This was going to be a Valentine’s Day post (because it’s the day of love and I love books), but instead it’s coming to you on Leap Day. Oh well, close enough.

I’ve read ten “books” so far this year, but six of them are the short romance novellas that Amazon Prime released for subscribers around Valentine’s Day. I still count them, but maybe you don’t. Regardless, there is no score so it doesn’t really matter. Read on, friends.

Everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone
Benjamin Stevenson
★★★★/5
Mystery

This was kind of a strange one… The main character broke through the 4th wall right off the rip. It was darkly humorous but it had a nice pace and tied everything together at the end (which I personally enjoy very much). All the information was laid out and I guessed a few things, but I didn’t get the major twist and I have respect for an author when they *correctly* fool me.
I have his next book on hold at the library. That’s the real proof that I enjoyed this one.

Buy it on BookShop

The Improbably Meet-Cute Series
As I said, there were six short stories released around Valentine’s Day for Amazon Prime members. I’m not using Amazon this year, but I still have Prime… *shrug* Free is fair game.

1. The Exception to the Rule ★★★★★ very cute- loved the main characters
2. Worst Wingman Ever ★★★★★ so much plot and love packed into a short story
3. Rosie and the Dreamboat ★★★ some chemistry, but there were also awkward moments…
4. Drop, Cover, and Hold On ★★ practically no chemistry and way too quick of a burn
5. With Any Luck ★★ neither character did it for me… both were immature
6. Royal Valentine ★ a bad blend of Prince Harry and the film Roman Holiday – nope

When Women Pray: 10 Women of the Who Changed the World Through Prayer
T.D. Jakes
★★★★/5
Christian

One of my friends gifted our small group this book for Christmas. I don’t think this would’ve come across my radar otherwise.
I read one chapter each night until I reached the end (1 chapter = 1 story about one Biblical woman). It was a really great pace for absorbing and thinking about the message. I often take Christian books with a grain of salt- and this one was no different- but I felt a strong connection to Jakes’ message and walked away with a renewed sense of prayer and connection to God.

Buy it on BookShop

When in Rome
Sarah Adams
★★★★★/5
Romance

This was a super cute read. Both of the main characters were sweet and likable. The small town of Rome, KY was adorable. The cast of supporting characters was the icing on the cake. I loved Amelia’s transformation and Noah’s hurt-to-healing storyline. It was also pretty PG-13 with fade-to-black romance scenes. Overall, super cute. Once again, I have the next one in the series already on hold!

Buy it on BookShop

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Overall, not too shabby a start to the year.

At the end of March, I’ll update my progress on Erin’s 20.0 Book Challenge and share some of M’s current favorites!

What’s been your favorite book so far in 2024?

-Aud