Tuesday, August 28, 2018

The Wanderers by Meg Howrey



  • This novel is about three very different astronauts preparing for an expedition to Mars.
  • Science fiction fans will enjoy the strong science and technology elements of this novel.
  • While there is both action and character development, the novel concludes unexpectedly.  While the ending was not immediately satisfying, after a few days I've grown to embrace the ending.

Homesick for Another World by Ottessa Moshfegh




  • This collection of short stories left me wanting more.
  • This collection is cohesive in tone and themes, yet each story distinctly stands on its own.
  • I look forward to Moshfegh's future novels and shorter works.

Friday, August 17, 2018

The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah


  • This novel focuses on a young girl who moves to Alaska.  Her parents are seeking a new beginning.
  • While old demons follow the family to Alaska, this novel is a story of this young girl's growth into a strong woman who creates her own path.
  • This novel kept me engaged and hanging on each new development.

Standard Deviation by Katherine Heiny


  • Novels can often feel formulaic with expected romantic complications and endings.  However, Heiny's Standard Deviation creates its own path.
  • This novel is about the relationship between a man, his wife, and his ex-wife.
  • I kept expecting the novel to take a well worn plot turn like so many other novels, but it never did.

Monday, August 6, 2018

Something in the Water by Catherine Steadman


  • This is thriller focused on a newlywed's experiences after a bag full of cash and jewels in the ocean.
  • I kept rooting for the main character even as she continued to exercise poor judgement.
  • Side note: This is the first book I've listened to on Audible, and LOVE the experience.  I've used public library eaudiobook apps in the past, but they've been glitchy.

How to be Famous by Caitlin Moran


  • This is a fast-paced novel about a young women finding her own.
  • While set in the mid-90s, it feels very modern.
  • No character is perfect or completely likable, which makes the book endearing.