The Bookish Ashley

Just a Fika: Coffee, Connection, and a Matchmaking Ghost Grandmother by Beck Erixson – A Heartwarming Blend of Family, Romance, and the Supernatural

Just a Fika: Coffee, Connection, and a Matchmaking Ghost Grandmother by Beck Erixson is a delightful and heartwarming story that skillfully combines elements of family, romance, and the supernatural. This enchanting tale explores the importance of family connections, even after death, and the unexpected ways in which love can enter our lives.

The story follows Ingrid Ekstrom, a genealogist from Brooklyn, who finds herself accepting an unusual request from her estranged family: to become the caretaker of their ancestral home in the sleepy town of Aegir Haven. As Ingrid begins her journey of discovery, she not only unravels the secrets of the house’s past but also encounters her long-deceased grandmother, Mormor, who inexplicably appears in the physical realm.

One of the book’s greatest strengths is its well-developed and relatable characters. Ingrid is a strong and determined protagonist, searching for stronger family connections and a place to belong. The author beautifully portrays her internal struggle as she finds herself torn between the affections of a young real estate attorney and a charming bluegrass musician. Ingrid’s longing for familial love and the dilemma she faces when confronted with Mormor’s matchmaking efforts create a compelling emotional arc.

Beck Erixson’s writing style is engaging and evocative, effortlessly immersing the reader in the sleepy Jersey Shore town of Aegir Haven. The atmospheric descriptions of the historic house and its surroundings add depth and richness to the story, making the setting feel almost like a character in its own right. Erixson’s seamless blending of lore, legends, and real-life elements adds a touch of enchantment to the narrative, keeping the reader guessing about the true nature of Mormor’s fantastical family sagas.

While the story progresses at a steady pace, there are moments when the plot feels predictable, and some of the twists and turns may be anticipated by astute readers. However, Erixson’s skillful storytelling and the genuine warmth infused into the relationships between characters more than make up for any predictable elements.

Overall, Just a Fika is a captivating read that will appeal to fans of contemporary romance with a touch of the supernatural. It serves as a reminder of the enduring power of family connections and the magic that can be found in unexpected places. If you’re looking for a heartwarming and enchanting story to curl up with, this book is a perfect choice.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐/5

Note: I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

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Most Hated by Kara Alloway

In a world where reality TV reigns supreme, Kara Alloway takes readers on a captivating journey in “Most Hated,” where three women find themselves entangled in a web of ambition, love, and the harsh reality of the entertainment industry. Through this gripping tale, Alloway explores themes of internalized misogyny and the complex dynamics between women, offering a thought-provoking read that will resonate with anyone who has experienced the sting of betrayal or mistreatment.

The story revolves around Zoe, a driven producer of the hit docu-soap “Talk of the Town,” who will stop at nothing to make her show the most dramatic, addictive, and highest-rated on television. Dahlia, a woman confident in her husband’s unwavering love, sees the show as her chance for a career of her own. However, as the cameras roll, her once-certain world starts to crumble. And then there’s Sabrina, known as “The Countess of Controversy,” whose seemingly perfect life falls apart, leading her to join the show as a means to regain control. But the pressures of the industry, her past relationship, and her own expectations threaten to unravel her life once again.

Alloway expertly weaves together these three women’s stories, highlighting the complexities of their relationships, both on and off the screen. Through their experiences, she delves into the pervasive issue of internalized misogyny and the struggles women face when relating to one another. The author’s personal insights on how sociological influences shape female interactions add depth and authenticity to the narrative.

“Most Hated” cleverly uses the backdrop of a reality TV show to explore these themes, drawing parallels to real-life situations that captivate public attention. Alloway astutely reflects on the fascination society has with women’s interactions, exemplified by shows like “Vanderpump Rules” and headline-grabbing incidents such as “Scandoval” or the cheating scandals on the “Housewives” franchises. She highlights the underlying implications of these interactions, emphasizing their relatability and the universal struggles that women face in their relationships with one another.

The strength of this novel lies in the authenticity of its characters and their emotional journeys. As the women navigate the cutthroat world of reality TV, their flaws and vulnerabilities are laid bare, making them relatable and engrossing. Alloway’s writing style is engaging, maintaining a balance between light-heartedness and thoughtfulness, ensuring that readers remain hooked from start to finish.

Overall, “Most Hated” is a captivating read that skillfully combines the allure of reality TV with a thought-provoking exploration of internalized misogyny and the complex dynamics between women. Kara Alloway’s insightful storytelling and relatable characters make this book an enjoyable and engaging experience. Whether you are a fan of reality TV or simply interested in exploring the intricacies of female relationships, “Most Hated” is a must-read that will leave you contemplating the power dynamics that exist both on and off the screen.

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5

Note: I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.