The Unwedding by Ally Condie delivered an intriguing thriller that pulled me in from the setting to the cast of characters. A REESE’S BOOK CLUB PICK, I recommend the audiobook narrated by Christine Lakin.

The Unwedding
by Ally Condie
Narrator: Christine Lakin
Genres: Thriller
Source: Publisher
Purchase*: Amazon | Audible *affiliate

Rating:
Narration: 5 cups Speed: 1.5x

The White Lotus meets Agatha Christie in this bold novel from a #1 New York Times bestselling author: a recent divorcee’s exclusive Big Sur resort vacation unravels when she discovers a dead body on the day of a wedding.

Ellery Wainwright is alone at the edge of the world.

She and her husband, Luke, were supposed to spend their twentieth wedding anniversary together at the luxurious Resort at Broken Point in Big Sur, California. Where better to celebrate a marriage, a family, and a life together than at one of the most stunning places on earth?

But now, she’s traveling solo.

To add insult to injury, there’s a wedding at Broken Point scheduled during her stay. Ellery remembers how it felt to be on the cusp of everything new and wonderful, with a loved and certain future glimmering just ahead. Now, she isn’t certain of anything except for her love for her kids and her growing realization that this place, though beautiful, is unsettling.

When Ellery discovers the body of the groom floating in the pool in the rain, she realizes that she is not the only one whose future is no longer guaranteed. Before the police can reach Broken Point, a mudslide takes out the road to the resort, leaving the guests trapped. When another guest dies, it’s clear something horrible is brewing.

Everyone at Broken Point has a secret. And everyone has a shadow. Including Ellery.

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A fellow blogger enjoyed this one, and when the audiobook became available for review, I dove in. I love a good closed door murder mystery and The Unwedding delivered a suspenseful tale with interesting characters. The tension built until the twisty reveal.

Ellery Wainwright and her husband Luke booked a twentieth wedding anniversary vacation at a luxurious Resort at Broken Point in Big Sur, California. Unfortunately, the marriage didn’t survive to celebrate, and Ellery, still reeling from the divorce and upheaval, takes the non-refundable vacation solo.

Ellery arrives to find a wedding is taking place at the resort and reflects on how she felt at her own wedding, her broken marriage and children. The story is both a mystery thriller and a journey of self-growth and reflection for Ellery.

When Ellery discovers the groom face down in the pool and the resort is cut off from the mainland before police can arrive, Ellery along with fellow guests, Simon and Nina, play amateur sleuths. I loved the tension that built with the list of suspects and the twists along the way.

All the threads pulled together at the end, delivering a satisfying conclusion to the mystery. I, however, would have preferred more thriller aspects and less focus on Ellery’s own reflections. I can appreciate why Reese picked this for her club.

Narrator Christine Lakin added to my enjoyment of the story and captured Ellery’s emotions and those of the other characters.

Amazon | Audible

Reading this book contributed to these challenges:

• 2024 Audiobook Challenge

Source

Original source: https://caffeinatedbookreviewer.com/2024/07/the-unwedding-by-ally-condie.html

Timothy Gets Stuck, by Mark Lawrence, is a delightful and educational tale that highlights the values of friendship, responsibility, and listening to advice. The story centers on Timothy, a bright red tip truck who takes great pride in his work, enjoying the process of loading and unloading dirt to keep areas clean. On a Monday morning, Timothy heads to a park for his assignment and reunites with his friend, Lisa the Loader. Lisa cautions him about the soft ground following the weekend rain and advises him to stick to safe areas. Together, they successfully restore the local park, demonstrating effective teamwork. However, when left alone, Timothy forgets Lisa’s advice and is tempted to play in the puddles, leading to his tires getting stuck in the mud. Feeling sad and scared, Timothy is relieved when Lisa, still nearby, comes to his rescue.

Lawrence’s narrative delivers important lessons through an engaging storyline. The book underscores the significance of teamwork, heeding warnings, and listening to advice, making it particularly beneficial for children learning to follow instructions for safe play and social integration. The story also promotes environmental care and tidiness, woven naturally into the plot. The characters of Timothy and Lisa are charming and interact seamlessly, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The colorful illustrations bring the story to life, featuring expressive characters that captivate young readers. The dialogue flows naturally, with Timothy and Lisa cheerfully conversing as they work and explore the park, adding to the story’s appeal.

Timothy Gets Stuck effectively teaches children the value of learning from their mistakes and the importance of attentive listening. Mark Lawrence’s love for nature and insightful life lessons shine through, making this book an invaluable resource for young readers. This engaging and heartwarming story is perfect for teaching children about active listening and nurturing friendships.

Pages: 20 | ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0CLZ45KXD

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/07/01/timothy-gets-stuck/

Who is Living in Apartment 203?, by Cheryl Johnson, is an engaging teen fiction novel that masterfully intertwines themes of adolescence, mystery, and friendship. The story follows Richard, a bright yet impulsive high school student, as he navigates the turbulent waters of teenage life, dealing with peer pressure, the pangs of first love, and the complexities of personal loss. Alongside his loyal best friend Josh and Josh’s perceptive cousin Kelly, Richard embarks on a captivating adventure to solve the enigma surrounding their new neighbor in Apartment 203.

Richard’s character is a genuine and relatable depiction of a modern teenager grappling with the challenges of growing up. His impulsive nature and occasional recklessness add authenticity to the narrative, illustrating his struggle with the conflicting demands of peer pressure, love, and personal loss. As he delves deeper into the mystery of the enigmatic neighbor, his determination and resilience shine through, adding excitement and depth to the story. While his impetuous actions sometimes lead to trouble and disrupt the narrative flow, they also humanize him, making his journey all the more compelling.

Josh and Kelly serve as strong supporting characters, each bringing their unique strengths to the story. Josh’s unwavering friendship provides Richard with a stabilizing force amidst his chaotic teenage experiences, while Kelly’s keen insights offer a refreshing and thoughtful perspective. Their interactions with Richard enhance the narrative, highlighting the crucial role of a supportive network in overcoming life’s challenges and reinforcing the theme of friendship. The mysterious neighbor adds well-crafted intrigue and suspense to keep the plot moving forward. Her enigmatic presence and the unfolding revelations about her true identity captivate the reader, maintaining a steady level of engagement throughout the book.

Who is Living in Apartment 203? is a compelling read that skillfully balances the trials of adolescence with an intriguing mystery. Cheryl Johnson’s ability to create relatable characters and an engaging plot makes this book a worthwhile read for teens and anyone who enjoys a well-told coming-of-age story infused with mystery.

Pages: 64 | ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0D24J81X7

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/07/01/who-is-living-in-apartment-203/

Family unity helps instill values such as respect and mutual support. Victoria Smith embraces this idea beautifully in Priscilla and Tux: Brothers are Caring. The story centers on eight-year-old Priscilla, who is worried about her school’s show-and-tell presentations. All her classmates are showcasing interesting, original, and unique items, so she wants to share something truly special. Her mom tries to help by giving her suggestions, but nothing seems good enough for Priscilla. However, when she sees her brother Tux being friendly and telling jokes to his friends, she realizes he can help her solve her problem.

Victoria Smith shares a sweet story about an everyday situation, giving it a creative and enthusiastic touch. I appreciated how the story develops because it implicitly addresses various themes. For example, the classmates’ presentations showcase cultural and religious diversity and feature different hobbies like board games and sports. There are many great ideas for new activities for kids. The story also highlights the importance of good communication and the pleasure of being in a respectful and friendly environment.

Sergii Zavadskyi’s illustrations are captivating with their vibrant colors and varied, expressive characters. The language is clear, making it suitable for practicing reading and enriching vocabulary with the items shown in the classroom presentations. Priscilla and her brother Tux’s relationship is one of the narrative’s most beautiful features, imparting young readers with a positive example of family interaction.

Priscilla and Tux: Brothers are Caring is highly recommended, celebrating family love and the joy of sharing meaningful moments. It is an engaging and heartwarming story that not only entertains but also teaches valuable life lessons, making it a wonderful addition to any child’s bookshelf.

Pages: 34 | ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0CGQBY7Z2

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/07/01/priscilla-and-tux-brothers-are-caring-a-picture-book-for-kids/

Hemingway’s Treasure: Cam Derringer Series Book 5, by Mac Fortner, is an engaging blend of mystery, adventure, and historical intrigue. The story follows Alex Stone, who wakes up in Cuba with no memory of who he is or how he got there. As he struggles to piece together his identity, he becomes entangled in a complex web of espionage, betrayal, and a quest for a hidden treasure linked to Ernest Hemingway himself. The narrative takes readers from the gritty streets of Cuba to the sun-soaked locales of Key West, weaving a tale that is as rich in atmosphere as it is in suspense.

Fortner’s writing shines with vivid descriptions and a keen sense of place. The portrayal of Cuba, in particular, stands out with its vibrant and sometimes harsh realities. The author’s ability to create such a vivid sense of place makes the book a visual and sensory experience, drawing readers into the heart of the story. The character development is another highlight. Alex Stone’s journey from confusion to clarity is compelling, and his interactions with Ernesto Cabrera and Liliana add depth to the narrative. Ernesto’s revelation about his past with Hemingway and the hidden treasure adds a layer of historical intrigue that enriches the plot.

The relationship dynamics are well-crafted, particularly the bond between Alex and the enigmatic Liliana, which evolves with a mix of tension and tenderness. The pacing of the novel is dynamic, with the initial chapters setting a gripping tone that captivates the reader. The author provides extensive background details that enrich the story and add depth to the plot, ensuring a well-rounded and engaging reading experience. Fortner’s knack for cliffhangers and unexpected twists keeps the reader engaged and eager to uncover the next piece of the puzzle.

Hemingway’s Treasure: Cam Derringer Series Book 5 is a captivating read that will appeal to fans of historical mysteries and adventure novels. Fortner successfully combines a compelling storyline with rich character development and evocative settings. This book is perfect for readers who enjoy unraveling intricate plots and exploring historical connections. Whether you are a Hemingway aficionado or simply looking for an engrossing mystery, this book is a treasure trove of literary enjoyment.

Pages: 289 | ASIN ‏ : ‎ B07Z5GXVPY

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/07/01/hemingways-treasure-cam-derringer-series-book-5/

A Butterfly’s Song follows a young plain butterfly who feels that there is nothing special about herself, making her feel all alone. What was the inspiration for your story?

The story of the Pupa butterfly has ingredients from the reality of today’s children and young people. From that world where often the loudest, bravest, and, in different ways, the most “colorful” personalities get the most attention.

Of course, not everyone is an extrovert who loves to show off and enjoys performing in front of others. Such persons are often idealized and presented as admirable role models in public, though. This perception quickly spreads, especially among children and young people at a tender age, putting their developing self-esteem to the test.

I wrote my story to encourage those who feel they can’t live up to the expectations placed on them. Sometimes, those expectations come from around the individual in the form of different requirements regarding appearance, behavior, or skills. Sometimes, the person is unsatisfied with himself and feels inferior to others, even if no one notices it.

Of course, those who feel alone, insecure, and without support are in the most challenging position with their insecurities. In my story, the wind represents the help that can sometimes come from a surprising direction.

We all have moments when we wish such a gentle wind would take us in its arms and blow our wings with new energy. It might help us regain confidence and trust in flying – or singing – our way.

Pupa worries about being plain and ordinary and not standing out. What were the driving ideals behind her development in this story?

In my story, A Butterfly’s Song, we follow Pupa’s first moments when she emerges from her cocoon as a butterfly. It is a shock to enter a new life situation and adapt to an unfamiliar environment. Just getting her wings open and ready to fly is challenging.

The first task is facing that initial shock. After figuring it out, Pupa is even happy and enthusiastic momentarily and tries to adapt to the company of colorful butterflies she admires. She fails.

An individual who is more modest than the others is overlooked and ignored. In addition to sadness, we can also notice some envy toward others in Pupa. She should get those feelings under control, but how? As the next step, she tries to imitate the nightingale, but the butterfly cannot sing. So, Pupa runs into her unrealistic dreams.

The encounter between the butterfly and the wind is a crucial moment in this fairy tale. The wind represents a gentle and understanding helper, and Pupa is lucky to find such help. Our modest butterfly overcomes her most difficult feelings of loneliness and inadequacy with the help of the wind, but she must eventually learn to accept herself as she really is.

At the end of the story, Pupa finds and accepts her own place and role in life. She even understands that being alive with all the beauty around her is a gift from life.

What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?

Through this butterfly’s life, we go through many growth phases and situations familiar to everyone – child or adult. The story highlights the difficulties one faces in new situations. The reason may be an unfamiliar environment and a missing support network. Our self-esteem and trust in survival may also be weak.

This little story helps us imagine and experience living in such situations by allowing us to see the unknown world through the eyes of a fairy tale character. Encountering anything new and unknown is always challenging. Even in a familiar place, you can face difficulties if the people around you change or the demands increase. Facing and mastering the changed situation takes energy and time.

Finally, I would like to emphasize two more educational aspects that must be remembered. The first is that in times of trouble, it is important to seek reliable help. Inadequacy of one’s skills or strength is not a shame. Equally important is not to let anyone outside define what we should be like. Following your own heart and reason usually shows the best way.

What is the next book that you are working on and when will that be published?

I’ve just received the artists’ illustrations for several of my stories. So I can transfer them out of my hands for the next steps of book projects.

Of course, I still participate in the commentary of the layout stage. For example, I’m working on two stories about exceptional houses set in India – The Old Rose Villa and The Dream House. That pair of books is exceptional in many respects. Namely, I have received the stories’ subjects and a request to write them from an Indian friend.

I also wanted to find an Indian illustrator for the books because I want them to respect and reflect Indian culture. I came across Akanksha Priya, who interpreted the stories beautifully in hand-painted pictures. The results of our cooperation will be available for everyone to see later this year.

Finally, I would like to mention another story that is very close to my heart. I won’t even reveal the book’s name yet, but I hope the story fits in with UNESCO’s Indigenous Languages Decade (2022–2032). It would be great to work on this important issue. With my story, I want to bring out the uniqueness and sensitivity of human communities, nature, and different life forms. That is one of my dreams.

Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | Amazon

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Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/07/01/following-your-own-heart-and-reason/