Tidewater Inn

Currently reading: "Tidewater Inn" by Colleen Coble

BookSneeze.com: They send me free books, asking only that I review them on my blog and share my opinions on them. Easy enough trade, even if writing reviews isn't quite my strong point! First up: Tidewater Inn by Colleen Coble.

***

Tidewater Inn begins with historic home renovator Libby Holladay learning that she has just inherited a gorgeous historic inn—and a family she never knew she had. Unfortunately, her newfound siblings are less than welcoming, convinced that she is there for the money and nothing more. Adding to her distress is the fact that she has just witnessed her best friend being kidnapped, and is now under suspicion for committing the crime herself.

Generally speaking, I enjoy Colleen Coble’s books (mystery and suspense, laced with a little bit of romance), so I had hoped that this one would be no exception. Unfortunately, it didn’t quite hit home with me. While I liked the premise of the story, I found that most of the plot felt forced and unrealistic. The first chapter was awkward—so much happened right off the bat with little to no character development, so it made it a little difficult to connect. Much of the story continued in the same manner. The constant suspicion and accusations against Libby became a bit redundant after awhile, and important information that, realistically, would have been presented upfront was withheld until the very end (which I understand in wanting to keep the reader in suspense, but like I said, the way it was done simply felt forced).

If you’re looking to read anything by Coble (which I do recommend!), you might try starting with some of her other books instead. This one isn’t terrible, but it’s certainly not her best!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

I know, I know...

Listening to: "Good Time" by Owl City & Carly Rae Jepsen

(I can't wait for his new album to come out in couple of months! His music never fails to make me happy. This song is no exception. Perfect summer song.)

I know. I've already managed to mess up my "20 Day Challenge," after only 2 days. In my defense, I've actually been too busy to blog over the past few days. Since living life is more fun than writing about it (well, usually)...real life won. There's also the minor detail of figuring out how the heck to answer the next question so 1) it actually makes sense and 2) I'm not writing a book. Ha! Anyway, I'm planning to get back on board with all that within the next day or so, because I am determined to answer all 20 questions!

In other news, I got to see Jenny & Tyler and The Vespers at a cool coffeehouse called The Camp House in downtown Chattanooga last Friday. So good. I like their recorded music a lot, but if you ever get the chance to see either of them live, do it. They are both so talented!

via my Instagram. Follow me if you like (@britmo)!

Anyway, that's all I have for right now. Check back soon for my answer to question #3!

20 Day Challenge

Listening to: "All That You Are" by the Goo Goo Dolls
I absolutely LOVE this song. By far, one of my favorites right now. So, so, so good. (I guess something good came out of Transformers 3...)
Currently thankful for: Coffee, chocolate syrup, & vanilla ice cream
My brother's roommate went to Ukraine and came back talking about this. I made my own version of it tonight and it was SO GOOD. You should go try it. Right now. I'll wait.


So. I've really been wanting to blog lately, but unfortunately, haven't been able to come up with anything to blog about. Cleveland's not the most exciting place in the summer. But! Lucky for me, I found a list of 20 things to blog about over the next 20 days! Naturally, I decided to go for it, so starting tomorrow, I'll be answering this list of questions:

1. List 20 random things about yourself.
2. Describe your favorite childhood memory.
3. Talk about how you met your spouse/significant other.
4. If you could have your dream job, what would it be?
5. What is your greatest challenge right now?
6. Five random things that make you happy.
7. What do people misunderstand most about you?
8. Describe your personality.
9. Top 10 favorite photo memories and why.
10. 3 favorite recipes (or recipes you'd like to try).
11. What has been your biggest life lesson so far?
12. Top 10 favorite songs.
13. If your life had a theme, what would it be?
14. A cause you're most passionate about.
15. Where is your favorite place?
16. Five things you love.
17. Describe some ways you have changed over the past 5 years.
18. One word that best describes you and why.
19. List 10 of your favorite blogs.
20. List 20 things you're thankful for.

Now, whether or not I'll actually keep up with this for 20 consecutive days is another story. I'm going to try my best, but knowing me...expect a few gaps. Ha. Either way, feel free to join me if you'd like!