This novel immediately appealed to me simply because of its setting in Hannibal, Missouri.  We took a trip to Hannibal when I was a young girl and I always remember that trip fondly.  The author did a great job of detailing the city itself and the history behind the area.  

I really wanted to love this book, but I struggled to become engaged with the characters and the various plot lines.  I felt that about half way through the book, the main character of Laura Brooks had a change of heart in her plans but I couldn't really attribute that change to any particular event.  The ending wasn't satisfying to me.  I did feel that the author portrayed a vivid picture of life that many struggle with around our state.  

I enjoyed the segments between chapters that tied in information about Mark Twain and the Hannibal area.  I also enjoyed the character of Bobby and his journey through the contest to be named the local Tom Sawyer.  

I received this book courtesy of Center Street through Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.  

The circus always holds a unique allure for me.  I'm not sure if it is the bright colored tent, the beautiful artistry of the trapeze or highwire acts or the daring of the lion tamer, but I'm always drawn in by a novel featuring the timeless circus scene.  

In The Life She Was Given, we meet Lilly Blackwood, who must live her life within the confines of her attic room.  Her mother tells her that this is for her own safety since her appearance would scare anyone she met.  In 1931, Lilly is sold to a traveling circus and suffers a different type of cruelty at the hands of her new owner. Lilly changes and evolves during her years with the circus, while the reader has a front row seat to all the spectacle.

We also meet Julia who has just inherited Blackwood Manor from her mother.  Unfortunately, Julia's childhood memories are not happy ones, but full of rules, pain and unhappiness.  As she returns to Blackwood Manor, she uncovers family secrets and tries to delve deeper into the mystery surrounding her family.  

This was a five star read for me.  I was completely immersed in the book and found I was thinking about the characters long after the book was over.  

I received this book courtesy of Kensington Publishing Group in exchange for an honest review.  

    

I'm always drawn in by stories that center around a home and detail the lives of past and present residents, bringing their stories together.  If those are your favorite kinds of books too, then I would highly recommend picking up The Wildling Sisters by Eve Chase.  

Applecote Manor is at the heart of both stories.  In 1959, sisters Flora, Pam, Margot and Dot, nicknamed the Wildlings, spend a life changing summer with their Aunt Sybil and Uncle Perry.  In present day, Jess and Will are just moving into Applecote Manor in hopes of bringing their blended family together, particularly Will's teenage daughter Bella.  

Both stories are equally compelling, but being a fan of historical fiction, I was more drawn into the drama surrounding the Wildling Sisters.  There are several surprises throughout their narrative and I liked how the author resolved both stories in the end. 

I received this book courtesy of Penguin Group Putnam through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.  

This book is just the absolute best summer read.  I always enjoy Lisa and Francesca's commentary on life.  There are laugh out loud moments along with insightful passages and heartwarming stories.  My favorite chapter was Work Zoned.  I could completely relate to Lisa's feelings about driving on the interstate and had to share this passage with my family.  I think this mother/daughter team do a perfect job of providing an entertaining read that appeals to a broad audience.  I promise you will be laughing, shaking your head in agreement and wanting to invite Lisa and Francesca to your next girl's night out.  

I received this book courtesy of St. Martin's Press through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.  Thank you to St. Martin's Press for also providing a copy of the book to giveaway to my followers.  Please check out our Facebook page for details on the giveaway.