Review: Big Little Lies

Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

3.75 stars. I really enjoyed it, although maybe not quite as much as the last two I read by her (hence the 3.75 stars instead of a 4). Like her past books, I couldn't put it down! I was constantly looking for excuses to listen and read it. I was very intrigued and I appreciated how she handled topics such as abuse, assault, and even beauty and struggles with weight. I loved the friendship between the women and each of the three main characters and their story arcs. Moriarty really has a way of getting to the heart of an issue and describing things in a way that I feel like most women can relate to.

I did doc it a little because there was a little too much cattiness and gossip between the women. While maybe it was fairly realistic, I just don't like it. It had a very satisfying ending as well. I am really looking forward to watching the miniseries and reading more of her books!

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Review: Falling Kingdoms

Falling Kingdoms by Morgan Rhodes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

4.5 stars. I like Game of Thrones and I loved how this reminded me of the TV show (the book somewhat as well, but this is definitely written in a simpler style than the books as it is intended for a YA audience). It was its own story, but it definitely had the elements that I enjoy from Game of Thrones (political intrigue, betrayals, deaths from unexpected people, etc.). Although it is sad when characters I like die, I appreciate books where anything can happen and nobody is safe. Isn't that how life really is? I loved the characters and the world. It was just complex enough for me to have to pay attention but not become too confused.

One criticism I had heard about the book was that it was sort of your typical YA fantasy and to similar to what is already out there, but I didn't find that to be the case. I thought the story was unique and clearly and exciting beginning for a long new series that I can't wait to read more from. I already got the second book out and I'm listening to it now! I hadn't planned to read this whole series right away, but I am now thinking I might binge-read it. :) It's a good one!!

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Review: And Only to Deceive

And Only to Deceive by Tasha Alexander
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

2.5 stars. A bit of a ridiculous book that was ok if you can suspend your disbelief. The main character was somewhat annoying, but the story was entertaining. I have no idea why it was on my to-be-read shelf on my phone for audiobooks, but my randomized system chose this book, so I read it. It was alright, but rather silly. :)

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Review: The Husband's Secret

The Husband's Secret by Liane Moriarty
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Another surprise! I've been reading a lot of books that surprise me lately, which has been nice (especially since they've all been pleasant surprises). I found the characters to be very relatable. There were a lot of lines that stood out to me and made me think, "Wow. That's exactly how I would feel if I were in her situation." I was mostly satisfied with the ending, although I did still have a few questions. I just really didn't expect to enjoy Liane Moriarty's books, but I couldn't believe how much I did. I think it has convinced me to read her most popular book, Big Little Lies. Additionally, I heard that this one is going to be made into a movie with Blake Lively, so I hope that they do a good job with it. Anyway, yes, a good book! Definitely recommended for those who enjoy women's stories, mild mysteries, and compelling writing. :)

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Review: The Impossible Knife of Memory

The Impossible Knife of Memory by Laurie Halse Anderson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

3.75 if I'm going really specific. I read it for the YSU English Festival and I really enjoyed it. We got to hear Laurie Halse Anderson speak and meet her afterwards. She was awesome! I did have a hard time putting the book down at times and I liked the fact that the chapters were really short. The only thing that brought my rating down a little was that I had to read it so fast because I wanted to finish before the English Festival so I skimmed some parts and couldn't take in the full picture of what was happening. It has much more to do with my personal reading experience than the book itself.

In person, Laurie had a wonderful message and was very funny and honest. I loved her and I'm looking forward to reading more by Laurie Halse Anderson!

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Review: X

X by Ilyasah Shabazz
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a YSU English Festival read, and it surprised me. I wasn't really that interested in it because although Malcolm X is fascinating, I wasn't sure that I'd be all that interested in his childhood. However, it was way better than I expected it to be. It was well-written and well-paced. I was interested the entire time and I learned a lot! I'm glad my students got a chance to read it as well. I'm looking forward to meeting Kekla Magoon on Wednesday!

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Review: The Ocean at the End of the Lane

The Ocean at the End of the Lane by Neil Gaiman
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love Neil Gaiman! His books are just creepy enough and so engaging. I forgot how much I love his writing. This was a intriguing story that for some reason reminded me slightly of A Wrinkle in Time (except creepier!). I think it was the women in it that made the connection for me. He is a great audiobook narrator as well. He reads his own novels, so audiobooks are a good way to go with him. It's been a long time since I've read anything by Gaiman, and I really need to read more by him. This was a good one!

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