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About Janelle
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Book Reviews
Word Nerd
Favorite Books
The Short List
About Janelle
Meet the Cats

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Janelle October 21, 2017 Leave a Comment

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Thank you @tlcbooktours and @amistadbooks for my copy AFRICAVILLE by Jeffrey Colvin
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This debut novel is a multigenerational saga that begins in the early twentieth century in Nova Scotia, Canada. We follow Kath Ella Sebolt, her son Omar/Etienne, and her grandson Warner over the course of decades as they endure racism and grapple with identity, among other trials and tribulations during a very haunting time.
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The writing is atmospheric, lyrical, beautiful, and the descriptions vivid. I enjoyed reading from Kath Ella’s perspective and would have loved to see more of her friendship with Kiendra. Learning more about the slave trade and the perspective of former slaves, fictional or otherwise, is quite compelling. I think Colvin does brilliant job with character development and tackling such an ambitious story. My biggest issue is with the pacing, where at times, the story didn’t just flow, but I definitely think this is worth a read. ★★★½

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Thank you @booksparks for my copy of REGRETTING YOU by @colleenhoover #FRC2019 ✨
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Side note: when I get the blanket setup just right, and Abby actually curls up on it, I feel like best cat mom ever ✨
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Back to REGRETTING YOU ✨ I guess I read romance now thanks to Colleen Hoover. Her books always seem to go down easy and make you think. I’ve only read 4 now, and ALL YOURS PERFECTS and VERITY are still my favorite of hers, but I loved this one. I enjoyed reading the dynamic of the relationship between Morgan and Clara. I just loved this bittersweet story ✨
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What genre have you dipped into because of Bookstagram?!! ✨

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🎄GIVEAWAY!!!!🎄 It’s Tuesday night and we’re feeling right and want to spread our holiday cheer with you all with TWO $50 Amazon gift cards!!!
🎄
Katie is one of the most genuine people I’ve come across. Her love of books and dogs is why I was drawn to her in the first place, but since then I’ve learned that she’s kind, generous, and truly a light in this bookish community. She’s always around to chat with and always there to help those in need. And she makes everyone feel like they are important. I am so lucky to call her a friend.
🎄
In that spirit, we’re celebrating each other and all of you with a giveaway! We’re making this easy, like our friendship!!
🎄
1. Follow me and @the_grateful_read
2. Tag a friend or two below
3. Share this to yours stories tagging us both so we can track!
🎄
That’s all! We’re so excited for TWO of you to win $50 Amazon gift cards!! Closes Sunday night, announcing winners on Monday! WE LOVE YOU! XOXO, J & K

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Oh my goodness, MONGRELS by Stephen Graham Jones! Once again the @night_worms crew inspired me to pick up a book up and it’s pure werewolf solid gold! By the way, anytime @mother.horror and @bookishmommy suggest a book, run, don’t walk, to your nearest bookstore! Everything they choose seems to SHINE 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
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I have never read a book that humanizes such a creature that didn’t go over-the-top with some -🙄 - moments. #MONGRELS is a brilliantly written, unique coming-of-age story about identity and finding your place in the world. This book is what made me immediately go buy three other books by #StephenGrahamJones 🔥I am absolutely convinced WEREWOLVES ARE REAL. I mean if you don’t believe me, read this book and decide for yourself! ★★★★★
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Also, I am SUPER EXCITED for his next book, THE ONLY GOOD INDIANS, out in May 2020! Keep your 👀 peeled for that one!
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What is the last book that made you giddy with excitement?!

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A SHARING IS CARING GIVEAWAY ☃️☃️
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I have partnered up with the tagged publishers to give this stack of books to one lucky reader - and that person gets to select a friend to get the same stack! Also the amazing people at @atriabooks included these friendship bracelets...Aren’t they lovely?! A while back I read THE DEAD GIRLS CLUB and really enjoyed it! Also, both IN FIVE YEARS and BIG LIES IN A SMALL TOWN look amazing! See details below to enter ☃️☃️
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Follow these rules to enter:
.
1. Like this post
2. Please follow me @shereadswithcats @stmartinspress @atriabooks & @crookedlanebooks
3. In the comments tag a buddy and tell me which book you’d want to read first ☃️☃️
.
BONUS: Share in your Insta stories for 24 hours and be sure to tag me ☃️☃️
.
US only • This is not affiliated with Instagram • Giveaway ends in 48 hours • Happy Holidays! ☃️☃️

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❄️❄️ FLASH HOLIDAY GIVEAWAY ❄️❄️
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In the spirit of CHRISTMAS I am giving away this lovely stack of books to one lucky winner! One book in particular is autographed by the author and movie cast! Including Joan Cusack, Dermot Mulroney, and Danny Glover! Can you guess which book I’m referring to?! Answer the question below in the comments and tag 3 holiday movie watching friends! ❄️
.
Additional rules to enter ☟
.
1. Like and save this post
2. Please follow me @shereadswithcats
3. Answer above question and tag 3 friends
4. Share in your Insta story for 24 hours and be sure to tag @shereadswithcats (you can do this twice)
.
US only • Not affiliated with Instagram • Giveaway ends in 48 hours • Happy Holidays! ❄️❄️

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Thank you so much @riverheadbooks for sending me a free copy ✨
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I am buddy reading LONG BRIGHT RIVER by @lizmoorebooks with @crystals_library and so far, it’s incredible. I’m in that place, you know that place where all you want to do is ignore everything and get back to the story?! Well friends, I AM IN IT ✨
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What are you all reading this weekend?!

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Thank you @williammorrowbooks @morrowgift for this adorable book! I sure do love these little guys 👽
.
If you haven’t seen these comics before, they are so fun! Nathan W. Pyle’s STRANGE PLANET is set in an “universe of pink, blue, green, and purple” and each one will guarantee to make you smile. Included are never-before-seen illustrations in addition to old favorites, offering a sweet and hilarious look at a distant world not all that unlike our own. Scroll ⇦ to see one of my favorites! 👽
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What’s the last book you gifted to a loved one?! 👽

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Thank you @littlebrown and @mulhollandbooks for the free copy ✨
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Selected by @reesesbookclub for December and I could not be more pleased. Denise Mina’s CONVICTION is unlike any other book I have read this year. It captivated me from cover to cover! I mean, a complicated protagonist with a secret past, a true crime podcast, and a murdered family...how is it even possible to put this book down?!
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The perspectives change between Anna and the podcast which keeps the reading momentum going. Not only do we follow along with intriguing characters and a true crime podcast, the story is relevant to the #MeToo movement as well as shines a light on the power of social media. It’s compulsive, suspenseful, modern, and with vivid characters and a twisty plot. ★★★★
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#ReadWithReese #ReesesBookClub #Conviction #DeniseMina

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Thank you so much @williammorrowbooks for sending me a free copy of MY DARK VANESSA by @kateelizabethrussell 🦋🦋
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I finished this book back in November and it is still seared in my mind. I couldn’t put it down. It’s truly unsettling, disturbing, and difficult to read but extremely relevant and necessary. I will write up a full review closer to the publication date, but definitely put this one on your TBR! Also please note, there are triggers for abuse and rape - I know it’s an uncomfortable subject matter to read but this book is absolutely incredible 🦋🦋
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What book are you most excited for in 2020? Drop your recommendations below 🦋🦋

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@booksparks @duttonbooks #partner
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I knew the minute Abby from @crimebythebook posted the cover reveal that I wanted to read @saracshepard’s REPUTATION. First off, the cover is so eye-catching and second, the book is a fantastically fun, witty, juicy, and drama-filled whodunnit! Shepard delivers the exact book I was looking for! It’s twisty, fast-paced, packed to the brim with scandal and a plethora of suspects.
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An unsuspecting hacker leaks 40,000 emails of students and the faculty of Aldrich University. Scandalous rumors and extramarital affairs are exposed causing chaos. Then prominent surgeon Dr. Greg Strasser is murdered, found by his wife Kit in his home, which causes the chaos to turn into full blown crazy. There’s a killer on the loose and everyone in this small college town has a secret.
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LOOK, LISTEN, this book is pure entertainment with a ton of twists, so expect to be in for a wild ride. We follow multiple perspectives which builds a healthy amount of suspense up until the very end. Every single character has a motive, everything is over-the-top, and I absolutely loved every bit of it. It’s a total, sit-down-with-your-favorite-cocktail, devour-in-one-sitting, sort of read. REPUTATION is pure brain candy! Highly recommend! ★★★★½

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@atriabooks [partner]
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Thank you so much to my sweet friend Katie from @the_grateful_read for sending me this book - she’s such a GEM ✨
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@williamkentkrueger’s THIS TENDER LAND surprised me in the best way. Even though the cover drew me in right away, I wasn’t sure if the story would interest me. But not only did it interest me, it was BEAUTIFUL.
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Set in 1932 Depression-era Minnesota, we follow the adventures of four orphans, Odie, Albert, Emmy, and Mose, who fled from the Lincoln Indian Training School, a school set up for Native American children who were separated from their parents. There they are abused and forbidden to engage in their native culture. Odie and Albert were sent to live there after their father was murdered, Emmy because her mother was killed by a tornado. Together with their friend Mose, a young Sioux who cannot speak, they escape for a life of escapades and exploits. They consider themselves vagabonds looking for a new home, but end up finding so much more.
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Krueger’s prose is as gorgeous and engaging as the story. Odie is our narrator and it’s interesting to see the world through his eyes as the characters embark on this harrowing journey down the Minnesota River. I learned a thing or two reading THIS TENDER LAND as it is a thought-provoking, mystical adventure that I won’t soon forget. ★★★★

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@booksparks [partner] THAT’S A WRAP 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
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This is me in my office in all my nerdy glory! I had the best time with the #hitthebookclub #FRC2019 lineup! I cannot thank #BookSparks enough for letting me be a part of this! Now, on to winter! ☃️☃️
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What are you looking forward most this season?!
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Scroll ⇦ to see the epic photo bomb 📸

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BEHOLD! The many faces of Abby! 😺😾😸😽😼
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Happy #CATURDAY everyone! Today Abby is modeling KNOW MY NAME by @chanelmillerknowmyname with a @sewhappystitchhappy gray plaid sleeve - a personal favorite 📸
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Three ways to describe this book: POWERFUL, BEAUTIFULLY WRITTEN, and NECESSARY READING MATERIAL. I opted for the UK cover because I cannot resist the pretty black and white! Special thanks to @sfbookgirl for posting this edition 🖤
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Do you read memoirs? If so, what’s the last 5★ memoir you’ve read?!!

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Happy Thursday! Happy Thanksgiving! May your day be filled with eating, TV binging, and napping! Also, wine - cheers!🍷🍷
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@bookishmommy came up with the coolest hashtag: #fivestarselfie 🔥💀 IN THE VALLEY OF THE SUN by Andy Davidson is my top choice! I was itching for a western and this one checked all the boxes. A finalist for the 2017 Bram Stoker award for a debut novel is IMPRESSIVE. I chose this book, one because it sounded amazing, two I love the cover, and three, Davidson has a new book coming out next year called THE BOATMAN’S DAUGHTER - one of my most anticipated reads for 2020!
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I devoured this gripping story at record speed. I quickly fell in love with Davidson’s unique style and mad storytelling skills. If you are looking for vampire lore set in West Texas with amazing characters (not kidding, every character is perfectly flawed and relatable), then this book is for you. IT’S PHENOMENAL. Also, I kind of want the paperback copy as well because it’s so badass 🔥💀
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Today and everyday I’m thankful for all of you, the amazing friends I’ve made here, the @night_worms crew, and ya da ya da...my husband/Abby/family. Tell me, what are you most thankful for?

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@tlcbooktours @natgeo [partner] 🌎🌍
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Once again National Geographic has created a book that is beautiful yet practical with HISTORY AT A GLANCE. It’s a comprehensive look at world history through multilayered timelines, organized by topic and region. The contents of this book cover everything from the beginning of humankind right up to our current digital information age.
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As always, with every #NatGeo book it features gorgeous vivid full-color illustrations throughout and the information is very easy to grasp and comprehend. Of course there are maps (you know how I love maps 😉) and beautiful photos, but the stars of the book are the wonderfully informative data grids, which cover relatively short periods of time and provide insight into the significant political, environmental, and cultural events that took place.
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This lovely tome is perfect for the history buffs in your life, and I’m happy to say it will have a residence on my coffee table for a long time to come.
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If you could live in any time period in history, which would it be? 📰🕰

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GIVEAWAY CLOSED 🚫🚫 @librofm [partner] IT’S AN AUDIOBOOK 3 MONTH MEMBERSHIP GIVEAWAY 🎉🎉
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I am so excited to host a giveaway from one of the best brands around... #LIBROFM - get fantastic audiobooks AND support an independent bookstore with your membership. It’s that simple! I made the #audiobookswitch and I have never looked back 🎧🦍
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If you are not an #audiobook fan like I am, you can gift it to a friend. It makes the perfect Christmas gift (hint, hint). Just follow the rules below to enter and make all your audiobook dreams come true 🎉🎉
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FUN FACT: I’m not sure if you noticed my t-shirt, but I chose this one specifically from the #merch store. KOKO the gorilla knew sign language, so this shirt combines my love of animals with the fact I know sign language. Although I’m a little rusty, it’s something I picked up quickly and was way out of my comfort zone. Because you can’t use the sound of your voice for emphasis, you have to be dramatic. I have stage fright, so taking each exam in front of the class was terrifying, but I did it! And did it well! 🎧🦍
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To enter this giveaway:
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1. Like this post
2. Please follow myself @shereadswithcats and @librofm
3. Tag 2 friends in the comments and tell me a “FUN FACT” about yourself 🎉🎉
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BONUS entry each time you comment (please don’t tag the same friends twice) 🎧🦍
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Giveaway ends on 12/3! Good luck! 🎉🎉

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@randomhouse @riverheadbooks @aaknopf @hmhbooks @flatiron_books [partner] Happy Monday from Miss Abby! 😽
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I love Dennis’ #scaredstraightstack challenges and today’s #bookstagrammademedoit is perfect! Also, I’m combining this with @jordys.book.club and @kraysbookclub #bookstathankful challenge, because if there is anything for me to be #thankful for it’s this bookish community 😽
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I pay very close attention to the books coming out and add endless amounts to my #TBR stack, so when a #bookstagrammer unknowingly nudges me to pick up a book next, it’s an event. Here are the accounts that had a hand in this stack. Trust me, every person I interact with is someone who plays a part in my reading game so THANK YOU 😽
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Also, special thanks to @crystals_library for tagging me in the buddy read giveaway - I’m so excited to read LONG BRIGHT RIVER with you 😽
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@scaredstraightreads (obvi)
@mother.horror (my #horror hero)
@wherethereadergrows
@crimebythebook (my #crimefiction hero)
@belletrist (duh)
@shelfbyshelf
@jobis89
@franzencomesalive (my #book hero)
@ouija.doodle.reads
@book.happy
@readwithjamie

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Who can’t believe it’s almost December?! Chandra and I are so excited for the next #BuddyReadstoDieFor because it’s Erin Craig’s HOUSE OF SALT AND SORROW ✨✨✨
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We thought this one would be a lot of fun for the month of December because it’s said to be atmospheric, eerie, mesmerizing, lovely, and immersive - all things we love! ✨✨✨
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Take a peek at the synopsis and let us know in the comments if you’ll be joining us! We keep things super casual, read-at-your-own-pace style, so no pressure. We schedule one spoiler filled day to discuss, so until then we just support each other and engage in some happy-go-lucky chit chat ✨✨✨
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𝓢𝔂𝓷𝓸𝓹𝓼𝓲𝓼: Annaleigh lives a sheltered life at Highmoor with her sisters and their father and stepmother. Once there were twelve, but loneliness fills the grand halls now that four of the girls' lives have been cut short. Each death was more tragic than the last--the plague, a plummeting fall, a drowning, a slippery plunge--and there are whispers throughout the surrounding villages that the family is cursed by the gods. Disturbed by a series of ghostly visions, Annaleigh becomes increasingly suspicious that her sister's deaths were no accidents. House of Salt and Sorrows is a spellbinding novel filled with magic and the rustle of gossamer skirts down long, dark hallways. Get ready to be swept away.

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@aaknopf #partner | Happy #Caturday from Abby *meow* 🐱🐰
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I picked up MARY TOFT; OR, THE RABBIT QUEEN by Dexter Palmer and WOAH. I immediately wanted to read this book when I saw the cover and then I realized this book is based on a real person. Mary Toft did some rather questionable things with animal parts...like mouth agape things. It’s an interesting book that reads quickly. It’s categorized as historical fiction, a device that authors sometime use so dialogue flows naturally, but do not be fooled: SHE ACTUALLY DID all of these things. If you are looking for a historically gross crime with the most fantastic cover, I highly recommend reading MARY TOFT; OR, THE RABBIT QUEEN 🐱🐰
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#bookrecquickies #shereadswithcats #abbythetinytabby

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📖 𝖾𝖼𝗅𝖾𝖼𝗍𝗂𝖼 𝗋𝖾𝖺𝖽𝖾𝗋
🌤 𝗇. 𝖼𝖺𝗅𝗂𝖿𝗈𝗋𝗇𝗂𝖺
✍🏻 𝖻𝗈𝗈𝗄 𝗋𝖾𝖼𝗌 & 𝗋𝖾𝗏𝗂𝖾𝗐𝗌
🐛 @night_worms
#shereadswithcats
𝖲𝖧𝖤𝖱𝖤𝖠𝖣𝖲☟
@bookartbookmarks
@sewhappystitchhappy
@librofm ☟

Instagram post 2196994349089386128_5480751027

Thank you @tlcbooktours and @amistadbooks for my copy AFRICAVILLE by Jeffrey Colvin
.
This debut novel is a multigenerational saga that begins in the early twentieth century in Nova Scotia, Canada. We follow Kath Ella Sebolt, her son Omar/Etienne, and her grandson Warner over the course of decades as they endure racism and grapple with identity, among other trials and tribulations during a very haunting time.
.
The writing is atmospheric, lyrical, beautiful, and the descriptions vivid. I enjoyed reading from Kath Ella’s perspective and would have loved to see more of her friendship with Kiendra. Learning more about the slave trade and the perspective of former slaves, fictional or otherwise, is quite compelling. I think Colvin does brilliant job with character development and tackling such an ambitious story. My biggest issue is with the pacing, where at times, the story didn’t just flow, but I definitely think this is worth a read. ★★★½

Instagram post 2196239655404411019_5480751027

Thank you @booksparks for my copy of REGRETTING YOU by @colleenhoover #FRC2019 ✨
.
Side note: when I get the blanket setup just right, and Abby actually curls up on it, I feel like best cat mom ever ✨
.
Back to REGRETTING YOU ✨ I guess I read romance now thanks to Colleen Hoover. Her books always seem to go down easy and make you think. I’ve only read 4 now, and ALL YOURS PERFECTS and VERITY are still my favorite of hers, but I loved this one. I enjoyed reading the dynamic of the relationship between Morgan and Clara. I just loved this bittersweet story ✨
.
What genre have you dipped into because of Bookstagram?!! ✨

Instagram post 2196206739161072797_5480751027

🎄GIVEAWAY!!!!🎄 It’s Tuesday night and we’re feeling right and want to spread our holiday cheer with you all with TWO $50 Amazon gift cards!!!
🎄
Katie is one of the most genuine people I’ve come across. Her love of books and dogs is why I was drawn to her in the first place, but since then I’ve learned that she’s kind, generous, and truly a light in this bookish community. She’s always around to chat with and always there to help those in need. And she makes everyone feel like they are important. I am so lucky to call her a friend.
🎄
In that spirit, we’re celebrating each other and all of you with a giveaway! We’re making this easy, like our friendship!!
🎄
1. Follow me and @the_grateful_read
2. Tag a friend or two below
3. Share this to yours stories tagging us both so we can track!
🎄
That’s all! We’re so excited for TWO of you to win $50 Amazon gift cards!! Closes Sunday night, announcing winners on Monday! WE LOVE YOU! XOXO, J & K

Instagram post 2195508349854996872_5480751027

Oh my goodness, MONGRELS by Stephen Graham Jones! Once again the @night_worms crew inspired me to pick up a book up and it’s pure werewolf solid gold! By the way, anytime @mother.horror and @bookishmommy suggest a book, run, don’t walk, to your nearest bookstore! Everything they choose seems to SHINE 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
.
I have never read a book that humanizes such a creature that didn’t go over-the-top with some -🙄 - moments. #MONGRELS is a brilliantly written, unique coming-of-age story about identity and finding your place in the world. This book is what made me immediately go buy three other books by #StephenGrahamJones 🔥I am absolutely convinced WEREWOLVES ARE REAL. I mean if you don’t believe me, read this book and decide for yourself! ★★★★★
.
Also, I am SUPER EXCITED for his next book, THE ONLY GOOD INDIANS, out in May 2020! Keep your 👀 peeled for that one!
.
What is the last book that made you giddy with excitement?!

Instagram post 2195309527790858990_5480751027

A SHARING IS CARING GIVEAWAY ☃️☃️
.
I have partnered up with the tagged publishers to give this stack of books to one lucky reader - and that person gets to select a friend to get the same stack! Also the amazing people at @atriabooks included these friendship bracelets...Aren’t they lovely?! A while back I read THE DEAD GIRLS CLUB and really enjoyed it! Also, both IN FIVE YEARS and BIG LIES IN A SMALL TOWN look amazing! See details below to enter ☃️☃️
.
Follow these rules to enter:
.
1. Like this post
2. Please follow me @shereadswithcats @stmartinspress @atriabooks & @crookedlanebooks
3. In the comments tag a buddy and tell me which book you’d want to read first ☃️☃️
.
BONUS: Share in your Insta stories for 24 hours and be sure to tag me ☃️☃️
.
US only • This is not affiliated with Instagram • Giveaway ends in 48 hours • Happy Holidays! ☃️☃️

Instagram post 2194734322240583495_5480751027

❄️❄️ FLASH HOLIDAY GIVEAWAY ❄️❄️
.
In the spirit of CHRISTMAS I am giving away this lovely stack of books to one lucky winner! One book in particular is autographed by the author and movie cast! Including Joan Cusack, Dermot Mulroney, and Danny Glover! Can you guess which book I’m referring to?! Answer the question below in the comments and tag 3 holiday movie watching friends! ❄️
.
Additional rules to enter ☟
.
1. Like and save this post
2. Please follow me @shereadswithcats
3. Answer above question and tag 3 friends
4. Share in your Insta story for 24 hours and be sure to tag @shereadswithcats (you can do this twice)
.
US only • Not affiliated with Instagram • Giveaway ends in 48 hours • Happy Holidays! ❄️❄️

Instagram post 2193912271363880533_5480751027

Thank you so much @riverheadbooks for sending me a free copy ✨
.
I am buddy reading LONG BRIGHT RIVER by @lizmoorebooks with @crystals_library and so far, it’s incredible. I’m in that place, you know that place where all you want to do is ignore everything and get back to the story?! Well friends, I AM IN IT ✨
.
What are you all reading this weekend?!

Instagram post 2193328885805069532_5480751027

Thank you @williammorrowbooks @morrowgift for this adorable book! I sure do love these little guys 👽
.
If you haven’t seen these comics before, they are so fun! Nathan W. Pyle’s STRANGE PLANET is set in an “universe of pink, blue, green, and purple” and each one will guarantee to make you smile. Included are never-before-seen illustrations in addition to old favorites, offering a sweet and hilarious look at a distant world not all that unlike our own. Scroll ⇦ to see one of my favorites! 👽
.
What’s the last book you gifted to a loved one?! 👽

Instagram post 2192720522846942217_5480751027

Thank you @littlebrown and @mulhollandbooks for the free copy ✨
.
Selected by @reesesbookclub for December and I could not be more pleased. Denise Mina’s CONVICTION is unlike any other book I have read this year. It captivated me from cover to cover! I mean, a complicated protagonist with a secret past, a true crime podcast, and a murdered family...how is it even possible to put this book down?!
.
The perspectives change between Anna and the podcast which keeps the reading momentum going. Not only do we follow along with intriguing characters and a true crime podcast, the story is relevant to the #MeToo movement as well as shines a light on the power of social media. It’s compulsive, suspenseful, modern, and with vivid characters and a twisty plot. ★★★★
.
#ReadWithReese #ReesesBookClub #Conviction #DeniseMina

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Thank you so much @williammorrowbooks for sending me a free copy of MY DARK VANESSA by @kateelizabethrussell 🦋🦋
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I finished this book back in November and it is still seared in my mind. I couldn’t put it down. It’s truly unsettling, disturbing, and difficult to read but extremely relevant and necessary. I will write up a full review closer to the publication date, but definitely put this one on your TBR! Also please note, there are triggers for abuse and rape - I know it’s an uncomfortable subject matter to read but this book is absolutely incredible 🦋🦋
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What book are you most excited for in 2020? Drop your recommendations below 🦋🦋

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@booksparks @duttonbooks #partner
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I knew the minute Abby from @crimebythebook posted the cover reveal that I wanted to read @saracshepard’s REPUTATION. First off, the cover is so eye-catching and second, the book is a fantastically fun, witty, juicy, and drama-filled whodunnit! Shepard delivers the exact book I was looking for! It’s twisty, fast-paced, packed to the brim with scandal and a plethora of suspects.
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An unsuspecting hacker leaks 40,000 emails of students and the faculty of Aldrich University. Scandalous rumors and extramarital affairs are exposed causing chaos. Then prominent surgeon Dr. Greg Strasser is murdered, found by his wife Kit in his home, which causes the chaos to turn into full blown crazy. There’s a killer on the loose and everyone in this small college town has a secret.
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LOOK, LISTEN, this book is pure entertainment with a ton of twists, so expect to be in for a wild ride. We follow multiple perspectives which builds a healthy amount of suspense up until the very end. Every single character has a motive, everything is over-the-top, and I absolutely loved every bit of it. It’s a total, sit-down-with-your-favorite-cocktail, devour-in-one-sitting, sort of read. REPUTATION is pure brain candy! Highly recommend! ★★★★½

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@atriabooks [partner]
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Thank you so much to my sweet friend Katie from @the_grateful_read for sending me this book - she’s such a GEM ✨
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@williamkentkrueger’s THIS TENDER LAND surprised me in the best way. Even though the cover drew me in right away, I wasn’t sure if the story would interest me. But not only did it interest me, it was BEAUTIFUL.
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Set in 1932 Depression-era Minnesota, we follow the adventures of four orphans, Odie, Albert, Emmy, and Mose, who fled from the Lincoln Indian Training School, a school set up for Native American children who were separated from their parents. There they are abused and forbidden to engage in their native culture. Odie and Albert were sent to live there after their father was murdered, Emmy because her mother was killed by a tornado. Together with their friend Mose, a young Sioux who cannot speak, they escape for a life of escapades and exploits. They consider themselves vagabonds looking for a new home, but end up finding so much more.
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Krueger’s prose is as gorgeous and engaging as the story. Odie is our narrator and it’s interesting to see the world through his eyes as the characters embark on this harrowing journey down the Minnesota River. I learned a thing or two reading THIS TENDER LAND as it is a thought-provoking, mystical adventure that I won’t soon forget. ★★★★

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@booksparks [partner] THAT’S A WRAP 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
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This is me in my office in all my nerdy glory! I had the best time with the #hitthebookclub #FRC2019 lineup! I cannot thank #BookSparks enough for letting me be a part of this! Now, on to winter! ☃️☃️
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What are you looking forward most this season?!
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Scroll ⇦ to see the epic photo bomb 📸

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BEHOLD! The many faces of Abby! 😺😾😸😽😼
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Happy #CATURDAY everyone! Today Abby is modeling KNOW MY NAME by @chanelmillerknowmyname with a @sewhappystitchhappy gray plaid sleeve - a personal favorite 📸
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Three ways to describe this book: POWERFUL, BEAUTIFULLY WRITTEN, and NECESSARY READING MATERIAL. I opted for the UK cover because I cannot resist the pretty black and white! Special thanks to @sfbookgirl for posting this edition 🖤
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Do you read memoirs? If so, what’s the last 5★ memoir you’ve read?!!

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Happy Thursday! Happy Thanksgiving! May your day be filled with eating, TV binging, and napping! Also, wine - cheers!🍷🍷
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@bookishmommy came up with the coolest hashtag: #fivestarselfie 🔥💀 IN THE VALLEY OF THE SUN by Andy Davidson is my top choice! I was itching for a western and this one checked all the boxes. A finalist for the 2017 Bram Stoker award for a debut novel is IMPRESSIVE. I chose this book, one because it sounded amazing, two I love the cover, and three, Davidson has a new book coming out next year called THE BOATMAN’S DAUGHTER - one of my most anticipated reads for 2020!
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I devoured this gripping story at record speed. I quickly fell in love with Davidson’s unique style and mad storytelling skills. If you are looking for vampire lore set in West Texas with amazing characters (not kidding, every character is perfectly flawed and relatable), then this book is for you. IT’S PHENOMENAL. Also, I kind of want the paperback copy as well because it’s so badass 🔥💀
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Today and everyday I’m thankful for all of you, the amazing friends I’ve made here, the @night_worms crew, and ya da ya da...my husband/Abby/family. Tell me, what are you most thankful for?

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@tlcbooktours @natgeo [partner] 🌎🌍
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Once again National Geographic has created a book that is beautiful yet practical with HISTORY AT A GLANCE. It’s a comprehensive look at world history through multilayered timelines, organized by topic and region. The contents of this book cover everything from the beginning of humankind right up to our current digital information age.
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As always, with every #NatGeo book it features gorgeous vivid full-color illustrations throughout and the information is very easy to grasp and comprehend. Of course there are maps (you know how I love maps 😉) and beautiful photos, but the stars of the book are the wonderfully informative data grids, which cover relatively short periods of time and provide insight into the significant political, environmental, and cultural events that took place.
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This lovely tome is perfect for the history buffs in your life, and I’m happy to say it will have a residence on my coffee table for a long time to come.
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If you could live in any time period in history, which would it be? 📰🕰

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GIVEAWAY CLOSED 🚫🚫 @librofm [partner] IT’S AN AUDIOBOOK 3 MONTH MEMBERSHIP GIVEAWAY 🎉🎉
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I am so excited to host a giveaway from one of the best brands around... #LIBROFM - get fantastic audiobooks AND support an independent bookstore with your membership. It’s that simple! I made the #audiobookswitch and I have never looked back 🎧🦍
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If you are not an #audiobook fan like I am, you can gift it to a friend. It makes the perfect Christmas gift (hint, hint). Just follow the rules below to enter and make all your audiobook dreams come true 🎉🎉
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FUN FACT: I’m not sure if you noticed my t-shirt, but I chose this one specifically from the #merch store. KOKO the gorilla knew sign language, so this shirt combines my love of animals with the fact I know sign language. Although I’m a little rusty, it’s something I picked up quickly and was way out of my comfort zone. Because you can’t use the sound of your voice for emphasis, you have to be dramatic. I have stage fright, so taking each exam in front of the class was terrifying, but I did it! And did it well! 🎧🦍
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To enter this giveaway:
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1. Like this post
2. Please follow myself @shereadswithcats and @librofm
3. Tag 2 friends in the comments and tell me a “FUN FACT” about yourself 🎉🎉
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BONUS entry each time you comment (please don’t tag the same friends twice) 🎧🦍
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Giveaway ends on 12/3! Good luck! 🎉🎉

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@randomhouse @riverheadbooks @aaknopf @hmhbooks @flatiron_books [partner] Happy Monday from Miss Abby! 😽
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I love Dennis’ #scaredstraightstack challenges and today’s #bookstagrammademedoit is perfect! Also, I’m combining this with @jordys.book.club and @kraysbookclub #bookstathankful challenge, because if there is anything for me to be #thankful for it’s this bookish community 😽
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I pay very close attention to the books coming out and add endless amounts to my #TBR stack, so when a #bookstagrammer unknowingly nudges me to pick up a book next, it’s an event. Here are the accounts that had a hand in this stack. Trust me, every person I interact with is someone who plays a part in my reading game so THANK YOU 😽
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Also, special thanks to @crystals_library for tagging me in the buddy read giveaway - I’m so excited to read LONG BRIGHT RIVER with you 😽
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@scaredstraightreads (obvi)
@mother.horror (my #horror hero)
@wherethereadergrows
@crimebythebook (my #crimefiction hero)
@belletrist (duh)
@shelfbyshelf
@jobis89
@franzencomesalive (my #book hero)
@ouija.doodle.reads
@book.happy
@readwithjamie

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Who can’t believe it’s almost December?! Chandra and I are so excited for the next #BuddyReadstoDieFor because it’s Erin Craig’s HOUSE OF SALT AND SORROW ✨✨✨
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We thought this one would be a lot of fun for the month of December because it’s said to be atmospheric, eerie, mesmerizing, lovely, and immersive - all things we love! ✨✨✨
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Take a peek at the synopsis and let us know in the comments if you’ll be joining us! We keep things super casual, read-at-your-own-pace style, so no pressure. We schedule one spoiler filled day to discuss, so until then we just support each other and engage in some happy-go-lucky chit chat ✨✨✨
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𝓢𝔂𝓷𝓸𝓹𝓼𝓲𝓼: Annaleigh lives a sheltered life at Highmoor with her sisters and their father and stepmother. Once there were twelve, but loneliness fills the grand halls now that four of the girls' lives have been cut short. Each death was more tragic than the last--the plague, a plummeting fall, a drowning, a slippery plunge--and there are whispers throughout the surrounding villages that the family is cursed by the gods. Disturbed by a series of ghostly visions, Annaleigh becomes increasingly suspicious that her sister's deaths were no accidents. House of Salt and Sorrows is a spellbinding novel filled with magic and the rustle of gossamer skirts down long, dark hallways. Get ready to be swept away.

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@aaknopf #partner | Happy #Caturday from Abby *meow* 🐱🐰
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I picked up MARY TOFT; OR, THE RABBIT QUEEN by Dexter Palmer and WOAH. I immediately wanted to read this book when I saw the cover and then I realized this book is based on a real person. Mary Toft did some rather questionable things with animal parts...like mouth agape things. It’s an interesting book that reads quickly. It’s categorized as historical fiction, a device that authors sometime use so dialogue flows naturally, but do not be fooled: SHE ACTUALLY DID all of these things. If you are looking for a historically gross crime with the most fantastic cover, I highly recommend reading MARY TOFT; OR, THE RABBIT QUEEN 🐱🐰
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#bookrecquickies #shereadswithcats #abbythetinytabby

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