apagetoturn's reviews
1352 reviews

K.M. Jackson delivers a laugh-out-loud, heartwarming rom-com in How to Marry Keanu Reeves in 90 Days, a delightful story of celebrity crushes, friendship, and self-discovery.

The novel follows Bethany Lu Carlisle, a talented but slightly chaotic artist whose life is turned upside down when she learns that Keanu Reeves—her lifelong crush and the internet’s favorite boyfriend—is reportedly getting married. What follows is a hilarious and whirlwind road trip from New York to Los Angeles, as Lu, with her loyal best friend Truman Erikson by her side, attempts to stop the impending nuptials and finally meet the man of her dreams.

Jackson skillfully balances humor and heartfelt moments. Lu is a wonderfully relatable protagonist: impulsive, quirky, and stubborn, but also deeply vulnerable as she confronts her fear of missed opportunities and growing older. Truman, her steady and endlessly supportive BFF, is the perfect foil—charming, reliable, and clearly harboring unspoken feelings for Lu. Their banter is sharp and endearing, and their evolving dynamic provides the story with emotional depth.

The road trip itself is a treasure trove of hijinks, complete with unexpected detours, embarrassing missteps, and moments of tender introspection. As Lu and True navigate their journey, readers are treated to a story that is as much about finding oneself as it is about finding love.

Jackson also cleverly uses Lu’s obsession with Keanu Reeves to explore the nature of celebrity worship and how it reflects our own desires and insecurities. The book’s resolution is both satisfying and uplifting, reminding readers that sometimes the love we’ve been chasing has been beside us all along.

How to Marry Keanu Reeves in 90 Days is a feel-good story with sharp wit, lovable characters, and a central romance that will have readers swooning. Fans of road trip adventures and best-friends-to-lovers romances will adore this book. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a joyful, escapist read with a healthy dose of Keanu magic.

Absolutely loved this story. Read it in 24 hours. 

 

PJ Nelson’s Book for Murder is an atmospheric southern cozy mystery with a charming premise, but it struggles to fully deliver on its potential. While the small-town Georgia setting and quirky bookstore backdrop create a delightful and intriguing ambiance, the pacing and character development leave something to be desired.

Madeline Brimley, the spirited protagonist, is a mix of determination and drama, which suits her backstory as a failed actress. Her return to the small town of Enigma and the inheritance of her Aunt Rose’s eccentric bookstore offer the perfect setup for a cozy mystery. The Victorian mansion-turned-bookstore is vividly described, adding a sense of place that’s rich and engaging.

However, the story’s execution feels uneven. While the threats and mysterious fires initially create tension, the plot takes a while to build momentum. The pacing falters with long stretches of exposition and Madeline’s inner monologue, which often feels repetitive and slows the narrative down. The murder mystery, while intriguing, lacks the complexity and twists needed to keep readers fully engaged, and the resolution feels rushed and somewhat predictable. 

The supporting cast of small-town characters has potential, but many of them are underdeveloped. Their quirks are more surface-level than substantial, making it difficult to connect with them or to fully invest in the web of secrets Madeline is trying to unravel.

That said, the book has its strengths. The southern charm, atmospheric setting, and cozy mystery tropes make it an enjoyable, if not groundbreaking, read. Nelson’s writing shines when describing the gothic elements of the Victorian mansion and the cozy yet eerie feel of the bookstore.

Book for Murder is a light and entertaining read, perfect for fans of southern cozy mysteries looking for a quick escape. However, its uneven pacing and lack of character depth prevent it from standing out in the genre. 

 Jaqueline Snowe’s Snowed In for Christmas is a delightful holiday romcom that perfectly blends sizzling chemistry, laugh-out-loud humor, and a generous dose of Christmas cheer. Fans of grumpy/sunshine pairings and forced-proximity tropes will be absolutely charmed by this festive debut. 

 

The forced proximity during the blizzard is the perfect setup for romance. As the snow falls and power outages force Becca and Harrison to hunker down together, their walls begin to crumble. Snowe masterfully builds tension, balancing banter, heartfelt conversations, and moments of undeniable heat. The chemistry between Becca and Harrison feels authentic, and readers will root for them as they navigate their undeniable connection and the emotional baggage holding them back.

What sets this book apart is the balance of humor and heart. Becca’s witty inner monologue and her ability to draw out Harrison’s softer side bring levity, while the exploration of their vulnerabilities and fears adds emotional depth. The holiday setting—complete with cozy fires, hot cocoa, and snow-covered scenery—wraps the story in a festive glow, making it a perfect seasonal read.

 Snowed In for Christmas is the kind of book that feels like a warm hug on a cold winter night. Becca and Harrison’s story is proof that sometimes, love can thaw even the iciest hearts. 

 Courtney Cole delivers a tender, magical tale in A Wish for Christmas, a story that explores the complexities of love, regret, and the enduring power of second chances. 

Cole’s writing shines with evocative descriptions of the snowy, enchanting holiday backdrop, adding warmth and atmosphere to an already touching story. The themes of forgiveness, self-discovery, and the enduring strength of love are woven seamlessly throughout, making this book more than just a holiday romance—it’s a heartfelt celebration of the resilience of relationships. 

The magic of the story lies in its transformation. Watching Noel and Jonah rediscover what drew them together in the first place—through new eyes and fresh circumstances—is both heartwarming and poignant. Their chance encounter in their “new lives” is beautifully crafted, filled with moments that tug at the heartstrings and remind readers of the power of fate and connection. 
 

Highly recommended for anyone looking to feel the magic of love and Christmas all over again. 

Ally Carter has outdone herself with The Most Wonderful Crime of the Year! This book was the ideal combination of a cozy mystery, a laugh-out-loud romantic comedy, and a festive holiday read. I couldn’t put it down!

The premise alone had me hooked: a snowed-in Christmas party, a locked-room disappearance, and two rival authors forced to team up. Maggie Chase and Ethan Wyatt were absolute perfection as leads. Their banter crackled with wit, their rivalry kept me grinning, and the slow-burn chemistry? Chef’s kiss. From the moment Ethan called her “Marcie,” I knew I was in for a treat.

The setting—a secluded English manor in the midst of a snowstorm—was straight out of a dream, complete with that Agatha Christie-esque charm. And while the mystery itself kept me guessing until the very end, it was the rom-com twist that elevated this book to a whole new level. Think Knives Out meets The Holiday, but with a dash of literary snark and swoon-worthy moments. If you’ve ever wished for the movie Clue set at Christmas, this book is your holiday miracle!

Ally Carter also sprinkled in just the right amount of holiday magic. The stakes were high, the humor was sharp, and the romance was perfectly timed. I loved watching Maggie and Ethan reluctantly learn to trust each other, navigating clues and their growing feelings amidst the chaos.

If you’re a fan of cozy mysteries, romantic comedies, or just need a book that will make you smile, The Most Wonderful Crime of the Year is an absolute must-read. I’ll be revisiting this one every holiday season—it’s that good! Highly recommend! 🎄🔎❤️