Behave by Andromeda Romano-Lax

• This novel explores the real life impact of a highly focused scientific study of human behavior.  It looks at what is lost in a purely scientific approach involving people.
• The main character is not completely likable.
• While the book is a lengthy read, it the pacing kept me interesting.

Gulp by Mary Roach

• Reading this book is an adventure that can get gross, but is interesting throughout.  
• Roach explores the science and pseudo-science of digestion.  I especially enjoyed the exploration of if a human could live after being swallowed by a whale and the legends of stomach snakes.
• After hearing so much about Mary Roach, I'm glad I finally read one of her books.
• Warning: There were some gross-out sections of this book for me that I wasn't able to read right after eating.

Lily and the Octopus by Steven Rowley

• This book is about an endearing weirdo who explores the love he has for his dog.
• There is something oddly charming about the main character and how he processes his dog's terminal condition.
• This book deals with heavy material, while maintaining a forward focus that celebrates the life of a beloved pet. 

A Fine Imitation by Amber Brock

• This novel tells the story of a woman who struggles to meet family expectations and find her own personal happiness.
• I enjoyed the early 20th-century setting because of the focus on etiquette and protocol that clashes with the less structured culture developing toward the end of the novel.

Landline by Rainbow Rowell

• This novel focuses on the history of a relationship between a husband and wife.
• I enjoyed the focus on how the relationship evolved.
• This book examines what it means to make another person a priority in your life.
• The novel is heavily character-driven.

We Are All Completely Beside Ourselves by Karen Joy Fowler

• This novel is about the relationship between humans and animals, specifically chimpanzees.
• I enjoyed how key elements of the main character's past were slowly revealed.  It shaped how processed events in the story.  I enjoyed the layered feel of the story.
• The main character is both relatable at times, while unrelatable at others.

The Widow by Fiona Barton

• I love stories with creepy characters.  This novel has a couple of creepers.
• The novel starts out slowly and builds.
• Barton takes a close look at how the media uses human interest stories about horrible tragedies to boost sales.