In the gripping novel “A Killing Cold” by Kate Alice Marshall, Theodora Scott, raised by adoptive parents, becomes engaged to Connor Dalton. As she joins his family at a remote retreat, unsettling messages warn her to stay away. Seemingly tied to her past, Theodora’s memories surface, intertwining mystery and suspense.

The author reflects on their admiration for the Keira Knightley film adaptation of “Pride and Prejudice” and their recent visit to Chatsworth, a filming location. After overcoming initial intimidation, they appreciated Jane Austen’s writing and its commentary on societal shortcomings, while praising its portrayal of a slow-burn love story.

“And people hate that quality in a young woman, don’t they? They don’t know what to do with a girl who isn’t looking for their approval. They feel like they have to bring her down a peg.”

For this review, I would like to point out that I definitely judged a book by its cover because, for those who know me personally, there is no way I’m not reading a book with a bottle of champagne on the cover. The Wedding People by Alison Espach was just a beautiful story about letting go, being yourself, finding yourself, and learning to enjoy life. Now, with all that being said, it was not full of motivational quotes, and it is not some cringey, self-help book. This book had so much more depth to it than I thought and reminded you to take in every piece of your life, that no matter how small a moment seems it can be significant. 

We always feel like we are the only ones that have felt or done something and sometimes that can be a lonely feeling, but Dolly helps you remember you’re not alone. This is a fun lighthearted read, but also touches on things that are darker and more difficult. Dolly sprinkles in fun anecdotes, along with some recipes (that I will be trying), and some good o’nostalgia. If you’re feeling you may be at a standstill in life or that you are transitioning and don’t really know where your direction is, this will help you feel seen. This could also be a read that you do because you want to remember your good times, your friends, and that you will figure it all out.