Seasons Readings

'Tis the season to be gift-giving, and there is nothing better than giving someone a great book. Or receiving one -- I love getting books. I am something of a book hoarder curator. I love the feel of turning the pages of a good book that you feel you can't put down - even to take that delicious sip of your favorite beverage. The idea of curling up in front of the fire in a comfortable chair as you lose yourself in another world, I think is one of the best gifts you can give to someone.

Here are two 5-star recommendations you may want to consider gifting to a family member, friend, or yourself. Don't be freaked out by the Romance genre, like I am sometimes. I see romance, and I think, yah- no, thank you - that's not my schtick, probably because I have a picture of my mother reading Barbara Cartland and Harlequin Romance novels when I was a kid.

But as I said, don't freak out because these two recommendations aren't anything like those cheesy romance novels.

Thriller - Romance

I realize Verity by Colleen Hoover has been around for a few years, but some of you may have missed it. It was voted Best Romance on Goodreads for 2019. I didn't put it on my TBR List until 2021, and I finally listened to the book in June 2022. It was the first Colleen Hoover book I had ever read/listened to.

Wow! I was hooked. Colleen Hoover's Verity is an absolute masterpiece that utterly captivated me. From the moment I started the Audible audiobook, narrated by the talented Vanessa Johansson and Amy Langdon, I knew I was in for a gripping experience.

The narrative unfolds through the compelling voices of two characters: a young writer tasked with continuing another author's series after a devastating accident and the incapacitated author herself.

Verity takes readers on a thrilling rollercoaster of deceit, manipulation, and unimaginable darkness. It delves into some incredibly twisted and shocking territory, pushing the boundaries of conventional storytelling.

While it's important to note that there is a significant amount of explicit content in this book, including sexual themes, it's worth emphasizing that this aspect is seamlessly integrated into the larger narrative and enhances the raw intensity of the story.

I hesitate to reveal too much about the story because its power lies in the unexpected twists and turns that keep you on the edge of your seat throughout. Suffice it to say that Hoover's storytelling prowess shines brightly in this novel.

Her ability to craft complex characters and build suspense is truly remarkable. Verity serves as a compelling introduction to Hoover's work, and after experiencing the profound impact of this book, I am now an ardent fan eagerly seeking out her other works.

Verity is an outstanding achievement in storytelling. It grabs hold of your emotions, refusing to let go until the final page. If you enjoy thrillers with an added layer of psychological depth and are open to exploring the darker aspects of human nature, this book is an absolute must-read.

I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone seeking an enthralling and thought-provoking literary journey. Bravo to Colleen Hoover for delivering such an exceptional piece of fiction!

Contemporary, Romance

Gabrielle Zevin's Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow is a fantastic gift for anyone who is into contemporary fiction. Zevin is currently working on the screenplay of her novel, which I am sure will be amazing. But you may want to read the book first.

I found myself completely engrossed in the lives of the three unique protagonists, each facing their own set of challenges and personal struggles.

What struck me most about this novel was the depth and complexity of the characters. Sam, Sadie, and Marx navigate the turbulent waters of life with all the authenticity of real people. They possess flaws, insecurities, and dreams that make them feel like old friends you can't help but root for.

The heart of this story lies in the enduring friendship between Sam and Sadie, which transcends time and trials. Their connection, born in a hospital room amidst pain and loss, is a powerful testament to the healing power of friendship.

Moreover, the story masterfully explores the profound relationship between art and life. Sam and Sadie's belief in the transformative potential of video games is both imaginative and thought-provoking. Their creations not only entertain but also challenge and inspire, profoundly impacting the world.

The narrative spans three decades, providing a rich tapestry of life experiences, love, loss, and creativity. Even as someone who isn't a hardcore gamer, I found myself reveling in the nostalgia of video games from my own childhood, a testament to the author's ability to make the story relatable and accessible to all readers.

I devoured this book over a weekend, its powerful storytelling swept me away. It's like riding a wave, carried along by the force of its narrative, unable to put it down until the final page.

Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin is a beautifully written, deeply moving novel that explores the significance of friendship, the transformative power of art, and the challenges of modern life.

It's a story that lingers long after you've turned the last page, leaving you with a sense of wonder and introspection. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone seeking a profound and unforgettable reading experience. It's a five-star gem that deserves a place on every bookshelf.

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I am an avid reader and book reviewer. I have written over 290 book reviews and read, on average, 60 books a year. You can follow my recommendation on Goodreads.