FINISHED SINCE THE LAST UPDATE:
One stunning novel, one that soothed my soul, and one that left me entirely underwhelmed and somewhat confused – that is what you call taking the good with the bad.
DID NOT FINISH:
Remember how kings used to believe that they were second only to God and that their reigns were ordained by God? Mark Adler takes that idea and runs with it in his reimagining of the Hundreds’ Year War. In this version, angels and demons play an active role in the war between France and England. I gave this behemoth 200 pages before I finally accepted that it was not doing anything for me. Plus, it was really confusing, and I did not have the heart or interest to try to keep everything straight. Between the various levels of Hell, demons versus devils, angels, fallen angels, Free Hell, and the intricacies of 1300s’ monarchies and politics, it was too much for me. I would feel bad about this because it was not as if I hated the book. I was enjoying what I was reading, but it was a slog and for that I am much happier having put it aside for something a bit simpler.
CURRENT READ:
I need a good re-read and with the third book finally releasing later this month, it is a perfect time to get back into the series.
CURRENT LISTEN:
Time to learn about those who think our President-Elect will solve all their problems.
UP NEXT:
I suspect that it is going to be nothing but light, comforting reads for a while.
So, what are you reading?
I just started Swing Time (audiobook). I’m trying to cram a ton of books in before the end of the year (I want as many candidates for my top 10 lists as possible!) and I really hope I have time to squeeze in Hillbilly Elegy. It seems like everyone is talking about that book post-election.
I will be curious what you think of Swing Time. Enjoy and good luck!
Stunning, Soothing, Underwhelmed LOVE IT, lol. Enjoy the rest of the week.
Thanks, Marce! You too!
So which soothed your soul? I need more of that.
I am obsessed with the Queen of the Tearling! I read my ARC of the third a few weeks ago and I need to reread it asap so I can try to coherently review it. Definitely not what I expected.
I stopped after the first Tearling book because I wanted to wait until all three were out to continue the story. I am thoroughly enjoying my re-read though.
Honestly, The Charm Bracelet soothed my soul. Totally not my bag normally. I usually cannot stand the sappy women’s lit where everything comes out so perfectly, but there was something about the message in this one which resonated with me. I needed a little hope in my life.
I’ve been curious about Faithful. I’ve never read anything by that author.
I’m all about the light reads right now, too. In fact, I’m about to start getting into my holiday books. I need something with cheer and happiness.
I read one of her previous novels and was not a huge fan. This one I loved. It was just so beautiful. I would highly recommend it!
I really loved Hillbilly Elegy…I learned a lot about a population I didn’t know anything about and it was quite eye-opening. Plus, it’s just a good memoir aside from the social analysis.
I’m looking forward to diving into it in greater detail!
Light, comforting reads sounds like the way to go. Have a great week!
Thanks, Kelly! You too!