Welcome to this month’s book blog, brought to you by the magic of insomnia! My sadistic sleep neurologist thought it would be fun to switch up my beloved sleep meds, leaving me with more awake hours than a barista during pumpkin spice season. But every cloud has a silver lining—or, in my case, a reading light. With all those sleepless nights, I managed to plow through 16 books! This newsletter has something for everyone (except if you’re into erotica, horror, or paranormal—if it’s too steamy, spooky, or just plain creepy, it’s off my list). So, grab a cup of coffee, dive in, and hopefully you’ll find your next […]
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Amy’s Picks and Pans, Issue 32
Welcome to issue 32 of my monthly Picks and Pans newsletter. This time I dive into an array of genres to bring you some of the best reads out there! Whether you’re into gripping mysteries, spy thrillers, epic historical sagas, or middle grade novels, you’ll find a diverse collection of books to spark your interest. I craft each review to help you discover your next great read, providing thoughtful insights and personal opinions on both books that are getting loads of press and hidden gems. Grab your favorite reading spot, settle in, and let’s explore the wonderful books I read this month! Simon (Sort of) Says By Erin Bow Middle […]
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Amy’s Picks and Pans, Issue 31
Dear Readers, As we dive into another edition of our bookish journey, I’m excited to share with you a delightful mix of fabulous reads and some that, well, missed the mark. This month, we’ve encountered stories that transported us to new worlds, characters who lingered long after the final page, and narratives that challenged our perspectives in unexpected ways. From heartwarming tales of resilience to gripping mysteries that kept us guessing, the literary landscape has been rich and varied. Of course, no reading journey is complete without a few disappointments, and we’ll explore those too—books that promised much but left us wanting more. So, grab your favorite beverage, settle into […]
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Amy’s Picks and Pans, Issue 30
This month, I embarked on a literary journey across 3,643 pages, traveling through Uganda, Kenya, Italy, Scotland, England, Norway, Berkeley, Washington DC, and even ancient Pompeii. I delved into historical fiction, a psychological thriller, detective fiction, and a couple of mysteries. While I had more 3-star reads than usual, I also discovered two amazing books. Remember, your mileage may vary—none of these were total clunkers! Dive in and see where these stories take you. Happy reading! A History of Burning by Janika Oza The story begins at the turn of the twentieth century, when 13-year-old Pirbhai, the eldest son of a poor family, is conscripted British to work on the […]
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Amy’s Picks and Pans, Issue 28
Welcome to my Monthly Book Round-Up! This month, I dive into a vibrant selection of ten reads that promise to spark your curiosity and stir your emotions. From the latest bestsellers to hidden gems waiting to be discovered, some were standouts and others were duds, but the list aims to cater to a wide array of tastes and preferences. Whether you’re in the mood for a thrilling mystery, a heartwarming romance, or a deep dive into historical intrigue, there’s something here for everyone. Grab your favorite beverage and let’s explore these enticing titles that are sure to keep your pages turning and your imaginations soaring. Happy reading! Drawn […]
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Amy’s Picks and Pans, Issue 27
Hey fellow bookies! Spring has sprung, birds are looking for love, and flower bulbs are popping through the moldering ground. Just imagine, with a gentle breeze stirring the air, there’s nothing like kicking back with a good book. So, let’s grab a cup of something yummy and dive into this month’s hits and misses in the literary world. I’ve got my stack right here, and I’m ready to share my thoughts. Let’s find out which books might become your sun-soaked companions and which ones might just be better used as doorstops. As always, these are just my opinions, you may think differently. Ready? Let’s turn the page! Remarkably […]
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