For me October is the first month of true fall reading. This is the time I start to veer towards the heavier reads that I can curl up and lose myself in while sipping a hot drink, avoiding the colder weather. My choices this month however did not follow this pattern, whether it is to do with the weather or current social climate I am not quite ready for the heavy hitters just yet. My list has a couple of well know favorite authors of mine but has also introduced new authors, even their debut novels which is always fun.
You will notice a difference this month as I try a new format for the post. Instead of highlighting the "Best of" novel I thought I would try a ranking system. The thought behind it is that even if a book does not make my "Best of" list you may want to know a little about it and make your own choice to read or not to read. I will rank each book out of 5 with a small blurb to flesh out the post and give you more options for your TBR piles.
So without further ado ...let's begin!
The Twilight Wife by AJ Banner
This mystery is based out of the Pacific Northwest where a women, living with her husband, is recovering from a traumatic brain injury following a diving accident. The plot follows the woman as she slowly starts to get her memory back and is starting to remember a very different version of the accident than those around her want her to believe.
This book was a quick read but I found it somewhat predictable in the twists and turns of events.
Ranking: 2/5
If it Bleeds by Stephen King (audiobook)
This is a book made up of four short stories each that, in true Stephen King fashion, incorporate seemingly normal situations that spiral into the unknown.
Unfortunately for me this collection fell short for me with only one of the stories drawing me in. The title story "If it Bleeds" brings back the character of Holly Gibney who King fans will remember from the MR. MERCEDES series and continues her story after THE OUTSIDER novel. I love the character and felt that this short story did a great job at making readers want to hear more from her.
Ranking: 3.5/5
The Bodies in the Library by Marty Wingate
This cozy mystery is the first in a new series based in Bath, England and is centered around a book curator who finds herself caught up in a murder mystery. A likeable heroine and a gorgeous setting with a little romance thrown in makes for a winning whodunnit. I have already added the second book to my wish list.
Ranking: 4/5
Beach Read by Emily Henry
This is the one that had me eager to get home to continue reading! Such a fresh contemporary romance with a smart storyline full of feeling. I loved how the characters each had hurdles to overcome while navigating through their obvious attraction. GOOD STUFF!
Ranking: 5/5
Lethal White by Robert Galbriath
This is the fourth installment in the Comoran Strike series by the author a.k.a JK Rowling and it did not disappoint. The series itself follows the main character, Comoran Strike, a troubled veteran turned private detective, and his partner Robin. The chemistry between these two, and undercurrents of romantic feelings, are addictive is one of the reasons I keep coming back. The suspenseful story was woven with intrigue and I enjoy the way the author makes the city of London a character of its own through the descriptive narrative.
Ranking: 4/5
Darling Rose Gold by Stephanie Wrobel
A story the looks at Munchhausen by Proxy Syndrome from both points of view, parent and child. Interesting for sure but I think because I read this after seeing the miniseries THE ACT, which is based on the same syndrome, it seemed that it had nothing new to offer.
Ranking: 3/5
The Henna Artist by Alka Josi
Based on the story of a woman in 1950's India and her journey from survivor of domestic violence to a sought after henna artist to an elite clientele. Although I did learn about this art form the story itself was missing something for me and fell flat. The author does a lovely job of depicting India and the cast system which always surprises me with how severe it can be.
Ranking: 3/5
According to Yes by Dawn French (audiobook)
Picture a vibrant English nanny now working for a posh Park Avenue New York family and you think how could it go wrong right?? Me too, I was wrong. Even with the author herself, and her gorgeous voice and personality, did nothing to make this book any better for me. And I really wanted to like it.
Ranking: 2/5
The Book of Lost Names by Kristin Harmel
Another history lesson here, this one is Paris circa 1942, and surrounds the life a young Jewish girl who finds herself becoming a talented forger. Very interesting story of the way Jewish children were being saved by this group of individuals and taken to Switzerland to escape the German Occupation of France. The author did extensive research and presents factual tidbits seamlessly woven into an engaging story.
Ranking: 3.5/5
Hardcore Twenty-Four by Janet Evanovich
I've been reading this long running series for years and can always count on it for a rousing romp and lots of laughs. The story itself can be far-fetched but the characters are so likeable that it is a treat to dive back into their lives.
Ranking: 3/5
Well there you have it folks, THE LIST. Drop me line and let me know what you think of the new format, I'd love the feedback.
Happy Reading!
Comments
Post a Comment
We welcome your comments and feedback!