I liked it a lot because I like cupcakes and I like the characters in the book and what they did. And I like what the story was about.

A story about the endurance of true friendship. The characters are so vividly drawn I feel like I'd recognize them on the street. Occasionally slow, though the ending is quite satisfying.

Cannot finish it. Too heavy and depressing.

Almost like part 2 of Ritual not quite as thrilling or scary as her previous novels but very interesting development of all the characters

I read this book because it was an Indie Next pick for May and I wanted to mix it up with a memoir/nonfiction read. I was unfamiliar with the author’s podcast but I loved the idea of a bookseller’s book. I felt like Annie was relatable. I appreciated her perspective on church. Overall, I thought she had a clear voice that will resonate with some but maybe not work for others. I listened to the audiobook on Libby.

I listened to this audiobook of short stories on Libby after it popped on my radar as a July Indie Next pick. This is a collection of 11 tales set in the south that cover a lot of content: pregnancy, violence, sex and intimacy, church, hair, Blackness and more. Nearly all of the vignettes felt forgettable and most seemed unresolved in my opinion. The narration was solid but the stories didn’t captivate me. My hands-down favorite from the bunch was “How Does Your Garden Grow?” which is a memorable and unique depiction of fibroids.

This book has a lot of cliffhangers! It’s also very exciting. My favorite character is Percy Jackson, I like that he is the son of Poseidon. If you like Greek Mythology and excitement, you will LOVE this book series!

Fantastic like all the rest and a satisfying ending for Jack

This is a lovely book! I was lucky to receive a digital ARC of this graphic novel from NetGalley to review. After loving The Magic Fish, I was eager to read Trung Le Nguyen’s latest, which is set to release in October 2025. The full color illustrations are dreamy, gorgeous feasts for the eyes. After overextending herself, Angelica turns to a place that has captivated her and brought her comfort: the local theater and its upcoming production featuring Per the Bear Prince. This story has a little of everything: family drama and grief, a second chance romance, friendship, and more. While this sophomore book doesn’t feel as deep or impactful as its predecessor, it still gets top marks for me. Young audiences will love it and older readers will appreciate it.

Eva had a new friend in class and she wanted her to sit by her and she wanted to make her things to feel welcome in the new school. But Hailey sat with Eva’s best friend Lucy instead and Eva was feeling left out. At the end they ended up being friends because Eva said sorry to Lucy and they all became friends.