Books | On My Nightstand | October 2015

 

About once a month I like to do a little round up of books that are currently sitting in a pile on my nightstand, waiting to be read. Often times, one or two of those books will deem themselves worthy of a full review of their own. I read so many books that I cannot possibly do full reviews on all of them, or else I would drive myself nuts. 

A Girl Is A Half-Formed Thing by Eimear McBride

I will definitely be doing a full review on this book because I was given it to do so. I just started it this past weekend, and I'm definitely intrigued. The writing style is a little hard to get used to, but I'm told it adds to the story. So stay tuned for the full review.

Stones for Bread by Christa Parrish

This book has been on my to-read list for a few years now and I'm excited to finally read it. It combines life with baking and sometimes that's just what I need to read. Some nice food/baking puns wrapped up in an identity crisis. Delicious.

The Last Anniversary by Liane Moriarty 

After finally reading Big Little Lies by Moriarty and loving it, I immediately checked out the next book I could find. This book doesn't appear to have the same mysterious, suspenseful allure that BLL had - but maybe it's tricking me. I probably won't do a full review on this one, but definitely watch my Goodreads for mini reviews and updates on what I'm reading.

Still Life by Louise Penny 

This book was recommended to me and I cannot remember by whom. It's the first in a series, a mystery series nonetheless. I need to delve into a good series and I'm hoping this will be the one.

We That Are Left by Clare Clark

This a book that a publisher sent me to read and review, so that will be coming. This is probably not a book I would have picked out for myself, but isn't that the fun of doing this whole blogging thing?  This book appears to have kind of a historical fiction/romance vibe which is NOT my thing, but I'm hoping to be pleasantly surprised.

There you have that, the books that are currently waiting to be read. What is on your nightstand currently?

Books | On My Nightstand July 2015

 

It seems like everyone is saying it, so I will as well. I can't believe it's July already! The year is half over and I'm not entirely sure where it all went. July 2015 is going to contain a road trip to Virginia to see one of my besties, a move to Iowa and lots of reading. Here's a little synopsis of the books currently waiting to be read; going from top to bottom.

The Rainmaker by John Grisham 

Rudy Baylor is in his final semester of law school where he is required to give free legal advice to a group of senior citizens. In the group are Dot and Buddy Black who have a son, Donny Ray. Donny Ray is dying and the insurance company is refusing to pay for his treatments. At first Rudy is skeptical, but upon delving further into the case he realizes that he may have stumbled into one of the largest cases of insurance fraud that anyone has ever seen. One problem: Rudy hasn't even passed the bar yet, is flat out broke and is about to go head to head with one of the best defense attorneys AND one of the most powerful companies in America. 

I know, I can't believe I haven't read this book yet either. Or even viewed the movie. What the heck. I have enjoyed every single John Grisham book I have read, so I'm super looking forward to reading this classic...finally.

Just Friends by Robyn Sisman

Freya and Jack have been "just friends" for more than ten years; despite their apparent differences. When Freya is dumped by her lawyer boyfriend, she moves into Jack's apartment and tensions begin to arise. Things get especially sticky when Jack agrees to act as Freya's significant other at her step-sister's wedding.

This book just seems like a nice and simple read. I will probably cram this one in when I need something light and fluffy to disappear into for a few hours.

Euphoria by Lily King 

Andrew Bankson is an English anthropologist who has been alone out in the field for many years. He is studying the Kiona river tribe in the Territory of New Guinea. He is haunted by the memories of his brothers' death and is growing increasingly frustrated with his research and isolation. Bankson, on the verge of suicide,  has a chance encounter with colleagues Nell Stone and her husband Fen. They are looking for a new adventure and when Bankson introduces them to a new tribe that is female dominated he ignites and intellectual and romantic firestorm.

The Lola Quartet by Emily St. John Mandel

Gavin Sasaki is a young journalist in New York City, at least until he fired disgracefully. It's 2009 and the world is in an economic downturn; the last thing Gavin wants to do is return to his hometown in Florida. Luckily, he is offered a job by his sister, Eilo, as a real estate broker who deals in foreclosed homes. Eilo recently visited a home that housed a child, ten years old, who looked suspiciously like her brother and shared the same last name as Gavin's high school girlfriend Anna; whom Gavin last saw ten years ago. 

I really enjoyed Station Eleven by this same author, so I have decided to slowly make my way through her works. 

The Astronaut Wives Club by Lily Koppel

As America's Mercury Seven were launched on a death-defying mission, the cameras were focused on the brave smiles of their young wives. Overnight, these women were transformed into American royalty. 

Isn't this being made into a movie or a television show? I thought I saw a commercial or heard something?

My Grandmother asked me to tell you she's sorry by Fredrik Backman

Elsa is a different seven year old, her crazy grandmother is her best and her only friend. When Elsa's grandmother dies, she leaves behind a series of apology letters to the people she has wronged. Her grandmother's letters lead Elsa on her biggest adventure yet.

A Man called Ove was possibly one of my favorite books that I read in 2014, so naturally when this one came out I snagged it ASAP to devour it. Expect a full review on this one, and I hope it's as good as I am imagining it to be.

First Frost by Sarah Addison Allen

Claire Waverly has started a new venture, Waverly's Candies, that is her own handmade confections. Though these confections are effective; promoting them and crafting them are costing her the everyday joys of her family. Sydney Waverly is also on the verge of losing her balance as she longs for a baby boy; a namesake for her Henry. The more she tries, the faster she is losing out on the life and joys that are right in front of her. Sydney's daughter, Bay, has lost her heart to a boy - but he doesn't know it. 

There you have it, the current reading list! What is on your nightstand to read this month?

Books | On My Nightstand

 

So while you're reading this I am beginning my second week in  Jacksonville, Florida visiting my sister's family. Actually some of these books may have already made an appearance in my Five things Friday - What I have read. So, sorry for the repeats! The majority of the books on my nightstand (or suitcase) this month are easy beach reads. I have 3 nieces and getting through complex books with them around is virtually impossible. Plus, I only see them once a year and I want to spend time with them - not with my nose stuck in a book. But for when desperate times call, this is what I am reading!

 1. Twelve Years a Slave by Solomon Northup

Yes like the Academy Award winning film; no I did not see it. I wanted to read the book first and I am finally getting around to it. This is the true story of Solomon Northup who was born and raised as a free man in New York. One day he was drugged, kidnapped and sold into slavery in the deep south. This book is the account of his 12 years as a slave. I expect tears.

2.  The Beach Club by Elin Hilderbrand

 Since I'm in Florida for two weeks, this seems like a nice book to read while sitting at the beach or the pool. It follows a bunch of summer drama at Nantucket Beach Club. Sounds simple and delightful to me.

3.  My Life Next Door by Huntley Fitzpatrick

There are two families who live next door to one another; the Garrett's and the Reed's. Naturally they are complete opposites; Samantha Reed wishes from her rooftop perch that her family could be more like the Garrett family. One day, Jase Garrett climbs up and joins her. As they begin to fall for one another, the unthinkable happens. I am looking forward to this book, especially because the "unthinkable" could be anything! 

4.  Church of Marvels by Leslie Parry

This book follows three very different characters who seemingly are completely unconnected. As the books unravels, you begin to see the connections; along with their secrets and their stories. This book takes place in turn of the century New York City. Another one that I've been wanting to read and happened to snag it off the new release shelf at the library! Will probably do a full review on this.

5. Saving Grace by Jane Green  

Grace and Ted Chapman are often regarded as the ideal literary power couple; he is a successful novelist and she is a wonderful homemaker. But underneath it all is Ted's struggles with rage and mood swings. When Ted's longtime assistant leaves, everything begins to crumble and Grace is incredibly vulnerable. I enjoy Jane Green, another great book to have on my trip with me.

Books | On My Nightstand

I am a little later than usual on this, and for that I do apologize. That being said, I have already read two of these books since I took this photo. Of those two books, I am going to be doing a full review on one of them so you have that to look forward to as well.

1. The Fates Will Find Their Way by Hannah Pittard

Sixteen year old Nora Lindell is missing and as the days, months and years go on the mystery grows. There is a lot of speculation on what happened, but Nora's story becomes a projection of teenage lust, friendship, reverence and regret for the boys she left behind.

Full disclosure: I read this book already. It was told in a similar voice as The Virgin Suicides and I found the constant wonderings and non-specific voice to get old. I only gave it two stars.

2. The Boston Girl by Anita Diamant

Addie Baum was born to immigrant parents in 1900, the youngest of three girls and born to parents who were suspicious of America and the effect it would have on their children. But growing up on the North End of Boston cultivated Addie's curiosity and desire to learn, taking her to places in life that her parents could not understand. This story is told in the voice of 85 year old Addie telling her 22 year old granddaughter about her life.

Full review coming on this one in the next few weeks. But let me just say, you should read it.

3. The Last Time I Was Me by Cathy Lamb

Jeanne Stewart is in the middle of a mental breakdown. She packs up her car and drives from Chicago to Weltana, Oregon where she stops to eat pancakes for the first time in 12 years. Jeanne decides to stay and spend some time in Weltana and befriends a quirky group of people. She finds some things that she never thought she would.

4. Academy Street by Mary Costello

This tells the story of one woman's life spanning for 6 decades beginning with 1940's rural Ireland. One of the defining moments of Tess' life is when her mother dies. Then later in New York, the ferocious power of love.

5.  Fingersmith by Sarah Waters

Sue Trinder is an orphan left to "baby farmer" Mrs. Sucksby; a household that hosts a transient family of thieves - fingersmiths. One day a beloved and elegant conman, Gentleman, arrives and with an interesting proposition for Sue. 

6. Bone Gap by Laura Ruby

Young, beautiful Roza of Bone Gap goes missing; but no one is surprised. It wasn't the first time someone slipped away and left Finn and Sean O'Sullivan on their own. Just a few years ago, their mother up and left. But Finn knows that's not what happened with Roza; he knows that she was kidnapped in the cornfields by a dangerous man whose face he cannot remember. The searches have been fruitless and no one believes him anymore; including Sean.

7. Thirty Girls by Susan Minot

Esther is a Ugandan teenager abducted by the Lord's Resistance Army and forced to witness and commit unspeakable things; she is struggling to survive, escape and find a way to live with what she has seen and done. Jane is an American journalist who has traveled to Africa in hopes of giving a voice to teens like Esther.

8. Agent 6 by Tom Rob Smith (Leo Demidov #3)

It is 1965 and Leo Demidov is not allowed to travel with his wife and daughters from Moscow to New York. They are part of a "Peace Tour" that's purpose is to build a new relationship between the two Cold War enemies. While on the tour Leo's family gets caught up in a terrible conspiracy and betrayal that ends tragically. 

I know I can't wait to get reading these books! Any of these peak your interest? What's on your nightstand waiting to be read?

Books | On My Nightstand

Here we are, into April already. I can't even believe it, it's currently my Spring Break and while I do not have any travel plans - I am going to be doing some spring "cleaning". I have some organizing to do around the homestead, and my car needs a good cleaning from the winter. Of course, I plan on doing some reading as well. Here are the books that are currently on my nightstand awaiting to be read.

 

(from top to bottom)

The Midwife of Hope River by Patricia Harman (Hope River #1)
This book follows Appalachian midwife, Patience Murphy. She begins by taking on cases that no one else wants or will do - those most in need and least likely to pay.

Daughter by Jane Shemilt
Jenny is a family doctor, mother of three teenagers and married to a neurosurgeon. When her youngest daughter doesn't come home after her school play, Jenny's life begins to crumble. A nationwide search begins, and their lives are forever changed.

The Paying Guests by Sarah Waters
London in 1922 is tense; ex-servicemen are disillusioned and the poor and unemployed are demanding a change. Life is about to be changed for impoverished widow Mrs. Wray and her daughter, Frances. They are forced to take in lodgers.

Another Night, Another Day by Sarah Rayner
This is about three people who are all crying out for help and each has ended up at Moreland's Psychiatric Clinic. It follows their stories on how they ended up there and how they are going to get out.

The Secret Speech by Tom Rob Smith (Leo Demidov #2)
 It's the Soviet Union in 1956, after Stalin's death. The society that is left behind is one where the police are the criminals and the criminals are innocent. Leo Demidov is a former MGB officer; the two young girls him and his wife have adopted have yet to forgive him for this part in a tragic story. They are not alone; their family is in grave danger - someone has held onto a grudge against Leo.

We Are Called to Rise by Laura McBride
This book follows the lives of people from different backgrounds and how their lives intersect and collide in stunning coincidences. When these characters are given the chance to despair, they all rise - hence the name.

Books | On my nightstand | Sept. 2014

Another month, so another look at what books are currently on my nightstand and in a pile waiting for me to read! Since I am offically back at work from summer vacation, my reading time is dwindling. But that doesn't stop me from having a library problem. So here are the 6 books I hope to finish in September! 

1. Ten Tiny Breaths by K.A. Tucker

Last month I read the fourth book, Five Ways to Fall, and quite enjoyed it. So I decided to start back at the beginning, which is this book. This books follows Kacey Cleary and the fall out in her life following a drunk driving accident four years prior. Her main priority is to wait out her hellish life until her little sister Livie is no longer a minor and then they can escape. When their Uncle Raymond slips into bed next to Livie one night, Kacey decides she has had enough and it's time to leave. They flee to Miami, where they take up residence is an apartment complex full of "characters".  Naturally, the fellow residing in apartment 1D catches Kacey's eye, but she is broken beyond repair...or so she believes.

My thoughts: I enjoy books where people have shitty lives, I know it seems sick but it's the truth. I look forward to reading this book, and I am positive I will enjoy since it seems fairly similar to the other book I read by K.A. Tucker.

2. If you could see what I see by Cathy Lamb

I have read 2 other books by Cathy Lamb, and I super loved them...hence why I am already onto a third book! This one is about the woman in Megge O'Rourke's family. They have run a lingerie business for decades, and naturally, their family dynamic is fairly dysfunctional. Meggie wants to stay away, but her grandmother has summoned her back to Portland, Oregon. Given the flux in her life the past year, Meggie is secretly happy for a focus - to keep the family business afloat and deal with her bickering family. In an attempt to draw customers to their website, Meggie begins to interview relatives and employees about their first bra's and favorite lingerie items. What she finds are unexpectedly poignant stories, and revelations that highlight her family's past and help Meggie begin to find her footing again.

My thoughts:  Lamb has no problem writing books about issues that are uncomfortable and I love that. I am eager to read this one, and hear the stories people share. I like unexpected, and I feel like there is more than meets the eye with this novel. 

3. The Magnolia League by Katie Crouch

This is the first book in a series of the same name, there are at least two that I know of. In this novel, 16 year old Alexandria Lee is forced to leave her west coast home after her mother dies in a tragic accident. Alexandria is forced to move in with her wealthy grandmother in Georgia, a grandmother that she has never had a relationship with. Just by birth, Alex is rightfully a member of the Magnolia League - a long standing debutante society. This is a far cry from the life Alex is used to, and she is the first in decades to question the intentions. Yet, even with her unwillingness she gets caught up in their world. Alex discovers a pact and some deadly secrets hidden beneath the "southern charm". 

My thoughts: This book seems kind of mysterious, and I like that. Maybe a little dark, but not too crazy...no nightmares (hopefully!). 

4. The Bird Sisters by Rebecca Rasumussen

Twin sisters Milly and Twiss spend their days nursing people and birds back to health. But it wasn't always this way, back in the summer of 1947 Milly was known as a great beauty and Twiss was a wild child who never wore a dress or do what she was told. That was also the summer their father was in an accident and their mother finally admitted that their penny pinching lives would never change. It was also the summer their priest renounced his belief and God and ran away, and also the summer a boy caught Milly's eye. And most unforgettable, it was the summer their cousin Bett changed their lives forever.

My thoughts:  I read about this book in my free book magazine I get my from my library. I feel like I have no idea what it is really about, but I still want to read it. I feel like that is good enough for me, so I checked it out. I don't need much encouragement in reading, in case you couldn't have figured this out.

5. The 9th Girl by Tami Hoag

This is the 4th book in the Kovac and Liska series, if you're a Tami Hoag reader. I have read these all out of order, but it hasn't proved to be complicated to figure it out. On New Year's Eve in Minneapolis, MN a young woman's beaten body falls from the trunk of a car into the path of traffic. She is the 9th nameless female victim of the year and homocide dectectives Kovac and Liska are given the task of finding out who she is and why this happened to her. Their fear is that she is the 9th victim of the transient serial killer they have dubbed Doc Holiday. Doc Holiday has been criss-crossing America's heartland, choosing his victims at random; snatching them from one city and leaving them in another...always on a holiday.

My thoughts: I love Tami Hoag, and all of her series, even the particularly gruesome ones. I think this is the last one I have to read in this particular series.

6. The One & Only by Emily Giffin

33 year old Shea Rigsby has lived her whole life in Walker, Texas...a small college town that eats, drinks and breathes football, a passion she also shares. Her best friend, Lucy, is the daughter of legendary football coach Clive Carr. When a tragedy occurs in Walker, Shea's comfortable world is no more and she begins to wonder if the live she has chosen is the one she really wants. She decides to step outside of her safety net, and follow an unexpected path. She discovers the truth about the people and things she has always trusted, and is forced to confront her deepest desires, fears and secrets.

My thoughts:  Giffin's books have never really made me feel anything beyond mild amusement. This book has the appearance of being able to go a bit deeper, and it didn't really tell me much by the description which I like. 

What books are on your nightstand? Or what books are you currently reading?