I finished school a month and a half ago.
Since that time I've spent a ridiculous amount of time with my nose in the pages of books. In fact, I've read eleven novels. I didn't get the opportunity to read for my own enjoyment as much as I would have liked the past, I don't know six years, due to college. Now, it seems I have gone off the deep end. Since I am aware I HAVE to accomplish things in life besides reading, I use Overdrive and listen to novels while I run, craft for our wedding, do dishes or fold laundry.
I've never been one to be a harsh critic about books. However, there are certain novels I adore beyond all others and some that I'm just kind of "meh" about. Additionally, there are many series I have read that I'm slightly embarrassed to admit I liked. But anyhow, here is a peek into what I've been reading lately:
1. Me Before You, by Jojo Moyes
Who should read it: EVERYONE SHOULD!!!!
My rating: 5 plus stars
I don't like to give away a single detail about books. I'm more of a pick a book and don't even read the back cover kind of girl. Anyhow, a professor recommended this book to me. If I'm being honest, I would have NEVER picked this book on my own. I'm totally guilty of judging a book by it's cover and the cover on "Me Before You" is just not my preference. However, this book is SO SUPER GOOD. I think I'm going to add it to my list of most favorite books ever. #1: It's a love story #2: There are many lessons to be learned from this book #3: You're going to cry for 3 1/2 hours when you read it #4: You will not be able to put it down!
A Favorite Quote: "You only get one life. It's actually your duty to live it as fully as possible."
2. The Cuckoo's Calling, by Robert Galbraith (The Comoran Strike Novels)
Who should read it: Murder mystery fans, JK Rowling fanatics
My rating: 4 stars
I'm not a big reader of mystery books but I had to check out this series since JK Rowling is the author. I was pleasantly surprised and quite liked both this book and "The Silkworm" (the 2nd book of the series). I think I'll read the third one when it comes out this coming October.
3. City of Bones, by Cassandra Clare (The Mortal Instruments Series)
Who should read it: Those who enjoy teen fantasy fiction with vampires, werewolves and all that jazz.
My Rating: 2-3 stars
Here is another one of those damn YA series I should know better than read but just can't stop! Yes, I read all six books. Yes, I secretly enjoyed them. However, I did not like them nearly as much as I liked The Infernal Devices Series by this same author. I will admit I still cried at the end of the series despite my frustration of sometimes liking the series all while thinking parts of story were super lame. I'm a total sucker. A story of war and love. A great series for middle school and early high school students. And yes, I bet I will read the new series by the same author coming out soon.
4. The Silver Linings Playbook, by Matthew Quick
Who should read it: Someone looking for a light and enjoyable read. Good vacation book.
My rating: 3 stars
A nice, easy read. Would be an excellent book to read while on vacation and traveling. This is one of the few books where I watched the movie before I read the book. Strangely enough, I think I preferred the movie to the book (that NEVER happens). A story of overcoming obstacles, moving on and finding love
A Favorite Quote: "I am practicing being kind over right."
5. Dark Places, by Gillian Flynn
Who should read it: Murder mystery fans and those who like twisted storylines.
My rating: 3 stars (but better than Gone Girl)
Okay, I very much disliked Gone Girl. In fact, I thought I would not read another book by Gillian Flynn again. It's evident she is a good author and there is no doubt her novels will take you by surprise. But, I was super ticked at the end of Gone Girl. That book was so morally wrong! I ended up reading Dark Places because it was the only book I was somewhat interested in that was available on Overdrive. Also, I wanted something that would be addicting and have a good hook. I was confident a book by Gillian Flynn would serve that ticket. I enjoyed Dark Places much more than Gone Girl. Just like Gone Girl, the story is twisted, sad and will take you by surprise.
6. The Giver, by Lois Lowry (Giver Quartet)
Who should read it: Everyone, it's a classic. Fans of The Hunger Games, The Divergent Series and dystopian societies.
My Rating: 4-5 stars
I realize most people likely read this book in Junior High or High School- I had not. My sister, an English teacher, was pretty much appalled that I hadn't so I decided to read the entire Quartet. The Giver was my favorite of the Quartet, but they were all excellent, fast reads. It was interesting how all four novels intertwined.
Books on my list to read next:
-The Girl On the Train, by Paula Hawkins
-The Maze Runner, by James Dashner
-The Last Letter From Your Lover, By JoJo Moyes
-At the Water's Edge, By Sara Gruen
