Home Front by Kristin HannahWow! I am always amazed by Kristin Hannah’s writing. This was phenomenal!If you want to step into the shoes of a soldier that has to leave her family behind, meet Jolene Zarkades. She’s a mom, a wife, and a soldier.Michael and Jolene are struggling with their relationship and all the things of everyday life when Jolene gets deployment orders. While Jolene goes to war, Michael has his own battles at home, learning how to be a shingle parent while stepping into Jolene’s role.Jolene struggles to think about her family and fulfill her duty. She paints a glamorous story of life on the front line to protect her family.War changes Jolene in more ways than any of them can anticipate. They have to find a new way to exit as a family going forward.This is a moving look at marriage and the toll that war takes on a family.The story is full of loss, love, life, heroism, honor, and hope.Kristin Hannah did a brilliant job of developing Jolene’s character. You will feel her anger, frustration, and grief as a soldier, mother, wife, and friend. 5+/5⭐

The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian SelznickImagine being left alone, as a child, to exist among the innerworkings of the clocks in the train station. Hugo’s story is brilliant!He’s an orphan, a clock keeper, and a genius. He survives by stealing essentials, like food. Friends emerge when he gets caught stealing.A cryptic message from his father sends him in search of answers.A drawing, a special notebook, a key, and a mechanical man take you on an adventure with Hugo. This book looks huge, but it’s full of artwork! Phenomenal drawings! A well deserved Caldecott medal winner! This is geared for children ages 8-11.I really enjoyed this one, and ordered a copy for myself. 5/5⭐

Springtime Sunshine by Debbie Macomber

Grits & Grievances by Rachel Hanna

Necessary Lies by Diane Chamberlain

We All Live Here by Jojo Moyes

Wherever the Wind Takes Us by Kelly Harms

Long Way Gone by Charles Martin

Some Choose Darkness by Charlie Donlea

Indigo Isle by T.I. Lowe

Variation by Rebecca Yarros

The Happy Ever After Playlist by Abby Jimenez