I ‘d never heard of PENNY REID until this book came into view. If you know me, you know how much I adore all things vintage. This cover caught my eye in all its cross-stitched, past-honoring glory. It even made up for the strange title, which eventually I understood because I read the book. The story was as glorious as the cover. Since then, I’ve read quite a few of Penny Reid’s books, but this one has a special place in my heart cockles. So, not only is this my cover crush today but also a book rec! 
I ‘m reading CHASING FIRE by AVERY KINGSTON. (You may recall the lovely sunburst and pensive stare cover.) It’s Avery’s debut and there are many kudos to be given. First, the cover/inner matter is gorgeous. Second, the writing and structure is super well done. She mixed up the structure a little and that small tidbit gave the story urgency pre and post EVENT. *No spoilers* Third, she covers some hard topics, y’all. And she does it based upon her characters needs and motivations so far as I’ve read. I’m on page 198 out of 355 and I had to take a break. I will continue, but it’s intense and I needed a breather.
I do need to send out a disclaimer: If you don’t like to read books with detailed sex scenes, this book is not for you. Sex is a coping mechanism for these characters and long scenes are dedicated to it. I wasn’t aware when I began, and it’s to the point now where I just flip past them, but if that’s not your jam or something you can overlook, you won’t be happy with this book.
I’ll hold off on my adorable grading scale of lighting bolts 
and rain clouds 
until I’m done reading, so it gets a fair shake.
Are you reading something worth sharing? I’d love to put a few of your tried-and-true stories on my TBR! 
Mea Smith 