Book Catch Up
Phew, it's been a hot minute since I've updated this blog! I blame getting the flu and being super busy with freelance writing work. But enough excuses. Let's catch up.
January and February Reading Recap
(WHERE IS THE TIME GOING?)
January
Educated by Tara Westover, 5/5
If you've never read a memoir before, this is a great place to start. It's shocking, frustrating, and inspiring. I ramble about it more here.
The Perfect Son by Lauren North, 4/5
A domestic thriller from a new-to-me author with a GREAT twist.
Annihilation by Jeff VanderMeer, 3/5
Loved the Natalie Portman movie, was underwhelmed by the first book in the trilogy. Kinda disappointing.
Another fun thriller! The ending did get a bit convoluted at the end, but it was still entertaining.
Nemesis Games by James S.A. Corey, 5/5
The Expanse series remains one of the best science fiction novel series AND television shows right now. This is the 5th book in the series and so far, my favorite.
February
You're Not Listening by Kate Murphy, 5/5
*thank you Celadon Books for providing a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
Nonfiction can be hit-or-miss, especially if they veer too much into preachy self-help territory. I loved You're Not Listening because it didn't do that, and had tons of research to back up the points Murphy made. So interesting and such an important topic.
The Nickel Boys by Colson Whitehead, 5/5
Finally got to strike this one off my list! It's much-hyped book and for good reason. The Nickel Boys isn't an easy read (there's violence, sexual assault, and racism) but it's necessary. Prepare to cry.
The Wedding Date by Jasmine Guillory, 3/5
I really enjoyed The Proposal, which is actually the sequel to Guillory's first rom-com. This one was okay, but I think the writing improved a lot in the second book. There's 2 more in the series I'm looking forward to trying.
A Darker Shade of Magic by V.E. Schwab, 4/5
Holy world-building fantasy series, Batman! ADSOM is about magic and multiple worlds, set within (I assume) 19th century-ish London. Though a bit slow to start for me, I found myself hooked and ready to read the rest of the trilogy.
Field Notes on Love by Jennifer E. Smith, 4/5
I needed a YA romance to shake things up, and this book delivered. Two young strangers on a train, traveling cross-country from New York to California. What can go right...and wrong? This was a satisfying and heartwarming romance.
Little Women by Louisa May Alcott, 5/5
I mentioned in this Instagram post that I'd never read the full Little Women, only a junior readers/abridged version. SHOCKING, I know. Well, I read it, and I unexpectedly loved it. Of course a couple elements are dated, but there are so many themes and messages that are relevant to this day. Looooved it.
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