Now Reading, Reviews, and Recommendations

4/18/22

It is a rainy day in Myrtle Beach, so that calls for a book all about summer! Currently reading Summer Darlings by Brooke Lea Foster. Stop by grab some great beach reads for yourself this week! We are open M-W from 10-5 and Th-Sat from 10-7

 

4/17/22

 

4/15/22

Hey book nerds, it’s Eli posting today. Finishing up my latest Harlan Coben with Long Lost, the 9th book in the Myron Bolitar series. Stop by The Bookworm today and tomorrow from 10-7 to grab some weekend reading

 

4/13/22

30 Rock is one of my all-time favorite television shows (only following The Golden Girls and Buffy) so how could I not grab this? Currently reading The 30 Rock Book – Inside the Iconic Show, from Blerg to EGOT by Mike Roe. Have a great day, bookworms!

 

4/10/22

I’m in a bit of a reading slump… After a few long and exhausting books that felt like work to read and 2 DNF’s this month, I just needed something cute and easy! I started reading The Incorrigible Children of Ashton Place to see if they would be good for my niece and nephew, and I ended up falling in love with them! Currently reading the 3rd book in the series, The Unseen Guest.

REVIEW – The Unseen Guest by Maryrose Wood

Adorable, as always. Lumawoo!

 

4/6/22

Eli here, currently reading Bullet Train by Kotaro Isaka. When I heard about this book centered around five assassins on a train from Tokyo to Morioka, I had to read it. When I found out it was being turned into a movie, I really had to read it.

 

4/5/22

A big thank you to Celadon Books for sending me an early copy of Jean Hanff Korelitz’s upcoming release, The Latecomer! Her last book, The Plot, was fantastic, so I’m excited to get into this one

REVIEW – The Latecomer by Jean Hanff Korelitz  

Sadly, I had to DNF this one. I made it 150 pages, and could NOT deal with these characters for another 350, so I dropped it.

 

4/2/22

Hello Saturday! V.E. Schwab is one of my favorite writers, so I’m going back to her very first novel, The Near Witch. Stop by and see us at The Bookworm today from 10-7!

REVIEW – The Near Witch by V.E. Schwab  

I love VE Schwab, and I think she is magic. I only started reading her the past 5 years, so I wanted to go back to beginning and read her first book.

Unfortunately, this book was just OK. Knowing what amazingness she is capable of, it was hard not to compare this book to her more recent work. I never felt invested in the story or the characters. It reminded me of Small Favors that I read last year (and enjoyed a lot more).

Just because this one isn’t my favorite doesn’t mean I don’t still love her and want to read everything she ever writes.

 

4/1/22

It’s Eli, tagging in at The Bookworm. I’ll be reading All Systems Red, the 1st book in The Murderbot Diaries by Martha Wells, at the book desk until 7!

 

3/31/22

Currently reading Monday’s Not Coming by Tiffany D. Jackson. Stop by and see us at The Bookworm Friday and Saturday from 10-7!

REVIEW – Monday’s Not Coming by Tiffany D Jackson 

There’s no doubt Tiffany Jackson can write a powerful and devastating story. I loved Allegedly, and absolutely loved this one too.

My only complaint is the timeline/chapter headings were confusing… there was Before, One Year Before the Before, Two Years Before the Before, After, November, December, January, etc. I never was fully sure where I was time-wise in the book, which was a little frustrating. While it did get explained at the end, the confusion of it all felt unnecessary.

Otherwise, a fantastic book!

 

3/30/22

8.5 more years and Cortney will let me get a metal detector so I can find my own pirate treasure. (I have to wait until I’m 50.) Until then, I will just have to read about others adventures in treasure hunting. Robert Kurson takes on the search for the Golden Fleece that disappeared during the Golden Age of piracy in Pirate Hunters

 

3/29/22

After having this book on my “want to read” list for years, I finally have a copy in my hot little hands! I’ll be reading the first book of the Seven Sisters series by Lucinda Riley at The Bookworm today from 10-5. Stop by and we’ll find you a book you’ve been waiting years for too.

REVIEW – The Seven Sisters by Lucinda Riley  

3.5 stars rounded up

This was a long, sometimes boring, but overall enjoyable read. I liked it enough to continue the series some day, but I’m not clamoring for the sequel.

The story was mostly about Maia’s ancestors, and through the 480 page book, it really dragged at points, and then the ending came at you fast and then it was just over. It felt really rushed.

 

3/27/22

Good morning, bookies! I am currently reading the 2nd book in the Heirs of Chicagoland series by Chloe Neill, Wicked Hour. Enjoy the rest of your weekend and I’ll see you at The Bookworm next week!

REVIEW – Wicked Hour by Chloe Neill  

3.5 stars rounded up

The Chicagoland Vampire series is still one of my favorites, and this is an enjoyable spin-off. While I don’t love it as much, I’m still glad to have it and look forward to the next one!

 

3/24/22

Thank you to Abrams Books for sending me an early copy of Sajni Patel’s upcoming YA book, My Sister’s Big Fat Indian Wedding Eli and I actually attended a wedding in India a few years ago… check out our wedding finery

REVIEW – My Sister’s Big Fat Indian Wedding by Sajni Patel 

I feel like the author tried too hard to sound like a teenager and it came off feeling forced, which made the book and the story not flow right.

I attended a wedding in India a few years ago, so I thankfully had some background, but if I hadn’t already been familiar with some of it, a lot of the Indian references would have gone over my head.

Still a cute story, but I was hoping for a lot more.

 

3/23/22

Hey book nerds, it’s Eli. At Cortney’s suggestion (insistence) I am currently reading her favorite book from last year, Notes on an Execution by Danya Kukafka. Stop by and see us at The Bookworm this week!

 

3/21/22

Happy Monday, bookies! Currently reading The Good Lie by A.R. Torre. Her book, The Ghost Writer was one of my favorites in 2021. Stop by and see us at The Bookworm this week! We’re open Monday-Wednesday from 10-5 and Thursday-Saturday from 10-7. Have a great week and happy reading!

REVIEW – The Good Lie by A.R. Torre  

I really, really like her books! This was my 5th one and I’ve loved them all.

Great story with a good twist. I would have HAPPILY taken another 100 pages because this was fairly short, but I enjoyed every page of it.

 

3/19/22

Eli here, it’s been a while since I picked up a Clive Cussler book, but I was in the mood for a little man-fluff. Dirk Pitt searches for the lost treasure of the Library of Alexandria in the ninth book in this series.

 

3/18/22

Did you know we sell more than just books at The Bookworm? We have book lamps, totes, candles, shirts, pins, bookmarks, and more! Stop by today and tomorrow from 10-7 to treat yourself or your favorite bookworm to some great reads and bookish goodies

REVIEW – Glitter Every Day by Andy Cohen  

I thought this would be a cute, easy ready with fun little stories about the women mentioned… it was just OK. A lot of the same women were repeated throughout. I did enjoy some of them, but this could had the potential to be so cool, and it really just felt like something that was pumped out to make a quick buck.

 

3/16/22

Unfortunately, I had to DNF my last book (don’t you hate when that happens?!), so I needed something I knew would be good! Currently reading After I Do by Taylor Jenkins Reid. Stop by The Bookworm from 10-5 today!

REVIEW – After I Do by Taylor Jenkins Reid   

 

3/15/22

It’s never too early for Easter candy! A big thank you to St. Martin’s Press for sending me an early copy of Therese Ann Fowler’s upcoming novel, It All Comes Down to This. I’ll be at The Bookworm today until 5!

REVIEW – It All Comes Down to This by Therese Anne Fowler  

Unfortunately, I had to DNF this book after 50 pages. It was not good. I struggle to see how the same person who wrote A Good Neighborhood wrote this too.

 

3/13/22

Good morning bookworms! So excited to receive an early copy of The Bone Orchard by Sara A. Mueller from Tor Books. This book is one of my most anticipated reads of 2022, so I can’t wait to get into it!

REVIEW – The Bone Orchard by Sara A. Mueller  

I spent this entire book mildly to extremely confused. That’s the thing with high fantasy and made-up worlds, it’s up to the author to spell it all out for us. As a reader, I’m ready to believe whatever world you spin, but you have to explain it to me first.

That being said, even with my confusion, I still liked this book. The characters and the story were great. I just wish I understood more. I even contemplated dropping it a few times within the first 100 pages. I’m glad I stuck with it, but this book was WORK.

3.75 stars rounded up, if for no other reason than that stunning cover.

 

3/11/22

Happy Friday!! I’m hanging out with Stephen King today and rereading Carrie. Check out our new Pennywise bookmark! We have it, along your other favorite characters, for sale at The Bookworm. Stop by today and tomorrow from 10-7

REVIEW – Carrie by Stephen King  

 

3/9/22

I’ve been resisting this book for a year, but then always felt devastated when someone else bought it from the store. I didn’t want to chance it this time! Wish me luck while I move outside my usual kind of book and dive into this non-fiction story about The Galvin family and the science behind schizophrenia. I’ll be reading this at The Bookworm today from 10-5

REVIEW – Hidden Valley Road by Robert Kolker  

What a tough read… You couldn’t help but feel compassion and rage for and towards this family.

There was a lot of technical stuff, which was informative and told a necessary part of the story, but I got a little bogged down with it.

Really glad I picked this book up. It is going to be a hot minute before I delve back into a non-fiction book though.

4.25 stars rounded up

 

3/6/22

Starting off this gorgeous day with a cup of coffee and Colleen Hoover’s latest, Reminders of Him. Enjoy your Sunday bookies, and I’ll see you at The Bookworm next week!

REVIEW – Reminders of Him by Colleen Hoover  

Classic CoHo… I got mad, I got depressed, I cried, and I loved every minute of it.

 

3/4/22

Eli here, reading Herbert Asbury’s book, The Barbary Coast. It’s about the underworld of post Civil War San Francisco. Stop by The Bookworm today and tomorrow from 10-7 to get some weekend reading!

 

3/1/22

Hello Tuesday! I’m such a fan of Jenny Lawson, excited to start to her latest book, Broken (in the best possible way). Stop by and see me at The Bookworm today from 10-5!

REVIEW – Broken (in the best possible way) by Jenny Lawson  

I read Furiously Happy last year and absolutely loved it… this one was just OK. It’s her 4th book, so how much do you still have to talk about? It felt like A LOT of filler.

 

2/26/22

A big thanks to William Morrow for sending me an advance copy of Sarah Pinborough’s upcoming release, Insomnia!

REVIEW – Insomnia by Sarah Pinborough  

I just don’t think Sarah Pinborough’s books are for me.

I read Behind Her Eyes years ago, and liked it up until the end. Insomnia I was on the fence with, and then totally hated the ending. She just throws these weird, unbelievable things at the end of her books that make no sense. Some people are going to love this book, like they did her others, but I think this is my last book of hers.

 

2/24/22

Good Morning! I’m currently reading The Mad Women’s Ball by Victoria Mas. I’ll be at The Bookworm from 10-7 today, stop by and grab some weekend reading!

REVIEW – The Mad Women’s Ball by Victoria Mas  

So much wasted potential!

It’s a fairly short book (200 pages) so I would have expected it to be packed with interesting details and a really good story, sadly I got neither.

I always shave a little off my expectations when a book is translated into English from another language, but at the end of the day, this was just boring.

2 unenthusiastic stars

 

2/23/22

Eli here today, starting Magpie Murders by Anthony Horowitz. I had this recommended by both my brother and my dad, so I definitely had to give it a try.

 

2/22/22

I started It Had to Be You by Georgia Clark yesterday, and it is absolutely delightful! I’ll be enjoying this at The Bookworm today ’til 5

REVIEW – It Had To Be You by Georgia Clark  

What a delightful and adorable book!! I loved all the different stories and all the characters (except for Layla). This will definitely not be my only Georgia Clark book.

Loved, loved, loved!

 

2/21/22

Thank you to everyone for participating in our 5000 follower giveaway! We had such a big turn out, we decided to pick 2… Please join me and congratulating Karen and Michele for winning. I’ll send you a message shortly.

I loved Danya Kukafka’s latest novel, Notes on an Execution, so I had to go back to the beginning and pick up her debut. Currently reading Girl in Snow. Stop by The Bookworm this week! We’re open M-W from 10-5 and Th-Sat from 10-7.

REVIEW – Girl in Snow by Danya Kukafka  

I absolutely loved Danya Kukafka’s latest release, Notes on an Execution, so I wanted to go back to her debut… It’s amazing how far her storytelling skills have come.

This book was decent, but it got bogged down with the boring stuff. I figured out the who and the why of Lucinda’s murder pretty early on, but I definitely could have used more mystery/suspense in the story instead of the mundane details.

 

2/20/22

Hey bookworms, it’s Eli, diving back into non-fiction with Blood and Treasure by Bob Drury and Tom Clavin, a book about Daniel Boone and the American Frontier. Enjoy your Sunday, and we’ll see you at The Bookworm next week!

 

2/19/22

A few of our customers have recently read this and mentioned how cute it was, so I’m going to branch out from my normal type of book and give it a try (plus, I couldn’t resist that adorable cover) Stop by The Bookworm today from 10-7 if you want to try something new too

REVIEW – Meet Me on Love Lane by Nina Bocci   

2.5 stars rounded down

I just didn’t enjoy this book. The MC Charlotte was annoying and the other characters all felt over the top (except for Henry… Henry I loved).

I just wanted a cute and fluffy romance, but what I got was a book I couldn’t wait to be done with.

 

2/17/22

Crossing one thing off my reading “to do” list for the year and picking up a Classic… I’ve been totally hooked on the new show Yellowjackets, so Lord of the Flies by William Golding was an easy pick! Have a great day and happy reading.

REVIEW – Lord of the Flies by William Golding  

I’ve been watching Yellowjackets, so picking Lord of the Flies as my yearly Classic was an easy choice!

While the writing style isn’t quite my taste, it was also written over 60 years ago… fantastic story though!

 

2/16/22

It’s your favorite back-up bookworm, Eli, trying something a little different. Currently reading Breathers: A Zombie’s Lament by S.G. Browne. Stop by The Bookworm today from 10-5 and try something new-to-you from our Customer and Staff Recommendation shelf!

 

2/14/22

A giant heart-filled thank you to St. Martin’s Press for sending me an early copy of Sally Hepworth’s upcoming novel, The Younger Wife!

Exciting news for my Myrtle Beach friends – Sally is coming to town for a Moveable Feast this April! If you love her as much as I do, be sure to sign up for tickets

REVIEW – The Younger Wife by Sally Hepworth  

I really enjoy Sally Hepworth’s books!! This is my 3rd one, and I’m already excited for her next.

She always has different and unique characters, which is really refreshing, especially considering how many mystery/thrillers I read.

I loved Heather and Rachel’s POV, but I could have done without Tully. I wish the other two had just been flushed out more. There also wasn’t a clear answer at the end, so it’s up to the reader to make their assumptions about what really happened. Personally, I want everything spelled out for me, but the open-ended way the story finished will keep me thinking about it for days… I guess that’s probably the point!

If you haven’t tried one of Sally’s books yet, don’t waste any more time. Pick her up, you won’t be disappointed!

 

2/13/22

I don’t know about you, but this is just my type of Superbowl Sunday! Sweet treats from Rosie at Have Your Cake Desserts and playing with books while listening to my “College Jamz” playlist in anticipation of tonight’s halftime show. This is my current TBR pile… See any favorites?

 

2/12/22

Wild, wonderful, and blue are the perfect adjectives to sum up Carlie Sorosiak’s novel, Wild Blue Wonder! 

Is Wessie real?! It’s Alissa posting today, and I can’t wait to find out while I wrap up this captivating tale about Quinn Sawyer, her family, friends, as they navigate the difficulties that surround love and loss. I will be at The Bookworm today from 10-7, ready to help you pick out your next read!

 

2/11/22

In pursuit of the perfect bookstagram picture, I requested Pho from the chef in residence (Eli). I typically eat like an 8 year old, but I ended up loving it! Currently reading A Pho Love Story by Loan Le

REVIEW – A Pho Love Story by Loan Le  

Unfortunately, I had to DNF this book after 40 pages. There was way too much Vietnamese in it, and you just had to infer what was being said by the English response. I felt myself not wanting to read anything because I just wasn’t feeling this book. There’s way too many books out there to waste your time on something you’re not enjoying!

 

2/8/22

Who doesn’t love a little horror with their Valentine’s Day?! A huge thank you to Nightfire for sending me an advance copy of Anne Heltzel’s debut, Just Like Mother I’m too excited for it to let it languish on my TBR pile, so it’s jumping the line… I’ll be reading this at The Bookworm today from 10-5

REVIEW – Just Like Mother by Anne Heltzel  

Great story idea! It was refreshing to read something different and unique.

I definitely wouldn’t categorize this as “horror” though. And I really wish we had gotten into Maeve’s childhood and the Mother Collective more.

Overall, enjoyable and quick read. Can’t wait to see what Anne Heltzel comes up with next!

 

2/7/22

And so starts another week… Stop by The Bookworm Monday-Wednesday from 10-5 and Thursday-Saturday from 10-7 to check out all the new books we’ve put on the shelf! I am currently reading The Farm by Joanne Ramos. Happy Reading!

REVIEW – The Farm by Joanne Ramos 

3.75 stars

Based on the rating, I wasn’t expecting to be wowed by this book, but I still wanted to read it. I thought it was good! It started to get suspenseful the last 100 pages, but then it just kind of puttered out. Still glad I picked it up!

 

2/6/22

Buffy the Vampire Slayer is one of my absolute favorite shows, so I couldn’t resist this adorable book when I came across it! Currently rewatching the show for the 27th time and enjoying my Sunnydale Library candle from @bubbleandgeek Enjoy your Sunday and I’ll see you all at The Bookworm next week!

 

2/5/22

I started The Comeback by Ella Berman a few days ago, and it’s so good!! Too good to take with me to The Bookworm because I knew I wouldn’t get any work done. Needless to say, I’ll be reading this all weekend…what are your reading plans?

REVIEW – The Comeback by Ella Berman  

What a great book… so far, my favorite of the year.

The writing was fantastic. I can’t believe this was a debut novel.

Loved it!

 

2/2/22

I loved Goldy Moldavsky’s book Kill the Boy Band, so I’m super excited to start her newest book, The Mary Shelley Club Stop by The Bookworm from 10-5 today to find a book you’ve been dying to read too!

REVIEW – The Mary Shelley Club by Goldy Moldavsky  

I really loved Kill the Boy Band, and this book sounded so good, but it was just OK. It dragged on for entirely too long (it was 470 pages) and at the end of the day, I just wanted MORE. I didn’t really care about or particularly like any of the characters and the mystery was just boring and predictable.

 

1/31/22

Happy Monday! I just started When You Get the Chance by Emma Lord and it’s adorable! Stop by and see us at The Bookworm this week. We’re open M-W from 10-5 and Th-Sat from 10-7

REVIEW – When You Get the Chance by Emma Lord 

What an absolutely adorable and lovable book!! The Mamma Mia story line was super cute, and I laughed out loud throughout.

 

1/30/22

It’s snowing in Myrtle Beach!!
Eli here, reading the next book in David Baldacci’s Will Robie series, The Guilty. Stop by and see Alissa at The Bookworm today from 10-7 to find the perfect book to curl up with this weekend. Enjoy the snow bookies, it’s going back up to the 60s next week.

 

1/28/22

Eli posting today. Growing up in the 90’s, I was a punk rock fan listening to Nirvana, so I had to pick up a copy of Dave Grohl’s memoir, The Storyteller.

 

1/26/22

A big thank you to Catapult or the advance copy of Chelsea Bieker’s upcoming collection of short stories, Heartbroke. I fell in love with her writing during Godshot, so I can’t wait to get into this one. I’ll be at The Bookworm today from 10-5, stop by to find your next favorite read!

REVIEW – Heartbroke by Chelsea Bieker 

Personally, I just don’t like short stories. You get this tiny glimpse into a characters life and it’s over just as you’re getting invested. But I absolutely fell in love with Chelsea Bieker’s writing when I read Godshot, so I still wanted to read Heartbroke.

Her writing shined throughout, and as the title implies, it was heartbreaking. But, at the end of the day, I still just don’t like short stories. Here’s to hoping her next book is a full novel. ⭐⭐⭐⭐

 

1/24/22

I couldn’t resist taking a picture with the aftereffects of Myrtle Beach’s big ice storm A huge thank you to William Morrow for sending me an advance copy of Lucy Foley’s upcoming release, The Paris Apartment. I’ll be reading this all day at The Bookworm, stop by from 10-5!

REVIEW – The Paris Apartment by Lucy Foley 

I really loved this book!

Honestly, I was not impressed with The Guest List when I read it last year, so I wasn’t sure what to expect from The Paris Apartment, but it kept me riveted the whole time. None of the characters were particularly likeable, but that just made it that much more intriguing.

Great, fast-paced story!

 

1/22/22

Due to weather and road conditions, The Bookworm will open at NOON today

Myrtle Beach got hit with freezing temperatures and sleet last night, so we’re all under 3 blankets this morning!

One of my favorite crime series is the Fredrika Backman and Alex Recht books by Kristina Ohlsson. Currently reading the final one, The Flood

Stay warm and happy reading!

REVIEW – The Flood by Kristina Ohlsson 

I had a really tough time getting into this story. There was entirely too many story lines with named and unnamed characters and it got really confusing. It wasn’t until I was 100 pages in that I even started to enjoy it and understand what was going on. Honestly, if it wasn’t the last book in the series, I would have given up.

But, I stuck with it. Eh, it was OK. Not nearly as good as the books in the series.

 

1/19/22

I am starting The Monarchs today, the sequel to The Ravens by Danielle Paige and Kass Morgan. It’s been awhile (and a lot of books) since I read the first one, so wish me luck… When will I learn to just wait until a series is complete before starting?? Have a great day and happy reading!

REVIEW – The Monarchs by Kass Morgan and Danielle Paige 

I struggled to try and remember The Ravens, chalking it up to too many books since then, but really, it just wasn’t memorable. And even though it sort of came back to me while I was reading The Monarchs, at the end of the day, I just really didn’t care about the story or the characters.

 

1/18/22

Hello bookies! Did you know that we sell Novelly Yours Candles at The Bookworm? Stop by this week to give all these delicious scents a sniff. Currently reading No Bad Deed by Heather Chavez

REVIEW – No Bad Deed by Heather Chavez 

3.5 stars

This was a fast-paced book that definitely kept my interest, but you could totally tell it was a debut novel.

There was A LOT going on… too many characters and plot lines (a good bit which was implausible), and a lot that I feel wasn’t wrapped up sufficiently.

At the end of the day, I still enjoyed it, but I’m only rounding up to 4 because Goodreads is making me.

 

1/16/22

Happy Sunday Currently reading Watch Over Me by Nina LaCour

REVIEW – Watch Over Me by Nina LaCour 

 

1/15/22

Joining the rest of bookstagram and reading A Flicker in the Dark by Stacy Willingham. Stop by and see Alissa at The Bookworm today! She’ll be there 10-7 Happy Reading!

REVIEW – A Flicker in the Dark by Stacy Willingham 

An enjoyable, quick read.

I literally knew how the story was going to end within the first 10 pages, and it was clear that this was a debut novel, but I’m still glad I picked it up. I really liked her writing style. I think it’ll make a good adaptation (and who doesn’t love Emma Stone?)

3.75 stars rounded up

 

1/14/22

Eli here – if you know me, you know I love three things; beer, books, food, and not knowing how to count. I’m currently reading The Big Oyster by Mark Kurlansky, which is about the history of the oyster Happy eating (and reading, and drinking, and counting)

 

1/12/22

A bored, stay at home mom that thinks she is turning into a dog? Sign me up! Not only just this check the weird and unique box that I love so much, but it’s also gotten a ton of great buzz since it’s release this summer. Currently reading!

REVIEW – Nightbitch by Rachel Yoder 

I’m honestly not sure how to rate this book….

I love weird stuff, so a bored, stay at home that thinks she is turning into a dog is soooo up my alley. But I think because of the fact that I’m not a mom, this book just didn’t resonate with me. And honestly, it was so focused on the annoying and mundane aspects of being a mother, that it just constantly confirmed my decision that having kids was absolutely not for me.

Was it interesting, and unique, and cool? Yes. But did I actually like it? I don’t know.

3.5 stars rounded up because I liked her writing and it was really nice to read something so different.

 

1/11/22

Despite my massive amount of unread books at home, I couldn’t resist grabbing Local Woman Missing by Mary Kubica when it came in the store. Have a great day bookworms and happy reading!

REVIEW – Local Woman Missing by Mary Kubica 

I’m such a big fan of Mary Kubica and her books just keep getting better and better. I couldn’t put this one down!

4.5 stars rounded up

 

1/9/22

Eli here, reading book 2 of the Myrtle Beach Mystery series from Caleb Wygal, Death Washes Ashore. If you enjoyed Death on the Boardwalk, I would definitely suggest picking up a copy today!

 

1/8/22

Happy Saturday! I’m currently reading A History of Wild Places by Shea Ernshaw

REVIEW – A History of Wild Places by Shea Ernshaw 

It started out so strong, but once we switched over to Theo, Calla, and Bea’s POV, it became a total snooze, and then the ending felt kind of ridiculous.

I really loved The Wicked Deep, but Winterwood was a total disappointment… and unfortunately, so is The History of Wild Places

2 disappointed stars

 

1/5/22

Hi, I’m Cortney and I’m a medically diagnosed cheese addict… well, not really, but if that was an actual thing, I’m sure I’d be it. Currently reading Cheese, Sex, Death: A Bible for the Cheese Obsessed by Erika Kubick. Happy Snacking!

REVIEW – Cheese Sex Death by Erika Kubick 

Definitely a bible for the cheese obsessed!

I loved the history, the descriptions, and especially the absolutely stunning pictures. I really enjoyed Erika Kubick’s style of writing, I chuckled throughout the entire book. I could have done without the cheese as a female diety angle, but overall, a great and informative book.

Excuse me while I make my way through the entire cheese drawer in the fridge.

 

1/4/22

It’s Eli, just finished my first book of the year, Billy the Kid: The Endless Ride by Michael Walls. It was well-researched, however, less than a quarter of the book was actually about Billy the Kid. There was a lot of information about the people that were tangentially connected to him. Even some biographical info on people that may have been near the Kid. The last couple chapters were the best. I don’t think I need to read any more books on this subject.  3 stars

 

1/3/21

Starting off the year with a book I’ve been absolutely dying to read… Yours Cruelly, Elvira by Cassandra Peterson. Eli even got me a Living Dead Elvira Doll to go with it!

The Bookworm is OPEN and back to regular business hours of M-W from 10-5 and Th-Sat from 10-7. Stop by and see us this week!

REVIEW – Yours Cruelly, Elvira by Cassandra Peterson 

I hate (hate!) to say this, but this book was kind of a snooze. We didn’t even get into Elvira until the last 100 pages… A lot of (practically irrelevant) name dropping, plus I’m kind of perplexed/horrified that she would put a picture of her with a man that sexually assaulted her in the book? Why? Just to prove you knew him?

Still a decent read, I just wanted so much more. 3.5 stars rounded up because I still love her.

 

12/30/21

Ending the year with the book that’s been on my TBR pile since the beginning of the year. Currently reading Whisper Hollow by Chris Cander

The Bookworm is open today from 10-7 and then just 10-4 tomorrow before closing until Monday. Stop by and stock up so you can start 2022 off right… with a good book in your hands

Keep your eye on The Bookworm’s social media and invite friends to follow! Our first giveaway of 2022 is coming up!

REVIEW – Whisper Hollow by Chris Cander  

I let Whisper Hollow languish on my TBR pile for far too long.

Great and interesting story… very different from the books I normally pick up, but I’m so glad I did.

I really enjoyed the writing, the characters, all of it. Good way to start off the year!

 

12/29/21

If you’re looking for a book about a drug fueled musician destroying hotel rooms and sleeping with groupies, then this isn’t a book for you. @alfredyankovic or Weird Al as his friends call him, has been making music, movies, and tv shows for over 40 years with no sign of stopping. He is the definition of an icon… If you couldn’t guess, this is an Eli post.

 

12/28/21

Trying something new today! Sci-fi books are not something I tend to read, but Meg Long’s debut novel, Cold the Night, Fast the Wolves, sounds super cool and already has a ton of great buzz (plus you all know I am a sucker for a pretty cover) Thank you to Wednesday Books for sending me an early review copy!!

Me and my little wolf, Ollie, are snuggled up in bed reading it this morning. Cold the Night, Fast the Wolves will be released on January 11th, so mark your calendars Happy Reading bookworms!

REVIEW – Cold the Night, Fast the Wolves by Meg Long 

Fantastic debut!

I loved the story, the setting, and especially the characters.

4.5 stars rounded up

 

12/27/21

The Bookworm will be open regular hours today through Thursday, 10-4 on Friday, and then closed Saturday this week

I’m currently reading Horrorstör by Grady Hendrix Special thanks to @thebookables for the amazing bookmark… Buffy is my all-time favorite supernatural superhero

REVIEW – Horrorstor by Grady Hendrix  

3.5 stars rounded up

Such a cool concept, it just didn’t really pick up until the last 100 pages. Still liked it though…
Honestly, I’ll read anything Grady Hendrix writes. I love the way his twisted mind works

 

12/23/21

In honor of our smart, funny, talented, brave, and beautiful niece Amelia’s (who got into her top 3 colleges) 18th birthday, I’m picking up Amelia Unabridged by Ashley Schumacher to read today. Happy Birthday Mimi!!

Don’t forget that we’ll be closing at 7 today and not reopening until Monday, so be sure to stop by The Bookworm to grab a gift certificate or a last minute gift for the bookworm on your list! 

REVIEW – Amelia Unabridged by Ashley Schumacher  

I adored this book. Really great writing, sweet story, likeable characters.

 

12/22/21

Absolutely beyond excited to receive an advance copy of Rebecca Serle’s upcoming novel, One Italian Summer! Her last book, In Five Years, is one of my all-time favorites, so I CANNOT wait to get into this one. Thank you Atria Books! 

Special shout out to Susan at New Leaf Candle Co. for making these adorable book-shaped soaps. I love them! Check out her page and Etsy shop.

Don’t forget that The Bookworm will be closing Thursday at 7 and not reopening until Monday. Be sure to stop by today or tomorrow to grab those last minute gifts for the bookworm on your list!

REVIEW – One Italian Summer by Rebecca Serle  

I became a life-long fan of Rebecca Serle during In Five Years, and One Italian Summer just cemented it.

She has this beautiful, magical way of writing that makes the impossible seem so possible.

I felt everything right alongside Katy… The loss, the grief, the joy of seeing her mother again, her need to find herself.

Excuse me while I look at flights to Italy and go hug my mom.

 

12/22/21

“The only good bug is a dead bug.”

Hey book nerds, it’s Eli posting this morning, and admittedly saying that sometimes the movie is better than the book. I picked up Starship Troopers by Robert A. Heinlein the other day, and honestly, it was just OK. I’ll stick with the movie for this one.

There’s still some shopping days left at The Bookworm! We’ll be open today from 10-5 and tomorrow from 10-7. Stop by to grab a gift certificate, bookish gift, or enough books to get you through the family visits

 

12/21/21

Thanks to Minotaur Books for sending me an advance copy of Anna Downes upcoming release, The Shadow House. I really enjoyed her debut novel, The Safe Place, so I’m excited to read this one!

REVIEW – The Shadow House by Anna Downes  

I’m impressed with this book… not only was it a second novel after a great debut (usually the kiss of death), but it was also written during Covid (where most books have been leaving me dissatisfied)

Good story, interesting setting, and I always like a dual timeline. There were a few times at the beginning where I felt lost and the story seemed disjointed, but the writing smoothed out and I ended up getting really into the mystery of the witch in the woods. Also a bad case of insta-love, but thankfully wasn’t a major plot line.

Looking forward to reading what Anna Downes writes next!

 

12/19/21

Penelope took her modeling gig for Sad Janet very seriously Currently reading Lucie Britsch’s first novel.

REVIEW – Sad Janet by Lucie Britsch  

I should have paid attention to the ratings and reviews instead of falling for an amazing cover.

It wasn’t that I didn’t laugh, or even enjoy the book at times, but it was the longest 270 page book I have ever read. There was so much unnecessary repetition, that it could have been cut in half and it only would have made the book better.

2 unenthusiastic stars

 

12/18/21

Eli posting today – I thought picking the 3rd Stone Barrington book, which takes place in the Caribbean, would help keep me warm during the cold month of December, but who needs help when it’s already 70 degrees in Myrtle Beach?! Stop by The Bookworm today to find your next great series. Cortney will be there from 10-7!

 

12/16/21

Starting the last book on the final series I need to wrap up before the end of the year… Isn’t it Bromantic by Lyssa Kay Adams, part of The Bromance Book Club series. How is everyone doing on their Goodreads goals?

REVIEW – Isn’t It Bromantic by Lyssa Kay Adams  

I don’t know if I just wasn’t in the mood for this book, or it wasn’t as good as the others in the series, but it’s a 3 star for me.

We were definitely missing some of the guys and their fun scenes together, so I’m sure that added to my overall “eh” feeling.

 

12/15/21

Still working on wrapping up series before the end of the year… Next up, the final book in The Good Girl’s Guide to Murder trilogy by Holly Jackson, As Good As Dead. I’ll be reading this at The Bookworm today from 10-5, so stop by to treat yo’ shelf or the book lover in your life!

REVIEW – As Good As Dead by Holly Jackson  

The final book took A TURN about halfway through, and I was enraptured. Reading this was all I did until the last page.

Fantastic series with one hell of an ending!

 

12/14/21

Good morning bookies! I am currently reading Taylor Jenkins Reid’s first novel, Forever, Interrupted. Did you know that we sell bookish candles from the amazing Novelly Yours Candles? Stop by The Bookworm this week to give all these delicious candles a sniff. We’re open M-W from 10-5 and Th-Sat from 10-7

REVIEW – Forever, Interruped by Taylor Jenkins Reid  

It’s amazing how far TJR’s writing has come since her first novel!

Sweet yet sad story that pulled at all the emotions.

3.75 stars

 

12/13/21

Spent my weekend with the latest of Stephanie Plum’s exploits in Game On (Tempting 28) by Janet Evanovich. Stop by The Bookworm this week to restock your bookshelves or find the perfect gift for the book lover in your life! We’re open M-W from 10-5 and Th-Sat from 10-7

REVIEW – Game On by Janet Evanovich  

Fun and easy read, per the usual.

Lula is a gem, made me laugh out loud throughout the book. I’m not the biggest fan of Diesel, but I know our two boys will be back front and center on the next one.

3.5 stars rounded up

 

12/12/21

Eli, Oliver, and Penelope here, reading another book from the Myron Bolitar series by Harlan Coben. When I started this series back in May I didn’t think I would be on the 7th book by now, but I’m enjoying them so much, I keep picking up the next one

 

12/9/21

Happy SATC Day! Is anyone else excited (and cautiously optimistic) about the revival? And I Just Like That premieres today, and I am ready for it! In honor of my second favorite group of ladies (coming in only after The Golden Girls), I am rereading Sex and the City Kiss and Tell The Bookworm will be open 10-7 today, stop by to treat yo’ shelf or someone on your Christmas list!

REVIEW – Sex and the City: Kiss and Tell by Amy Sohn  

I binged the show (again) before the revival, and this book was the perfect companion to reread afterwards!

 

12/8/21

It is a cold and rainy day in Myrtle Beach, so I think I’ll be spending my day with Beverly Leslie, I mean Leslie Jordan, and his new book, How Y’all Doing? If you want to brave the weather, I’ll be at The Bookworm until 5!

REVIEW – How Y’all Doing? by Leslie Jordan  

Quick and fun read! You could just hear him coming off the pages… definitely made me laugh out loud more than once

I wish there had been so much more about his career instead of the going on about growing up, his horse obsession, etc, but I’m still glad I read it.

3.5 stars rounded up

 

12/7/21

It’s always a good day when I have a new Karin Slaughter book in my hand! Currently reading False Witness Stop by and see me at The Bookworm today from 10-5! We have the perfect holiday gifts for any book lover and a ton of new books on the shelf

REVIEW – False Witness by Karin Slaughter  

I feel like the majority of the books written over the past year and a half tend to leave me feeling disappointed… but I’ll tell you, Karin Slaughter nailed this one. It was so gritty, and real, and fantastic. I loved it, like I always do with her books (except for Cop Town… I did not care for Cop Town)

She touched on Covid, and how our world has changed, but it wasn’t distracting or annoying in the book. Desperate characters in a great story that kept me on my toes for all 440 pages.

5 shining stars

 

12/4/21

 

Look at these two Christmas angels! Currently reading The Invited by Jennifer McMahon

REVIEW – The Invited by Jennifer McMahon 

Well, Jennifer McMahon is 1/3 with me. I absolutely loved The Winter People… the Night Sister not so much, and unfortunately The Invited is the same. I really wanted to DNF, but I stuck with it. I really shouldn’t have bothered. I felt nothing for any of the characters, didn’t particularly care what happened to anyone, and was bored for the majority of the book. Eh.

 

12/1/21

A fairytale retelling of Rumplestiltskin? Yes please! Starting Gilded by Marissa Meyer. Stop by The Bookworm this week to find a book you’ve been dying to read too! We’re open M-W from 10-5 and Th-Sat from 10-7. Happy Reading!

REVIEW – Gilded by Marissa Meyer  

There is no doubt that Marissa Meyer can write a fantastic story

Gilded was good, but way too long. The beginning was great, the middle was long and boring, and the ending was great.

Looking forward to the next one! I just hope it’s edited down a bit more.

 

11/30/21

Happy last day of November! Currently reading All the Bad Apples by Moira Fowley-Doyle I absolutely loved The Accident Season, so I’m really excited to get into this one Have a great day bookworms and happy reading!

REVIEW – All the Bad Apples by Moira Fowley-Doyle 

Quick read that I started and finished on a slow Tuesday at the bookstore. At this point, I’ve read all of this author’s books, but her two subsequent books didn’t touch how great her first one was.

On the fence about whether I’ll continue to read her or not. Just wasn’t super impressed.

 

11/28/21

Thanks to everyone who came out to The Bookworm yesterday to celebrate Small Business Saturday! It was a great start to the holiday shopping season. I’ll be relaxing my day away with The Alibi Girl by CJ Skuse. Happy Reading!

REVIEW – The Alibi Girl by CJ SKuse 

I had a hard time getting in to this book at the beginning… I was just so confused about what was going on. But, BUT, I am so glad I stuck with it. What a good, heartbreaking, interesting story. I loved this author already because of the Sweetpea series, and this book only cemented it a little bit more.

 

11/24/21

The Bookworm will be closed tomorrow for Thanksgiving, but then back to regular hours on Friday. Be sure to come in on Saturday for Small Business Saturday! There will be giveaways, free books, and in-store deals.

Just picked up Do Not Disturb by Claire Douglas. Have a great day bookworms and happy reading!

REVIEW – Do Not Disturb by Claire Douglas   

Every chance I had over the past few days, I picked up this book. It was a fun ride and I couldn’t wait to see what happened next.

It was a bit repetitive, which made it drag a little, and I figured out a few of the big twists early on, but I still really enjoyed it!

 

11/23/21

Eli here. I’ve had Dune on my TBR pile for a while in hopes to read it before the movie came out… so much for that. I’m pretty sure the movie will be off of HBO before I get this epic tome finished, but I’m enjoying it so far!

 

11/21/21

I realized a few weeks ago that I was on the last book of 4 different series, so I’m trying to get them all wrapped up before the end of the year. Starting If You Dare by A.R. Torre, the final book in the Deanna Madden series. Enjoy your Sunday bookworms!

REVIEW – If You Dare by AR Torre 

3.5 rounded up because I like the series

Still great writing and an awesome MC, but I just didn’t love it as much as the others.

Really hope we get more Deanna stories!

 

11/19/21

Happy Fri-yay! I was in the mood for a fluffy YA romance, so I picked up You’d be Mine by Erin Hahn. It’s just as adorable as I hoped! Stop by The Bookworm today and tomorrow from 10-7 to check out all the new books we got on the shelf this week. Happy Reading!

REVIEW – You’d Be Mine by Erin Hahn 

Really good story that had more substance to it than I was expecting. I thought I was picking up a fluffy YA book, but there was a lot more to it. Great story with great characters you couldn’t help but root for.

 

11/16/21

St. Martin’s Press had me doing the bookmail happy dance this weekend with an advance copy of The Golden Couple by Greer Hendricks and Sarah Pekkanen. Their books just keep getting better and better every year, and I’m so excited to dive right into this one! Stop by and see me at The Bookworm this week and I’ll help you find a book you’re dying to read too. We’re open M-W from 10-5 and Th-Sat from 10-7

REVIEW – The Golden Couple by Greer Hendricks and Sarah Pekkanen

Don’t you just hate it when a book leaves you feeling unsatisfied?

I’ve been wanting to read The Water Cure for a couple of years, so despite it’s less than stellar rating, I picked it up. But it was one of those books that doesn’t explain anything and leaves a lot up to interpretation.

I need to know EVERYTHING. The how, the why, the details, the history. So, while I still enjoyed the story, I almost wish I hadn’t read it because I have so many unanswered questions.

Oh well! They’re not all going to be my favorite, right?

REVIEW – The Water Cure by Sophie Mackintosh 

This was a weird book.

I liked the story, but the style of the book was just not for me. I need explanations, I need history, I need to know and understand the how, the why, everything. I wasn’t even sure of how old any of the characters were until the end because the reader was never told.

Still 3 stars, but I don’t like feeling like this way after reading a book. I have so many questions, that I almost wish I hadn’t even read it.

 

11/15/21

Thank you to everyone who donated to All 4 Paws Animal Rescue this weekend at the book sale! Congratulations to Loretta Natowitz for winning The Bookworm’s giveaway!

I’m currently finishing up the 6th and final book in the Shatter Me series by Tahereh Mafi, Imagine Me. Have a wonderful week bookworms!

REVIEW – Imagine Me by Tahereh Mafi   

The original trilogy was so great… unfortunately, the additional 3 books were pointless and disappointing. Each one worse than the last. I’m just glad I finally finished it.

 

11/10/21

Reading the final book in the Market of Monsters trilogy by Rebecca Schaeffer, When Villains Rise. Don’t forget The Bookworm’s $5 Bag of Books Sidewalk Sale is THIS Saturday, Nov 13, from 9-1!

REVIEW – When Villains Rise by Rebecca Schaeffer 

While I didn’t quite love the final installment as much as the other 2, I still really enjoyed this whole series. Very cool and different and with great characters.

 

11/9/21

Working on the bottom of my TBR pile and finally reading The Star-Crossed Sisters of Tuscany by Lori Nelson Spielman

REVIEW – The Star-Crossed Sisters of Tuscany by Lori Nelson Spielman 

Honestly, I’m surprised this book has such a high rating.

The story was decent, and Poppy was magic… I absolutely loved her. On the other side though, Lucy was beyond obnoxious. I hated her, hated Daria, hated Rosa, and even Emilia was such a wimp it honestly took away from the enjoyment of the book.

The story between Rico and Poppy was great, but the rest, eh.

11/7/21

Kill the Boy Band by Goldy Moldavsky has been calling to me from the YA section for a while now… I couldn’t put up a fight any longer! Currently reading

REVIEW – Kill the Boy Band by Goldy Moldavsky 

I’ve been looking at this book on the shelf of the bookstore for a few months now, and I just couldn’t resist it anymore!

It was fun, it was snarky, it made me laugh out loud, I loved it. mayherestinpeace

11/6/21

If only I had this book when I was 14… Currently reading How to Marry Keanu Reeves in 90 days by K.M. Jackson

REVIEW – How to Marry Keanu Reeves in 90 Days 

This book was a big let down… I thought it sounded super cute and fun, but I wasn’t a fan.

The writing wasn’t great, the characters were all one-dimensional (and annoying), and the story just didn’t feel real or believable. There was such an opportunity for this to be awesome, but it fell really flat. Even Keanu didn’t feel like the Keanu we all know and love!

Honestly, if I hadn’t spent money on this book, I would have DNFed it.

11/4/21

Excited to start Alice Feeney’s newest book, Rock Paper Scissors. Stop by The Bookworm to grab some weekend reading! We’ve put a ton of new books on the shelf this week. We’ll be open 10-7 today, tomorrow, and Saturday. See you soon and Happy Reading!

REVIEW – Rock Paper Scissors by Alice Feeney 

THIS is the Alice Feeney I have been chasing since Sometimes I Lie.

Rock Paper Scissors was great! After her last 2 books were disappointing for me, I had a hard time putting it down. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

11/3/21

Good morning bookworms! Currently reading American Royals by Katharine McGee

REVIEW – American Royals by Katharine McGee 

Cute story, likeable characters. Looking forward to the next one!

10/30/21

It’s Eli posting today. Just starting A Darker Sea by James L. Haley

10/29/21

I told myself I wasn’t allowed to take any more books home from the bookstore until I caught up with what I already had… I only took 2 this week, so I’m going to consider that a win! One of the books I couldn’t resist was Confessions on the 7:45 by Lisa Unger. Got this adorable sweatshirt from piper & ivy and clearly I live my life this way

REVIEW – Confessions on the 7:45 by Lisa Unger 

Lisa Unger, who hurt you? Not every man is a liar and a cheater. I promise. Even the young sons in the book were painted badly.

I’ve been reading her books for a decade now and some I love, others not so much. I don’t know, this one just didn’t really work for me. There were too many POV’s and there were chunks of the book when I thought to myself “What the hell is going on?”

Still a decent story, but I didn’t love it. 3 stars

10/28/21

So excited to receive an advance copy of Diane Chamberlain’s upcoming release, The Last House on the Street. Thanks for the bookmail St. Martin’s Press!

REVIEW – The Last House on the Street by Diane Chamberlain 

I hate to say it, but I just didn’t like this book. I absolutely loved Diane Chamberlain’s 2020 release, Big Lies in a Small Town, but this one just didn’t do it for me. I didn’t really care about or feel connected to any of the characters, the dual timelines had nothing to do with each other until the end. It felt repetitive and I had to force myself to keep picking it back up to finish. I will say that the last 100 pages were much better, but it’s not enough to raise my rating past 3 stars

10/27/21

Great second installment of A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder trilogy! I just love the main character, Pip, and any books that are centered around a podcast. So glad I already have the 3rd book in the trilogy at home waiting for me! 5 stars

10/25/21

It’s a rainy day in Myrtle Beach…perfect reading weather! Currently reading The Royals Next Door by Karina Halle. Stop by The Bookworm this week to add some books to your TBR piles. We’re open M-W from 10-5 and Th-Sat from 10-7

REVIEW – The Royals Next Door by Karina Halle 

I wanted to love this book, I mean, that cover! But unfortunately, that was the best thing about it.

The story was just OK. I never really felt connected to Piper… she whines a lot. I loved the idea of this book, it could have been great, but it ended up being just mediocre.

10/24/21

I’ve been reading Notes on an Execution by Danya Kukafka and it is fantastic! Dark and engrossing, wonderfully written, it tells the story of a serial killer on death row through the eyes of the women in his life. A huge thank you to William Morrow for sending me an advance copy. It’s one of the best books I’ve read all year. Add it to your virtual TBR now, it comes out 1/22

REVIEW – Notes on an Execution by Danya Kukafka 

Absolutely stunning book. The story, the characters, and the writing were all flawless. It was dark and heartbreaking, and completely engrossing and unforgettable. Without a doubt, the best book I have read all year. I wish I could give it more than 5 stars!

Please add this book to your virtual TBR or pre-order it now. You will not be disappointed.

10/23/21

Eli here, getting started on Island of Vice by Richard Zacks. When illegal brothels, gambling halls, and 24/7 saloons permeate New York society, and the police are all on the take, will Teddy Roosevelt be able to clean up the sin and corruption after years of free reign? I guess I’ll be finding out!

10/20/21

Why yes, that IS a little Colleen Hoover doll in the picture Currently reading Regretting You by the queen

REVIEW – Regretting You by Colleen Hoover 

C’mon CoHo, I need answers!!

Good book, as always, but not a favorite. The fact that the biggest question was never answered really bugs me, but it goes that way sometimes. Still enjoyed it, and I’ll still read anything she writes. 4 stars

10/19/21

Eli post – being a fan of Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, I couldn’t resist reading The Legends of Greemulax before putting it on the shelf

10/17/21

Got a lazy Sunday planned… Britney Spears and Brittany Murphy docs and The Divines by Ellie Eaton. Enjoy your Sunday bookies! ps – aren’t these donut bookmarks fun?! Stop by The Bookworm this week to check them and all our bookmarks out! We’re open M-W from 10-5 and Th-Sat from 10-7

REVIEW – The Divines by Ellie Eaton 

I was a little hesitant to pick up The Divines based on the reviews, but I really enjoyed it! I thought the writing was really good, especially for a debut. This isn’t going to be a book for everyone, but it was definitely for me. I wish I had more answers at the end, there were numerous story lines that didn’t wrap up, but a solid 4 stars.

10/16/21

Currently reading this stunning Owlcrate edition of Lakesedge by Lyndall Clipstone. Hope you all have a great weekend with lots of reading time!

REVIEW – Lakesedge by Lyndall Clipstone 

Perfect book for spooky season!

The writing was 5 star… her beautiful talent of description was fantastic. However, the story really dragged in parts for me and ultimately ended up being a 3 star for the story overall.

Averaging together for a 4 star rating

10/14/21

I’m a sucker for British chick lit, so when one of our regulars recommended Penny Vincenzi (who has a huge backlist!) I knew I had to grab one. Currently reading A Perfect Heritage

REVIEW – A Perfect Heritage by Penny Vincenzi 

I am a sucker for these type of books! This was my first book by Penny Vincenzi, and while I mostly enjoyed it, I’m not sure her writing style is for me.

There were so many characters, and each chapter kept jumping around to all different people and events, sometimes with no explanation of who it was until a few sentences in. It was unnecessarily confusing. And with all these characters, there was a lot of mundane activities which made this book 750 pages. I love a thick book when it’s good, but this story could have been told in half the amount of words.

10/13/21

Eli post – currently reading Star Wars: Alphabet Squadron by Alexander Freed. Don’t forget that we sell bookmarks at The Bookworm! Here’s some of the Star Wars bookmarks we have available

10/11/21

Where did the weekend go?! Currently reading Nice Girls by Catherine Dang. Stop by and see me at The Bookworm this week! We’re open M-W from 10-5 and Th-Sat from 10-7. Happy Reading!

REVIEW – Nice Girls by Catherine Dang 

3.5 stars

Decent and quick read. I feel like every part of the story needed go deeper to really build that suspenseful “I can’t wait to see what happens” feeling. 3.5 stars. It probably deserves more to be rounded down to a 3, but I’m going up to 4 because I enjoyed it. I think this author will definitely grow with her writing in the books to come.

10/10/21

You may not recognize the name Danny Trejo, but you will certainly recognize his face. Eli here, and I just finished the biography of the most respected man in the California penal system and most killed man in Hollywood. Such a great story!

10/8/21

Hello Friday! Currently reading The Blue by Lucy Clarke. I found this book nestled on the shelf at The Bookworm and couldn’t resist taking it home Stop by and see us today and tomorrow from 10-7 and see what kind of gems you find on the shelves Happy Reading!

REVIEW – The Blue by Lucy Clarke 

Decent story… I thought it was lacking the suspense/mystery. 3 stars

10/5/21

Eli here. Getting ready to read the next book in Harlan Coben’s Myron Bolitar series, The Final Detail and the latest book in Clive Cussler’s Oregon Files, Marauder. This completes another Clive Cussler series for me, with only another 3 series and 700 books to go to read them all.

10/3/21

Excited to be back in the world of Caraval again with Once Upon a Broken Heart by Stephanie Garber. This is one of my most anticipated reads of the year, so glad to finally have it! Enjoy your Sunday bookworms and Happy Reading!

REVIEW – Once Upon a Broken Heart by Stephanie Garber   

I loved being back in the world of Caraval again! While this didn’t have the same glittery magic as the original trilogy, I still really enjoyed it. Looking forward to the next one!

10/2/21

REVIEW – The Ballerinas by Rachel Kapelke-Dale 

I just finished The Ballerinas by Rachel Kapelke-Dale and it was fantastic!! An amazing and well-written story by a debut author. Definitely add this book to your virtual TBR, it releases 12/7. A big thank you to St. Martin’s Press for sending me an advance copy of this read

10/1/21

Perfect book to get me in the Halloween spirit (like I need help ) Currently reading the second in the Market of Monsters series by Rebecca Schaeffer, Only Ashes Remain

REVIEW – Only Ashes Remain by Rebecca Schaeffer 

Great follow up! I love this series. Fantastic characters, unique and well-written story. It was pretty repetitive at times, but overall, I really enjoyed it.

4.5 stars rounded up

9/28/21

Excited to finally read Who is Maud Dixon by Alexandra Andrews! Stop by The Bookworm this week to find a book you’ve been dying to read too… We’re open Monday-Wednesday from 10-5 and Thursday-Saturday from 10-7. Happy Reading!!

REVIEW – Who is Maud Dixon? by Alexandra Andrews 

3.5 stars rounded up

Cool premise, but honestly, I just couldn’t stand either of the main characters. The book took a wild turn with about 100 pages left and I flew through those because I couldn’t wait to see what happened. That ultimately led me to rounding up to 4 stars instead of down.

Definitely worth the read if the blurb sounds good to you… just make sure you stick with it! It’s worth it.

9/24/21

Happy Friday! Just picked up The Ghost Writer by Alessandra Torre for my weekend read. Stop by The Bookworm today and tomorrow from 10-7 to check out all the new books we got on the shelf this week and to give our Novelly Yours candles a sniff!

REVIEW – The Ghost Writer by Alessandra Torre 

I had this book sitting on the shelf in the bookstore for over a year, but I saw it mentioned on other people’s bookstagrams twice last week, and since I loved AR Torre’s Deanna Madden series, I grabbed The Ghostwriter off the shelf despite the size of my TBR pile.

I am SO GLAD that I did. I loved it! The characters were all great, the way the author built up the mystery was great, the ending was as good as it was heartbreaking.

9/23/21

Good morning bookies! I’m looking for some new Middle Grade options for our Blind Date with a Book, so I’m currently reading Amelia Fang and the Barbaric Ball by Laura Ellen Anderson

REVIEW – Amelia Fang and the Barbaric Ball by Laura Ellen Anderson 

Cute book with great illustrations and fun characters

9/19/21

Good morning bookworms! Currently reading If I Had Your Face by Frances Cha. Enjoy your Sunday and Happy Reading!

REVIEW – If I Had Your Face by Frances Cha 

I really enjoyed this book…I did have to keep flipping to the back cover to remind myself who the characters were, but that’s honestly my only (minor) issue. I would have loved an epilogue, but that’s my personal preference. This book was just a brief snapshot of these characters lives, so an epilogue didn’t belong with the story (though I still wanted one… your girl loves a good wrap up!)

Really looking forward to reading what else this author writes.

9/17/21

Happy Fri-yay!! Before even looking at the synopsis of Monstrous, I knew I had to read it strictly based on the cover I can’t help it, I’m a sucker for a pretty cover! Stop by The Bookworm today and tomorrow from 10-7 and check out all the new books we got on the shelf this week

REVIEW – Monstrous by MarcyKate Connelly 

This book had the makings of everything I love, but it was boring. Definitely really repetitive… probably 100 pages or so could have been shaved off the first half. The second half got better, but at that point of the 420 page book, I just wanted to be done with it. I’d be really surprised that the middle grader this book is supposed to be for actually stuck with it.

9/16/21

Drac and I started The Wife Stalker by Liv Constantine yesterday (in the shade, of course ) Special thanks to my favorite book friend and librarian for sending me these amazing wine glasses!

REVIEW – The Wife Stalker by Liv Constantine 

3.5 stars rounded down because of the sheer implausibility of it all.

Still a decent read, but I threw a lot of eye rolls throughout. The twist surprised me, but I feel like it didn’t totally make sense… I’d have to give the book a 2nd read to check it, and I definitely didn’t like it enough for that.

9/14/21

When the sequel to a book you loved is only available from the UK… and you order it anyway Currently reading Sister to Sister, the sequel to Wife After Wife by Olivia Hayfield

REVIEW – Sister to Sister by Olivia Hayfield 

Let me start off by saying that I absolutely loved Wife After Wife… it was in my top 10 reads of last year, so I was super excited for this sequel. But, it was just OK. Just very, very OK. Nothing great or special. Definitely missing what made Wife After Wife such a fun and enjoyable read.

9/13/21

Eli post – just finished The Food and Wine of France by Edward Behr, and of course it inspired me to cook some French food. Looks like we are having Mussels Meuniere for dinner along with an excellent Sauvignon Blanc… cuz we fancy

9/10/21

REVIEW – The Tentative Knock by Kelly Capriotti Burton 

Great debut by a new author!

The characters in The Tentative Knock were all so relatable and real, and I loved reading a book that was based in Surfside!

The fact that Jessie and Paul got together so soon after the death of their spouses gave me pause, but who are we to dictate how someone deals with the cards they are dealt? The way Kelly wrapped you in Jessie and Paul’s story, and their pain and healing, you understood it, and ultimately rooted for them and their second chance. I especially loved the extended family and the roles they played in the story.

Special thanks to the author for giving me an early preview. The Tentative Knock releases September 21st

9/8/21

Eli posting today. I’m not typically into fantasy, but I’ve been wanting to read this book for awhile, so trying something new today!

9/6/21

Happy Labor Day The Bookworm is OPEN regular hours of 10-5 today I loved Ashley Elston’s book 10 Blind Dates, so I am really excited to read the companion novel, 10 Truths and a Dare Stop by and see us this week

REVEW – 10 Truths and a Dare by Ashley Elston 

I had such high expectations for this one after how much I adored 10 Blind Dates, but it just didn’t measure up.

It was still a cute and fluffy YA story, but it was missing the magic of 10 Blind Dates. It was nice to see everyone again though. 3 stars

9/5/21

Hope everyone is enjoying their holiday weekend! The Bookworm will be OPEN regular hours tomorrow from 10-5 I’m currently reading The Nanny by Gilly Macmillan Stay safe and happy reading!

REVIEW – The Nanny by Gilly Macmillan 

This book was a snooze. I kept waiting for something to happen and nothing ever did. The last 60 pages picked up, but all the characters were totally unlikable… honestly, they all could have drowned in the lake for all I cared.

2.5 stars rounded up because it was still well-written, even if it was just OK.

9/3/21

Cortney forced me read this travelogue about a couple moving to the third world Pacific Island nation of Kiribati. J Maarten Trost writes with a good sense of humor about a trying two years stuck abroad. Ended up really enjoying it, so I guess I should listen to her more often (maybe)

9/1/21

It’s September 1st, so that means it’s officially Halloween season, right?! Couldn’t resist giving Ghoulia by Barbara Cantini a read

REVIEW – Ghoulia by Barbara Cantini 

Absolutely adorable. Great illustrations too. Can’t wait to read it to my niece!

8/31/21

Good morning bookies! I’ll be reading The Meaning of Mariah Carey at The Bookworm today from 10-5 Stop by and check out our Biographies and Memoirs section!

REVIEW – The Meaning of Mariah Carey by Mariah Carey 

I wanted to love this book, because MARIAH. But, it was just allllll over the place. I wanted to hear the story of her growing up, and then getting discovered, and then her life after that… the good, the bad, the amazing, the ugly. But it was random bits surrounding those stories.

She needed someone to direct her stories and edit her and that clearly didn’t happen. This feels like a sequel to her first memoir. Still love her, but this book just didn’t give me what I wanted.

8/28/21

Hello Saturday! Currently reading Girl A by Abigail Dean.

REVIEW – Girl A by Abigail Dean 

Great idea for a book, unfortunately, it just didn’t deliver.

The timeline jumped around a lot, without any notice about where it was going (no dates/change in chapters, etc). There were way too many characters that weren’t introduced properly, so it was really easy to get them confused or just not remember who they were. The big twist came as no surprise… in fact, despite the subject matter, I hardly consider this book a thriller.

Definitely a disappointment.

8/26/21

Good morning Excited to read Erin A. Craig’s newest book Small Favors I was such a huge fan of her debut The House of Salt and Sorrow Special thanks to Savannah Bee Company for sharing their bees for our booksta pic! Stop by The Bookworm today, tomorrow, and Saturday from 10-7 to grab some great weekend reads!

REVIEW – Small Favors by Erin A Craig 

I really liked Small Favors!

Definitely a slower paced book… but it didn’t ever feel like it was dragging. I would have liked a little more creepiness and backstory on the monsters, but that’s a personal preference. There’s no doubt that Erin Craig can write a great story!

Already salivating for her next one

8/25/21

It’s Eli today, actually taking one of Goodreads random suggestions and reading The Dead Room by Robert Ellis

8/24/21

I’m 5 months older than Eli, so that technically makes him my trophy wife right?! Currently reading The Sinful Lives of Trophy Wives by Kristin Miller. Stop by The Bookworm this week to grab some great reads! We’re open M-W from 10-5 and Th-Sat from 10-7 **special thanks to Eli for being such a good sport

REVIEW – The Sinful Lives of Trophy Wives by Kristin Miller 

Fun and quick summer read! It kind of fell apart at the end for me. I wanted more… give me something nefarious and sinister and a dark twist, more explanations and more details, more of everything.

Still really enjoyable. And this cover is a stunner!

8/20/21

Rolling into the weekend with a little lemon cake and the newest by Colleen Oakley! I absolutely loved You Were There Too, so I’m excited to start The Invisible Husband of Frick Island. Make sure to pop over to The Bookworm’s Facebook page tomorrow for our next giveaway!

REVIEW – The Invisible Husband of Frick Island by Colleen Oakely 

This is my second book by Colleen Oakley, and it won’t be my last. I just really enjoy her storytelling! Cute story, albeit predictable. Glad I picked it up!

8/19/21

Let’s be honest, the cover was reason enough to pick up Pizza Girl by Jean Kyoung Frazier… But I stayed for the story. I really loved it! It has such mixed reviews, I wasn’t sure what I was going to get, but what I got was a book that I really enjoyed (and a bag of gummy candy pizzas) See, sometimes it is OK to judge a book by its cover! 4.5 stars

8/17/21

It’s Eli, just starting Empire of Blue Water: Captain Morgan’s Great Pirate Army by Stephan Talty. I thought it was a book about spiced rum, but I guess there was a pirate, er, privateer of the same name

8/15/21

I’ve never read a Meg Wolitzer book, so when one of my customers brought The Uncoupling in for me, I thought it was about time to fix that! Enjoy your Sunday bookies and happy reading!

REVIEW – The Uncoupling by Meg Wolitzer 

Interesting concept for a book, but I didn’t love it. I don’t think it’s deserving of it’s low rating though. If it sounds good to you, give it a read. It was a quick one.

8/12/21

A few years ago, Eli and I were lucky enough travel with my brother and sister-in-law to India for our friends wedding, and I’ve been fascinated with Indian culture and history ever since. Picking Rebel Queen by Michelle Moran was an easy choice for my next read! Here’s also a pic of us in our wedding finery

REVIEW – Rebel Queen by Michelle Moran 

I enjoyed Rebel Queen, as I always enjoy Michelle Moran’s books. The war that was talked about in the blurb and the two armies didn’t really happen until the very end and felt like a pretty minor story line, and it was hard to keep track of who each character was, just because of the fact that I’m not familiar with Indian names, but other than that, I liked it.

I hope she writes more books soon!

8/11/21

Eli here, getting started on book 4 of Harlan Coben’s Myron Bolitar series, Back Spin. I finally found something that has pulled me away from Clive Cussler

8/9/21

Happy National Book Lovers Day!! My celebration plans include taking 56 Days by Catherine Ryan Howard off the shelf to give it a quick read before putting it back in the store… How is a thriller-loving bookstore owner supposed to resist this book?! Happy Reading!!

REVIEW – 56 Days by Catherine Ryan Howard 

Despite wanting to avoid and escape all thing Covid, I couldn’t resist grabbing this for myself when it came through the bookstore.

It was pretty good! A little slower-paced than I was expecting, but I enjoyed it. Solid 4 stars.

8/6/21

Rise and shine with The Bookworm at Gil’s All Fright Diner… Now serving Armageddon with a side of fries! Thankfully Friday rolled around quickly this week, do you have enough weekend reading? Stop by the bookstore and stock up! We’ll be open today and tomorrow from 10-7

8/4/21

Good morning bookies! Excited to start Alice Feeney’s His & Hers today. Have a good one and happy reading!

REVIEW – His and Hers by Alice Feeney 

3.5 stars… not sure if I want to round up or down yet

I really wanted to love this book like I loved Sometimes I Lie, but, eh. It was good, but I just wanted to want to devour it, but I never felt strongly about it one way or the other. I typically like alternating POVs, but I don’t really think it added much to this story. I figured out some of the twists really early on, and now that I’m done with the book, I’m annoyed that one of the characters story line and motivation was never explained or wrapped up, and this character was clearly just used as a red herring by the author to confuse the readers.

And I’ve settled on rounding down

8/2/21

Hello August! Stop by The Bookworm this week to stock up on some summer reading…. It’ll be fall before you know it! We are open M-W from 10-5 and Th-Sat from 10-7. I’m currently reading Minor Dramas and Other Catastrophes by Kathleen West

REVIEW – Minor Dramas and Other Catastrophes by Kathleen West 

There was just a lot going on in this book, right from the first page.

A lot of different POV’s, and nothing to really differentiate them from each other. I had to stop and think “OK, who is this person again?” at the beginning of each POV switch. I also feel like I missed the first couple of chapters introducing everyone and the story, and just got dropped into the book about 30 pages in.

At the end of the day, I did enjoy the story, but there was just too many POV’s. Thank goodness for the short chapters.

8/1/21

It’s Eli, reading more than Cortney this week! Starting the 2nd book in the Stone Barrington series by Stuart Woods, Dirt.

7/30/21

It’s Eli, tagging in at The Bookworm for the rest of the day. Currently reading the latest in Clive Cussler’s Isaac Bell series, The Saboteurs

7/28/21

I’ve been trying really hard to just work on my TBR pile and not add anything new, but I had a slip up last week and added 6 new books to my stack (SIX!) The Last Flight by Julie Clark was one of the ones I just couldn’t resist! I’ll be reading this at The Bookworm today, stop by and let me help you add to your TBR pile too

REVIEW – The Last Flight by Julie Clark 

Really good book! I enjoyed the two different POV’s with Claire and Eva. How the two tied together felt a *little* too coincidental, but that’s the joy of fiction.

4.25 stars

7/25/21

I was in the mood for a fluffy YA story, and 10 Blind Dates by Ashely Elston absolutely fit the bill I am only on date number 2, but I am in love with this book! Hope you’re all enjoying your weekend The Bookworm will be open all next week… We’ll see you then!

REVIEW – 10 Blind Dates by Ashley Elston 

I absolutely adored this book! It was exactly the fluffy, delightful YA book I was in the mood for. I am so excited there is another about Olivia!

7/23/21

It’s Eli at The Bookworm today, reading Just Watch Me, the 1st book in Jeff Lindsay’s new series about a jewel thief. Stop by from 10-7

7/20/21

So excited to peek into the twisted mind of Rhiannon again with the 3rd book in the Sweetpea series by CJ Skuse, Dead Head A female serial killer that also loves Gordon Ramsay? Sign me up! Stop by and see us at The Bookworm this week We’re open M-W from 10-5 and Th-Sat from 10-7 Happy Reading!

REVIEW – Dead Head by CJ Skuse 

Dead Head is my favorite book in this series (so far). The dark humor in these books never cease to make me laugh, and while I am definitely guilty of being on the kill list a few times, I agree with Rhiannon most of the time (#5. Justin Timberlake. I don’t know what gives him the right anymore.)

I loved being inside her dark and twisted mind again, and I loved where her story went. Keeping my fingers crossed there’s another book!

7/18/21

Hello Sunday! A big thank you to Flatiron Books for sending me an advance copy of Chandler Baker’s upcoming novel, The Husbands. I loved Whisper Network, so I’m excited to get into this one

REVIEW – The Husbands by Chandler Baker 

The Husbands started out really good… but Nora quickly got on my nerves. Quit whining, girl! You have made this your life, so either get out of it, fix it, or deal with it. Her constant inner monologue complaining about everything got old really fast.

I enjoyed the story and the mystery, but you couldn’t have that without Nora, which really brought the whole book down in my opinion. It definitely got better the last 35% or so, but still a 3 star rating overall.

7/15/21

It’s Eli, and I just finished reading the 3rd book in Harlan Coben’s Myron Bolitar series, Fade Away. If you haven’t yet, follow me on Goodreads at https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/84551680-eli-hornyak I’m always interested in seeing what other people are reading and reviewing!

7/14/21

Working on the #bottomofmytbr and reading the final book in the Cursebreakers trilogy by Brigid Kemmerer, A Vow So Bold and Deadly. What book has been on your TBR pile the longest?

REVIEW – A Vow so Bold and Deadly by Brigid Kemmerer

Well, this was a slog to get through.

I absolutely loved the first two books in the trilogy, but this one was borrrring. Nothing happened the first half of the book. The second half was definitely better, but not enough to save this from a 3 star rating.

7/10/21

Hey bookworms and fellow woodworkers, it’s Eli, reading Nick Offerman’s book, Paddle Your Own Canoe. Cortney got this book for me years ago, and it only took 7 binges of Parks and Rec and 3 seasons of Making It to finally pick it up. Enjoy your meat tornadoes and Lagavulin this weekend!

7/9/21

Happy Fri-yay!! I am reading A Girl Named Anna by Lizzy Barber. Stop by The Bookworm today or tomorrow and grab a beach read (or 3) for yourself… We’ll be open from 10-7

REVIEW – A Girl Named Anna by Lizzy Barber 

Decent read, but nothing outstanding about it. Solid 3 stars

7/7/21

It’s Eli, reading the next book in The Oregon Files by Clive Cussler, Shadow Tyrants. The rain is coming Myrtle Beach, so stop by The Bookworm and stock up on some great reads! Cortney will be there until 5 today and happy to help with recommendations

7/5/21

The Bookworm is OPEN from 10-5 today! I’ll be reading We Are the Brennans by Tracey Lange. Special thanks to Celadon Books for sending me an advance copy Have a great week bookies!

REVIEW – We Are the Brennans by Tracey Lange 

I loved the Brennans.

They were a flawed family that you just couldn’t help pulling for. You felt their desperation and justified their bad decision right along side them.

Very well-written story, hard to believe this was her first novel!

4.5 stars

6/30/21

As every bookstagrammer before me, I had to put these two stunningly gorgeous covers next to each other for my picture. Reading the second half of the Fable duology by Adrienne Young, Namesake

REVIEW – Namesake by Adrienne Young

3.5 rounded up

I absolutely loved Fable. This was a decent, though not totally necessary, follow-up.

6/27/21

Convinced Eli to give the Sebastian St.Cyr books by C.S. Harris a try! He’s starting the first one, What Angels Fear, and I’m reading # 15, Who Speaks for the Damned. Enjoy your day and I’ll see you at The Bookworm tomorrow from 10-5!

REVIEW – Who Speaks for the Damned by CS Lewis 

Let me start off by saying that I’ve been reading this series since the beginning… I enjoy it, love the characters, the settings, the mysteries. But this one fell a little flat for me. I felt that the usual intrigue was missing, and if I’m being honest, I felt a little bored at times. Still a solid 3, but definitely not one of my favorites.

6/26/21

It’s your favorite backup bookworm Eli, making my way down my TBR pile. Next up, A Trick of Light by Stan Lee. Being a comic book nerd at heart, I had to give to give this a try.

6/24/21

“How well do you really know your friends?”

Harper Books had me doing the book mail happy dance yesterday! Super excited to get an advance copy of Kimberly McCreight’s upcoming release, Friends Like These. It definitely cut the line and I started it this morning… Don’t forget to stop by The Bookworm this week to enter our anniversary giveaway! We’ll be open Th, Fri, and Sat from 10-7. Happy Reading!!

REVIEW – Friends Like These by Kimberly McCreight 

I was super excited to get an advance copy of this book, but it fell a little short. There was a good story in there, but it was a bit of a convoluted mess.

There were just SO many characters to keep straight, all of which had their own POV chapters, plus Alice who died 10 years ago, plus the mystery person, plus the detective, and then the timeline kept jumping back and forth from the beginning of the weekend, to the end of the weekend, to the mystery stalker 2-3 weeks ago, to back when everyone was in college together.

At the end of the day, keeping everything and everyone straight just felt like work, and enjoying the book felt very secondary to that.

The ending REALLY saved the book for me. Moved my rating from a 2.5 up to a 3. There’s no doubt that Kimberly McCreight can write a great thriller, this one just missed the execution mark.

6/23/21

It’s Eli, trying something a customer recommended to me, the Repairman Jack series by F. Paul Wilson. So far, this is right up my alley

6/19/21

So excited to dive into The Lost Apothecary by Sarah Penner! I’ve heard such great things about this book, but honestly, the stunning cover was reason enough to grab it

REVIEW – The Lost Apothecary by Sarah Penner 

I wanted to be astounded by this book… the concept is so cool and imaginative and unique, and let’s be honest, that’s one of the prettiest covers we’ve seen in a year, but it all just fell a little short for me. And before you raise your pitchforks, I still liked it, still enjoyed reading it, I just wasn’t blown away.

3.75 stars rounded up

6/18/21

Helllooooo Friday
I’m currently reading Kerry Winfrey’s follow-up to Waiting for Tom Hanks, Not Like the Movies. Have a great weekend bookworms and happy reading!

REVIEW – Not Like the Movies by Kerry Winfrey 

Cute story… total star of the book is Nick

6/15/21

Finishing the Girls with Sharp Sticks Trilogy by Suzanne Young with the final book, Girls with Rebel Souls. Have a great day bookworms and happy reading!

REVIEW – Girls with Rebel Souls by Suzanne Young 

3.5 stars rounded up

This series started out with a bang. I loved Girls with Sharp Sticks… so much so that I immediately ordered the next two books in the trilogy. Unfortunately, they didn’t live up to the first one. I did enjoy this one more than #2, but neither were as good as the first.

I’m sitting here trying to pinpoint what was missing, but I just don’t know. I think ultimately I just didn’t care as much about the girls and what happened to them in the second two books. I’m still glad I finished the series, but I wish the sequels invoked the feelings the first one did.

I wish I could rate this the 3.5 I want (c’mon Goodreads) but since I gave the second book 3 stars, and I liked this one more, I’m going to round up to 4.

6/13/21

“The trick is to undercook the onions. Everyone is going to get to know each other in the pot… It’s probably the thing I do best.” I was so excited this book came into The Bookworm, I dropped the chili. It’s Eli, reading about The Office… and eating chili off the floor. Hope your Sunday is just as exciting.

6/12/21

Starting The Hunting Wives by May Cobb Enjoy your weekend and happy reading!!

REVIEW – The Hunting Wives by May Cobb 

I feel like it’s been a hot minute since I loved a book… The Hunting Wives cured me of that.

Loved, loved, LOVED

I could have done without the jumping around timeline at the beginning, that seemed unnecessarily confusing, but that is really my only complaint. I honestly really, thoroughly enjoyed this book.

It’s not going to be for everyone. I wouldn’t recommend those steamy scenes for my mom, but this is the perfect guilty pleasure mystery summer beach read.

6/11/21

Happy Friday! Reading the latest from one of my favorites… Malibu Rising by Taylor Jenkins Reid Stop by The Bookworm today and tomorrow from 10-7 to check out all the new books we got on the shelf this week!

REVIEW – Malibu Rising by Taylor Jenkins Reid 

Well, this was underwhelming.

I think Taylor Jenkins Reid is magic. She has this amazing ability to write characters that you just connect to and absolutely fall in love with. Unfortunately, that was missing from Malibu Rising. At the end of the day, I didn’t care about any of them. Even her writing and the fantastic way she typically can weave a story wasn’t there. There just wasn’t anything special about this book. And as one of my most anticipated reads of 2021, that’s a little heartbreaking 💔😖💔

I’m still giving it 3 stars because it’s a decent book, just nowhere near her usual caliber or what we all know she is capable of. Excuse me while I go cry into my bookshelf.

6/8/21

Eli post: After reading Deal Breaker from Harlan Coben, I could barely wait to start book 2 in the Myron Bolitar series, Drop Shot. If you haven’t already, be sure to give him a try.

6/6/21

Enjoying a little time with The Reunion by Guillaume Musso before starting the Sunday to-do list… What are you reading (using to avoid chores) today?

REVIEW – The Reunion by Guillaume Musso 

I wasn’t completely sure about this book, but once I got through the first 75 pages, I ended up really enjoying it! Definitely had some twists I didn’t see coming. I could have used more dramatics and details, but I just think that is the author’s writing style. Will definitely pick up another book of his in the future.

6/5/21

Eli here, reading another tale about the Wild West in Tom Clavin’s Dodge City: Wyatt Earp, Bat Masterson, and the Wickedest Town in the American West

6/3/21

Big thanks to Celadon Books for having me as one of their early readers! Starting the latest release from Alex Michaelides, The Maidens. Mark your calendars, it hits shelves June 15th!

REVIEW – The Maidens by Alex Michaelides 

3.5 stars rounded up

Having to follow up a book as fantastic as The Silent Patient is a really tall order… and while I enjoyed The Maidens, it was hard to not compare the two.

At the end of the day, I honestly just didn’t like or care about any of the characters. I just wanted more of everything…. More explanation at the end, more history on how we got there, and definitely more on the actual Maidens. They felt like a sub-plot of the book that was titled for them. The mystery was still decent, but I didn’t love it.

Looking forward to the author’s next (ten) book(s)!

6/1/21

Good morning bookies! I’m mixing it up a little today and reading Dean Koontz’s newest book, The Other Emily

REVIEW – The Other Emily by Dean Koontz

I haven’t read much Dean Koontz in my time, and what I did read was a long time ago, but the premise of this book really grabbed my attention. I ended up really enjoying it!

I could have done with more of everything… more serial killer, more creepiness, more obsession, etc. But I’m really glad I picked it up!

3.75 rounded up

5/31/21

**The Bookworm is OPEN today from 10-5**

Happy Memorial Day! It’s Eli, and I just finished the 2nd book in David Baldacci’s Will Robie series, The Hit. Stop by and see us this week at The Bookworm. We’re open M-W from 10-5 and Th-Sat from 10-7.

5/28/21

Just a little early morning reading with Oliver before heading to The Bookworm! Starting Girls with Razor Hearts by Suzanne Young, the 2nd book in the Girls with Sharp Sticks trilogy. Have a wonderful holiday weekend bookies! The Bookworm will be open regular business hours. Stay safe and happy reading!

REVIEW – Girls with Razor Hearts by Suzanne Young 

Well, this book was kind of a bummer. For how much I loved Girls with Sharp Sticks, Girls with Razor Hearts was a disappointing follow up. It was missing the magic and the “let’s all fight the patriarchy” rage that the first one inspired in me. It all felt forced and contrived to get that reaction.

It was still OK. I just hope the final book channels what made the first one special.

5/25/21

Next up for Eli! Raise your hand if you’re surprised it’s Clive Cussler

5/24/21

St. Martin’s Press had me doing the book mail happy dance last week with an advance copy of Chevy Stevens newest book, Dark Roads. Any of my regulars at The Bookworm can tell you she’s one of my favorite recommendations for a twisty thriller, and after 4 long years, I am so excited for a new book!! Stop by and see me this week at the bookstore, we’re open M-W from 10-5 and Th-Sat from 10-7

REVIEW – Dark Roads by Chevy Stevens 

I am so glad to have a new book by Chevy Stevens! It’s been too long. She is always one of my go-to thriller recommendations.

I really enjoyed Dark Roads, and both Hailey and Beth’s POV. My only complaint, and the reason why I am giving this book 4 stars instead of 5, is the lack of explanation at the end. All of a sudden, we are told that X did X because of X and that’s it. No real details, explanations, history, nothing on ANY of the other murders that have been happening for decades. Nothing. She doesn’t talk about or explain any of it. While this might just be a personal preference, I need answers.

Still really enjoyed it, I just hope we don’t have to wait so long for the next one!

5/20/21

I always have to read before I watch, so I picked up All Things Cease to Appear by Elizabeth Brundage. Has anyone watched the adaptation Things Seen and Heard yet? I have it added to my queue and ready!

REVIEW – All Things Cease to Appear by Elizabeth Brundage 

This was like two books in one… and unfortunately, the blurb you read on the back was a short story mixed into a 450 page book about a bunch of people I didn’t really care about.

I got suckered in by seeing the trailer for the movie, and because I always have to read it before I watch it, I went out and bought the book. I honestly wish I hadn’t wasted my money or my time.

I wish the blurb hadn’t been so misleading… maybe if I had an accurate idea of what I was going to read going in, I would feel differently. Unfortunately right now, all I feel is disappointed.

5/16/21

It’s @libraryofdallas taking over today and I want to send a huge thank you to @bookmarked for sending me this advanced copy of @claremackwrites ‘s excellent new thriller #HOSTAGE which hits shelves next month. I’ve been flying through it this week; it’s my first read by Clare and I can’t wait to read more of her books now!!

5/15/21

It’s Eli here, reading James Haley’s book The Shores of Tripoli. This is an historical fiction novel about Thomas Jefferson’s war with the Barbary pirates and a young man’s journey through the new American Navy

5/13/21

Hello bookworms! Starting a new trilogy with Girls with Sharp Sticks by Suzanne Young Stop by and see us at The Bookworm today through Saturday from 10-7. Happy Reading!

REVIEW – Girls With Sharp Sticks by Suzanne Young   

I really loved this book! To the point that I already had #2 and #3 ordered before I even finished it. Can’t wait to read the next one

5/10/21

Good morning bookies! Just a reminder that masks are still required (no exceptions) at The Bookworm. If you’re unable/unwilling to wear one, curbside pick up is always available.

I’m currently reading Lore by Alexandra Bracken. Have a wonderful week and happy reading!

REVIEW – Lore by Alexandra Bracken

DNF at 50%

I hate to do it, but I am 220 pages into this book and I just can’t read anymore. I only partially understand what is going on. I have felt lost and like I was dropped into the second book of a series since the very beginning. The backstory and explanations are very disjointed, and there is no flow to this book. I just keep saying out loud “What is happening?”

I am so sad. I was looking forward to this book for over a year. Unfortunately, the best thing about it was the gorgeous cover.

5/8/21

Eli here, and I’m trying something different today.  Harlan Coben has really been flying off the shelf lately, so I’m starting the first book in the Myron Bolitar series, Deal Breaker. Can’t wait to see what all the buzz is about

5/6/21

I absolutely loved Christina McDonald’s first novel, The Night Olivia Fell, so I am really excited to dive into her newest, Do No Harm. Penelope and Oliver give their paws of approval!

REVIEW – Do No Harm by Christina MacDonald