Adult Romance Review: The Lodge

 

Alix is ghost-writing a memoir for a famous member of a boy band. 

Sebastian was in one of the biggest boy bands. He was the Golden Boy. But he clashed with another band member - the Bad Boy (Jett). They hated each other. Everything broke down after Jett disappeared. It's the biggest mystery in musical history.

Since Alix's sister moved in with her, she's been having a hard time writing. Sebastian puts her up in a ski resort in Vermont. The book starts writing itself - thanks to all the voice recordings he's given her. As the secrets start coming out, Alix has questions. But it's not easy to get a hold of Sebastian. So, Alix starting having a little fun on her writing retreat - where she meets a ski instructor named Tyler who seems a little too good to be true...

My Thoughts: This was such a fun read; I didn't want to put it down. I loved how the chapters were interspersed with interviews and things about the band. I loved reading about the band's secrets. I loved the description of food and drinks. I loved the folks at the resort - they seemed really nice. I confess this book made me want to drink hot chocolate. I found the ghost-writing moments to be fascinating. The ending was a little rushed. 

Cover Thoughts: Cute

Source: My Library

Learned about: I heard about this book on social media - it sounded fun.

Library Recommendation: Highly recommended for your romance collection. 

Middle Grade Review: Unstuck

 

Lyla is stoked that her English class will be spending time creative writing. She can't wait to start her fantasy novel. She might even make it part of a series. Lyla even creates the perfect opening sentence. But after that, she can't seem to write a single word.

Nothing is helping. Her teacher is trying by giving her all kinds of helpful hints. They don't help.

To make matters worse, drama creeps into the rest of her life. Her best friend attends another school and they are drifting apart. Her sister is applying for college. Dahlia isn't sure she wants to go to college.  

Most of her life, Lyla has been second to her perfect sister. For once in her life, Lyla could eclipse her sister. If only she could find the words.

My Thoughts: A fantastic book about writing and more importantly the process of writing. I spend a lot of time thinking about writing too. I loved the moments between the sisters. Things were tense between them as secrets are spilled. I felt bad for Lyla and her friendship drama. I enjoyed her moments with Journey. I loved the moments of Lyla in the library - and I loved that it was a place of sanctuary for her. I love that. This was a great blend of drama: friendship, family, and writing. Barbara Dee does it again!  

Cover Thoughts: Perfect

Source: My Library

Library Recommendation: A must have middle grade book for your school and public library collections!