“Hi, Johnny.” “Hi, Shannon,” I was not at all prepared for the emotional rollercoaster I was going to experience throughout the book. I laughed, I cried, I squealed, I wanted to throw the book against the wall. I felt all the feels. Shannon, ugh i just want to hug her and save her from her troubles and Johnny, is the best bulldozer “friend” anyone could ask for. Favorite Quotes: “I have allergies. Me too. To a- and b-, now, tell me who made you cry and I’ll fix it.” “Now, who wants to call my girlfriend a w- to my face?” “Who are you?” “I’m Johnny. Who are you?” “Shannon, like the river,” “Because she was addictive. And I was obsessed.” “I’m doing the math here, Shannon, and two plus two equals a bad b-.” “I just wanted her. For keeps.” “She makes my heart go, like, whoa. Is that right? So bad, Da. Boom, boom, f- boom. All the time.” “Stay. Stay with me, Shannon. I can keep you safe…” 4.5⭐️

“The most important thing in life is to learn how to give out love, and to let it come in.” This book! This one right here?!? So good! I have no complaints. I loved the pacing of the book, the structure, how poetic it was. The way Mitch Albom wrote about Morrie made him seem like a wonderful person (which I’m sure he was) and I would have loved to have met him.

This book was insightful and gave a glimpse of what it is like to work in a school. I love how the author gave each character their story. I also love how the author wasn’t shy in sharing topics on grief, alcoholism and dealing with the school-related issues. Some of the stories I thought were going to be lead one way but was surprised how they ended. Heartwarming would be the word I describe this book.

“Sometimes an antique shows its true value only when you understand its history.” —Arthur Crockleford This title of the book intrigued mainly because of my father who loves antiques. I wasn’t sure I was going to love this book but C.L. Miller exceeded my expectations. I loved how colorful the characters were. Aunt Carole was my favorite, she was a breath of fresh air. I’m excited to continue with the series, but I’m sad that I have to wait until next year.

This was enjoyable read. I very much liked the townspeople and their little side stories. However there was a lot going on that the plot was loss a little bit during the story.

I loved this book despite it taking me a long time to finish (dealing with personal things) anyway, I love Vera and her new found family she has with Julia, Oliver, Sana, Riki and little sweet Emma. I thought the multiple povs will confuse me but Jesse Q. Sutanto made it easy to follow. I will continue with the series and I’m excited the next enstallment of Vera’s adventures.