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It’s time to chit-chat about the books I read this past spring. From historical fictions to romance, these books are filled with possibilities. A life we either dreamed of, try to fit into, or came back to. Here is part 1 of my spring book reviews.
*some spoilers in the reviews
When Lauren returns home after a fun hen-do, she is greeted by Michael her husband. The problem is that Lauren isn’t married. She has no idea who this man is. However, according to her friends, family, and the photos in her phone she is, in fact, married to Michael. When Michael goes into the attic to fix something, a new man comes down in his place. Lauren’s entire world is completely different. Realizing her attic is producing new husbands, Lauren tries to figure out what world she fits into. The Husbands is about finding yourself, what you want in life, and the dating game.
3.5/5 stars
Review
While I thought the concept of the book was interesting, I did think it went on a little too long. I was happy once the author switched things up a little here and there with the storyline. In a way this is a metaphor for online dating– at lest to me. How we swipe right or left everyday, picturing ourselves with different partners. How easy it is to dismiss someone for something superficial or not giving someone a chance because we think someone better is on the way. *spoilers* I wasn’t too keen on the ending, not knowing how or why this was happening. It gives no explanation and I kept reading hoping to find one. I also didn’t understand why she didn’t stay in the world where she divorced her ex. It seemed to be the most aligned with her life before this started, so I don’t know why she didn’t keep up with it. And the only excuse was because she was tired of dating and she made a fool of herself in Colorado. Overall I did find it enjoyable– it’s a unique story and interesting take on dating.
It’s the summer of 1939 and Annabel has left her life in New York to work for her uncle’s hotel, The Grand Hotel, on the Côte d’Azur. This summer is not like any other summer on the French Riviera, this is the first ever Cannes Film Festival. All of Hollywood will be at The Grand Hotel for a the month’s festivities. Annabel is hand-picked to keep an eye on two guests; a writer who is trying to stay sober and an actor who has gone rogue. While Annabel is loving the glitz and glamour of the Hollywood life, the arrival of Nazi guests causes a stir amongst the festival goers. On the brink of WWII, everyone is on edge and no one trust each other. Annabel finds herself embroiled in deception, murder, and secrets.
Review
Oh how I love a good historical fiction. The Girl from the Grand Hotel had all the makings of a great book- drama, history, glamour, mystery, and love. There were so many twist and turns that I wasn’t sure how it would end. Even though the stories were made-up, I loved how the author included famous people like F. Scott Fitzgerald and Charles Laughton. I also loved the thrill of who and who wasn’t Nazi spies. I will say I wasn’t too keen on some parts of the ending, but I loved the book overall.
5/5 stars
Nora finally gets the career break she has been hoping for. The only problem? Her career lies in the hands of NFL Derek Pender. Her ex-boyfriend from college who hates her. Nora needs this professional relationship to go as smoothly as possible so she can grow in her career as a sports agent. Derek has other plans. He wants a little revenge on the girl who broke his heart. After a wild night in Vegas, things change for them both… in a very unexpected way. The Rule Book is about second chances, believing in yourself, and allowing others to be there for you.
5/5 stars
Review
This was a cute romcom book. It’s a second chance, quirky girl and hot guy trope. It gives you all the goose bump feels you want in a romance book. I loved how the story was about both of their careers. That it was important to both of them. They supported each other through all the ups and downs. Those are the best kind of relationships. I also enjoyed Derek’s friendships. It’s nice to see men being there for each other. It was refreshing. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and think it makes for a great summer beach read.