The Huntress

I read The Huntress by Kate Quinn for book club. The book description says, "Bold and fearless, Nina Markova always dreamed of flying. When the Nazis attack the Soviet Union, she risks everything to join the legendary Night Witches, an all-female night bomber regiment wreaking havoc on the invading Germans. When she is stranded behind enemy lines, Nina becomes the prey of a lethal Nazi murderess known as the Huntress, and only Nina’s bravery and cunning will keep her alive. Transformed by the horrors he witnessed from Omaha Beach to the Nuremberg Trials, British war correspondent Ian Graham has become a dedicated Nazi hunter. Yet one target eludes him: a vicious predator known as the Huntress. To find her, the fierce, disciplined investigator joins forces with the only witness to escape the Huntress alive: the brazen, cocksure Nina. But a shared secret could derail their mission unless Ian and Nina force themselves to confront it. Growing up in post-war Boston, seventeen-year-old Jordan McBride is determined to become a photographer. When her long-widowed father unexpectedly comes homes with a new fiancée, Jordan is thrilled. But there is something disconcerting about the soft-spoken German widow. Certain that danger is lurking, Jordan begins to delve into her new stepmother’s past in this gripping post-war mystery—only to discover that there are mysteries buried deep in her family . . . secrets that may threaten all Jordan holds dear."

This was a great book. I had to switch between audio and reading in order to finish the long book on time for book club, but I enjoyed it both ways. The story was super engaging and easy to follow, even as it switched among three different characters. The book was thought-provoking and led to lots of great discussion at book club. It definitely had some adult content and language, which was pretty much the only downside for me. Otherwise I really enjoyed the story and seeing this part of history, and I was so impressed by the author's ability to just create a compelling story and tell it the way she did.

* * (2/3 = Liked it)

Anne of Green Gables

I know I already have this book on the blog, but I read it again for book club. (Someone chose it who had never read it before.) The book description says, "For generations, readers have been charmed by the special world of Green Gables, an old-fashioned farm outside a town called Avonlea. Eleven-year-old Anne Shirley has arrived in this verdant corner of Prince Edward Island only to discover that the Cuthberts—elderly Matthew and his stern sister, Marilla—want to adopt a boy, not a feisty redheaded girl. But before they can send her back, Anne—who simply must have more scope for her imagination and a real home—wins them over completely."

This book was just a complete delight. I had forgotten how great it was, and it was just the joy I needed in my life. I honestly just kept thinking as I read it, "I love this book. Anne is just delightful." She would make me laugh out loud. Anne is just the most distinct, lovable character with so much personality. I loved reading this book.

* * * (3/3 = Loved it)

2026 Picture Books

Here are some picture books I've read in 2026 and really enjoyed. (I will update this post with more as the year goes on.)

I thought this was a great, relatable story with a great message of kindness and standing up for yourself. I was already a fan of the author but really enjoyed this. The illustrations were really well done.

This book was awesome. It made me laugh out loud. Just incredible illustrations that show so much feeling and a story that kids will relate to. I'd love to see this one get a Caldecott.

This was such a cool story. I loved the message and also loved the style of illustrations.