I expected Nomad to be a quiet story about grief and life in the Arizona desert. I didn’t expect it to hit quite so close to home. Cynthia A. Johnstone’s debut surprised me with its beautiful writing, complicated characters, and one very persistent stray dog. Here’s why this one stayed with me.
These books are about or feature themes on grief.
Beloved Book Review: Why Toni Morrison’s Classic Demands More Than Just Your Time
Readers sometimes ask whether a classic really deserves its reputation.
After finishing *Beloved*, my answer is yes… with one important caveat.
This isn’t simply a book you read. It’s a book you carry. In my newest review, I’m sharing what landed for me, what didn’t, and why choosing *when* to read this novel may matter just as much as choosing to read it at all.
Destination Funeral Review: Time Loops, Grief, and the Messy Magic of Chosen Family
Destination Funeral blends grief, friendship, romance, and a time loop into one emotional, funny, beachy summer read worth getting hyped for.
10 Stunning Stories That Spotlight Grief & Survivorship
Reading fiction accounts of grief can also allow us to process these emotions from the safe distance of the characters.
Good Dirt Review: The Heirloom Jar at the Center of a Beautifully Layered Family Story
When an heirloom survives generations, what happens when it breaks?
This week on Lacey In The Library, I’m reviewing *Good Dirt* by Charmaine Wilkerson, a literary family saga that weaves together grief, history, race, and a centuries-old jar carrying more than family memories. It didn’t completely break my heart the way I expected, but it gave me plenty to think about.
Read the full review to see what worked, what wobbled, and whether this acclaimed bestseller belongs on your TBR.
The Seven Year Slip by Ashley Poston: Love, Grief, and a Clever Twist on Timing
Review of The Seven Year Slip—a time-bending romance exploring love, grief, and timing, slightly overhyped but still a heartfelt read.
The Berry Pickers Review: Quiet, Haunting Story That Lingers
A thoughtful review of The Berry Pickers—a quiet, multi-generational story of grief, identity, and family that’s slightly overhyped but worth discussing.
200 Monas by Jan Saenz: Sexuality, Grief & 48 Hours to Sell 200 Orgasm Pills
A spoiler-free 200 Monas review exploring its bold cover design, feminist themes, grief narrative, and chaotic 48-hour plot. Full analysis inside.
Magic, Memory, and Found Love: A Review of The Lost Story by Meg Shaffer
A thoughtful review of The Lost Story by Meg Shaffer, exploring its fairytale structure, LGBTQ+ themes, whimsical storytelling, and why this cozy, magical novel is under-hyped.
Book Review: Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaughy
Discover why Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy is a must-read. In this review, I explore its moody aesthetics, layered characters, and powerful themes of climate change, trust, and love.









