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November 2021 Book Recommendations

 

 

Physical Books:

 

The Sun Down Motel

by Simone St. James

Let’s kick things off with a book you’d NEVER expect to see here – The Sun Down Motel. This…is a scary book. But…it’s AMAZING. I generally dislike both thrillers and the feeling of being scared. However, the writing and story set up in this novel makes it entirely worthwhile. Plus, once you generally figure out the ghosts’ backstory, they become far less terrifying.

This thriller goes back and forth between two time periods at the creepy Sun Down Motel. A woman returns to this spot, where her aunt disappeared decades ago to try to find out the real story.

5 Stars | Amazon | Bookshop.org

 

 

Keeper of The Lost Cities

by Shannon Messenger

I realize I said this post would be strictly holiday related books, but this is worthy of an exception. This YA / middle grade fantasy book is reminiscent of Harry Potter and I absolutely devoured it. 

A teenager who has been able to read minds since she was 5 has her world turned upside down when she discovers she’s actually an elf and there’s a whole world outside of the human one she knows. She leaves her life behind to begin training as an elf. However, when her powers show themselves to be stronger than anyone has ever seen, she becomes entangled in deadly serious problems. 

5 Stars | Amazon | Bookshop.org

 

 

A Season For Second Chances

by Jenny Bayliss

This novel is perfect for anyone who doesn’t want a strictly Christmas related novel. The book takes place over the course of the entire fall and winter season, so you get all the lovely seasonal changes plus all the holidays!

Annie is looking for a change, so when an opportunity to be a winter caretaker of a seaside cottage arises, it seems like a godsend.

She is charmed by her new town and neighbors, but discovers the homeowner’s nephew will be a constant thorn in her side. As the holidays approach and tensions rise, we’ll discover if a little small town spirit can get her through this difficult time

4 Stars | Amazon | Bookshop.org

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Ex Hex

by Erin Hawkins

There’s no denying that this cover is ridiculously cute, but sadly the story didn’t quite live up to the hype. The story veered a little too far into cheesy, even for me. It was a fun read for Halloween, but there are plenty of other great romances out there for the rest of the year.

Vivienne accidentally cursed an old boyfriend almost a decade ago after he broke her heart. Now he’s back in town and the curse has gotten out of control. They’re forced to work together to make things right.

3 Stars | Amazon | Bookshop.org

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Save For Later!

 

 

 

 

 

eBooks (reading from Netgalley / Library):

 

 

 

The Christmas Bookshop

by Jenny Colgan

Jenny Colgan does it again! Her Christmas novels have a special something that just makes me want to get lost in the holiday season.  The book also takes place in Edinburgh, which I now want to visit IMMEDIATELY. 

Carmen is NOT looking forward to spending the holidays with her ever so perfect sister and perfect little family. Unfortunately, she’s out of a job and has no other options. To bring in some much needed cash, Carmen agrees to revamp a dusty, disorganized bookshop. After a famous author takes a special interest in the bookshop as well, Carmen starts to realize there may be hope for her to get her life back in order.  

I also just published a list of all of Jenny Colgan’s books in order, plus my top 5 must reads if you want more of her!

4.5 Stars | Amazon | Bookshop.org

Duke, Actually

by Jenny Holiday

In addition to The Christmas Bookshop above, this was easily one of my favorite new Christmas books of 2021!

A royal wedding brings together a reckless Duke not ready to settle down and a New Yorker who’s sworn off love. With their best friends on the way to the alter, Maximillian and Dani have plenty of opportunities to get to know each other. They hit it off immediately as friends since they’re both not looking for a relationship.

This turned into a friendship that was filled with undeniable sparks! I loved how Max and Dani continuously showed up for each other and laid the foundation of their relationship on supporting each other.

4.5 Stars | Amazon | Bookshop.org

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

AudioBooks:

 

A Lot Like Adios

by Alexis Daria

TV show star Jasmine is swearing off men and focusing on her career. A new opportunity gives her the chance to truly break through to the big leagues, but she’s derailed by her attraction to her new co-star. Will she be able to keep her priorities straight? Or will she allow this hidden gem of a man to rearrange what she wants most in the world.

I had very high hopes going in to this, but found myself putting on podcasts or music instead once I hit the second half of the book. I think the storyline felt a bit repetitive and slow, but I can possibly chalk that up to listening on audio instead of reading at my own pace.

3 Stars | Amazon | Bookshop.org

 

 

 

 

 

 

What was the best book you read recently?

 

For more mini book reviews, check out What I Read in October 2021!