622137l/35856700.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="314" height="320" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1501622137l/35856700.jpg" width="211" /></a></div>
<blockquote>
<b>Trouble Never Sleeps (Trouble #3) by Stephanie Tromly</b><br />
<b>About the book:</b> Happily Ever After gets a serious makeover in this swoony, non-stop, thrill-ride of a conclusion to the <i>Trouble Is a Friend of Mine</i> trilogy.<br />
<br />
No one makes getting into trouble look as good as Philip Digby—and he looks good doing it. Now that he's back in town, he's plunged Zoe (and their Scooby Gang of wealthy frenemy Sloane, nerd-tastic genius Felix, and aw-shucks-handsome Henry) back into the deep end on the hunt for his kidnapped sister. He's got a lead, but it involves doing a deal with the scion of an alarmingly powerful family, not to mention committing some light treason. Zoe and Digby are officially together now, and she's definitely up for whatever closure this new caper might offer, even though this mystery will come with a twist neither expected.<br />
<br />
With acerbic banter, steamy chemistry, and no small amount of sarcasm, Zoe and Digby are the will-they-or-won't-they, charismatic crime solving couple you've been waiting for. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/35856700-trouble-never-sleeps">[goodreads]</a></blockquote>
Considering I just binge read (& fell in love with) the first two books in this series, I am dying to get my hands on the third, and final, installment in this trilogy. The quick-witted snark, plus action packed storyline, had me reading page to page. I am so eager to find out how it all wraps up! This was an instant pre-order!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1505855827l/35704397.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="317" height="320" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1505855827l/35704397.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<blockquote>
<b>The Way You Make Me Feel by Maurene Goo</b><br />
<b>About the book: </b>From the author of <i>I Believe in a Thing Called Love</i>, a laugh-out-loud story of love, new friendships, and one unique food truck.<br />
<br />
Clara Shin lives for pranks and disruption. When she takes one joke too far, her dad sentences her to a summer working on his food truck, the KoBra, alongside her uptight classmate Rose Carver. Not the carefree summer Clara had imagined. But maybe Rose isn't so bad. Maybe the boy named Hamlet (yes, Hamlet) crushing on her is pretty cute. Maybe Clara actually feels invested in her dad’s business. What if taking this summer seriously means that Clara has to leave her old self behind? <br />
<br />
With Maurene Goo's signature warmth and humor, <i>The Way You Make Me Feel</i> is a relatable story of falling in love and finding yourself in the places you’d never thought to look. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/35704397-the-way-you-make-me-feel">[goodreads]</a></blockquote>
<br />
<br />
Maurene's previous novel, <i>I Believe in a Thing Called Love</i>, had me laughing out loud within the first few chapters. That was a definite sign of a fun book ahead (which it was!). So naturally I am looking forward to more by this author. I love everything about the premise of this new novel. And yes, her titles always make me sing them aloud.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1519633303l/36206591.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="315" height="320" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1519633303l/36206591.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
<blockquote>
<b>Love and Other Words by Christina Lauren</b><br />
<b>About the book:</b> Love, loss, friendship, and the betrayals of the past all collide in this first women’s fiction novel from New York Times and #1 international bestselling author Christina Lauren (<i>Autoboyography</i>, <i>Dating You / Hating You</i>).<br />
<br />
The story of the heart can never be unwritten.<br />
<br />
Macy Sorensen is settling into an ambitious if emotionally tepid routine: work hard as a new pediatrics resident, plan her wedding to an older, financially secure man, keep her head down and heart tucked away.<br />
<br />
But when she runs into Elliot Petropoulos—the first and only love of her life—the careful bubble she’s constructed begins to dissolve. Once upon a time, Elliot was Macy’s entire world—growing from her gangly bookish friend into the man who coaxed her heart open again after the loss of her mother...only to break it on the very night he declared his love for her.<br />
<br />
Told in alternating timelines between Then and Now, teenage Elliot and Macy grow from friends to much more—spending weekends and lazy summers together in a house outside of San Francisco devouring books, sharing favorite words, and talking through their growing pains and triumphs. As adults, they have become strangers to one another until their chance reunion. Although their memories are obscured by the agony of what happened that night so many years ago, Elliot will come to understand the truth behind Macy’s decade-long silence, and will have to overcome the past and himself to revive her faith in the possibility of an all-consuming love. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/36206591-love-and-other-words">[goodreads]</a></blockquote>
If a book has Christina Lauren's name on it, I have to have it. I don't even care if it's a book that details their shopping lists, haha, I want it! They are some of my most favorite writers, and I can't wait to experience their first experiment in women's fiction.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1510342540l/32333296.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="315" height="320" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1510342540l/32333296.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
<blockquote>
<b>Stay Sweet by Siobhan Vivian</b><br />
<b>About the book:</b> A summer read about first love, feminism, and ice cream.<br />
<br />
Summer in Sand Lake isn’t complete without a trip to Meade Creamery—the local ice cream stand founded in 1944 by Molly Meade who started making ice cream to cheer up her lovesick girlfriends while all the boys were away at war. Since then, the stand has been owned and managed exclusively by local girls, who inevitably become the best of friends. <br />
<br />
Seventeen-year-old Amelia and her best friend Cate have worked at the stand every summer for the past three years, and Amelia is “Head Girl” at the stand this summer. When Molly passes away before Amelia even has her first day in charge, Amelia isn’t sure that the stand can go on. That is, until Molly’s grandnephew Grady arrives and asks Amelia to stay on to help continue the business…but Grady’s got some changes in mind… <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/32333296-stay-sweet">[goodreads]</a></blockquote>
<br />
You had me at ice cream.. and first love.. AND summer! All of these are ingredients for #SuchAGingerRead, plus to be written by Siobhan Vivian is a cherry on top of this ice cream sundae! I feel like I got an intimate look at her writing process with this one as she shared her experience with it through social media as the book came together. I am really looking forward to seeing the finished product (And, that cover? My favorite! She always has the best covers!).<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Let me know in the comments if you've added any of these to your forever growing to-be-read list. Or, if you've been lucky enough to read one already, let me know that too! (spoiler-free of course)</div>
<br />
<br />
<img align="left" height="96" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYGTxPNVhGVEXLtJzHacqN6v8oqsIngtyuVSFJR2aV3R0YM6Tu4hx6dmu6GNoqfqCCjN9biK7UyY92rU786Gpu0ZFSYs8epPcE4ZaZyQE6fEHKbQsciqf-iZ-20R51tQs3j3eogCpDcJYS/s640/sig2.png" style="border: 0pt none;" width="640" />Ginger @ GReads!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17725314423163879042noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9180446384835146464.post-36742085383752434912018-01-30T00:00:00.000-06:002018-01-30T00:00:26.132-06:00Happy Wedding Date Release Day!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaqRQvMw955GIMRilB0GTM69JFb5yobP60qJEnkJOULcV7GRdbpatAcpCh7zUXCJTM0mXsKZMltgJBJfJyguOd3KczLBTJO000hURw7piRS5hK0EZbPS4tJwas_L6W5Eq6er4EVpdGKVPO/s1600/11.15.17_THEWEDDINGDATE_invite_v15.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaqRQvMw955GIMRilB0GTM69JFb5yobP60qJEnkJOULcV7GRdbpatAcpCh7zUXCJTM0mXsKZMltgJBJfJyguOd3KczLBTJO000hURw7piRS5hK0EZbPS4tJwas_L6W5Eq6er4EVpdGKVPO/s320/11.15.17_THEWEDDINGDATE_invite_v15.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
It's finally here! The book I've been raving about for months!! I am so excited to celebrate the release of THE WEDDING DATE by Jasmine Guillory. This novel is one I connected with right away and immediately knew I'd be sharing with all the readers in my life. I've mentioned it quite a bit through my social media platforms, and possibly a time or two here on the blog. I hope you're able to get a copy from your local bookstore, online retailer, or library! If not, I may have an opportunity for you to read a copy below, hehe...<br />
<br />
<center>
<iframe allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/rQFGFYj32uc?rel=0" width="560"></iframe></center>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX0UAns0QnHGctbA2DX2JJlChi6LV33u9wIOCJZqfUuuQ2r__rjzrXyAiRHKO5Bs27oi6dnTOzQZ62nl_BSpA9JQ-dI499kDlj4fE8oq3CBWUA9j5-RSu2rQBMB9XojhzJpqjXI6iPh-GB/s1600/9780399587665+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX0UAns0QnHGctbA2DX2JJlChi6LV33u9wIOCJZqfUuuQ2r__rjzrXyAiRHKO5Bs27oi6dnTOzQZ62nl_BSpA9JQ-dI499kDlj4fE8oq3CBWUA9j5-RSu2rQBMB9XojhzJpqjXI6iPh-GB/s320/9780399587665+%25282%2529.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<blockquote>
<b>About the book: </b>A groomsman and his last-minute guest are about to discover if a fake date can go the distance in a fun and flirty debut novel.<br />
<br />
Agreeing to go to a wedding with a guy she gets stuck with in an elevator is something Alexa Monroe wouldn't normally do. But there's something about Drew Nichols that's too hard to resist.<br />
<br />
On the eve of his ex's wedding festivities, Drew is minus a plus one. Until a power outage strands him with the perfect candidate for a fake girlfriend...<br />
<br />
After Alexa and Drew have more fun than they ever thought possible, Drew has to fly back to Los Angeles and his job as a pediatric surgeon, and Alexa heads home to Berkeley, where she's the mayor's chief of staff. Too bad they can't stop thinking about the other...<br />
<br />
They're just two high-powered professionals on a collision course toward the long distance dating disaster of the century--or closing the gap between what they think they need and what they truly want... <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/33815781-the-wedding-date">[goodreads]</a></blockquote>
<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
THE WEDDING DATE by Jasmine Guillory (an excerpt)</div>
<br />
<i>Alexa danced with Lauren, letting the movement and the laughter shake away her annoying thoughts. When she felt a hand on her waist, she turned to see Drew behind her and laughed again, at how ridiculous the evening had been and how much fun she was suddenly having. He took ahold of one of her hands and swung her around to face him and laughed back down at her. Other members of the wedding party joined their group and danced with and around them, but song after song came on, and he never moved from her side.</i><br />
<i><br />
</i> <i>“Water?” he said in her ear after they’d been on the dance floor for a long time.</i><br />
<i><br />
</i> <i>“Yes, please.” She walked with him over to the bar.</i><br />
<i><br />
</i> <i>She glanced up at the ornate clock over the bar, surprised at how late it had gotten. And how much she didn’t want this night to end. Damn it, it had been fun to be Drew’s fake girlfriend, but she knew that once the clock struck midnight, so to speak, the fairy tale would be all over.</i><br />
<i><br />
</i> <i>He leaned against the bar, his jacket off, his bow tie untied, a little sweaty and disheveled from dancing. Good Lord, this guy was hot.</i><br />
<i><br />
</i> <i>He rolled up his sleeves, exposing his tan forearms. She wanted to run her fingers up and down them and feel how warm and strong they were.</i><br />
<i><br />
</i> <i>She needed to stop letting her imagination run away with her.</i><br />
<i><br />
</i> <i>“Um,” she said. “It’s getting late, and if I want to make the last BART train back to the East Bay, I should probably leave pretty soon.”</i><br />
<i><br />
</i> <i>Why had she said that? Why, when she was standing next to a hot guy, basically panting over him? If she was Maddie, hell, if she was Amy, she would have grabbed one of those hot forearms and wrapped it around her body, letting him know what she wanted without having to say anything. </i><br />
<i><br />
</i> <i>Sadly, she was Alexa, so she would flee instead.</i><br />
<i><br />
</i> <i>He put his water bottle down and looked at her.</i><br />
<i><br />
</i> <i>“Okay.”</i><br />
<i><br />
</i> <i>“Okay,” she said. </i><br />
<i><br />
</i> <i>Olivia and Maddie would get mad at her for not throwing herself at him, but they didn’t understand that she just didn’t know how. Plus, rejection from this guy was the last thing her self-esteem needed. Talk about the opposite of getting back on the horse; that would make her avoid horses, and stables, and all farm animals for another few years. So to speak.</i><br />
<i><br />
</i> <i>He stepped closer to her and put his hand on her waist. Her hand landed on his arm, and, without even meaning to, she ran her fingers up and down. Oh God, touching him like this was as good as she’d thought it would be.</i><br />
<i><br />
</i> <i>“Or”—he looked straight down into her eyes—“you could stay.”</i><br />
<i><br />
</i> <i>A question was in his eyes, and a smile hovered over his lips. His thumb drew slow circles on her hip and then moved up her side to her ribs. His other hand moved up to her face and traced the outline of her lips with his fingers.</i><br />
<i><br />
</i> <i>She shivered.</i><br />
<i><br />
</i> <i>He waited.</i><br />
<i><br />
</i> <i>“Or,” she said, “I could stay.”</i><br />
<div>
<i><br />
</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>***</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br />
</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Want to read more? Enter my giveaway below to win a copy! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Giveaway is open to international readers (Book Depository must be able to ship to you)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
No giveaway accounts allowed || Must be 18 years old to enter</div>
<br />
<a class="rcptr" data-raflid="c6f35a6d81" data-template="" data-theme="classic" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/c6f35a6d81/" id="rcwidget_q1csv6p0" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a><br />
<script src="https://widget-prime.rafflecopter.com/launch.js"></script><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFV8ee5OKuM_t7X8_urjq84hgoIYtwohE7vvSirb3XUqP4mSuiyRyorDZnYOn_BdqT3QkIcSxXdV-9eoXKe2QqHB6OIEjeS4ybhv_-dePRvaPwFb30NsEvZ6MH_UBMyTflXx99T8A10nnA/s1600/TheWeddingDate_banner.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="630" data-original-width="1200" height="336" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFV8ee5OKuM_t7X8_urjq84hgoIYtwohE7vvSirb3XUqP4mSuiyRyorDZnYOn_BdqT3QkIcSxXdV-9eoXKe2QqHB6OIEjeS4ybhv_-dePRvaPwFb30NsEvZ6MH_UBMyTflXx99T8A10nnA/s640/TheWeddingDate_banner.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<img align="left" height="96" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYGTxPNVhGVEXLtJzHacqN6v8oqsIngtyuVSFJR2aV3R0YM6Tu4hx6dmu6GNoqfqCCjN9biK7UyY92rU786Gpu0ZFSYs8epPcE4ZaZyQE6fEHKbQsciqf-iZ-20R51tQs3j3eogCpDcJYS/s640/sig2.png" style="border: 0pt none;" width="640" />Ginger @ GReads!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17725314423163879042noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9180446384835146464.post-65443769530164654742018-01-17T07:55:00.000-06:002018-01-17T07:55:43.848-06:00A Very Unexpected #SuchAGIngerRead<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUIySWK1RW6w3ZVHkn4d26r2eRLhdCZGebIwyb1VYX45-mdcJhCJ1HYMCURhPCJDqF059IT9JiO7vxDk8PyLQq8cE6CF2ZrIfa3LQE2VsGoXFqOzzcDK3cRBX5q56HlcrKqfX9NJxoQ_gS/s1600/%2523SuchAGingerRead.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="512" data-original-width="1024" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUIySWK1RW6w3ZVHkn4d26r2eRLhdCZGebIwyb1VYX45-mdcJhCJ1HYMCURhPCJDqF059IT9JiO7vxDk8PyLQq8cE6CF2ZrIfa3LQE2VsGoXFqOzzcDK3cRBX5q56HlcrKqfX9NJxoQ_gS/s400/%2523SuchAGingerRead.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Typically I can spot a Ginger Read just by looking at a cover on a shelf, or maybe even when I read the summary. Today's Such a Ginger Read was very unexpected, though! I'd added these books to my TBR a few months back after a friend raved about the first book. I don't exactly remember why I added it, though. Nothing in the summary exactly stands out to me. I think I just trusted the friend recommending it. Regardless, I'm super happy I finally picked it up because WOW! This story is hands down my new favorite thing to push on to others as Such A Ginger Read!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1454285305l/27209370.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="267" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1454285305l/27209370.jpg" width="133" /></a><a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1473345619l/29358518.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="314" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1473345619l/29358518.jpg" width="131" /></a><a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1501622137l/35856700.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="314" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1501622137l/35856700.jpg" width="131" /></a></div>
<br />
<blockquote>
<span style="font-size: large;">Trouble Is a Friend of Mine by Stephanie Tromly</span><br />
<b>About the book:</b> Sherlock meets Veronica Mars meets Ferris Bueller’s Day Off in this story of a wisecracking girl who meets a weird but brilliant boy and their roller-coaster of a semester that’s one part awkward, three parts thrilling, and five parts awesome<br />
<br />
When Philip Digby first shows up on her doorstep, Zoe Webster is not impressed. He's rude and he treats her like a book he's already read and knows the ending to. But before she knows it, Digby--annoying, brilliant and somehow attractive?--has dragged her into a series of hilarious and dangerous situations all related to an investigation into the kidnapping of a local teenage girl. A kidnapping that may be connected to the tragic disappearance of his own sister eight years ago.<br />
<br />
When it comes to Digby, Zoe just can't say no. Digby gets her, even though she barely gets herself. But is Digby a hero, or is his manic quest an indication of a desperate attempt to repair his broken family and exercise his own obsessive compulsive tendencies?<br />
<br />
A romance where the leading man is decidedly unromantic, a crime novel where catching the crook isn't the only hook, a friendship story where they aren't even sure they like each other--this is a contemporary debut with razor-sharp dialogue, ridiculously funny action, and the most charismatic dynamic duo you've ever met. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/27209370-trouble-is-a-friend-of-mine">[goodreads]</a></blockquote>
<br />
My first thoughts after reading book one and two: Why aren't more people reading & raving about these books??! From the hilarious witty banter, to the insanely fun plot lines, I couldn't get enough. Book three comes out in April and you bet I already pre-ordered my copy!<br />
<br />
I know some readers are weary when a book is described as "Veronica Mars" like, especially my fellow VMars fans (trust me, I am too, I backed the movie as well!). I will agree that these books give definite Veronica Mars vibes though. I see the similarities with the obvious: high school teenagers attempting to solve local crime + dry, hysterical humor. However, I would describe Digby (the male main character) as more Veronica Mars-like, than Zoe (the female lead). It's not a copy-cat, by any means, these books possess a fresh storyline with characters that are simply irresistible all on their own.<br />
<br />
Let's chat about those characters, shall we? Between Digby and Zoe's constant banter, along with their mix-matched bag of friends (that aren't necessarily the best of buds in the beginning), they are the foundation of what makes these books so spectacular, in my mind. I really appreciate an author who can develop characters so effortlessly (at least it comes across that way to the reader) and organically. I felt like I was literally watching a movie scene play out before my eyes, especially when this cast of characters find themselves in the trickiest, yet most hilarious, situations.<br />
<br />
I zipped through books one and two in one weekend, and like I said earlier I am so eager to get my hands on book three when it comes out in a few months. If you're someone who enjoys high paced storylines with witty, smart characters, then you'll definitely want to check this series out. Or, if you're like me, take a chance on them and discover a gem that has definitely become Such A Ginger Read!<br />
<br />
<img align="left" height="96" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYGTxPNVhGVEXLtJzHacqN6v8oqsIngtyuVSFJR2aV3R0YM6Tu4hx6dmu6GNoqfqCCjN9biK7UyY92rU786Gpu0ZFSYs8epPcE4ZaZyQE6fEHKbQsciqf-iZ-20R51tQs3j3eogCpDcJYS/s640/sig2.png" style="border: 0pt none;" width="640" />Ginger @ GReads!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17725314423163879042noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9180446384835146464.post-4389148469014502482018-01-10T00:00:00.000-06:002018-01-10T00:00:34.080-06:00All New #SuchAGingerRead: Puddin'<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS734IE3YWK2cC4S4Jac8HEugzWk4KJQZDeI0NGtbXjaueJmSa1v-QntzzX0M_HSQKk532N99Kd6-kwbDyQQ3pq4fF_xL-9zhTxKpf4FZHOhfd21SmT5ABQmy6ysx_aJTmpHbzFJ5m2Dz5/s1600/%2523SuchAGingerRead+2018.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="264" data-original-width="551" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS734IE3YWK2cC4S4Jac8HEugzWk4KJQZDeI0NGtbXjaueJmSa1v-QntzzX0M_HSQKk532N99Kd6-kwbDyQQ3pq4fF_xL-9zhTxKpf4FZHOhfd21SmT5ABQmy6ysx_aJTmpHbzFJ5m2Dz5/s1600/%2523SuchAGingerRead+2018.png" /></a></div>
<br />
Howdy, friends! Last year I started a series on the blog titled "Such a Ginger Read" that highlights books I read that are definitely a me kind of book. Now, for those who don't know me, you may be wondering: What exactly IS a Ginger Read? There are lots of ingredients to this type of story, but if its got any of these, then you can definitely call it a Ginger Read: romance, emotional depth, set during the summer (bonus!), and a contemporary storyline.<br />
<br />
I've already read my first #SuchAGingerRead of the year and we're only a week in. I know I'll be talking about this book a lot in the months to come, especially since it doesn't publish until May. It's a strong contender for being a total Ginger Read, and bonus points for it being set in my home state: Texas!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1506961175l/28269171.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="315" height="320" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1506961175l/28269171.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
<blockquote>
<span style="font-size: large;">Puddin' (Dumplin, #2) by Julie Murphy</span><br />
<b>To be published:</b> May 8, 2018<br />
<b>About the book:</b> It is a companion novel to Dumplin', which follows supporting characters from the first book in the months after Willowdean's star turn in the Clover City pageant. <br />
<br />
Millie Michalchuk has gone to fat camp every year since she was a girl. Not this year. This year she has new plans to chase her secret dream—and to kiss her crush. Callie Reyes is the pretty girl who is next in line for dance team captain and has the popular boyfriend. But when it comes to other girls, she’s more frenemy than friend. When circumstances bring the girls together over the course of a semester, they will surprise everyone (especially themselves) by realizing they might have more in common than they ever imagined. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/35887533-puddin">[goodreads]</a></blockquote>
<br />
Anything Julie Murphy writes is a Ginger Read, and this one follows suit just like her previous novels have. <i>Puddin' </i>is the follow-up (or companion) novel to <i>Dumplin'</i>. They are two different stories; however, I would still recommend reading <i>Dumplin'</i> first since there is a lot of character and storyline over lap. Plus, <i>Dumplin' </i>is amazing in its own right and you should read that story anyway!<br />
<br />
<i>Puddin'</i> focuses on two very different, yet very special characters we were first introduced to in <i>Dumplin'</i>: Millie and Callie. I was drawn to both of these girls for separate reasons. They shine bright in their own right; especially when I found myself hating one, and loving an another. It's a testament to an author's craft when by the end of the novel you've developed a deep connection, and love, for both main characters, despite all their flaws.<br />
<br />
Julie Murphy has taken a story, that I feel so many are able to relate to, and gives it her own authenticity. It's a story about self-doubt and insecurities. But also about stepping out, and rising above it all, even when it's the most terrifying thing in the world. There is so much good in this story, one that I wish I'd had as a teen. Picking up a Julie Murphy novel feels like coming home, and it's especially home sweet home for me since this one is set in Texas. When it comes to YA contemporary, this is Such a Ginger Read!<br />
<br />
<img align="left" height="96" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYGTxPNVhGVEXLtJzHacqN6v8oqsIngtyuVSFJR2aV3R0YM6Tu4hx6dmu6GNoqfqCCjN9biK7UyY92rU786Gpu0ZFSYs8epPcE4ZaZyQE6fEHKbQsciqf-iZ-20R51tQs3j3eogCpDcJYS/s640/sig2.png" style="border: 0pt none;" width="640" />Ginger @ GReads!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17725314423163879042noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9180446384835146464.post-45215746525827643152018-01-03T00:00:00.000-06:002018-01-03T00:00:39.267-06:00Why Hello There, 2018!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqPSEThhswoT066u9QZYwHxHg5xPTCZYFLm0-XojXYKv_e9ChylAiDkHABygvzkuZZ93A95mo8tsfm40hIHc1UrnNwjrmrkNQC3SbM90ECrTSK5PqHrpIEcbJa9K1YYKPTL-LZ1ZheAGej/s1600/Reading+%252B+Writing+%252B+Listening.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="828" height="242" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqPSEThhswoT066u9QZYwHxHg5xPTCZYFLm0-XojXYKv_e9ChylAiDkHABygvzkuZZ93A95mo8tsfm40hIHc1UrnNwjrmrkNQC3SbM90ECrTSK5PqHrpIEcbJa9K1YYKPTL-LZ1ZheAGej/s640/Reading+%252B+Writing+%252B+Listening.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7hFQzQiOn4R8mOCfevrud2uq6xc7uWTRu7ribUh6YCRXwynVFx4Ly2YoN6O4B3Gt-nKrOzN4-H2mVD2Ox1sPRuS4sMS9DFuxTClZGgzrOKdm6sjaDnhkgYnEg4V6Dgqy1pBuF1LQcvUFD/s1600/hello.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7hFQzQiOn4R8mOCfevrud2uq6xc7uWTRu7ribUh6YCRXwynVFx4Ly2YoN6O4B3Gt-nKrOzN4-H2mVD2Ox1sPRuS4sMS9DFuxTClZGgzrOKdm6sjaDnhkgYnEg4V6Dgqy1pBuF1LQcvUFD/s320/hello.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
It's the first week of the new year and already I am inspired by the newness of it all. Typically I shy away from new year resolutions because I feel that I'm just setting myself up for failure. Why admit to the world that I am going to commit to something, only later bailing out, and then feeling down on myself about it for the rest of the year? Yeah, no thanks.<br />
<br />
I'm taking a different approach this year by making small changes (eating less sugar, more protein) to eventually add up to a bigger change (a healthier heart & mind). Positivity is a key word I am going to focus on this year. If I can feel more positive about myself, project more positivity into the universe, then perhaps it will create a happier, healthier space for me in this crazy world we live in.<br />
<br />
For the first time, in a long time, I've been inspired to write again. Back in 2013 & 2014, I ventured into NaNoWriMo territory and discovered that I really enjoyed writing. But since then, I've also discovered that I only enjoy it when I feel a story needs to be told. I can't just write, because I want to write. It's been a few years, but that passion has slowly seeped its way back in and I've started tinkering with a new story idea. Thanks to my good friend Trish Doller, already the best cheerleader, I've got something brewing. I'm not quite ready to share my words with the world, but when I do, I'll be sure to post snip-its here and there.<br />
<br />
Listening to music is never a new thing for me, but creating new playlists is always a fun thing to do. Spotify has been my best friend for quite some time. It's the best source for me to discover new music and build playlists to my liking. I literally listen to the app daily, whether it's through my phone, on my iPad, or sitting at the computer. Music is constantly on in my world. Here's a listen of my top songs from 2017:<br />
<br />
<center>
<iframe allowtransparency="true" frameborder="0" height="300" src="https://embed.spotify.com/?uri=spotify%3Auser%3Aspotify%3Aplaylist%3A37i9dQZF1E9DzBHTdnE1bl" width="650"></iframe></center>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRBfyngd06PDYUx6Ndm7RxkIBxM67DspfkQLiF20LkdzTU1LxZxW9pyxHZJsXyohi67Z5fqWPl4b4yn8N8neGiVk_6zrRq5YK4MDUE2AYXs_QDuEyTl_noblO4NuCl2ewsPYsiNNwlGWcI/s1600/9days.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRBfyngd06PDYUx6Ndm7RxkIBxM67DspfkQLiF20LkdzTU1LxZxW9pyxHZJsXyohi67Z5fqWPl4b4yn8N8neGiVk_6zrRq5YK4MDUE2AYXs_QDuEyTl_noblO4NuCl2ewsPYsiNNwlGWcI/s320/9days.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
As for reading, well we all know THAT is not new for me, either. I just finished my first book of the year & it was FANTASTIC. Seriously, Katie Cotugno is a force in the writing world, one I hope continues to build and build, because damn she shines bright! Her upcoming novel <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/35068736-9-days-and-9-nights">9 Days & 9 Nights</a> picks up just after her novel <i>99 Days</i>, and it is... well, a journey, for sure. I read it almost in one sitting (just stopped long enough to go to bed.. because ya know, sleep needs to happen sometimes). It's already a favorite for the year I know and THE YEAR JUST STARTED! I'm scared for whatever I read next. Lots to live up to there.<br />
<br />
2018, you are looking promising so far. Here's to a new year of more fabulous books to read, stories to write, and music to be inspired by.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<img align="left" height="96" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYGTxPNVhGVEXLtJzHacqN6v8oqsIngtyuVSFJR2aV3R0YM6Tu4hx6dmu6GNoqfqCCjN9biK7UyY92rU786Gpu0ZFSYs8epPcE4ZaZyQE6fEHKbQsciqf-iZ-20R51tQs3j3eogCpDcJYS/s640/sig2.png" style="border: 0pt none;" width="640" />Ginger @ GReads!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17725314423163879042noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9180446384835146464.post-45005627118917055302017-12-27T00:00:00.000-06:002017-12-27T00:00:03.704-06:00A New Year of New Books: My 2018 TBR List + Giveaway<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlBLEou63lsJxeE0PQeyvTBSiYpGToEe4xhkvV5AdolPOuROAWWsXzmppxGy_xznC6xJ_7s4UGalPi5yNBaOk5oJtxQ385GyrWT437oYilCApqQVsC6iSoWcpeEoryYiw34a8xiIkujAnT/s1600/A+New+Year+%25E2%2580%25A8of+New+Books.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="512" data-original-width="1024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlBLEou63lsJxeE0PQeyvTBSiYpGToEe4xhkvV5AdolPOuROAWWsXzmppxGy_xznC6xJ_7s4UGalPi5yNBaOk5oJtxQ385GyrWT437oYilCApqQVsC6iSoWcpeEoryYiw34a8xiIkujAnT/s640/A+New+Year+%25E2%2580%25A8of+New+Books.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
We are just days away from the New Year beginning, can you believe it?! And that means a whole new year of book releases to look forward to! I've got an ongoing list on <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/4345315-ginger-at-greadsbooks-com?shelf=to-read-2018">my goodreads page</a> of both Adult & YA books I am planning to read in 2018. I thought I'd pick a few (okay, more like a lot!) to feature on the blog. After you've perused the list, you'll have an opportunity to enter my giveaway to win a pre-order of one of these books! This giveaway is open to US & Canada residents only, must be 18 years old to enter, and follow the contest rules in the specific giveaway.<br />
<br />
Be sure to let me know in the comments if you've added any of these books to your own 2018 TBR list, or if you've got others to recommend to me. Happy New Year, friends, and Happy New Year of Reading New Books!<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><u>January 2018</u></span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1498546653l/34848136.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="314" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1498546653l/34848136.jpg" width="131" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Together at Midnight by Jennifer Castle</span><br />
<b>About the book:</b> What does it really mean to be kind . . . and why does it sometimes feel like the hardest thing in the world to do? High school senior Kendall, who just returned from a life-changing semester in Europe, and Max, who is drifting his way through a gap year before college, struggle with these questions when they witness a tragic accident in New York City during the holiday season. Racked with guilt, the two accept a dare to perform random acts of kindness to strangers. The challenge pulls these two teens, who have a history together from back home, closer and closer as they explore a vibrant city filled with other people’s stories and secrets.<br />
<br />
Kendall and Max can’t deny their growing bond, even though they both have other romantic entanglements and uncertain futures. As the clock counts down on New Year’s Eve, will they find themselves together at midnight? <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/34848136-together-at-midnight">[goodreads]</a><br />
<i><br />
</i> <i>*I read this one already & really enjoyed it. Had to include it on my list because I want others to read it, too!</i><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br />
</i> <i>_______________________________________________________</i></div>
<i><br />
</i> <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1507458393l/35297349.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="299" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1507458393l/35297349.jpg" width="125" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">This Love Story Will Self-Destruct by Leslie Cohen</span><br />
<b>About the book: </b>This is the classic tale of boy meets girl: Girl…goes home with someone else.<br />
<br />
Meet Eve. She’s a dreamer, a feeler, a careening well of sensitivities who can’t quite keep her feet on the ground, or steer clear of trouble. She’s a laugher, a crier, a quirky and quick-witted bleeding-heart-worrier.<br />
<br />
Meet Ben. He’s an engineer, an expert at leveling floors who likes order, structure, and straight lines. He doesn’t opine, he doesn’t ruminate, he doesn’t simmer until he boils over.<br />
<br />
So naturally, when the two first cross paths, sparks don’t exactly fly. But then they meet again. And again. And then, finally, they find themselves with a deep yet fragile connection that will change the course of their relationship—possibly forever.<br />
<br />
Follow Eve and Ben as they navigate their twenties on a winding journey through first jobs, first dates, and first breakups; through first reunions, first betrayals and, maybe, first love. This is When Harry Met Sally reimagined; a charming tale told from two unapologetically original points of view. With an acerbic edge and heartwarming humor, debut novelist Leslie Cohen takes us on a tour of what life looks like when it doesn’t go according to plan, and explores the complexity, chaos, and comedy in finding a relationship built to last. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/35297349-this-love-story-will-self-destruct">[goodreads]</a><br />
<br />
<i>*Another book I already read and had to include -- fans of adult fiction with witty, interesting characters centered around a realistic look at love will eat this up. I know I did!</i><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br />
</i> <i>_______________________________________________________</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; clear: both; color: black; font-family: Times; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0px; orphans: 2; text-align: center; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1498076521l/33815781.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="317" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1498076521l/33815781.jpg" width="133" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">The Wedding Date by Jasmine Guillory</span><br />
<b>About the book:</b> A groomsman and his last-minute guest are about to discover if a fake date can go the distance in a fun and flirty debut novel.<br />
<br />
Agreeing to go to a wedding with a guy she gets stuck with in an elevator is something Alexa Monroe wouldn't normally do. But there's something about Drew Nichols that's too hard to resist.<br />
<br />
On the eve of his ex's wedding festivities, Drew is minus a plus one. Until a power outage strands him with the perfect candidate for a fake girlfriend...<br />
<br />
After Alexa and Drew have more fun than they ever thought possible, Drew has to fly back to Los Angeles and his job as a pediatric surgeon, and Alexa heads home to Berkeley, where she's the mayor's chief of staff. Too bad they can't stop thinking about the other...<br />
<br />
They're just two high-powered professionals on a collision course toward the long distance dating disaster of the century--or closing the gap between what they think they need and what they truly want... <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/33815781-the-wedding-date">[goodreads]</a><br />
<br />
<i>*Yet another book I've already read & have pushed on to everyone I know. LOVE is not a strong enough word for how I feel about this story. It's already made my top reads of 2018 list & the year hasn't even started yet! LOL</i><br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><u>February 2018</u></span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1498506369l/35098416.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="315" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1498506369l/35098416.jpg" width="132" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">When My Heart Joins the Thousand by A.J. Steiger</span><br />
<b>About the book:</b> A YA romance featuring a neuroatypical girl with a tragic history and the chronically ill boy trying to break the vault encasing her heart<br />
<br />
Obviously I’m not what most people would describe as happy. But that has nothing to do with anything. Happiness is not a priority. Survival is.<br />
<br />
Alvie Fitz doesn’t fit in, and she doesn’t care. She’s spent years swallowing meds and bad advice from doctors and social workers. Adjust, adapt. Pretend to be normal. It sounds so easy.<br />
<br />
If she can make it to her eighteenth birthday without any major mishaps, she’ll be legally emancipated. Free. But if she fails, she’ll become a ward of the state and be sent back to the group home.<br />
<br />
All she wants is to be left alone to spend time with her friend, Chance, the one-winged hawk at the zoo where she works. She can bide her time with him until her emancipation. Humans are overrated anyway. Then she meets Stanley, a boy who might be even stranger than she is—a boy who walks with a cane, who turns up every day with a new injury, whose body seems as fragile as glass. Without even meaning to, she finds herself getting close to him. But Alvie remembers what happened to the last person she truly cared about.<br />
<br />
Her past stalks her with every step, and it has sharp teeth. But if she can find the strength to face the enemy inside her, maybe she’ll have a chance at happiness after all. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/35098416-when-my-heart-joins-the-thousand">[goodreads]</a><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br />
</i> <i>_______________________________________________________</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; clear: both; color: black; font-family: Times; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0px; orphans: 2; text-align: center; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1497084481l/35297218.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="306" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1497084481l/35297218.jpg" width="128" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">By the Book by Julia Sonneborn</span><br />
<b>About the book:</b> An English professor struggling for tenure discovers that her ex-fiancé has just become the president of her college—and her new boss—in this whip-smart modern retelling of Jane Austen’s classic Persuasion.<br />
<br />
Anne Corey is about to get schooled.<br />
<br />
An English professor in California, she’s determined to score a position on the coveted tenure track at her college. All she’s got to do is get a book deal, snag a promotion, and boom! She’s in. But then Adam Martinez—her first love and ex-fiancé—shows up as the college’s new president.<br />
<br />
Anne should be able to keep herself distracted. After all, she’s got a book to write, an aging father to take care of, and a new romance developing with the college’s insanely hot writer-in-residence. But no matter where she turns, there’s Adam, as smart and sexy as ever. As the school year advances and her long-buried feelings begin to resurface, Anne begins to wonder whether she just might get a second chance at love.<br />
<br />
Funny, smart, and full of heart, this modern ode to Jane Austen’s classic explores what happens when we run into the demons of our past...and when they turn out not to be so bad, after all. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/35297218-by-the-book">[goodreads]</a><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br />
</i> <i>_______________________________________________________</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; clear: both; color: black; font-family: Times; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0px; orphans: 2; text-align: center; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://as.nyu.edu/content/dam/nyu-as/faculty/images/PlaceholderBook.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="258" data-original-width="200" height="200" src="https://as.nyu.edu/content/dam/nyu-as/faculty/images/PlaceholderBook.png" width="155" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The Comfort Zone by Sally Thorne</span><br />
<b>About the book: </b>From the author of THE HATING GAME comes a poignant and laugh-out-loud novel, perfect for summer, about sisters, love, and the risks that can lead to the biggest rewards...<br />
<br />
First time (blockbuster!) author Emma Carson believes that drama belongs in books. It's why she's been building a tranquil new life in London, away from her wealthy, distant father and her D-list celebrity half-sister, Claudia. But when Emma's writer's grant ends and she heads home to New York- with a pitifully underweight draft novel to explain to her editor- she finds her Dad is being extorted- again- and Claudia has been assigned a bodyguard.<br />
<br />
Alexei Aristov is big, quiet and gorgeous, despite his scars - and the first rule he learned in Bodyguard School was to not get involved with his clients. Especially if there's a spark. If Emma can just finish her book in solitude, decide on London or New York, and repair her relationship with Claudia, she can end this chapter nice and neatly. But real life can't be edited, deleted or skipped over. Emma thinks this is going to be easy? Famous last words! <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/31681941-the-comfort-zone">[goodreads]</a><br />
<i><br />
</i> <i>*The publication date for this keeps changing, so no idea if this is still going to be a February release. Regardless, it's definitely on my TBR for whenever it does make its debut!</i><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br />
</i> <i>_______________________________________________________</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; clear: both; color: black; font-family: Times; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0px; orphans: 2; text-align: center; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1495340090l/34138299.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="260" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1495340090l/34138299.jpg" width="130" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Interlude by Chantele Sedgwick</span><br />
<b>About the book:</b> When Mia Cox finds out she can't donate her kidney to save her younger sister's life, she doesn't hesitate to jump on a plane to New York, convinced she can talk their estranged birth mother, Carmen, into donating hers instead. She doesn't know the city or how she'll find Carmen when she gets there, but she has to try. If she doesn't, Maddy's going to die.<br />
<br />
On the cross-country flight, Mia figures she'll have more than enough time to make a plan for when she lands--where she'll go, where she'll sleep, what she'll eat. But then she falls into an embarrassing conversation with the cute boy sitting next to her, and only after she insults him does she realize he's the one and only Jaxton Scott, the troubled lead singer of a famous rock band she hates. While Mia is running toward what she hopes is a cure for her sister, Jax is running away from his rockstar life. As the hours pass, they get to know each other, and she finds herself opening up to him like she never has to anyone.<br />
<br />
When Jax volunteers to help Mia on the rest of her journey, she's hesitant to accept his offer. Under different circumstances, she would want to get to know him better, but how can she entertain this random crush on a real-life rockstar while Maddy lies in the hospital, her name one of many on a never-ending transplant list?<br />
<br />
Though everything seems perfect while they're in the air, once on the ground again, Mia's lack of preparation catches up with her, and she receives grave news from home. Clinging to the shred of hope she has left, she accepts Jax's help but makes it clear that her priority is finding Carmen and saving Maddy's life. She will not, under any circumstances, stray from her mission no matter how cute, thoughtful, and sweet her new friend may be. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/34138299-interlude">[goodreads]</a><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; clear: both; color: black; font-family: Times; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0px; orphans: 2; text-align: center; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><u>March 2018</u></span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1505671365l/32797614.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="317" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1505671365l/32797614.jpg" width="133" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">12 Steps to Normal by Farrah Penn</span><br />
<b>About the book: </b>James Patterson presents this emotionally resonant novel that shows that while some broken things can't be put back exactly the way they were, they can be repaired and made even stronger.<br />
<br />
Kira's Twelve Steps To A Normal Life<br />
<br />
1. Accept Grams is gone.<br />
2. Learn to forgive Dad.<br />
3. Steal back ex-boyfriend from best friend...<br />
<br />
And somewhere between 1 and 12, realize that when your parent's an alcoholic, there's no such thing as "normal."<br />
When Kira's father enters rehab, she's forced to leave everything behind--her home, her best friends, her boyfriend...everything she loves. Now her father's sober (again) and Kira is returning home, determined to get her life back to normal...exactly as it was before she was sent away.<br />
<br />
But is that what Kira really wants?<br />
<br />
Life, love, and loss come crashing together in this visceral, heartfelt story by BuzzFeed writer Farrah Penn about a girl who struggles to piece together the shards of her once-normal life before his alcoholism tore it apart. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/32797614-12-steps-to-normal">[goodreads]</a><br />
<br />
<i>*It's not every day someone you know writes a book & has it published! Loved this one & can't wait to celebrate its release!!</i><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br />
</i> <i>_______________________________________________________</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; clear: both; color: black; font-family: Times; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0px; orphans: 2; text-align: center; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1507458097l/35297272.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="305" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1507458097l/35297272.jpg" width="128" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Emergency Contact by Mary H.K. Choi</span><br />
<b>About the book: </b>From debut author Mary H.K. Choi comes a compulsively readable novel that shows young love in all its awkward glory—perfect for fans of Eleanor & Park and To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before.<br />
<br />
For Penny Lee high school was a total nonevent. Her friends were okay, her grades were fine, and while she somehow managed to land a boyfriend, he doesn’t actually know anything about her. When Penny heads to college in Austin, Texas, to learn how to become a writer, it’s seventy-nine miles and a zillion light years away from everything she can’t wait to leave behind.<br />
<br />
Sam’s stuck. Literally, figuratively, emotionally, financially. He works at a café and sleeps there too, on a mattress on the floor of an empty storage room upstairs. He knows that this is the god-awful chapter of his life that will serve as inspiration for when he’s a famous movie director but right this second the seventeen bucks in his checking account and his dying laptop are really testing him.<br />
<br />
When Sam and Penny cross paths it’s less meet-cute and more a collision of unbearable awkwardness. Still, they swap numbers and stay in touch—via text—and soon become digitally inseparable, sharing their deepest anxieties and secret dreams without the humiliating weirdness of having to see each other. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/35297272-emergency-contact">[goodreads]</a><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br />
</i> <i>_______________________________________________________</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; clear: both; color: black; font-family: Times; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0px; orphans: 2; text-align: center; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1496278339l/25908345.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="307" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1496278339l/25908345.jpg" width="128" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Finding Felicity by Stacey Kade</span><br />
<b>About the book:</b> Caroline Sands has never been particularly good at making friends. And her parents’ divorce and the move to Arizona three years ago didn’t help. Being the new girl is hard enough without being socially awkward too. So out of desperation and a desire to please her worried mother, Caroline invented a whole life for herself—using characters from Felicity, an old show she discovered online and fell in love with.<br />
<br />
But now it’s time for Caroline to go off to college and she wants nothing more than to leave her old “life” behind and build something real. However, when her mother discovers the truth about her manufactured friends, she gives Caroline an ultimatum: Prove in this first semester that she can make friends of the nonfictional variety and thrive in a new environment. Otherwise, it’s back to living at home—and a lot of therapy.<br />
<br />
Armed with nothing more than her resolve and a Felicity-inspired plan, Caroline accepts the challenge. But she soon realizes that the real world is rarely as simple as television makes it out to be. And to find a place where she truly belongs, Caroline may have to abandon her script and take the risk of being herself. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25908345-finding-felicity">[goodreads]</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><u>April 2018</u></span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1497542946l/35297469.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="314" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1497542946l/35297469.jpg" width="131" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Starry Eyes by Jenn Bennett</span><br />
<b>About the book:</b> In this romantic dramedy from the author of Alex, Approximately, a teen girl’s way-too-ordinary life is driven off the beaten path when she’s abandoned in the wilderness with her worst adversary—the boy who broke her heart.<br />
<br />
Ever since last year’s homecoming dance, best friends-turned-best enemies Zorie and Lennon have made an art of avoiding each other. It doesn’t hurt that their families are the modern day, Californian version of the Montagues and Capulets.<br />
<br />
But when a group camping trip goes south, Zorie and Lennon find themselves stranded in the wilderness. Alone. Together.<br />
<br />
What could go wrong?<br />
<br />
With no one but each other for company, Zorie and Lennon have no choice but to hash out their issues via witty jabs and insults as they try to make their way to safety. But fighting each other while also fighting off the forces of nature makes getting out of the woods in one piece less and less likely.<br />
<br />
And as the two travel deeper into Northern California’s rugged backcountry, secrets and hidden feelings surface. But can Zorie and Lennon’s rekindled connection survive out in the real world? Or was it just a result of the fresh forest air and the magic of the twinkling stars? <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/35297469-starry-eyes">[goodreads]</a><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br />
</i> <i>_______________________________________________________</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; clear: both; color: black; font-family: Times; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0px; orphans: 2; text-align: center; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1504937900l/36206591.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="306" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1504937900l/36206591.jpg" width="128" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Love and Other Words by Christina Lauren</span><br />
<b>About the book: </b>The heart may hide, but it never forgets.<br />
<br />
The first women’s fiction novel from New York Times and #1 international bestselling author Christina Lauren (Autoboyography, Dating You / Hating You).<br />
<br />
Macy Sorensen is settling into an ambitious if emotionally tepid routine: work hard as a new pediatrics resident, plan her wedding to an older, financially secure man, keep her head down and heart tucked away.<br />
<br />
But when she runs into Elliot Petropoulos—the first and only love of her life—the careful bubble she’s constructed begins to dissolve. Once upon a time, Elliot was Macy’s entire world—growing from her gangly teen friend into the man who coaxed her heart open again after the loss of her mother…only to break it on the very night he declared his love for her.<br />
<br />
Told in alternating timelines between Then and Now, teenage Elliot and Macy grow from friends to much more—spending weekends and lazy summers together in a house outside of San Francisco reading books, sharing favorite words, and talking through their growing pains and triumphs. As adults, they have become strangers to one another until their chance reunion. Although their memories are obscured by the agony of what happened that night so many years ago, Elliot will come to understand the truth behind Macy’s decade-long silence, and will have to overcome the past and himself to revive her faith in the possibility of an all-consuming love. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/36206591-love-and-other-words">[goodreads]</a><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br />
</i> <i>_______________________________________________________</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; clear: both; color: black; font-family: Times; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0px; orphans: 2; text-align: center; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1510342540l/32333296.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="315" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1510342540l/32333296.jpg" width="132" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Stay Sweet by Siobhan Vivian</span><br />
<b>About the book:</b> From the author of The Last Boy and Girl in the World and The List comes a bold and sweet summer read about first love, feminism, and ice cream.<br />
<br />
Summer in Sand Lake isn’t complete without a trip to Meade Creamery—the local ice cream stand founded in 1944 by Molly Meade who started making ice cream to cheer up her lovesick girlfriends while all the boys were away at war. Since then, the stand has been owned and managed exclusively by local girls, who inevitably become the best for friends. Seventeen-year-old Amelia and her best friend Cate have worked at the stand every summer for the past three years, and Amelia is “Head Girl” at the stand this summer. When Molly passes away before Amelia even has her first day in charge, Amelia isn’t sure that stand can go on. That is, until Molly’s grandnephew Grady arrives and asks Amelia to stay on to help continue the business…but Grady’s got some changes in mind… <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/32333296-stay-sweet">[goodreads]</a><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br />
</i> <i>_______________________________________________________</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; clear: both; color: black; font-family: Times; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0px; orphans: 2; text-align: center; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1511323173l/36639505.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="315" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1511323173l/36639505.jpg" width="132" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">My Oxford Year: A Novel by Julia Whelan</span><br />
<b>About the book:</b> Major Motion Picture Already in Development with Temple Hill Entertainment<br />
<br />
Set amidst the breathtaking beauty of Oxford, this sparkling debut novel tells the unforgettable story about a determined young woman eager to make her mark in the world and the handsome man who introduces her to an incredible love that will irrevocably alter her future—perfect for fans of JoJo Moyes and Nicholas Sparks.<br />
<br />
American Ella Durran has had the same plan for her life since she was thirteen: Study at Oxford. At 24, she’s finally made it to England on a Rhodes Scholarship when she’s offered an unbelievable position in a rising political star’s presidential campaign. With the promise that she’ll work remotely and return to DC at the end of her Oxford year, she’s free to enjoy her Once in a Lifetime Experience. That is, until a smart-mouthed local who is too quick with his tongue and his car ruins her shirt and her first day.<br />
<br />
When Ella discovers that her English literature course will be taught by none other than that same local, Jamie Davenport, she thinks for the first time that Oxford might not be all she’s envisioned. But a late-night drink reveals a connection she wasn’t anticipating finding and what begins as a casual fling soon develops into something much more when Ella learns Jamie has a life-changing secret.<br />
<br />
Immediately, Ella is faced with a seemingly impossible decision: turn her back on the man she’s falling in love with to follow her political dreams or be there for him during a trial neither are truly prepared for. As the end of her year in Oxford rapidly approaches, Ella must decide if the dreams she’s always wanted are the same ones she’s now yearning for. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/36639505-my-oxford-year">[goodreads]</a><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br />
</i> <i>_______________________________________________________</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; clear: both; color: black; font-family: Times; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0px; orphans: 2; text-align: center; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1511820386l/36470842.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="317" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1511820386l/36470842.jpg" width="133" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">I Have Lost My Way by Gayle Forman</span><br />
<b>About the book: </b>A powerful display of empathy and friendship from the #1 New York Times Bestselling author of If I Stay.<br />
<br />
Around the time that Freya loses her voice while recording her debut album, Harun is making plans to run away from home to find the boy that he loves, and Nathaniel is arriving in New York City after a family tragedy leaves him isolated on the outskirts of Washington state. After the three of them collide in Central Park, they slowly reveal the parts of their past that they haven't been able to confront, and together, they find their way back to who they're supposed to be.<br />
<br />
Told over the course of a single day from three different perspectives, Gayle Forman's newest novel about the power of friendship and being true to who you are is filled with the elegant prose that her fans have come to know and love. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/36470842-i-have-lost-my-way">[goodreads]</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><u>May 2018</u></span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1505931944l/35888335.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="314" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1505931944l/35888335.jpg" width="131" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Bookish Boyfriends by Tiffany Schmidt</span><br />
<b>About the book:</b> In this contemporary YA, a teenager’s favorite literary heroes woo her in real life<br />
<br />
The first of two books in an intended paperback original series about a girl whose classic literary crushes manifest in real life. Merrilee Campbell, 16, thinks boys are better in books, chivalry is dead, and there’d be nothing more romantic than having just one guy woo her like the heroes in classic stories. She’s about to get the chance to test these daydreams when she, her best friend, Eliza, and her younger sister, Rory, transfer into Reginald R. Hero High, where all their fantasies come true—often with surprising consequences. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/35888335-bookish-boyfriends">[goodreads]</a><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br />
</i> <i>_______________________________________________________</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; clear: both; color: black; font-family: Times; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0px; orphans: 2; text-align: center; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1508174072l/35068736.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="314" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1508174072l/35068736.jpg" width="131" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">9 Days and 9 Nights by Katie Cotugno</span><br />
<b>About the book: </b>The irresistible sequel to the bestselling 99 Days.<br />
<br />
Molly Barlow isn’t that girl anymore. A business major at her college in Boston, she’s reinvented herself after everything that went down a year ago . . . after all the people she hurt and the family she tore apart.<br />
<br />
Slowly, life is getting back to normal. Molly has just said “I love you” to her new boyfriend, Ian, and they are off on a romantic European vacation together, starting with scenic London. But there on a Tube platform, the past catches up to her in the form of Gabe, her ex, traveling on his own parallel vacation with new girlfriend Sadie.<br />
<br />
After comparing itineraries, Ian ends up extending an invite for Gabe and Sadie to join them on the next leg of their trip, to Ireland. Sadie, who’s dying to go there, jumps at the prospect. And Molly and Gabe can’t bring themselves to tell the truth about who they once were to each other to their new significant others.<br />
<br />
Now Molly has to spend nine days and nine nights with the boy she once loved, the boy whose heart she shredded, without Ian knowing. Will she make it through as new, improved Molly, or will everything that happened between her and Gabe come rushing back? <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/35068736-9-days-and-9-nights">[goodreads]</a><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br />
</i> <i>_______________________________________________________</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; clear: both; color: black; font-family: Times; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0px; orphans: 2; text-align: center; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1506961175l/28269171.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="315" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1506961175l/28269171.jpg" width="132" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Puddin' (Dumplin' #2) by Julie Murphy</span><br />
<b>About the book:</b> It is a companion novel to Dumplin', which follows supporting characters from the first book in the months after Willowdean's star turn in the Clover City pageant.<br />
<br />
Millie Michalchuk has gone to fat camp every year since she was a girl. Not this year. This year she has new plans to chase her secret dream—and to kiss her crush. Callie Reyes is the pretty girl who is next in line for dance team captain and has the popular boyfriend. But when it comes to other girls, she’s more frenemy than friend. When circumstances bring the girls together over the course of a semester, they will surprise everyone (especially themselves) by realizing they might have more in common than they ever imagined. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/28269171-puddin">[goodreads]</a><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br />
</i> <i>_______________________________________________________</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; clear: both; color: black; font-family: Times; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0px; orphans: 2; text-align: center; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1505855827l/35704397.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="317" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1505855827l/35704397.jpg" width="133" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">The Way You Make Me Feel by Maurene Goo</span><br />
<b>About the book: </b>Clara Shin lives for pranks and disruption. When she takes one joke too far, her dad sentences her to a summer working on his food truck, the KoBra, alongside her uptight classmate Rose Carver. Not the carefree summer Clara had imagined. But maybe Rose isn’t so bad. Maybe the boy named Hamlet (yes, Hamlet) crushing on her is pretty cute. Maybe Clara actually feels invested in her dad’s business. What if taking this summer seriously means that Clara has to leave her old self behind? <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/35791907-the-way-you-make-me-feel">[goodreads]</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><u>June 2018</u></span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1511975363l/36234069.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="297" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1511975363l/36234069.jpg" width="125" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Part-Time Lover by Lauren Blakeley</span><br />
<b>About the book: </b>A sexy new standalone romance from #1 New York Times Bestselling Author Lauren Blakely!<br />
<br />
I’ll say this about Christian — he made one hell of a first impression.<br />
<br />
When I first saw the strapping man, he was doing handstands naked on a dock along the canal. His crown jewels were far more entertaining than anything else I’d seen on the boat tour, so I did what any curious woman would do — I took his photo. I might have looked at the shot a few dozen times. Little did I know I’d meet him again, a year later, at a secret garden bar in the heart of the city, where I’d learn that his mind and his mouth were even more captivating. But given the way my heart had been trampled, I wanted only a simple deal — No strings. No expectations.<br />
<br />
Our arrangement worked well enough until the day I needed a lot more from him…<br />
<br />
***<br />
<br />
Let me just say, this whole part-time lover thing was her idea. I’d have gone all-in from the start, but hey, when a gorgeous, brilliant woman invites you into her bed, and only her bed…well, I said yes.<br />
But then, one hysterical phone call from my brother later, begging me to find myself a wife so grandfather’s business stays in the family, and I need a promotion with Elise. Turns out a full-time husband suits her needs too, and a temporary marriage of convenience ought to do the trick, until we can simply untie the knot…<br />
<br />
As long as no one finds out…<br />
As long as no one gets hurt…<br />
As long as no one falls in love…<br />
<br />
But our ending was one I never saw coming. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/36234069-part-time-lover">[goodreads]</a><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br />
</i> <i>_______________________________________________________</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; clear: both; color: black; font-family: Times; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0px; orphans: 2; text-align: center; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1510611507l/32333338.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="314" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1510611507l/32333338.jpg" width="131" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Save the Date by Morgan Matson</span><br />
<b>About the book: </b>Charlie Grant’s older sister is getting married this weekend at their family home, and Charlie can’t wait—for the first time in years, all four of her older siblings will be under one roof. Charlie is desperate for one last perfect weekend, before the house is sold and everything changes. The house will be filled with jokes and games and laughs again. Making decisions about things like what college to attend and reuniting with longstanding crush Jesse Foster—all that can wait. She wants to focus on making the weekend perfect.<br />
<br />
The only problem? The weekend is shaping up to be an absolute disaster.<br />
<br />
There’s the unexpected dog with a penchant for howling, house alarm that won’t stop going off, and a papergirl with a grudge.<br />
<br />
There are the relatives who aren’t speaking, the (awful) girl her favorite brother brought home unannounced, and a missing tuxedo.<br />
<br />
Not to mention the neighbor who seems to be bent on sabotage and a storm that is bent on drenching everything. The justice of the peace is missing. The band will only play covers. The guests are all crazy. And the wedding planner’s nephew is unexpectedly, distractingly…cute.<br />
<br />
Over the course of three ridiculously chaotic days, Charlie will learn more than she ever expected about the family she thought she knew by heart. And she’ll realize that sometimes, trying to keep everything like it was in the past means missing out on the future. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/32333338-save-the-date">[goodreads]</a><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br />
</i> <i>_______________________________________________________</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; clear: both; color: black; font-family: Times; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0px; orphans: 2; text-align: center; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1512513783l/36449971.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="317" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1512513783l/36449971.jpg" width="133" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">The Last Summer of the Garrett Girls by Jessica Spotswood</span><br />
<b>About the book:</b> One summer will challenge everything the Garrett sisters thought they knew about themselves—and each other.<br />
<br />
Kat lands the lead in the community theater’s summer play, but the drama spills offstage when her ex and his new girlfriend are cast too. Can she get revenge by staging a new romance of her own?<br />
<br />
Bea and her boyfriend are heading off to college together in the fall, just like they planned when they started dating. But Bea isn’t sure she wants the same things as when she was thirteen…<br />
<br />
Vi has a crush on the girl next door. It makes her happy and nervous, but Cece has a boyfriend…so it’s not like her feelings could ever be reciprocated, right?<br />
<br />
As the oldest, Des shoulders a lot of responsibility for her family and their independent bookstore. Except it’s hard to dream big when she’s so busy taking care of everyone else.<br />
<br />
Told through four alternating points of view, readers will laugh, cry, and fall in love alongside the Garrett girls in this captivating new novel from Jessica Spotswood. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/36449971-the-last-summer-of-the-garrett-girls">[goodreads]</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><u>July 2018</u></span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1507657523l/35692932.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="315" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1507657523l/35692932.jpg" width="132" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">The Real Deal by Lauren Blakeley</span><br />
<b>About the book: </b>Sophie Kinsella meets Jennifer Crusie in your next favorite romantic comedy, THE REAL DEAL!<br />
<br />
April Hamilton wants you to know she hasn’t been on Craigslist since that time she sold her futon after college. She doesn’t even spend that much time online. And even if she did, she would not be looking up personal ads. But going home alone for her family's summer reunion is an invitation for every single relative to butt into her personal life. She simply can’t handle another blind date with the butcher, the baker or the candlestick maker from her hometown. So when she finds the Craigslist ad for a boyfriend-for-hire, she’s ready to pay to play.<br />
<br />
Heading Home and Need a Buffer? I’m the REAL DEAL.<br />
<br />
Theo Banks has been running from the past for years. He’s this close to finally settling all his debts, and one more job as a boyfriend-for-hire will do the trick. He’s no gigolo. Please. He’s something of an actor, and he knows how to slip into any role, including pretending to be April’s new beau -- the bad boy with the heart of gold.<br />
<br />
Even if it means sleeping in close quarters in that tiny little bed in her parents’ inn. Even if it means spinning tales of a romance that starts to feel all too true. What neither one of them counts on is that amid the egg toss, the arm wrestling, and a fierce game of Lawn Twister that has them tangled up together, they might be feeling the real deal.<br />
<br />
She only wanted to show her family once and for all that she had no need to settle down.<br />
<br />
He didn’t expect to have the time of his life at her parent’s home.<br />
<br />
They didn’t plan on loving every single second of the game.<br />
<br />
But can a masterful game of pretend result in true love? <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/35692932-the-real-deal">[goodreads]</a><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br />
</i> <i>_______________________________________________________</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; clear: both; color: black; font-family: Times; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0px; orphans: 2; text-align: center; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1506446274l/35795898.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="317" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1506446274l/35795898.jpg" width="133" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">The Impossibility of Us by Katy Upperman</span><br />
<b>About the book:</b> The last thing Elise wants is to start her senior year in a new town. But after her brother’s death in Afghanistan, she and her mother move from San Francisco to a sleepy coastal village.<br />
<br />
When Elise meets Mati, they quickly discover how much they have in common. Mati is new to town too, visiting the U.S. with his family. Over the course of the summer, their relationship begins to blossom, and what starts out as a friendship becomes so much more.<br />
<br />
But as Elise and Mati grow closer, her family becomes more and more uncomfortable with their relationship, and their concerns all center on one fact—Mati is Afghan.<br />
<br />
Beautifully written, utterly compelling, and ultimately hopeful, THE IMPOSSIBILITY OF US asks—how brave can you be when your relationship is questioned by everyone you love? <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/35795898-the-impossibility-of-us">[goodreads]</a><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
_______________________________________________________</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">See something you like? Please tell me about it in the comments! In the meantime, as we all patiently wait for these fantastic looking books to be published in 2018, enter my giveaway to win a pre-order of one! Open to US & Canada residents only, must be 18 years of age, & please see my policies page for further contest rules. Good luck!</span></div>
<br />
<a class="rcptr" data-raflid="c6f35a6d80" data-template="" data-theme="classic" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/c6f35a6d80/" id="rcwidget_q9mb6tbp" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a><br />
<script src="https://widget-prime.rafflecopter.com/launch.js"></script><br />
<br />
<br />
<img align="left" height="96" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYGTxPNVhGVEXLtJzHacqN6v8oqsIngtyuVSFJR2aV3R0YM6Tu4hx6dmu6GNoqfqCCjN9biK7UyY92rU786Gpu0ZFSYs8epPcE4ZaZyQE6fEHKbQsciqf-iZ-20R51tQs3j3eogCpDcJYS/s640/sig2.png" style="border: 0pt none;" width="640" />Ginger @ GReads!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17725314423163879042noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9180446384835146464.post-30157329120966925262017-12-18T00:00:00.000-06:002017-12-18T00:00:23.058-06:00What Will You End the Year Reading?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCmvWAP0EdZ6l1a9a_FdU1h1MSjwZhPuAf9WKtN0wK8vkBNy1HJ1JtQf1zpqFg9WLLXtOj_61J933DpN85jlSB_D5k0Im2IOSfjq8LSSFgaegW6beMv39Lb_5jMJR2XvPWZ8ncBwLpuZuf/s1600/COUNTDOWN%2521.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="512" data-original-width="1024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCmvWAP0EdZ6l1a9a_FdU1h1MSjwZhPuAf9WKtN0wK8vkBNy1HJ1JtQf1zpqFg9WLLXtOj_61J933DpN85jlSB_D5k0Im2IOSfjq8LSSFgaegW6beMv39Lb_5jMJR2XvPWZ8ncBwLpuZuf/s640/COUNTDOWN%2521.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I can hardly believe the year is almost over. 2017 has been quite something, that's for sure. I set a goal to read 75 books this year and I don't know if I'll make it (though I'm going to try REALLY hard!). As I take a look at some of the books I read this year, I'm seeing a common thread: stories that made me FEEL. My emotions were all over the place, from all the swoons, to all the tears. And let's not forget the belly laughs! I read some pretty great books this year.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/user/year_in_books/2017/">Click here to see #MyYearInBooks on goodreads</a></div>
<br />
Now stands the question, which book (or books) will I end the year reading? I've always felt this question to be a big one. It can set the tone for a new year of reading ahead. If it's something insanely good, then whatever I start 2018 with has a lot to live up to. But if it's a let down, mediocre at best, I'll definitely be craving something irresistible to begin the new year reading.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF50_B7Uvz2uRQ1ooKvcl9NroM5wupmkRFjgTOuPi2ayKJ5l_PU4lPaYGd2UTjj4WH8d6DCQqTdFQqbONiEokkq-SnRCdX-MWxsclp5wy7_iJhcHd5YlGRhjA_YdXnMchdWQMknojVHAeR/s1600/IMG_2246.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF50_B7Uvz2uRQ1ooKvcl9NroM5wupmkRFjgTOuPi2ayKJ5l_PU4lPaYGd2UTjj4WH8d6DCQqTdFQqbONiEokkq-SnRCdX-MWxsclp5wy7_iJhcHd5YlGRhjA_YdXnMchdWQMknojVHAeR/s320/IMG_2246.JPG" width="320" /></a>When all else fails, I know I can always rely on my past loves: a good re-read! So that is what I am choosing to do now. I just read <i>Blue-Eyed Devil</i> by Lisa Kleypas (for the 3rd time). Two words: Hardy Cates. This story never grows old for me; I think it might actually get better each time I read it. It's the second in a series of four books, though I guess you could read each as a standalone, because the stories are about separate characters; however, you may not fully understand the characters because they develop a bit more in each novel. Still though, this one is by far the best of the bunch, in my opinion.<br />
<br />
My current read is a 2018 release that I've been waiting to read closer to its publication date, but as you can see.. that didn't work out so well (it pubs in April 2018). So far I am REALLY enjoying <i>Love Songs & Other Lies</i> by Jessica Pennington. I can already tell that fans of Emery Lord will devour this one. It's a mix of swoony YA romance set against a music backdrop over the course of a summer on the road, with flashbacks thrown in. The characters grabbed me from the first few pages, and the plot line has my attention as well. I'm definitely on board for this one.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim414pfEcGU9wbmi8aPlvzsl3f0FySYcYxDoQr4wzvb9ROZPqh8TCxNdLJO8RTdptpCE3qvcGuxaH-EFcITuKEDtOtuSPZIpoOzPiaP8sZRdwvBZCsIj1p0FpxcGZLc-hsBrPMbHrkO_bO/s1600/IMG_2265.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim414pfEcGU9wbmi8aPlvzsl3f0FySYcYxDoQr4wzvb9ROZPqh8TCxNdLJO8RTdptpCE3qvcGuxaH-EFcITuKEDtOtuSPZIpoOzPiaP8sZRdwvBZCsIj1p0FpxcGZLc-hsBrPMbHrkO_bO/s320/IMG_2265.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Soon I'll be trying to decide what to read next. A holiday romance before Christmas passes? All the novellas so I can reach my reading goal? More re-reads of books that I know will be a sure bet? So many decisions! Tell me, what are your plans for choosing the books you'll end the year reading? Or, does this not even phase you, and you just read whatever because January is just another month?<br />
<br />
If you have some really great recs that I should end 2017 with, feel free to let me know in the comments. I'm always up for those! And please let me know what you're currently reading and/or planning to end 2017 with. Here's to another great year of literature, friends!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<img align="left" height="96" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYGTxPNVhGVEXLtJzHacqN6v8oqsIngtyuVSFJR2aV3R0YM6Tu4hx6dmu6GNoqfqCCjN9biK7UyY92rU786Gpu0ZFSYs8epPcE4ZaZyQE6fEHKbQsciqf-iZ-20R51tQs3j3eogCpDcJYS/s640/sig2.png" style="border: 0pt none;" width="640" />Ginger @ GReads!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17725314423163879042noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9180446384835146464.post-80736133682932970002017-12-06T00:00:00.000-06:002017-12-06T00:00:39.141-06:00Berkley Bookmas: The Wedding Date + a Giveaway!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuM4qLHMsIOl8EliiApTTRIDb4q8K0b7GJkfQWVcOrbVYPlvq9-ojgaPuzz3mpJJtNv0XlO2k-hmY6WAbyLaJ9FwqcRhflTtzVASEjrSI-Th4p509kbO8eMThANPH4zJGVgy4-KLWdxDXP/s1600/BerkleyBookmasBanner_v5.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="1500" height="192" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuM4qLHMsIOl8EliiApTTRIDb4q8K0b7GJkfQWVcOrbVYPlvq9-ojgaPuzz3mpJJtNv0XlO2k-hmY6WAbyLaJ9FwqcRhflTtzVASEjrSI-Th4p509kbO8eMThANPH4zJGVgy4-KLWdxDXP/s640/BerkleyBookmasBanner_v5.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I am so excited to participate in Berkley Bookmas and I'm hosting an excerpt from Jasmine Guillory's The Wedding Date today! Y'all know how much I love this book and how much I've been singing its praises (& it's not even out yet!!), so obviously I jumped on the opportunity to promote this book with the help of one of my favorite publishing teams, Berkley Romance.<br />
<br />
Berkley Bookmas is chock full of exclusive content from authors like exclusive excerpts, deleted scenes, author recipes and more! Check out the calendar of events below:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcv6_u1EJ6MOuTeCJNJ4DvqDMSIZrDMLcYHc7gN4yJmH101akkVyEmVUsBkXyf_A7dCtZG2Jc3CO-6wOQ7dlDYgxcKgvnKDTCfpLSyqByu3gNB7UA1Gx6ddKePRVSOCnHwEmtOkh6GXkzf/s1600/Berkley+Bookmas+Calendar.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="485" data-original-width="1290" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcv6_u1EJ6MOuTeCJNJ4DvqDMSIZrDMLcYHc7gN4yJmH101akkVyEmVUsBkXyf_A7dCtZG2Jc3CO-6wOQ7dlDYgxcKgvnKDTCfpLSyqByu3gNB7UA1Gx6ddKePRVSOCnHwEmtOkh6GXkzf/s640/Berkley+Bookmas+Calendar.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Here's a sneak peek at a scene from the book, one that I really loved! How much are you going to want to read this story just from this??!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvgsz04k5TSKQx-CALxdBCF6-3FV3skrp0uAYt5pi6FpS_sEBj_48IKNCAfY-JDDjcyYLA6xRRXQOSzRb2GMVZ8b-U8z-MBOXTVwX_TxwRFypHlgU_nHbC4a60SFMG-l8EeB5vUdfhjHbg/s1600/9780399587665.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvgsz04k5TSKQx-CALxdBCF6-3FV3skrp0uAYt5pi6FpS_sEBj_48IKNCAfY-JDDjcyYLA6xRRXQOSzRb2GMVZ8b-U8z-MBOXTVwX_TxwRFypHlgU_nHbC4a60SFMG-l8EeB5vUdfhjHbg/s320/9780399587665.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<blockquote>
<b>THE WEDDING DATE by Jasmine Guillory</b><br />
<b>Berkley Bookmas Excerpt</b><br />
<br />
(At the rehearsal dinner)<br />
<br />
Boy, was it nice when this guy touched her. The hand-holding was particularly great. She felt like she was back in high school, except instead of the nerdy girl that everyone liked in that generic way, she was the girl holding hands with the hot guy at the party. She’d always wondered how that had felt.<br />
<br />
News flash: it felt awesome.<br />
<br />
She fought back her smile before she remembered that she was supposed to be besotted with Drew, so she let it beam as they walked through the party and up to the bar.<br />
<br />
“Full bar, thank God. What’s your drink of choice?” He gestured to the bottles of alcohol along the bar with a flourish.<br />
“Tonight? Let’s start with a gin martini, please.”<br />
<br />
Drew handed over her drink and clinked it with his bourbon. They each took long sips of their drinks without breaking eye contact. Alexa glanced at an empty table in the corner and rose her eyebrows to Drew; he nodded and took her arm to steer her over there. As Drew set his glass down, a tall blond guy came over and slapped him on the back before he turned to Alexa.<br />
<br />
“So this is Alexa? So glad you’re here with Drew for the wedding,” he said, holding out his hand for her to shake.<br />
Drew put his hand on the small of her back.<br />
<br />
“Alexa, I’d like to introduce you to Josh Rogers, the groom. Josh, my girlfriend, Alexa Monroe,” Drew said, his hand stroking the small of her back in a way that made her whole body tingle. Or maybe that was the gin hitting her bloodstream. She ignored whatever it was and smiled at Josh as she shook his hand.<br />
<br />
“A pleasure to meet you, Josh. Congratulations on the wedding! I’m honored to be here.”<br />
<br />
A strawberry blonde with soft curls and a knee-length white eyelet dress walked up to them. Alexa had pegged her as the bride as soon as she’d walked into the room—who else would wear white to a rehearsal dinner? At her approach, Alexa moved closer to Drew. He picked up his drink and sipped it, but she knew he noticed, too, because he slid his arm around her waist. Damn, there was that tingle again.<br />
<br />
“Drew, is this Alexa? Alexa, I’m Molly. It’s so nice to meet you.”<br />
<br />
Molly gave her a huge smile that felt genuine, and not for the first time, Alexa wondered what the whole story was between the Molly and Drew breakup. Did Josh and Molly feel guilty for what they’d done to Drew? Did they ask him to be in the wedding to assuage their guilt?<br />
<br />
She wasn’t going to get an answer to that question right now (if ever), so her job was just to stand here next to Drew and turn on the charm. Luckily, she worked in politics; charm was her middle name.<br />
<br />
Alexa increased the wattage of her smile by at least fifty percent.<br />
<br />
“Molly, thank you so much for having me. Everything is lovely. What a wonderful choice for a rehearsal dinner. I can only imagine that the wedding will be just as beautiful.”<br />
<br />
Drew’s thumb traced circles around her hip as she and Molly exchanged bright pleasantries about the wedding, the perfect weather in the Bay Area this time of year, and Josh and Molly’s upcoming honeymoon in Hawaii. Between the sensuous feel of his touch and her now-finished martini, she was almost distracted enough not to wonder if he could detect the Spanx underneath her dress. Almost.<br />
<br />
After a few minutes, Molly glanced to the corner of the room and sighed.<br />
<br />
“My mom is signaling me; I think I have to go talk to one of my aunts. I hope to get to talk to you more later, Alexa. And you, too, Drew. Oh, and don’t forget! The hashtag is #jollymosh.” Molly smiled and glided away.</blockquote>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Here's your chance to win this amazing sweepstakes from Berkley Romance, featuring a one $100 Visa gift card, and a book/galley/bound manuscript by each of the authors participating.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://sweeps.penguinrandomhouse.com/enter/berkley-bookmas"><span style="font-size: large;">CLICK HERE TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY!!</span></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
For tomorrow’s fun, head to one of the following blogs:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
· <a href="http://www.babsbookbistro.net/">Babs Book Bistro</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
· <a href="http://dirtygirlromance.com/">Dirty Girl Romance</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
· <a href="https://asoutherngirlsbookshelf.blogspot.com/">A Southern Girl’s Bookshelf</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
· <a href="http://harlequinjunkie.com/">Harlequin Junkie</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
· <a href="http://bookbinge.com/">Book Binge</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
· <a href="http://booksandmakeup.blogspot.com/">Undeniably Book Nerdy</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
· <a href="https://thebloggergirls.com/">The Blogger Girls</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
· <a href="https://adriasromancereviews.blogspot.com/?zx=6b948613dcc19cef">Adria’s Musings and Reviews</a><br />
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbVKoZ2urWHC_rYxBoPKzeaIVfTkb8FxcKdeEgeSQ4m48UutKs529JpHSw968fMzn1DIfZJF584Mg1i9OdK2JqXf_hqUpMB6uM1wVeQOV40F9GABUoPIvSyhXEpJ3RGPY1DwHb5jUUwPdp/s1600/BerkleyBookmasInstagram_v5.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbVKoZ2urWHC_rYxBoPKzeaIVfTkb8FxcKdeEgeSQ4m48UutKs529JpHSw968fMzn1DIfZJF584Mg1i9OdK2JqXf_hqUpMB6uM1wVeQOV40F9GABUoPIvSyhXEpJ3RGPY1DwHb5jUUwPdp/s320/BerkleyBookmasInstagram_v5.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<img align="left" height="96" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYGTxPNVhGVEXLtJzHacqN6v8oqsIngtyuVSFJR2aV3R0YM6Tu4hx6dmu6GNoqfqCCjN9biK7UyY92rU786Gpu0ZFSYs8epPcE4ZaZyQE6fEHKbQsciqf-iZ-20R51tQs3j3eogCpDcJYS/s640/sig2.png" style="border: 0pt none;" width="640" />Ginger @ GReads!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17725314423163879042noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9180446384835146464.post-20998109679228515402017-11-27T00:00:00.000-06:002017-11-27T00:00:06.251-06:00My Favorite Contemps I Read in 2017: YA Edition<br />
I've read a ton of adult books this year; however, I've also read quite a few really great YA contemporaries, too. Since I already compiled <a href="http://www.greadsbooks.com/2017/11/my-favorite-romances-i-read-in-2017.html">my list of favorite adult romances I read in 2017</a>, I thought I'd feature some of my fave YA contemps I read this year as well.<br />
<br />
I had the honor of reading some incredible debut YA contemporaries this year. A few of those make my list for all time favorites, too. I can't wait to see what those authors write next. You'll see some past love authors with their latest releases throughout this post, too. Some writers just keep wow'ing me, book after book. Man, I read some really great YA contemps this year.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrUP5RfEbNNH15QeaRYRCkolYlR5uMmB6bOlHETTfGAVITNGWlaN5rxNM-1a8TCxsUUmOluBdsimU-zOVF9wp58xXhyphenhyphensBSXXA01co_x_Da3qH5MGWozkyc-FCVihiacxABQFCrDY64qDQg/s1600/2017+YA.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="200" data-original-width="600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrUP5RfEbNNH15QeaRYRCkolYlR5uMmB6bOlHETTfGAVITNGWlaN5rxNM-1a8TCxsUUmOluBdsimU-zOVF9wp58xXhyphenhyphensBSXXA01co_x_Da3qH5MGWozkyc-FCVihiacxABQFCrDY64qDQg/s1600/2017+YA.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1505671365l/32797614.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="317" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1505671365l/32797614.jpg" width="133" /></a></div>
<blockquote>
<b>Twelve Steps to Normal by Farrah Penn</b><br />
<b>About the book: </b>James Patterson presents this emotionally resonant novel that shows that while some broken things can't be put back exactly the way they were, they can be repaired and made even stronger.<br />
<br />
Kira's Twelve Steps To A Normal Life<br />
<br />
1. Accept Grams is gone.<br />
2. Learn to forgive Dad.<br />
3. Steal back ex-boyfriend from best friend...<br />
<br />
And somewhere between 1 and 12, realize that when your parent's an alcoholic, there's no such thing as "normal."<br />
<br />
When Kira's father enters rehab, she's forced to leave everything behind--her home, her best friends, her boyfriend...everything she loves. Now her father's sober (again) and Kira is returning home, determined to get her life back to normal...exactly as it was before she was sent away.<br />
<br />
But is that what Kira really wants?<br />
<br />
Life, love, and loss come crashing together in this visceral, heartfelt story by BuzzFeed writer Farrah Penn about a girl who struggles to piece together the shards of her once-normal life before his alcoholism tore it apart. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/32797614-12-steps-to-normal">[goodreads]</a></blockquote>
<i>**<u>My first thoughts after reading</u>: Kira’s story is one I feel that a lot of teens, unfortunately, can relate to. We see the aftermath of what having an alcoholic parent can do to a teenage girl’s life. The story picks up just after Kira’s dad exits his rehab therapy & attempts to re-enter Kira’s life. From the first chapter, I immediately felt the emotional journey both Kira & her dad would take me on. </i><br />
<i><br />
</i> <i>This is so much more than just a story about recovery & the effects alcoholism can have on the people that are touched by it. It’s a beautiful debut novel by someone I am so proud of. Thank you, Farrah, for sharing your words with me. </i><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1498546653l/34848136.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="314" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1498546653l/34848136.jpg" width="131" /></a></div>
<blockquote>
<b>Together at Midnight by Jennifer Castle</b><br />
<b>About the book: </b>What does it really mean to be kind . . . and why does it sometimes feel like the hardest thing in the world to do? High school senior Kendall, who just returned from a life-changing semester in Europe, and Max, who is drifting his way through a gap year before college, struggle with these questions when they witness a tragic accident in New York City during the holiday season. Racked with guilt, the two accept a dare to perform random acts of kindness to strangers. The challenge pulls these two teens, who have a history together from back home, closer and closer as they explore a vibrant city filled with other people’s stories and secrets.<br />
<br />
Kendall and Max can’t deny their growing bond, even though they both have other romantic entanglements and uncertain futures. As the clock counts down on New Year’s Eve, will they find themselves together at midnight? <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/34848136-together-at-midnight">[goodreads]</a></blockquote>
<i>**<u>My first thoughts after reading</u>: Jennifer Castle is such a quietly strong voice in the YA community today. This is my third novel of her’s to read & once again I’m wow’ed by the beauty of her storytelling. </i><br />
<i><br />
</i> <i>For fans of books set in New York City, throw in the holiday season, plus a task at hand for two misguided teens — you’ll want to read this novel!</i><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1498733248l/33799302.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="315" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1498733248l/33799302.jpg" width="132" /></a></div>
<blockquote>
<b>Top Ten by Katie Cotugno</b><br />
<b>About the book: </b>Ryan McCullough and Gabby Hart are the unlikeliest of friends. Introverted, anxious Gabby would rather do literally anything than go to a party. Ryan is a star hockey player who can get any girl he wants—and does, frequently. But against all odds, they became not only friends, but each other’s favorite person. Now, as they face high school graduation, they can’t help but take a moment to reminisce and, in their signature tradition, make a top ten list—counting down the top ten moments of their friendship: <br />
<br />
10. Where to begin? Maybe the night we met.<br />
9. Then there was our awkward phase.<br />
8. When you were in love with me but never told me…<br />
7. Those five months we stopped talking were the hardest of my life.<br />
6. Through terrible fights…<br />
5. And emotional makeups.<br />
4. You were there for me when I got my heart broken.<br />
3. …but at times, you were also the one breaking it.<br />
2. Above all, you helped me make sense of the world.<br />
1. Now, as we head off to college—how am I possibly going to live without you? <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/33799302-top-ten">[goodreads]</a></blockquote>
<i>**<u>My first thoughts after reading</u>: That was a one-sitting, read it in a day kind of book. Loved it!!</i><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1475234813l/10434679.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="310" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1475234813l/10434679.jpg" width="130" /></a></div>
<blockquote>
<b>Words in Deep Blue by Cath Crowley</b><br />
<b>About the book: </b>This is a love story. It's the story of a second-hand bookshop called Howling Books where people leave letters to strangers, or those they love, or want to love, between the pages of books in the Letter Library.<br />
<br />
Henry Jones and Rachel Sweetie are best friends. Or they were. Before Rachel moved away to the sea. Now, she's back, grieving for her brother Cal who drowned in the sea that he loved.<br />
<br />
Rachel loves Henry. Henry loves Amy. Amy loves Amy but is happy for Henry to love her too.<br />
<br />
This is a book about books. About the power of literature to cradle our past, present and future selves. It's about how we leave ourselves behind when we die. How we leave our histories in the things we love - like books. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/10434679-words-in-deep-blue">[goodreads]</a></blockquote>
<i>**<u>My first thoughts after reading</u>: Now I remember why I love Aussie YA contemps so much. This was spectacular!</i><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1496268162l/32703429.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="314" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1496268162l/32703429.jpg" width="131" /></a></div>
<blockquote>
<b>The Secret History of Us by Jessi Kirby</b><br />
<b>About the book: </b>A near drowning…a coma for days…and then…<br />
<br />
Olivia wakes up to realize she doesn’t remember. Not just the accident—but anything from the last four years. Not high school. Not Matt, the guy who is apparently her boyfriend. Not the reason she and Jules are no longer friends. Nothing.<br />
<br />
That’s when it hits her—the accident may not have taken her life, but it took something just as vital: her memory. The harder she tires to remember things, the foggier everything gets, and figuring out who she is feels impossible when everyone keeps telling her who she was.<br />
<br />
But then there’s Walker. The guy who saved her. The one who broke her ribs pumping life back into her lungs. The hardened boy who keeps his distance despite Olivia’s attempts to thank him.<br />
<br />
With her feelings growing for Walker, tensions rising with Matt, and secrets she can’t help but feel are being kept from her, Olivia must find her place in a life she doesn’t even remember living. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/32703429-the-secret-history-of-us">[goodreads]</a></blockquote>
<i>**<u>My first thoughts after reading it</u>: Just when I think I've read my favorite Jessi Kirby novel, she comes out with something new to fall in love with. The concept behind this story is so very intriguing dealing with trauma & memory loss. Kirby handles it with grace & beauty. I loved these characters, this setting, & the journey this novel takes you on. Well done, Jessi!</i><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1473268908l/31145133.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="317" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1473268908l/31145133.jpg" width="133" /></a></div>
<blockquote>
<b>I Believe in a Thing Called Love by Maurene Goo</b><br />
<b>About the book:</b> Desi Lee believes anything is possible if you have a plan. That’s how she became student body president. Varsity soccer star. And it’s how she’ll get into Stanford. But—she’s never had a boyfriend. In fact, she’s a disaster in romance, a clumsy, stammering humiliation magnet whose botched attempts at flirting have become legendary with her friends. <br />
<br />
So when the hottest human specimen to have ever lived walks into her life one day, Desi decides to tackle her flirting failures with the same zest she’s applied to everything else in her life. She finds guidance in the Korean dramas her father has been obsessively watching for years—where the hapless heroine always seems to end up in the arms of her true love by episode ten. It’s a simple formula, and Desi is a quick study. <br />
<br />
Armed with her “K Drama Steps to True Love,” Desi goes after the moody, elusive artist Luca Drakos—and boat rescues, love triangles, and staged car crashes ensue. But when the fun and games turn to true feels, Desi finds out that real love is about way more than just drama. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/31145133-i-believe-in-a-thing-called-love">[goodreads]</a></blockquote>
<i>**<u>My first thoughts after reading</u>: This book reminded me of my most favorite 90s teenage rom-coms rolled into a YA read. I loved it so!</i><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1494152180l/32078787.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="314" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1494152180l/32078787.jpg" width="131" /></a></div>
<blockquote>
<b>Once and For All by Sarah Dessen</b><br />
<b>About the book: </b>As bubbly as champagne and delectable as wedding cake, Once and for All, Sarah Dessen's thirteenth novel, is set in the world of wedding planning, where crises are routine. <br />
<br />
Louna, daughter of famed wedding planner Natalie Barrett, has seen every sort of wedding: on the beach, at historic mansions, in fancy hotels and clubs. Perhaps that's why she's cynical about happily-ever-after endings, especially since her own first love ended tragically. When Louna meets charming, happy-go-lucky serial dater Ambrose, she holds him at arm's length. But Ambrose isn't about to be discouraged, now that he's met the one girl he really wants. <br />
<br />
Sarah Dessen’s many, many fans will adore her latest, a richly satisfying, enormously entertaining story that has everything—humor, romance, and an ending both happy and imperfect, just like life itself. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/32078787-once-and-for-all">[goodreads]</a></blockquote>
<i>**<u>My first thoughts after reading</u>: That was good. So so so good!! The complexity of Dessen's writing comes back into focus with this one, reminding me why I love her storytelling so very much.</i><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1495992139l/35247769.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="313" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1495992139l/35247769.jpg" width="131" /></a></div>
<blockquote>
<b>Always and Forever, Lara Jean by Jenny Han</b><br />
<b>About the book: </b>Lara Jean is having the best senior year. And there’s still so much to look forward to: a class trip to New York City, prom with her boyfriend Peter, Beach Week after graduation, and her dad’s wedding to Ms. Rothschild. Then she’ll be off to college with Peter, at a school close enough for her to come home and bake chocolate chip cookies on the weekends.<br />
<br />
Life couldn’t be more perfect!<br />
<br />
At least, that’s what Lara Jean thinks…until she gets some unexpected news.<br />
<br />
Now the girl who dreads change must rethink all her plans—but when your heart and your head are saying two different things, which one should you listen to? <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/35247769-always-and-forever-lara-jean">[goodreads]</a></blockquote>
<i>**<u>My first thoughts after reading</u>: I don't know if I'll ever be ready to say goodbye to these characters, but that was a pretty good send off. Well done, Jenny Han, well done.</i><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1474998295l/30038906.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="314" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1474998295l/30038906.jpg" width="131" /></a></div>
<blockquote>
<b>The Names They Gave Us by Emery Lord</b><br />
<b>About the book:</b> When it all falls apart, who can you believe in?<br />
<br />
Everything is going right for Lucy Hansson, until her mom’s cancer reappears. Just like that, Lucy breaks with all the constants in her life: her do-good boyfriend, her steady faith, even her longtime summer church camp job.<br />
<br />
Instead, Lucy lands at a camp for kids who have been through tough times. As a counselor, Lucy is in over her head and longs to be with her parents across the lake. But that’s before she gets to know her coworkers, who are as loving and unafraid as she so desperately wants to be.<br />
<br />
It’s not just new friends that Lucy discovers at camp—more than one old secret is revealed along the way. In fact, maybe there’s much more to her family and her faith than Lucy ever realized. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/30038906-the-names-they-gave-us">[goodreads]</a></blockquote>
<i>**<u>My first thoughts after reading</u>: This is Emery Lord at her finest. Her ability to write characters with such depth, emotion, and authenticity shines brightest with this novel. I found myself particularly drawn to Lucy's story for personal reasons, yet I did not expect to read words that felt as though they'd been pulled from my most intimate experiences in dealing with cancer and sick mothers. There's something to be said about an author when they have the ability to do that. The struggles Lucy endures is supported by the unexpected relationships she finds in the least likely places. It's in these moments that her darkest corners begin to shed light, creating a path she didn't quite anticipate, realizing fear does not have to lead her down it, and that love can guide her there as well.</i><br />
<i><br />
</i> <i>I can't quite recommend this book enough. It's so much more than literature. It's a gift that's been given to me, one I didn't know I was looking for, but am so grateful to have received.</i><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1466543204l/30312700.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="317" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1466543204l/30312700.jpg" width="133" /></a></div>
<blockquote>
<b>Alex, Approximately by Jenn Bennett</b><br />
<b>About the book:</b> The one guy Bailey Rydell can’t stand is actually the boy of her dreams—she just doesn’t know it yet.<br />
<br />
Classic movie fan Bailey “Mink” Rydell has spent months crushing on a witty film geek she only knows online as Alex. Two coasts separate the teens until Bailey moves in with her dad, who lives in the same California surfing town as her online crush.<br />
<br />
Faced with doubts (what if he’s a creep in real life—or worse?), Bailey doesn’t tell Alex she’s moved to his hometown. Or that she’s landed a job at the local tourist-trap museum. Or that she’s being heckled daily by the irritatingly hot museum security guard, Porter Roth—a.k.a. her new archnemesis. But life is whole lot messier than the movies, especially when Bailey discovers that tricky fine line between hate, love, and whatever it is she’s starting to feel for Porter.<br />
<br />
And as the summer months go by, Bailey must choose whether to cling to a dreamy online fantasy in Alex or take a risk on an imperfect reality with Porter. The choice is both simpler and more complicated than she realizes, because Porter Roth is hiding a secret of his own: Porter is Alex…Approximately. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/30312700-alex-approximately">[goodreads]</a></blockquote>
<i>**<u>My first thoughts after reading</u>: This lived up to all my expectations + more. Jenn Bennett is now on my list of auto-buy others. I loved the messy characters, the rich setting, and the irresistible charm within this storyline. It is #SuchAGingerRead.</i><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1496274486l/31449227.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="314" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1496274486l/31449227.jpg" width="131" /></a></div>
<b>Ramona Blue by Julie Murphy</b><br />
<b>About the book:</b> Ramona was only five years old when Hurricane Katrina changed her life forever.<br />
<br />
Since then, it’s been Ramona and her family against the world. Standing over six feet tall with unmistakable blue hair, Ramona is sure of three things: she likes girls, she’s fiercely devoted to her family, and she knows she’s destined for something bigger than the trailer she calls home in Eulogy, Mississippi. But juggling multiple jobs, her flaky mom, and her well-meaning but ineffectual dad forces her to be the adult of the family. Now, with her sister, Hattie, pregnant, responsibility weighs more heavily than ever.<br />
<br />
The return of her childhood friend Freddie brings a welcome distraction. Ramona’s friendship with the former competitive swimmer picks up exactly where it left off, and soon he’s talked her into joining him for laps at the pool. But as Ramona falls in love with swimming, her feelings for Freddie begin to shift too, which is the last thing she expected. With her growing affection for Freddie making her question her sexual identity, Ramona begins to wonder if perhaps she likes girls and guys or if this new attraction is just a fluke. Either way, Ramona will discover that, for her, life and love are more fluid than they seem. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/31449227-ramona-blue">[goodreads]</a><br />
<i><br />
</i> <i>**<u>My first thoughts after reading</u>: If I could, I would give this book all the stars. I have admired Julie Murphy's work since her debut, but something about this particular story really clings to my heart. </i><br />
<i><br />
</i> <i>In a world where people are so quick to place labels & cast judgements, this novel is every bit needed & appreciated. I love Ramona & I love her little town of beautiful characters. </i><br />
<i><br />
</i> <i>Add this novel to your must read list & go ahead & order it. I'm already doing the same.</i><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1482123047l/33415072.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="317" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1482123047l/33415072.jpg" width="133" /></a></div>
<blockquote>
<b>The Last Thing You Said by Sara Biren</b><br />
<b>About the book:</b> Last summer, Lucy’s and Ben’s lives changed in an instant. One moment, they were shyly flirting on a lake raft, finally about to admit their feelings to each other after years of yearning. In the next, Trixie—Lucy’s best friend and Ben’s sister—was gone, her heart giving out during a routine swim. And just like that, the idyllic world they knew turned upside down, and the would-be couple drifted apart, swallowed up by their grief. Now it’s a year later in their small lake town, and as the anniversary of Trixie’s death looms, Lucy and Ben’s undeniable connection pulls them back together. They can’t change what happened the day they lost Trixie, but the summer might finally bring them closer to healing—and to each other. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/33415072-the-last-thing-you-said">[goodreads]</a></blockquote>
<i><br /></i>
<i>**<u>My first thoughts after reading</u>: With a slow start, I was anxious to see where this book would take me. Never did I imagine I'd lose myself at the lake, on a hot summer day, caught somewhere between grief & hope. This is the type of story that will creep up on you & fill you with overwhelming emotions. I love contemporary YA that has that effect on me. </i><br />
<i><br />
</i> <i>Oh this book, friends, add it to your TBR list!</i><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1499075493l/31145039.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="317" height="200" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1499075493l/31145039.jpg" width="133" /></a></div>
<blockquote>
<b>Kissing Max Holden by Katy Upperman</b><br />
<b>About the book:</b> Kissing Max Holden was a terrible idea...<br />
<br />
After his father has a life-altering stroke, Max Holden isn't himself. As his long-time friend, Jillian Eldridge only wants to help him, but she doesn't know how. When Max climbs through her window one night, Jill knows that she shouldn't let him kiss her. But she can't resist, and when they're caught in the act by her dad, Jill swears it'll never happen again. Because kissing Max Holden is a terrible idea.<br />
<br />
With a new baby sibling on the way, her parents fighting all the time, and her dream of culinary school up in the air, Jill starts spending more and more time with Max. And even though her father disapproves and Max still has a girlfriend, not kissing Max is easier said than done. Will Jill follow her heart and allow their friendship to blossom into something more, or will she listen to her head and stop kissing Max Holden once and for all? <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/31145039-kissing-max-holden">[goodreads]</a></blockquote>
<i>**<u>My first thoughts after reading</u>: At first glance this book appears to have all the ingredients for a sweet, sugary YA contemp. However, after a few chapters the ingredients begin to marinate & simmer in a story about family, young love, & the deep emotions that can both break & bind those relationships.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Katy Upperman delivers a swoon-worthy read that will break your heart, but remind us how to mend those broken pieces, too. Add this one to your TBR!</i><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Did any of these books make it to your favorites list read in 2017? I hope I've added some new reads to your TBR, if not! Please let me know in the comments about some of your favorite YA contemps you've read this year.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<img align="left" height="96" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYGTxPNVhGVEXLtJzHacqN6v8oqsIngtyuVSFJR2aV3R0YM6Tu4hx6dmu6GNoqfqCCjN9biK7UyY92rU786Gpu0ZFSYs8epPcE4ZaZyQE6fEHKbQsciqf-iZ-20R51tQs3j3eogCpDcJYS/s640/sig2.png" style="border: 0pt none;" width="640" />Ginger @ GReads!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17725314423163879042noreply@blogger.com1