The Wilderness
By Angela Flournoy
2.75⭐I had high hopes for this one, but it didn’t quite hit the mark. While I loved the beautiful exploration of lifelong Black female friendships and was highly invested in January and the sisters, the execution fell short. The jumping timelines were incredibly confusing, and the pacing suffered from bloated, unnecessary scenes (like the earthquake dinner). I nearly DNF’d but managed to push through by switching to the audiobook. Glad I finished, but the confusing structure held it back.
Good Hair Days
By Grace Helena Walz
3.75⭐ If you love Sweet Magnolias, Steel Magnolias and Hart of Dixie, this book is for you. I adored the small-town setting, the family dynamics, and the 2nd chance romance between Georgia and Eddie. The fun banter from the aunts and the Silver Ladies made it highly entertaining. It lost a star for me because the characters’ family secrets were dragged out too long, and the sisters’ constant self-blame got a bit repetitive. But once the truth came out, the pacing picked up beautifully. Warning: The ending absolutely gutted me. Despite the heartbreak, I completely fell in love with this town and its unforgettable characters.
Brighter Than Before
By Courtney Walsh
4.50⭐ I listened to the audiobook version and immediately wanted to buy the physical copy. I absolutely loved the narration, but the story is so incredible that I know I will enjoy reading it on the page even more. I love stories focused on characters over 40, and Claire’s journey of rebranding her life is beautiful. I especially appreciated that the plot focuses on more than just romance; it is truly about self-discovery, building real friendships, and finding a strong support system. As an older reader, I deeply related to this. Stepping out of your comfort zone and defying expectations is terrifying and takes immense strength. This book is funny, empowering, emotional, and heartwarming. I highly recommend it to everyone!
Bitter Sweet
By Rhonda McKnight
5⭐ What a beautiful story of multi-generational determination and survival! The complicated sister dynamic adds so much complexity to the book. Mariah definitely pissed me off with her hateful, selfish attitude at first, but watching her heal and change through therapy was incredibly beautiful to witness.
As a Greenville native, I loved how the story moved through the South Carolina Upstate. From Charleston and Georgetown to Greenville, Rhonda painted a picture-perfect background that truly drew me in.
What beautiful grace shown by the family elders, they chose encouragement over judgment, especially concerning Tabitha’s situation. Witnessing them welcome her back after so many years was incredibly moving, as was the heartwarming reception Mariah and Sabrina received from their grandmother. I am truly in awe of this story. It is a powerful tale that will stay with me for years to come.
I, Medusa
By Ayana Gray
4⭐ I thoroughly enjoyed this retelling. Ayana brilliantly highlights the injustice faced by Medusa and the other women. Living in a world where you are completely powerless, unable to escape your circumstances without relying on a man is infuriating. Seeing these characters claim their own agency was deeply empowering. What was originally intended as a punishing curse ultimately became the very freedom they needed to build lives of their own, and give them their very own power.
