Publisher: Flatiron Books
Genre: Romance
Source: Flatiron Books ( Netgalley )

Goodreads: A debut about a rom-com screenwriter who doesn’t believe in love and a divorce attorney who does, forced together at their high school reunion fifteen years after their breakup

Molly Marks writes Hollywood rom-coms for a living—which is how she knows “romance” is a racket. The one and only time she was naive enough to fall in love was with her high school boyfriend, Seth—who she ghosted on the eve of graduation and hasn’t seen in fifteen years.

Seth Rubinstein believes in love, the grand, fated kind, despite his job as, well…one of Chicago’s most successful divorce attorneys. Over the last decade, he’s sought “the one” in countless bad dates and rushed relationships. He knows his soulmate is out there. But so far, no one can compare to Molly Marks, the first girl who broke his heart.

When Molly’s friends drag her to Florida for their fifteenth high school reunion, it is poetic justice that she’s forced to sit with Seth. Too many martinis and a drunken hookup later, they decide to make a bet: whoever can predict the fate of five couples before the next reunion must declare that the other is right about true love. The catch? The fifth couple is the two of them.

Molly assures Seth they are a tale of timeless heartbreak. Seth promises she’ll end up hopelessly in love with him. She thinks he’s delusional. He has five years to prove her wrong.

Wickedly funny, sexy, and brimming with laughs and heart like the best romantic comedies, Just Some Stupid Love Story is for everyone who believes in soulmates—even if they would never admit it.

Ope’s Opinion: This was a very cute story. I did get tired of Molly’s smart remarks and her attitude. Seth seemed to be such a good guy.

I liked that there were other relationships throughout the story that you kept getting updates on. I did feel like the story drug on in some parts.

Publisher: Dell
Genre: Romance
Source: Library

Goodreads: An act of terror. A summer of change . . .

Never Too Late is a stirring drama about the power of human connection and embracing brave change, from the billion copy bestseller, Danielle Steel.

Following the death of her beloved husband, Kezia Cooper Hobson decides to leave her home in San Francisco and move to a luxury penthouse in Manhattan, where she’ll be closer to her two adult daughters.

As she watches the 4th July firework display from her terrace, Kezia is shocked to see smoke and flames pouring from famous landmarks across New York City. Her neighbour, the famous movie star Sam Stewart, is also aware of the crisis, and watches in horror as the terrifying drama unfolds.

Determined to offer their assistance, Kezia and Sam hasten to the site and swiftly become involved in the rescue effort. Shocked and traumatized by the events they experience, Kezia and Sam bond in the days and weeks that follow one of the worst nights the country has ever known.

What follows is a summer of healing and change, and the discovery that it’s never too late for dreams to be born again . . .

Ope’s Opinion: This is a. typical Danielle Steel book. It is a story that is being told, but you never feel like you are a part of it. I just wasn’t invested in the characters. I was interested in what was going to happen, but definitely not a page turner or holding my breath to see what is next. It was just okay.

The ending was exactly what you expect. You could see what was coming from the beginning. No surprises here at all.

Publisher: Penguin Young Readers
Genre: Young Adult
Source: Penguin Young Readers ( Netgalley )

Goodreads: Dark romance, high stakes, and plot twists abound in this paperback original YA thriller that’s perfect for fans of Colleen Hoover.

What you don’t know can hurt you….

It’s been months since the accident that killed Ella’s best friend, Hayley, and Ella can’t stop blaming herself. Now Ella is back at school, and everywhere she looks are reminders of her best friend—including Sawyer, Hayley’s boyfriend. Little by little, they grow closer, until Ella realizes something horrifying . . .

She’s in love with her dead best friend’s boyfriend.

Racked with guilt, Ella turns to Hayley’s journal, hoping she’ll find something in the pages that will make her feel better about what’s happening. Instead, she discovers that Sawyer has secrets of his own and that his relationship with Hayley wasn’t as picture-perfect as it seemed.

Ella knows she should stay away but finds herself inextricably drawn to him—and scared of everything she never knew about him. Perhaps it’s his grief. Or maybe his desires, cut short by tragedy. Or could it be something twisted only Hayley knew about?

A dark, romantic thriller perfect for fans of Colleen Hoover and Laura Nowlin, Everything We Never Said explores the secrets in even the best of friendships and asks how well you ever know the ones you love.

Ope’s Opinion: Wow! This story was intense. It had a couple of large twists that I did not see coming. I went down the road not realizing where it was going.

The topic of toxic relationships was handled so well, I think I will recommend my granddaughter reading this one. My only reservations were the amount of sex scenes and details that were given. I do believe the point could have been made without the details.

The ending was good. I will look for what this author writes next.

Publisher: Gallery Books
Genre: Nonfictiion
Source: Library

Goodreads: For the first time, discover the unedited truth about the Duggars, the traditional Christian family that captivated the nation on TLC’s hit show 19 Kids and Counting. Jill Duggar and her husband Derick are finally ready to share their story, revealing the secrets, manipulation, and intimidation behind the show that remained hidden from their fans.

Jill and Derick knew a normal life wasn’t possible for them. As a star on the popular TLC reality show 19 Kids and Counting, Jill grew up in front of viewers who were fascinated by her family’s way of life. She was the responsible, second daughter of Jim Bob and Michelle’s nineteen kids; always with a baby on her hip and happy to wear the modest ankle-length dresses with throat-high necklines. She didn’t protest the strict model of patriarchy that her family followed, which declares that men are superior, that women are expected to be wives and mothers and are discouraged from attaining a higher education, and that parental authority over their children continues well into adulthood, even once they are married.

But as Jill got older, married Derick, and they embarked on their own lives, the red flags became too obvious to ignore. For as long as they could, Jill and Derick tried to be obedient family members — they weren’t willing to rock the boat. But now they’re raising a family of their own, and they’re done with the secrets. Thanks to time, tears, therapy, and blessings from God, they have the strength to share their journey. Theirs is a remarkable story of the power of the truth and is a moving example of how to find healing through honesty.

Ope’s Opinion: I have watched the show 19 Kids and Counting and the show Counting On, so I was very interested in hearing Jill and Derick’s perspective on their family and where they are now.

It felt real and honest to me. She didn’t throw her family under the bus, but I do think she told her story as she lived it. It could not have been easy to be in the middle of filming a show and know you needed out, but also know it would effect a lot of other people.

I have always thought living life under the watchful eye of the public would be very hard. I think she did it with grace.

Publisher: William Morrow
Genre: Fiction
Source: Library

Goodreads: In this thought-provoking, wise and emotionally rich novel, New York Times bestselling author Susan Wiggs explores the meaning of happiness, trust, and faith in oneself as she asks the question, “If you had to start over, what would you do and who would you be?”

There is a book for everything . . .

Somewhere in the vast Library of the Universe, as Natalie thought of it, there was a book that embodied exactly the things she was worrying about.

In the wake of a shocking tragedy, Natalie Harper inherits her mother’s charming but financially strapped bookshop in San Francisco. She also becomes caretaker for her ailing grandfather Andrew, her only living relative—not counting her scoundrel father.

But the gruff, deeply kind Andrew has begun displaying signs of decline. Natalie thinks it’s best to move him to an assisted living facility to ensure the care he needs. To pay for it, she plans to close the bookstore and sell the derelict but valuable building on historic Perdita Street, which is in need of constant fixing. There’s only one problem–Grandpa Andrew owns the building and refuses to sell. Natalie adores her grandfather; she’ll do whatever it takes to make his final years happy. Besides, she loves the store and its books provide welcome solace for her overwhelming grief.

After she moves into the small studio apartment above the shop, Natalie carries out her grandfather’s request and hires contractor Peach Gallagher to do the necessary and ongoing repairs. His young daughter, Dorothy, also becomes a regular at the store, and she and Natalie begin reading together while Peach works.

To Natalie’s surprise, her sorrow begins to dissipate as her life becomes an unexpected journey of new connections, discoveries and revelations, from unearthing artifacts hidden in the bookshop’s walls, to discovering the truth about her family, her future, and her own heart.

Ope’s Opinion: The cover and name of this book caught my attention right away. The story was a good one. It started out a bit sad and a little depressing – it took a little too long to be positive.

It did drag at times for me. It was obvious where the story was going to go – no surprises. It did have a sort of happy ending.

Publisher: St. Martin’s Giffin
Genre: Mystery
Source: My daughter

Goodreads: Scottoline writes riveting thrillers that keep me up all night, with plots that twist and turn. Harlan Coben

One boy. One lawyer. One chance for justice.

Ten-year-old Patrick O’Brien is a natural target at school. Shy, dyslexic, and small for his age, he tries to hide his first-grade reading level from everyone: from his classmates, from the grandfather who cares for him, and from the teachers who are supposed to help him. But the real trouble begins when Patrick is accused of attacking a school aide. The aide promptly quits and sues the boy, his family, and the school district. Patrick’s grandfather turns to the law firm of Rosato & DiNunzio for help and Mary DiNunzio is on the case. Soon Mary becomes Patrick’s true champion and his only hope for security and justice. But there is more to the story than meets the eye and Patrick might be more troubled than he seems. With twists at every turn and secrets about the family coming to light, Mary DiNunzio might have found the case that can make her a true protector, or break her heart…

With Lisa Scottoline s trademark emotional depth and fast-paced action, “Damaged” will have readers riveted to the last page as they root for the beloved characters and their fight for justice.”

Ope’s Opinion: The story line of this book is amazing. It is the fourth in a series – it felt like a stand alone. I thought the way Lisa Scottoline handled dyslexia was so on point. She gave information on the legal rights of children with disabilities that I was not aware of.

The book was a bit longer than I thought it needed to be. The minute details were distracting and made me skim some parts.

The ending was a bit of a surprise and I thought it was great.

Publisher: St. Martin’s Griffin
Genre: Christmas
Source: St. Martin’s Griffin ( Netgalley )

Goodreads: A heartwarming love story set at Christmas time by USA Today bestselling author Nancy Naigle.

In the enchanting mountain town of Chestnut Ridge, where tree farms blanket the hillsides and the promise of a white Christmas is ever-present, a heartwarming holiday romance is about to blossom. When Sheila’s best friend convinces her to help decorate a tree in the annual Christmas Tree Stroll fundraiser, she embarks on an unexpected journey of self-discovery, all wrapped in the cozy embrace of a tight-knit community. As she immerses herself in the joy of twinkling lights, hot cocoa, and the camaraderie of the townsfolk, Sheila’s world begins to transform, and she finds the sense of belonging she never knew she needed.

Meanwhile, Tucker, the town’s reliable fire captain, is gathering volunteers to help a family with four young children who have just lost their home to a devastating fire weeks before Christmas. Sheila offers her helping hand, and as the town rallies to support the family in their time of need, sparks of love begin to flicker between her and Tucker.

In this charming town where dreams come true, and Christmas magic is everywhere, come along for a tale of love, community, and the true spirit of the season.

Ope’s Opinion: This is a perfect read to get into the holiday spirit. The people in Chestnut Ridge care about each other. It is a romance and there are a few romances going on, but it is also about people caring for each other in a small town.

This story made me smile. It made me want to go visit Chestnut Ridge for the holidays. It would be fun to see this as a Hallmark movie.

Publisher: Thomas Nelson
Genre: Christian Fiction / Suspense
Source: Kristi at Kritters Ramblings

Goodreads: A devastating explosion.
Three best friends are at the venue to hear their favorite band. Only one makes it out alive.

A trunk full of evidence.
When police stop Dustin Webb with a warrant to search his trunk, he knows there’s been a mistake. He’s former military and owns a security firm. But he’s horrified when the officers find explosives, and he can’t fathom how they got there.

An attorney who will risk it all for an old friend.
Criminal attorney Jamie Powell was Dustin’s best friend growing up. They haven’t spoken since he left for basic training, but she’s the first person he thinks of when he’s arrested. Jamie knows she’s putting her career on the line by defending an accused terrorist, but she’d never abandon him. Someone is framing Dustin to take the fall for shocking acts of violence . . . but why?

Ope’s Opinion: I think this is a 3.5. It is better than average, but not amazing. I liked that we found out who did it long before the end came. It took us on a ride after the mystery was solved. It was a fun ride – sort of predicable ending, but a good one.

I liked that Jamie and Dustin had a relationship in the past. It made their friendship move quickly without a lot of explanation needed between them. Taylor’s character seemed unnecessary, a little immature and a little erratic. I wish some of the facts had come out in a different way.

I know this Christian fiction and I really do like Christian fiction, when Bible verses were quoted, it felt like they were just put their randomly. The other references to God and their relationship to God seemed natural.

Publisher: Ballatine Books
Genre: Fiction
Source: Purchased

Goodreads: In the wake of tragedy, a group of friends make a pact that will cause them to reunite a decade later and embark upon a life-changing adventure together—from the #1 New York Times bestselling author of Meant to Be.

Four freshmen arrive at college from completely different worlds: Lainey, a California party girl with a flair for drama; Tyson, a brilliant scholar and law school hopeful from D.C.; Summer, a recruited athlete and perfectionist from the Midwest; and Hannah, a mild-mannered southerner who is content to quietly round out the circle of big personalities. Soon after moving into their shared dorm, they strike up a conversation in a study lounge, and the seeds of friendship are planted.

As their college years fly by, their bond intensifies and the four become inseparable. But as graduation nears, their lives are forever changed after a desperate act leads to tragic consequences. Stunned and heartbroken, a pact is made to be there for each other in their time of need, no matter how separated they are by circumstances or distance.

Ten years later, Hannah is anticipating what should be one of the happiest moments of her life when everything is suddenly turned upside down. Calling on her closest friends, it soon becomes clear that they are facing their own crossroads. True to their promise, they agree to take a time out from lives headed in wrong directions and embark on a journey of self-discovery, forgiveness, and acceptance.

In this tender portrayal of grief, love, and hope, Emily Giffin asks: When things fall apart, who will be at our sides to help pick up the pieces?

Ope’s Opinion: This book was a coming of age of 30 somethings. Their relationships started in college. They had some bonding experiences that drew them closer than most friendships.

I kept thinking this book was going to go somewhere else, but it didn’t. It was okay, but not the usual amazing Emily Giffin.

I did enjoy the different perspectives of the same parts of the story. I also thought this could only happen with people with money. Who else could travel like they did and have the time off from work.

The ending came fast and felt rushed. Happily ever after without a connection to all the other stuff that happened.