Darling Review

Darling, by India Knight, is a retelling of Nancy Mitford's Pursuit of Love. I wanted to like this book more than I did, because I felt it had the potential to captivate, but it just wasn't for me. While the characters were wonderfully crafted with strong voices, it felt choppy and I never could comfortably settle into reading it. I'd read a chapter, then wander off to do something, come back and read another, then wander off again. 

I think it was wonderfully written and full of entertaining characters, so I did enjoy that part of it. The story itself did not hold my attention at all, and I almost DNFed it, but since it was short, I was able to finish it in a day. To be fair, most reviewers were thrilled with it and sang its praises, so give it a try and see what you think. 

Thanks to NetGalley, India Knight, and Penguin for providing the ARC for my review. 

So Long, Chester Wheeler Review

I've just finished this wonderful book, So Long, Chester Wheeler by Catherine Ryan Hyde. A firm 5 STARS!

Neighbours Lewis and Chester, a very unlikely pair, find themselves thrown together by a series of unfortunate events. Lewis is a young gay man in dire need of a job, and Chester is an irascible old homophobe in need of a caregiver. Neither one of them wants each other around, but since Chester has run off all the local caregivers, and Lewis has rent due, they find themselves grudgingly accepting that fate has thrown them together. 

They predictably get off to a bad start, but it's the start of a journey, both figuratively and literally for them, and what lies ahead is a bumpy road of give and take. They learn things about themselves and each other that challenge long held opinions, expose secrets, and break down barriers. 

Don't get the idea that this is a gloomy downer of a book; far from it! We're talking  heartwarming and funny, with wonderful dialogue and situations. It's a book that finds humor even in the most embarrassing or tense situations, and Lewis' wit gives a perfect comic relief when needed. 

I fell in love with Lewis and, after a bittersweet revelation about Chester's past, I found a soft spot for him, as well. 

All in all, this is an uplifting, feel good story that I highly recommend.

Thanks go to NetGalley, Catherine Ryan Hyde, and Lake Union Publishers for the opportunity to review this ARC.