Author events are one of my favorite ways to connect with the book community. One of my favorite independent bookstores hosts Literature Lover's Night Out where they highlight a handful of authors. The event I attended last week featured two new to me authors that I am highlighting in today's post. Both shared what inspired their stories and what went into finishing their books. It was fascinating and gives you a deep appreciation for their craft. The Net Beneath Us Set in th

Months ago, I dubbed this book my most anticipated new release of 2022. I pre-ordered a copy from Black Garnet Books in Minneapolis and was lucky enough to get an e-galley through Net Galley. The universe was telling me I would love this book and boy, were they right. Looking for a book that will emotionally drain you and leave your heart shattered on the floor. I give you The Two Lives of Sara by Catherine Adel West. I finished this one last night and the ending left me slac

Forewarning: I am getting a bit petty here. I would love to say that I base my reading off anything other than superficial eye candy, but the truth is, a beautiful cover draws me in. The past few years, publishers have been putting out some truly stunning covers. Favorites of mine include florals, nature views and abstracts with vibrant colors. On the flip side, a bad (IMO) cover can turn me off from even picking a book off the shelf to read its synopsis. Yes, I realize this

Toni Morrison books intimidated me for the longest time. I felt like I wasn't smart enough to fully digest what she is trying to tell us. A few months back, I read The Bluest Eye, and I understood why these books are important. They tell stories that need to be told. Ones that you rarely hear. Messy, complex, sad and real stories that are still present in generational trauma today. Beloved is not a feel-good story. It is quite the opposite. It is dark, traumatic, sad and hear