Severance by Ling Ma

• While there is a bit of action, the focus of the book is on the main character and her story.
• I enjoyed the elements of the novel that go into bookmaking as the main character is employed in this industry.
• This book reminded me of Station Eleven.  It is literary fiction that looks as the world after a breakdown in society.

The Book of Essie by Meghan Maclean Weir

• The main character of the book is a central cast member of a reality TV show, making the book feel very modern.
• This book addresses the impact that the camera has on a young girl in a very religious family.
• This is a quick read.

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.

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.

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.