Book Review: Nest or Invest by Enni Amanda

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Nest or Invest by Enni Amanda

A Romance Novel published by Lumi Publishing (01/25/21)

Summary: When love is not part of the plan, but opposites attract

“A man didn’t need to be a self-important jerk to have presence, or courage.” (Kindle 56%).

Shasa is a single mum fighting to preserve her neighborhood and keep a roof over her head. Mac is the real estate developer whose next big project threatens to bulldoze everything she stands for. 

Keywords:

Contemporary, Opposites Attract, Real Estate, New Zealand, Underdog, Acting, Romance, Affordable Housing, Single Parent, Eco-Warrior, Business 

My Review:

Shasa’s and Mac’s collision feels inevitable. They are both under tension (both internal and external). She’s all heart and stubborn ideals, while he’s all business and bottom lines. The way their dynamic evolves is what makes this book interesting. There’s chemistry beneath their arguments, and I loved watching the gradual shift from tension to understanding. The author did an excellent job giving both characters real depth, showing how their motivations are shaped by love and loss rather than simple good vs. evil.

The community aspect might be my favorite part, especially with the setting of New Zealand. The story captures the sense of belonging that comes with small-town life and the power of people banding together to protect what matters (even though some of them are only there for the snacks). Shasa’s devotion to her daughter and neighbors feels authentic, and the author paints her as strong yet vulnerable in a way that’s easy to root for. Mac’s transformation is largely reflected in our perceptions of him, as he has always been a good guy, but in a pinch, he has made some questionable decisions. Though I enjoyed the scenes where he interacts with Shasa’s daughter, I found it a bit unrealistic how comfortable he was with physical affection toward someone else’s child, especially given how cautious people tend to be about that today.

While the romance is sweet and emotionally satisfying, it sometimes leans more tender than sizzling. I found myself wishing for a bit more spark in their banter or physical tension earlier on. Some of the pacing dragged in the middle, especially in the community planning sections, which occasionally felt more procedural than personal. A few side characters were charming but underused, and I wanted more of their humor and heart to balance the heavier moments.

Overall, the book delivers a well-written, grounded love story with charm and purpose. It’s not just about two people finding each other. It’s about redefining success, love, and what it means to build a home. 

This novel was published by Lumi Publishing on 01/25/2021 and is available on Amazon here.

TL;DR Star Rating: 4.0

Links for more information

Goodreads

48 Hours in New York City – From New York, With Love – Hugh Jackman

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I think we heard Empire State of Mind 50 times during our quick 2-night trip to New York City. There is a soundtrack and a smell to NYC that is different from my last visit in January of 2017 (with my mom to watch my sister perform). During that trip in 2017, we visited Zabar’s, Kismat Indian in Washington Heights, Thai Sea in Brooklyn, Donut X, Donut Pub, Carwash Donuts, Carlos Bakery, Rue, and a rooftop bar. This visit (8 years later), we snacked our way around Manhattan before and after watching Hugh Jackman perform.

We planned our trip around seeing Hugh Jackman’s “From New York, With Love” show at Radio City in New York. We had lovely seats in ORCH 3 that were not too far back from the stage. I watched the stage during the show and not the side-mounted televisions that were zoomed in on Hugh Jackman and the other performers. The seats are quite comfortable and just large enough to feel adequate for most people. The orchestra sloped gently, and the stage was elevated so I could see without the row in front of us getting in my view. The venue seats ~6000, and my main comment is that there are not enough restrooms! There are four levels of restrooms, and the lines were halfway down the hall for some of them 15 minutes before the show. There were only 6 stalls in the mezzanine bathroom I was able to use before the show started.

Hugh Jackman’s show itself was great! We went to the matinee on the last day of performances for this show. He was personable, charming, and funny. There was a good mix of songs throughout the show (with songs from The Greatest Showman to Music Man to Les Mis). Though he spends an entire short piece jump roping (as a fun spoof of the Deadpool and Wolverine movie’s NSYNC dance), he is not doing as much moving around/dancing. For one of the songs (Never Enough), there was a guest singer. Kate Hudson also came out, and she and Hugh did a few songs from their upcoming Neil Diamond movie. Clearly, Hugh Jackman is talented, and this was a super-fun show to watch live.

🥂 Bar 54
Rooftop bars are one of my favorite activities in a new city. I looked for one within walking distance of our hotel near Times Square, that took reservations, and had good reviews for the views. Reservations were easy, and while the glass barrier means you can’t look straight down, the vibe is still worth it as a rooftop bar. A glass of champagne and a cocktail set us back approximately $67, including gratuity. There is supposedly a time limit to the table reservation, but we were not hurried at all by the waitstaff. It was a very relaxed time, and it was gorgeous outside in early October.

🍗 Dave & Buster’s
We booked a table to watch the UFC fights on Saturday night. They have plenty of TVs. When we arrived, they sat us in front of one that wasn’t currently showing what we came for, and it took them 20-ish minutes to switch it over. By the time the main fights were on, almost every TV was playing UFC. Service was great. Food was okay. Of the two finger foods we ordered (Philly egg rolls and boneless wings), they were mildly overcooked, dry, and overpriced. You’re paying for the space, not the food.

🍕 F&F Pizza, Brooklyn
Recommended by Babish (YouTuber), this pizza spot is in Brooklyn. We accidentally booked a table at the full restaurant next door (thanks, Google), but they let us leave our reservation and head next door for slices. We ordered clam, pepperoni, cheese, and Partanna. The Partanna was our favorite, though the clam slice was unexpectedly delicious. A chewier crust, great flavor, and solid prices ($4–$7 per slice) make this one worth the trip.

🍕 Joe’s Pizza
A must for classic NY-style slices. The OG location was not ready with slices when they opened, so we hit the Times Square spot instead. The line was just outside the door when we arrived before noon. Everything smelled delicious! We got a slice each of cheese, pepperoni, and white. Solid choice for NY-style pizza.

🍜 Ichiran Ramen
This was the priciest Ichiran we’ve ever been to, and not the best quality. The setup included privacy dividers we couldn’t remove, but we were seated side by side. The matcha pudding was a fun menu addition that we tried, but overall, not quite worth the $79 tab or 45-minute wait for two bowls of ramen, drinks, and a dessert.

🍩 I’m Donut?
We went all in here, ordering eight donuts (Pistachio white chocolate donut, custard donut, PBJ donut, Caramel Espresso Cream Donut, Sake Cream Donut, Matcha Cream Donut, Scrambled Eggs Donut) and a matcha latte. Fortunately, the donuts are not too large, but 8 is too many to eat in one sitting for two people. I would go back for the Matcha cream donut again and again. It was some of the best matcha I’ve had in a pastry. The scrambled egg donut was a trip. Definitely worth a try, but far from your standard donut flavor. The line was managed well outside, and the inside is cute and appealing. Pricey but memorable.

🥪 Katz’s Deli
I’ll have what she’s having at Katz’s Deli. This is a confusing place to walk into for the first time! They hand you a little ticket when you walk up, and you join a line in front of the deli counter and wait your turn to put in your order. They cut your meat and build your sandwiches at the deli counter, and then tag your ticket with what you ordered. You pay at the exit (with cash) or in the back (with a credit card). The place is full of really fun décor and plenty of tables. It can get crowded here, but if you stop by in the morning early enough, you won’t be waiting long in line and will probably have plenty of options for a table. Sandwiches are large (easy to share) and priced accordingly. We tried a pastrami sandwich, a half egg salad sandwich with a cup of split pea soup, and got it with a can of soda for ~$75.

🍪 Levain Bakery (NoHo)
Soft, thick, and gooey cookies that are everything social media promised. I’m team chewy cookie, but even I had to admit these were impressive. The chocolate chip walnut is their OG flavor.

🥐 Paris Baguette
A quick breakfast stop that felt calm amid the city rush. The mocha was the least sweet mocha I’ve ever had, but the pastry cases were stacked high and looked appealing.

Since my last visit to NYC, transportation has gotten easier now that you can tap and pay using your phone. Prices have gone up minimally for public transit. $2.90 for a single tap vs. $2.50 last time I was in NYC. $8.50 for the airtran to/from JFK. $8.25 for the LIRR to JFK. We took one Uber from Brooklyn’s F&F pizza to our hotel in Times Square for $44. Our Delta flights were ~$400/each round-trip in the 2-seater exit row (twice as expensive as my flight last time but from a different city). We spent ~$500 on food and snacks – a lot for a quick trip, but not too much considering all the places we tried and all the food we ate. Travel is always more expensive than staying home, and there are more costs than I expect every time we travel, but prices seem reasonable for NYC (hotel ~500/night downtown near Times Square, orchestra seat ticket ~$340 at Radio City, $30 for a souvenir t-shirt, ~$5 for a nice slice of pizza).

Some other things we noted during the trip… The Hop on/Hop Off buses always looked full, with a line down the block to get on. I’m not sure you’d be able to get a seat if you got off and wanted to get back on. I didn’t see anyone smoking cigarettes (smelled Nicotine only once), but saw multiple people smoking weed (several times in the subway). I expected more lines at some of the places we went for snacks/food, but we never waited very long in lines (the longest was for Ichiran). Things/food were both more expensive and less expensive than I expected in comparison to Austin food/merch/travel expenses.

Book Review: Lost and Found: The Misadventures of a Reluctant Trekker by Donna Abel

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Lost and Found: The Misadventures of a Reluctant Trekker by Donna Abel

A Chick-Lit Travel Fiction Novel published (07/16/25)

I received an Advanced Review Copy (or ARC) on Reedsy Discovery

Summary:

“Planning, practice, and preparation make for high performance.”

Fiercely independent businesswoman Samantha O’Sullivan finds her perfectly polished world unraveling after burnout, grief, and a drunken bidding war land her on a ten-day trek through Vietnam. Swapping stilettos for hiking boots, she stumbles through laugh-out-loud training fails, inner battles with her self-critical alter ego “Karen,” and a tangled web of work drama, exes, and unexpected friendships. As she navigates blisters, betrayal, and emotional baggage, Samantha discovers healing, forgiveness, and a second chance at love in this witty, heartfelt tale of getting lost to find yourself.

Keywords:

Grief, self-discovery, resilience, friendship, forgiveness, second chances, trek, training, hike, Vietnam, charity hike

My Review:

This story is perfectly plotted, with every beat landing exactly where it should. The pacing is tight, and the blend of internal and external conflict keeps things engaging throughout. Samantha, the main character, feels refreshingly real, especially in how she wrestles with self-doubt. I loved that she gives a name to her inner critic—Karen—which adds both humor and emotional weight to her internal dialogue, making her struggles relatable and keeping the tone upbeat.

The writing style is conversational yet polished, with a touch of humor that shines through Samantha’s narration. Her mindset is front and center, emotionally self-aware, and her truths land plainly and honestly, with just enough levity to keep the tone engaging and accessible.

Although the plot revolves around the series of events that lead to a spur-of-the-moment charity trek bid and the preparation for that journey (as well as the actual few days in Vietnam), it’s a story about Sam’s symbolic journey through grief, healing, and rediscovery. In a way, we’re all preparing for our own version of a monumental task, and it was gratifying to walk with Sam on hers, experiencing her growth and resilience.

I also appreciate that there were subplots that gave this book another layer of complexity. Even though this book is on the shorter end, it felt complete and thoughtfully constructed. That said, the diary entries at the end didn’t work for me. They felt like a recap I didn’t need. The story was already complete, and retelling it in another format did not add to the storytelling.

On the other hand, one of my favorite little surprises was Samantha’s Official Trek Training Progress Chart—a fun, quirky detail that paired perfectly with the tone of the book and ended things on a lighter, playful note.

If you enjoy introspective, tightly written contemporary fiction with quippy characters, this one is definitely worth reading.

This novel was published on 07/16/25 and is available on Amazon here.

TL;DR Star Rating: 4.00

Links for more information:

Goodreads

Book Review: Perfect Plans by J. T. Tierney

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Perfect Plans by J. T. Tierney

A Contemporary Rom-Com Novel published by Curtiss Street Press (08/12/25)

I received an Advanced Review Copy (or ARC) on Reedsy Discovery

Summary:

“I’m beginning to see that human variables, though messier, have their own kind of structure. Like snowflakes—unique, ephemeral, and shaped by invisible principles.”

Ryan Porter sees the world through spreadsheets and systems—thanks to a childhood spent in an Arctic research station with scientist parents. People? Still confusing. When he starts working at a chaotic New York event-planning company, he’s thrown into a world of bizarre clients and unpredictable drama. Sofie Chen, his coworker, is his total opposite—intuitive, people-smart, and quick on her feet. As they deal with event disasters and office messes, they both start to question how they see the world—and each other.

Keywords:

Romance, Rom-Com, New York, Data, Convention Planning, Event Planning, Rivalry, Ex

My Review:

The very first sentence was a strong hook, and I couldn’t put the book down from there. The story pulled me in with its compelling plot, sharp dialogue, and a pair of main characters (the two love interests) who feel mismatched and yet absolutely perfect for each other.

Ryan is the human embodiment of a spreadsheet—precise and data-driven. If a computer and Mr. Darcy had a baby who was raised in a remote research station, you’d get Ryan. He’s brilliant, baffling, and charming in his rigidity. He struggles with unexpected change and chaos, but he’s learning to adapt. He’s genuinely adorable to watch. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to be neurodivergent, Ryan is a fantastic lens. He sees the world in patterns, but can’t “turn off” that thinking, which creates tension. He will have to learn to accept the chaos and to find joy in the illogical to grow as a person.

Sofie, although not as different from Ryan, is neurodivergent in a distinctly different way. She’s empathy personified. She feels everything deeply and relies on instinct, nuance, and emotional intelligence. Her world is ruled by relationships and perception. She’s learned the hard way that the most dangerous people at work aren’t the obvious bullies, but the manipulators—the ones who make you feel special until you realize you’re just playing a part in their one-man show.

Then there’s Trevor. The perfect catalyst. The perfect ex. The perfect bit of drama. But he’s not one-note—we get a few chapters from his perspective that add layers and nuance. I loved the depth we get into his backstory, even if it doesn’t excuse his behavior.

I also have to mention the workplace/convention space itself—it practically functions as a third main character. The chaos and hilarity of event planning are part of why I couldn’t stop reading. It’s unpredictable, it’s messy, and it’s revenue-driven chaos at its best. The conventions themselves are often celebrations of people’s niche obsessions, which is just fun to read about.

Every sentence in this book feels deliberate and sharp. The writing distills big truths about human behavior and relationships with clarity and heart. I did a lot of highlighting as I read. It’s the most fun I’ve had reading in a while, and also one of the most insightful portrayals of how two wildly different brains navigate the same chaos. If you’re a fan of rom-coms or just love reading about flawed, fascinating humans figuring things out, you’ll enjoy this contemporary novel.

This novel was published by Curtiss Street Press 08/12/25 and is available on Amazon here.

TL;DR Star Rating: 5.00

Links for more information:

J.T. Tierney’s Website

Goodreads

Book Review: Beelitz-Heilstätten: Where Ghosts Never Die by Marina Osipova

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Beelitz-Heilstätten: Where Ghosts Never Die by Marina Osipova

A Historical Fiction Book published on (05/01/25)

I received an Advanced Review Copy (or ARC) on Reedsy Discovery

Summary:

A Russian-American writer’s return to her homeland leads to an unexpected journey through time. In a WWI hospital, she falls for a doomed doctor and meets a patient tied to history’s turning point. As love and truth collide, she must choose between changing the past or protecting the future.

Keywords:

Romance, Historical Fiction, Germany, 1900’s, Time Travel, WWI, Hospital, Nurse

My Review:

The story follows the main character Marion in a first-person narrative. We’re deep in her head from the start, and that doesn’t really let up. She reflects on love, regret, identity, and memory. Most of the story is set in Beelitz-Heilstätten, a former sanatorium. There’s a romantic relationship with her husband Hans that grounds her in the present, but her true focus is the past and a longing to reconnect with her birthplace. The visit to Heilstätten carries weight, but the meaning stays just out of reach. You feel it matters, even if you’re not entirely sure why. That mystery pulls you further into Marion’s quest for answers. At times, I wasn’t even sure why I couldn’t put the book down, but it lingered in my mind as persistently and unsettlingly as it did in Marion’s.

The characters are quiet but layered. Marion feels out of place in the hustle and bustle of modern life. She spends most of her time in her own head, but also seems slightly lost. Hans is kind but possessively overprotective. The female nurses of Beelitz-Heilstätten are exacting and ever-present, though often on the periphery. The doctor is intriguing but almost unknowable, while patients come and go.

The story is divided into three parts, though structurally it reads more like an emotional arc than a traditional plot. The pacing is slow and deliberate. At times, it’s unclear where it’s headed, but you still want to follow. You need to know why, and that why feels inevitable.

There’s a sense of something stirring beneath the surface, pointing to a deeper, possibly darker truth behind Marion’s daily life in the past. Her discomfort with a particular patient, the recurring storms, her dreams, and ghostly phrases all hint at hidden layers beneath the story’s surface.

What really works in the novel is its emotional depth and immersive setting. The way the author describes the landscape, the weather, and even the silence in a room mirrors the characters’ moods and ties to the narrative. Cultural and historical details add richness without feeling forced. For readers craving thoughtful historical fiction, this delivers.

The writing itself is thoughtful, poetic, and full of sensory detail. While it’s clear English isn’t the writer’s first language, the phrasing and structure create a unique literary feel rather than a distraction. It reminded me of something you’d find on a book club list. There’s plenty to unpack in the story, from the characters to the themes to the writing style itself.

Overall, this is a quiet, introspective story about memory, longing, and how the past never really stays in the past. It’s beautifully written and emotionally on point. If you enjoy reflective, character-driven fiction with a slightly eerie edge, this is absolutely worth reading.

This novel was published on 05/01/25 and is available on Amazon here.

TL;DR Star Rating: 5.0

Links for more information:

Goodreads

Book Review: Altitude & Arrogance by Bella G. Raine

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Altitude & Arrogance by Bella G. Raine

An Action and Adventure Romance Book published on (06/14/25)

I received an Advanced Review Copy (or ARC) on Reedsy Discovery

Summary:

“That was the fundamental difference between pilots and passengers—fear didn’t get a seat up front.”

A fiery enemies-to-lovers romance takes flight when a daring test pilot and a secretive tech heir are forced into a high-stakes mission that threatens not just their hearts—but the fabric of reality itself.

Keywords:

Romance, Pilots, Flying, Aliens, Encounter, Love Triangle

My Review:

The writing in this book is rich, emotional, and often poetic. The author blends sharp, realistic dialogue with thoughtful, reflective moments. The story feels deep and intense, with lots of vivid descriptions and strong word choices. These details give the book a dramatic, cinematic feel. But sometimes the writing gets so detailed that it’s hard to follow the plot. You really have to focus while reading, since the meaning is often hidden between the lines. This book is less like a fast-paced action story (Independence Day) and more like a slow-burning, thoughtful film (Nope). You can’t just skim or read without fully paying attention.

This isn’t a typical science fiction novel. It mixes elements of sci-fi, thriller, romance, and literary fiction. If you like stories that blend genres, you might enjoy what this one offers.

However, the poetic style has some downsides. The heavy use of metaphors can sometimes make the story harder to understand. The pace slows down in some scenes, especially during long inner thoughts. Some emotional moments like grief, fear, and wonder happen all at once, which weakens their impact. The dialogue sometimes feels over-the-top, and important scenes can be unclear because there’s too much focus on description.

Still, the book stands out for its ambition and depth. It explores big ideas such as identity, love, loss, and choice, presented in a thoughtful and serious tone. The final scene leaves a strong impression and hints that the story isn’t over yet.

On the other hand, the romance subplot doesn’t work as well for me. The writing feels slow and repetitive in the early chapters, and the emotional side of the romance is underdeveloped. The romantic tension shows up too soon, before we’ve had a chance to connect with the characters.

This book is a good fit for readers who enjoy poetic writing, exploring deep emotions, and engaging with thoughtful themes. But if you prefer fast pacing, strong romance, or a clear story structure, it might not be for you. It’s a bold book with flashes of brilliance.

This novel was published on 06/14/25 and is available on Amazon here.

TL;DR Star Rating: 2.50

Links for more information:

Goodreads

Book Review: Tell Me It’s Wrong by Katie Wismer

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Tell Me It’s Wrong by Katie Wismer

A Contemporary Romance Novel published by Ahimsa Press (04/14/25)

Summary:

Adult single mother Christine lives in the small conservative town of Sweetspire. A series of encounters brings her and local bartender-entrepreneur Fletcher together again and again. As they spend time together, they start to fall for one another. In this conservative small town, a 9-year age gap might be unforgivable, but the more they are together, the harder it is to be apart.

Keywords:

Romance, New Adult, Small Town, Sibling, Best Friends, Age Gap, Conservative Town

My Review:

This is the second book in the Sweetspire series. We do see some of the characters from book one, but this is a standalone novel. This emotionally charged sequel blends a taboo age-gap romance with raw introspection and small-town pressures. This story centers on a single mom trying to find herself again, just as she falls for a man nine years younger. He has more ties to her past than she’s prepared for. This book leans into the messiness of grief, shame, and emotional vulnerability, all wrapped in a simmering romance that feels as impossible as it does inevitable.

The leads are complicated and real, both carrying wounds that shape how they love. Their chemistry is undeniable, but it’s the quiet, intimate beats, including the self-doubt, the yearning, the hard-won forgiveness that give this story its emotional weight. The small-town backdrop adds tension and texture, balancing warmth and suffocation in equal measure.

If you’re in the mood for something a little heavier, with flawed characters, high stakes, and feelings that don’t fit neatly into a happily-ever-after box, this book delivers. I couldn’t put this one down until the end, and I can’t wait for the next book in this series or more from Katie Wismer.

This novel was published by Ahimsa Press 04/14/25 and is available on Amazon here.

TL;DR Star Rating: 5.0

Links for more information:

Katie Wismer’s Website

Goodreads

Book Review: Chalk Dust and the Olympic Promise by Laura Shouse

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Chalk Dust and the Olympic Promise by Laura Shouse

A YA Short Book published on (06/11/25)

I received an Advanced Review Copy (or ARC) on Reedsy Discovery

Summary:

“Who is Amanda Scott without a leotard? Is she just a gymnast? What would happen if the dream, this consuming, all-encompassing Olympic dream, didn’t work out? The thought, usually buried under layers of discipline and determination, now surfaced, raw and terrifying. If she wasn’t tumbling, wasn’t vaulting, wasn’t perfecting a routine, then who was she? What did she offer?”

Sixteen-year-old Amanda Scott isn’t just chasing Olympic gold—she’s battling the voice in her head that questions if she’s ever enough. In the quiet before routines and the stillness between each breath, doubt presses harder than any rival. The gym is her sanctuary and her test, where perfection is the expectation and every misstep feels monumental. As the dream of the Olympics glimmers ahead, Amanda must decide if she has the strength not just to perform, but to believe she belongs.

Keywords:

Gymnastics, Olympics Dream, Training, Injury, Competition, Short Book, Teen

My Review:

This book starts with an essay-tyle recap of what will happen in the following chapters as if it’s a summary of a previous book. Chapter 0 outlines what’s to come, referencing later chapters in parentheses, which felt disorienting. Then Chapter 1 begins at the true start of Amanda’s story: she’s 16 and training for her Olympic dream.

While the depiction of elite gymnastics offers a window into the physical and mental demands of the sport, the story lacks the shape of a traditional narrative arc. Instead, there are small emotional ups and downs. The pacing is slow, and I found myself wishing for more tension, more drama, more something.

Amanda, the protagonist, doesn’t feel fully realized. Aside from Anya, her trainer (who also feels underdeveloped), there are few other characters, and Amanda’s world exists almost entirely within the gym. There’s little exploration of who she is outside her athletic identity, although she does question this identity. When I follow a real-life Olympic hopeful, I’m drawn in by the full story behind the talent—what makes this athlete different from the rest. Here, Amanda feels too narrowly defined by her sport to be compelling on the page.

The first real moment of tension appears when Amanda hits a setback beyond her own internal conflict. That’s when the story briefly finds momentum, and I started to care—if only a little—about her journey. But just as it starts to build, the story ends abruptly. The epilogue mirrors the prologue in tone and structure, reading like an essay summary.

The perspective is psychologically rich and emotionally introspective, but sometimes to a fault. Inner monologues stretch on, and the repetitive sentence structure creates a kind of narrative loop—training, doubt, incremental progress—without much sense of movement. While there are moments of emotional insight, they’re buried under layers of reflection that bog down the pacing.

This reads like a literary sports memoir than a fictional narrative. For readers who identify with the nostalgia of elite sports or Olympic dreams, there may be something compelling about reading this story but for anyone digging for plot, they won’t find much here.

This novel was published on 06/11/25 and is available on Amazon here.

TL;DR Star Rating: 3.25

Links for more information:

Laura Shouse’s Website

Goodreads

Book Review: The Verdict of My Heart by Laura Shouse

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The Verdict of My Heart by Laura Shouse

A YA Short Book published on (06/07/25)

I received an Advanced Review Copy (or ARC) on Reedsy Discovery

Summary:

“The Northwood Public Library wasn’t just a building to Maria; it was a sanctuary, a lifeline, a second home.”

Teen activist Maria fights to save her town’s library from a greedy developer, clashing with easygoing Sean as they navigate activism, identity, and unexpected connection.

Keywords:

Short Book, Teen, Activism, Romance

My Review:

From the very first page, this book drops readers directly into the heart of the story, opening with a “chapter 0” that lays out the stakes and summarizes the upcoming story. Main character Maria, often dismissed as the “weird activist girl,” is on a mission to save the Northwood Public Library and green space next door from a predictably profit-hungry developer who only cares about the money.

Maria is portrayed as sharp, independent, and fiercely committed to her cause. Her unwavering passion and need for control make her both admirable and, at times, difficult to connect with. Her character is rigid. She struggles to give others the benefit of the doubt and occasionally comes off as self-righteous or robotic. She has a lot of potential for character growth. While she initially comes across as intense, moments of humor and witty turns of phrase help soften the otherwise stiff tone.

Sean is another main character, but not the focus of the story. Maria’s strategic, hyper-focused activism contrasts with Sean’s more emotionally driven, human-centered approach, offering an interesting dynamic between the two approaches (what feels like right-brained vs. left-brained).

The writing itself favors telling over showing and sometimes lacks specificity. For example, they add music to a presentation but only describe it as Indie. Or they see a movie but don’t specify what it is. This reduces the visual impact but heightens the emotional focus for Maria, Sean, and the reader. As a result, the novel reads more like a middle-grade story. Its simplicity and structure feel more like a single episode than a full-length book, though it still stands alone with a clear beginning, middle, and end.

Still, the story tackles compelling themes. It blends civic urgency and duty with a slow-burn friendship to newly dating romance (light and age-appropriate without any steamy bits). It also explores the tension between community and capitalism, as well as different types of activism.

In the end, the story’s strength lies in its message more than its execution, and I would recommend it more for younger readers (middle-grade) versus young adult readers.

This novel was published on 06/07/25 and is available on Amazon here.

TL;DR Star Rating: 2.75

Links for more information:

Laura Shouse’s Website

Goodreads

Book Review: Mission: Red Scythe: A James Vagus Teen Espionage Thriller by C.W. James

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Mission: Red Scythe: A James Vagus Teen Espionage Thriller by C.W. James

A YA Spy Novel published by Insundry Productions Books on (06/12/25)

I received an Advanced Review Copy (or ARC) on Reedsy Discovery

Summary:

“Just moments ago, he didn’t have an idea about his future. Now, he was being offered the opportunity to become a secret agent — it was all too much to take in.”

In 1965, rookie teen agents James Vagus and Dakota Walker dive into a deadly mission to stop a global conspiracy. From Miami to Madras, they race against time, facing betrayal, espionage, and a threat that could change history.

Keywords:

Short Book, Teen, Spy, Thriller, Espionage, Orphan, Mission, Cold War,

My Review:

The story wastes no time pulling readers into the action with main character James’s first mission: an assignment that immediately goes off the rails. The story may have skipped past the classic training montage, but we immediately get a sense for what James learned and how he reacts under pressure when things don’t go as planned. The stakes are set early and escalate with each chapter, pulling the reader deeper into an adrenaline-filled adventure.

The writing is tight and focused, zeroing in on the action without getting sidetracked. The pacing keeps you right alongside James, allowing you to experience the tension, urgency, and thrill of the moment with him. He might keep his cool, but I was on the edge of my seat. I felt fully immersed in what was happening, with each scene pulling me deeper.

The setting is a fitting backdrop for a young spy, as it takes place in Miami, where there is sun-soaked energy and an undercurrent of youthful mischief. The setting feels alive and layered, and the action remains in Miami long enough to build out the world of the story before expanding internationally.

There’s something wonderfully cinematic about the whole setup. The time period, mysterious plot threads, and fast-paced momentum remind me of a young, trained Indiana Jones story, blending classic adventure with covert espionage back in time (the 1960’s).

The world-building is balanced, and the story is strong but not overpowering of the immediate action. The story doesn’t try to be overly expansive because it focuses on what’s right in front of James. This is exactly what gives the world a sense of authenticity. We get just enough backstory on James and eventually Dakota to make us care about them as people and as spies on a mission.

Tension is built masterfully throughout, keeping stakes high without ever feeling forced. If you are a fan of a good action spy thriller, then this is a great and quick read.

This novel was published by Insundry Productions Books on 06/12/25 and is available on Amazon here.

TL;DR Star Rating: 4.75

Links for more information:

C.W. James’ Website

Goodreads