Harvest of Rubies

Author: Tessa Afshar

Genre: Christian Fiction, Historical Fiction

Rating: 3 out of 5

Pages: 342

Date Started: 22 November 2022

Date Finished: 25 November 2022

I initially stumbled upon the second part of this book at the library, and realizing that I needed to read the first part before starting it, I picked up this volume to begin the series. The narrative revolves around the cousin of the prophet Nehemiah, who finds herself thrust into the heart of the Persian court. Sarah's life takes an unexpected turn as she works tirelessly, interacts with royalty, and even becomes the queen's favorite scribe. It's an impressive feat for a woman living in a male-dominated world. However, a haunting past has left Sarah grappling with feelings of unworthiness, believing that her accomplishments are the sole measure of her value. Darius Pasargadae, on the other hand, is accustomed to having things his way. As a wealthy and admired aristocrat, he certainly doesn't expect an arranged marriage to a woman who scorns him—the queen's scribe. This book delivers a light and engaging romance, with elements that resonate with young adult cheesy romance. Despite its simplicity, the story is thoroughly enjoyable, with no dull moments to be found. The plot maintains a steady hold on the reader's attention, ensuring that there are no dull scenes to contend with. The characters are endearing and uncomplicated, with Sarah's character standing out as she grapples with self-doubt and a constant need to prove herself. Her journey of learning to trust herself and her faith in a higher power is depicted with finesse. In summary, this book offers an enjoyable and well-written romance that keeps you hooked from start to finish. It captures the essence of faith, self-discovery, and personal growth through the lens of a charming love story.

Favorite lines from the book:

• You may fail; I cannot deny it. But if you go through life making every decision based on what is safest, you will look back one day and discover that you have missed out on the best.

• I never thought a day would come when almost being devoured by a lion would be the least of my problems.

• Persian women attacked facial and body hair like it was an enemy of the empire.

• To be at its best, it needs to suffer, yes. And fight.

• Pain is part of this life. No one can escape suffering. Not the vine, nor we humans, as you well know, my lady. But what if we are like the vine and that affliction only makes us better?

• It was a custom among Persian nobility not to present their sons to their fathers until the age of five. The idea was that should the child sicken or die, the father would be too heartbroken.

• This was the nature of life. Loss, grief, sorrow, regret were woven through the fabric of human destiny as uncompromisingly as joy, hope, and fulfillment. If one’s happiness rested only in the capture of one’s dreams, then happiness would prove fickle indeed.

Maybe Someday

Author: Colleen Hoover

Genre: Fiction, Romance

Rating: 1 out of 5

Pages: 384

Date Started: 15 November 2022

Date Finished: 22 November 2022

I had high hopes for this book based on its reviews and ratings, especially as it was part of the Hoover series I was eager to explore. The story introduces us to Sydney, a twenty-two-year-old with what appears to be a great life—college, a steady job, a loving boyfriend, Hunter, and the companionship of her best friend, Tori. However, her world shatters when she discovers Hunter's infidelity, leaving her at a crossroads. Sydney becomes entranced by her mysterious neighbor, Ridge, who captures her attention with his passionate guitar playing on his balcony. Likewise, Ridge finds something compelling about Sydney. Their paths inevitably cross, and they discover a mutual need for each other. Regrettably, this book stands as one of the longest I've ever read in terms of sheer boredom. The narrative felt unending, and the story lacked clear direction or purpose. It seemed to meander without a discernible plot or a sense of progression. Despite the anticipation of a gripping tale, it felt like the story was not going anywhere. Perhaps someday, I might forget that I read this book, but I certainly won't forget the lesson it taught me about choosing to continue a book that doesn't seem to be leading anywhere substantial. In the world of literature, there are too many captivating stories waiting to be discovered to invest time in one that fails to engage and enrich the reader.

Favorite lines from the book:

• A life of mediocrity is a waste of a life.

• You only miss the idea of him. You weren’t happy with him even before you found out he was cheating. You were only with him because it was comfortable. You just miss the relationship, but you don’t miss Hunter.

• Imagine walking into your first day of school to the realization that there is actually a way to communicate.

• You know, most things people say when they’re drunk are more accurate and honest than the things they say when they’re sober.

• I never realized how powerful desire could be. It consumes every part of you, enhancing your senses by a million.

• Desire is easy to fight. Especially when the only weapon desire possesses is attraction. It’s not so easy when you’re trying to win a war against the heart.

• I’m convinced that people come across others in life whose souls are completely compatible with their own. Some refer to them as soul mates. Some refer to it as true love.

• People try to bottle up their emotions, as if it’s somehow wrong to have natural reactions to life.

• Brennan told me the only time he’s aware of his own heartbeat is when it’s quiet and he’s being still. That’s not the case for me, because it’s always quiet in my world. I’m always aware of my heartbeat.

All That's Left Unsaid

Author: Tracey Lien

Genre: Fiction, Mystery

Rating: 3 out of 5

Pages: 304

Date Started: 7 November 2022

Date Finished: 14 November 2022

I'd long wanted to read this book, initially drawn in by its catchy title and the recommendation it received on Amazon. The narrative follows Ky Tran as she returns to Cabramatta, Australia for her brother Denny's funeral. Ky is shocked to discover that her parents declined an autopsy, leaving the circumstances of his death shrouded in uncertainty. All that is known is that he was killed in Lucky 8, where he attended a graduation celebration. Despite a multitude of people present at the restaurant, no one witnessed the incident, and the police have yet to identify a suspect. Ky embarks on a quest to unravel the mystery and seek closure with those around her. While this book is categorized as a mystery, it leans more towards being a cultural exploration than a traditional mystery. The author adeptly delves into themes such as the drug culture, racism, the clash of cultures between Vietnamese parents and their children, and the intricate dynamics within families and friendships. The story begins in detail, but its pace slows considerably at a certain point. One of the book's notable strengths is the portrayal of the cultural differences and conflicts between immigrant parents and their children. It effectively delves into teenage friendships and the complications that arise from familial issues and child abuse, capturing the intricacies of these relationships. Despite the author's skillful writing style, the book falls short in creating a true sense of mystery surrounding Denny's death. The narrative meanders, circling without arriving at a definitive point or providing a substantial resolution. While the story has elements of closure, it also leaves several loose ends, particularly regarding the mystery behind Denny's murder. In sum, this book offers an insightful exploration of cultural themes and family dynamics but may leave readers wanting more in terms of the central mystery's development and resolution.

Favorite lines from the book:

• We are poor too, but we never go hungry.

• If I get the depression and kill you, it will be because of this music! You're making everyone sad with your miserable music! Cut it out!

• Cockroaches were dirty and drawn to filthy homes. Crickets were friendly and neighbors who would only move into clean houses.

• Just because we are not perfect doesn't mean we are bad!

• Our parents fled authoritarian shit. Don't confuse a regime with a country and its people.

• She thinks the bigger the Buddha, the better the chances of your brother reincarnating into something good.

• Yeah, we're all selfish, but we gotta be.

• You can't be there for everyone. You can't be everything to everyone. People will make their own choices, no matter what you do.