Barbara Rachel's Reviews

The Eight Heartbreaks of Hanukkah by Jean Meltzer My rating: 5 of 5 stars First of all, I love a second chance romance — this was one of the best I’ve read as far as tension and chemistry between the main characters. I loved the Jewish representation in this book — it was there without being overly explained. It was very much normalized and diffused throughout the book in a completely natural way. Last note… Jared Sparks was hilarious and was totally giving Russell Brand, Get Them To The Greek. That movie might not have aged well, but Russel Brand was still hilarious in it. What I didn’t love… Did Evelyn need to tell us in her head how much she hated her ex ad nauseum? It was as if she lacked insight into any of her own mistakes and it made her kind of unlikable in my mind. In comparison to David’s introspection it made her seem Regina Jones-ish and not in an ironic, funny way. Tropes: Second chance romance. He falls first. Grumpy-Sunshine. Forced p...

Light It Up by Evie Blum My rating: 5 of 5 stars In a few words: Loved and surprised by the spice level. Please note, I did receive this ARC for free; I am writing this honest review voluntarily and appreciate the opportunity provided by the author to review this book. So, Gabby and Ben are lifelong friends and right off the bat sex complicates everything. I loved how Gabby is not a swooning, weak willed heroine: she is sassy, sometimes in the wrong, stubborn and lives out loud. I enjoyed cheering her on. I felt the story was as much about figuring out if two people are any good for each other let alone going to get that happily ever after. There are no guarantees here—anything goes—and I really enjoyed that about this story. It was a roller coaster and I was totally here for it. I loved the Jewish and Israeli representation. It was timely, current, with some real poignant moments. I will say I was surprised by the spice level — ju...