This is going to be short and sweet because my daughter and I are two episodes away from finishing Pieces of Her (book related!) and she almost never wants to watch TV so we are seizing on this.
Obviously there’s a lot going on in the world, and I might come back in a few days to document my thoughts on that, but in the meantime, I’m focusing on books because they’re a nice respite. I am struggling with nonfiction, though, even the one I’m currently reading which I have been so excited for. I genuinely just want to escape.
And if you don’t believe me, I read a romance book this month. Colleen Hoover. Might even read another one. I don’t know. Everything has gone crazy.
I guess that’s a nice way to jump into the reviews.
Heart Bones by Colleen Hoover. Found this through last month’s linkup, and it was a great way to pass a day. Super fast, very predictable story. If this is what all of her books are like, I get the appeal. I just don’t know that I can read too many of them.
Long Way Down by Jason Reynolds. Another one this linkup reminded me to read (the other, The Kind Worth Killing, was put on hold which I promptly forgot I did and then wound up buying). Another fast read, mostly because of the way it’s written (in verse), and it’s an excellent, outstanding book. Read it.
Who Is Maud Dixon? by Alexandra Andrews. What a fucked up little book this was. So twisty and turny, and the ending was actually a complete surprise. I wouldn’t necessarily classify it as a thriller or mystery. It’s definitely its own thing, and I definitely recommend it.
Finlay Donovan Knocks ‘Em Dead by Elle Cosimano. This book is bonkers. I guess I’d classify it as a cozy mystery but it’s so out of the realm of reality, it’s basically just insane. It’s a fun read even if Finlay gets to be a bit tedious. It’s fine. I will read the third one because there’s no way there isn’t going to be a third one.
Upgrade by Blake Crouch. A NetGalley book I read on time! Hooray for me! There is a reason Blake Crouch is one of the few science fiction writers I will read, and this book is exactly why. It’s such a great story, albeit a little science-heavy for me at times. It comes out in July if you’re inclined to read it.
These Toxic Things by Rachel Howzell Hall. I’d sort of classify this along the same lines as Maud Dixon, but probably a little more thriller/mystery-ish. So well written, even if I did figure out a lot, but there was one twist I did not see coming at all and I can’t say much because it affects the end which, if I’m being honest, I did not particularly like. The rest of the book was great, though.
Highway Blue by Ailsa McFarlane. Meh. It’s definitely a character-driven book; there’s not much of a plot at all. She’s an excellent writer but the book went almost nowhere and it was kind of tedious. Thankfully it was short. Not my favorite of the month at all.
Currently reading: The Nineties by Chuck Klosterman. Fun fact: we have the same birthday.
So that’s it for me. Now it’s your turn. Link up and show us your books! And don’t forget to visit my co-host Steph (say happy birthday month while you’re there, too) and some other bloggers. Mark your calendars for April 12 for the next one and there’s something else logistic I’m forgetting but I’m sure Steph knows.
Kelly says
A friend recommended Heart Bones to me, but I haven’t read it yet. Colleen Hoover’s books are a hit or miss for me, but I’m glad you enjoyed that one!
Anne says
I’ve seen Maud Dixon on Kindle sale a couple of times but hesitated – I’m going to have to give it a go next time! And I have the 2nd Finlay Donovan on my shelf but haven’t picked it up yet because much as I loved the 1st one, I think you definitely have to be in the right mood for it…
Anthea Booysen says
I saw Pieces of Her is on Netflix – it looks good! I’m looking for a new series to enjoy.
These Toxic Things sounds like a good thriller, I’m adding it to my TBR list.
Shea says
Long Way Down, man I loved that one. Jason Reynolds is just the best. I still need to read the first Finlay Donovan, I don’t know how I haven’t gotten to that one yet!
Carly says
I’m hoping to read Long Way Down sometime this year, every time I’ve had it from the library I never end up starting it in time– hopefully soon.
Dara says
I’m happy you read Long Way Down! I think you were reminded of that one from me!
Dara recently posted…Grumps + Kids – My Favorite Theme in Books
Jill says
Maud Dixon was so messed up in all the best ways
SMD says
I was up in the air on Maud Dixon, I think I’ll try it.
I have These Toxic Things, it was my Amazon reads (is that what it’s called? when you get a free book on the first of the month?) and it keeps getting pushed down because of my over netgalley-ing
Amy D. says
I need to read a Colleen Hoover novel one of these days. My TBR list is so long. As the saying goes “so many books, so little time” or something like that.
Amy D. recently posted…Books Read in January 2022
Audrey says
Last night I discovered The Gilded Age on TV and I never watch TV but now I’m hooked. Lol
Long Way Down is and has been on my list forever. I need to read it.
Audrey recently posted…What I Read…
Confuzzled Bev says
I’ve never read a Colleen Hoover book. I can definitely imagine they’re perfect for escapism though.
The first Finlay Donavon book is on my tbr but I had no idea it wasn’t a standalone. I can’t be committing to more series!
Confuzzled Bev recently posted…What I read in February 2022
Joanne says
I haven’t read that Colleen Hoover book but I do find hers are either hit or miss for me with no real in-between. I have not yet read any Finlay Donovan books but I keep seeing them crop up and kind of feel like I need to at least try them.
mackenzie says
I’ve heard a lot of good things about Who Is Maud Dixon. Sounds interesting.
mackenzie recently posted…As The Page Turns: March Edition
Sarah says
I have the first and second Finley books on my kindle and I need to read it! It sounds like something I will like.
ShootingStarsMag says
I loved Long Way Down. I liked the first Finlay Donovan, so I do want to eventually read this one. It’s not my favorite, but it’s fun.