"OPEN, SHUT: A Short Story" by Nonnie Jules








"OPEN, SHUT: A Short Story" by Nonnie Jules inspired me with proof that love can alter a person's beliefs. Change can happen no matter how long it takes. When a loved one leaves us, they aren't truly gone. A relatable, emotional, and touching story that made me cry and left me with a sense of calm fulfillment, it was a worth-while journey.



'Outshine: An Ovarian Cancer Memoir' by Karen Ingalls








Outshine: An Ovarian Cancer Memoir by Karen Ingalls looks at her personal experience with cancer. No person will react to a traumatic event exactly as another dealing with the same problem. I find every individual's story of strength and courage inspiring. Ms. Ingalls gave a valid account of her fears and worries and positive steps she followed to keep her chin up. She was also brave enough to show her weaknesses, vulnerabilities, and flaws of character at the same time. Outshine was a good read with a myriad of emotions.



IF YOU LOVE ME, I'M YOURS by Lizzie Chantree












IF YOU LOVE ME, I'M YOURS: The cover of this book is adorable. I love it. The premise of the story grabbed my attention; 'what a great idea,' I thought; I hadn't read anything similar. The characters of Maud and Dot are likable, interesting, and unique, and they have plenty of conflicts. When Maud pulls off stunts to gain admirers for her art because she's not confident in her abilities, some comical things happen. This book left me torn. I couldn't decide if I was reading a romance or a story about a girl finding her power. Maud grew into her talent and took control of her life, and that satisfied. In the romance category, I yearned for more because the potential was there. The few moments Maud and Nate spent together had latent chemistry that if tapped into could have set the pages on fire. The style of telling versus showing isn't my preference when reading, but the way Nate and Maud ended their story was a true "awe" sweet moment, and Lizzie Chantree sewed up the theme for 'If You Love Me, I'm Yours.'