Hidden Bookshelves

Category: Blog

  • My Favourite Novel as Child: Darci in Cabin 13

    My Favourite Novel as Child: Darci in Cabin 13

    As a child, if you have parents who read to you a lot then all of the books may blur together. All but one. For me that book was Darci in Cabin 13 by Martha Tolls

    I think I would have gotten my mother to read this to me on repeat if she would let me (she said we had to read other stuff). Every night it was one more chapter, just one more.

    Now that I’m older, I can’t remember why I was so obsessed with this book. I just was. Maybe it was the characters, maybe it was that they were at a summer camp ( I was an introverted child, no way was I going to go to summer camp by myself).

    I was also obsessed with trying to figure out what character on the cover was actually Darci and who was the bunk mates.

    I think the friendship of these girls really spoke to me and maybe I wanted that in my own life (again introverted and never wanted to talk to other children.)

    As I got older, we got rid of a lot of my children’s books, this one included and for years I forgot about it until I saw a picture of it. Then I had to get another copy and I searched for years to try and find one. But as this was an older novel it was super hard to find. Luckily I have amazing parents who were able to locate it and two of Darci’s other adventure novels online and bought all three for me ( I was only interested in Darci in Cabin 13).

    Now I have my own copy to read to my daughter when she gets older and I truly hope that she is able to connect and enjoy this story just as much as me.

    For now, it is safely tucked away in a box for me to pull out when she is older.

    Do you guys have any books from your childhood that really stood out? Or that you wish you could find a copy of?

    Let me know in the comments

    -Fallon

  • Books That Have Summer Vibes

    Books That Have Summer Vibes

    With Summer 2025 just around the corner here are some book recommendations that have summer vibes. Perfect to read at the beach, on vacation or at home just enjoying the sun on your back patio.

    We have included links to each book so you can grab your own copy to add to your never ending TBR

    1. Beach Read by Emily Henry

    It is a contemporary romance novel that follows January Andrews, a romance writer, and Augustus “Gus” Everett, a literary fiction author. Both are struggling with writer’s block and end up spending the summer as neighbors in beach houses. They strike a deal to swap genres—January will try writing something more serious, and Gus will attempt a feel-good romance. As they challenge each other and spend more time together, their playful rivalry turns into something deeper, forcing them to confront past traumas and rediscover inspiration through love.

    While I haven’t read this novel myself (it is on my TBR) the title says it all. ‘Beach Read’ is clearly meant to be read in the summer at the beach and when you go on Goodreads it has been shelved in ‘Summer vibes’ at least 122 times.

    2. The Unhoneymooners by Christina Lauren

    It is a romantic comedy about Olive Torres and Ethan Thomas, two sworn enemies who are the only ones not affected by a bout of food poisoning at a wedding. As a result, they end up going on the honeymoon trip meant for the bride and groom. To make the most of the free vacation, they pretend to be newlyweds—despite their mutual dislike. But as they spend more time together in paradise, sparks begin to fly, and their fake relationship starts to feel very real. The novel blends humor, witty banter, and a slow-burn romance.

    Now this one I did read and I adored it. With the cover, the setting, and even the characters the entire book is giving off summer vibes. Also whole wedding party and guests get food poisonings? Yikes!

    Grab your copy here!

    https://amzn.to/3FvIFN5

    3. Hook, Line, and Sinker by Tessa Bailey

    It is the second book in the Bellinger Sisters series. This romantic comedy follows Hannah Bellinger, a spirited and music-loving woman who returns to the small fishing town of Westport, Washington, to work on a film project. There, she reconnects with Fox Thornton, a charming and flirtatious fisherman known for his commitment issues. As they spend more time together, their friendship deepens, and they both begin to confront their fears about love and vulnerability. The novel blends humor, heartfelt moments, and a slow-burn romance, exploring themes of self-discovery and emotional growth.

    While you technically don’t have to read the first one to be able to read the second one it is highly recommended because of other characters in this book. So I guess this is a two book recommendation? Because the first book also gives off summer vibes.

    You can grab your copy here.

    https://amzn.to/4dwvoAu

    4. Good Girl Complex by Elle Kennedy

    The story follows Mackenzie “Mac” Cabot, a wealthy 20-year-old who moves to Avalon Bay in the Carolinas to attend Garnet College. Though she has her life meticulously planned, including a long-term boyfriend and a successful internet business, her world is upended when she meets Cooper Hartley, a local bad boy with a rough exterior. Initially, Cooper approaches Mac with ulterior motives, seeking revenge on her boyfriend who wronged him. However, as they spend time together, their relationship evolves from a calculated plan to genuine affection. Mac begins to question her life choices, while Cooper grapples with the secret he’s keeping from her, threatening their budding romance.

    We all get the story, good girl pleaser set on a beach with a ‘bad boy’? With Romance? Can it get anymore summer vibes then this?

    https://amzn.to/4kunUjO

    5. The Roughest Draft by Emily Wimberley

    The story centers on Katrina Freeling and Nathan Van Huysen, once a successful co-author duo whose partnership ended abruptly after their second novel became a bestseller. Three years later, both are at crossroads in their personal and professional lives. Bound by a contractual obligation to deliver one final book, they reluctantly reunite in the same Florida town where they previously found success. As they work together, old tensions resurface, and they must confront the reasons behind their estrangement while navigating the lingering chemistry between them

    Just looking at the cover alone it is giving summer vibes. The setting of the novel, writing by the pool side? Summer vibes all the way.

    https://amzn.to/3ZwL8h8

    While yes all of these novels are romance, I personally feel that summer vibes are romance novels, fun ones. I did try to include different authors instead of having it all just one author (Emily Henry and Tessa Bailey could have add way more novels included in this.)

    Are there any novels that you would add to this list?

    Let us know in the comments

    -Fallon

  • B.A Paris- An Underrated Thriller Author?

    B.A Paris- An Underrated Thriller Author?

    When folks think of a thriller writer? They think of Freida McFadden – a current Tik Tok sensation-, they think of Stephen King, Agatha Christie, James Patterson, and Gillian Flynn. All of these authors are very popular (for good reason)but an author I think should be included on that list is BA Paris.

    BA Paris is the author of the book Behind Closed Doors, which I am absolutely obsessed with. (I have no words on how I processed with end scene with her friend, it lives rent free in my mind.)

    While her books have received the titles New York Times Best Seller and Sunday Times Best Seller, her name is not one that comes up when discussing ‘thriller authors.’ Her name isn’t one that I have seen come up in conversation and I really don’t know why. When folks ask me for thriller recommendation I always make sure to bring up her name and books.

    I’ve seen that there are some mixed reviews on her books, but I just can’t help but devour her novels.

    I do have quite a backlog of her books to read. I have only read two of her novels, but I know that I will easily buy and read the rest as the two novels I did read have left me thinking and trying to process. The twists, the turns, the misdirection. The novels leave you feeling a little helpless and give you chills.

    If you are looking for a thriller author who is underrated, but still known I would recommend picking up BA Paris and I would recommend starting with Behind Closed Doors. I have included the link below.

    https://amzn.to/4iYrWzN

    -Fallon

  • Kindle Paperwhite VS Kindle Scribe

    Kindle Paperwhite VS Kindle Scribe

    All readers whether they read physical or just e-books have considered buying a Kindle and the biggest question they currently have is which one?

    I have had both the Kindle Paperwhite and the Kindle Scribe so this is my opinion on both.

    The first big difference I noticed between the two is the size. A Kindle Scribe is so much larger then Kindle Paperwhite. If you are looking for an e-reader that is easier to travel with then maybe a Kindle Paperwhite is the choice for you. If you are looking for a Kindle with a larger screen so it is easier to see then I would choose the Kindle Scribe. While yes, you can adjust the size of the font on both, a Kindle Scribe definitely has the advantage of increasing the size of the font while also keeping a page on the screen.

    The second biggest difference I noticed is the ability to highlight and write on the Kindle.

    While a Kindle Paperwhite does offer the ability to highlight quotes, the way it does it allows other folks to see your highlights. The Kindle Scribe allows for note-taking, highlighting and annotating. It even comes with its own stylus.

    The Kindle Paperwhite comes with an adjustable warm light while the Scribe comes with the adjustable warm light but also an auto light adjuster.

    You can also buy a Scribe that has a larger storage space (great for all you book dragons out there).

    The Scribe is obviously more expensive ranging from $400+ while the Kindle Paperwhite is closer to $200

    If you are looking for a small compact, budget friendly e-reader that is just for reading. Then I would recommend getting the Kindle Paperwhite. Link Below.

    https://amzn.to/4mcgqnp

    If you’re looking for an e-reader to take notes that is larger and still allows you to read comfortably then I would recommend getting the Kindle Scribe. Link Below.

    https://amzn.to/4mn7bkr

    Let us know if you have any more recommendations. Or what Kindle you would use!

    -Fallon

  • 5 Fantasy Completed Duologies

    Sometimes as a reader you don’t want a giant 14 book series, but a stand-a-lone just won’t cut it. That is where duologies come in. Below I have compiled a list of duologies I have read and would highly recommend to any reader. A lot of the books I’m recommending below are for fantasy readers.

    1. One Dark Window by Rachel Gillig

    One Dark Window is a dark, atmospheric fantasy about a woman with forbidden magic bound to an ancient spirit, who becomes entangled in a dangerous quest to save her kingdom—and herself.

    While I did enjoy the first book more then the second (As is normal for me) I will say that the series in itself was really good and entertaining. It became a Tik Tok sensation pretty much over night and is highly recommended for any fantasy reader.

    Here is the link for anyone interested

    https://amzn.to/3YZxZgh

    2. These Violet Delights by Chloe Gong

    It is a captivating young adult fantasy novel set in 1920s Shanghai. This reimagining of Romeo and Juliet follows Juliette Cai and Roma Montagov, heirs to rival gangs—the Scarlet Gang and the White Flowers—entangled in a brutal blood feud. When a mysterious contagion causes madness and death across the city, the two must set aside their grudges to confront a monstrous threat that endangers both their families and Shanghai itself.

    This series was on my shelf for the longest time and only the first book. Yet as soon as I read the first book I had no patience to wait for the second book to arrive so I had to buy it on my Kindle…immediately. That alone should be recommendation enough to convince you to read this series if you’re a big fantasy reader.

    Link Below!

    https://amzn.to/4d0PzXc

    3. Uninvited by Sophie Jordan

    It is a gripping young adult dystopian novel that explores themes of identity, free will, and societal prejudice. Set in a near-future society, the story follows Davy Hamilton, a talented and popular high school senior with a promising future at Juilliard. Her life is upended when genetic testing reveals she carries the Homicidal Tendency Syndrome (HTS) gene—dubbed the “kill gene”—which supposedly predisposes individuals to violence. As a result, Davy is expelled from her prestigious school, abandoned by friends and family, and marked as a potential threat despite never having committed a crime. She is placed in a special class with other HTS carriers, where she meets Sean, a fellow carrier who challenges her perceptions and becomes an unexpected ally. Together, they navigate a world that treats them as criminals-in-waiting, questioning whether one’s genetic makeup truly dictates destiny

    This is an older novel (published in 2015) and not a really well known one. But I devoured this series and I loved that it was only two books. Some authors would have tried to force it into a trilogy, but the author did great and knew that the story was done after two.

    Link Below

    https://amzn.to/4cYQQhj

    4. Reign of Shadows by Sophie Jordan

    In a kingdom shrouded in perpetual darkness following a catastrophic eclipse, Luna, the blind and hidden princess of Relhok, has spent her life concealed in a tower to protect her from the usurping chancellor who murdered her parents. Yearning for freedom and purpose beyond her confinement, Luna’s world changes when she encounters Fowler, a brooding archer navigating the treacherous woods. As monstrous creatures known as dwellers roam the land, Luna and Fowler embark on a perilous journey together, facing deadly threats and uncovering secrets that challenge their survival and their hearts. This dark, romantic fantasy offers a unique twist on the classic Rapunzel tale, blending suspense, danger, and a slow-burning romance in a richly imagined world.

    Another Sophie Jordan Duology? Shocker. I love that this author knows exactly when to end a series and how to not over do it. Again this is an older series, and one I truthfully haven’t heard much about, but it was really good when I read it years back.

    Link Below

    https://amzn.to/4jBAYDU

    5. Reboot by Amy Tintera

    It is a fast-paced young adult dystopian novel set in a future where a deadly virus, KDH, causes some teenagers to return from death as “Reboots”—stronger, faster, and less emotional than before. The longer a person is dead before rebooting, the less human they become. Wren Connolly, who rebooted after 178 minutes, is considered the deadliest Reboot in the Republic of Texas

    This is again an older duology, but it is so so good. It is definitely a young adult novel and I did originally read it when I was in my teen years. I have read it a few times since then and did enjoy it just as much as the first time.

    Link below to grab your own copy (don’t forget to buy the second book because you’re going to want to read it right away.)

    https://amzn.to/4iQYTy9

    These are some of my favourite fantasy duologies and I would recommend all of them.

    -Fallon

  • Who are the Best Book Boyfriends out There

    When folks are asked about their ‘favourite book boyfriend’ they always have a character come to mind if they are big readers like myself. Below is a list of the characters who are in the running for the best book boyfriends – in my opinion-.

    1. Rhysand- A Court of Thorns and Roses

    A Court of Thorns and Roses has become a Tik Tok sensation and for good reason. A lot of folks say that the second and third book is way better then the first and to power through it – I agree with this statement-. In A Court of Mist and Fury is when we really get to know the character known as Rhysand who seemed more of a villain in the first book then in the following books. He grows on folks quickly and there are certain chapters that -if you know, you know- will have you clenching the book to your chest.

    2. Rowan- Throne of Glass

    While we don’t meet Rowan until the third book in the series (skipping the prequel) he easily tops the charts as one of the best book boyfriends. Who wouldn’t want a handsome fae that would travel the world to find you and really…destroy an enemy camp.

    I have to admit that at first I really didn’t like him as a character. In the first book we meet him I thought he was a total tool, a jerk, but he grows on you.

    3. Xaden- Fourth Wing

    The latest book boyfriend everyone is talking about comes from Fourth Wing and he is certainly one to notice. Tall, dark, and handsome is what they would qualify him as. At the start of the series the FMC and Xaden are clearly enemies, but they just can’t seem to stay away from each other.

    4. Henry Locke – Most Eligible Bachelor

    This is an unknown one in my opinion. A name that doesn’t come up often. (Or atleast I haven’t seen it come across my feed before).

    Henry Locke is a rich bachelor and is very grumpy about the FMC because she claims to be a dog whisperer. Think enemies to lovers but he is super arrogant and has a charming smile. He is used to getting is way, but not with her around.

    5. Kingfisher – Quicksilver

    While his name makes me cringe a little -the author couldn’t pick a better one?- Kingfisher is the latest book boyfriend to take Tik Tok by storm. I think maybe it is the long hair on the cover that makes me swoon a little, but with his arrogance I can see why Kingfisher is in competition for the top book boyfriend.

    Do you have any book boyfriends that should be on this list? Let us know. We would love to find some more.

    -Fallon

  • 5 Young Adult Series that are Completed

    5 Young Adult Series that are Completed

    Young adult is not a genre itself, but more of a range of ages that the book is ‘recommended’ for, but of course folks of all ages enjoy young adult. 

    Below is a list of completed young adult series that anyone can enjoy. (Some of these are my favourite series and I’m well into my late twenties.)

    1. Harry Potter by JK Rowling

    This story follows the journey of a young wizard, Harry Potter, as he discovers his magical heritage and attends Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Alongside his best friends, Hermione Granger and Ron Weasley, Harry faces thrilling adventures, dark magic, and the growing threat of the dark wizard Voldemort, who seeks to conquer the wizarding world.
    Filled with themes of friendship, bravery, love, and the fight between good and evil, the series captures Harry’s growth from an orphaned boy to a hero who must stand against unimaginable odds.

    2. Gone by Michael Grant

    This series is a gripping young adult dystopian saga that begins with a startling premise: in the blink of an eye, everyone aged 15 and older vanishes from the town of Perdido Beach. The remaining children find themselves trapped within an impenetrable, dome-like barrier, cut off from the outside world. As they struggle to establish order and survive, some begin to develop supernatural abilities, leading to power struggles, alliances, and conflicts that test their morality and resilience. Central to the story is Sam Temple, who emerges as a reluctant leader, facing off against adversaries like the manipulative Caine Soren and the sadistic Drake Merwin, all while contending with a mysterious, malevolent force known as the Darkness or the Gaiaphage

    3. Alive by Scott Sigler

    It is the first installment in the Generations Trilogy, a gripping young adult science fiction novel that blends elements of mystery, horror, and dystopia. The story follows a teenage girl who awakens in a coffin with no memory of her identity or how she got there. Upon escaping, she discovers others in the same predicament, all trapped in a mysterious facility filled with dangers and secrets. As they navigate this treacherous environment, they must uncover the truth about their pasts and the purpose of their confinement. The novel delves into themes of identity, leadership, and survival, keeping readers on edge as the characters confront the unknown

    4. Maximum Ride by James Patterson

    This series is an action-packed young adult sci-fi adventure following Max and her “flock” — six kids who are 98% human and 2% bird, giving them incredible abilities like flight. Genetically engineered and raised in a sinister lab called “The School,” they escape and fight to protect themselves from relentless pursuers, including the terrifying “Erasers” — human-wolf hybrids.
    Led by Max, the flock faces constant danger while unraveling secrets about their origins, their purpose, and a looming threat to humanity.
    Fast-paced, emotional, and full of humor and heart, the series explores themes of freedom, family, and survival against impossible odds.

    5. Red Queen by Victoria Aveyard

    This is a thrilling young adult fantasy saga set in a divided world where society is split by blood — Silvers, who have supernatural abilities, and Reds, who do not.
    Mare Barrow, a Red commoner, discovers she possesses a deadly power of her own — something that shouldn’t be possible. Forced to hide her true identity, Mare is thrust into the dangerous world of the Silver elite, caught between rebellion, betrayal, and the fight for justice.
    As war brews and alliances shift, Mare must navigate a treacherous path of love, loyalty, and power, where one wrong move could cost her everything.

    Do you have any Young Adult completed series that you would recommend? Comment down below to let us know what we should add to our TBR!

  • Review: Happily Never After by Lynn Painter

    Review: Happily Never After by Lynn Painter

    ​Happily Never After by Lynn Painter is a witty and heartfelt romantic comedy that follows Sophie Steinbeck, who discovers just before her wedding that her fiancé has cheated on her—again. Unwilling to confront the situation herself due to her future father-in-law being her father’s formidable boss, Sophie enlists Max, a professional “wedding objector,” to disrupt the ceremony by declaring, “I object!” -Penguin Random House

    _____________________

    I recently read Happily Never After by Lynn Painter on Libby.

    This blog post main contain spoilers for it, so please read at your own risk.

    It follows Sophie as she hires Max, who as a side job, objects at weddings, because her fiancé cheated on her (and not for the first time) Afterwards, she gets in contact with Max and joins him as they become partners in crime. Of course since they’re spending so much time together they grow close and some feelings bloom, but here is the thing. Sophie does not believe in love. She never did. 

    I personally have been a romance kick and using Libby has made accessing romance books super easy while not having to buy them. This was, I think, the fourth book I read on Libby. 

    While the book itself was not the best written book ever (not Pride and Prejudice or Sherlock Holmes), it definitely kepy my attention and I found it to be very character driven. 

    I strive to have Sophies reaction if I had ever found out my fiance was cheating on me. Hiring someone to object at your own wedding and blast the reason why? Amazing. The fact that this book ends with a HEA with the person you hired to object at your wedding is hilarious. 

    Now what I did find odd in the book is that the best friend/maid of honor is the one who had known about Max’s side gig and had originally hired him for Sophie…but she isn’t really mentioned again? I feel like she should have been more involved in the story then just that  night of the wedding where the three of them get trashed. She just seemed to disappear after that and wasn’t really mentioned again.

    This I think is a he falls first trope and I love the way he (Max) approaches it. I also love the way he deals with her ‘senior’ roommates. He definitely could have been more communicative for one of the conflicts of the book. But obviously wasn’t because otherwise the conflict wouldn’t have happened in the first place. So miscommunication is another trope you see in this book.

    All in all, I did enjoy this light, funny book that I devoured in one evening (yes I stayed up way too late to finish it.)

    -Fallon

  • Why Libby Is Underrated

    As a new Libby user (I know surprised me too) I get some weird satisfaction from opening up the Libby app on my phone and seeing that folks are waiting for the book I’m currently in the middle of reading.

    I have been told for years now that I need to update my library card ( I let it expire by accident) and sign up for Libby. I never saw the appeal because I’m the type of person that wants to have the books on her shelf like some sort of trophy that collects dust.

    I also read a lot on Kindle Unlimited, but with the recent updates Amazon made, I want to reduce my ebook purchases through them, best way to do that? Libby.

    Libby is an app on your phone or tablet (you can also get the books to your Kobo) that allows you to connect your library card and get ebooks and audiobooks on loan just like you would at your physical library. So essentially with a little patiences you get access to free ebooks and audiobooks from your library without needing to leave your house (Bonus!)

    Just like at your local library the book you want to ‘check out’ may already be borrowed by another Libby user, but no fear, you can put it on hold! Meaning that when that book is returned it will go to your account! Some libraries will have multiple copies of the same book in attempt to cut down the wait time on popular books.

    When you check out a book there is a 14 day period where the book is in your account. If you don’t read/listen to it in that time then it is returned. You can return it early if you complete it before your time is up. 

    Access Multiple Libraries: Libby can be linked to multiple library cards, allowing users to explore different collections and access a wider range of titles. (Ask us how we know)

    One thing is that your library may not have access to a copy of an ebook you want to read, but you can put a notification on so that if/when it does become available to you, then you can borrow/put it on hold. (I already have four or five books I put this notification on.)

    I think that more folks should get involved with using Libby if they’re readers. Not only are you supporting your local libraries, but you’re helping reduce the profit (even if only by a smidge) of big businesses like Amazon who really only care about their profits instead of consumers experience. 

    I wish I would have started using Libby way sooner and would highly recommend it to anyone who has or wants a library card.

    -Fallon