Author's guest post at my blog:
https://bookfare.blogspot.com/2022/03/foodfic-please-welcome-shannon-grogan.html

I really like stalker suspense type books. The mystery is what entices me. They why and the who. This was very creepy, sad, and a very tense book. Kara had her moments of being really mean like her sister was. I feel like based on all she dealt with and her parent's absence in her life it was justified. I would have liked a moment with her mom and the conversation they really needed to have. ( )

Sixteen-year-old Kara is angry with her dead sister and with her mother. When Kellen died, her father left home and her mother retreated into a shell until she found religion. Her newfound faith changed her into a Holy Roller, offering advice and words of hope to strangers in her new cafe, while ignoring her own daughter. Kara doesn’t mourn Kellen because she hated her, hinting at something Kellen did which was unforgivable.

Kara bakes all sorts of baked goods to forget her problems, spending time alternately hurting and loving Charlie, the only boy who’s ever been nice to her, and trying to ignore scary notes randomly left on a daily basis by a stalker. Despite numerous opportunities to take others into her confidence, she continually assures herself she could handle the situation. By the time she realizes she’s in over her head, it’s almost too late.

In alternating chapters readers take a very slow ride through Kara’s memories growing up with Kellen, leading up to the unveiling of her stalker. However, I was not impressed. I found Kara to be annoying because of the countless excuses she gave for not seeking help as the notes got progressively worse. Always second-guessing herself, she also didn’t have any self-confidence. The most interesting character in the book was Charlie.

Thus I will leave it up to you readers ages 14 and older to decide if you want to read it or not.

Book review link: https://shouldireaditornot.wordpress.com/2017/05/04/from-where-i-watch-you-shann... ( )

This book was crafted like an award-winning pastry--the perfect blend of complimentary ingredients, and a rich, wonderful taste that stays with you long after. Seriously, it'll leave you craving more. They mystery of who Kara's stalker is definitely kept me reading, but I whole-heartedly loved the baking elements as well. And Charlie, well, he's just the perfect romantic addition to Kara's story. The flashback chapters were implemented in exactly the right places to keep the pacing of the story going. A great read, for sure. ( )

There was just something about this book that captured my attention and won't let go. I could not stop reading this book. There was nothing too suspenseful about the story but the mystery surrounding Kara's stalker and her sister's death had me intrigued. Plus, everyone in this book was refreshing and interesting. From Kara to Charlie to Noelle and Kara's mother.

The author did keep me guessing as to the identity of Kara's stalker. Which I really liked because it kept me on my toes with excitement. Not going to say anymore on this as I don't want to give anything away. I can not wait to see what Shannon comes out with next. From Where I Watch You it looks like a best seller! ( )