No 5 Star reads lately, but plenty of enjoyable books on my list this month!
In this book a novice journalist is called upon by one of the world’s most famous movie stars to write her life story. Evelyn Hugo is a star, and has lived a life of scandal. The writer interviewing her has no idea what she’s in for as this story has never been told by Evelyn before. I loved the scandal, gossip, and laughs the book gave me. I loved that it was a quick and easy read, would be great on a beach. I even became emotional a couple of times as well. This book also teaches you to appreciate people and what the important things in life are.
"Inside personal look at this illness"
I was not expecting this book to be so fascinating. This book is about a young woman who develops anorexia and shares her journey at her treatment facility on 17 Swann Street. It is written in an incredibly easy to read way and the book went fast as it is under 300 pabes. Anna’s thoughts, urges, impulses, Love, are clearly seen on every page and you are battling this illness with her. The book dives into Anna’s story and develops her character and family very well but it also discusses the other characters living with her and their story. As a doctor, I was impressed at the accuracy of the description of the symptoms and the medical problems that occurred with these women. I had to go look up if this story was a true story because it seemed so accurate. Although it’s hard to read about people who are sick, this book is a work of art taking you on this journey of eating disorders and as the book says, “There is no tragedy to suffering, it is just as happiness is, to be present for both, that is life”
This is a solid psychological thriller that is twisted and leaves you wondering. I enjoyed the book the entire time and it definitely brings the scary to the table. A married couple moves to a new neighborhood and the wife believes a murderer lives next door, however, no one else believes her. The wife might not be the most reliable narrator but I can’t give any more away. If you are a psychological thriller junky looking for your next pick, this one won’t let you down.
The Mothers 3.5/5
This book is about three African American teenagers growing up, making mistakes, falling in love , and trying to figure out life. Tragic events happen and these events shape their lives. The story is powerful but it’s an interesting read because it’s also told through the eyes of the “church ladies” or “the mothers.” So it’s also a little gossipy and sassy. There were a few parts especially that really resonated me and some paragraphs that hit home and made me cry. I give it four stars because it’s a wonderful, well-written story and a great discussion piece.
This book is the story of lost girls who worked as secret agents in WWII. It’s an enjoyable historical fiction book and I was captivated by the main storyline and wondering what happened to these girls. That being said, the story was a bit predictable and I wasn’t completely satisfied with the ending . I did love the character development of the three central women who narrate the story. The time periods jump but it’s easy enough to follow, and the action and adventure is always high. I felt like there were no low points in the storyline. How the women come to terms with their disadvantages and learn to be strong and brave makes an inspiring read. I recommend this for historical fiction lovers. .
The Suspect 3/5
In this book two girls disappear in Thailand and a reporter and detective do what it takes to find out the truth. A little unbelievable with the coincidental circumstances. While I don’t need every book to be believable the story was very realistic and I felt like I was a part of the team investigating until the circumstances became too coincidental. Somewhat choppy writing style, it reminded me of reading a play with the back and forth dialogue so quick, not necessarily bad but I didn’t enjoy that style as much. Overall a good mystery story and I enjoyed reading it.
My Lovely Wife 3/5
This book was so buzzed about on social media and in the psychological thriller read world and it was just ok. It was definitely a strange and unique read and I couldn’t tell who I empathize the most with at the end. A couple commits murders but it turns on them. I spent most of the book wondering WHY. The ending was suspenseful and interesting, the book flowed well, but it left a sick feeling in my stomach.
Perhaps my most controversial book review yet. Sex drugs and rock and roll with an uninteresting love story. The characters are interchangeable, weak, whiney . The story is predictably flat, every page is the same. It gets one star because the idea of family is heartwarming and one character was moderately interesting. I am for sure in the minority based on the online reviews but seriously this could barely hold my attention.
Have you read any of these?
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