ARC Review: Get Lost With You by Sophie Sullivan

 


My book review of Get Lost With You by Sophie Sullivan.

Title: Get Lost With You

By: Sophie Sullivan

Genre: Romance

Pages: 304

Release Date: February 11th, 2025 

Rating: ★★★★☆

 

Summary from Goodreads:

Jillian Keller took the long route to her best life, but is now happily settled in her hometown of Smile, raising her little girl alone while helping her brother run Get Lost Lodge. A lover of structure and routine, she doesn’t need anything, or anyone, disrupting her carefully curated life.

After chasing and achieving his culinary dreams, Levi Bright realizes he’s still missing something. Something he can’t find in a big city. Returning home to Smile, he intends to build a different future for himself that includes mending fences with his dad, reconnecting with friends, and creating elevated comfort food for a town he loves.

When Levi and Jilly run into each other one day in Smile, once requited feelings that never had a chance to bloom as teens flare between them immediately. Jaded from her past, Jilly is cautious and convinced that she can handle being just friends, as the two have to work closely together to prepare for Get Lost’s official summer opening, spending time together, camping, laughing, kayaking, and reminiscing. But when her brother hires sweet, funny, ridiculously hot Levi as the new chef at the lodge, and she and Ollie are getting more attached, things are moving more quickly than she anticipated--and Jilly has been hurt before. If she wants to be head over heels in love, she'll have to learn that the past doesn’t always repeat itself. Sometimes, it just leads you where you’re meant to be.

 

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Review:

Get Lost With You by Sophie Sullivan is an utterly charming small-town romance that feels like a warm hug. The story of Jilly and Levi rekindling a long-buried connection is filled with sweet moments, playful banter, and cozy scenes of lodge life that make Smile feel like a second home. Jilly's cautious approach to love and Levi's gentle persistence create a heartwarming dynamic that keeps you rooting for them. While the pacing occasionally felt a bit predictable, the blend of family, community, and romance made this an endearing and satisfying read. Perfect for anyone who loves second chances with a side of heartfelt charm!

Received an advance reader copy in exchange for a fair review.

Weekly Menu #594 And The Book Of The Week

 


This week’s menu is inspired by the rich and soulful flavors of the Mississippi Delta, a region known for its deep culinary roots and comforting Southern cuisine. From crispy fried catfish to slow-cooked greens and buttery cornbread, each dish reflects the history, culture, and heart of the Delta. Whether you’re in the mood for something smoky, spicy, or simply satisfying, this lineup brings the warmth of Southern kitchens straight to your table. So pull up a chair, grab a plate, and let’s dig into a week of delicious, homegrown flavors!

We're pairing this weeks menu with this weeks read. Kristin Hannah’s The Nightingale is a sweeping tale of courage, sacrifice, and resilience set against the backdrop of World War II. Following two sisters, Vianne and Isabelle, as they navigate the hardships of Nazi-occupied France, the novel explores the different ways women fought and survived during one of history’s darkest times. Vianne struggles to protect her family at home, while Isabelle risks everything as part of the Resistance. With its emotional depth and gripping storytelling, The Nightingale is a deeply moving novel that lingers long after the final page—perfect for pairing with a week of comforting, home-cooked meals.

Lets get to the delicious menu!

WEEKLY MENU

Monday

Southern Fried Chicken and cornbread

Kids - Chicken Tenders and cornbread

 

Tuesday

Crockpot Pulled Pork

Kids - Cheeseburger

 

Wednesday

Shrimp and Gumbo

Kids - Chicken and Rice

 

Thursday

Red Beans and Rice

Kids - Nachos

 

Friday

Biscuits and Gravy

Kids - Biscuit pizza

 

Saturday

Pimento Cheese Sandwiches

Kids - Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

 

Sunday

Leftovers Night

Sunday Confessions #291

 


Sunday has arrived, and with it, a fresh round of bookish confessions. This week, I’ve been juggling stories that surprised me, frustrated me, and completely swept me away. Some books exceeded expectations, while others left me questioning what I just read. There were late-night reading sessions, questionable TBR decisions, and maybe even a bookish impulse buy (or two). Let’s dive into the highs, the lows, and all the literary chaos in between—because if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that a reader’s journey is never boring.


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Weekly Menu #594 And The Book Of The Week
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ARC Review: Get Lost With You by Sophie Sullivan
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Book Review: Godkiller by Hannah Kaner
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ARC Review: Kingdom of Claw by Demi Winters
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Five-Star Friday: The Crash by Freida McFadden
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Saturday Sips: The 3-Star Edition
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Sunday Confessions #292















37/100 2025 Reading Challenge



As another Sunday winds down, I find myself reflecting on the highs and lows of my reading life this week—the books that surprised me, the ones that fell flat, and the stories that lingered long after I turned the last page. Reading is such a personal journey, and sometimes, the books we least expect end up leaving the deepest impressions. Whether you’re savoring a five-star read or pushing through a slump, I hope this week brings you stories that captivate and inspire. Until next time, happy reading!

Saturday Sips - 4 Star Love

 


Welcome to this week’s edition of Saturday Sips, where we take a moment to savor those books that didn’t quite hit the five-star mark but still left a lasting impression. These four-star reads brought plenty of magic, heart, and suspense to the table, offering a little something for every type of reader. Whether it was a gripping plot twist, a deep emotional connection, or simply an unforgettable setting, each of these books earned a place on my shelf. So grab your favorite beverage, settle in, and let’s dive into these top-tier reads!

Golden Son

Pierce Brown

Golden Son by Pierce Brown is a thrilling sequel that raises the stakes and plunges readers deeper into the brutal, high-stakes world of the Solar Republic. Darrow’s journey grows more complex as he navigates political intrigue, shifting loyalties, and explosive battles that keep the tension at a fever pitch. Pierce Brown’s masterful pacing and vivid world-building make it impossible to put down, though the sheer intensity of events can sometimes feel overwhelming. With its sharp twists and emotionally resonant moments, Golden Son solidifies the series’ reputation as a standout in the sci-fi genre, delivering a gripping tale of rebellion and sacrifice.



The Pumpkin Spice Café

Laurie Gilmore

The Pumpkin Spice Cafe by Laurie Gilmore is a charming and cozy small-town mystery that blends autumnal vibes with a touch of romance. The book’s warm, inviting setting and quirky characters make it easy to see why so many readers have fallen in love with it. However, while the mystery element keeps things engaging, the romantic relationship falls flat, feeling rushed and awkwardly underdeveloped. Despite this flaw, the book’s comforting atmosphere and delightful small-town charm still make it an enjoyable read for fans of cozy mysteries.







Mickey7 by Edward Ashton is a wild, absurd, and thoroughly entertaining sci-fi romp that had me hooked from start to finish. The concept of an expendable clone sent on dangerous missions is both hilarious and thought-provoking, and Ashton’s sharp, witty writing keeps the tone light even as it explores deeper questions about identity and survival. Mickey’s voice is snarky and relatable, making him an endearing protagonist in the face of increasingly ridiculous (and dangerous) scenarios. While the plot occasionally veers into the chaotic, it’s all part of the fun, making this a clever and memorable read for sci-fi fans who enjoy a side of humor with their existential crises.





Fang Fiction by Kate Stayman-London is a delightful romp through fandom culture, filled with humor, heart, and just the right amount of absurdity. The book captures the joy and chaos of being a fan, offering a witty satire on the world of fan fiction while still paying homage to its creativity and passion. The characters are quirky and relatable, and the storyline is fast-paced and engaging, making it hard to put down. While it occasionally leans too heavily on inside jokes that might go over the heads of those unfamiliar with fan culture, it's a fun and clever read overall. Perfect for anyone who loves fandoms—or loves to lovingly poke fun at them.





Antimatter Blues

Edward Ashton

Antimatter Blues by Edward Ashton is a fantastic follow-up to Mickey7, delivering the same blend of absurd humor, engaging sci-fi concepts, and heartfelt moments that made the first book so enjoyable. Mickey’s snarky wit and knack for finding himself in bizarre situations are as entertaining as ever, while the story expands on the fascinating world-building introduced in the original. The stakes feel higher this time around, though the pacing occasionally lags in spots. Still, Ashton’s unique voice and ability to balance humor with deeper themes make this a thoroughly fun and satisfying sequel for fans of the first book.





Series Review: Mickey7 by Edward Ashton

 


Some book series sweep you into their world so completely that putting them down feels impossible. Whether it’s rich world-building, unforgettable characters, or a plot that keeps you turning pages late into the night, the best series leave a lasting impression. In this review, I’m diving into Mickey7 by Edward Ashton - a series that explores humanity and resilience. Let’s break down what worked, what didn’t, and whether this is a series worth adding to your TBR!

Edward Ashton’s Mickey7 and Antimatter Blues deliver a clever, fast-paced sci-fi duology with plenty of humor, existential dilemmas, and thought-provoking questions about identity and sacrifice. Mickey Barnes, a “disposable” worker on an alien planet, is a protagonist who’s equal parts resourceful and unlucky, making for an engaging, sometimes darkly funny ride. The sequel expands on the world’s ethical and political stakes while maintaining the same snappy, irreverent tone. While the books don’t dive too deeply into their sci-fi concepts, their sharp writing and compelling moral quandaries make them a highly entertaining read. A solid 4-star series!

ARC Review: Saving Five by Amanda Nguyen

 


My book review of Saving Five by Amanda Nguyen.

Title: Saving Five

By: Amanda Nguyen

Genre: Memoir

Pages: 224

Release Date: March4th, 2025

Rating: ★★★★☆

 

Summary from Goodreads:

A revelatory and powerful memoir by the Nobel Peace Prize nominee Amanda Nguyen, detailing her tumultuous childhood and groundbreaking activism in the aftermath of her rape at Harvard.

At a Harvard fraternity party in 2013, the trajectory of Amanda Nguyen’s life was changed forever when she was raped.

The American-born child of Vietnamese refugees, Nguyen had long dreamed of attending Harvard, and it had become a place of refuge from a childhood filled with turmoil and trauma. Determined to not let her rape derail the life she’d worked so hard to create, she opted for her rape kit to be filed under Jane Doe, knowing that an active court case tied to her name could hurt her odds of working for NASA after graduation, a goal she’d been working toward for years.

But she was shocked to learn this choice meant she had only six months to take action before the state of Massachusetts destroyed her kit, rendering any future legal action impossible. Nguyen knew then that she had two surrender to a law that effectively silenced survivors of sexual assault, or fight for a change.

A deeply affecting memoir of grief, survival, and hope, Saving Five details Nguyen’s winding journey of recovery and action, which ultimately led her to create the Sexual Assault Survivors’ Bill of Rights, one of the only unanimously passed laws in the history of the United States. Both a tribute to resilience and a lesson on healing, Saving Five is an inspirational story for the ages.

 

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Review:

Saving Five by Amanda Nguyen is a deeply moving and courageous memoir that captures the raw pain of trauma while highlighting the extraordinary power of resilience and activism. Nguyen’s story, shaped by her tumultuous childhood, her dream of working for NASA, and the harrowing aftermath of her assault at Harvard, is told with searing honesty and remarkable grace. The book’s most striking aspect is Nguyen’s unwavering determination to create systemic change, culminating in the creation of the Sexual Assault Survivors’ Bill of Rights. Her ability to channel personal grief into groundbreaking advocacy makes this memoir both an intimate journey of healing and a powerful call to action. While some sections could delve deeper into her emotional interiority, Saving Five is an inspiring testament to the transformative power of hope and activism.

Received an advance reader copy in exchange for a fair review.

Book Review: Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros

 


My book review of Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros.

Title: Onyx Storm

By: Rebecca Yarros

Genre: Fantasy

Pages: 544

Release Date: January 21st, 2025 

Rating: ★★★☆☆

 

Summary from Goodreads:

After nearly eighteen months at Basgiath War College, Violet Sorrengail knows there’s no more time for lessons. No more time for uncertainty.

Because the battle has truly begun, and with enemies closing in from outside their walls and within their ranks, it’s impossible to know who to trust.

Now Violet must journey beyond the failing Aretian wards to seek allies from unfamiliar lands to stand with Navarre. The trip will test every bit of her wit, luck, and strength, but she will do anything to save what she loves—her dragons, her family, her home, and him.

Even if it means keeping a secret so big, it could destroy everything.

They need an army. They need power. They need magic. And they need the one thing only Violet can find—the truth.

But a storm is coming...and not everyone can survive its wrath.

 

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Review:

The beginning of Onyx Storm held promise, diving straight into the chaos of the ongoing war. However, three books in, I’m still puzzled about why the characters are attending school during such a monumental conflict—it felt out of sync with the stakes. The war scenes, while exciting at first, became repetitive, with a climax that seemed to reset repeatedly, losing its impact over time. The ending left me underwhelmed, as Violet losing time, waking up married, and Xane disappearing felt rushed and unresolved. While there were glimmers of the gripping storytelling Yarros is known for, this installment fell short of its potential.