Welcome to Margin Notes
A blog and newsletter from Ibrah Reads.
Book Review: The Unsinkable Greta James by Jennifer E. Smith
I picked up The Unsinkable Greta James by Jennifer E. Smith at a second-hand bookstore on a whim and sank into while I was off work for the new year. It was such a touching book, and I loved reading it. In it we meet Greta, an indie rockstar who is taking a break from touring to process the loss of her mother.
Young Adult Fiction That Broke My Heart
Below are 7 Young Adult Fiction novels that broke my heart, in the best possible way. Book recommendations for readers who enjoy diverse characters and authors, heartbreaking scenarios, teen and young-adult emotions without the angsty drama.
Yours Truly by Abby Jimenez
Yours Truly by Abby Jimenez easily fits into my top 5 romance books of the year; it was so full of humor and heart. In it we get reacquainted with Brianna, the best friend from book one in the series (Part of Your World) and we meet Jacob, the new ER doctor who is working with Brianna. They have a disastrous first meeting and misunderstand each other, but eventually come to realize that they thoroughly enjoy each other’s company.
Book Review: The Soulmate by Sally Hepworth
The Soulmate by Sally Hepworth is a dual timeline, dual perspective mystery that kept the pages turning. In it we meet two women, Pippa and Amanda, and we alternate between their narratives. But did she jump? Did Pippa’s husband, Gabe, push her? Those are the questions the book is anchored on.
Book Review: Block Shot (Hoops #2) by Kennedy Ryan
Block Shot by Kennedy Ryan … what can I say, I finally understand all the love for Jared and Banner. This book is the second in the Hoops series and SHEW it is a hot one.
Book Review: Stolen Tongues by Felix Blackwell
Stolen Tongues by Felix Blackwell is complicated to review. I love Indie books and this one has the most intriguing start.
Book Review: Delilah Green Doesn't Care by Ashley Herring Blake
Delilah Green Doesn't Care is a debut romance novel by Ashley Herring Blake, and the first in a series. It’s queer romantic comedy with a lovable protagonist, Delilah, who is returning to her hometown for the wedding of her estranged stepsister, Astrid.
Book Review: Part of Your World by Abby Jimenez
Part of Your World by Abby Jimenez is a book you will find a lot of love for on Bookstagram, and I understand why. It’s a witty banter, instant attraction, easy to read romance story.
Dilla Time by Dan Charnas
Dilla Time by Dan Charnas chronicles the life and impact of J Dilla, James DeWitt Yancey, who even if you do not recognize his name, you have likely listened to music that has been influenced by his style as a producer.
The Women Could Fly by Megan Giddings
The Women Could Fly by Megan Giddings gave a view of womanhood and motherhood through the eyes of a dystopian and magical world, told from a character who is at critical juncture in her life.
More Than You’ll Ever Know by Katie Gutierrez
More Than You’ll Ever Know by Katie Gutierrez was an interesting dual-timeline crime mystery, told from dual POVs. The first is a woman at the center of a two-husband double life, Lore, and the second is a true crime blogger, Cassie.
We Were Dreamers: An Immigrant Superhero Origin Story by Simu Liu
This year has given us celebrity memoir gold and We Were Dreamers: An Immigrant Superhero Origin Story by Simu Liu is no exception. I loved it so much!
Hook Shot by Kennedy Ryan
Hook Shot is another fantastic read from Kennedy Ryan with a couple that is fun to root for. The way she writes is so deep; it’s the current day love story AND each character’s personal growth that helps them be ready for love.
Long Shot by Kennedy Ryan
Long Shot by Kennedy Ryan was my first read in her backlist and it won’t be my last. After reading an advanced copy of her upcoming novel, Before I Let Go, I knew her writing was for me
Jackal by Erin E. Adams
Jackal by Erin E. Adams is a book I have been eagerly awaiting. The cover is attention grabbing, the book description is tense, and I love a debut author – especially in thrillers.
All the Dangerous Things by Stacy Willingham
All the Dangerous Things is Stacy Willingham’s second thriller, and it came in as a strong follow-up, with a grim storyline. In it we meet Isabelle, whose son, Mason, was kidnapped from his bedroom a year prior.
Yolk by Mary H.K. Choi
Yolk by Mary H.K. Choi is an excellent choice for readers who love character-driven novels that center estranged sibling relationships. The plot is the supporting character in this one and the main story is told through the relationship between sisters Jayne and June.
The Weight of Blood by Tiffany D. Jackson
It’s no secret that I love Tiffany D. Jackson and have been eagerly waiting for her latest book, The Weight of Blood, to release. It did not disappoint! It has her classic YA horror style and, of course, a systemic issue in the spotlight.
Before I Let Go by Kennedy Ryan
Before I Let Go by Kennedy Ryan is a book that gets so close to the heart that it borderline hurts, in the best possible way.
Honey & Spice by Bolu Babalola
Honey & Spice by Bolu Babalola is a witty and heartwarming romance novel that was absolutely FUN to read.