Welcome to What I've Been Reading, where I share my (quick and personal) thoughts on what I've been reading this past month. For specifics (plot summary, etc.) about each book, click on the provided links.
All Roads Lead to Austen: A Yearlong Journey with Jane by Amy Elizabeth Smith (3 stars)
I liked this book. I really did. It just was a little too slow-paced for me. And the author rambled a bit too much for my liking, her thoughts not always feeling too well-organized. I did love the idea behind the book though. And I gained some fun facts from it. Though the few stars, I definitely think it is worth reading if you are an Austen fan. Or even if you are just a fan of books! It's definitely a book-lovers book.
Against the Tide by Elizabeth Camden (3 stars)
This was my first Camden novel and I enjoyed it. It was a simple story and had a happy ending, two things that make for easy reading when I need it. I definitely think I will check out more of her novels. The novel wasn't anything earth-shattering for me writing-wise, hence the three stars, but I enjoyed learning about a topic new to me, opium addiction in the 1800's. Overall, simple, happy and historical.
Choose Higher Ground by Henry B. Eyring (5 stars)
I love Henry B Eyring. His teachings are always powerful and heart-felt. I don't think I've ever seen him speak without shedding a tear or two. He will always hold a special place in my heart. This book is a collection of some of his talks. Each talk is unique and special on its own, but together they point toward always looking up, always reaching higher, always choosing higher ground. I loved it. It will be a book I reference often.
Prelude for a Lord (The Gentlmen Quartet #1) by Camille Elliot (3 stars)
I almost gave this book 2 stars, but I finally settled on 3 stars. I think my lower rating is due to my busier-than-usual life right now. In my spare moments, I didn't find myself excitedly picking it up. When I did pick it up, I had a difficult time getting into it, not really enjoying it. Because this book falls into one of my favorite genres, and because this was my first Elliot novel, I will give another one of hers a try.
The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin (4.5 stars)
I loved this book! It was wonderful! I don't know how to describe it. Everytime I try, I fail miserably. I will just say, if you are a book-lover, read this book! (*Some language)
A Fatal Grace (Chief Inspector Armand Gamache #2) by Louise Penny (4 stars)
After Still Life, I wasn't quite sure I would pick up the second in this series, but I heard, yet again, another recommendation for it, so I gave it another try. I am glad I did! I enjoyed this book so much more than the first one and am excited to read the third! If you're a mystery fan, check this series out. I think you'll enjoy it. (*Some language)
Bel Canto by Ann Patchett (2 stars)
This book was a disappointment for me. It came so highly recommended, but I just didn't like it. Especially the ending! What?! I know that isn't much of a review. Let's see. It's about a hostage situation involving an assortment of characters from around the world, including a Japanese business man and a famous American opera singer. I should say, this book made me think. I am still thinking about it. That does make for a good book, but overall, again, I just didn't like it. If I had skipped it all together, I don't feel I would have missed it.
A Few of the Girls: Stories by Maeve Binchy (4 stars)
This collection of short stories made me miss Maeve Binchy. She passed away in 2012. This collection of stories was published after her passing. I am glad they were. She is a wonderful story teller, whether they come in novel form or short story. She captures human nature like no other. She is definitely missed.
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