I've been MIA so in good conscience could not call this a "monthly" review. We spent a week in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico just after Thanksgiving and with the holiday season already so short due to how close Thanksgiving and Christmas were it just flew by.
Amidst vacationing, losing my beloved kitty, Mina, baking and a crazy work schedule, I snuck three books in November and December.
In the Shadow Garden by Liz Parker gave me Practical Magic meets Hope Floats vibes. The Haywood women of Yarrow, Kentucky are known for reading tea leaves and their shadow garden, and Yarrow is known for bourbon. When you blend the two you get magic and mystery.
The Small and the Mighty by Sharon McMahon (America's government teacher whose followers are known as the Governerds) chronicles 12 lesser-known Americans who made a significant impact on history. I was moved by Gouverneur Morris who wrote the preamble to the Constitution, Septima Clark who is responsible for the literacy of countless black Americans, Clara Brown who helped establish Colorado's prominence during the Gold Rush, and the nine other inspiring people who helped shaped this great nation.
The Christmas Orphans Club by Becca Freeman was a cute read about four friends who spend every Christmas together. It was way too long but had a very satisfying end and delightful characters.
21 books total for 2024 and my top 5:
