Meet New Books
Meet New Books

Mike Reid is a versatile author British Author born in Scotlang, whose works span across various genres, including political commentary, crime thrillers, and deeply emotional fiction. His novels, such as Now You're Gone, All I Ever Wanted, and Crash and Burn, explore the complexities of human relationships, love, and loss. Mike’s writing captures the emotional depth of life’s highs and lows, resonating with readers through vivid characters and heartfelt storytelling.


In addition to his emotional narratives, Mike has authored the political book Making Britain Great Again, offering a sharp perspective on modern political discourse. His crime thrillers, Clara Romanov I: Truth Will Unfold and Clara Romanov II: Deception Unveiled, delve into suspenseful, high-stakes plots that keep readers on the edge of their seats.


From political intrigue to personal reflection, Mike’s diverse body of work invites readers to explore the many facets of life, leaving a lasting impact in many ways.


Books Rated/Reviewed by Michael Reid

Comments by Michael-Reid
Page 1
Showing 1 - 10 of 12 

One True Loves by Taylor Jenkins Reid is a compelling novel about love, loss, and the difficult choices that arise from unexpected circumstances. The story follows Emma Blair, who marries her high school sweetheart, Jesse. Their life seems perfect until Jesse disappears in a helicopter crash and is presumed dead. Years later, Emma has rebuilt her life and found love again with Sam, only for Jesse to return, very much alive. The novel delves into Emma’s emotional turmoil as she grapples with two great loves and the person she has become in the wake of tragedy. Reid masterfully explores themes of grief, identity, and the evolution of love. The characters are well-developed, and the emotional stakes are high, making readers question what it means to move on and whether we can truly have more than one “true love.” The narrative’s honesty and depth make it a moving examination of love's complexities and the choices that define us.

2 months • 1 Like
 • Go to Comment

The Midnight Library by Matt Haig is a thought-provoking novel that examines themes of regret, second chances, and the search for meaning. The story follows Nora Seed, a woman overwhelmed by despair and regret, who finds herself in the Midnight Library — a liminal space between life and death. Here, she has the chance to experience alternate versions of her life by exploring books that show what could have been if she had made different choices. Each life she explores reveals truths about her desires, fears, and the impact of her decisions. Haig’s novel delves into the emotional weight of regret and the human tendency to wonder “what if.” The book encourages readers to find value in the present and recognize that fulfillment often comes from acceptance rather than perfection. Haig’s accessible prose, combined with the novel's philosophical depth, offers an uplifting and introspective experience, making it a powerful exploration of life's possibilities.

2 months • 3 Likes
 • Go to Comment

Normal People by Sally Rooney is a deeply emotional exploration of love, miscommunication, and personal growth. The novel follows Connell and Marianne, two young people from a small Irish town, who navigate a complex, on-and-off romantic relationship from high school to university. The story is marked by their struggles with vulnerability, class differences, and the impact of personal trauma. Rooney captures the raw intricacies of intimacy and how two people who care for each other deeply can still falter due to misunderstandings and personal insecurities. The characters' inability to fully articulate their emotions leads to missed opportunities and heartache. Rooney’s minimalist prose highlights the tension and connection between the characters, making the story feel intensely real and relatable. The themes of regret, longing, and the hope for reconciliation resonate throughout the narrative. Normal People offers a poignant look at how relationships can both heal and harm, emphasizing that love is often as fragile as it is powerful.

2 months • 3 Likes
 • Go to Comment

Love and Other Words by Christina Lauren is a heartfelt and emotional novel about love, friendship, and second chances. The story follows Macy Sorensen and Elliot Petropoulos, who were once inseparable childhood friends and first loves. Through alternating timelines, the novel reveals how their deep bond blossomed over shared books and heartfelt conversations in Macy's family cabin. However, a misunderstanding shatters their relationship, leaving them estranged for years.


When Macy and Elliot unexpectedly reconnect as adults, they are forced to confront the painful past and the unresolved feelings they still hold for each other. Macy, now a pediatric resident living a carefully controlled life, must decide whether she can open her heart to Elliot again, while Elliot is determined to uncover the truth behind their fallout and win back her trust.


The novel is beautifully structured, switching between their tender childhood memories and their present-day interactions, allowing readers to understand the depth of their connection. Themes of love, loss, regret, and healing are explored with sensitivity and emotional depth. Lauren’s writing captures the nuances of vulnerability, the ache of lost time, and the hope of reconciliation.


Much like All I Ever Wanted, Love and Other Words delves into the complexities of relationships and the lingering impact of past decisions. Both stories highlight the journey of rediscovery and the courage it takes to forgive and embrace a second chance at happiness.

The Light We Lost by Jill Santopolo is a deeply emotional novel that explores the intense connection between Lucy and Gabe, who meet on September 11, 2001. This significant event bonds them in a way that shapes their lives forever. The novel follows their relationship over the years, even as careers, distance, and other relationships pull them apart. Lucy narrates the story as a letter to Gabe, giving the novel an intimate, confessional tone. Themes of passion, regret, and the paths we choose are at the heart of the story. Santopolo captures the idea that certain loves leave an indelible mark, regardless of where life takes us. The emotional honesty of the characters, combined with the novel’s exploration of destiny versus choice, makes it a relatable and heart-wrenching read. The prose is poignant and reflective, evoking the bittersweet nature of memories and the "what-could-have-beens." The Light We Lost resonates with anyone who has faced difficult decisions in the name of love, illustrating the lingering impact of a powerful, yet imperfect connection.

One Day is a heart-wrenching and beautifully constructed novel that follows the lives of Emma Morley and Dexter Mayhew over the course of 20 years. The narrative revisits the characters on the same date — July 15th — each year, capturing snapshots of their evolving friendship, love, and life’s unpredictable turns. Nicholls expertly weaves themes of unrequited love, personal growth, and missed opportunities, making readers reflect on the fragility and complexity of human relationships. Emma, ambitious and idealistic, contrasts with Dexter, a charming but self-destructive man, yet their bond remains undeniable through life’s challenges. Their chemistry and misunderstandings resonate deeply, showcasing the tension between what we want and what life delivers. Nicholls’s writing is sharp, witty, and poignant, balancing humor with deep emotional impact. The novel’s structure of revisiting the same day year after year adds a unique rhythm, making the passage of time feel both immediate and relentless. One Day captures the essence of longing, regret, and the hope that love, though delayed, can eventually find its way.

2 months • 1 Like
 • Go to Comment

Beautiful Ruins by Jess Walter is a captivating and intricately woven novel that spans decades, continents, and the complexities of human relationships. The story begins in a small, isolated village on the Italian coast in 1962, where a young innkeeper named Pasquale Tursi meets Dee Moray, a beautiful American actress who believes she is dying. This seemingly simple encounter sets off a chain of events that ripple through the lives of various characters, connecting Italy, Hollywood, and the modern world in surprising and poignant ways.


One of the novel's greatest strengths is its ambitious scope. Jess Walter expertly navigates multiple storylines, time periods, and locations, seamlessly blending historical fiction with contemporary drama. The narrative jumps between 1960s Italy, modern-day Los Angeles, war-torn World War II, and even a screenplay set in the future. Despite its complexity, the plot remains engaging and coherent, thanks to Walter’s skillful storytelling and careful attention to detail.


The characters in Beautiful Ruins are richly drawn and emotionally resonant. Pasquale is a deeply sympathetic figure, a dreamer whose quiet determination and unrequited love drive the novel’s emotional core. Dee Moray embodies the fragility and strength of a woman caught in circumstances beyond her control. The supporting characters — including Michael Deane, a cynical Hollywood producer, and Claire Silver, an ambitious assistant who dreams of meaningful work — provide additional layers of depth and perspective, reflecting the many faces of ambition, regret, and hope.


The novel also offers a subtle critique of the entertainment industry and the superficiality of modern culture, particularly through the lens of Hollywood’s obsession with fame and success. Yet, amid this cynicism, Walter’s story remains hopeful, reminding readers of the enduring power of love, human connection, and second chances.


In conclusion, Beautiful Ruins is a masterful blend of romance, historical fiction, and social commentary. Jess Walter’s ability to intertwine multiple narratives and his deep empathy for his characters make this novel a richly rewarding experience. It’s a story about the beauty found in broken dreams, the resilience of the human spirit, and the enduring hope for redemption. Readers who appreciate layered storytelling, compelling characters, and evocative writing will find Beautiful Ruins a memorable and thought-provoking read.

Me Before You by Jojo Moyes is a poignant and thought-provoking novel that resonates deeply with readers due to its exploration of love, choice, and the complexities of human emotion. The story centers on Louisa Clark, an optimistic and quirky young woman, and Will Traynor, a once-adventurous man who becomes paralyzed after an accident. Their unlikely relationship unfolds in a way that is both heartwarming and heartbreaking, tackling profound themes of life, dignity, and personal freedom.


One of the book's greatest strengths is its richly developed characters. Louisa, with her colorful fashion sense and zest for life, is relatable and endearing. Her journey of self-discovery, prompted by her role as Will’s caregiver, allows readers to see her growth as she grapples with the limitations of her small-town life and the broader possibilities that await her. Will, in contrast, is intelligent, witty, and deeply frustrated with his physical limitations. His struggle with his new reality as a quadriplegic is portrayed with authenticity and sensitivity, giving voice to the emotional and psychological challenges faced by those with disabilities.


The dynamic between Louisa and Will is what truly makes Me Before You a compelling read. Their relationship challenges both of them: Louisa learns to push past her comfort zones, while Will begins to see life through her eyes. The novel is filled with moments of humor, tenderness, and raw honesty, making their connection feel genuine. Their interactions highlight the importance of empathy, understanding, and the transformative power of human connection.


The story also delves into difficult ethical questions regarding quality of life and the right to make personal choices, even when those choices are painful or controversial. Will’s decision about his future is handled with care, and Moyes does not offer easy answers. This moral complexity invites readers to reflect on their own beliefs about autonomy, love, and sacrifice.


Me Before You is ultimately a story about the impact we have on one another and the ways we can inspire change, even when faced with heartbreaking realities. It is a reminder that love is not always about saving someone, but sometimes about giving them the freedom to make their own choices. With its emotional depth, memorable characters, and thought-provoking themes, Me Before You is a book that captivates, challenges, and moves readers, making it a truly worthwhile read.

The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald is celebrated for its exploration of timeless themes, masterful use of symbolism, and rich character development. At its core, the novel critiques the American Dream, illustrating how its promise of prosperity and happiness can be corrupted by greed and superficiality. Gatsby himself embodies the pursuit of this dream — a man who rises from humble beginnings to immense wealth in hopes of reclaiming the love of his life, Daisy Buchanan. However, his dream is ultimately unattainable, as his vision of Daisy is an illusion, an idealized version that reality can never match. This disparity between illusion and reality is a central theme, emphasizing the dangers of living in a world of false hopes. Gatsby’s relentless pursuit highlights not only the fragility of dreams but also the emptiness that often accompanies material success.


The novel's setting in 1920s America, during the Roaring Twenties, provides a vivid backdrop for Fitzgerald's critique of excess and moral decay. The opulence of Gatsby's lavish parties — filled with music, dancing, and free-flowing champagne — contrasts sharply with the desolation of the Valley of Ashes, where the working class struggles amid industrial waste. This juxtaposition underscores the novel's commentary on class divisions and societal inequality. Characters like Tom and Daisy Buchanan represent the careless and entitled nature of the upper class, while George and Myrtle Wilson symbolize the desperation and hopelessness of the lower class. These societal contrasts create a framework for understanding the hollowness of wealth and privilege, where moral integrity is often sacrificed for personal gain.


Ultimately, The Great Gatsby endures because it captures the universal human experience of striving for something greater, often at the expense of recognizing what is real and meaningful. It is a novel about hope, love, and the inevitable disillusionment that follows when dreams collide with reality. Fitzgerald's exploration of these themes, combined with his elegant prose and sharp social insight, ensures that The Great Gatsby remains a poignant and thought-provoking work, relevant to readers across generations.

2 months • 1 Like
 • Go to Comment

Courtney Peppernell’s Pillow Thoughts is a heartfelt collection of poetry and prose that explores themes of love, loss, healing, and self-reflection. Divided into ten sections, it caters to readers going through various stages of relationships and personal growth. From heartbreak to healing, each section addresses different emotions, allowing readers to connect with their own experiences and find comfort in the words as they navigate their emotional journeys.

Peppernell’s writing is simple and direct, enhancing the emotional depth of each poem. Her short, concise lines are personal and intimate, allowing readers to project their own experiences onto the page. Many poems are written in the second person, directly addressing the reader, which creates a sense of companionship. This conversational tone gives the book a comforting, therapeutic quality.


One of the most compelling aspects of Pillow Thoughts is its focus on self-love and healing. While many poems deal with the pain of lost love or heartache, there is an overarching message of hope. Peppernell encourages readers to find strength within themselves, recognizing their own worth even in moments of emotional hardship. This message of empowerment is particularly resonant in today’s focus on mental health and self-care.


The collection also explores loneliness and the fear of being alone, acknowledging these feelings as part of the human experience. However, it balances this with reassurances that being alone does not mean being unloved or unworthy. This nuanced exploration of relationships and solitude makes Pillow Thoughts relatable for many readers, offering comfort for those going through similar emotional struggles.


Visually, the minimalist style complements the straightforward nature of the poems, with simple black-and-white pages keeping the focus on the words themselves. This simplicity creates a calming effect, inviting readers to reflect on the emotions behind the verses.


Pillow Thoughts is a collection that speaks to the heart. Through simple, poignant verses, Peppernell explores universal themes of love, heartbreak, and healing, providing comfort and companionship to her readers. The book’s focus on self-love and empowerment makes it especially resonant for those on their own journey of healing and personal growth. Whether experiencing the joy of new love, the pain of heartbreak, or the process of healing, Pillow Thoughts offers words of encouragement and understanding.

4 months • 1 Like
 • Go to Comment
Page 1 of 2Next Page