An extremist conservative political climate which limits the voices of women (literally, they have to wear counters on their wrists and can only speak 100 words per day) serves as the setting for this book. In addition to the counters, women are not allowed to read, write, or hold jobs. This premise I have described should be enough to spike your interest... as it did mine. As far-fetched as it seems, Jean, our protagonist, and her story (which you can know if you read this book!! No spoilers here!!) remind readers that the power of using one’s voice (literally and figuratively) is crucial. Don’t back down when injustice is done unto you or others. Because before you know it, it might be too late.

I adored Amy, the protagonist of this novel, and her love for books and reading. There were many literary references sprinkled throughout this contemporary fiction read and I found myself excited when I came across them. However, that was the only thing I loved about this book. Overall, I found it to be too cutesy and trite and did not enjoy the story. I recommend skipping this one! There are way better reads from this genre out there.

This one is definitely a slow starter, but around the 45% mark it takes off. And when I say it takes off, it takes off fast. If you are willing to stick with it, you are in for a treat. Throughout this novel, major topics are addressed including mental illness, institutionalization, and the ever constant struggle for those who do not have mental illness to accept and understand those who do. Overall, this is a perfect psychological thriller which I highly recommend!

I want to preface this review with saying this book is graphic. There is some truly vulgar and gross imagery that is present in the book starting on page one. However, if you can get past that, Mostly Dead Things is one of the most beautifully written stories I have ever read. I truly can’t believe that it is not more popular. The main theme of this novel is grief and how different people deal with that emotion. Ultimately, there is redemption for our characters, but it is not an easy road for them, to say the least. If you can stomach the harshness that this novel brings, you are guaranteed to be rewarded with a story that will remind you of the importance of forgiveness and love.

Dark matter is unlike any novel I have ever read. It is a sci-fi thriller that will truly have you questioning everything you think you know about the universe. I can’t say much without giving away spoilers. Just know that this book needs to be on your radar. I can’t wait to read Recursion, another novel of Crouch’s in the near future!

I am rewriting my review for this book and revisiting my star rating, as well. I just learned there are two different endings for this book - the one published in the United Kingdom and the one published in the United States. Obviously, I read the American published ending and it was such a let down. I would even go as far as saying it was a cop-out. If given the opportunity, I would love to read the alternative ending because I did invest time into this story. The author takes the time to develop the characters of Alex and Anya throughout the novel and (without spoiling the story) it felt like it was all for nothing. Don't waste your time with this one!

The plot of this book was crazy and I stayed up late last night just to finish it. I could not go to sleep until I knew exactly what happened to both of the main characters. As it is told from two narrators — Emma (past) and Jane (present) — in short chapters, I could get through many pages quickly. In fact, despite the novel having 400+ pages, I would still consider it to be a quick read. You will not be able to put this one down! I guarantee it!

This is the best celebrity memoir that I have ever read. Being only 19, I never truly understood how big of a star Elton John is. It was interesting to read about his successes that took place many decades before I was even born and after. What I really loved about this book though is that nothing is sugar-coated. Elton talks about his abusive childhood, drug addictions, eating disorders, and anger issues candidly. He makes sure that the whole picture is displayed and is unashamed of his faults. He is a true philanthropist, musician, and culture icon who continues to influence the world. Pick up this book and read about this incredible man!

Following multiple divorces in their friend group, Jessica and Mitch decide to do an experiment with their marriage in order to avoid the same fate. This experiment includes challenging monogamy. Is it realistic to be in an exclusive relationship or are new experiences necessary in order to spice up life? This love story is funny and is an interesting insight to the modern day concept of marriage and dating. Make sure to put this one on your list and grab it when it is published on 3.17.2020!

This book was very well written and I was shocked when I found out that this was Tudor’s debut novel. The character development was amazing and (at least from my perspective) the plot was unsolvable. My least favorite thing about reading thrillers is when you figure out the ending too early and I certainly had no idea what was coming with this one. Why did I give it three stars then? First, it reminded me too much of other books I have read. I kind of had feelings of deja vu while working my way through this one. Also, I think the author tried too hard to tie up all the lose ends in the final chapters. I wish some of the revelations were left a mystery as it would have made the entire story more realistic. Overall, I do think this book is worth reading, but some of my own reading preferences kept me from rating it higher.