Here at Chapter Break, we don’t always write a full review of every book we read. Well, now we decided to do these monthly wrap-up posts with roundups of our reviews this month and mini-reviews to fill in the gaps. Enjoy!
Mini Book Reviews
Pretty sure all my books read this month are review books. Those will be linked below. Enjoy.
LOVE ON THE BRAIN: TBH, I’m mixed on this book. The setup is very similar to LOVE HYPOTHESIS, which was fab. But I think my comparing the two books took away from my enjoyment of this one. I did really enjoy the last hour – the colossal crash of Bee’s life and her figuring everything out, and actually admitting to herself that it’s ok to fight for what you want was well-written to the near-point of my crying along with Bee. I did like Levi, but felt like I didn’t get to know him as well as I wanted. A case for some chapters from the male lead character’s POV for sure here. I appreciate Hazelwood’s commitment to consensual sex (asking for permission) and discussing birth control prior to having sex. And more shout outs for women in STEM, which is certainly appreciated. Let’s call this one I liked it, but didn’t shout from the roof love it.
VERONICA RUIZ BREAKS THE BANK: Short and super fun look at Vero’s life before she meets Finlay. Not sure why it’s labelled 3.5 when it should fall in the 0.5 position in the series. I enjoyed Vero’s backstory as well as a look at her relationship with Javi. It’s pretty clear that Vero has always had the smarts to solve crimes. And get into trouble. Different narrator from the rest of Finlay’s books, which kind of makes sense (different POV) but was also a bit of a distraction. Overall enjoyable read!
SLOW DANCE: You had me at Rainbow Rowell! I always seem to find bits of myself in Rowell’s characters. And I can certainly see those hints in Shiloh and her rather antisocial tendencies. And I totally agree with having zero interest in making new friends at my age. Like the title, the romance between Shiloh and Cary is a slow burn – as in 15 years before they are both in the right place to get together. This book has a lot of feels between the characters and me as a reader. I did find both Shiloh and Cary frustrating at times as they didn’t seem to communicate well with each other at the beginning. But once they start emailing and writing back and forth (and not in person), they are able to open up about their wants and desires. Rebecca Lowman’s narration is always like a warm hug and fits well with Rowell’s storytelling. Excellent listen. And now I want to relisten to FANGIRL.
THE LOST BOOKSHOP: I waited so long for this book from the library that I forgot all about why I even put it on hold in the first place. But good news – it was great! I want to call this a warm & feel good novel about books and a magical bookstore. But it takes a super sad turn in the middle. Never fear dear readers. There are happily ever afters by the end. The novel follows three characters, with three different narrators. This makes following the story a lot easier. Of the three main characters, Martha’s story stands out for me. I really appreciated her character growth. Overall, this is creative and original. Well worth the read!
THE ORNITHOLOGIST’S FIELD GUIDE TO LOVE: I loved India Holton’s other series (Dangerous Damsels) and was excited to listen to the start of the next series. And this did not disappoint. Really, this is how I want my romance. Witty & flirty banter, Some adventure. Sassy female lead character. The idea that there may be a scandal when the male character sees her ankles while escaping down a drain pipe! Beth and Devon’s romance does move very fast, but it works here. The forced proximity really does the job of developing their relationship. A little danger doesn’t hurt! Excellent narrator in Elizabeth Knowelden as well! Overall a great listen.
WILL LEAVE THE GALAXY FOR GOOD: I’m kind of bummed that this one feels like the last in the Jacques McKeown series. I’ve enjoyed McKeown’s adventures! But this one at least has a satisfactory series ending. Plus we find out the real person behind McKeown’s facade! Lots of action, our heroes in peril, space fighting (pew pew!), evil nemeses. Even some flirting! I also love Croshaw’s narration. I think the narration truly brings this series to life. Highly recommend this series!
APPRENTICE THE VILLAIN: I liked this one. But not gushing, over the moon liked as much as I enjoyed ASSISTANT. This one is definitely a middle book. Lots of journey (which Julie would loathe!). I enjoyed the addition of the other POV’s. Getting to know the other characters was amusing. Lots more back and forth between Evie and the Villain. To the point where I wanted to shake them so they would figure out their feelings for each other. The beginning was a bit rough, as I couldn’t really recall how the last book ending (too many other books in between!). The next book isn’t expected to 2025. It’s going to be a long wait to resolve these open plot points!
Books we reviewed this month:
- [5 Aug] Mila the Maker and the 200-Piece Jigsaw Puzzle by Rachel Loftspring ★★★★½
- [6 Aug] Deus Tex Machina: The Second Calamity of QED Morningwood by Rob Witherspoon ★★★★
- [7 Aug] Blink and Glow by Raven Howell, Ann Pilicer ★★★★½
- [9 Aug] Wherever, Whenever (Hearts and Haunts Book 2) by C.J. Burright ★★★★
- [27 Aug] Jacob's Melody: Harmony in Autism by Jacqueline Diaz, Imani Maco, Stefanie Diaz ★★★★½
- [30 Aug] Rooster and Squid: Bowling Burglar by Jen Cole, Andrew Laitinen ★★★★
Don’t forget to join our Book Bingo.
Leave a Reply