Fantastic Action & Mystery Books to Read

Lately I've found myself less than entertained by my usual go to genre when it comes to reading. The girly stuff just wasn't cutting it for me anymore, so last month I tried out a new genre of literature and fell in love. Action and mystery novels get your blood pumping. They always give you an element of good guys vs. bad guys, what's really going on here, what am I missing, what are the characters missing, what's going to happen?! Which means you end up reading through these books pretty quickly because you can't put them down.

Check out all the awesomeness I've been reading:


1. Come Home by Lisa Scottoline
This book was so suspenseful. From the very first chapter, you're launched into this exciting world of mystery and murder. I loved that I didn't have to wait for the action to begin. You open the book and boom, you're there. You get to know and fall in love with the characters along the way. I highly recommend this novel for anyone who likes action movies. You'd probably especially love it if you're a step-mom or have been a step-mom. The mother-daughter bonds in this novel were fascinating. Also, seeing how the step-mother-daughter bond affects future relationships for the step-mother was tough. There was always so much going on with these characters and the plot, that I never lost interest. Just when you think you've figured it all out, you realize you haven't. I love novels that keep me guessing until the end.

2. Divergent by Veronica Roth
I can easily say that dystopian fiction is one of my absolute favorite things to read. The idea of a completely different society and world existing in our future because of the bad things we live with today today (war, poverty, discrimination) is engrossing. It gives you this whole new world to consider, one that is easy to imagine because it exists within our current geographical familiarities. This book is obviously kick-ass. Whether or not you've seen the movie yet, I encourage you to get wrapped up in this novel! Can I get three cheers for a novel that has a female lead character who is strong, brave, and kind? The main character, Tris, is awesome... flawed but real. Such a good role model for (young) women- to be strong, able and always fight for the good of others.

3. Insurgent by Veronica Roth
The second novel in the Divergent trilogy is amazing. By far my favorite in the series. There's a lot more action in this book than the first one. Beyond the action and great characters, the second book really develops a great story. I can't say much without giving anything away, except to encourage you to read this book because it is SO good. And of course it ends in way that makes you run out and buy the third book the very same day you finish this one.

4. Allegiant by Veronica Roth
The final book in this series has some great action. Conspiracy theories develop and the lines are grayed between who is right and who is wrong. That being said, this was my least favorite book in the trilogy. It takes place in a new setting and some chapters are written from Tris's point of view and others are written from her boyfriend's point of view. Considering the fact that he's been a leading character in the other two novels but the books were never written from his point of view before now, makes this third book harder to read. The point of views are so different that it actually feels as though they were written by two different authors. The reading is a little choppy because the story doesn't flow as smoothly. I also hated the way the book ended. It made me wish I had never read the final book, although I didn't have much of a choice with the way the second one ended!

Have you read any great mysteries, actions or dystopian fictions lately? Which books would you recommend I try next? I definitely want to keep exploring this genre!
Happy reading, lovelies!

xoxo,
Laura

Books to Get Lost In and Books to Lose

It's that time again, finally sharing another series of book reviews. I am so very behind on my 52 books in 52 weeks project. Mostly because I am working approximately 30 hours a week more than I was when I first started this challenge. And sometimes because I pick up a book that's not very good but I just want to force myself to finish it. I need to learn how to say "no" when a book just isn't very good! Here's the amazing, the decent and the bad:

1. Full Of It by Wendy French
This book was good... in a very strange way. The story line wasn't typical, I liked the variation and the fact that it wasn't like every other book I've ever read before. Story line- girl has a big mouth and always blurts out what she's saying without thinking first. She destroys friendships and relationships on accident. Her aunt dies and she inherits a house. Girl forms real friendships with people and learns about love in it's truest form- the love a child. Some crazy twists as the end so I won't ruin it for ya!  It was very strange to read because I didn't relate much to the main character- at all, actually, and yet I still couldn't put the book down. I finished this one in less than a week!

2.  Angels by Marian Keyes
I cannot recommend this book enough. I absolutely loved it. I fell in love with the main character and her story. This is the story of Maggie, a boring, average-looking, rule-follower. This is the story and how her life falls apart when she finds out that her husband has fallen for another woman because they've grown apart and been living very distant, unhappy lives together. This is a story about your first love, your last love, your worst love, the love you thought you loved but you're so happy you didn't end up with them after all, and the love that never stops loving. This is a story about sisters, best friends, hollywood hilarities, and getting a little wild when you're trying to figure out who you are. Bonus- it's also a story about infertility, pregnancy loss, sadness and happiness. I also love how it touches on the fact that not every woman wants to be a mother- some have no desire at all, a feeling that I am not at all familiar with, but loved reading about. Let's be honest, even for those of us who want to be mothers, the thought of childbirth and motherhood is frightening even while exhilarating! Mostly, this book is a little slice of heaven and I loved getting lost in it.

3. Slicker by Lucy Jackson
Meet Desiree, the 20-something whose just found out that her father is leaving her mother, for his gay lover. Desiree is tired of her life, she's tired of her mother's sad despair, her grandfather's deteriorating health, her father's sudden decision that he's gay, and she's especially tired of her college-boyfriend when he tells her "I like you verrrrry verrry much" after she loses her virginity to him. In the middle of the night, Desiree pulls out a map, closes her eyes and points. She packs up her things, leaves her mother's apartment in New York City (where she was born and raised,) and travels across the country to Honey Creek, Kansas. She will spend the next couple of months in the middle of nowhere, surrounded by people who are unlike any other she's ever met (so close-minded and shallow- Jew's and gays are unheard of in this religious town,) and mostly, she learns about falling in love with a boy who deserves her, and staying in love with your family- even when they are crazy and unpredictable. A good read if you want to get lost in somebody else's world, but I wasn't head over heels in love with it.

4. Home for Christmas by Andrew M. Greeley
When I bought this book, I thought it was going to be amazing. The story of two childhood best friends, who have always been in love with each other. Until he enlists in the military and is sent away for years on end. Pete thinks about writing his life-long love, but never does. Then one day, Peter finds himself on a spiritual journey, on the brink of death (he is in a war, after all,) and is given another look at what his life could have been if he had stayed with her. Sounds good to me. Until I cracked open the book and discovered that every other chapter is written from the point of view of a Catholic priest-in-training. The Catholic terminology was so hard for me to understand and it's in every sentence. (I attended a Catholic church until I was 7 years old- I STILL didn't understand it.) The book was very hard to read and I didn't like the overall structure or writing of the book. After 4 weeks, I was only on page 45. I was determined to finish it before passing judgement, but I'd only make it a page or two before I got bored and put it down. Finally, I came to relax a little and accept that it's okay to not finish a book if it's not good. I'm still counting it as one of my 52, because I sure tried to finish it.

Overall, this was a great in my reading list. I loved two of the books, liked another and hated the last. Not every book is meant to be read, I suppose. Or at least not read by me! I just started on a new book and am loving it so far- so I'm glad that I put down that last one and kept on trudging through the challenge! What have you read lately that you loved?

Awesome Books to Read

Alright guys, I know it's been a while since you've seen me around here. We bought a house, moved, and waited weeks for internet to come out to our house and be installed! Lots of stress adventure and learning experiences happening around here. Who knew you had to schedule the gas company come out and restart service under a new client for your heater to work? Not us. Until it was 1 am, 55 degrees in our new house and the heater was on but not making the house any warmer.

The good news is that without internet, I got lots of reading done the last few weeks. And I have a dynamite reading list/review for y'all this week!


1. These Girls by Sarah Pekkanen
This book was AMAZING. I could not put it down and finished in in less than a week despite all the packing, moving, unpacking and working I was doing. A great read about girlfriends and the trials and insecurities women face in their 20s. You get to follow the story about three very different women (roommates) living in New York City and the friendship that forms between them. Reasons I loved this book- the characters were all different and all very real.
By the end of the book, I found myself wanting to be friends with each of them! Events in the characters lives keep you interested and engaged in their story every step of the way. And best of all, it's easy to read. The words flow freely and easily. Despite the complex women and storyline, the text is easy to understand and read. Did I mention the killer ending yet? I cannot wait to read more from this amazing author.

2. Where it Began by Ann Redisch Stampler
Where it Began tells the story of a 16 year old girl's life unfolding before her very eyes after she's found drunk, passed out, mangled on the side of the road, ejected from her boyfriends sport's car with the keys in her hand. Waking up in the hospital, she finds herself confused, can't remember the 3 hours of her life from the party she went to, to the car accident she was in, with police ready to arrest her. Worst of all, the love of her life, the boy she fell hard for the year she became pretty, the boy who made her popular and no longer invisible- that boy is nowhere to be found.
Despite the age group of the characters, I really enjoyed this book. My only issue with it was that by the half way point in the book, the reader knows something life-changing that the main character doesn't find out until close to the end. It gets a little aggravating because you just want to shake this 16 year old girl out of her love-struck stupor and slap her into reality. However I will say that the ending of the book more than makes up for this and I'm really glad to have stuck with it until the end.

3. Girl with a Pearl Earring by Tracey Chevalier
I'm pretty sure most people had this on their sophomore in high school required reading list but I took college English in high school was too busy writing essays to enjoy this book. Unfortunately I judge books based on their cover and probably wouldn't have been interested in it back then anyways. However I stumbled across this book at the thrift store with a new cover that had a picture from the movie on it which instantly made it seem sensual, scandalous and interesting. Obviously I had to get it.
Greit is a 16 year old girl forced to take a job as a maid to help support her family. She is inserted into the world of a half-happy, once well to do Dutch family who lives off the paintings the famous father (Vermeer) creates. She finds herself in a compromising position when the husband is forced to paint her for a client despite his wife's untrusting and unapproving nature. I enjoyed the scandal but even more so I enjoyed the truth in this book. While it's a fictional story, it is an all too real representation of unfulfilled marriages and the gapes people try to fill in their lives when they are unhappy. A must-read in my opinion.

4. Bergdorf Blondes by Plum Sykes
Who wants to read a story about rich NYC socialites who are privileged, rotten and selfish? Anyone who wants a good laugh. This book surprised me in a lot of ways. You find yourself relating to these women and their disastrous love lives even if you've never had a closet full of $300 jeans and Caribbean vacations via private jet planes.
This book is relatively light-hearted and fun regardless of all the tragic things that happen to the main character (she has REALLY bad taste in PH's (prospective husbands.)) Oh, minor detail back there, the two main characters of this book are on the hunt for prospective husbands. They don't actually want to get married but they really want to have a fiance' because it's the "in" thing to do. The ending of this book had me smiling ear to ear. I loved this story. So different from my own, but so entertaining. You find yourself happy for each of these girls as they find their way to real happiness (whatever that means for rich girls.)

There you have it, my most recent reads and book reviews. I hope you pick one of these up and try them for yourself because I truly loved reading each of them!

xoxo, Laura

What I'm Reading

I have been slacking so much with my 52 books in 52 weeks challenge lately. I got so caught up working on my project life album and season 9 of Grey's Anatomy on Netflix haha. I finally finished another 4 books. Here's what I've been reading; the good, the bad and the ugly.


1. Up High in the Trees by Kiara Brinkman
I cannot recommend this book enough, I thought it was absolutely awesome. Written from the perspective of an 8 year old boy with Autism, I found the content extremely fascinating. The story is honest, wonderful and heartbreaking all at the same time. Would absolutely put on the "must read" list for anyone who knows somebody with Autism; or for anybody whose interested in children, child psychology or Autism.

2. Girls in White Dresses by Jennifer Close
Reviewed by media as remarkable and delightful, I was expecting this book to be awesome. I was so disappointed at the anti climatic nature of this book. It was written in the time span of 10 years and randomly picks up and drops off with different characters at different times in their lives- not the best flow of content. Furthermore, I found it depressing. Reviews claim that it's extremely relatable but I didn't relate to anything in the book. The story follows several women through college and into their early 30's, from partying, gossiping about each other and having one-night-stands to growing up and living unremarkable lives with unfulfilled careers, and lackluster relationships that turn into marriages with men they settle with because they are getting older and are expected to get serious. I found myself hoping that the end would somehow turn it all around, that one of the girls will find somebody she truly loves and adores, or that she will find her passion for anything in life... it didn't happen. I finished the book feeling disappointed not only at my time spent reading the book, but disappointed for the actual characters and the fact that they had little depth with little to nothing remarkable or worthwhile ever happen in their lives. Definitely not relatable for passionate women who love creating, falling in love, owning successful businesses, etc.

3. Life Over Easy by Margo Candela
Natalya finds herself single at nearly 30 years old. She was expecting a proposal by her less than successful mooch of a boyfriend but instead found herself single as he dumps her for her assistant. I found the story line fast paced and engaging. You follow her adventures as she tries to get over her ex-boyfriend and find herself- so relatable if you've ever found it hard to get over a man that had nothing going for them, and we all have for reasons we no longer remember. Just when Natalya decides to be single and enjoy it, she has 4 very different men fending for her approval, while she successfully runs her own catering business. I won't ruin the ending for you, but let's say that it isn't traditional in the "finds true love" way. It certainly isn't disappointing, though! A good read for any woman with extra time to read. I will note that I couldn't relate to some of the text that has to do with her being Latina. While I think Latina women would enjoy this book even more because of this aspect, it didn't take away from my enjoyment of the novel.

4. The Difference Between You and Me by Kathleen DeMarco
If you're interested in Hollywood- the lifestyle, the glamour, the hard work, backstabbing and luck it takes to succeed there; you'd probably find this book entertaining. I am not much interested in those things so I found the first half of the book to be a little boring and the content to be unengaging. The second half of the book brings a twist that makes things a lot more exciting and enjoyable. A good read for anybody interested in Hollywood or anybody whose bored.

 

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Sorry about the image quality of that last book, I'm guessing it's not a high-volume novel because that was the only image I could find of the cover! I buy most of my books at a local thrift store and donate them back afterwards. Wouldn't want to keep the extra clutter around when I've never read the same book more than once in my life (other than the last Harry Potter.) I used to hoard books and movies like crazy but I'm glad I let that go because I was going to end up on a television show at the rate I was going. What have you read lately that you would recommend?

xoxo, Laura

What I'm Reading

Alright guys, time for the second edition of What I'm reading. Part of my Single girl list was a challenge to read 52 books in one year. I started in late May and so far I'm only one book behind. I'll have to start picking some thinner books ;)

 

 

1. The Host by Stephenie Meyer

I could not put this book down, it was enthralling. You get pulled into the story in a way you don't want to leave it. When I finished the book, I found myself disappointed that it wasn't a series because I wanted more of the main characters and more of this strange post-invasion Earth setting. Note of warning- do not watch the movie. I finished this thick book in 4 days and watched the movie a few days later. It was awful. The entire time I spent cringing at the lack of anything exciting or worth watching. Read the book instead. So worth the time.

 

 

 

2. Then Came You by Jennifer Weiner

I fell in love with this novel. The story is based around four entirely different yet all relatable women. One who wants a baby and can't have one, another who donates her eggs then feels emotionally torn afterwards, the third is a surrogate who lends her body but is struggling in her own marriage and lastly is the privileged daughter of an extremely wealthy man whose own mother walked out on her.  The characters were so detailed, you feel as if you truly know them by the time you're done reading. I would highly recommend this book for any woman who enjoys a lovely read. You find yourself relating to different parts of each character and the twist at the end is entirely unpredictable. Jennifer Weiner is one of my favorite authors and she certainly doesn't disappoint with this one.

 

 

  

3. The Newcomer by Robyn Carr

I tried a couple of romance novels this month and truth be told, they just aren't for me. While I did like the unusual circumstances and modern family dynamics in this story, I hate how slow these novels are in the beginning. If romance novels are your cup of tea, this is probably for you, if not, I do not recommend it.

 



 

  

4. All Summer Long by Susan Mallery

Again with the romance novels, no fun. So slow in the beginning and they always end the same way- with a pointless dramatic fight, then the couple makes up and gets engaged. The end. Romance novels are so predictable. I did enjoy the second half of this book once turmoil begins with the appearance of the main characters estranged mother but overall, not worth reading, not worth the seven dollar sale price. I truly enjoyed the main characters, but not enough to read it again. I'll be staying away from these kinds of books in the future. I much prefer stories with exciting plots, detailed characters and deeper themes.

 

 

 

 

What have you read lately that you'd suggest? I need some more suggestions because I've got a whole fourty-four books to go :)



A Good Read

Remember my Single Girl List? Where I said I wanted to read 52 books in a year? Well I've been working on that and wanted to share with you guys my finds.


1) My Reality by Melissa Rycroft
Remember the gorgeous former Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader who was proposed to by Jason on the Bachelor and then dumped on national television 6 weeks later because he decided he wanted the runner up instead? Melissa was a fan favorite, gorgeous and oh so sweet- my kind of girl. Well this is her side of the story, and the happiness she found afterwards. She's hilarious and her book was an easy, fun read. In the beginning of the book she talks about a failing relationship with an ex boyfriend and how she would cry for hours at his doorstep demanding an answer or reason that she knew he wouldn't give her. She says to her readers; "Haven't we all done this?"
Love her. Shes witty and honest. As she's getting her heart broken throughout several scenarios in the book, you can't help but laugh aloud because you know you've done and thought the same pathetically hopeless heartbroken things too.

2) Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert
When I first saw the commercials for the movie I knew I wanted to read the book before watching it and I've finally gotten around to it. Elizabeth has a funny way of hashing out the details of hazardous relationships, breakups and a divorce. I found the first third of the book funny, heartbreaking and captivating. She's very entertaining and it was hard to put down. The middle of the book was a very slow read but I picked up pace towards the end. Would definitely read again simply for the pleasure I found in the first part of the book.
From the book: "We hoped that one of us might change. He might become more open and affectionate, not withholding himself from anyone who loves him on the fear that she will eat his soul. Or I might learn how to... stop trying to eat his soul."
Perhaps it reflects poorly on my mental state that I love funny but honest accounts of heart-wrenching breakups. Or maybe I'm like most women in the world and they love these kind of books too.

3) The Virginity Club by Kate Brian
I love the whole drama genre as it gives me a little bit of spice that my life does not have, as I tend to be a mature adult most of the time. This book was a really quick and good read. I love the concept of making a club to keep "pure" throughout high school. Especially in the era of "pregnancy pacts" and all that other ridiculous nonsense that teenagers seem to aim towards now. While the book did lack comical relief, the plot kept me reading nonstop. While I do recommend this book to younger crowds, I came to the sad conclusion when I finished the book last night that I am past my time in the young adult section of Barnes and Noble. Books geared towards 20-somethings are much more enjoyable for me now.

4) Angry Conversations with God by Susan E. Isaacs
As somebody who has struggled to have a relationship with God, I found this book absolutely heartwarming and stomach-pain-inducingly funny. Susan finds herself in a rut with her marriage to God and decides to take him to couples counseling to see if they can work out their problems. Their problems? She doesn't make enough time for him, he's seeing other people... etc.
A particularly great read for anybody whose questioned their faith, felt angry with God, felt as though he abandoned them or anybody who needs a quick laugh on their lunch break. Seriously recommended this book to any Christian, has been a Christian or wants to be a Christian- because it's not what you would expect but totally worth your time.

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Next on my reading list is The Host- gotta read it before the movie comes out! I have a really bad habit of watching a movie then reading the book afterwards. Must correct that. Also, the pace at which I'm reading is going to have to double if I plan on finishing 52 books in a year (by next May,) so please let me know any great books that you recommend :)
Tip for readers like me- I used to rack up quite a bill with the book store, spending $30-$50 every couple of months on new books. Now I shop at thrift stores and the used section of Amazon. The most expensive book on this list so far was $5 and most I've picked up for 98 cents! If you love to read and hate clutter, seriously look into thrifting. It's great to pick up popular books for less than a dollar, plus you won't feel bad about wasted money if you don't like keeping the books around afterwards. I always donate my books when I'm done reading, otherwise I'd need a library to store them all.

Happy reading!