I’ll be sharing mini book reviews here on the blog.
(I borrowed each of these books from the library because I wanted to, all opinions are 100% honestly mine, and I’m not compensated in any way for writing them.)
My goal is to help you find books that you–or the young readers in your life–will love.
Eleanor Maybury and her sisters have spent the last five years secretly dancing in Faerie every Seventh Night. Now they’ve come to London for a debut Season in hopes of finding a good match. But the Faerie Queen’s invitation will end as soon as they get engaged. Could Eleanor possibly fall deeply enough in love to choose marriage over their precious visits to Faerie?
Due to the restoration of peace, James Weston has returned to England after seven years of service as a magician in the Royal Navy. He isn’t looking for a wife; he’s looking for a new career path. But he can’t deny that Eleanor is everything he’s ever wanted and more.
Can their love survive her family’s secret?
Enjoy this YA retelling of Grimm’s “Twelve Dancing Princesses,” set in a Regency London where Faeries are real and magic is an acceptable accomplishment for young ladies.
by Stephanie J. Scott
When her boyfriend shows up to a party with another girl the day before they’re supposed to leave for a summer abroad program in Brazil, Lila Vaughn cancels her tickets and stays home. Now she needs a job to pay her parents back for the cost of the trip, and the only place that’s hiring is the golf range—Matt’s old job, working with Matt’s friends. Can their mutual enmity morph into respect—or more?
If you like geekery, from robotics to Ren Faires—which I do—you’ll love this sweet romance. The characters are absolutely “adorkable,” and there’s a strong emphasis on loyalty, responsibility, honesty, and being true to yourself.
by Ernesto Cisneros
Efren is an American-born child of illegal Mexican immigrants living in Southern California. When his mother is caught by immigration officers and deported, Efren must balance caring for his younger twin siblings with his own school work and friendships, while also helping his father find a way to bring his mother back.
This story was beautiful and heartbreaking. The writing was excellent, though the consistent mix of Spanish and English words could be confusing at times. Despite the significant and heavy issues addressed in the story, there’s a strength, determination, and hope that runs through it. Definitely worth reading.
by Elizabeth Kirke
A semester abroad on a cruise ship. Magic that 21-year-old Jen didn’t know existed, let alone that she possessed. Stowaway vampires feeding on the passengers. And a group of new friends that have secrets and powers of their own.
I loved this book. There were some grammatical issues and a few bits I found boring, but I adored the characters and couldn’t wait to see what happened next. The descriptions of violence may not be appropriate for younger readers, so use caution. And if you need closure for all subplots at the end, be warned: a major subplot doesn’t get resolved until book 2, Snow Bound (which is also awesome and resolves nicely).
by Jessica Day George
When Anthea is sent to live with her uncle beyond the wall, she discovers that he is raising illegal horses—and that she can communicate with them.
I wish this book had been out when I was in elementary school. Even as an adult I loved the characters and the horses.
The Minister of the Treasuries has been brutally stabbed. Unfortunately for Miss Ella Highmoore’s godfather, the murder happened right on his doorstep, and now he’s the primary suspect. Ella knows her godfather is innocent, and she resolves to solve the crime and clear his name. A chance meeting with a young man named Charlie sets them both on the path to adventure and romance as they take on the challenge together. But Charlie has a secret, and when the truth comes out on the night of the prince’s ball, it looks like the end of their relationship. Ella is determined, however, that it won’t be the end of her investigation. She seeks the last few clues on her own, winding up in grave danger at the hands of the killer, and only Charlie knows enough about the case to rescue her.
Join the unstoppable Miss Ella Highmoore on the streets of Messene, a city based loosely on historical Regency London.
by Michelle MacQueen
She’s in training for a figure skating championship. He’s the star of the high school hockey team her father coaches. Their team needs desperate help, and he’s convinced she’s the best person to give it, even though her father has declared her off limits.
This was an adorable sweet romance. I loved that the actual sports details felt accurate, like the author is actually a hockey fan. The plot was predictable, but I liked the characters enough that I didn’t mind.
by L.M. Montgomery
Valancy Stirling is already considered an “old maid” at twenty-nine. She’s been a quiet, obedient daughter all her life, but when she receives a letter from her doctor predicting an imminent end to her life, she decides to make the most of her last year. Can she shake off her family’s controlling grip and find the life she was meant for before it’s too late?
Despite the somewhat morbid premise, this book is happy, hopeful, and fun. I love Valancy’s attitude and snarky wit. It is one of the sweetest romances I’ve read in the last year, and it’s definitely going on my list of books to read again.
by Nicola Yoon
Evie’s faith in love has been shaken by her parents’ divorce (and the secret knowledge of her father’s prior affair). A strange encounter at a Little Free Library leads to a startling discovery: when Evie sees a couple kiss, she can see their whole romance, start to finish. As she seeks answers, she finds herself at a ballroom dance studio. Can she let go of her fears and learn to dance with a handsome stranger? Can she regain her faith in love and in her family?
I loved this book, start to finish, but I’ll warn you: there are definite tear-jerker moments. I legit cried. It’s worth it, but be prepared.
by Jessica Day George
Castle Glower changes every Tuesday, throwing out a new wing or redecorating a room or changing the destination of a staircase. When Princess Celie’s family goes missing and treacherous men try to take over the kingdom, Celie and her siblings step up to the task of defending themselves, their people, and the castle that loves them as much as they love it.
I loved Castle Glower from the first page, and Celie is a delightful heroine. The characters are fun, and their defense strategy had me giggling. The ending felt a bit abrupt, but overall it’s a great book.