Good morning! Today’s post will link up to Sunday Salon, The Sunday Post, and Book Journey, for Weekly Updates.
**Mailbox Monday is now hosted at the home site: Mailbox Monday.
Good morning, Bloggers! Grab some coffee (or a pot of tea!), and let’s talk about our weeks.
Did our US friends have a good Thanksgiving? Are the rest of you eagerly looking forward to Christmas or other winter holidays? Here is what last week looked like for me. On Thanksgiving, I was at my daughter’s home, relaxing…
And then….
LAST WEEK ON THE BLOGS:
Sunday Potpourri: Reading, Blogging, & Unexpected Discoveries
Serendipitous Tuesday: Intros/Teasers – “The Nightingale”
Hump Day Creativity: Waiting on “Night Night, Sleep Tight”
My Bookish (and Not So Bookish) Thoughts: Happy Thanksgiving!
Friday Sparks: Book Beginnings/Friday 56 – “Cancel the Wedding”
A Reunion: Destiny? – Excerpted from “Interior Designs”
Creative Saturday: Giving Thanks
Saturday Potpourri: Curl up and Enjoy the Coziness
Review: The Pocket Wife, by Susan Crawford
Review: Another Night, Another Day, by Sarah Rayner
Review: River Road (e-book), by Jayne Ann Krentz
***
INCOMING BOOKS: (Titles/Covers Linked to Amazon)
Two Vine books came in my mailbox; I bought one book at Barnes & Noble; and downloaded five e-books for Sparky, always greedy for more.
The Secrets of Midwives, by Sally Hepworth (Amazon Vine)
“With empathy and keen insight, Sally Hepworth delivers a page-turning novel about the complex, lovely, and even heartbreaking relationships between mothers and daughters.—Emily GifinThree generations of women Secrets in the present and from the pastA captivating tale of life, loss, and love…
Walking on Trampolines, by Frances Whiting (Amazon Vine)
Praised as “a tender exploration of friendship, families, and first love” (Liane Moriarty, New York Times bestselling author of The Husband’s Secret), this coming-of-age novel from bestselling author Frances Whiting is equal parts heartwarming, accessible, and thought provoking.
The Life You’ve Imagined, by Kristina Riggle (Purchased)
Two childhood friends reunite when stressful circumstances bring them back to their hometown. Anna, distraught over the loss of a beloved mentor, takes a leave of absence from her law firm and returns to her mother, Maeve, and their family convenience store. Cami deals with a gambling addiction and breakup by hiding out at her father’s home. Sadly, coming home doesn’t bring them the solace they seek. Maeve’s store is being threatened by an upscale development. Anna is nursing lingering feelings for the high-school sweetheart she left, who now has a wife and family. Cami still mourns her mother’s long-ago death and resents her alcoholic father’s emotional withdrawal. Riggle, author of Real Life and Liars (2009), explores what happens when real life diverges sharply from childhood dreams. Her strong and complicated female characters are interesting and likable, and she ably weaves together multiple story lines.
Downloads:
The Secret Life of CeeCee Wilkes (e-book), by Diane Chamberlain
In 1977, pregnant Genevieve Russell disappeared. Twenty years later, her remains are discovered and Timothy Gleason is charged with murder. But there is no sign of the unborn child.
CeeCee Wilkes knows how Genevieve Russell died, because she was there. And she knows what happened to her missing infant, because two decades ago she made the devastating choice to raise the baby as her own. Now Timothy Gleason is facing the death penalty, and she has another choice to make. Tell the truth and destroy her family. Or let an innocent man die in order to protect a lifetime of lies.
You (e-book), by Caroline Kepnes
When a beautiful, aspiring writer strides into the East Village bookstore where Joe Goldberg works, he does what anyone would do: he Googles the name on her credit card.
There is only one Guinevere Beck in New York City. She has a public Facebook account and Tweets incessantly, telling Joe everything he needs to know: she is simply Beck to her friends, she went to Brown University, she lives on Bank Street, and she’ll be at a bar in Brooklyn tonight—the perfect place for a “chance” meeting.
As Joe invisibly and obsessively takes control of Beck’s life, he orchestrates a series of events to ensure Beck finds herself in his waiting arms. Moving from stalker to boyfriend, Joe transforms himself into Beck’s perfect man, all while quietly removing the obstacles that stand in their way—even if it means murder.
The Look of Love (e-book), by Sarah Jio
Born during a Christmas blizzard, Jane Williams receives a rare gift: the ability to see true love. Jane has emerged from an ailing childhood a lonely, hopeless romantic when, on her twenty-ninth birthday, a mysterious greeting card arrives, specifying that Jane must identify the six types of love before the full moon following her thirtieth birthday, or face grave consequences. When Jane falls for a science writer who doesn’t believe in love, she fears that her fate is sealed. Inspired by the classic song, The Look of Love is utterly enchanting.
The Perfect Mother (e-book), by Nina Darnton
When an American exchange student is accused of murder, her mother will stop at nothing to save her.
A midnight phone call shatters Jennifer Lewis’s carefully orchestrated life. Her daughter, Emma, who’s studying abroad in Spain, has been arrested after the brutal murder of another student. Jennifer rushes to her side, certain the arrest is a terrible mistake and determined to do whatever is necessary to bring Emma home. But as she begins to investigate the crime, she starts to wonder whether she ever really knew her daughter. The police charge Emma, and the press leaps on the story, exaggerating every sordid detail. One by one, Emma’s defense team, her father, and finally even Jennifer begin to have doubts.
A novel of harrowing emotional suspense, The Perfect Mother probes the dark side of parenthood and the complicated bond between mothers and daughters.
Betrayed (e-book), by Lisa Scottoline
Blockbuster author Lisa Scottoline returns to the Rosato & Associates law firm with Betrayed, and maverick lawyer Judy Carrier takes the lead in a case that’s more personal than ever. Judy has always championed the underdog, so when Iris, the housekeeper and best friend of Judy’s beloved Aunt Barb, is found dead of an apparent heart attack, Judy begins to suspect foul play. The circumstances of the death leave Judy with more questions than answers, and never before has murder struck so close to home.
***
WHAT’S UP NEXT? (Titles/Covers Linked to Amazon)
Currently Reading: The Nightingale, by Kristin Hannah (Vine)
Finding Jake, by Bryan Reardon (Vine)
The Paying Guests (e-book), by Sarah Waters
***
That’s what my week looked like! And that’s what lies ahead….what are you reading, blogging, and chatting about?
***
***
As usual you got so many great books! I really want to read the Sarah Jio as I loved Goodnight June and Diane Chamberlain is on my TBR. It sounds like you had a nice Thanksgiving! We did too though I’m feeling a bit drained by all the goings on!
LikeLike
I am definitely looking forward to the Jio…loved all of her previous books. And Diane Chamberlain is another favorite author of mine. Thanks for stopping by, Katherine, and I hope you catch up on some relaxation. You had a hectic week!
LikeLike
The new Sarah Jio book sounds wonderful. And…do does the Diane Chamberlin one…You…was not a great reading experience for me.
LikeLike
I went back and forth on You….so many mixed feelings about whether or not to get it…now I have it, for better or worse…LOL.
I am also looking forward to the Jio and Chamberlain books. Thanks for stopping by, Patty.
LikeLike
You got some great books this week – I’m looking forward to read You. My girls loved it.
Have a great week!
LikeLike
Oh, that’s good to know, Glass…some loved it, while others hated it. Thanks for stopping by, and enjoy your week.
LikeLike
Wow! What a great week you had! So many great books this week!
LikeLike
Thanks, Rabbit Ears…so glad you could stop in and enjoy my week.
LikeLike
You’re welcome! 😀
http://rabbitearsblog.wordpress.com/2014/11/30/the-sunday-post-meme-4/
LikeLike
As usual, the Thanksgiving party was at our house. I love hosting mostly because we have room for a crowd, no gifts are involved and everyone brings a dish to share (we do the turkey and stuffing). Now on to Christmas 🙂
I think Walking on Trampolines sounds interesting and I love the cover of the Jio book. Have a good week!
LikeLike
Thanks, Mary, and your holiday sounds wonderful. That’s what we used to do…have it at my house, with people bringing a dish….until I downsized…LOL. I am eager to read the Jio book…and I also think Walking on Trampolines looks good.
LikeLike
Lots of good reads are waiting for you. Enjoy!
readerbuzz.blogspot.com
LikeLike
I agree, Deb….thanks for stopping by, and have a great week!
LikeLike
Oooh, nice haul!
Cora @ Tea Party Princess
LikeLike
Thanks, Cora, glad you could stop by!
LikeLike
Some wonderful books this week. I see several I’ll be checking out as they are new authors to me.
Thanksgiving was relaxing and then I started decorating the tree and house for Christmas. Have to go out and get some cinnamon brooms and pine scented candles to make it smell festive now.
Here’s my Sunday Post – http://fuonlyknew.com/2014/11/30/whats-new-on-my-bookshelf-87-and-the-sunday-post/
LikeLike
Oh, that’s a great idea, Laura…I was considering starting on the Christmas decorations today. Enjoy! Thanks for stopping by.
LikeLike
Doesn’t look like our books overlap. Oh well.
We had an interesting Thanksgiving — we drove up the coast and went to a chichi restaurant. Then we had a college student who couldn’t get to the UK in their short break stay with us rather than be the only kid in the dorm by herself. It was fun to have a younger person around. We went shopping with real purpose – to find her a coat and gloves and warmer tops. Since we also had a big storm it gave her a real reason to get the warmer stuff.
LikeLike
and here is my Sun Post: http://fangswandsandfairydust.com/2014/11/sunday-love.html
LikeLike
Your Thanksgiving sounds lovely…I enjoy going out on the day, too. Thanks for stopping by and have a great week, Steph.
LikeLike
Sparky must be very happy! 😀 The Chamberlain book looks good. 🙂
We had a white Thanksgiving, about 5 inches of snow mixed with freezing rain. Gah. But it was a good day and I’m glad you had a good day.
LikeLike
Ah, yes, I hope Sparky will continue to perform beautifully, now that she is four years old! Yikes!
If I have to upgrade, the new one will be Sparky II.
Thanks for stopping by, Bea, and sorry about the freezing rain….
LikeLike
Amazing haul this week, the Chamberlain book looks really good and I am glad you got You. I am anxious to begin my copy.
LikeLike
I have heard mixed reactions to You…but I’m willing to give it a go. And I can’t believe I missed this Chamberlain book when it came out, but now I’m eager to read it. Thanks for visiting, Kimba.
LikeLike
Great books on your list! The Sarah Jio and Diane Chamberlain books look really good. Enjoy and have a great week!
LikeLike
I think so, too, Yvonne…and I am very happy to have them on my Sparky. Enjoy your week and thanks for stopping by.
LikeLike
Your books look awesome! I hope you had a wonderful weekend! 🙂
Tracy @ Cornerfolds
LikeLike
Thanks, Tracy, I have enjoyed every moment. Family, quiet time, and the start of my Christmas decor. Glad you could stop by.
LikeLike
Turkey hangover is a great way to describe it- man did I eat too much! Looks like you had a nice Thanksgiving with family. Hope your weekend and week ahead are filled with good things- and reading too. 🙂
I like the look of some of your new arrivals- The Secrets of Midwives and The Life You’ve Imagined. And You looks a bit scary perhaps…
LikeLike
I am still enjoying the turkey hangover, as I brought leftovers home…LOL. Thanks for stopping by, Greg, and I am looking forward to the new books, too.
LikeLike
We had a good Thanksgiving. 🙂 Your books are new to me. I’ll have to check them out. Have a wonderful week!
LikeLike
Glad you had a great one, Voracious Reader…and thanks for stopping by.
LikeLike
Lots of nice new books, I hope you enjoy them all.
Have a lovely week.
Sharon @ Sharon’s Book Nook!
LikeLike
I plan to do that, Sharon…and thanks for stopping by!
LikeLike
Really great books in your mailbox! I also recently received Walking on Trampolines- it looks so good. YOU is quite intense- can’t wait to hear what you think of it. Happy reading 🙂
LikeLike
I have seen such mixed reviews of You…eager to find out for myself. Thanks for stopping by, Lucy, and enjoy your week.
LikeLike
You’ve got some great reads coming up! I am tired of turkey, thankfully our leftovers are gone. I am not looking forward to that alarm tomorrow morning after fours days of not having to turn it on! Have a great week.
LikeLike
Yes, I think I’ve finally had my fill of turkey, Nise, which I didn’t think would ever happen…LOL. Thanks for stopping by and good luck with that alarm!
LikeLike
As usual some fabulous books. The Diane Chamberlain one looks so very good.
LikeLike
I think so, too, Mystica, and somehow this one of Chamberlain’s slipped by me when it first came out. Glad to have it now, though. Thanks for stopping by.
LikeLike
Glad you had a relaxing Thanksgiving! Oh my your book line-up is awesome! Is that a new Kristin Hannah? I love her writing! The Secrets of Midwives appeals to me as do all the family/friend dynamic storylines. Have a wonderful week and happy readign 🙂
LikeLike
Thanks, Teddyree, and I am loving this new Kristin Hannah. It is such a page turner, with WWII aspects during the Nazi occupation of France. Glad you could stop by, and enjoy your week!
LikeLike
I loved Walking on Trampolines…it’s by an Aussie author, I hope you enjoy it!
Have a great reading week,
Shelleyrae @ Book’d Out
LikeLike
Oh, I’m glad to hear it, Shelleyrae…and I have become very fond of several Aussie authors. Thanks for stopping by.
LikeLike
WOW, nice new selection, Laurel-Rain! I sense a very important theme here with friendship and motherhood on the forefront. Especially The Secret Life of CeeCee Wilkes appeals to me. It sounds very strong, and quite sad, too.
Have a fantastic week, and happy reading.
LikeLike
I agree, Lexxie; The Secret Life of CeeCee Wilkes came out a while ago, and I recall having my eye on it…and then, for some reason, I missed it! Glad to find it again, and thanks for stopping by.
LikeLike
Frances Whiting writes an hilarious post in a local (well, Statewide) Sunday newspaper and I’m a big fan. I’ve received her novel via NetGalley as well and can’t wait to read it!
Deb
LikeLike
Wow, I didn’t know that! Sounds like she could be a great new favorite for me, then. Thanks for stopping by, Deborah, and enjoy….
LikeLike
Glad you had a good Thanksgiving. You’ve got a of books there that are totally new to me, but I know you’ll help me decide which ones belong on my wish list 😉
I finished The Paying Guests on audio last week… it was definitely too long, but I’m still thinking about the characters. Will be curious to hear what you think.
LikeLike
Yes, I was a bit put off by the length, but if the characters keep me engaged, it should be fine. Thanks for visiting, JoAnn, and have a great week!
LikeLike
Happy reading
LikeLike
Thanks, Serena, you too!
LikeLike
We had a wonderful Thanksgiving and bought our first Christmas gift today. All of your new books look wonderful!
LikeLike
Wow, good for you, Kathy! And thanks for stopping by…I am eager to read all of my books. Enjoy your week.
LikeLike
Just catching up after being away for the holiday weekend. I think I have all of the books you received last week on my tbr wishlist! Let’s see who gets through them first…….lol, I’m sure it won’t be me since I don’t own most of them yet 🙂
LikeLike
Thanks for stopping by, Donna, and I hope you enjoy them all, too.
LikeLike
Hi Lorraine,
It sounds as though all my US friends had a fantastic Thanksgiving weekend, whilst us Brits are beginning to wind up for Christmas, albeit in this still unseasonably mild and damp weather.
Despite the holidays, you seem to have amassed one of the biggest hauls of the week and for me personally, one of the best. If I add to my ‘Want To Read’ list, all the titles I like the sound of, Goodreads will be banning me from its pages!!
I too, particularly like the sound of the Diane Chamberlain, also the Lisa Scottoline and the Sarah Waters. I also fancy the Caroline Kepnes, simply because I am intrigued by the bookshop setting, although I am not that keen on the cover art.
Mmmm! Just one for my list? …. Caroline Kepnes, as she is a new to me author and it sounds like a spooky murder mystery.
Thanks for sharing and have a good week.
Yvonne
LikeLike
Thanks, Yvonne, glad you loved my haul…hope you enjoy them too! I am a big fan of both Diane Chamberlain and Lisa Scottoline…and hope to add Sarah Waters to my list, too. This one will be my first by this author.
LikeLike
You alwasy find such interesting books! I’m glad you had a nice Thanksgiving, and wish you the best as we head into the holiday season!
LikeLike
Thanks, Lark, and I am glad you could stop by and peruse them. Enjoy your week!
LikeLike
I can’t wait to start THE SECRETS OF THE MIDWIVES.
Ooooo on the Diane Chamberlain book…going to check it out. THANKS.
I love the mantel. Is the brown top interchangeable for holidays?
ENJOY all your books and your reading week.
Elizabeth
Silver’s Reviews
My Mailbox Monday
LikeLike
Hmm, no the mantle stays brown….but the items could be changed out, I’m sure…LOL.
Thanks for stopping by, Elizabeth, and enjoy your week, too!
LikeLike
A lot of great reading ahead for you.
LikeLike
Thanks, Mary Ann, and I’m looking forward to it!
LikeLike
Looks like you had a very happy mailbox last week! They all sound good!
LikeLike
Yes, happy mailbox and happy Sparky. Thanks for stopping by, Vicki.
LikeLike
Awesome books you got there as always. The covers are gorgeous. Happy reading! ♥
WeeklyWrap@EverythingNyze
LikeLike
Thanks, Nyze…glad you could stop by!
LikeLiked by 1 person
The Look of Love sounds good, hope you enjoy!
LikeLike
Me, too, Brandi…looking forward to it!
LikeLike
You was an unusual book – creepy type unusual. I can’t wait to read your review! I’m listening to The Paying Guests now. I had a little trouble getting into it, but now it’s good!
LikeLike
Oh, that is good to know; sometimes creepy is good…and I imagined that The Paying Guests might be a challenge. Thanks for stopping by, Leslie.
LikeLike