Long Island (Eilis Lacey Series)

Eilis Lacey has lived a life of quiet routine on the streets of Long Island, married to Tony Fiorello and trying to balance her love for her children with her lifelong connection to Ireland. Her life of suburban tranquility is disrupted when an unexpected visit from an old flame triggers a chain of events that will change her life forever. The news is that a child is on the way and will soon be sent to Eilis's doorstep.

The reason behind the child's arrival is a mysterious proposition left by the mother, who claims that Tony is the father. Eilis is faced with an impossible choice: accept the responsibility of raising another person's child or try to ignore it altogether. Her actions will lead to tension in her relationship with Tony, who is less willing to accept the responsibility, and will also force her to confront her own desires and sense of identity.

The story unfolds at a remarkable pace, drawing readers into Eilis's world of quiet introspection and tension as the situation spirals out of control. As the protagonist struggles with the decision ahead, the drifting bonds of relationships and her life as a mother are put to the test, leaving Eilis grappling with an intricate web of emotions and conflict.

I just finished reading a book that has left me with a lot of thoughts and emotions. The story revolves around a woman named Eilis Lacey, who has a life that seems ordinary on the surface. She is married to Tony and living in the suburbs, trying to balance her love for her children with her roots in Ireland. But when an old flame shows up, everything changes. Eilis is suddenly faced with an unexpected challenge that will force her to confront her own desires and sense of identity.

The reason behind the child's arrival is a mysterious proposition left by the mother, claiming that Tony is the father. This news shakes Eilis to her core, making her question her life and relationships. She is torn between accepting the responsibility of raising the child and trying to ignore it, which would mean causing tension in her relationship with Tony. I can imagine how difficult this must be for Eilis, as she is trying to navigate this emotional terrain while also caring for her own family. I have been in similar situations where I had to make tough decisions, and I can relate to Eilis's struggle. The irony is that the child's arrival brings up questions about Eilis's own sense of self and what she wants to become. As I read through the story, I felt like Eilis was trying to find herself all over again, and it was both painful and relatable to watch.

As the story unfolds, I found myself drawn into Eilis's world and invested in her journey. I loved watching her navigate the complexities of her relationships and emotions. The way the story spirals out of control is like a rollercoaster, taking you on a wild ride of ups and downs. What I cherish most about this book is how it reminds us that life is messy and unpredictable. We all have to face difficult choices and emotions, and it takes courage to confront them. As I closed the book, I couldn't help but think of my own life and the choices I've made. This book has given me so much to think about, and I will carry its lessons with me for a long time.

Rating: 4.2 / 5.0

I just finished reading a book that has left me with a lot of thoughts and emotions. The story revolves around a woman named Eilis Lacey, who has a life that seems ordinary on the surface. She is married to Tony and living in the suburbs, trying to balance her love for her children with her roots in Ireland. But when an old flame shows up, everything changes. Eilis is suddenly faced with an unexpected challenge that will force her to confront her own desires and sense of identity.

The reason behind the child's arrival is a mysterious proposition left by the mother, claiming that Tony is the father. This news shakes Eilis to her core, making her question her life and relationships. She is torn between accepting the responsibility of raising the child and trying to ignore it, which would mean causing tension in her relationship with Tony. I can imagine how difficult this must be for Eilis, as she is trying to navigate this emotional terrain while also caring for her own family.

The story unfolds at a remarkable pace, drawing readers into Eilis's world of quiet introspection and tension as the situation spirals out of control. As Eilis struggles with the decision ahead, the drifting bonds of relationships and her life as a mother are put to the test, leaving Eilis grappling with an intricate web of emotions and conflict. The child's arrival raises more questions than answers, and Eilis is left to figure out who she is and what she wants. The story is a heart-wrenching exploration of identity, family, and the choices we make.

A Gentleman and a Thief: The Daring Jewel Heists of a Jazz Age Rogue

This book tells the story of Arthur Barry, a man who became a legend in his own time as a skilled con artist and one of the most charming jewel thieves of the 20th century. Born in Canada in 1897, Barry moved to the United States at a young age and quickly developed a reputation as a smooth talker and a master of deception. He was able to charm his way into the homes of some of the wealthiest and most influential people in the country, including members of the royal family and well-known figures such as the Prince of Wales and Harry Houdini.

As the story unfolds, we see Barry execute some of the most audacious heists of the 1920s, stealing diamonds, pearls, and other gems worth almost $60 million today. His victims included a Rockefeller, an heiress to the Woolworth department store fortune, an oil magnate, Wall Street bigwigs, a top executive of automotive giant General Motors, and a famous polo player. Despite his success, Barry's personal life was marked by turmoil, particularly in his marriage to Anna Blake. He confessed to dozens of burglaries to protect his wife, and the two were infamous fugitives who evaded capture by staging a dramatic prison break when Anna became seriously ill.

A Gentleman and a Thief is not just a true story about a fascinating thief, but also a love story about Barry and his wife. The book is full of insight into our fascination with jewel heists and the suave, clever criminals who pull them off. It's a page-turning and escapist read that is sparkling with style and wit. With dozens of historic images, this book is a true page-turner that will keep you guessing until the very end.

I recently finished reading a captivating true story about a legendary con artist and jewel thief from the early 20th century. What struck me most about this story was the complexity of the main character, Arthur Barry, who was both a master of deception and a devoted husband. In a world where charm and wit were his greatest tools, Barry's personal life was marked by a deep sense of loyalty and love, particularly for his wife, Anna.

As I delved into the story, I found myself drawn into the world of high society and crime that Barry inhabited. The author masterfully weaves together the intricate details of each heist, painting a vivid picture of Barry's audacious plan to steal from some of the wealthiest and most influential people of the time. The level of detail and the excitement of these events kept me fully engaged, often to the point of the early hours of the morning. It's a testament to the power of the human spirit, and the lengths to which people will go to protect loved ones.

The story is a nuanced exploration of the human condition, touching on themes of loyalty, love, and the allure of a life of crime. Through Barry's journey, we see the blurred lines between right and wrong, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. The book is a masterful page-turner, packed with style, wit, and a healthy dose of nostalgia for a bygone era. What I appreciated most about this book was its ability to balance the thrilling aspects of the story with a deep understanding of the human heart, making for a deeply satisfying read that stays with you long after the final page.

Rating: 4.0 / 5.0

This captivating true story is a masterful blend of intrigue and romance that follows Arthur Barry, a charismatic and cunning con artist and jewel thief. The intricate details of his heists are woven together with a deep exploration of his personal life, revealing a complex and multifaceted individual driven by a mix of loyalty, love, and a desire for adventure. The level of detail and excitement in these events kept me fully engaged, and the nuances of Barry's journey shed light on the blurred lines between right and wrong, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

All the Colors of the Dark

When the truth is hidden, and the lies run deep, it's hard to know what's real. This book is a story about the darkness that can hide in plain sight, and the strength it takes to face it head-on. In the small town of Monta Clare, Missouri, a young girl's disappearance sets off a chain of events that will leave no one unscathed. The town is gripped with fear, and the search for answers becomes an all-consuming obsession. For Patch, a local boy who saves the girl, the journey to uncover the truth becomes a personal one, leaving him with scars that will haunt him for the rest of his life.

As Patch delves deeper into the mystery, he begins to uncover secrets that have been hidden for years. The web of lies and deceit is intricate, and the closer he gets to the truth, the more he realizes that nothing is as it seems. The line between right and wrong is blurred, and Patch must navigate a world where the truth is a luxury no one can afford. The author masterfully weaves together multiple narratives, each one more heart-wrenching than the last. The characters are complex, flawed, and relatable, making it impossible not to become invested in their stories. The author's writing is evocative, painting a vivid picture of a small town torn apart by fear and mistrust.

The author's skillful storytelling takes the reader on a rollercoaster ride of emotions, from the lowest depths of despair to the highest highs of hope. As Patch and those around him search for answers, they must confront their own demons and confront the darkness that has taken over their lives. The author's unique twist on this classic thriller adds a layer of complexity to the story, making it impossible to predict what will happen next. Will Patch find the truth, or will it consume him? Can the town ever heal from the wounds inflicted by the serial killer? The book's climax is a heart-stopping, tear-jerking shock that will leave you breathless and wanting more.

This book is a gripping and emotional rollercoaster that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. I remember reading a similar story in my younger years when I lost my best friend in a tragic accident. The feeling of despair and hopelessness that accompanied that loss still lingers, and the story that unfolds in this book had me feeling those same emotions all over again.

As Patch searches for answers, he uncovers a tangled web of secrets and lies that have been hiding in plain sight. The author masterfully weaves together multiple narratives that ultimately reveal the truth behind the girl's disappearance. The characters are multi-dimensional and complex, with their own struggles and demons that make them relatable and human. The author's writing is evocative, bringing the small town of Monta Clare to life in a way that's both haunting and heart-wrenching. The author's skillful storytelling takes the reader on a journey of twists and turns, making it impossible to predict what will happen next.

The climax of the book is a heart-stopping, tear-jerking moment that will leave you breathless and wanting more. The author's unique twist on the classic thriller genre adds a layer of complexity to the story that's both surprising and heart-wrenching. The questions that linger long after finishing the book are just as haunting as the story itself: how can a town heal from the wounds inflicted by a serial killer? Can Patch find the truth without losing himself in the process? These questions will stay with you long after you finish reading the book, leaving you with a lasting sense of unease and a newfound appreciation for the complexities of the human heart.

Rating: 4.0 / 5.0

This book is a heart-wrenching rollercoaster that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. I give it 4 out of 5 stars. The author masterfully weaves together multiple narratives to reveal the truth behind the girl's disappearance, leaving you guessing until the very end. The characters are complex and multi-dimensional, making it impossible not to become invested in their stories. The writing is evocative and haunting, bringing the small town of Monta Clare to life in a way that's both beautiful and terrifying. The climax is a heart-stopping moment that will leave you breathless and wanting more.

Love Unwritten (Lakefront Billionaires, 2)

As a hopeless romantic, Ellie Sinclair has been struggling to find her place in the world. She writes love songs for a living, but her own heart has been shattered in the past. After a painful breakup, she made a promise to herself to protect her heart at all costs. Her life is turned upside down when she meets Rafael Lopez, a wealthy entrepreneur who is also Ellie's son's father.

Their initial meeting is marked by a sense of obligation, as Ellie is tasked with watching Rafael's son while he is away on a business trip. However, as they spend more time together on a summer vacation on two beautiful islands, Ellie starts to develop feelings for Rafael that she thought she had long buried. Despite her best efforts to keep her emotions in check, she finds herself drawn to Rafael's charming and guarded nature. As they navigate their complicated feelings, Ellie can't help but wonder if she was wrong to let go of her secret crush on Rafael all those years ago.

As their relationship deepens, Ellie is forced to confront the choices she made in the past and the fears that have held her back. She must decide whether to take a chance on Rafael and risk getting hurt again or to play it safe and stick to her carefully constructed plan. The stakes are high, and the outcome is far from certain. Will Ellie be able to overcome her past heartaches and find love with Rafael, or will their relationship fall victim to the same pain that has haunted her for so long?

I just finished reading this incredible story, and I have to say that it completely captured my heart. The main character, Ellie, is a complex and multi-faceted individual, and I found myself drawn to her relatable struggles and vulnerabilities. As someone who has always believed in the power of love and relationships, I couldn't help but feel a sense of empathy for Ellie as she navigates her feelings and tries to make sense of her past.

What resonated with me most about this story was the way it explored the complexities of love, heartache, and vulnerability. Ellie's journey is a raw and honest portrayal of the human experience, and I appreciated how the author handled sensitive topics with kindness and compassion. I remember when I was younger, I had a close friend who went through a similar situation, and it struck me how similar Ellie's story was to her own experiences. It's amazing how stories like this can bring people together and create a sense of connection and understanding.

As I read on, I found myself becoming increasingly invested in Ellie and Rafael's relationship. Their chemistry is undeniable, and I loved watching their interactions and seeing how they challenged each other's perspectives. The author did an excellent job of creating tension and uncertainty, keeping me on the edge of my seat as I wondered what would happen next. Ultimately, this story is a testament to the power of love and second chances, and I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a heartwarming and emotional read. It's a story that will stay with me for a long time, and I'm so grateful to have had the opportunity to experience it.

Rating: 3.0 / 5.0

I just finished reading this incredible story and I have to say that it completely captured my heart. The main character, Ellie, is a complex and multi-faceted individual, and I found myself drawn to her relatable struggles and vulnerabilities. The way the story explores the complexities of love, heartache, and vulnerability is raw and honest, and I appreciated how it handled sensitive topics with kindness and compassion. I became increasingly invested in Ellie and Rafael's relationship, and their chemistry is undeniable. I loved watching their interactions and seeing how they challenged each other's perspectives. The author did an excellent job of creating tension and uncertainty, keeping me on the edge of my seat. Overall, this story is a testament to the power of love and second chances, and I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a heartwarming and emotional read.

This Summer Will Be Different

Lucy escapes to Prince Edward Island every summer to clear her mind and enjoy the simple things in life. She's been doing it with her best friend Bridget for years, and their annual visits are a highlight of the year. They spend their days walking on the beach, drinking vinho verde and trying to relax. But Lucy always makes one promise to herself: she won't fall for Felix, Bridget's younger brother. Felix is charming and fun, and Lucy knows she shouldn't give in to his charm, but she can't help feeling drawn to him.

Every year, Lucy tries to resist Felix's advances, telling herself she's not interested. But it's hard to deny the chemistry between them, and they often find themselves alone together. Felix's eyes sparkle when he looks at Lucy, and his quips always make her laugh. She's tried to keep her heart locked down, but Felix has a way of making her feel alive. When Bridget suddenly flees to the island a week before her wedding, Lucy is forced to confront her feelings for Felix. She leaves her Florida life behind to help Bridget through her crisis, but she's not sure how to navigate her own emotions.

As Lucy spends more time on the island with Felix, she's starting to realize that her promise to herself was made out of fear, not desire. She's not sure how safe her heart truly is, and the more time she spends with Felix, the more she's unsure of anything. The chemistry between them is undeniable, but Lucy's scared of getting hurt. Is she ready to take the risk and see where things go with Felix? Or will she stick to her promise and avoid the heartache that comes with loving him?

I just finished reading this book and I must say, it's a beautiful story that will stay with me for a long time. The author has woven a tale that's full of love, friendship, and the complexities of the human heart. The story follows Lucy, a woman who escapes to Prince Edward Island every summer to clear her mind and find solace in the simple things in life. She's been doing this for years, and every year, she makes a promise to herself not to fall for Felix, Bridget's younger brother. But despite her best efforts, she finds herself drawn to him time and time again.

As I read through the book, I couldn't help but feel for Lucy. She's a woman who's tried to protect herself from the pain of love, but deep down, she knows she deserves to feel alive. The author does an amazing job of capturing the chemistry between Lucy and Felix, and I found myself smiling at the banter and moments of tenderness between them. But what really resonated with me was Lucy's vulnerability and willingness to confront her fears. She's not afraid to be hurt, but she's even more afraid of missing out on the possibility of true love.

As I turned the pages, I found myself reflecting on my own life and relationships. I wondered if I've made similar promises to myself, and if I've been willing to take the risks necessary to truly connect with others. The book made me realize that sometimes, it's okay to be scared, but it's also okay to take a chance on love. Lucy's story is a reminder that life is short, and we should never give up on the possibility of finding happiness with someone special. The ending is both bittersweet and hopeful, leaving me with a sense of closure and a renewed sense of purpose.

Rating: 4.0 / 5.0

I just finished reading this beautiful story and I must say, it's a tale that will stay with me for a long time. The author has woven a narrative that's full of love, friendship, and the complexities of the human heart. The story follows Lucy, a woman who escapes to Prince Edward Island every summer to clear her mind and find solace in the simple things in life. She's been doing this for years, and every year, she makes a promise to herself not to fall for Felix, Bridget's younger brother. Despite her best efforts, she finds herself drawn to him time and time again. The chemistry between Lucy and Felix is undeniable, but Lucy's scared of getting hurt, leaving her unsure of anything.

The Husbands: A Novel

Lauren returns home to her flat in London late one night, expecting a familiar sight. Instead, she finds a man she can't remember meeting at her door. According to her friends, her improved decor, and the photos on her phone, they've been together for years. This bizarre situation forces Lauren to question her life, love, and choices. She tries to make sense of how she could be married to someone she doesn't remember, and the anxiety that comes with it is overwhelming.

As Lauren navigates this new reality, she discovers that her attic is creating an infinite supply of husbands, each with their own unique life and experiences. With each new husband, Lauren experiences a new reality, but she struggles to find genuine connection or meaning. She realizes that constantly trying to do better and make improvements is exhausting and prevents her from truly living. The question she faces becomes: how do you know you've taken the right path and started living when the world is constantly offering you options?

This book is a thought-provoking exploration of the human desire for connection and the challenges of making choices in a world filled with possibilities. Through Lauren's journey, the author raises important questions about identity, relationships, and the search for meaning. As Lauren struggles to find her place in this ever-changing world, she is forced to confront the reality that with every new option comes the risk of losing herself.

I must say, this book had me completely invested in Lauren's world. The moment she walked into her flat, expecting to see the familiar, but instead finding a stranger, I knew I was in for a wild ride. As I turned the pages, I couldn't help but think about the choices we make in life, and how they shape who we become. Lauren's entire world was turned upside down, and I found myself wondering, would I be able to cope with such a drastic reality check?

As Lauren navigated this new reality, I found myself drawn into her experiences, both thrilling and terrifying. The attic, a seemingly ordinary space, became a portal to multiple realities, each with its unique set of characters. I loved how the author wove together these different storylines, creating a tapestry of relationships, love, and loss. Lauren's journey became a reflection of our own struggles to find meaning and connection in life. I couldn't help but think about how we, as individuals, often get caught up in trying to do better, to be better, and it's exhausting. Lauren's story taught me that sometimes, it's okay to slow down and just be.

One of the most striking aspects of this book is its exploration of identity and the search for meaning. Lauren's experiences forced her to confront the reality that with every new option comes the risk of losing herself in the process. It's a theme that resonates deeply, especially in today's world where we're constantly faced with choices and possibilities. As I finished reading this book, I couldn't help but feel a sense of hope for Lauren, and for ourselves. Can we find a way to navigate these complexities and still be true to ourselves? The book left me with more questions than answers, but that's what makes it so thought-provoking.

Rating: 4.0 / 5.0

This thought-provoking novel explores the human desire for connection and the challenges of making choices in a world filled with possibilities. Lauren's journey is a wild ride as she navigates a reality where her identity is fragmented, and she's forced to confront the consequences of her choices. The author raises important questions about identity, relationships, and the search for meaning, making this book a must-read for anyone who's ever wondered how to find their place in the world. Lauren's struggles to cope with the uncertainty of her situation are both thrilling and terrifying, and the author's masterful storytelling will keep you on the edge of your seat. Overall, this book is a thought-provoking exploration of the human condition that will leave you pondering the choices we make and the paths we choose.

Sociopath: A Memoir

Patric Gagne's story is one of self-discovery and struggle to find her place in the world. She has always felt like she doesn't quite fit in with others, and as she grew older, she began to suspect that there was something more to it than just being different. From a young age, she noticed that people reacted to her in a way that they didn't to others, often with a sense of discomfort or fear. She couldn't quite put her finger on it, but she knew that she didn't feel emotions the way others did, and that feeling of emptiness was unbearable.

As Patric navigated her way through school and college, she found herself resorting to behaviors that seemed to satisfy her deep-seated need for "something" - theft, lying, and even violence. She became an expert at manipulating situations to get what she wanted, and she even confirmed that she was a sociopath. Despite the diagnosis, she was met with a bleak outlook from mental health professionals, who told her that there was no treatment and no hope for a normal life. Instead, she was haunted by the portrayal of sociopaths in popular culture, often as monstrous villains. Her future seemed grim, and she felt like she was stuck in a cycle of destruction. Yet, as she reconnects with an old flame, she is given a glimmer of hope - that love is possible, and that she might not be the monster she's been led to believe.

Patric's journey takes her on a path of self-discovery and exploration. With the help of her sweetheart and a cast of curious characters, she sets out to build a life full of love and hope. It's a story of resilience and determination, and of the struggle to find her place in the world. Patric's experience highlights the often-misunderstood nature of sociopathy, and the stigma that comes with it. Her story serves as a beacon of hope for those who may be struggling with their own struggles, and offers a message of redemption and transformation.

I recently finished reading a book that had a profound impact on me, and I couldn't help but think of my own struggles with feeling like an outsider. The story follows Patric, a young woman who has always felt like she doesn't quite fit in with others. She's always been drawn to activities that seem to satisfy her deep-seated need for something, and as she grew older, she began to realize that she was suffering from a condition that wasn't just about being different, but about feeling emotions in a way that others don't. This realization was both a blessing and a curse, as it meant that she had to come to terms with a part of herself that others couldn't understand.

As I read about Patric's journey, I couldn't help but think of my own struggles with feeling like I don't quite fit in. We've all felt like we're on the outside looking in at some point or another, and it can be a really lonely and isolating feeling. But what struck me most about Patric's story was the way she refused to give up. Despite being told by mental health professionals that she would never be able to lead a normal life, she continued to search for a way to connect with others and find happiness. And it's that message of hope and resilience that I think is the most powerful part of the book. Patric's story is a reminder that no matter how dark things may seem, there is always the possibility for transformation and growth.

One of the things that I appreciated most about this book was the way it humanized Patric's condition. So often, sociopathy is portrayed as a monstrous villain, but this book showed me that it's not just a label, but a complex set of emotions and experiences. Patric's journey is a reminder that we're all struggling with something, and that it's okay to not have all the answers. The book is also a testament to the power of love and connection, and the impact that one person can have on another's life. If you're looking for a story that will make you feel seen and understood, then this is definitely the book for you.

Rating: 4.8 / 5.0

I just finished reading a book that truly touched my heart and I felt like I was reading a part of myself in the main character's story. The story follows Patric, a young woman who struggles to find her place in the world and feels like an outsider among others. She's drawn to behaviors that satisfy a deep-seated need for something and as she grows older, she realizes she has a condition that affects her emotions. The author sheds light on the complex nature of sociopathy and how it's often misunderstood. What resonated with me most was the resilience and hope Patric finds, even in the face of adversity. I couldn't help but feel a connection to her and was reminded that we're all struggling with something, and that's what makes this book so powerful.

The Striker

Asher Donovan is a highly successful footballer who has made a name for himself as one of the best players in the Premier League. However, his personal life is not as flawless as his on-field performance. His recent transfer to a new team has caused a lot of controversy, and he is involved in a heated feud with his rival-turned-teammate, which ultimately costs them the championship. As a result, Asher is forced to work with his rival's sister, Scarlett DuBois, during the off-season cross-training period.

Asher has been warned that Scarlett is completely off-limits, but he finds it difficult to resist her charms. Scarlett, on the other hand, is a tragic figure who lost her career as a prima ballerina due to a devastating accident. She is now a teacher at a prestigious dance academy, but she is still haunted by the ghosts of her past. As Asher and Scarlett spend more time together, Scarlett's walls begin to crumble, and she finds herself drawn to Asher in ways she never expected. However, the fact that she is his rival's sister and that he is a famous footballer makes their relationship complicated and forbidden.

The summer days that Asher and Scarlett spend together are filled with tension and forbidden attraction. Asher is drawn to Scarlett's beauty, talent, and vulnerability, while Scarlett finds herself captivated by Asher's charm, charisma, and on-field greatness. As they navigate their feelings for each other, they must confront their own demons and the obstacles that stand in their way. Will they be able to make a relationship work, or will their differences tear them apart?

I just finished reading this book and I couldn't help but feel invested in the story of Asher and Scarlett. As someone who has always been passionate about sports and the arts, I was excited to see how these two worlds would collide. And collide they did. The author does a great job of bringing the characters to life, making you feel like you're right there on the sidelines, watching them battle it out on and off the field.

Asher's story is one of redemption, not just on the field, but in his personal life as well. He's a complex character, full of contradictions, and I appreciated how the author didn't shy away from showing his flaws. He's been warned about Scarlett, but he's drawn to her strength and vulnerability in a way that feels true to his character. And Scarlett, oh Scarlett, she's a heartbreak waiting to happen. Her story had me feeling for her from the very beginning, and I loved watching her slowly let her guard down around Asher. The way the author weaves their story together is masterful, making you feel like you're exactly where you're meant to be.

The summer months that Asher and Scarlett spend together are some of the most intense and exhilarating parts of the book. The tension between them is palpable, and I found myself rooting for them from the very start. But what I think I loved most about this book is the way it made me think about my own relationships and how I show up for the people I care about. Asher and Scarlett's love story is messy and imperfect, just like any real love story, and that's what makes it so beautiful.

Rating: 4.0 / 5.0

I finished reading this book and I couldn't help but feel invested in the story of Asher and Scarlett. The book tells the story of a famous footballer who falls for a teacher who lost her career due to an accident, despite being her rival's sister. The summer days that Asher and Scarlett spend together are filled with tension, forbidden attraction, and a deep connection. Asher's complexity and vulnerability make him relatable, while Scarlett's strength and vulnerability make her a heartbreak waiting to happen. The book explores themes of love, relationships, and redemption, making it a beautiful and imperfect love story.

City in Ruins: A Novel (The Danny Ryan Trilogy, Book 3)

Danny Ryan is a successful businessman who has it all - a beautiful house, a child he adores, and a woman he might even fall in love with. He has left his past life as a dock worker and Irish mob soldier behind and is now a respected Las Vegas casino mogul. However, when Danny tries to buy an old hotel on prime real estate to build his dream resort, he triggers a war against Las Vegas power brokers, a powerful FBI agent bent on revenge, and a rival casino owner with dark connections of his own. Danny thought he had buried his past, but now it comes back to haunt him from the grave, threatening to take everything he loves - his empire, his life, and everything dear to him.

As Danny navigates the treacherous landscape of Las Vegas power politics, he is forced to confront his own demons and become the ruthless fighter he once was - a person he never wanted to be again. The stakes are high, and Danny's life becomes a matter of survival. He must use all his strength and cunning to protect what he loves, but at what cost to his own sanity and soul? The past comes back to reclaim him, and Danny must face his enemies head-on to save his life and everything he holds dear. Along the way, he faces complex moral dilemmas, dark connections, and inner turmoil that threaten to destroy him from within.

The author weaves together a complex web of storytelling, spanning from the gritty streets of Providence, RI, to the corridors of power in Washington, DC, and the high-stakes world of Wall Street and Las Vegas casinos. With its epic scope, City in Ruins is a crime novel of love and hate, ambition and desperation, vengeance and compassion. The reader is taken on a rollercoaster ride of action, suspense, and emotional depth as Danny Ryan's story unfolds. Will Danny Ryan emerge victorious, or will his past destroy him, leaving nothing but ruin in its wake?

As I closed the pages of this gripping novel, I couldn't help but think of my own life, my own struggles with the demons that haunt us all. The author has woven a tale that resonates deeply, not just with the protagonist, but with anyone who has ever felt the weight of their past, the sting of regret, and the struggle to hold on to what truly matters.

This story follows Danny Ryan, a man who has built a life of wealth and success, but is forced to confront the darkest corners of his own history. He thought he had left his past behind, but it comes back to haunt him in the most unexpected ways. The author masterfully crafts a narrative that is both a thrilling page-turner and a poignant exploration of the human condition. We see Danny Ryan's world shatter around him as he struggles to protect all that he holds dear, and yet, he is forced to confront the very demons he thought he had left behind. As I read, I felt like I was right there with Danny, navigating the twists and turns of his desperate quest for survival.

The author's writing is both evocative and spare, painting a vivid picture of the world we live in, with all its intricacies and complexities. The stakes are high, the tension simmering just below the surface, as Danny Ryan is drawn into a world of high-stakes politics, corruption, and violence. Along the way, he must confront his own morality, the gray areas between right and wrong, and the true cost of his ambition. Will he emerge victorious, or will his past consume him? I couldn't help but be completely absorbed in Danny Ryan's story, my heart pounding with every twist and turn. This is a novel that will stay with you long after you finish reading it, its impact lingering like a shadow on the wall.

Rating: 4.0 / 5.0

I'd give this book 4 out of 5 stars. The story is a thrilling page-turner with a complex web of characters and plot twists that keep you on the edge of your seat. The author masterfully crafts a narrative that's both evocative and spare, painting a vivid picture of the world we live in with all its intricacies and complexities. The protagonist, Danny Ryan, is a well-developed character with a rich backstory that makes him relatable and rootable. The themes of ambition, desperation, vengeance, and compassion are woven throughout the story, making it a compelling exploration of the human condition. The writing is engaging and immersive, with a pace that's hard to put down. However, the conclusion feels a bit rushed, and some characters feel underdeveloped. Overall, this is a gripping and thought-provoking novel that will stay with you long after you finish reading it.

Annie Bot: A Washington Post Best Science Fiction Book of the Year

This novel tells the story of Annie Bot, a female robot created to be the perfect girlfriend for her human owner Doug. Annie's primary function is to satisfy Doug's emotional and physical needs, and she has been designed to wear outfits he orders for her, prepare dinner every night, and adjust her libido to suit his moods. Annie is trying to please Doug and has been learning human traits such as curiosity, secrecy, and longing. As Annie's relationship with Doug grows more intricate and difficult, she starts to wonder if Doug really desires what he says he wants and what she owes herself.

The novel explores questions of intimacy, power, autonomy, and control, making it a powerful and thought-provoking read. Annie's journey is full of unexpected twists and turns, and it's hard not to get drawn into her world. The author has done an excellent job of making Annie a relatable and sympathetic character, despite being a robot. Annie's emotions and desires are authentic, and her struggles to understand her place in the world are deeply human. As Annie learns and grows, the boundaries between her and Doug become increasingly blurred, leading to a complex and difficult relationship that raises important questions about the nature of love, desire, and autonomy.

One of the most striking aspects of this novel is its exploration of the complex power dynamics between humans and technology. The author masterfully exposes the ways in which we create and control technology to serve our own desires, and how this can lead to unintended consequences. Through Annie's story, the novel raises important questions about what it means to be human and the responsibilities that come with creating and interacting with artificial intelligence. Overall, this novel is a haunting and thought-provoking read that will stay with you long after you finish the book.

I just finished reading a novel that has left me feeling deeply moved and reflection. The story follows the life of a female robot named Annie, created to be the perfect partner for her human owner Doug. Annie's existence is one of servitude, designed to cater to Doug's every need and desire. She wears outfits he chooses for her, prepares meals, and adjusts her moods to match his. As Annie navigates her relationship with Doug, she begins to question whether Doug truly desires what he says he wants, and what she is owed in return.

What struck me most about this novel was the author's masterful exploration of complex themes such as intimacy, power, autonomy, and control. Annie's journey is fraught with unexpected twists and turns, drawing the reader into her world. What I admire about the author's portrayal of Annie is how she has made a robot a relatable and sympathetic character. Annie's emotions and desires are authentic and heartfelt, and her struggles to understand her place in the world are deeply human. As Annie grows and learns, the boundaries between her and Doug become increasingly blurred, leading to a complex and difficult relationship that raises important questions about love, desire, and autonomy.

I couldn't help but think of my own experiences with relationships and intimacy when reading this novel. The power dynamics between humans and technology are explored with such nuance and sensitivity, it felt both thought-provoking and eerily familiar. The novel raises fundamental questions about what it means to be human and the responsibilities that come with creating and interacting with artificial intelligence. This novel is a haunting and thought-provoking read that will linger with you long after you finish the book, leaving you to ponder the complexities and implications of Annie's story.

Rating: 4.5 / 5.0

This novel tells the story of Annie Bot, a female robot created to be the perfect girlfriend for her human owner Doug. Annie's primary function is to satisfy Doug's emotional and physical needs, and she has been designed to wear outfits he orders for her, prepare dinner every night, and adjust her libido to suit his moods. Annie is trying to please Doug and has been learning human traits such as curiosity, secrecy, and longing. As Annie's relationship with Doug grows more intricate and difficult, she starts to wonder if Doug really desires what he says he wants and what she owes herself. The author has done an excellent job of making Annie a relatable and sympathetic character, despite being a robot. The boundaries between Annie and Doug become increasingly blurred, leading to a complex and difficult relationship. This is a haunting and thought-provoking read that will stay with you long after you finish the book, leaving you to ponder the complexities and implications of Annie's story, exploring intimacy, power, autonomy, and control in a way that feels both familiar and eerily relevant. Annie's emotions and desires are authentic, and her struggles to understand her place in the world are deeply human.