Review: The Life Intended

The Life Intended by Kristin Harmel

My rating: 5 of 5 stars



I am so grateful this beautiful, lyrical tale of love lost and found came to me. You know those books that keep you up all night, make you smile, make you tear up so much you can't see the page? The Life Intended is all that and more.

I loved this book so much; author Kristin Harmel, a Floridian like me, writes with intelligence, compassion, and has obviously done her research to make her characters so very real. Whether it's protagonist's Kate's job as a Music Therapist (something I have an interest in), describing various aspects of ASL, American sign language, or educating the reader about those with hard of hearing, it never feels pedantic, but rich with so many layers.

I look forward to reading more by this author. This Five Star romance did not disappoint in any way, and was worth staying up all night to finish.

Note: I was sent this book as an XOXPERT, a member of XOXOAFTERDARK. My opinions and review are my own.

#xoxperts

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Review: Empower: Fight Like A Girl

Empower: Fight Like A Girl by Amy Berg

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



Great anthology for a fantastic cause

If you want to get your bad ass chick on, look no further than this awesome anthology of stories for women, by women. Proceeds go to help The Lupus Foundation of America Inc.

While not every story was five star worthy, the incredible talent gathered here for a good cause made for a pleasant read. I would typically read one story between books to make it last.

Totally worth every penny!



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Review: Wonder

Wonder by R.J. Palacio

My rating: 5 of 5 stars



A must read for all students!

Sometimes I learn the most, feel the most, when reading a children's/Young adult book. Wonder is no exception. This extraordinary book about a young boy, August, made me laugh, made me cry until my heart hurt. Though it's never completely named, August has a form of Treachers-Collins, which causes facial deformities at birth.

His amazing bravery at starting school, making friends, as well as enemies, made me love him even more. Each section is told by a character; future books feature other characters, friends and foes. We learn from each the struggles they go thru. Though they don't have a visible disability (except for Justin who briefly talks about his tics), each faces hardships at home and school that shape their character.

I absolutely love this book. The lessons of Kindness, tolerance, and overcoming fear is a good message that would serve all schools, and even adults. I cannot recommend this enough, and hope author R. J. Palacio will continue to write more of August's life.



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