Mela's bookshelf: read en-US Sat, 12 Jul 2025 23:59:15 -0700 60 Mela's bookshelf: read 144 41 /images/layout/goodreads_logo_144.jpg <![CDATA[Appointment in Bath (Somerset Stories, #4)]]> 81414076 A chance meeting between the sheltered daughter and the forward-thinking son of rival Victorian families sparks a forbidden romance in USA Today bestselling author Mimi Matthews's fourth book in her acclaimed Somerset Stories series.

Shy and stammering Meg Burton-Smythe has spent the whole of her life living on the fringes of local society. She's more comfortable with her daydreams than she is with people. But when a dashing, golden-haired hero rides to her rescue one morning, she dares to hope that her dreams might finally come true. There's only one problem: her handsome rescuer is the son of her father's sworn enemy.

Ivo Beresford doesn't believe in clinging to the past. Freshly returned from a lengthy grand tour, he's looking to the future, eager to spearhead the building of a new railway extension in Somersetshire. But an unexpected encounter with Meg Burton-Smythe, the isolated only daughter of his parents' oldest foe, sets the past and the future colliding.

Resolved to put ancient grudges to rest—at least where innocent young ladies are concerned—Ivo encourages lonely Meg to embark on a secret acquaintance. After all, what harm can a friendship do? It isn't as though there's any danger of the two of them falling in love...]]>
280 Mimi Matthews 1736080253 Mela 0 to-read-perhaps 4.11 2023 Appointment in Bath (Somerset Stories, #4)
author: Mimi Matthews
name: Mela
average rating: 4.11
book published: 2023
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/07/12
shelves: to-read-perhaps
review:

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Drabina 204360394 Książka Roku 2023 w Ukrainie

Brawurowa opowieść o (nie)udanej ucieczce i (nie)spodziewanym powrocie

Eugenia Kuzniecowa to świeży, zaskakujący głos literatury ukraińskiej. Pisarka życie dzieli między ojczyznę, a Hiszpanię (gdzie pracuje na uniwersytecie i wraz z mężem wychowuje dzieci). Jej nowa powieść o próbie ucieczki przed rodziną, wojną i własnym niedostosowaniem wyrasta z życia na dwóch krańcach Europy.

Introwertyczny Tolik zawsze marzył o własnym domu w Hiszpanii. Kiedy jego marzenie się spełniło i usiadł w wygodnym fotelu, w Ukrainie wybuchła wojna. U progu pojawiła się matka z jego siostrą i jej przyjaciółką, wujem, cioteczną babką, dwoma kotami i hałaśliwym psem. Wyśniona oaza spokoju do złudzenia zaczęła przypominać jego dom rodzinny nieopodal Winnicy. W fontannie, na tonie nawozu, cioteczna babka posadziła pomidory, wujek uzależnił się od flippera, matka nie przestaje dopytywać o narzeczoną. A Tolik, by nie oszaleć, wchodzi do swojego pokoju przez balkon, po drabinie. Taka sytuacja nie może trwać wiecznie.

Eugenia Kuzniecowa z pazurem opowiada o zagmatwanych relacjach rodzinnych, nieoczywistych emocjach i życiu w cieniu wojny. Drabina to napisana z humorem, urzekająca, wielowarstwowa opowieść o sile rodzinnych więzi, niespodziewanej miłości i o tym, że największe niespodzianki potrafimy sprawiać sami sobie.]]>
304 Yevhenia Kuznetsova 8324068279 Mela 5 A beautiful, charming story.

The topic (Ukrainian war immigrants and how they coped with war that is still going on) was hurtful but the author wrote it wonderfully, with hope and understanding, but without patronizing and simplification.

A gem. I loved it and I wanted to hug the characters.

I’ll keep up with the author’s new releases and make sure to read them.]]>
3.89 2023 Drabina
author: Yevhenia Kuznetsova
name: Mela
average rating: 3.89
book published: 2023
rating: 5
read at: 2025/02/26
date added: 2025/07/12
shelves: group-local-book-clubs, 2000-today, 2000-today-romance, humor, authors-to-explore, read-only-in-polish, region-spain, region-southeast-europe, region-other-european-countries
review:
A beautiful, charming story.

The topic (Ukrainian war immigrants and how they coped with war that is still going on) was hurtful but the author wrote it wonderfully, with hope and understanding, but without patronizing and simplification.

A gem. I loved it and I wanted to hug the characters.

I’ll keep up with the author’s new releases and make sure to read them.
]]>
Biała gorączka 10474691 400 Jacek Hugo-Bader 8375362662 Mela 0 3.87 2009 Biała gorączka
author: Jacek Hugo-Bader
name: Mela
average rating: 3.87
book published: 2009
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/07/12
shelves: currently-reading, audio-book, zzz-local-library, reportage, region-russia, region-southeast-europe, region-other-european-countries
review:

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<![CDATA[W rajskiej dolinie wśród zielska]]> 8254476 400 Jacek Hugo-Bader 8375361178 Mela 5 4.17 2002 W rajskiej dolinie wśród zielska
author: Jacek Hugo-Bader
name: Mela
average rating: 4.17
book published: 2002
rating: 5
read at: 2025/07/12
date added: 2025/07/12
shelves: audio-book, zzz-local-library, 1945-1990s, favourite-authors, historical-period-1914-1945, history, non-fiction, region-russia, reportage
review:
Hugo-Bader is a brilliant reporter. This collection of reportages was written in the 90s of XX century, and was about people, cities, institutions, that were created and developed (or not) in the USSR, and what happened with them in the first years after the fall of the USSR. This comparison of the reality as it used to be, and as it was after the political changes, all in a sharp, uncompromising and witty style, even three decades later, is a priceless lesson in history and about human nature.
]]>
The Parasites 50251 352 Daphne du Maurier 1844080722 Mela 0 3.62 1949 The Parasites
author: Daphne du Maurier
name: Mela
average rating: 3.62
book published: 1949
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/07/11
shelves: group-guardian-1000-novels, group-virago-modern-classic, group-retro-reads, currently-reading, zzz-local-library, read-only-in-polish
review:

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<![CDATA[Chesapeake Blue (Chesapeake Bay Saga, #4)]]> 114187
It's been a long journey. After a harrowing boyhood with his drug-addicted mother, Seth had been taken in by the Quinn family, growing up with three older brothers who'd watched over him with love.

Now a grown man returning from Europe as a successful painter, Seth is settling down on Maryland's Eastern Shore, surrounded once again by Cam, Ethan, and Phil, their wives and children, and all the blessed chaos of the extended Quinn clan. Finally, he's back in the little blue-and-white house where there's always a boat at the dock, a rocker on the porch, and a dog in the yard.

Still, a lot has changed in St. Christopher's since he's been gone—and the most intriguing change of all is the presence of Dru Whitcomb Banks. A city girl who has opened a florist shop in this seaside town, she craves independence and the challenge of establishing herself without the influence of her wealthy connections. In Seth, she sees another kind of challenge—a challenge that she can't resist.

But storms are brewing that are about to put their relationship to the test. Dru's past has made her sensitive to deception and slow to trust. And Seth's past has made him a target of blackmail—as a secret he's kept hidden for years threatens to explode, destroying his new life and his new love.]]>
357 Nora Roberts 0515136263 Mela 0
Unfortunately, the characters irritated me, especially the main couple. For me, they were too "much created for a romance". I won't go into detail about why. After the fourth chapter, I decided that it would have been a waste of my time.]]>
4.17 2002 Chesapeake Blue (Chesapeake Bay Saga, #4)
author: Nora Roberts
name: Mela
average rating: 4.17
book published: 2002
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/07/11
shelves: did-not-finish, zzz-local-library
review:
Perhaps it was a mistake to read this part of the series without knowing the previous ones. Perhaps if I had grown attached to the characters earlier, this (sort of) epilogue would have been more enjoyable.

Unfortunately, the characters irritated me, especially the main couple. For me, they were too "much created for a romance". I won't go into detail about why. After the fourth chapter, I decided that it would have been a waste of my time.
]]>
China Court 17248723 352 Rumer Godden 1844088553 Mela 3
I didn't learn much about the members of Quin's family, but enough to enjoy the tangle of life.
I admit, some descriptions (of the house or garden) were too long for my taste, but I could always skip them.

What I don't understand is the ending (the last scene) and the whole idea of Eliza's books and Ripsie's will. I was odd.

[3-3.5 stars]]]>
3.67 1961 China Court
author: Rumer Godden
name: Mela
average rating: 3.67
book published: 1961
rating: 3
read at: 2025/07/10
date added: 2025/07/11
shelves: internet-archive, group-virago-modern-classic, 1945-1990s, 1945-1990s-romance, historical-fiction, historical-period-1914-1945, historical-period-long-19th-century, historical-romance, region-british
review:
I liked how the story was revealed, perhaps a bit chaotic, but on the other hand, it pictured the "family house" splendidly. Normally, I would have complained about this kind of narration, but this time it did the trick.

I didn't learn much about the members of Quin's family, but enough to enjoy the tangle of life.
I admit, some descriptions (of the house or garden) were too long for my taste, but I could always skip them.

What I don't understand is the ending (the last scene) and the whole idea of Eliza's books and Ripsie's will. I was odd.

[3-3.5 stars]
]]>
<![CDATA[The Heart Principle (The Kiss Quotient, #3)]]> 50056075 A woman struggling with burnout learns to embrace the unexpected—and the man she enlists to help her—in this new New York Times bestselling romance by Helen Hoang.

When violinist Anna Sun accidentally achieves career success with a viral YouTube video, she finds herself incapacitated and burned out from her attempts to replicate that moment. And when her longtime boyfriend announces he wants an open relationship before making a final commitment, a hurt and angry Anna decides that if he wants an open relationship, then she does, too. Translation: She’s going to embark on a string of one-night stands. The more unacceptable the men, the better.

That’s where tattooed, motorcycle-riding Quan Diep comes in. Their first attempt at a one-night stand fails, as does their second, and their third, because being with Quan is more than sex—he accepts Anna on an unconditional level that she herself has just started to understand. However, when tragedy strikes Anna’s family she takes on a role that she is ill-suited for, until the burden of expectations threatens to destroy her. Anna and Quan have to fight for their chance at love, but to do that, they also have to fight for themselves.]]>
339 Helen Hoang 0451490843 Mela 5
I appreciated the topic of caring for dying loved ones and a bit about the right to euthanasia - it's great that these topics appeared and were presented so wisely.

I felt the reality of the experiences, and it was nice to meet the characters from the previous parts.

And Quan... It's wonderful that one can still meet the hero of a romance that has something original, that can evoke that feeling for which we read romanses.]]>
3.91 2021 The Heart Principle (The Kiss Quotient, #3)
author: Helen Hoang
name: Mela
average rating: 3.91
book published: 2021
rating: 5
read at: 2025/07/07
date added: 2025/07/07
shelves: psychological-and-philosophical, 2000-today-romance, 2000-today, series, region-usa
review:
Definitely the best (and most personal) part of the series. Hoang, being on the autism spectrum herself, knows how to present characters with ASD realistically. The ethnicity of the characters also stands out among the genre.

I appreciated the topic of caring for dying loved ones and a bit about the right to euthanasia - it's great that these topics appeared and were presented so wisely.

I felt the reality of the experiences, and it was nice to meet the characters from the previous parts.

And Quan... It's wonderful that one can still meet the hero of a romance that has something original, that can evoke that feeling for which we read romanses.
]]>
<![CDATA[American Prometheus: The Triumph and Tragedy of J. Robert Oppenheimer]]> 80571
J. Robert Oppenheimer is one of the iconic figures of the twentieth century, a brilliant physicist who led the effort to build the atomic bomb for his country in a time of war and who later found himself confronting the moral consequences of scientific progress.

When he proposed international controls over atomic materials, opposed the development of the hydrogen bomb, and criticized plans for a nuclear war, his ideas were anathema to powerful advocates of a massive nuclear buildup during the anti-Communist hysteria of the early 1950s. They declared that Oppenheimer could not be trusted with America’s nuclear secrets.

In this magisterial biography twenty-five years in the making, which won the 2006 Pulitzer Prize for biography, the authors capture Oppenheimer’s life and times, from his early career to his central role in the Cold War.]]>
721 Kai Bird Mela 0 to-read, zzz-local-library 4.26 2005 American Prometheus: The Triumph and Tragedy of J. Robert Oppenheimer
author: Kai Bird
name: Mela
average rating: 4.26
book published: 2005
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/07/07
shelves: to-read, zzz-local-library
review:

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Lois the Witch 383204 94 Elizabeth Gaskell 1843910497 Mela 0 3.68 1861 Lois the Witch
author: Elizabeth Gaskell
name: Mela
average rating: 3.68
book published: 1861
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/07/05
shelves: to-read, zzz-to-read-groups, zzz-local-library, group-catching-up-on-classics
review:

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The Vet's Daughter 10303768 The Vet's Daughter combines shocking realism with a visionary edge. The vet lives with his bedridden wife and shy daughter Alice in a sinister London suburb. He works constantly, captive to a strange private fury, and treats his family with brutality and contempt. After his wife's death, the vet takes up with a crass, needling woman who tries to refashion Alice in her own image. And yet as Alice retreats ever deeper into a dream world, she discovers an extraordinary secret power of her own.

Harrowing and haunting, like an unexpected cross between Flannery O'Connor and Stephen King, The Vet's Daughter is a story of outraged innocence that culminates in a scene of appalling triumph.]]>
190 Barbara Comyns Mela 0 4.09 1959 The Vet's Daughter
author: Barbara Comyns
name: Mela
average rating: 4.09
book published: 1959
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/07/05
shelves: to-read, group-virago-modern-classic, internet-archive, zzz-to-read-groups
review:

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<![CDATA[No Fond Return Of Love (Virago Modern Classics)]]> 5989099 288 Barbara Pym 1844084507 Mela 0
I don't know why I couldn't get involved. When I think of the characters, they sound charming, a great bunch for a witty story. It looks like I have an odd relation with Pym's novels. It is the third book I didn't finish, yet three others I really enjoyed. Perhaps it was a matter of mood/time.]]>
3.90 1961 No Fond Return Of Love (Virago Modern Classics)
author: Barbara Pym
name: Mela
average rating: 3.90
book published: 1961
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/07/05
shelves: group-virago-modern-classic, did-not-finish, perhaps-to-try-again
review:
I have decided to put it down. I struggled too long with interest. I reached the one-third part of the book, and I was still tempted to skip and skim sentences and paragraphs. Because Pym's novels are to savour, not just to learn the plot, it would have been unfair to skip parts.

I don't know why I couldn't get involved. When I think of the characters, they sound charming, a great bunch for a witty story. It looks like I have an odd relation with Pym's novels. It is the third book I didn't finish, yet three others I really enjoyed. Perhaps it was a matter of mood/time.
]]>
<![CDATA[Strong Poison (Lord Peter Wimsey, #6)]]> 246225 240 Dorothy L. Sayers 0060809086 Mela 0 4.13 1930 Strong Poison (Lord Peter Wimsey, #6)
author: Dorothy L. Sayers
name: Mela
average rating: 4.13
book published: 1930
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/07/04
shelves: to-read, group-women-s-classic-enthusiasts, zzz-to-read-groups, searching-a-copy
review:

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Klara and the Sun 54120408
In Klara and the Sun, Kazuo Ishiguro looks at our rapidly changing modern world through the eyes of an unforgettable narrator to explore a fundamental question: what does it mean to love?]]>
303 Kazuo Ishiguro 059331817X Mela 5
The vision of the future had its gaps, but Klara’s character, the questions raised, and the perspectives presented were invaluable—and ultimately, they touched my heart.]]>
3.71 2021 Klara and the Sun
author: Kazuo Ishiguro
name: Mela
average rating: 3.71
book published: 2021
rating: 5
read at: 2025/07/03
date added: 2025/07/03
shelves: psychological-and-philosophical, 2000-today, 2000-today-romance, greatly-impressing, science-fiction, region-usa, zzz-local-library, read-only-in-polish
review:
An incredibly well-thought-out novel. Even the style and pacing matched the voice of the AI—measured, consistent, calm, and at the same time “flawed” in a way that made it suitable to be a teenager’s friend and companion. Klara’s reasoning and attitude remained coherent all the way to the very end. No tempting twists (so common in stories of this kind).

The vision of the future had its gaps, but Klara’s character, the questions raised, and the perspectives presented were invaluable—and ultimately, they touched my heart.
]]>
Amy & Roger's Epic Detour 7664334 When you're on a road trip, life is all about the detours. . . .

Amy Curry is having a terrible year. Her mother has decided to move across the country and needs Amy to get their car from California to Connecticut. There's just one small problem: Since her father died this past spring, Amy hasn't been able to get behind the wheel. Enter Roger, the nineteen-year-old son of an old family friend, who turns out to be unexpectedly cute ... and dealing with some baggage of his own.

Meeting new people and coming to terms with her father's death were not what Amy had planned on this trip. And traveling the Loneliest Road in America, seeing the Colorado mountains, crossing the Kansas plains, and visiting diners, dingy motels, and Graceland were definitely not on the itinerary. But as they drive, Amy finds that the people you least expected are the ones you may need the most—and that sometimes you have to get lost in order to find your way home.]]>
343 Morgan Matson 1416990658 Mela 3
I think I will come back to the author.]]>
3.97 2010 Amy & Roger's Epic Detour
author: Morgan Matson
name: Mela
average rating: 3.97
book published: 2010
rating: 3
read at: 2025/07/01
date added: 2025/07/01
shelves: 2000-today-romance, region-usa, young-and-new-adult
review:
A well-written young novel. For those who like road literature or those interested in this side of the USA, this will be interesting reading. I was rather bored with these parts. I mostly skipped them. I was interested in the story of Amy (her mourning) and how the author wove into it a story about youthful love. I appreciated the ending - open, with a suggestion.

I think I will come back to the author.
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A Garden Folly 11544386 237 Candice Hern 0983866538 Mela 3 3.92 1997 A Garden Folly
author: Candice Hern
name: Mela
average rating: 3.92
book published: 1997
rating: 3
read at: 2025/06/29
date added: 2025/06/29
shelves: historical-period-long-19th-century, historical-romance, region-british, series
review:
I have read it very quickly. In addition, almost without unnecessary musings, although maybe there was a little too much about the flowers, and a bit too many repetitions of the characters' thoughts. But generally pleasant reading. In the spirit of Chesney more than of Heyer.
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The Red and the Black 14662 The Red and the Black is a lively, satirical portrayal of French society after Waterloo, riddled with corruption, greed, and ennui, and Julien - the cold exploiter whose Machiavellian campaign is undercut by his own emotions - is one of the most intriguing characters in European literature.

Roger Gard's fine translation remains faithful to the natural, conversational tone of the original, while his introduction elucidates the complexities of Julien's character. This edition also contains a chronology, further reading and an appendix on Stendhal's use of epigraphs.]]>
577 Stendhal 0140447644 Mela 4
[3-3.5 stars]]]>
3.91 1830 The Red and the Black
author: Stendhal
name: Mela
average rating: 3.91
book published: 1830
rating: 4
read at: 2025/06/27
date added: 2025/06/27
shelves: psychological-and-philosophical, historical-fiction, historical-romance, public-domain, region-france, historical-period-long-19th-century, group-guardian-1000-novels, group-catching-up-on-classics, audio-book, read-only-in-polish, re-read
review:
The novel probably says a lot about the times and "dark" sides of the social system. I understand why it is included in the classical French literature. And it was a good read. Nevertheless, the narrative did not grip me as much as other classics. I prefer the style of Balzac or Dickens (or Austen).

[3-3.5 stars]
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A Clockwork Orange 41817486 A Clockwork Orange is a frightening fable about good and evil and the meaning of human freedom. This edition includes the controversial last chapter not published in the first edition, and Burgess’s introduction, “A Clockwork Orange Resucked.”]]> 240 Anthony Burgess 0393341763 Mela 0
----

In 2025, I wanted to know this classic, but the level of idioms, its own language created in the novel, was too tiring, requiring thinking, checking in the posted dictionary.]]>
4.04 1962 A Clockwork Orange
author: Anthony Burgess
name: Mela
average rating: 4.04
book published: 1962
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/06/27
shelves: watched-not-read, group-guardian-1000-novels
review:
I was too little to watch it, I was mostly shocked. Definitely mind-blowing.

----

In 2025, I wanted to know this classic, but the level of idioms, its own language created in the novel, was too tiring, requiring thinking, checking in the posted dictionary.
]]>
<![CDATA[Seducing a Stranger (Goode Girls #1)]]> 56599752 Alternate cover edition of ASIN B08JQQMTKK

This Knight of the Crown is driven by a painful past and a patient fury… and his entire life is a lie.

Sir Carlton Morley is famously possessed of extraordinary will, singular focus, and a merciless sense of justice. As a man, he secured his fortune and his preeminence as Scotland Yard’s ruthless Chief Inspector. As a decorated soldier, he was legend for his unflinching trigger finger, his precision in battle, and his imperturbable strength. But as a boy, he was someone else. A twin, a thief, and a murderer, until tragedy reshaped him.

Now he stalks the night, in search of redemption and retribution, vowing to never give into temptation, as it’s just another form of weakness.

Until temptation lands—quite literally—in his lap, taking the form of Prudence Goode.

Prim and proper Pru is expected to live a life of drudgery, but before she succumbs to her fate, she craves just one night of desire. On the night she searches for it, she stumbles upon a man made of shadows, muscle and wrath… And decides he is the one.

When their firestorm of passion burns out of control, Morley discovers, too late, that he was right. The tempting woman has become his weakness.

A weakness his enemies can use against him.


Please Note: This book was originally published as A Dark and Stormy Knight]]>
294 Kerrigan Byrne Mela 0 did-not-finish 4.15 2020 Seducing a Stranger (Goode Girls #1)
author: Kerrigan Byrne
name: Mela
average rating: 4.15
book published: 2020
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/06/27
shelves: did-not-finish
review:
It was supposed to be a historical romance, but either my tolerance changed or there was a lack of something that could have balanced "absurdities", that is, too little historical adequacy, constant repetitions, and writing only about the same, and without a wit that often saves such novels.
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<![CDATA[Under a Dark Moon (Brandon Brothers, #2)]]> 57072920 Victim of a cruel deception, Camilla Edgerton-Foxe has a jaundiced view of the male sex and a tongue as sharp as her wits … but she also possesses an extraordinary talent.
A peculiar encounter offers Adam the kind of employment for which he is uniquely suited and which will exercise his mind as well as his muscles. The fly in the ointment is that Miss Edgerton-Foxe comes with it … as does Rainham, viscount and master of disguise, with a frequently misplaced sense of humour.
From Paris, via London, to the mists and mysteries of Romney Marsh, these three are sent on the trail of something darker and infinitely more dangerous than the kegs of brandy that come ashore at the dark of the moon.]]>
452 Stella Riley Mela 3
I read it smoothly, quickly, and I was not tempted to skim or skip paragraphs. Nevertheless, I cannot say that I was particularly interested in the intrigue or the love story. It is a pity, because the idea and characters were interesting and witty.

This book was better than the first part of the series, but I am disappointed again, because I expected more pleasure from the author.

[3-3.5 stars]]]>
4.31 2021 Under a Dark Moon (Brandon Brothers, #2)
author: Stella Riley
name: Mela
average rating: 4.31
book published: 2021
rating: 3
read at: 2025/06/27
date added: 2025/06/27
shelves: historical-period-long-19th-century, historical-romance, mystery-adventure, region-british, series
review:
Mrs. Riley knows the historical background of her novels. She generally sticks to the realities. Although this time the degree of alleged trust in the discretion of the domestic servants was rather exaggerated. After all, they also came from families living to some extent from smuggling. The dialogues and some behaviors were a bit too modern, but I can accept this.

I read it smoothly, quickly, and I was not tempted to skim or skip paragraphs. Nevertheless, I cannot say that I was particularly interested in the intrigue or the love story. It is a pity, because the idea and characters were interesting and witty.

This book was better than the first part of the series, but I am disappointed again, because I expected more pleasure from the author.

[3-3.5 stars]
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Between Us 62397519 International bestseller Mhairi McFarlane delivers a witty, clever, emotional new novel about a woman whose life unravels spectacularly after her screenwriter boyfriend uses their relationship as inspiration for his new television show.

When Roisin and Joe join their friends for a weekend at a country house, it's a triple celebration--a birthday, an engagement, and the launch of Joe's shiny new TV show. But as the weekend unfolds, tensions come to light in the group and Roisin begins to question her own relationship. And as they watch the first episode of Joe's drama, she realizes that the private things she told him--which should have stayed between them--are right there on the screen.

With her friend group in chaos and her messy love life on display for the whole world to see, Roisin returns home to avoid the unwanted attention and help run her family's pub. But drama still follows, in the form of her dysfunctional family and the looming question: what other parts of her now-ex's show are inspired by real events? Lies? Infidelity? Every week, as a new episode airs, she wonders what other secrets will be revealed.

Yet the most unexpected twist of all is an old friend, who is suddenly there for Roisin in ways she never knew she needed...]]>
448 Mhairi McFarlane 0008412499 Mela 4
Although not much happened for most of the part, I was interested in the character's development. The romance was rather in the second place, but when I think of it, I am satisfied and happy.]]>
3.73 2023 Between Us
author: Mhairi McFarlane
name: Mela
average rating: 3.73
book published: 2023
rating: 4
read at: 2025/06/24
date added: 2025/06/24
shelves: 2000-today-romance, 2000-today, region-british
review:
Mhairi McFarlane is one of my favourite authors. Again, she created an interesting group of characters that were real and behaved normally, not melodramatically (for the sake of the story).

Although not much happened for most of the part, I was interested in the character's development. The romance was rather in the second place, but when I think of it, I am satisfied and happy.
]]>
Swept Away 215805795 Two strangers find themselves stranded at sea together in this epic new love story by bestselling author Beth O’Leary.

What if you were lost at sea…with your one-night stand?

Zeke and Lexi thought it would just be a night of fun. They had no intentions of seeing each other again. Zeke is only in town for the weekend to buy back his late father’s houseboat. Lexi has no time for dating when she needs to help take care of her best friend's daughter.

Going back home with a stranger seems like a perfect escape from their problems. But a miscommunication in the dark, foggy night means no one tied the houseboat to the dock. The next morning, Zeke and Lexi realize all they can see is miles and miles of water.

With just a few provisions on the idle boat, Zeke and Lexi must figure out how to get back home. But aside from their survival, they’re facing another challenge. Because when you’re stuck together for days on end, it gives you a lot of time to get to know someone—and to fall in love with them.]]>
372 Beth O'Leary 0593640144 Mela 0 to-read, searching-a-copy 3.57 2025 Swept Away
author: Beth O'Leary
name: Mela
average rating: 3.57
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/06/24
shelves: to-read, searching-a-copy
review:

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Brüderchen und Schwesterchen 2180646 Bernadette Watts 3937054456 Mela 4
This one was (to me), again, about growing up. When Little Sister begged Little Brother not to drink from the springs it was like she would have begged him not to grow up (although she must know that she can't stop it, he would have died from thirst). And then, when she didn't want to let him go into the forest, it was like she wanted to protect him from the youth's follies.

[This time, I have been reading simultaneously listening to .]]]>
3.73 1857 Brüderchen und Schwesterchen
author: Bernadette Watts
name: Mela
average rating: 3.73
book published: 1857
rating: 4
read at: 2020/08/18
date added: 2025/06/24
shelves: audio-book, childrens, fairy-tales, region-germany, public-domain, read-in-german
review:
There is deep wisdom in Grimms' stories. They used (mostly) traditional folk tales. Those tales carry hundreds of years of human knowledge about us. Perhaps, there is nothing new to modern people, but still, I was fascinated.

This one was (to me), again, about growing up. When Little Sister begged Little Brother not to drink from the springs it was like she would have begged him not to grow up (although she must know that she can't stop it, he would have died from thirst). And then, when she didn't want to let him go into the forest, it was like she wanted to protect him from the youth's follies.

[This time, I have been reading simultaneously listening to .]
]]>
The Diviners 2553080 The Diviners is an epic novel.

This is the powerful story of an independent woman who refuses to abandon her search for love. For Morag Gunn, growing up in a small Canadian prairie town is a toughening process – putting distance between herself and a world that wanted no part of her. But in time, the aloneness that had once been forced upon her becomes a precious right – relinquished only in her overwhelming need for love. Again and again, Morag is forced to test her strength against the world – and finally achieves the life she had determined would be hers.

The Diviners has been acclaimed by many critics as the outstanding achievement of Margaret Laurence’s writing career. In Morag Gunn, Laurence has created a figure whose experience emerges as that of all dispossessed people in search of their birthright, and one who survives as an inspirational symbol of courage and endurance.

The Diviners received the Governor General’s Award for Fiction for 1974.]]>
406 Margaret Laurence 0860688186 Mela 0 3.79 1974 The Diviners
author: Margaret Laurence
name: Mela
average rating: 3.79
book published: 1974
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/06/22
shelves: to-read, internet-archive, group-virago-modern-classic, zzz-to-read-groups
review:

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Man's Search for Meaning 4069 Man's Search for Meaning has become one of the most influential books in America; it continues to inspire us all to find significance in the very act of living.]]> 165 Viktor E. Frankl 080701429X Mela 0 4.38 1946 Man's Search for Meaning
author: Viktor E. Frankl
name: Mela
average rating: 4.38
book published: 1946
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/06/22
shelves: to-read, external-recommendations, zzz-legimi, zzz-local-library
review:

]]>
Oliver VII 1975169 176 Antal Szerb 1901285901 Mela 0 to-read, internet-archive 3.99 1943 Oliver VII
author: Antal Szerb
name: Mela
average rating: 3.99
book published: 1943
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/06/22
shelves: to-read, internet-archive
review:

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The Queen's Necklace 6611979 308 Antal Szerb 1906548080 Mela 0 to-read, internet-archive 3.87 1943 The Queen's Necklace
author: Antal Szerb
name: Mela
average rating: 3.87
book published: 1943
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/06/22
shelves: to-read, internet-archive
review:

]]>
<![CDATA[The Boy Who Was Raised as a Dog: And Other Stories from a Child Psychiatrist's Notebook]]> 129909 The Boy Who Was Raised as a Dog, he tells their stories of trauma and transformation through the lens of science, revealing the brain's astonishing capacity for healing. Deftly combining unforgettable case histories with his own compassionate, insightful strategies for rehabilitation, Perry explains what exactly happens to the brain when a child is exposed to extreme stress-and reveals the unexpected measures that can be taken to ease a child's pain and help him grow into a healthy adult. Through the stories of children who recover-physically, mentally, and emotionally-from the most devastating circumstances, Perry shows how simple things like surroundings, affection, language, and touch can deeply impact the developing brain, for better or for worse. In this deeply informed and moving book, Bruce Perry dramatically demonstrates that only when we understand the science of the mind can we hope to heal the spirit of even the most wounded child.]]> 288 Bruce D. Perry 0465056520 Mela 4 One of the books that changed my perception and understanding of certain elements of human development.

Nevertheless, although it is a book worth reading by everyone, it would have been better if it had been edited more. I had the impression of a wooden, unpolished narrative sometimes.

[4-4.5 stars]]]>
4.59 2007 The Boy Who Was Raised as a Dog: And Other Stories from a Child Psychiatrist's Notebook
author: Bruce D. Perry
name: Mela
average rating: 4.59
book published: 2007
rating: 4
read at: 2025/06/21
date added: 2025/06/21
shelves: zzz-local-library, read-only-in-polish, psychological-and-philosophical, 2000-today, 1945-1990s, non-fiction, region-usa
review:
The book consists of fascinating insights into the human brain, psyche, development, and trauma. The real stories of children presented were terrible, but thanks to them (at least), we learned so much.
One of the books that changed my perception and understanding of certain elements of human development.

Nevertheless, although it is a book worth reading by everyone, it would have been better if it had been edited more. I had the impression of a wooden, unpolished narrative sometimes.

[4-4.5 stars]
]]>
The Doll (CEU Press Classics) 538871 doll, Izabela. Embattled aristocrats, the new men of finance, Dickensian tradesmen, and the urban poor all come vividly to life on the vast, superbly detailed canvas against which Wokulski’s personal tragedy is played out.

Unlike his Western European counterparts, Prus had to work under official censorship. In this edition, most of the smaller cuts made by the Tsarist censor have been restored, and one longer fragment is included as an appendix.
]]>
702 Bolesław Prus 1858660653 Mela 5
Many levels, many points of views.

An amazing study of society and a deep study of human nature.

This book made me think why (during reading it) I was constantly expecting that Izabela would have fallen in love with Wokulski. Why was I expecting that only because a man loves deeply a woman she must (sooner or later) fells in love too? Truly, it is ridiculous. But so it was (sometimes still is) my blind, romantic vision...]]>
3.89 1890 The Doll (CEU Press Classics)
author: Bolesław Prus
name: Mela
average rating: 3.89
book published: 1890
rating: 5
read at:
date added: 2025/06/20
shelves: historical-fiction, historical-romance, region-poland, historical-fiction-to-learn-history, psychological-and-philosophical, public-domain, historical-period-long-19th-century, currently-reading, audio-book, re-read
review:
One of the best novels written by Polish writers ever. Really, if you are considering which book by Polish writers to read you should choose this one. It isn't a pleasant story. It is one of those that helps one to better understand people and changes in society. One of those that it is really hard to forget.

Many levels, many points of views.

An amazing study of society and a deep study of human nature.

This book made me think why (during reading it) I was constantly expecting that Izabela would have fallen in love with Wokulski. Why was I expecting that only because a man loves deeply a woman she must (sooner or later) fells in love too? Truly, it is ridiculous. But so it was (sometimes still is) my blind, romantic vision...
]]>
<![CDATA[Lords and Ladies (Discworld, #14)]]> 11295643 Librarian note: This a previously-published edition of ASIN B00354YA2C.

The fairies are back – but this time they don’t just want your teeth…

It's Midsummer Night – no time for dreaming. Because sometimes, when there's more than one reality at play, too much dreaming can make the walls between them come tumbling down.

Unfortunately there's usually a damned good reason for there being walls between them in the first place – to keep things out. Things who want to make mischief and play havoc with the natural order.

Granny Weatherwax and her tiny coven of witches are up against real elves. And they’re spectacularly nasty creatures. Even in a world of dwarves, wizards, trolls, Morris dancers – and the odd orang-utan – this is going to cause trouble…]]>
337 Terry Pratchett Mela 5
[4.5 stars]]]>
4.48 1992 Lords and Ladies (Discworld, #14)
author: Terry Pratchett
name: Mela
average rating: 4.48
book published: 1992
rating: 5
read at: 2025/06/20
date added: 2025/06/20
shelves: audio-book, read-only-in-polish, psychological-and-philosophical, fantasy, humor, mystery-adventure, region-british, series
review:
I love the series and I adore Nanny Ogg, Magrat Garlick and Granny Weatherwax (not to mention other characters). In other words, another book that gave me a wonderful time and a few wise thoughts.

[4.5 stars]
]]>
<![CDATA[The Shadow of the Wind (The Cemetery of Forgotten Books, #1)]]> 1232 487 Carlos Ruiz Zafón Mela 5
As an example of how well written this book was, can be the fact that although it contained two elements that are not my favorites: a jagged chronology, and that the main plot was a detective-thriller, and yet it completely drew me in.

The most valuable were the philosophical-psychological and satirical-ironic moments. They appeared only for a moment here and there, but such a breakdown of the plot was needed.

In addition, the historical background was interesting.

[4.5 stars]]]>
4.26 2001 The Shadow of the Wind (The Cemetery of Forgotten Books, #1)
author: Carlos Ruiz Zafón
name: Mela
average rating: 4.26
book published: 2001
rating: 5
read at: 2025/06/18
date added: 2025/06/18
shelves: group-catching-up-on-classics, zzz-local-library, 1945-1990s, 1945-1990s-romance, historical-fiction, historical-period-1914-1945, historical-romance, mystery-adventure, region-spain, authors-to-explore
review:
An absorbing, brilliantly written novel. Serious, but interwoven with wit. I really liked the author's style. I'll definitely read more by him someday.

As an example of how well written this book was, can be the fact that although it contained two elements that are not my favorites: a jagged chronology, and that the main plot was a detective-thriller, and yet it completely drew me in.

The most valuable were the philosophical-psychological and satirical-ironic moments. They appeared only for a moment here and there, but such a breakdown of the plot was needed.

In addition, the historical background was interesting.

[4.5 stars]
]]>
Cover Story 223338873
Thirty-something Connor is going to back to the start as the new intern.

The latest office news? They can’t stand each other.

So of course Bel bumps into Connor when she’s working undercover on the biggest scoop of her career. And of course she’s forced to improvise, pretending they’re a couple. A couple deeply in love.

Two rivals. One fake romance. The headline writes itself…

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐A five-star read!⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

'This book is an absolute joy from start to finish. The chemistry between Bel and Connor is electric, and it’s impossible not to get sucked into their witty back-and-forth'⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

'Mhairi McFarlane has done it again. At this point I think I'd even love reading her shopping lists' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

'Cover Story is another winner'⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

'The characters are so well written and true to life… a joy to read'⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

'Funny and gripping and, crucially, emotionally convincing. McFarlane's characters always feel like real people and this book is no exception'⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

'Dry humour, top friendships and a romantic story … loved it'⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐]]>
384 Mhairi McFarlane 0063292572 Mela 0 to-read, searching-a-copy 3.78 2025 Cover Story
author: Mhairi McFarlane
name: Mela
average rating: 3.78
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/06/17
shelves: to-read, searching-a-copy
review:

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Arabella 311150
On her way to London Arabella's carriage breaks down outside the hunting lodge of the wealthy and socially prominent Robert Beaumaris, fate cast her in his path. Arabella's only fault is impetuosity, and her pride stung when she overhears a remark of her path of arrogant host, who accused her of being another petty female after his wealth, the proud, headstrong ingenue made a most startling claim -- she was an heiress! A pretense that deeply amuses the jaded Beau. To counter her white lie, Beaumaris launches her into high society and thereby subjects her to all kinds of amorous fortune hunters in London and other embarrassments.

Suddenly Arabella found herself the talk of the ton and pursued by some of the most eligible young men of the day. But only one caught Arabella's fancy: Beaumaris, the handsome and dedicated bachelor. She should know better than to allow herself to be provoked by nonpareil Beau. But would her deceitful charade destroy her one chance for true love...?

Beaumaris, however, although a most artful matrimonial dodger, badly underestimated his seemingly naive adversary... When compassionate Arabella rescues such unfortunate creatures as a mistreated chimney sweep and a mixed-breed mongrel, she foists them upon Beaumaris, who finds he rather enjoys the role of rescuer and is soon given the opportunity to prove his worth in the person of Bertram Tallant, the also impetuous young brother of Arabella....]]>
280 Georgette Heyer 0099465620 Mela 5
---- My review after the second read: ----

First of all, I think it is the best GH novel (or one of the best) to start an adventure with her books. There were all characteristics:

--> the wit
--> splendid dialogues
--> delicious language (probably incorrect expression but it is how I always feel with GH)
--> thought through characters (it was one of the strongest features of GH stories, she first created characters, then the stories - it is why her books are so brilliant)
--> interesting historical background (some very interesting facts from those times)
--> and questions about more serious issues that often during first reading one doesn't see because one is so strongly gripped by other things.

Why it is a recommended first GH novel to read is a bit hard to explain. I would say it was a lighter version of GH, a bit shorter, but still at her best, purely classic Heyer.

Some specifics I liked the most:

--> the family atmosphere - I only regret that there weren't more scenes like those that were at the beginning

--> how Heyer captured the relationship between highly good and moral father and his children that were also good and wanted to behave so but they also felt overwhelming desire to rebel a little; it was really splendidly captured

--> how she showed the other London - dirty, poor, and often forgotten, she did it without drama (so the reader wasn't wake up from the general atmosphere of the story) but in a way that didn't allow pretend that the other side of London didn't exist or that it wasn't so bad (it was much worse)

--> that she described (through Bertram's story) how some of the young privilege men lived in London and how some of them ended up.

My general outline/summarize:

* Arabella Tallant (17/18) - beautiful, a bit silly/temperamental sometimes but with a big heart
* Robert Beaumaris (30) - handsome, sensible, intelligent, calm, and let's face it - he could be cruel if he wanted, he played with Arabella's lot, he could have ruined her chances if he didn't fell in love with her eventually

--> It was first of all a romance (although the love scenes weren't as great as Heyer was capable to write).
--> The first meeting of the main characters was memorable.
--> Words that I will associate with this novel: 'heiress' and 'Ulysses'.
--> Some other characters (besides two main) really well written: Bertram, Mr Tallant, Lady and Lord Bridlington.

One of the funniest dialogues (although probably a bit rude, politically incorrect):

'Have you any brothers?' demanded Mr Beaumaris.
'No,' said Mr Scounthorpe, blinking at him. 'Only child.'
'You relieve my mind. Offer my congratulations to your parents!'
Mr Scunthorpe thought this over, with knit brow, but could make nothing of it. He put Mr Beaumaris right on one point. 'Only one parent,' he said. 'Father died three months after I was born.'
'Very understandable,' said Mr Beaumaris. 'I am astonished the he lingered on for so long....

[By the way, it was my third GH book that I re-read and I fear that all her novels end up with 5-stars on my shelf. I wanted to stay with 4 stars but I simply can't. The longer I think about 'Arabella' the stronger I feel it deserve 5 stars]]]>
4.04 1949 Arabella
author: Georgette Heyer
name: Mela
average rating: 4.04
book published: 1949
rating: 5
read at: 2025/06/16
date added: 2025/06/16
shelves: historical-romance, humor, region-british, re-read, historical-period-long-19th-century, audio-book
review:
I have been listening to an audiobook read by Gemma Whelan this time. She did it well; her voice and interpretation were very Heyer-ish.

---- My review after the second read: ----

First of all, I think it is the best GH novel (or one of the best) to start an adventure with her books. There were all characteristics:

--> the wit
--> splendid dialogues
--> delicious language (probably incorrect expression but it is how I always feel with GH)
--> thought through characters (it was one of the strongest features of GH stories, she first created characters, then the stories - it is why her books are so brilliant)
--> interesting historical background (some very interesting facts from those times)
--> and questions about more serious issues that often during first reading one doesn't see because one is so strongly gripped by other things.

Why it is a recommended first GH novel to read is a bit hard to explain. I would say it was a lighter version of GH, a bit shorter, but still at her best, purely classic Heyer.

Some specifics I liked the most:

--> the family atmosphere - I only regret that there weren't more scenes like those that were at the beginning

--> how Heyer captured the relationship between highly good and moral father and his children that were also good and wanted to behave so but they also felt overwhelming desire to rebel a little; it was really splendidly captured

--> how she showed the other London - dirty, poor, and often forgotten, she did it without drama (so the reader wasn't wake up from the general atmosphere of the story) but in a way that didn't allow pretend that the other side of London didn't exist or that it wasn't so bad (it was much worse)

--> that she described (through Bertram's story) how some of the young privilege men lived in London and how some of them ended up.

My general outline/summarize:

* Arabella Tallant (17/18) - beautiful, a bit silly/temperamental sometimes but with a big heart
* Robert Beaumaris (30) - handsome, sensible, intelligent, calm, and let's face it - he could be cruel if he wanted, he played with Arabella's lot, he could have ruined her chances if he didn't fell in love with her eventually

--> It was first of all a romance (although the love scenes weren't as great as Heyer was capable to write).
--> The first meeting of the main characters was memorable.
--> Words that I will associate with this novel: 'heiress' and 'Ulysses'.
--> Some other characters (besides two main) really well written: Bertram, Mr Tallant, Lady and Lord Bridlington.

One of the funniest dialogues (although probably a bit rude, politically incorrect):

'Have you any brothers?' demanded Mr Beaumaris.
'No,' said Mr Scounthorpe, blinking at him. 'Only child.'
'You relieve my mind. Offer my congratulations to your parents!'
Mr Scunthorpe thought this over, with knit brow, but could make nothing of it. He put Mr Beaumaris right on one point. 'Only one parent,' he said. 'Father died three months after I was born.'
'Very understandable,' said Mr Beaumaris. 'I am astonished the he lingered on for so long....

[By the way, it was my third GH book that I re-read and I fear that all her novels end up with 5-stars on my shelf. I wanted to stay with 4 stars but I simply can't. The longer I think about 'Arabella' the stronger I feel it deserve 5 stars]
]]>
House of Sand and Fog 38311414 Boston Globe), a recovering alcoholic and addict down on her luck struggles to hold on to her home in California. But this becomes contested territory when a recent immigrant from the Middle East—a former colonel in the Iranian Air Force—becomes determined to restore his family’s dignity through buying the house. When the woman’s lover, a married cop, intervenes, he goes to extremes to win her love. Andre Dubus III’s unforgettable characters—people with ordinary flaws, looking for a small piece of ground to stand on—careen toward inevitable conflict. An “affecting, subtle portrait of two hostile but equally fragile camps” (The New Yorker), their tragedy paints a shockingly true picture of the country we still live in today, two decades after this book’s first publication.]]> 384 Andre Dubus III 0393356345 Mela 0 to-read, internet-archive 3.97 1999 House of Sand and Fog
author: Andre Dubus III
name: Mela
average rating: 3.97
book published: 1999
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/06/16
shelves: to-read, internet-archive
review:

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The Englishman's Boy 408032 Winner of the Governor General's Award

Counterpointing the stories of the legendary Western cowboy Shorty McAdoo and Harry Vincent, the ambitious young screenwriter commissioned to retell his story in 1920s Hollywood, this novel reconstructs an epic journey through Montana into the Canadian plains, by a group of men pursuing their stolen horses.

The Englishman's Boy intelligently and creatively depicts an American West where greed and deception are tempered by honor and strength. As Richard Ford has noted, "Vanderhaeghe is simply a wonderful writer. The Englishman's Boy, spanning as it does two countries, two centuries, two views of historythe Canadian Wild West as 'imagined' by Hollywoodis a great accomplishment. Readers, I think, will find this book irresistible."
]]>
352 Guy Vanderhaeghe 0312195443 Mela 0 to-read, internet-archive 3.82 1996 The Englishman's Boy
author: Guy Vanderhaeghe
name: Mela
average rating: 3.82
book published: 1996
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/06/16
shelves: to-read, internet-archive
review:

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The Promise 59887 224 Danielle Steel 0751505544 Mela 1
An incredible situation (facial reconstruction) and melodrama surrounded by boring scenes. Actually, I didn't read most of the pages, I just skimmed them - and I'm sure I didn't lose anything of the story.]]>
3.98 1977 The Promise
author: Danielle Steel
name: Mela
average rating: 3.98
book published: 1977
rating: 1
read at: 2025/06/13
date added: 2025/06/13
shelves: read-only-in-polish, zzz-local-library, 1945-1990s-romance, region-usa
review:
I wanted to face the "Queen" Steel, whom I remember was popular when I was a child. Maybe I chose the wrong book, but WOW. It was as bad as I could expect from an "awful romance".

An incredible situation (facial reconstruction) and melodrama surrounded by boring scenes. Actually, I didn't read most of the pages, I just skimmed them - and I'm sure I didn't lose anything of the story.
]]>
Gone to Earth 42406000
But Hazel is a beautiful young woman, and this beauty raws her relentlessly into the orbit of human life. Her innocence is an irresistible magnet to men - to Jack Reddin the local squire and to the gentle minister Edward Marston, who offer her human love, human sexuality. Hazel's fate unfolds as simply and relentlessly as a Greek tragedy as this child of nature is drawn into a world of mortal passion in which she must eternally be a stranger...

Mary Webb published this, her second work of fiction, in 1917. Like her famous novel Precious Bane, it is both an engrossing love story and a literary classic of rare and poetic beauty.]]>
288 Mary Webb Mela 2
The idea may have been good, but I didn't like the realization much. The confrontation of nature with civilization was bad, stereotypical, and naive.]]>
3.36 1917 Gone to Earth
author: Mary Webb
name: Mela
average rating: 3.36
book published: 1917
rating: 2
read at: 2025/06/12
date added: 2025/06/12
shelves: audio-book, group-virago-modern-classic, public-domain, historical-period-long-19th-century, historical-romance, region-british
review:
I was tired, especially at the beginning. I do not know how much it was the fault of the lector's interpretation, her voice of the main character, from which she didn't make a person naive or innocent, but more like stupid and annoying.

The idea may have been good, but I didn't like the realization much. The confrontation of nature with civilization was bad, stereotypical, and naive.
]]>
Commonwealth 28214365
Spanning five decades, Commonwealth explores how this chance encounter reverberates through the lives of the four parents and six children involved. Spending summers together in Virginia, the Keating and Cousins children forge a lasting bond that is based on a shared disillusionment with their parents and the strange and genuine affection that grows up between them.

When, in her twenties, Franny begins an affair with the legendary author Leon Posen and tells him about her family, the story of her siblings is no longer hers to control. Their childhood becomes the basis for his wildly successful book, ultimately forcing them to come to terms with their losses, their guilt, and the deeply loyal connection they feel for one another.

Told with equal measures of humor and heartbreak, Commonwealth is a meditation on inspiration, interpretation, and the ownership of stories. It is a brilliant and tender tale of the far-reaching ties of love and responsibility that bind us together.]]>
322 Ann Patchett 0062491792 Mela 3
The narrative, the style of Patchett, created a story, which is a good read, which tells us something, e.g. about loyalty, a family ties, about the search for one's own path and own place. It was also about the links between the author of the novel, his/her life, the author's right to the story, when it is his/her story or another person's story.

This is an example of a novel that one enjoys while reading, even though one forgets the plot quickly. But the impressions of a good book remain.

[3-3.5 stars]]]>
3.81 2016 Commonwealth
author: Ann Patchett
name: Mela
average rating: 3.81
book published: 2016
rating: 3
read at: 2025/06/11
date added: 2025/06/11
shelves: zzz-local-library, 1945-1990s, 1945-1990s-romance, 2000-today, 2000-today-romance, region-usa, read-only-in-polish
review:
The plot (when to organize it chronologically) is simply a story about the American Patchwork family. Happiness, love here and there. Interlaced with sorrows and tragedy. In other words, an ordinary life.

The narrative, the style of Patchett, created a story, which is a good read, which tells us something, e.g. about loyalty, a family ties, about the search for one's own path and own place. It was also about the links between the author of the novel, his/her life, the author's right to the story, when it is his/her story or another person's story.

This is an example of a novel that one enjoys while reading, even though one forgets the plot quickly. But the impressions of a good book remain.

[3-3.5 stars]
]]>
Grzechy dziecinstwa 123496318 53 Bolesław Prus 8386685239 Mela 4
This novella was another example. In a short time, I was transported back in time to a poor Polish village. I got attached to the characters, rejoiced with them in the happy moments of their lives, and was sad when they met sad, tragic ones.

[4-4.5 stars]]]>
4.00 Grzechy dziecinstwa
author: Bolesław Prus
name: Mela
average rating: 4.00
book published:
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2025/06/07
shelves: historical-fiction-to-learn-history, historical-period-long-19th-century, region-poland, short-story, historical-fiction, audio-book
review:
Bolesław Prus was one of the best Polish writers of the 19th century. Not only did he perfectly address important and interesting topics in terms of narrative, fluidity of plot, and interesting characters, but he also left us with time capsules. His stories can serve as lessons in history (especially of everyday life in the Polish lands in the 19th century).

This novella was another example. In a short time, I was transported back in time to a poor Polish village. I got attached to the characters, rejoiced with them in the happy moments of their lives, and was sad when they met sad, tragic ones.

[4-4.5 stars]
]]>
Mix Tape 45298339
Daniel was the first boy to make Alison a mix tape.

But that was years ago and Ali hasn’t thought about him in a very long time. Even if she had, she might not have called him ‘the one that got away’; she’d been the one to run away, after all.

Then Dan’s name pops up on her phone, with a link to a song from their shared past.

For two blissful minutes, Alison is no longer an adult in Adelaide with temperamental daughters; she is sixteen in Sheffield, dancing in her too-tight jeans. She cannot help but respond in kind.

And so begins a new mix tape.

Ali and Dan exchange songs – some new, some old – across oceans and time zones, across a lifetime of different experiences, until one of them breaks the rules and sends a message that will change everything…

Because what if ‘what could have been’ is still to come?]]>
392 Jane Sanderson 1787631923 Mela 4
If I were a fan or knew the songs from the novel, I would have enjoyed the reading more.

Solid 3 stars, but for how the main characters parted with life (long-term) partners, whom they also loved - 3.5 stars.]]>
3.74 2020 Mix Tape
author: Jane Sanderson
name: Mela
average rating: 3.74
book published: 2020
rating: 4
read at: 2025/06/07
date added: 2025/06/07
shelves: read-only-in-polish, zzz-local-library, 1945-1990s-romance, 2000-today-romance, region-australia, region-british
review:
An interesting idea for a love story. Well written. A quite thoughtful background of the character. And generally, it was nice to read. But sometimes I had the impression that the author repeated herself. And I always regret when the characters become rich (one way or another). I mean, statistically speaking, how often does it occur?

If I were a fan or knew the songs from the novel, I would have enjoyed the reading more.

Solid 3 stars, but for how the main characters parted with life (long-term) partners, whom they also loved - 3.5 stars.
]]>
Pygmalion 7714
In Shaw's clever adaptation, Professor Henry Higgins, a linguistic expert, takes on a bet that he can transform an awkward cockney flower seller into a refined young lady simply by polishing her manners and changing the way she speaks. In the process of convincing society that his creation is a mysterious royal figure, the Professor also falls in love with his elegant handiwork.

The irresistible theme of the emerging butterfly, together with Shaw's brilliant dialogue and splendid skills as a playwright, have made Pygmalion one of the most popular comedies in the English language. A staple of college drama courses, it is still widely performed.]]>
82 George Bernard Shaw 0486282228 Mela 5
I loved the ending of the play (that many readers call "unsatisfactory"). And I liked Shaw's epilogue.]]>
3.89 1913 Pygmalion
author: George Bernard Shaw
name: Mela
average rating: 3.89
book published: 1913
rating: 5
read at: 2025/06/06
date added: 2025/06/06
shelves: group-catching-up-on-classics, public-domain, region-british, psychological-and-philosophical, historical-fiction, historical-period-long-19th-century, historical-romance, humor, plays
review:
Funny, enjoyable, and definitely worth reading. It touched on numerous topics to discuss, which showed how brilliant it was.

I loved the ending of the play (that many readers call "unsatisfactory"). And I liked Shaw's epilogue.
]]>
Death in Venice 53061
Published on the eve of World War I, a decade after Buddenbrooks had established Thomas Mann as a literary celebrity, Death in Venice tells the story of Gustav von Aschenbach, a successful but aging writer who follows his wanderlust to Venice in search of spiritual fulfillment that instead leads to his erotic doom.
In the decaying city, besieged by an unnamed epidemic, he becomes obsessed with an exquisite Polish boy, Tadzio. "It is a story of the voluptuousness of doom," Mann wrote. "But the problem I had especially in mind was that of the artist's dignity."]]>
142 Thomas Mann 0060576170 Mela 4
Apart from that, it was also an interesting image of the place, time, and people of the era.]]>
3.77 1911 Death in Venice
author: Thomas Mann
name: Mela
average rating: 3.77
book published: 1911
rating: 4
read at: 2025/06/04
date added: 2025/06/04
shelves: group-guardian-1000-novels, group-catching-up-on-classics, audio-book, read-only-in-polish, psychological-and-philosophical, historical-fiction, historical-period-long-19th-century, region-italy, short-story
review:
At first, the narrative bored me, but at some point, I saw (or felt) sentimentality, poetry, and eroticism, which showed me the beauty of Mann's style.

Apart from that, it was also an interesting image of the place, time, and people of the era.
]]>
<![CDATA[Problematic Summer Romance (Not in Love, #2)]]> 228691356 What is wrong meets what feels right in this romance set in Italy by the New York Times bestselling author of Deep End.

Maya Killgore is twenty-three and still in the process of figuring out her life.

Conor Harkness is thirty-eight, and Maya cannot stop thinking about him.

It’s such a cliché, it almost makes her heart implode: older man and younger woman; successful biotech guy and struggling grad student; brother’s best friend and the girl he never even knew existed. As Conor loves to remind her, the power dynamic is too imbalanced. Any relationship between them would be problematic in too many ways to count, and Maya should just get over him. After all, he has made it clear that he wants her gone from his life.

But not everything is as it seems—and clichés sometimes become plot twists.

When Maya’s brother decides to get married in Taormina, she and Conor end up stuck together in a romantic Sicilian villa for over a week. There, on the beautiful Ionian coast, between ancient ruins, delicious foods, and natural caves, Maya realizes that Conor might be hiding something from her. And as the destination wedding begins to erupt out of control, she decides that a summer fling might be just what she needs—even if it’s a problematic one.]]>
416 Ali Hazelwood Mela 0 to-read, searching-a-copy 3.94 2025 Problematic Summer Romance (Not in Love, #2)
author: Ali Hazelwood
name: Mela
average rating: 3.94
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/06/03
shelves: to-read, searching-a-copy
review:

]]>
<![CDATA[Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead]]> 18545 126 Tom Stoppard 0802132758 Mela 0 4.04 1967 Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead
author: Tom Stoppard
name: Mela
average rating: 4.04
book published: 1967
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/06/02
shelves: to-read, internet-archive, group-catching-up-on-classics, zzz-to-read-groups
review:

]]>
A Simple Story 6822706 345 Elizabeth Inchbald 0199554722 Mela 3
However, the pleasure of listening was taken away from me by how long it was, which resulted from the excessive talk (analysis), often about the same thing.]]>
3.35 1791 A Simple Story
author: Elizabeth Inchbald
name: Mela
average rating: 3.35
book published: 1791
rating: 3
read at: 2025/06/02
date added: 2025/06/02
shelves: public-domain, audio-book, region-british, historical-fiction, historical-period-long-19th-century, historical-romance
review:
I appreciate the deep analysis of the characters, the fact that they were coherent, well thought out, etc. This is definitely the strongest point of the novel.

However, the pleasure of listening was taken away from me by how long it was, which resulted from the excessive talk (analysis), often about the same thing.
]]>
Smouldering Fire 42092420
Despite his passionate love for Ardfalloch, Iain has been driven to let his home and estate to Mr Hetherington Smith, a wealthy London businessman, and his kindly wife (who was, truth be told, happier when they were poor).

MacAslan stays on in a cottage by the loch, aided by his devoted keeper Donald and Donald’s wife Morag. But he finds himself irresistibly drawn to Linda Medworth and her young son, invited to Ardfalloch by Mrs Hetherington Smith. Lush Highland scenery and a ruined castle set the stage for a mystery, and tension builds to a shocking conclusion.

Smouldering Fire was first published in the U.K. in 1935 and in the U.S. in 1938. Later reprints were all heavily abridged. For our reprint, Furrowed Middlebrow and Dean Street Press have followed the text of the first U.K. edition, and are proud to be producing the first complete, unabridged edition of the novel in eighty years.]]>
287 D.E. Stevenson Mela 2
This time I perceived the atmosphere as Scottish fanaticism. I had had enough of this praising etc.

The plot was predictable (which in itself is not discrediting), and also boring. Often nothing happened, subsequent pages brought nothing.

The author did not discourage me, but it was definitely one of her weaker novels.]]>
3.98 1935 Smouldering Fire
author: D.E. Stevenson
name: Mela
average rating: 3.98
book published: 1935
rating: 2
read at: 2025/06/02
date added: 2025/06/02
shelves: group-retro-reads, internet-archive, historical-period-1914-1945, historical-romance, region-scotland
review:
The author is famous for her love of everything Scottish and she can write charming stories.

This time I perceived the atmosphere as Scottish fanaticism. I had had enough of this praising etc.

The plot was predictable (which in itself is not discrediting), and also boring. Often nothing happened, subsequent pages brought nothing.

The author did not discourage me, but it was definitely one of her weaker novels.
]]>
Tom Lake 63241104 In this beautiful and moving novel about family, love, and growing up, Ann Patchett once again proves herself one of America’s finest writers.

In the spring of 2020, Lara’s three daughters return to the family's orchard in Northern Michigan. While picking cherries, they beg their mother to tell them the story of Peter Duke, a famous actor with whom she shared both a stage and a romance years before at a theater company called Tom Lake. As Lara recalls the past, her daughters examine their own lives and relationship with their mother, and are forced to reconsider the world and everything they thought they knew.

Tom Lake is a meditation on youthful love, married love, and the lives parents have led before their children were born. Both hopeful and elegiac, it explores what it means to be happy even when the world is falling apart. As in all of her novels, Ann Patchett combines compelling narrative artistry with piercing insights into family dynamics. The result is a rich and luminous story, told with profound intelligence and emotional subtlety, that demonstrates once again why she is one of the most revered and acclaimed literary talents working today.]]>
309 Ann Patchett 006332752X Mela 0 The Dutch House and I am going to try another novel by Ann Patchett, but I gave up this one.]]> 3.92 2023 Tom Lake
author: Ann Patchett
name: Mela
average rating: 3.92
book published: 2023
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/29
shelves: did-not-finish, zzz-local-library
review:
I belong to the readers who found it rather boring. I am not going to force myself to finish it. I really liked The Dutch House and I am going to try another novel by Ann Patchett, but I gave up this one.
]]>
Mrs. Drew Plays Her Hand 17878586 365 Carla Kelly 1462102484 Mela 3
Unfortunately, after a certain point, I started to get a bit bored, as if the story was going around in circles, repeating itself.

Nevertheless, there were no absurdities that in books of this genre, can cause distaste or disgusted sighs when the author treats the reader as stupid or naive.]]>
4.41 1994 Mrs. Drew Plays Her Hand
author: Carla Kelly
name: Mela
average rating: 4.41
book published: 1994
rating: 3
read at: 2025/05/29
date added: 2025/05/29
shelves: internet-archive, historical-period-long-19th-century, historical-romance, region-british
review:
A well-written historical romance. Interesting basics, an idea for characters that you could sympathize with and understand the choices.

Unfortunately, after a certain point, I started to get a bit bored, as if the story was going around in circles, repeating itself.

Nevertheless, there were no absurdities that in books of this genre, can cause distaste or disgusted sighs when the author treats the reader as stupid or naive.
]]>
The Boy Most Likely To 24883170 The romantic companion to My Life Next Door—great for fans of Sarah Dessen and Jenny Han.  Tim Mason was The Boy Most Likely To find the liquor cabinet blindfolded, need a liver transplant, and drive his car into a house Alice Garrett was The Girl Most Likely To . . . well, not date her little brother’s baggage-burdened best friend, for starters. For Tim, it wouldn’t be smart to fall for Alice. For Alice, nothing could be scarier than falling for Tim. But Tim has never been known for making the smart choice, and Alice is starting to wonder if the “smart” choice is always the right one. When these two crash into each other, they crash hard. Told in Tim’s and Alice’s distinctive, disarming, entirely compelling voices, this novel is for readers of The Spectacular Now, Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist, and Paper Towns.]]> 320 Huntley Fitzpatrick 0698157907 Mela 4
"The Boy Most Likely To" wisely and unconventionally presented young (almost teenage) parenthood. It was also about growing up and responsibility in the family.

And there was George (the 4-year-old from the previous part of the series) - how can you not adore him?

[4-4.5 stars]]]>
3.86 2015 The Boy Most Likely To
author: Huntley Fitzpatrick
name: Mela
average rating: 3.86
book published: 2015
rating: 4
read at: 2025/05/27
date added: 2025/05/27
shelves: 2000-today-romance, humor, region-usa, young-and-new-adult, series
review:
It's sad that Mrs Fitzpatrick died in 2022 and hadn't had time to write more than three novels. Her YA stories were mature, witty, romantic and don't shy away from difficult topics.

"The Boy Most Likely To" wisely and unconventionally presented young (almost teenage) parenthood. It was also about growing up and responsibility in the family.

And there was George (the 4-year-old from the previous part of the series) - how can you not adore him?

[4-4.5 stars]
]]>
Absalom, Absalom! 373755 316 William Faulkner 0679732187 Mela 0 to-read, zzz-local-library 3.98 1936 Absalom, Absalom!
author: William Faulkner
name: Mela
average rating: 3.98
book published: 1936
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/26
shelves: to-read, zzz-local-library
review:

]]>
State of Wonder 9118135
As Dr. Marina Singh embarks upon an uncertain odyssey into the insect-infested Amazon, she will be forced to surrender herself to the lush but forbidding world that awaits within the jungle.

Charged with finding her former mentor Dr. Annick Swenson, a researcher who has disappeared while working on a valuable new drug, she will have to confront her own memories of tragedy and sacrifice as she journeys into the unforgiving heart of darkness.

Stirring and luminous, "State of Wonder" is a world unto itself, where unlikely beauty stands beside unimaginable loss beneath the rain forest's jeweled canopy.]]>
353 Ann Patchett 0062049801 Mela 0 to-read, zzz-local-library 3.88 2011 State of Wonder
author: Ann Patchett
name: Mela
average rating: 3.88
book published: 2011
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/26
shelves: to-read, zzz-local-library
review:

]]>
The Magician's Assistant 16055 Alternate cover edition of ISBN 9781857028157

Sabine-- twenty years a magician's assistant to her handsome, charming husband-- is suddenly a widow. In the wake of his death, she finds he has left a final trick; a false identity and a family allegedly lost in a tragic accident but now revealed as very much alive and well. Named as heirs in his will, they enter Sabine's life and set her on an adventure of unraveling his secrets, from sunny Los Angeles to the windswept plains of Nebraska, that will work its own sort of magic on her.]]>
357 Ann Patchett Mela 0 to-read, zzz-legimi-depozyt 3.68 1997 The Magician's Assistant
author: Ann Patchett
name: Mela
average rating: 3.68
book published: 1997
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/26
shelves: to-read, zzz-legimi-depozyt
review:

]]>
Together, Again 61115572 THE NEW MILLY JOHNSON NOVEL, THE HAPPIEST EVER AFTER, IS OUT NOW!

Together again after years apart, can they find a new beginning? The brilliant novel full of laughter, love, tears and hope from the Sunday Times bestselling author Milly Johnson.

'This masterpiece honestly describes the strength and acceptance required to be a family. 5 STARS' ADELE PARKS, Book of the Month, Platinum magazine

'Darkness and light, complexity and humour, Milly has nailed the perfect cocktail for a compelling, page-turning read. Absolutely magnificent.' VERONICA HENRY

‘Emotional, empowering and heart-wrenching – sisterhood at its finest’ CATHY BRAMLEY

Sisters Jolene, Marsha and Annis have convened at their beautiful family home, Fox House, following the death of their mother, the tricky Eleanor Vamplew. Born seven years apart, the women are more strangers than sisters.

Jolene, the eldest, is a successful romantic novelist who writes about beautiful relationships even though her own marriage to the handsome and charming Warren is complicated.

Marsha, the neglected middle child, has put all of her energy into her work, hoping money will plug the gap in her life left by the man who broke her young heart.

Annis is the renegade, who left home aged sixteen and never returned, not even for the death of their beloved father Julian. Until now.

So when the sisters discover that their mother has left everything to Annis in her will, it undermines everything they thought they knew. Can saying their final goodbyes to Eleanor bring them together again?

Together, Again is the story of truths uncovered and lies exposed, of secrets told – and kept. It is a novel about sister helping sister to heal from childhood scars and finding in each other support, forgiveness, courage and love.

Your favourite authors love Milly

 
‘Reading a Milly Johnson book is like spending time with a best friend – you always end up feeling better about the world. Written with genuine warmth and heart, they’re an absolute treat’ Lucy Diamond

‘Milly Johnson always delivers an absolutely cracking read’ Katie Fforde

‘One of those novels that draws you in to its world and makes you wish you could be friends with Shay. A tantalising juicy tale full of twists and turns that kept me gripped. Warm, funny and moving. One to curl up with and devour’ Ruth Jones

‘The feeling you get when you read a Milly Johnson book should be bottled and made available on the NHS’ Debbie Johnson

‘Milly’s writing is like getting a big hug with just the right amount of bite underneath’ Jane Fallon
]]>
372 Milly Johnson Mela 4 They say you can fool other people but not yourself, but that is not how it is in practice. We all try to fool ourselves and make our own truth
An interesting idea for showing a narcissistic personality (without criminal threads), who was a wife, a mother. With whom could such a person create a lasting relationship. How could such a mother influence her children, what kind of childhood could she create for them. The paths of life, the choices of the three daughters were a consequence of the kind of parents they had. This image was well thought out and fascinating.

The coincidence that [spoilers removed] was a bit far-fetched, but I can accept it.

Traditionally for the author, there were characters that one would want to love (and be loved by) - which always means that even if Milly Johnson does not give great romances, the love stories in her books warm the heart of a romantic.]]>
4.30 Together, Again
author: Milly Johnson
name: Mela
average rating: 4.30
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2025/05/24
date added: 2025/05/24
shelves: 2000-today-romance, 2000-today, region-british
review:
They say you can fool other people but not yourself, but that is not how it is in practice. We all try to fool ourselves and make our own truth

An interesting idea for showing a narcissistic personality (without criminal threads), who was a wife, a mother. With whom could such a person create a lasting relationship. How could such a mother influence her children, what kind of childhood could she create for them. The paths of life, the choices of the three daughters were a consequence of the kind of parents they had. This image was well thought out and fascinating.

The coincidence that [spoilers removed] was a bit far-fetched, but I can accept it.

Traditionally for the author, there were characters that one would want to love (and be loved by) - which always means that even if Milly Johnson does not give great romances, the love stories in her books warm the heart of a romantic.
]]>
My Life Next Door 12294652 A gorgeous debut about family, friendship, first romance, and how to be true to one person you love without betraying another

“One thing my mother never knew, and would disapprove of most of all, was that I watched the Garretts. All the time.”

The Garretts are everything the Reeds are not. Loud, numerous, messy, affectionate. And every day from her balcony perch, seventeen-year-old Samantha Reed wishes she was one of them . . . until one summer evening, Jase Garrett climbs her terrace and changes everything. As the two fall fiercely in love, Jase's family makes Samantha one of their own. Then in an instant, the bottom drops out of her world and she is suddenly faced with an impossible decision. Which perfect family will save her? Or is it time she saved herself?

A dreamy summer read, full of characters who stay with you long after the story is over.]]>
394 Huntley Fitzpatrick 0803736991 Mela 5 A wonderful, coming-of-age love story. Sweet, wise, comfort/summer reading. Not the kind of full of anger, misunderstanding, and sex. I really hope there are many teenagers who have such first love.

Jase was so stable-on and I-have-no-problem-looking-you-in-the-eye I am sure many young female readers fell in love with him. [The rest probably in Tim or Joel ;-) ] And George! I want to hug (and kidnap ;-) ) him.

I am not sure if the drama twist was necessary, but it was Huntley Fitzpatrick's choice, it changed Samantha a lot and it didn't spoil the novel, so perhaps it was a good choice.

For more I recommend Jenn's review. She wrote what I think and feel about it.

PS It was the kind of book that gripped my full attention while reading, I wanted to read it without break. I have had a splendid time and haven't skipped any paragraphs. And for that, I am giving it 5 stars. But it wasn't a book that changed my life. 5 stars mean it was outstanding amongst the genre.]]>
3.97 2012 My Life Next Door
author: Huntley Fitzpatrick
name: Mela
average rating: 3.97
book published: 2012
rating: 5
read at: 2022/01/18
date added: 2025/05/24
shelves: region-usa, 2000-today-romance, humor, young-and-new-adult
review:
A wonderful, coming-of-age love story. Sweet, wise, comfort/summer reading. Not the kind of full of anger, misunderstanding, and sex. I really hope there are many teenagers who have such first love.

Jase was so stable-on and I-have-no-problem-looking-you-in-the-eye I am sure many young female readers fell in love with him. [The rest probably in Tim or Joel ;-) ] And George! I want to hug (and kidnap ;-) ) him.

I am not sure if the drama twist was necessary, but it was Huntley Fitzpatrick's choice, it changed Samantha a lot and it didn't spoil the novel, so perhaps it was a good choice.

For more I recommend Jenn's review. She wrote what I think and feel about it.

PS It was the kind of book that gripped my full attention while reading, I wanted to read it without break. I have had a splendid time and haven't skipped any paragraphs. And for that, I am giving it 5 stars. But it wasn't a book that changed my life. 5 stars mean it was outstanding amongst the genre.
]]>
<![CDATA[The Bride (Lairds' Fiancées, #1)]]> 107779
But Jamie has vowed to never surrender to this fierce highland barbarian. He is everything she had been warned against—an arrogant scoundrel whose rough good looks hint at savage pleasures. And though his scorching kisses fire her blood, she brazenly resists him…until one rapturous moment quells their clash of wills, and something far more dangerous than desire threatens to conquer her completely.]]>
352 Julie Garwood 0743452925 Mela 2
I couldn't take it seriously, it was ridiculous, that melodramatic language, etc. Perhaps it sounded so absurd in Polish, I don't remember it being "so bad" in English. But, perhaps I was then too proud of myself that I understood it, that I didn't pay attention.

The idea for a love story was nice, but the performance wasn't good.

[1.5 stars]]]>
4.22 1989 The Bride (Lairds' Fiancées, #1)
author: Julie Garwood
name: Mela
average rating: 4.22
book published: 1989
rating: 2
read at: 2025/05/21
date added: 2025/05/21
shelves: zzz-local-library, historical-period-middle-ages, historical-romance, region-scotland
review:
I am sure I read it years ago, when I started to read novels in English (picking up those less complicated). So, I remembered this or that. I can't tell that I read it now the second time, because after the first hundred pages, I mostly skimmed the other two hundred.

I couldn't take it seriously, it was ridiculous, that melodramatic language, etc. Perhaps it sounded so absurd in Polish, I don't remember it being "so bad" in English. But, perhaps I was then too proud of myself that I understood it, that I didn't pay attention.

The idea for a love story was nice, but the performance wasn't good.

[1.5 stars]
]]>
Cotillion 512338
Cotillion shows what made Georgette Heyer the undisputed queen of historical romance - one of the most popular novelists of her day, she is still adored by a huge readership.]]>
324 Georgette Heyer 0099474379 Mela 5
----- My review after the second reading: -----

Yes, you would not choose Freddy to fight dragons. Yes, he wasn't the kind to make me swoon. But when he 'got a notion' it was a wise idea. And if you need a friend, someone to whom you can look for help, and who has a kind heart - he is your guy! The book was about Freddy - one of the best man characters ever. Freddy was the book.

Besides Freddy, the novel was a pure pleasure of language, wit, and amusement. To savour, have fun, and shine the mood.

Other reviewers have written all. So I will just go and kiss the book again.

PS This time I have had a paper copy and I could hug it properly at the end ;-)

-------------------------

My review after the first reading:

"It Won't Do, You Know!"

I fell in love with Heyer's hero - again! This piece of her was brilliant. I think it was the funniest I have read by now. And, really, I wasn't sure one hundred percent how it would up. When it ended up I had a big (really big) smile on my face and I was hugging the book [To tell the truth I was hugging the tablet. I regretted that in this case, I hadn't a printed book. But still, I just had to hug it ;-) ].

What should I add? Very funny, witty, even a little surprising plot twists. Many interesting characters. I haven't even one complaint.

I had understood one thing during reading it: that Heyer was more accomplished than I thought. In her (one would think plain) romances she smuggled a hard, sometimes painful truth. In "Cotilion" it was the fate of girls like Olivia or men like Lord Dolphinton or Camille. Yes, their fates were funnily described and had happy endings (in Heyer's novels), but if you give them a second thought you will understand that in real life it surely was different.

But, first of all - "Cotilion" is a book which makes you laugh, which makes your day sunny ;-)

If you are not yet convinced read Anne review ;-)]]>
4.06 1953 Cotillion
author: Georgette Heyer
name: Mela
average rating: 4.06
book published: 1953
rating: 5
read at: 2025/05/20
date added: 2025/05/20
shelves: humor, region-british, historical-romance, the-best-witty-romances, my-hero, historical-period-long-19th-century, re-read, audio-book
review:
I wrote all already in my previous reviews. I just add that I simply melted when Freddy stepped aside during the last conversation between Kitty and Jack. Writers of bestseller romances can write long, details scenes, love declarations, etc., but Heyer could do a marvellous (much better) job with just a few words.

----- My review after the second reading: -----

Yes, you would not choose Freddy to fight dragons. Yes, he wasn't the kind to make me swoon. But when he 'got a notion' it was a wise idea. And if you need a friend, someone to whom you can look for help, and who has a kind heart - he is your guy! The book was about Freddy - one of the best man characters ever. Freddy was the book.

Besides Freddy, the novel was a pure pleasure of language, wit, and amusement. To savour, have fun, and shine the mood.

Other reviewers have written all. So I will just go and kiss the book again.

PS This time I have had a paper copy and I could hug it properly at the end ;-)

-------------------------

My review after the first reading:

"It Won't Do, You Know!"

I fell in love with Heyer's hero - again! This piece of her was brilliant. I think it was the funniest I have read by now. And, really, I wasn't sure one hundred percent how it would up. When it ended up I had a big (really big) smile on my face and I was hugging the book [To tell the truth I was hugging the tablet. I regretted that in this case, I hadn't a printed book. But still, I just had to hug it ;-) ].

What should I add? Very funny, witty, even a little surprising plot twists. Many interesting characters. I haven't even one complaint.

I had understood one thing during reading it: that Heyer was more accomplished than I thought. In her (one would think plain) romances she smuggled a hard, sometimes painful truth. In "Cotilion" it was the fate of girls like Olivia or men like Lord Dolphinton or Camille. Yes, their fates were funnily described and had happy endings (in Heyer's novels), but if you give them a second thought you will understand that in real life it surely was different.

But, first of all - "Cotilion" is a book which makes you laugh, which makes your day sunny ;-)

If you are not yet convinced read Anne review ;-)
]]>
The Charmers 11100038 240 Stella Gibbons 0099560542 Mela 4 3.56 1965 The Charmers
author: Stella Gibbons
name: Mela
average rating: 3.56
book published: 1965
rating: 4
read at: 2025/05/18
date added: 2025/05/18
shelves: group-retro-reads, group-catching-up-on-classic-bingo, 1945-1990s, 1945-1990s-romance, region-british
review:
A writer to whom I return with pleasure from the first novel I read. She captivated me with her realism, truthfulness in describing reality. Often her characters are not likeable, and her stories unpleasant, because, I think, Gibbons's goal was to depict certain parts of the world and personality, and not to please the reader. And I value her very much for that. She also did not overdo it with form. She did not use melodrama. She was able to write character-driven novels that are not boring. She pictured images of different types of personalities in their time.
]]>
Ziemia obiecana 2162324 472 Władysław Stanisław Reymont Mela 5
A masterpiece of historical fiction. Just read it.]]>
4.13 1899 Ziemia obiecana
author: Władysław Stanisław Reymont
name: Mela
average rating: 4.13
book published: 1899
rating: 5
read at: 2025/05/18
date added: 2025/05/18
shelves: audio-book, zzz-empikgo, historical-fiction-to-learn-history, psychological-and-philosophical, greatly-impressing, historical-fiction, historical-period-long-19th-century, historical-romance, humor, region-poland
review:
A brilliant, priceless historical fiction. Reymont's portrait of the rapid industrialization of the city of Łódź and its cruel effects on workers and mill owners was magnificent. People and their choices, the harsh life of the poor, boredom, and the luxury of the richest - so much like today. From the point of historical value, it was a capsule of time. One could learn a lot about everyday life.

A masterpiece of historical fiction. Just read it.
]]>
Same Time Next Week 213990956 PRE-ORDER LET THE BELLS RING OUT, THE HEARTWARMING AND UPLIFITNG NEW MILLY JOHNSON NOVEL, COMING THIS CHRISTMAS!

'Milly is the most wonderful, life-affirming writer about women's lives, love and friendship; her books are a joy.' JENNY COLGAN

‘Real women, real life, real feeling, Milly brings it all.’ CATHY BRAMLEY

'Milly writes with a huge heart about the challenges women face, particularly in later life. Her wisdom shines through, as does her no-one can bring you from tears to smiles more quickly. Her books are warm, funny and real, and her stories celebrate triumph over adversity, the power of love, and the importance of friendship. Her heroines are down to earth yet reach for the sky and are truly inspirational, like Milly herself. She makes the world a better place.' VERONICA HENRY

'Romantic fiction at it's very best, I adored it. Warm, welcoming, funny, and wise, just like Milly!' JO THOMAS

Welcome to Spring Hill, home to a square of independent shops and cafes, a thriving local community and nearby the newest venture, Ray’s Diner. Here a group of women meet once a week over a cup of something warming.
 
Amanda is primary carer to her elderly mother and one of the only women in a male-dominated company. Used to being second-best all her life, is this her time to finally break ranks and shine?
 
Sky works at the repair shop, patching up old teddy bears, and their owners’ hearts. But her heart beats for the one man who is strictly off-limits.
 
Mel has been a loyal and loving wife to Steve for thirty years. Then when he goes to his old school reunion, life as she knows it will never be the same again.
 
Erin is trying to get over a traumatic loss where her guilt weighs more than her grief. Can she find the first step to healing lies in sharing an hour with strangers once a week? 
 
Astrid is feeling in need of a change and a challenge. But when a fantastic opportunity presents itself, who is around to convince her she is worthy enough to take the risk?
 
Can these women find the answers to their worries, acceptance, courage, support here? Join them at the same time next week to find out…
 ]]>
461 Milly Johnson 1398523593 Mela 0 to-read, searching-a-copy 4.30 Same Time Next Week
author: Milly Johnson
name: Mela
average rating: 4.30
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/18
shelves: to-read, searching-a-copy
review:

]]>
<![CDATA[Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas: A Savage Journey to the Heart of the American Dream]]> 7745 Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas is the best chronicle of drug-soaked, addle-brained, rollicking good times ever committed to the printed page. It is also the tale of a long weekend road trip that has gone down in the annals of American pop culture as one of the strangest journeys ever undertaken.]]> 204 Hunter S. Thompson 0679785892 Mela 0 to-read, internet-archive 4.07 1971 Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas: A Savage Journey to the Heart of the American Dream
author: Hunter S. Thompson
name: Mela
average rating: 4.07
book published: 1971
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/15
shelves: to-read, internet-archive
review:

]]>
Breakfast of Champions 4980 Alternate cover for this ISBN can be found here

In Breakfast of Champions, one of Kurt Vonnegut’s most beloved characters, the aging writer Kilgore Trout, finds to his horror that a Midwest car dealer is taking his fiction as truth. What follows is murderously funny satire, as Vonnegut looks at war, sex, racism, success, politics, and pollution in America and reminds us how to see the truth.]]>
303 Kurt Vonnegut Jr. 0385334206 Mela 5
For me, an interesting read, it gave me some ideas. I think that some elements, observations will stay with me for a long time.

[4.5 stars]]]>
4.08 1973 Breakfast of Champions
author: Kurt Vonnegut Jr.
name: Mela
average rating: 4.08
book published: 1973
rating: 5
read at: 2025/05/15
date added: 2025/05/15
shelves: group-guardian-1000-novels, read-only-in-polish, zzz-local-library, region-usa, 1945-1990s, psychological-and-philosophical, science-fiction
review:
An unusual book, especially in form. The same could be said, conveyed in a more conventional way, but that was of course the author's decision.

For me, an interesting read, it gave me some ideas. I think that some elements, observations will stay with me for a long time.

[4.5 stars]
]]>
Nightwood 53101
The outsized characters who inhabit this world are some of the most memorable in all of fiction—there is Guido Volkbein, the Wandering Jew and son of a self-proclaimed baron; Robin Vote, the American expatriate who marries him and then engages in a series of affairs, first with Nora Flood and then with Jenny Petherbridge, driving all of her lovers to distraction with her passion for wandering alone in the night; and there is Dr. Matthew-Mighty-Grain-of-Salt-Dante-O'Connor, a transvestite and ostensible gynecologist, whose digressive speeches brim with fury, keen insights, and surprising allusions.

Barnes' depiction of these characters and their relationships (Nora says, "A man is another person—a woman is yourself, caught as you turn in panic; on her mouth you kiss your own") has made the novel a landmark of feminist and lesbian literature. Most striking of all is Barnes' unparalleled stylistic innovation, which led T. S. Eliot to proclaim the book "so good a novel that only sensibilities trained on poetry can wholly appreciate it."

Now with a new preface by Jeanette Winterson, Nightwood still crackles with the same electric charge it had on its first publication in 1936.]]>
182 Djuna Barnes 0811216713 Mela 0 3.66 1936 Nightwood
author: Djuna Barnes
name: Mela
average rating: 3.66
book published: 1936
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/13
shelves: internet-archive, group-guardian-1000-novels, did-not-finish
review:
Well, perhaps like people write, that only sensibilities trained on poetry can wholly appreciate it. I was wrestling with reading. Maybe, if I had done it a bit longer, I would have started to like it. Maybe...
]]>
Flowers for Algernon 18373 Winner of both the Hugo and Nebula Awards, the powerful, classic story about a man who receives an operation that turns him into a genius...and introduces him to heartache.
 
Charlie Gordon is about to embark upon an unprecedented journey. Born with an unusually low IQ, he has been chosen as the perfect subject for an experimental surgery that researchers hope will increase his intelligence – a procedure that has already been highly successful when tested on a lab mouse named Algernon.

As the treatment takes effect, Charlie's intelligence expands until it surpasses that of the doctors who engineered his metamorphosis. The experiment appears to be a scientific breakthrough of paramount importance, until Algernon suddenly deteriorates. Will the same happen to Charlie?]]>
311 Daniel Keyes 015603008X Mela 5
----- My review after the first reading: -----

Marvelous. Brilliant. Wise. Timeless. Perfect. Must-read for everyone. No matter how many years you have.]]>
4.19 1966 Flowers for Algernon
author: Daniel Keyes
name: Mela
average rating: 4.19
book published: 1966
rating: 5
read at: 2025/05/12
date added: 2025/05/12
shelves: group-guardian-1000-novels, psychological-and-philosophical, region-usa, audio-book, science-fiction, young-and-new-adult, greatly-touching, re-read, group-local-book-clubs, greatly-impressing
review:
Reading it (or more precisely, this time, listening to it) the second time was wrenching. I knew how it was going to end up, so every sentence was like a little twinge in my heart. I did it to myself because I wanted to "refresh my memory" before a book club discussion. But I really don't want to do it again.

----- My review after the first reading: -----

Marvelous. Brilliant. Wise. Timeless. Perfect. Must-read for everyone. No matter how many years you have.
]]>
<![CDATA[Myself When Young: The Shaping of a Writer]]> 511794 195 Daphne du Maurier 184408096X Mela 3
There were priceless explanations for her fans, but I would not recommend it for someone who hasn't read at least a few of her books.

[3-3.5 stars]]]>
3.82 1977 Myself When Young: The Shaping of a Writer
author: Daphne du Maurier
name: Mela
average rating: 3.82
book published: 1977
rating: 3
read at: 2025/05/12
date added: 2025/05/12
shelves: group-virago-modern-classic, zzz-local-library, read-only-in-polish, 1945-1990s, biography, non-fiction, region-british
review:
Such a memoir, one can't take as a biography. The book was just a recollection of childhood and young adulthood done by the "main character". And as such, it was an interesting glimpse, how du Maurier saw her own young years.

There were priceless explanations for her fans, but I would not recommend it for someone who hasn't read at least a few of her books.

[3-3.5 stars]
]]>
Fidelity 933516
Set in Iowa in 1900 and in 1913, this dramatic and deeply moral novel uses complex but subtle use of flashback to describe a girl named Ruth Holland, bored with her life at home, falling in love with a married man and running off with him; when she comes back more than a decade later we are shown how her actions have affected those around her. Ruth had taken another woman's husband and as such 'Freeport' society thinks she is 'a human being who selfishly - basely - took her own happiness, leaving misery for others. She outraged society as completely as a woman could outrage it... One who defies it - deceives it - must be shut out from it.'

But, like Emma Bovary, Edna Pontellier in 'The Awakening' and Nora in 'A Doll's House' Ruth has 'a diffused longing for an enlarged experience... Her energies having been shut off from the way they had wanted to go, she was all the more zestful for new things from life...' It is these that are explored in Fidelity.]]>
358 Susan Glaspell 0953478033 Mela 0 3.97 1915 Fidelity
author: Susan Glaspell
name: Mela
average rating: 3.97
book published: 1915
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/11
shelves: to-read, public-domain, zzz-to-read-groups, group-persephone-books
review:

]]>
A Glass of Blessings 6669356 277 Barbara Pym 1844085805 Mela 0
PS I checked how it ended, and the message was good, so if you are considering it, give it a try.]]>
3.97 1958 A Glass of Blessings
author: Barbara Pym
name: Mela
average rating: 3.97
book published: 1958
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/10
shelves: group-virago-modern-classic, internet-archive, did-not-finish
review:
It was a nice read, but I wasn't much interested in the characters, so I decided to abandon it. I know that Barbara Pym had a wit and an observant eye, but it looks like sometimes I can't keep my curiosity and stay focused on the story.

PS I checked how it ended, and the message was good, so if you are considering it, give it a try.
]]>
Nora Webster 21412360 From one of contemporary literature's most acclaimed and beloved authors comes this magnificent new novel set in a small town in Ireland in the 1960s, where a fiercely compelling, too-young widow and mother of four moves from grief, fear, and longing to unexpected discovery. Toibin's portrayal of the intricacy and drama of ordinary lives brings to mind of the work of Alice Munro.
     Set in Wexford, Ireland, and in breathtaking Ballyconnigar by the sea, Colm Toibin's tour de force eighth novel introduces the formidable, memorable Nora Webster. Widowed at 40, with four children and not enough money, Nora has lost the love of her life, Maurice, the man who rescued her from the stifling world she was born into. Wounded and self-centred from grief and the need to provide for her family, she struggles to be attentive to her children's needs and their own difficult loss. In masterfully detailing the intimate lives of one small family, Toibin has given us a vivid portrait of a time and an intricately woven tapestry of lives in a small town where everyone knows everyone's business, and where well-meaning gestures often have unforeseen consequences. Toibin has created one of contemporary fiction's most memorable female characters, one who has the strength and depth of Ibsen's Hedda Gabler. In Nora Webster, Colm Toibin is writing at the height of his powers.]]>
373 Colm Tóibín 1439138338 Mela 4
In the hands of another writer, this story might have simply been dull. But Tóibín infused it with Irish reality and crafted characters that carried the narrative smoothly, guiding the reader through an ordinary tragedy.

[3.5-4 stars]]]>
3.59 2014 Nora Webster
author: Colm Tóibín
name: Mela
average rating: 3.59
book published: 2014
rating: 4
read at: 2025/05/09
date added: 2025/05/09
shelves: internet-archive, region-ireland, zzz-local-library, read-only-in-polish, 1945-1990s
review:
An unassuming, one might even say simple, quiet story about grieving a husband. Nora needed three years to finally come to terms with his death. She didn’t become a different person, nor did her relationships with her children undergo any profound purification or dramatic change—but in the end, she began to move forward without her husband’s shadow.

In the hands of another writer, this story might have simply been dull. But Tóibín infused it with Irish reality and crafted characters that carried the narrative smoothly, guiding the reader through an ordinary tragedy.

[3.5-4 stars]
]]>
The du Mauriers 18869992 The du Mauriers she was only thirty years old and had already established herself as both a biographer and a novelist. She wrote this epic biography during a vintage period in her career, between two of her best-loved novels: Jamaica Inn and Rebecca. Her aim was to write the story of her family 'so that it reads like a novel.'

Spanning nearly three quarters of a century, The du Mauriers is a saga of artists and speculators, courtesans and military men. From England to Paris and back again, their fortunes varied as wildly as their ambitions. An extraordinary family of writers, artists and actors they are...The du Mauriers.]]>
336 Daphne du Maurier Mela 0 to-read, zzz-legimi-depozyt 3.55 1937 The du Mauriers
author: Daphne du Maurier
name: Mela
average rating: 3.55
book published: 1937
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/07
shelves: to-read, zzz-legimi-depozyt
review:

]]>
The Winners (Beartown, #3) 60318890
As the locals of Beartown struggle to overcome the past, great change is on the horizon. Someone is coming home after a long time away. Someone will be laid to rest. Someone will fall in love, someone will try to fix their marriage, and someone will do anything to save their children. Someone will submit to hate, someone will fight, and someone will grab a gun and walk towards the ice rink.

So what are the residents of Beartown willing to sacrifice for their home?]]>
671 Fredrik Backman Mela 4
Aside from it, Fredrik Backman (like in Beartown, I haven't read Us Against You) built a world that I felt. I appreciated what he said about small societies, families, about being a parent, growing up, about the need to belong, and about the dark side of team sport. I lived through the story with the characters. And yes, I did have tears in my eyes at the end.

But again, sometimes I had had enough of all those preparations for a big event, all repeating that something was going to happen in a minute that would change lives, etc.]]>
4.45 2022 The Winners (Beartown, #3)
author: Fredrik Backman
name: Mela
average rating: 4.45
book published: 2022
rating: 4
read at: 2025/05/07
date added: 2025/05/07
shelves: audio-book, read-only-in-polish, zzz-empikgo, psychological-and-philosophical, 2000-today, 2000-today-romance, region-scandinavia, series
review:
Let's start with the fact that it was too long. And I really mean toooo long. I understand the need to create an atmosphere, but the number of repetitions was enormous. I am pretty sure that if it were my first novel by the author, I would have abandoned it.

Aside from it, Fredrik Backman (like in Beartown, I haven't read Us Against You) built a world that I felt. I appreciated what he said about small societies, families, about being a parent, growing up, about the need to belong, and about the dark side of team sport. I lived through the story with the characters. And yes, I did have tears in my eyes at the end.

But again, sometimes I had had enough of all those preparations for a big event, all repeating that something was going to happen in a minute that would change lives, etc.
]]>
Wise Children 721867 240 Angela Carter 014017530X Mela 0 3.93 1991 Wise Children
author: Angela Carter
name: Mela
average rating: 3.93
book published: 1991
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/05
shelves: zzz-local-library, did-not-finish
review:
My second try with Angela Carter. This time, it was a smooth read, and obviously, the author was astute (learned). She had something to tell, and she could work (juggle) with a story and a form as well. Yet, I don't feel like spending more time with the novel.
]]>
<![CDATA[The Newspaper of Claremont Street]]> 2501938 151 Elizabeth Jolley 1860498329 Mela 3 3.50 1981 The Newspaper of Claremont Street
author: Elizabeth Jolley
name: Mela
average rating: 3.50
book published: 1981
rating: 3
read at: 2025/05/04
date added: 2025/05/04
shelves: group-virago-modern-classic, internet-archive, short-story, region-australia, 1945-1990s
review:
Although it's a short story, it took me some time to get into it. Nevertheless, in the end, I appreciated the world the author portrayed—the fate of a working-class woman, an Englishwoman who, after emigrating with her mother and younger brother to Australia for a better life, cleaned middle-class homes. A seemingly tolerant world, yet one full of prejudices and class divisions. The character of a former Russian tsarist aristocrat, who reminisces about a childhood full of luxury while living in old age practically alone and in poverty, was a brilliant counterpoint. And the twist involving [spoilers removed] in its own way, a fitting conclusion to Weekly’s story.
]]>
<![CDATA[Elementary Romantic Calculus (Chemistry Lessons, #6)]]> 57019575
It’s not easy adapting to rural life when you’re an inveterate city girl, but Mia tries to make the best of it until she can get the heck out of Podunk—er, Crowder, Texas. Things finally start to look up after a run-in with some terrifying local wildlife sends her careening into the arms of a sexy goat farmer/cheesemaker.

Mia finds herself unexpectedly drawn to Josh’s gruff cowboy charms, especially after she learns what lies behind the thick walls he’s built around his heart. The deeper their connection grows, the more Crowder starts to feel like home.

But Mia can’t afford to stay. Not unless she’s willing to give up on her dream—or trade it in for a new one.

ELEMENTARY ROMANTIC CALCULUS is a full-length standalone novel and the sixth book in the Chemistry Lessons series of contemporary romances featuring STEM heroines. Each book in the series focuses on a brand new couple with their own happily ever after and can be read in any order.]]>
328 Susannah Nix Mela 2 3.91 2021 Elementary Romantic Calculus (Chemistry Lessons, #6)
author: Susannah Nix
name: Mela
average rating: 3.91
book published: 2021
rating: 2
read at: 2025/05/03
date added: 2025/05/03
shelves: 2000-today-romance, region-usa, series, young-and-new-adult
review:
Again, it looked like a nice idea for YA romance. Perhaps I am (finally) too old for the genre, I hope not, but I again mostly skimmed the novel.
]]>
A Christmas Carol 232573 It’s Christmas Eve and Ebenezer Scrooge is miserable and unhappy - will he ever get into the Christmas spirit? Set in North Wales, Dickens’s Festive classic tale explores a living, breathing Victorian community.
This adaptation by Alan Harris is a funny immersive family show  lled with music and mystery that whisks away the audience to a dream world where anything can happen and ghosts are just around the corner…]]>
99 Charles Dickens 0553212443 Mela 4
Listening it now, I admit, it is really good. Moreover, it is the story which each should know and remember in own heart. Charles Dickens wrote a perfect, wonderful Christmas story for everyone, children and adults.

Nonetheless, I admit also, that this time, I wasn't gripped as I hoped. Perhaps I knew it too well.

was good and engaging. I loved Andy Minter as Scrooge (by the by, Andy Minter was also Mr. Woodhouse in one of the version of Emma, and he was splendid in there also).]]>
4.18 1843 A Christmas Carol
author: Charles Dickens
name: Mela
average rating: 4.18
book published: 1843
rating: 4
read at: 2017/10/24
date added: 2025/05/03
shelves: psychological-and-philosophical, historical-fiction, public-domain, short-story, region-british, magic-realism, fantasy, audio-book, re-read, historical-period-long-19th-century
review:
Let's be honest, the story is totally classic. I don't believe that there are people in West culture who don't know the story (from book, a movie or at least from other people's summary). First, I watched a movie. Then another movie. I am not even sure if and when I read it in the past.

Listening it now, I admit, it is really good. Moreover, it is the story which each should know and remember in own heart. Charles Dickens wrote a perfect, wonderful Christmas story for everyone, children and adults.

Nonetheless, I admit also, that this time, I wasn't gripped as I hoped. Perhaps I knew it too well.

was good and engaging. I loved Andy Minter as Scrooge (by the by, Andy Minter was also Mr. Woodhouse in one of the version of Emma, and he was splendid in there also).
]]>
<![CDATA[Advanced Physical Chemistry (Chemistry Lessons #3)]]> 38125061
Penny strives to keep things platonic, but when Caleb gives her the kiss of her life, she realizes he wants to be more than just friends. Tired of always being “good little Penny,” she throws caution to the wind and pursues a no-strings fling with the hottie barista. It’s not like they have anything in common beyond scorching physical chemistry, so what does she have to lose?

Only her heart.

Now, this fanfic-reading, plus-size heroine faces an unsolvable problem. What do you do when being apart is unbearable…but being together is impossible?

Advanced Physical Chemistry is the third in a series of standalone rom-coms featuring geeky heroines who work in STEM fields.]]>
276 Susannah Nix Mela 2 3.77 2018 Advanced Physical Chemistry (Chemistry Lessons #3)
author: Susannah Nix
name: Mela
average rating: 3.77
book published: 2018
rating: 2
read at: 2025/05/02
date added: 2025/05/02
shelves: 2000-today-romance, series, young-and-new-adult, region-usa
review:
The idea for YA romance was nice, although there was too little of Caleb - he had potential; Penny was rather flat. I didn't mind that it wasn't original. But all the rest, the background, additional threads, etc., looked like forced additions - I mostly skimmed it.
]]>
The Tall Stranger 49119453 Is her childhood sweetheart who he seems? Barbie France has known Edward Steyne all her life – indeed they were childhood sweethearts. Charming, spirited, debonair, he is the ideal companion. Everyone, especially Edward, assumes they will marry one day. But Barbie is uneasy. Edward sometimes behaves very oddly. There are his sudden, huge winnings on the race course and the strange affair of Aunt Amalie’s emerald ring. And last, but not least, Barbie is puzzled by his reaction to the handsome stranger she meets at a wedding; for suddenly easy-going Edward becomes hostile and unfriendly… In The Tall Stranger, can Barbie discover the truth, and marry the man she loves? Praise for The Tall 'Those who enjoy light novels full of good humour and kindliness will like this one very much indeed' - Scotsman D. E. Stevenson was born in Edinburgh. Her father was a first cousin of Robert Louis Stevenson. She was educated privately and travelled widely in France and Italy with her parents. She married a major in the Highland Light Infantry and moved with the regiment from place to place gaining valuable experience of life and people.]]> 193 D.E. Stevenson Mela 4
There were a bit darker/complex topics too, like [spoilers removed].

It was an enjoyable read that I needed - thank you Rebekah.

[3.5 stars]]]>
4.33 1957 The Tall Stranger
author: D.E. Stevenson
name: Mela
average rating: 4.33
book published: 1957
rating: 4
read at: 2025/04/30
date added: 2025/04/30
shelves: internet-archive, 1945-1990s-romance, 1945-1990s, region-british
review:
A charming romance with a bit of humor, here and there.

There were a bit darker/complex topics too, like [spoilers removed].

It was an enjoyable read that I needed - thank you Rebekah.

[3.5 stars]
]]>
Soumission 23929479
Le talent de l’auteur, sa force visionnaire nous entraînent sur un terrain ambigu et glissant ; son regard sur notre civilisation vieillissante fait coexister dans ce roman les intuitions poétiques, les effets comiques, une mélancolie fataliste.

Ce livre est une saisissante fable politique et morale.

]]>
300 Michel Houellebecq 2081354802 Mela 3
I wouldn't call him a great novelist, but he is an interesting philosopher and sociologist. I am not sure I will read another of his novels, but I would like to read more of his thoughts (perhaps in an essay).]]>
3.71 2015 Soumission
author: Michel Houellebecq
name: Mela
average rating: 3.71
book published: 2015
rating: 3
read at: 2025/04/28
date added: 2025/04/28
shelves: audio-book, zzz-empikgo, read-only-in-polish, psychological-and-philosophical, 2000-today, region-france
review:
Well, Michel Houellebecq has a thing about sex, at least I think so after the second novel.

I wouldn't call him a great novelist, but he is an interesting philosopher and sociologist. I am not sure I will read another of his novels, but I would like to read more of his thoughts (perhaps in an essay).
]]>
We Begin at the End 50279680
Duchess Day Radley is a thirteen-year-old self-proclaimed outlaw. Rules are for other people. She is the fierce protector of her five-year-old brother, Robin, and the parent to her mother, Star, a single mom incapable of taking care of herself, let alone her two kids.

Walk has never left the coastal California town where he and Star grew up. He may have become the chief of police, but he’s still trying to heal the old wound of having given the testimony that sent his best friend, Vincent King, to prison decades before. And he's in overdrive protecting Duchess and her brother.

Now, thirty years later, Vincent is being released. And Duchess and Walk must face the trouble that comes with his return. We Begin at the End is an extraordinary novel about two kinds of families—the ones we are born into and the ones we create.]]>
384 Chris Whitaker 1250759668 Mela 4
The questions Chris Whitaker asked were difficult and worth discussing. And I will discuss them with my local book club.

But it was too sorrowful; the parts that were supposed to be a happy ending were sad, too. I do have a few deeply wrenching novels on my favourite shelf, so it isn't that I avoid such books. Yet, for some reason, this story was too much for me.

Nonetheless, it had an impact on me. And, I will remember Duchess, Robin, Vincent, Star, and Walk for a long time.]]>
4.10 2020 We Begin at the End
author: Chris Whitaker
name: Mela
average rating: 4.10
book published: 2020
rating: 4
read at: 2025/04/28
date added: 2025/04/28
shelves: group-local-book-clubs, read-only-in-polish, psychological-and-philosophical, 1945-1990s, 1945-1990s-romance, 2000-today, 2000-today-romance, crime-horror, region-usa
review:
For sure, it was smoothly written, and I read it fast.

The questions Chris Whitaker asked were difficult and worth discussing. And I will discuss them with my local book club.

But it was too sorrowful; the parts that were supposed to be a happy ending were sad, too. I do have a few deeply wrenching novels on my favourite shelf, so it isn't that I avoid such books. Yet, for some reason, this story was too much for me.

Nonetheless, it had an impact on me. And, I will remember Duchess, Robin, Vincent, Star, and Walk for a long time.
]]>
From Lukov with Love 37683751
After seventeen years—and countless broken bones and broken promises—she knows her window to compete in figure skating is coming to a close.

But when the offer of a lifetime comes in from an arrogant idiot she’s spent the last decade dreaming about pushing in the way of a moving bus, Jasmine might have to reconsider everything.

Including Ivan Lukov.]]>
493 Mariana Zapata Mela 0 The Wall of Winnipeg and Me was very irritating. Clearly Zapata's style of romance based on drama, repetition, a lot about the hero's muscles, etc. is not for me. She may have interesting ideas for romances, but the rest, what you have to get through to get the main plot - is not worth my time.]]> 4.19 2018 From Lukov with Love
author: Mariana Zapata
name: Mela
average rating: 4.19
book published: 2018
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/27
shelves: did-not-finish, audio-book, zzz-empikgo
review:
On impulse I decided to give it a try, even though The Wall of Winnipeg and Me was very irritating. Clearly Zapata's style of romance based on drama, repetition, a lot about the hero's muscles, etc. is not for me. She may have interesting ideas for romances, but the rest, what you have to get through to get the main plot - is not worth my time.
]]>
The Peach Keeper 8546358 New York Times bestselling author of The Girl Who Chased the Moon welcomes you to her newest locale: Walls of Water, North Carolina, where the secrets are thicker than the fog from the town’s famous waterfalls, and the stuff of superstition is just as real as you want it to be.

It’s the dubious distinction of thirty-year-old Willa Jackson to hail from a fine old Southern family of means that met with financial ruin generations ago. The Blue Ridge Madam—built by Willa’s great-great-grandfather during Walls of Water’s heyday, and once the town’s grandest home—has stood for years as a lonely monument to misfortune and scandal. And Willa herself has long strived to build a life beyond the brooding Jackson family shadow. No easy task in a town shaped by years of tradition and the well-marked boundaries of the haves and have-nots.

But Willa has lately learned that an old classmate—socialite do-gooder Paxton Osgood—of the very prominent Osgood family, has restored the Blue Ridge Madam to her former glory, with plans to open a top-flight inn. Maybe, at last, the troubled past can be laid to rest while something new and wonderful rises from its ashes. But what rises instead is a skeleton, found buried beneath the property’s lone peach tree, and certain to drag up dire consequences along with it.

For the bones—those of charismatic traveling salesman Tucker Devlin, who worked his dark charms on Walls of Water seventy-five years ago—are not all that lay hidden out of sight and mind. Long-kept secrets surrounding the troubling remains have also come to light, seemingly heralded by a spate of sudden strange occurrences throughout the town.

Now, thrust together in an unlikely friendship, united by a full-blooded mystery, Willa and Paxton must confront the dangerous passions and tragic betrayals that once bound their families—and uncover truths of the long-dead that have transcended time and defied the grave to touch the hearts and souls of the living.

Resonant with insight into the deep and lasting power of friendship, love, and tradition, The Peach Keeper is a portrait of the unshakable bonds that—in good times and bad, from one generation to the next—endure forever.]]>
273 Sarah Addison Allen 0553807226 Mela 3
For me, nothing "wow". It was supposed to be about the power and importance of female friendship - yet I saw it more as individual stories, and love stories.

[2.5 stars]]]>
3.84 2011 The Peach Keeper
author: Sarah Addison Allen
name: Mela
average rating: 3.84
book published: 2011
rating: 3
read at: 2025/04/25
date added: 2025/04/25
shelves: 1945-1990s, 2000-today, 2000-today-romance, mystery-adventure, read-only-in-polish, region-usa, zzz-local-library
review:
Well written, quick and smooth reading. Quite interesting characters (one in particular), not one-dimensional, although rather schematic.

For me, nothing "wow". It was supposed to be about the power and importance of female friendship - yet I saw it more as individual stories, and love stories.

[2.5 stars]
]]>
Someone Else's Shoes 62971668 A story of mix-ups, mess-ups and making the most of second chances, this is the new novel from #1 New York Times bestselling author Jojo Moyes, author of Me Before You and The Giver of Stars.

Who are you when you are forced to walk in someone else’s shoes?

Nisha Cantor lives the globetrotting life of the seriously wealthy, until her husband announces a divorce and cuts her off. Nisha is determined to hang onto her glamorous life. But in the meantime, she must scramble to cope--she doesn’t even have the shoes she was, until a moment ago, standing in.

That’s because Sam Kemp – in the bleakest point of her life – has accidentally taken Nisha’s gym bag. But Sam hardly has time to worry about a lost gym bag--she’s struggling to keep herself and her family afloat. When she tries on Nisha’s six-inch high Christian Louboutin red crocodile shoes, the resulting jolt of confidence that makes her realize something must change—and that thing is herself.

Full of Jojo Moyes’ signature humor, brilliant storytelling, and warmth, Someone Else’s Shoes is a story about how just one little thing can suddenly change everything.]]>
438 Jojo Moyes 1984879294 Mela 2
The storyline of one of the characters (the concept) was promising, but many parts of it felt dull to me.

As for the second character—she was so arrogant, selfish, self-important, and snobbish for nearly the entire book that I simply couldn't believe in her supposed "transformation." I never felt the slightest sympathy for her—not even once—which apparently others did, and which I’m sure was the author’s intention. What happened to her also felt completely unrealistic to me.

I’m starting to think Jojo Moyes just isn’t the author for me. The first book of hers I read was a historical novel based on real events, and that story was genuinely interesting. I’ve seen Me Before You as a film (and that was enough for me). I’ll probably give her another try at some point, but I have a strong feeling that her style of women’s fiction just isn’t my thing.]]>
3.88 2023 Someone Else's Shoes
author: Jojo Moyes
name: Mela
average rating: 3.88
book published: 2023
rating: 2
read at: 2025/04/25
date added: 2025/04/25
shelves: 2000-today-romance, region-british, zzz-empikgo, read-only-in-polish, audio-book
review:
I only listened to the end because some GR friends praised it, and I was hoping something would eventually "click" or improve.

The storyline of one of the characters (the concept) was promising, but many parts of it felt dull to me.

As for the second character—she was so arrogant, selfish, self-important, and snobbish for nearly the entire book that I simply couldn't believe in her supposed "transformation." I never felt the slightest sympathy for her—not even once—which apparently others did, and which I’m sure was the author’s intention. What happened to her also felt completely unrealistic to me.

I’m starting to think Jojo Moyes just isn’t the author for me. The first book of hers I read was a historical novel based on real events, and that story was genuinely interesting. I’ve seen Me Before You as a film (and that was enough for me). I’ll probably give her another try at some point, but I have a strong feeling that her style of women’s fiction just isn’t my thing.
]]>
Tweet Cute 45045129 Meet Pepper, swim team captain, chronic overachiever, and all-around perfectionist. Her family may be falling apart, but their massive fast-food chain is booming ― mainly thanks to Pepper, who is barely managing to juggle real life while secretly running Big League Burger’s massive Twitter account.

Enter Jack, class clown and constant thorn in Pepper’s side. When he isn’t trying to duck out of his obscenely popular twin’s shadow, he’s busy working in his family’s deli. His relationship with the business that holds his future might be love/hate, but when Big League Burger steals his grandma’s iconic grilled cheese recipe, he’ll do whatever it takes to take them down, one tweet at a time.

All’s fair in love and cheese ― that is, until Pepper and Jack’s spat turns into a viral Twitter war. Little do they know, while they’re publicly duking it out with snarky memes and retweet battles, they’re also falling for each other in real life ― on an anonymous chat app Jack built.

As their relationship deepens and their online shenanigans escalate ― people on the internet are shipping them?? ― their battle gets more and more personal, until even these two rivals can’t ignore they were destined for the most unexpected, awkward, all-the-feels romance that neither of them expected.

A fresh, irresistible rom-com from debut author Emma Lord about the chances we take, the paths life can lead us on, and how love can be found in the opposite place you expected.]]>
368 Emma Lord 1250237327 Mela 0 3.87 2020 Tweet Cute
author: Emma Lord
name: Mela
average rating: 3.87
book published: 2020
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/23
shelves: did-not-finish, zzz-local-library
review:
I knew it was a teenage novel, but some of them are good (also for adults). This one seemed a bit unreal and written (or translated to Polish) artificially. Or I just have no idea what world such young people live in. Nonetheless, I don't want to lose more time with it.
]]>
The Song of Achilles 13537029
Greece in the age of heroes. Patroclus, an awkward young prince, has been exiled to the kingdom of Phthia to be raised in the shadow of King Peleus and his golden son, Achilles. “The best of all the Greeks”—strong, beautiful, and the child of a goddess—Achilles is everything the shamed Patroclus is not. Yet despite their differences, the boys become steadfast companions. Their bond deepens as they grow into young men and become skilled in the arts of war and medicine—much to the displeasure and the fury of Achilles’ mother, Thetis, a cruel sea goddess with a hatred of mortals.

When word comes that Helen of Sparta has been kidnapped, the men of Greece, bound by blood and oath, must lay siege to Troy in her name. Seduced by the promise of a glorious destiny, Achilles joins their cause, and torn between love and fear for his friend, Patroclus follows. Little do they know that the Fates will test them both as never before and demand a terrible sacrifice.

Built on the groundwork of the Iliad, Madeline Miller’s page-turning, profoundly moving, and blisteringly paced retelling of the epic Trojan War marks the launch of a dazzling career.]]>
351 Madeline Miller Mela 4
I’ll definitely make an effort to read her other books.

[4-4.5 stars]]]>
4.31 2011 The Song of Achilles
author: Madeline Miller
name: Mela
average rating: 4.31
book published: 2011
rating: 4
read at: 2025/04/22
date added: 2025/04/22
shelves: authors-to-explore, fantasy, historical-period-antiquity, mystery-adventure, read-only-in-polish, region-greece, romance, young-and-new-adult, zzz-local-library
review:
A superbly written novel—fluid and perfectly paced. I remembered little from Homer, so I might have missed some references, but perhaps that even added to my enjoyment. There wasn’t a major "wow" moment for me, but I admired the author’s historical knowledge and how she grounded this mythological tale in realism without overt modernization (aside from the language, of course).

I’ll definitely make an effort to read her other books.

[4-4.5 stars]
]]>
The Elementary Particles 58314 The Elementary Particles is a frighteningly original novel–part Marguerite Duras and part Bret Easton Ellis-that leaps headlong into the malaise of contemporary existence.

Bruno and Michel are half-brothers abandoned by their mother, an unabashed devotee of the drugged-out free-love world of the sixties. Bruno, the older, has become a raucously promiscuous hedonist himself, while Michel is an emotionally dead molecular biologist wholly immersed in the solitude of his work. Each is ultimately offered a final chance at genuine love, and what unfolds is a brilliantly caustic and unpredictable tale.]]>
272 Michel Houellebecq 0375727019 Mela 3
That said, to me, it felt overintellectualized. I kept losing track of the plot and struggled to connect with the characters. Maybe if I’d read it at my own pace instead of listening to the audiobook, I would’ve understood them better.

And there was way too much—way too much graphic detail—about sex, desire, genitalia, and the like.

[3-3.5 stars]]]>
3.91 1998 The Elementary Particles
author: Michel Houellebecq
name: Mela
average rating: 3.91
book published: 1998
rating: 3
read at: 2025/04/20
date added: 2025/04/22
shelves: audio-book, read-only-in-polish, zzz-empikgo, psychological-and-philosophical, 1945-1990s, 1945-1990s-romance, region-france
review:
An intellectually charged novel. The author clearly knows how to juggle philosophical movements, schools of psychology, and even scientific theories and discoveries. I found many intriguing observations and fascinating tidbits in the book.

That said, to me, it felt overintellectualized. I kept losing track of the plot and struggled to connect with the characters. Maybe if I’d read it at my own pace instead of listening to the audiobook, I would’ve understood them better.

And there was way too much—way too much graphic detail—about sex, desire, genitalia, and the like.

[3-3.5 stars]
]]>
The Flirt (Regency Intrigue) 43989236 To escape her cruel uncle’s guardianship, a debutante agrees to marry a man she despises in this regency romance from a New York Times–bestselling author.
 
After her parents’ death, Elizabeth Markham is reduced to the unspeakable class of poor relation. Forced to live with her cruel, miserly uncle, Elizabeth is forbidden to participate in the season’s festivities. Realizing that marriage is her only escape, she enacts a daring plan to trick her way into the Duke of Dunster’s exclusive house party and snare one of the eligible bachelors.
 
At the party, Elizabeth flirts with all but the arrogant Lord Charles Lufford, though he’s considered to be quite a catch. But when her uncle discovers her deception, it is Charles who comes to her rescue—by announcing their engagement!
 
Meanwhile, Elizabeth has come into an inheritance. And her uncle, along with another sinister party, would rather see her dead than receive it. Even if she begins to see Charles for the kindhearted man he is, will their match be enough to save her?
 
A Regency Intrigue novel from Marion Chesney, writing as M.C. Beaton, New York Times–bestselling author of the popular Hamish Macbeth and Agatha Raisin series, both of which have been adapted for TV by the BBC and PBS.]]>
184 Marion Chesney 0795320124 Mela 3
[2.5 stars]]]>
3.90 1985 The Flirt (Regency Intrigue)
author: Marion Chesney
name: Mela
average rating: 3.90
book published: 1985
rating: 3
read at: 2025/04/18
date added: 2025/04/21
shelves: historical-period-long-19th-century, historical-romance, region-british
review:
This Cinderella-esque twist was quite intriguing. It was also an opportunity to glimpse a slightly different, deeper side of the era and social class. However, the protagonist's constant shifting between hatred (anger, disdain) and love (compassion, tenderness) was incredibly irritating. Generally, I'm used to Chesney's narrative pace—sometimes I even appreciate it as a fast-paced story—but this time, it came off a bit too cartoonish.

[2.5 stars]
]]>
Nim dojrzeją maliny 70198160
Mijka właśnie się zaręczyła, ale wciąż kocha innego mężczyznę. Lilka pragnie spędzić na ukraińskiej wsi ostatnie lato przed wyjazdem na drugi koniec świata. Marta niebawem urodzi bliźniaki i nie chce zdradzić, kto jest ojcem. Wszystkie trzy pragną schronić się przed światem. Marzą o tym, by wziąć oddech przed kolejnym skokiem na głęboką wodę życia.

Azyl znajdują w swoim raju z dzieciństwa – u babki Teodory. W jej domu, ukrytym w gąszczu krzewów, wśród śpiewu ptaków i zapachu owocujących drzew, czas na chwilę się zatrzymuje. Kobiety mogą na nowo odkryć siebie i łączące je więzi. Ale życie nie pozwala o sobie zapomnieć i coraz gwałtowniej wdziera się do ich niemal magicznego schronienia. Nie da się przed nim uciec, ale teraz już można stawić mu czoła.

Nim dojrzeją maliny niesie nadzieję wszystkim, którzy marzą o szczęśliwym miejscu na ziemi. To opowieść o tym, że czasem trzeba się zatrzymać, aby odnaleźć w sobie siłę.

Eugenia Kuzniecowa to jeden z najważniejszych młodych głosów w literaturze ukraińskiej. Nim dojrzeją maliny jest debiutem prozatorskim, napisanym w niezwykłej poetyce, którą można nazwać „magizmem realistycznym”. Za tę powieść autorka otrzymała wyróżnienie Europejskiej Nagrody Literackiej.]]>
304 Yevhenia Kuznetsova Mela 5
The protagonists may not have been entirely typical (who really gets to live so freely and have such control over their time?), but the narrative style, the challenges they faced, and the way their stories were told made for a thoughtful and enjoyable read.

I truly hope Kuznetsova keeps writing. I miss this kind of voice—tender, subtly ironic, and perceptive about both the world and the female experience.

[4.5 stars]]]>
3.70 2021 Nim dojrzeją maliny
author: Yevhenia Kuznetsova
name: Mela
average rating: 3.70
book published: 2021
rating: 5
read at: 2025/04/16
date added: 2025/04/21
shelves: 2000-today, 2000-today-romance, humor, read-only-in-polish, zzz-local-library, region-southeast-europe
review:
A wonderful story. An impressive debut. A novel about family, women, motherhood, and the choices we make. All set against the charming backdrop of nature—ever-present, yet never overbearing.

The protagonists may not have been entirely typical (who really gets to live so freely and have such control over their time?), but the narrative style, the challenges they faced, and the way their stories were told made for a thoughtful and enjoyable read.

I truly hope Kuznetsova keeps writing. I miss this kind of voice—tender, subtly ironic, and perceptive about both the world and the female experience.

[4.5 stars]
]]>
Heart Songs and Other Stories 28003 The Shipping News, E. Annie Proulx was already producing some of the finest short fiction in the country. Here are her collected stories, including two new works never before anthologized.

These stories reverberate with rural tradition, the rites of nature, and the rituals of small-town life. The country is blue-collar New England; the characters are native families and the dispossessed working class, whose heritage is challenged by the neorural bourgeoisie from the city; and the themes are as elemental as the landscape: revenge, malice, greed, passion. Told with skill and profundity and crafted by a master storyteller, these are lean, tough tales of an extraordinary place and its people.

]]>
203 Annie Proulx 0020360754 Mela 0 to-read, zzz-legimi-depozyt 3.97 1988 Heart Songs and Other Stories
author: Annie Proulx
name: Mela
average rating: 3.97
book published: 1988
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/16
shelves: to-read, zzz-legimi-depozyt
review:

]]>
The Loving Spirit 468300
Janet's loving spirit - the passionate yearning for adventure and for love - is passed down to her son, and through him to his children's children. As generations of the family struggle against hardship and loss, their intricately plotted history is set against the greater backdrop of war and social change in Britain.]]>
416 Daphne du Maurier 1844080935 Mela 3
Most of the characters seemed undeveloped to me, a bit "stretched" for the sake of the story.

I would not recommend it as a first introduction to the author's books, but as a fan of hers, I was able to get some pleasure.]]>
3.71 1931 The Loving Spirit
author: Daphne du Maurier
name: Mela
average rating: 3.71
book published: 1931
rating: 3
read at: 2025/04/14
date added: 2025/04/14
shelves: group-virago-modern-classic, read-only-in-polish, zzz-local-library, historical-fiction, historical-period-1914-1945, historical-period-long-19th-century, historical-romance, region-british
review:
I read this family saga smoothly and swiftly. Obviously, it wasn't one of du Maurier's best novels. Yet, as a debut, it wasn't bad.

Most of the characters seemed undeveloped to me, a bit "stretched" for the sake of the story.

I would not recommend it as a first introduction to the author's books, but as a fan of hers, I was able to get some pleasure.
]]>
<![CDATA[The Widows of Eastwick (Eastwick #2)]]> 2833745 The Witches of Eastwick. The three divorcées—Alexandra, Jane, and Sukie—have left town, remarried, and become widows. They cope with their grief and solitude as widows do: they travel the world, to such foreign lands as Canada, Egypt, and China, and renew old acquaintance. Why not, Sukie and Jane ask Alexandra, go back to Eastwick for the summer? The old Rhode Island seaside town, where they indulged in wicked mischief under the influence of the diabolical Darryl Van Horne, is still magical for them. Now Darryl is gone, and their lovers of the time have aged or died, but enchantment remains in the familiar streets and scenery of the village, where they enjoyed their lusty primes as free and empowered women. And, among the local citizenry, there are still those who remember them, and wish them ill. How they cope with the lingering traces of their evil deeds, the shocks of a mysterious counterspell, and the advancing inroads of old age, form the burden of Updike’s delightful, ominous sequel.]]> 308 John Updike 0307269604 Mela 0 to-read, zzz-local-library 2.96 2008 The Widows of Eastwick (Eastwick #2)
author: John Updike
name: Mela
average rating: 2.96
book published: 2008
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/12
shelves: to-read, zzz-local-library
review:

]]>
<![CDATA[Nocturnes: Five Stories of Music and Nightfall]]> 4772110
A once-popular singer, desperate to make a comeback, turning from the one certainty in his life . . . A man whose unerring taste in music is the only thing his closest friends value in him . . . A struggling singer-songwriter unwittingly involved in the failing marriage of a couple he’s only just met . . . A gifted, underappreciated jazz musician who lets himself believe that plastic surgery will help his career . . . A young cellist whose tutor promises to “unwrap” his talent . . .

Passion or necessity—or the often uneasy combination of the two—determines the place of music in each of these lives. And, in one way or another, music delivers each of them to a moment of reckoning: sometimes comic, sometimes tragic, sometimes just eluding their grasp.

An exploration of love, need, and the ineluctable force of the past, Nocturnes reveals these individuals to us with extraordinary precision and subtlety, and with the arresting psychological and emotional detail that has marked all of Kazuo Ishiguro’s acclaimed works of fiction.]]>
221 Kazuo Ishiguro 0307397874 Mela 2
These stories were well-written, too, but I didn't connect with them at all. I am afraid I didn't get the point of any of them. To me, a short story has to be not only well-constructed, but also it has to, after finishing, make me think "hmm" at least. I didn't get it from this collection. ]]>
3.52 2009 Nocturnes: Five Stories of Music and Nightfall
author: Kazuo Ishiguro
name: Mela
average rating: 3.52
book published: 2009
rating: 2
read at: 2025/04/11
date added: 2025/04/11
shelves: group-catching-up-on-classic-bingo, zzz-local-library, 1945-1990s, 1945-1990s-romance, read-only-in-polish, region-british, region-italy, short-story
review:
I have read four novels by Kazuo Ishiguro so far. Two brilliant and two really good.

These stories were well-written, too, but I didn't connect with them at all. I am afraid I didn't get the point of any of them. To me, a short story has to be not only well-constructed, but also it has to, after finishing, make me think "hmm" at least. I didn't get it from this collection.
]]>
<![CDATA[A Kiss at Midnight (Fairy Tales, #1)]]> 6957682
Forced by her stepmother to attend a ball, Kate meets a prince... and decides he's anything but charming. A clash of wits and wills ensues, but they both know their irresistible attraction will lead nowhere. For Gabriel is promised to another woman—a princess whose hand in marriage will fulfill his ruthless ambitions.

Gabriel likes his fiancee, which is a welcome turn of events, but he doesn't love her. Obviously, he should be wooing his bride-to-be, not the witty, impoverished beauty who refuses to fawn over him.

Godmothers and glass slippers notwithstanding, this is one fairy tale in which destiny conspires to destroy any chance that Kate and Gabriel might have a happily ever after.

Unless a prince throws away everything that makes him noble...

Unless a dowry of an unruly heart trumps a fortune...

Unless one kiss at the stroke of midnight changes everything.]]>
384 Eloisa James 0061626848 Mela 3
This kind of romance isn't as enjoyable to me as they were a few years ago. But I have a weakness for retellings of fairy tales and I had fun reading this one.]]>
3.78 2010 A Kiss at Midnight (Fairy Tales, #1)
author: Eloisa James
name: Mela
average rating: 3.78
book published: 2010
rating: 3
read at: 2025/04/09
date added: 2025/04/09
shelves: fairy-tales, historical-period-long-19th-century, historical-romance, region-british, series
review:
If you are considering reading it, keep in mind, as the author herself points out, this was more of a fairy tale than a historical romance. Yes, there was no magic, and Eloisa James tried to place the plot in the Regency era, but a few crucial points weren't historically correct.

This kind of romance isn't as enjoyable to me as they were a few years ago. But I have a weakness for retellings of fairy tales and I had fun reading this one.
]]>
Love and Summer 6450817
It’s summer and nothing much is happening in Rathmoye. So it doesn’t go unnoticed when a dark-haired stranger appears on his bicycle and begins photographing the mourners at Mrs. Connulty’s funeral. Florian Kilderry couldn’t know that the Connultys are said to own half the town: he has only come to Rathmoye to photograph the scorched remains of its burnt-out cinema.

A few miles out in the country, Dillahan, a farmer and a decent man, has married again: Ellie is the young convent girl who came to work for him when he was widowed. Ellie leads a quiet, routine life, often alone while Dillahan runs the farm.

Florian is planning to leave Ireland and start over. Ellie is settled in her new role as Dillahan’s wife. But Florian’s visit to Rathmoye introduces him to Ellie, and a dangerously reckless attachment begins.

In a characteristically masterly way Trevor evokes the passions and frustrations felt by Ellie and Florian, and by the people of a small Irish town during one long summer.]]>
224 William Trevor 0670021237 Mela 4
Simply a story about people and their choices. About a simple life that, nonetheless, consists of personal tragedies and sacrifices—interwoven with moments of happiness and joy, though often fleeting and grasped only for an instant.]]>
3.57 2009 Love and Summer
author: William Trevor
name: Mela
average rating: 3.57
book published: 2009
rating: 4
read at: 2025/04/07
date added: 2025/04/07
shelves: read-only-in-polish, zzz-local-library, group-catching-up-on-classic-bingo, 1945-1990s, 1945-1990s-romance, region-ireland
review:
Subtle prose—melancholic, but not melodramatic. Not much seemed to happen, yet it was a quick and enjoyable read.

Simply a story about people and their choices. About a simple life that, nonetheless, consists of personal tragedies and sacrifices—interwoven with moments of happiness and joy, though often fleeting and grasped only for an instant.
]]>
A History of Bombing 335802 224 Sven Lindqvist 1565848160 Mela 5
Amid all this are questions about the impact on history, societies, and individual people—soldiers, activists, the bombed, and even those seemingly unconnected to the crimes.

A frustrating read, because what happened was horrific and often predictable. It also made me angry, because “history keeps repeating itself.” The same excuses, the same problems, and the same clumsy (or deliberately harmful) solutions.]]>
4.38 1999 A History of Bombing
author: Sven Lindqvist
name: Mela
average rating: 4.38
book published: 1999
rating: 5
read at: 2025/04/07
date added: 2025/04/07
shelves: audio-book, read-only-in-polish, zzz-empikgo, psychological-and-philosophical, 1945-1990s, greatly-touching, historical-period-1914-1945, historical-period-long-19th-century, history, non-fiction, region-many-countries, reportage
review:
An in-depth analysis of the history of bombing—from stories and sci-fi novels, through the concepts and development of bombs (and their delivery systems), to the bombings themselves—both the well-known and the lesser-known ones.

Amid all this are questions about the impact on history, societies, and individual people—soldiers, activists, the bombed, and even those seemingly unconnected to the crimes.

A frustrating read, because what happened was horrific and often predictable. It also made me angry, because “history keeps repeating itself.” The same excuses, the same problems, and the same clumsy (or deliberately harmful) solutions.
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Alias Grace 72579
An up-and-coming expert in the burgeoning field of mental illness is engaged by a group of reformers and spiritualists who seek a pardon for Grace. He listens to her story while bringing her closer and closer to the day she cannot remember. What will he find in attempting to unlock her memories?

Captivating and disturbing, Alias Grace showcases best-selling, Booker Prize-winning author Margaret Atwood at the peak of her powers.]]>
468 Margaret Atwood 0385475713 Mela 0 watched-not-read 4.08 1996 Alias Grace
author: Margaret Atwood
name: Mela
average rating: 4.08
book published: 1996
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/05
shelves: watched-not-read
review:

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Mr Skeffington 1035708 233 Elizabeth von Arnim 1853816779 Mela 4
It was a study of a beautiful (and spoilt) woman's aging. The thread wasn't new, I had read a few other novels on such topics. Elizabeth von Arnim created a believable character. There was not much plot, but Fanny's journey through a "middle-age crisis" was fascinating to watch.]]>
3.86 1940 Mr Skeffington
author: Elizabeth von Arnim
name: Mela
average rating: 3.86
book published: 1940
rating: 4
read at: 2025/04/05
date added: 2025/04/05
shelves: group-virago-modern-classic, internet-archive, historical-fiction, historical-period-1914-1945, historical-romance, region-british
review:
In the beginning, I had difficulties keeping my interest. But at some point, I got gripped and stayed so, and the ending was surprising.

It was a study of a beautiful (and spoilt) woman's aging. The thread wasn't new, I had read a few other novels on such topics. Elizabeth von Arnim created a believable character. There was not much plot, but Fanny's journey through a "middle-age crisis" was fascinating to watch.
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The Witches of Eastwick 217518 307 John Updike 0449912108 Mela 0 to-read, zzz-local-library 3.26 1984 The Witches of Eastwick
author: John Updike
name: Mela
average rating: 3.26
book published: 1984
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/04
shelves: to-read, zzz-local-library
review:

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Lantana Lane 7133774 266 Eleanor Dark 0860685772 Mela 4
The people and community portrayed in the book were endearing and brought me joy while offering glimpses into the lives of small farmers in the still relatively wild landscapes of Australia.

Some chapters/stories completely drew me in, while others felt a bit dull. Nonetheless, the writing style and the author’s approach to her characters convinced me that I must read her famous trilogy, The Timeless Land—or at least give the first book a try.]]>
3.75 1959 Lantana Lane
author: Eleanor Dark
name: Mela
average rating: 3.75
book published: 1959
rating: 4
read at: 2025/04/02
date added: 2025/04/02
shelves: group-virago-modern-classic, internet-archive, 1945-1990s, 1945-1990s-romance, region-australia, short-story
review:
This felt more like a collection of short stories than a novel.

The people and community portrayed in the book were endearing and brought me joy while offering glimpses into the lives of small farmers in the still relatively wild landscapes of Australia.

Some chapters/stories completely drew me in, while others felt a bit dull. Nonetheless, the writing style and the author’s approach to her characters convinced me that I must read her famous trilogy, The Timeless Land—or at least give the first book a try.
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The Timeless Land 1835267 554 Eleanor Dark 0006160166 Mela 0 to-read, internet-archive 3.97 1941 The Timeless Land
author: Eleanor Dark
name: Mela
average rating: 3.97
book published: 1941
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/01
shelves: to-read, internet-archive
review:

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<![CDATA[Auntie Mame: An Irreverent Escapade (Auntie Mame, #1)]]> 187060 Auntie Mame sold over two million copies and stayed put on the New York Times bestseller list for 112 weeks. It was made into a play, a Broadway as well as a Hollywood musical, and a fabulous movie starring Rosalind Russell. Since then, Mame has taken her rightful place in the pantheon of Great and Important People as the world's most beloved, madcap, devastatingly sophisticated, and glamorous aunt. She is impossible to resist, and this hilarious story of an orphaned ten-year-old boy sent to live with his aunt is as delicious a read in the twenty-first century as it was in the 1950s.]]> 299 Patrick Dennis 0767908198 Mela 0 to-read, internet-archive 4.11 1955 Auntie Mame: An Irreverent Escapade (Auntie Mame, #1)
author: Patrick Dennis
name: Mela
average rating: 4.11
book published: 1955
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/01
shelves: to-read, internet-archive
review:

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Permanent Record 46223297
In 2013, twenty-nine-year-old Edward Snowden shocked the world when he broke with the American intelligence establishment and revealed that the United States government was secretly pursuing the means to collect every single phone call, text message, and email. The result would be an unprecedented system of mass surveillance with the ability to pry into the private lives of every person on earth. Six years later, Snowden reveals for the very first time how he helped to build this system and why he was moved to expose it.

Spanning the bucolic Beltway suburbs of his childhood and the clandestine CIA and NSA postings of his adulthood, Permanent Record is the extraordinary account of a bright young man who grew up online—a man who became a spy, a whistleblower, and, in exile, the Internet’s conscience. Written with wit, grace, passion, and an unflinching candor, Permanent Record is a crucial memoir of our digital age and destined to be a classic.]]>
339 Edward Snowden 1250237238 Mela 0 to-read 4.29 2019 Permanent Record
author: Edward Snowden
name: Mela
average rating: 4.29
book published: 2019
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/31
shelves: to-read
review:

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Widziałam. Opowieści wojenne 22025640 Mijają lata i blakną wspomnienia. Jednak świadectwo rzeczywistości piekła jest tak samo palące. Szczególnie, gdy ma się świadomość, że obecnie na świecie toczy się ponad trzydzieści wojen i konfliktów zbrojnych. Piekło ma się dobrze. Zmieniają się tylko jego granice.]]> 250 Maria Wiernikowska 8363014842 Mela 0 to-read 2.80 2014 Widziałam. Opowieści wojenne
author: Maria Wiernikowska
name: Mela
average rating: 2.80
book published: 2014
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/31
shelves: to-read
review:

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