Books Read in 2014 & 2015


Amy's bookshelf: read-in-2014

The Husband's Secret
really liked it
tagged: fiction, read-in-2014, and own-ebook
You Should Have Known
did not like it
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, own-on-my-tbr-shelf, from-publisher, arc-copy, ...
The Woman Upstairs
liked it
This was a difficult novel for me to rate - it's really more of a 3 and a half but I'm going with 3 because the flaws in the novel really made me lean towards a 3 rather than a 4. Ultimately, this is a very slow moving character study. ...
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, and read-in-2014
The People in the Trees
really liked it
I really struggled with rating this book. In part because of how disturbing I found this novel and in part because I loved parts of it and struggled with others. However, in the end, I think I have to go with 4 stars. This book is a pret...
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, books-on-the-nightstand-recommendat, and read-i...
Zealot: The Life and Times of Jesus of Nazareth
really liked it
Fantastic read! I learned a great deal about Jesus and about the time in which he lived. I found that much of what I'd learned about Jesus in the Sunday school classes of my childhood was very watered down and (at times) inaccurate. I am...
tagged: own-ebook, non-fiction, read-in-2014, and religion
Men We Reaped
really liked it
What a fantastic little book! I really took my time with this one, dipping in and out, because it was such a thoughtful and raw book. Jesmyn Ward is such a fantastic writer! She made her friends and family as well as her overall communit...
tagged: non-fiction, own-on-my-tbr-shelf, arc-copy, bea2013, and read-in-2014
The Golem and the Jinni
really liked it
What a fantastic read! I don't think I've never read another book quite like it and I mean that in the best way! It's a fantastic read with fascinating characters. The author really makes the New York of the early 20th century come alive...
tagged: busy-as-a-bee-books-group, fiction, own-ebook, and read-in-2014
Visitation Street
liked it
I liked this book but it wasn't quite as good as I'd hoped (or expected). Definitely worth the read but didn't grab me as much as I'd hoped it would. Can't wait to see what Ivy Pochoda has in store for us in the future!
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, and read-in-2014
A Land More Kind Than Home
really liked it
Wow! I had heard this novel was good and I'm so glad that I finally picked it up! Wiley Cash is a master at making a place and the people in that place come alive on the page! Excellent use of tension and the narrative voice is outstandi...
tagged: fiction, read-in-2014, and own-ebook
The Love Affairs of Nathaniel P.
did not like it
This just didn't resonate with me. I tried several times but I just didn't find it remotely interesting or compelling. Abandoning this one ...
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, abandoned, and read-in-2014
Americanah
it was amazing
I had NO idea what this book was about going in but WOW did it make an impression. It's certainly not a light or easy read but its well worth taking the time and effort to read it! This book is such a fascinating look at race, immigratio...
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, read-in-2014, and recommended-friends-or-blog
Lost Lake
liked it
This review is so hard to write because I normally LOVE LOVE LOVE Allen's novels and this one just didn't live up to my expectations. It was a fine book - an enjoyable book but not what I've come to expect of Sarah Addison Allen's novels...
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, and read-in-2014
The Invention of Wings
it was amazing
I cannot recommend this novel enough ... no review that I can write will capture how special this novel is and how important it's story is to all of us! Run out and read this one! I hear it's been picked as an Oprah book club book and th...
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, and read-in-2014
The Cuckoo's Calling
really liked it
What a pleasant surprise this one was for me! I was a little nervous about this one living up to the hype since the discovery that it was written by JK Rowling. But, it's a very solid detective/mystery novel. Really interesting main char...
tagged: busy-as-a-bee-books-group, fiction, own-ebook, and read-in-2014
Someone Else's Love Story
liked it
This is one of the oddest books I've read in some time and I'm still not quite sure about it ... I liked it but I'm not entirely sure why. I think one thing that I found off putting was it seemed like the author might have been trying to...
tagged: own-ebook, fiction, read-in-2014, own-on-my-tbr-shelf, bea2013, and...
The Winter People
really liked it
What a creepy book! The author did an amazing job building suspense and making me feel uncomfortable. I'm struggling with the rating here - it's probably closer to a 3 and a half but given how effective the suspense was, I'll give it 4 s...
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, and read-in-2014
The Martian
liked it
I heard so much positive buzz about this one so I couldn't wait to get started on it. And I really did like it but I didn't love it nearly as much as so many others have. The science was obviously spot on and the story was very suspensef...
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, and read-in-2014
Fangirl
really liked it
Rainbow Rowell is just amazing ... I've loved each of her books but I was concerned this one wouldn't work as well for me since I'm not really a fan of fan fiction but she did her magic and I really liked this one a lot! The only reason ...
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, and read-in-2014
Reality Boy
really liked it
What a fascinating book! I loved this one! Great story, fascinating characters ... and really impactful themes. In our world of reality TV, this novel tackles a really interesting aspect of the impact to the participants. This was my fir...
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, young-adult, recommended-friends-or-blog, and r...
The House Girl
really liked it
I really enjoyed this story. The characters were all fantastic and their stories really resonated with me. I do think that there was much too much detail in some places which is why I ultimately gave it just 4 stars. I think there could ...
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, and read-in-2014
Five Days at Memorial: Life and Death in a Storm-Ravaged Hospital
really liked it
What an interesting read! A great example of fantastic narrative non-fiction! I highly recommend this one!
tagged: non-fiction, own-ebook, read-in-2014, and busy-as-a-bee-books-group
Boy, Snow, Bird
liked it
I really wanted to love this book but, in the end, I just didn't. It's a good book but it didn't take me where I was hoping to go. I was a bit disappointed in the overall novel. There were great things about it but there were also not so...
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, and read-in-2014
The Weight of Blood
really liked it
This novel didn't blow me away but I thought it was VERY good, especially given that it was a first novel. The sense of place was so well done and I felt as if I were there. I liked the characters and the overall story. I do think there ...
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, and read-in-2014
The Next Best Thing
liked it
Really enjoyed this one. Very typical Jennifer Weiner novel ... and I mean that in a good way! Light and breezy which is what I really needed right now. This is not even close to being as good as Good In Bed but it was still enjoyable. I...
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, and read-in-2014
The Magician's Assistant
liked it
I really love Ann Patchett and have read much of her work. I think this is one of her older back list and although it is certainly good, it's just not as good when compared to her newer work (in my opinion). But, it's a solid novel. For ...
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, and read-in-2014
The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry
really liked it
Such a lovely little book! I really enjoyed every moment of this novel! Especially relevant for book lovers! I think this is a novel that has something for everyone! I can't recommend it highly enough!
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, and read-in-2014
One Thousand White Women: The Journals of May Dodd
really liked it
Why didn't I read this one earlier?? I've had it sitting on my TBR for ages but never picked it up. Well, I wish I had! What a fantastic read - fascinating story, interesting characters and just downright good storytelling! Very readable...
tagged: own-on-my-tbr-shelf, busy-as-a-bee-books-group, fiction, own-ebook,...
The Museum of Extraordinary Things
really liked it
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, and read-in-2014
The Promise of Stardust
really liked it
This is more of a 3 and a half for me but I rounded up to a 4. Quick read, compulsively readable, very compelling story and characters. Had the feel of a Jodi Picoult novel to me - with an 'issue' at the heart of the novel. Definitely tu...
tagged: busy-as-a-bee-books-group, fiction, own-ebook, and read-in-2014
Sous Chef: 24 Hours on the Line
liked it
tagged: own-ebook, non-fiction, and read-in-2014
The Death of Santini: The Story of a Father and His Son
it was ok
It really saddens me to give anything written by Pat Conroy at two star rating BUT this memoir just didn't do it for me. I am a huge fan of his fiction but I found this to be less than stellar. It's kind of a rambling, unstructured look ...
tagged: memoir, own-ebook, and read-in-2014
The Signature of All Things
really liked it
This book completely surprised me ... a book that centers on botany which is something that I have little to no interest in. And yet it captivated me from the first page! Such a great story! Highly recommend this one!
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, and read-in-2014
Benediction
really liked it
Really enjoyed this one! Fantastic read. Very simple yet impactful novel! Definitely recommend this one!
tagged: own-ebook, fiction, busy-as-a-bee-books-group, and read-in-2014
The Headmaster's Wife
liked it
I wanted to love this one and it definitely had promise. I enjoyed this one but I didn't love it. Other reviews indicate that other readers really loved it so it may be that I just didn't connect with this one.
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, and read-in-2014
Friendship Bread
liked it
This is a nice, light read. Not my favorite but it was pretty good!
tagged: busy-as-a-bee-books-group, own-ebook, and read-in-2014
The Apprentice
really liked it
It's been awhile since I read the first in this series so this was a nice reminder of what I enjoyed about the series in the first book. I really like the characters and it was nice to read about them again. Very quick, easy read!
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, read-in-2014, and series-i-love
Dismantled
liked it
Not my favorite McMahon novel but it was a good read. Read almost the entire novel during a flight. Has all of the things you'd expect from one of her novels!
tagged: own-ebook, fiction, and read-in-2014
The Storyteller
really liked it
Jodi Picoult does it again! I was really taken with this novel. It's certainly not perfect but I enjoyed it quite a bit! Interesting story and characters! I recommend this one!
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, and read-in-2014
We Were Liars
really liked it
I'm not telling you anything about this book and please don't read anything about it ... just read it. It was really good but it could have been great for me if I'd gone in without any knowledge whatsoever about this book. It's really go...
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, recommended-friends-or-blog, young-adult, and r...
The One & Only
really liked it
I had a lot of fun with this one which kind of surprised me given it centers around sports (football, specifically) and I'm not into sports. But, it was such a fun little read - very light and breezy as Giffin novels tend to be. I unders...
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, and read-in-2014
Still Life with Bread Crumbs
did not like it
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, abandoned, and read-in-2014
Ladies' Night
really liked it
Really enjoyed this one! Very light and fun read. Nothing highbrow about this one but it definitely delivers for what it is ... a light, fun read. Nice break from heavier novels!
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, and read-in-2014
In the Shadow of the Banyan
liked it
I seem to be the only one who didn't absolutely love this one. I really think it's a well written novel that gave me insight into a time & place in history that I wasn't as aware of as I should be. There were parts that were so beautiful...
tagged: fiction, busy-as-a-bee-books-group, own-ebook, and read-in-2014
Orphan Train
liked it
This book had so much promise but it never lived up to it for me. I loved the book until about 2/3 of the way in when much of what I felt was set up in the early parts of the book fell apart and began to make no sense. The ending was com...
tagged: busy-as-a-bee-books-group, own-ebook, fiction, and read-in-2014
Save the Date
liked it
I've been in a very Mary Kay Andrews mood lately so this new novel was right up my alley! Nothing life changing but just a good, solid read! Very light and entertaining! It was the perfect mix of love, romance, family drama with a touch ...
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, and read-in-2014
Perfect
liked it
I really wanted to love this book as much as I did her earlier novel but I just didn't connect with this one quite as much. She's a great writer and puts together a fantastic story. Yet, this one didn't have the magic that I was hoping t...
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, and read-in-2014
Written in My Own Heart's Blood
really liked it
Let me just start out by saying that I'm a HUGE fan of this series and of Diana Gabaldon's writing style. This series isn't for everyone - especially the later books. I acknowledge they are very historically and detail heavy. That is one...
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, series-i-love, and read-in-2014
The Vacationers
liked it
I was hoping to love this but it just didn't quite deliver. Not a bad book but I think there are other books that do this sort of thing better than it is done here ...
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, and read-in-2014
The Chopped Cookbook: Use What You've Got to Cook Something Great
it was amazing
I'm a huge Chopped fan! It's one of my go-to cooking shows and I love seeing what the chefs are able to create with the baskets. So, when I saw that there was a Chopped cookbook, I was all in! This is a beautifully produced book - all ...
tagged: cookbook, own-on-my-tbr-shelf, from-publisher, and read-in-2014
All Fall Down
really liked it
Let me say upfront that I'm a big fan of Jennifer Weiner - the writer AND the person. I think she's funny, interesting, polarizing and fascinating! So, I was so excited to hear that she had a new book coming out! And I have to say that...
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, and read-in-2014
The Fever
liked it
This was my first Megan Abbott novel and I only picked it up after hearing good things from a few readers that I trust! And I'm glad that I picked this novel up but I'm not sure that I loved it as much as some others have. Definitely a c...
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, books-on-the-nightstand-recommendat, read-in-20...
Vampires in the Lemon Grove
it was ok
It absolutely KILLS me to rate a Karen Russell book of stories this low but I have to be honest ... this collection did not do it for me. In fact, I really only enjoyed the first two stories in the collection. I loved the title story - V...
tagged: short-story-collection, fiction, own-ebook, and read-in-2014
Extra Virgin: Recipes & Love from Our Tuscan Kitchen
really liked it
I was pleasantly surprised by this cookbook. I watch the Extra Virgin television show on occasion so I suspected what I might be getting when I opened this cookbook. Overall, I think the cookbook is a nice companion to the show but also ...
tagged: cookbook, from-publisher, and read-in-2014
The Book of Life
it was amazing
I could not be happier with the ending of this particular trilogy. I was worried how this third book might go after having mixed feelings about the second book. But, wow! The final book in the trilogy definitely exceeded my overall expec...
tagged: fiction, from-publisher, edelweis-netgalley_review, arc-copy, serie...
Mr. Mercedes
really liked it
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, and read-in-2014
One Kick
it was amazing
I was so excited to hear that Chelsea Cain was coming out with a brand new series given how much I love her Archie Sheridan series! And I have to tell you, if this first book is any indication, the new series is going to be just as good ...
tagged: arc-copy, fiction, from-publisher, edelweis-netgalley_review, and r...
Landline
liked it
I absolutely love Rainbow Rowell's previous novels so it really pains me to give a novel of hers 3 stars. I kept waiting for Landline to get better but it just never did. It was truly middle of the road - not great, not terrible - just i...
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, and read-in-2014
Annihilation
it was ok
I really struggled with this novel. After hearing so many raves about it, I think I was expecting much more than I actually found during reading it. I just didn't 'get' it. I am not sure what I missed but I never connected with the story...
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, read-in-2014, and recommended-friends-or-blog
Fourth of July Creek
it was amazing
This may be one of my favorite books of this year - it's fantastic! I still can't quite believe it's a debut novel! I will say that this one took me awhile to get into - and I think that was partly a result of getting connected to the na...
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, read-in-2014, and recommended-friends-or-blog
We Should All Be Feminists
really liked it
I quite liked Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie's newest novel and when I saw this piece was going to be available, it seemed right up my alley - feminism, a great writer, based on a TED talk? I'm IN! And I'm so glad I took the time to read thi...
tagged: arc-copy, from-publisher, edelweis-netgalley_review, non-fiction, a...
The Farm
really liked it
This is a really fast-paced and intriguing novel that grabbed me from the start and kept me wanting more for the entire read! The pacing kept the story moving quickly and the short chapters helped that sense of being propelled forward. T...
tagged: arc-copy, fiction, from-publisher, own-ebook, own-on-my-tbr-shelf, ...
Seating Arrangements
really liked it
This is one of those books that really isn't for everyone. I found the reading experience to be VERY dense. I'm not sure that's the best description but it's the word that kept coming up for me. It's got a lot of depth and the writing is...
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, and read-in-2014
Brick by Brick: How LEGO Rewrote the Rules of Innovation and Conquered the Global Toy Industry
really liked it
I was drawn to this book about LEGO for two reasons - 1. my son is obsessed with LEGOs and I was interested in learning more about the company behind his beloved toy and 2. it sounded like a fascinating case study of a company that is kn...
tagged: arc-copy, from-publisher, own-on-my-tbr-shelf, non-fiction, and rea...
The Secret Place
it was amazing
My amazement at what Tana French is able to create, book after book, is just off the charts. She blows me away. I keep waiting for a bad book as one would expect would eventually happen. No one's perfect, right? Well, I'm not sure ... be...
tagged: arc-copy, from-publisher, fiction, read-in-2014, and series-i-love
Elements of Style: Designing a Home & a Life
really liked it
I've been thinking a lot about home design lately so when I saw this Erin Gates book, I thought it might be exactly what I was looking for. This is a really solid design book with a lot of personal anecdotes from the author and some very...
tagged: arc-copy, edelweis-netgalley_review, non-fiction, from-publisher, a...
The Girl with All the Gifts
really liked it
I didn't know a lot about this novel before I started it but I had heard some very vague good things so I thought I'd give it a shot. And I'm so glad that I did. The world and characters created by M.R. Carey in this novel are fantastic!...
tagged: edelweis-netgalley_review, fiction, own-ebook, from-publisher, arc-...
Station Eleven
it was amazing
This may well be one of my favorite books of the year! Such a fantastic read! I am just sorry that I haven't discovered Emily St. John Mandel before! This is another dystopian novel that explores what happens to a group of people after a...
tagged: arc-copy, fiction, from-publisher, edelweis-netgalley_review, and r...
Shotgun Lovesongs
really liked it
This is one of those books that is right up my alley - a group of people who grew up together and are facing the world as adults! A Big Chill sort of vibe is what I love in this sort of book! And this one is a fantastic version of the co...
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, and read-in-2014
The Silent Sister
really liked it
I think Diane Chamberlain is one of those authors who steadily offer solid books that are extremely readable, interesting and are a good break from heavy literary fiction. I'm always eager to read her newest offering! This novel, like ...
tagged: arc-copy, fiction, from-publisher, edelweis-netgalley_review, and r...
The Book of Strange New Things
really liked it
I've waited a bit to write this review to see how this novel set with me after thinking about it some more. I am still struggling with rating this one but I'm going with a 4 although 4.5 is probably closer to how I feel about this one. I...
tagged: arc-copy, fiction, from-publisher, edelweis-netgalley_review, read-...
The Winter Sea
really liked it
What a wonderful surprise this book was for me! I heard somewhere that this would be good to read if you enjoyed Outlander so i thought I'd give it a shot. Although it's no Outlander, it is a really nice historical fiction novel about th...
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, read-in-2014, and recommended-friends-or-blog
Inferno
liked it
Pretty typical Dan Brown novel - nothing super special but a good, solid read. Sometimes I need this kind of novel to read between more heavy, literary fiction and this one definitely hit the spot this time!
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, and read-in-2014
Everything I Never Told You
really liked it
This is a wonderful little novel about an interracial family (Chinese American) grieving for the loss of a teenage daughter. I don't want to tell you much about the plot of the book because I think it was all the more enjoyable by readin...
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, and read-in-2014
What Alice Forgot
liked it
Although I definitely think that the story itself was interesting and unique, I didn't feel like the execution came together that well. It was a good but not a great one. I felt it had great potential but just slightly missed the mark. W...
tagged: busy-as-a-bee-books-group, own-ebook, fiction, and read-in-2014
The Son
did not like it
tagged: busy-as-a-bee-books-group, fiction, own-ebook, recommended-friends-...
Bird Box
really liked it
What a fascinating novel with a really unique premise! It seems to me that this novel is a mash up of 3 genres - post-apocalyptic, horror, and psychological thriller! (But not horror in the sense of gore or anything like that - good clas...
tagged: fiction, books-on-the-nightstand-recommendat, own-ebook, and read-i...
The Night Garden
liked it
I gravitated towards this book after hearing that it reminded some of Sarah Addison Allen's work. I am a HUGE fan of her work so I was (of course) interested in finding something similar! There are definitely threads of this book that ar...
tagged: arc-copy, edelweis-netgalley_review, from-publisher, fiction, and r...
The Paying Guests
really liked it
This book really surprised me ... I didn't read anything about it before picking it up except that I'd heard it was 'good.' I think this is one that is best read with little information going into it. Sarah Waters is such a brilliant wri...
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, and read-in-2014
Almost Famous Women: Stories
really liked it
I've been fairly candid about my love/hate relationship with short stories. I want to love them but rarely do ... I tend to be more of a novel sort of girl. I felt drawn to this collection of stories upon hearing about the fact that eac...
tagged: edelweis-netgalley_review, fiction, arc-copy, from-publisher, short...
The Best American Essays 2013
really liked it
I think its really difficult to rate anthologies since they contain so many different elements but I'm basing my rating of this on how I felt about it as a whole after finishing. I only skipped 2 essays which I just couldn't connect two....
tagged: own-on-my-tbr-shelf, non-fiction, and read-in-2014
A Beautiful Mess Happy Handmade Home: Painting, Crafting, and Decorating a Cheerful, More Inspiring Space
liked it
I really struggled with rating this book but I think I'll go with 3 and a half stars. This is a book that will either resonate with you or completely turn you off ... or it may impact you like it did me - I found it interesting but I don...
tagged: from-publisher, own-on-my-tbr-shelf, non-fiction, and read-in-2014
The House at Riverton
liked it
I'm not sure what happened but I just didn't love this one as much as I'd hoped or expected. It was one of those novels that you know, as you finish it, that just won't stick with you. I thought the story was good and I liked the charact...
tagged: busy-as-a-bee-books-group, fiction, own-ebook, and read-in-2014
Descent
really liked it
I can't recommend this book more highly! What a fantastic, thrilling ride! It's not really like any book I've ever read before in many ways. It's definitely a thriller but its so much more! It's a book that sucks you in and holds onto yo...
tagged: arc-copy, fiction, edelweis-netgalley_review, read-in-2014, and fro...
The Killer Next Door
liked it
I tried to start this one a few times but had trouble getting into it so I set it aside for a bit and came back later. I'm so glad I did ... once I got into it, I really enjoyed this novel. I liked the intermix of action and character ...
tagged: fiction, from-publisher, and read-in-2014
Rooms
really liked it
This was a really interesting little book that I quite enjoyed. I've read one or two of her YA novels so I was interested in seeing how Lauren Oliver would approach an adult novel. This is a ghost story but it's not in any way scary or...
tagged: own-ebook, fiction, and read-in-2014
Make Up: Your Life Guide to Beauty, Style, and Success--Online and Off
really liked it
As a self-proclaimed make-up junkie, I couldn't resist a book by Michelle Phan who is well known in beauty circles! And, overall, this is a really solid book. Unfortunately, I think it's targeted towards a different demographic than me. ...
tagged: from-publisher, non-fiction, own-on-my-tbr-shelf, and read-in-2014
A Tale for the Time Being
really liked it
What a wonderful book this one ended up being! I'd tried to start it before but ended up putting it down. I am so glad that I returned and gave it another shot. This is definitely an odd novel - very different from anything I can remembe...
tagged: busy-as-a-bee-books-group, fiction, own-ebook, read-in-2014, and re...
Belzhar
it was amazing
Based on Goodreads reviews, there seem to be some mixed feelings about this novel but I have to say that I don't understand that ... I absolutely loved this novel. Meg Wolitzer has become an author that I can rely on for great reading ex...
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, and read-in-2014
Freakonomics: A Rogue Economist Explores the Hidden Side of Everything
liked it
I found this one to be interesting enough but it didn't blow me away. It was a nice book to dip into here and there as I had time. I don't think I would have enjoyed it if I'd tried to read it like I usually do with novels - I think this...
tagged: non-fiction, own-ebook, and read-in-2014
Land of Love and Drowning
really liked it
This novel may be one of my favorites of the year. I think the great thing about this novel is how it melds together great writing, history and magical realism into a beautiful piece of art! I will warn you that there is a very disturbin...
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, read-in-2014, and book-riot-recs
My Perfect Pantry: 150 Easy Recipes from 50 Essential Ingredients
really liked it
I'm a big Geoffrey Zakarian fan so I was thrilled to be given this cookbook by the publisher for an honest review. I was so happy to find that its a good cookbook for home cooks at a variety of levels! It's a really great resource guide ...
tagged: from-publisher, cookbook, and read-in-2014
Above Us Only Sky
it was amazing
Wow! I am just going to say it - I love this book and it may be one of my favorite books in a long while! What an amazing story! I could not put it down! This is a beautiful book about a girl born with wings (but has them removed) and ...
tagged: arc-copy, from-publisher, edelweis-netgalley_review, fiction, read-...
Bad Feminist
it was amazing
I absolutely loved all of these essays. Such thoughtful insights that gave me a lot to ponder over! I will say that Roxane Gay's essays are right up my alley - much of what she said really resonated with me! Only Roxane Gay can make me e...
tagged: non-fiction, own-ebook, read-in-2014, recommended-friends-or-blog, ...
The Children Act
it was ok
I'm starting to wonder whether or not it just might be that Ian McEwan isn't for me. I rarely find myself enjoying his novels so perhaps he and I just aren't a good fit. This book had such potential to resonate with me but it just never ...
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, books-on-the-nightstand-recommendat, and read-i...
Yes Please
really liked it
I love Amy Poehler and was so excited about this book! I've been waiting forever for it to be released! I find Amy to be hilarious and to have an interesting perspective. I enjoyed this book but it wasn't quite what I thought it might be...
tagged: non-fiction, memoir, own-ebook, read-in-2014, recommended-friends-o...
Lost Girls: An Unsolved American Mystery
really liked it
This is one of those fantastic non-fiction pieces that reads like really good fiction! The story is told in a compelling manner and it did a great job of putting all of the events together in a manageable way. He brought the women - the ...
tagged: busy-as-a-bee-books-group, own-ebook, non-fiction, recommended-frie...
Revival
it was amazing
There is nothing better than a new Stephen King novel - you know you'll be getting something amazing, page-turning, and compelling! And this novel is no exception! I enjoyed every moment of Revival - it had everything I look for in a go...
tagged: busy-as-a-bee-books-group, fiction, own-ebook, and read-in-2014
The Unquiet Dead
it was amazing
I love to read really smart, well written mysteries! They can be difficult to find sometimes but when you do, it's amazing! I would recommend this novel to fans of Tana French as there are similarities between this novel and Tana French'...
tagged: arc-copy, edelweis-netgalley_review, fiction, read-in-2014, and mys...
The Uncoupling
it was ok
I really wanted to love this book - the premise sounded unique and interesting. Unfortunately, the execution just didn't work for me. The characters felt like cardboard cut outs and I just didn't enjoy the reading of the book. It felt tr...
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, and read-in-2014
Lucky Us
liked it
Review to come
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, read-in-2014, and book-riot-recs

goodreads.com

Read in 2015

Echo Park
really liked it
Yet another great Harry Bosch novel ...
tagged: own-on-my-tbr-shelf, fiction, own-ebook, series-i-love, and read-in...
The Overlook
really liked it
Yet another great Bosch book!
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, read-in-2015, and series-i-love
Nine Dragons
really liked it
Quite liked this one but I think it was missing some of the magic that is Michael Connelly writing about LA!
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, series-i-love, and read-in-2015
The Scarecrow
it was amazing
I didn't expect to like this one nearly as much as I did. Loved the interplay between Jack and Rachel. Thought the Scarecrow was an interesting storyline!
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, series-i-love, and read-in-2015
The Brass Verdict
really liked it
I think Haller might be growing on me but I still prefer Bosch. :)
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, series-i-love, and read-in-2015
The Reversal
really liked it
Really enjoyed this one - loved seeing Mickey as a DA and having Bosch and Mickey's worlds cross.
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, series-i-love, and read-in-2015
The Fifth Witness
really liked it
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, series-i-love, and read-in-2015
The Drop
really liked it
Another strong novel. Really enjoyed the two case dynamics!
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, series-i-love, and read-in-2015
The Black Box
really liked it
Great story, Bosch at his best!
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, series-i-love, and read-in-2015
The Gods of Guilt
really liked it
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, series-i-love, and read-in-2015
The Girl on the Train
really liked it
This is a really good thriller - fast paced, interesting characters, solid story. It certainly didn't blow me away but I really liked it. I hate that it keeps getting compared to Gone Girl because I think that is an unfair comparison. Th...
tagged: own-ebook, fiction, recommended-friends-or-blog, and read-in-2015
The Kitchn Cookbook: Recipes, Kitchens & Tips to Inspire Your Cooking
it was amazing
I was pleasantly surprised by how wonderful this cookbook is ... I've never read the Kitchn blog but I think I may now. This cookbook is so much more than a traditional cookbook - it has elements that are rare in a cookbook but so great ...
tagged: cookbook, from-publisher, and read-in-2015
You
really liked it
You
Although it took awhile for me to adjust to the second person narrative, I ultimately think it was perfect for this particular novel. This is a disturbing, twisted novel about obsession, stalking, and psychopathology. It's definitely not...
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, read-in-2015, and books-on-the-nightstand-recom...
The Romanovs: The Final Chapter
liked it
I've always had a bit of fascination about the Romanovs, especially the fact that there are so many who claimed to be the children. My dad suggested that I might like this book, especially if I was interested in the imposter piece since ...
tagged: non-fiction, own-ebook, recommended-friends-or-blog, and read-in-2015
An Untamed State
it was amazing
Wow. This book is one of those books that stand out from others because it's brutal in content but also beautifully written. Despite the very real horrors in the story, I could not stop reading. I am rarely moved by a novel like I was by...
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, recommended-friends-or-blog, and read-in-2015
The Book of Unknown Americans
liked it
I am really struggling with rating this novel. It falls somewhere between a 3 and a 4 for me. There were some aspects of this novel that I think were fantastic but others just didn't resonate with me. The exploration of the immigrant e...
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, and read-in-2015
Leaving Time
really liked it
I really enjoyed this novel, much more than I expected based on the synopsis. I'm not going to talk much about this one because I think it's best to go into it not knowing much. Great story, great characters, gave me a greater appreciati...
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, read-in-2015, and books-on-the-nightstand-recom...
Glory O'Brien's History of the Future
really liked it
Now THIS is what YA should be ... A.S. King is one of the best YA authors that I've read. She writes realistic characters that feel true to life. I found the themes of this novel to be particularly interesting given what sort of future i...
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, young-adult, and read-in-2015
Being Mortal: Medicine and What Matters in the End
it was amazing
Wow! This is one of those books that I think everyone should read. It is such a thoughtful exploration of death and end of life. I keep thinking back to this book and the things it made me think about. It helped me see that I need to hav...
tagged: non-fiction, own-ebook, read-in-2015, and all-time-favorite
Red Rising
really liked it
I really enjoyed this book! Found there were a lot of parallels to Hunger Games and other similar books but this was a pretty refreshing take & I enjoyed it. Definitely recommend! Looking forward to reading the second in the trilogy! I'...
tagged: busy-as-a-bee-books-group, fiction, own-ebook, and read-in-2015
The Same Sky
really liked it
I really enjoyed this one - much more than I'd anticipated to be honest. It was really thought provoking yet a fairly easy read. I didn't want to put it down and finished it in just one day! I definitely recommend his one! This one dese...
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, and read-in-2015
Not That Kind of Girl: A Young Woman Tells You What She's "Learned"
did not like it
I just cannot keep reading this. Ugh! I like Girls but these essays just aren't working for me. I am lettung this one go.
tagged: non-fiction, own-ebook, memoir, abandoned, and read-in-2015
Practical Paleo: A Customized Approach to Health and a Whole-Foods Lifestyle
really liked it
Really informative and interesting. I'm not ready to go all-in Paleo but this book did a great job of laying it all out for me and I figure out what changes I want to make. I have read it in both ebook format and the actual physical book...
tagged: cookbook, non-fiction, own-ebook, read-in-2015, and own-on-my-tbr-s...
It Starts with Food: Discover the Whole30 and Change Your Life in Unexpected Ways
really liked it
Another great resource as I begin to think about changing my diet. I really felt it was informative and well-read. It made the complex science very easy to understand and gave me a great deal to think about. Definitely recommend!
tagged: own-ebook, non-fiction, cookbook, and read-in-2015
Supermarket Healthy: Recipes and Know-How for Eating Well Without Spending a Lot
it was ok
This rating makes me so sad because I love Melissa d'Arabian and was so hoping this would be a great cookbook for our family. Perhaps I'm not the right person for it and that's why it didn't resonate? I'm not sure but this one just didn'...
tagged: cookbook and read-in-2015
Fifty Shades of Grey
did not like it
I was talking about this book and someone asked me if I'd read it and I realized that I should read it before I comment on it. Well, the first time I started it, I gave up in 3 pages because the writing is sooooo bad. And then I tried a...
tagged: fiction, read-in-2015, busy-as-a-bee-books-group, and romance
Fifty Shades Freed
did not like it
I still can't quite believe that I actually read all 3 of these. I'm still not quite sure I get the hype over these but now I can honestly say they are horribly written books that I DO NOT recommend.
tagged: fiction, read-in-2015, and romance
Fifty Shades Darker
did not like it
I'm not really sure why I went ahead and read this one but I did. It was even worse than the first. If I hear about her inner goddess one more time I'm going to scream! It's the same metaphors over an over and over. These books are almos...
tagged: fiction, read-in-2015, and romance
Chesapeake
really liked it
This is my first Michener novel and I really enjoyed it. It wasn't a quick read due to its size but the stories within this novel were informative and interesting! Michener does an amazing job of including all the detail you could ever w...
tagged: fiction, own-on-my-tbr-shelf, recommended-friends-or-blog, own-eboo...
Ugly Love
it was amazing
I have had a number of bookish friends recommend that I read Colleen Hoover so I picked this one up to giver her a try. And, WOW, I am so happy that I did. Although this novel is technically a romance novel, it's so much more than that. ...
tagged: fiction, read-in-2015, recommended-friends-or-blog, and romance
Hopeless
really liked it
My second Colleen Hoover novel and another great read! Although I didn't love this one quite as much as the last, this one was also fantastic! If you want unique romance that is well written, interesting and keeps you emotionally compell...
tagged: own-ebook, fiction, read-in-2015, and romance
All the Bright Places
it was amazing
Wow! This book blew me away! This is some of the most well-written and brilliantly conceived young adult fiction that I've read. So good. It's a novel about mental health, adolescence, suicide, friendship and grief. And it's amazing! I...
tagged: own-ebook, fiction, read-in-2015, and young-adult
Slammed
really liked it
Oh Colleen Hoover! You are killing me! Yet another wonderful novel that made me cry like a baby! I read it in one sitting.
tagged: own-ebook, fiction, read-in-2015, and romance
Bared to You
did not like it
Ugh! I only read this as someone told me I might like it better than 50 Shades as it was written better. Yeah, not so much. In fact, I think 50 Shades was far superior to this one, despite it's flaws. At least I somewhat bought the Chris...
tagged: own-ebook, fiction, read-in-2015, and romance
Point of Retreat
really liked it
Yet another readable book from Colleen Hoover. Enjoyed revisiting with these characters in this book. I'm enjoying reading these right now while life is busy and I need more 'quick and easy' books!
tagged: own-ebook, fiction, read-in-2015, and romance
Maybe Someday
really liked it
Yet another really great book. It was a quick read but had a great deal of emotional punch! Colleen Hoover really knows how to write a compelling story!
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, nook, busy-as-a-bee-books-group, and read-in-2015
This Girl
liked it
Although I enjoyed revisiting this story line, I would have loved for there to be a little less repetition ... hearing the same story from his viewpoint was interesting except when it was repetitive. Good but not great!
tagged: own-ebook, fiction, read-in-2015, and romance
The Birth of the Pill: How Four Crusaders Reinvented Sex and Launched a Revolution
liked it
Good but not great ... I learned a lot but this was not as compelling as I'd hoped!
tagged: non-fiction, own-ebook, and read-in-2015
Maybe Not
really liked it
I'm enjoying reading romance right now since I've got such a crazy life that focusing on literary fiction has been difficult. I'm enjoying the lightness of these books.
tagged: own-ebook, fiction, read-in-2015, and romance
Beautiful Disaster
liked it
Another easy read - I liked this one but didn't love it. These easy to read romances are hitting the spot lately!
tagged: own-ebook, fiction, read-in-2015, and romance
Walking Disaster
liked it
Another easy read ... like the first one, I liked this one but didn't love it.
tagged: own-ebook, fiction, read-in-2015, and romance
The Headmaster
liked it
Although Tiffany Reisz can spin a tale (and write fairly well), this one didn't WOW me. It was good but not great. It was very readable and interesting but the overall impact wasn't as great as I'd hoped!
tagged: fiction, read-in-2015, and romance
Anna and the French Kiss
really liked it
What a pleasant surprise this book was ... very well written, well constructed, good character development, there was humor and good dialogue. Can't complain one bit! A nice little romance!
tagged: own-ebook, fiction, read-in-2015, recommended-friends-or-blog, and ...
One Plus One
liked it
It took me a really long time to get into this book and care at all about the characters and their journey.I think this one suffered from my having read Me Before You prior to this one. It just isn't as good as that one ... at all. But, ...
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, read-in-2015, and romance
Lola and the Boy Next Door
really liked it
tagged: own-ebook, fiction, read-in-2015, young-adult, and romance
Isla and the Happily Ever After
really liked it
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, read-in-2015, and romance
Confess
really liked it
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, and read-in-2015
The One That Got Away
really liked it
What a wonderful novel! The original description that I read indicated that it might be a good book for fans of Emily Giffen and Jennifer Weiner which drew me in as I love Emily Giffen, in particular. Given this is a debut novel, I was h...
tagged: from-publisher, arc-copy, fiction, edelweis-netgalley_review, read-...
The Devil in Denim
really liked it
Really enjoyed this sports focused romance.
tagged: recommended-friends-or-blog, own-ebook, fiction, read-in-2015, and ...
Angel in Armani
really liked it
tagged: recommended-friends-or-blog, fiction, own-ebook, read-in-2015, and ...
Seeing Me Naked
really liked it
This little book really surprised me - it was a light read but not at all simple. There was complexity and character development in this one that stands out among similar books!
tagged: busy-as-a-bee-books-group, own-ebook, fiction, recommended-friends-...
Nowhere But Home
really liked it
I really enjoyed this novel. Although it's a light read, there was a lot of complexity in this one. Very compelling story and multi-faceted characters. I really enjoyed how this explored themes of home, family and identity. Definitely re...
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, read-in-2015, and romance
More Like Her
really liked it
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, and read-in-2015
Before Jamaica Lane
really liked it
Yet another hit for me ... loving this series more with each book!
tagged: own-ebook, fiction, romance, and read-in-2015
Wallbanger
really liked it
Although I'm not at all impressed by the title (which seems a bit crude to me), I did really find this book to be quite good. It was quite funny with an interesting story. I could have done without the constant 'Missing O' stuff but I en...
tagged: own-ebook, fiction, romance, and read-in-2015
Easy
liked it
I am really struggling with rating this book - there were some aspects that I really enjoyed and others that just didn't do it for me. The story was fine, as were the characters. I liked how the book handled the sexual assault on campus ...
tagged: fiction, romance, own-ebook, and read-in-2015
Down London Road
really liked it
I am really loving this series ... and how I get to revisit the various characters throughout the books and see where they go/end up.
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, romance, and read-in-2015
On Dublin Street
really liked it
Another surprise - I was very impressed with what Samantha Young did in this novel - well written, good story, interesting characters, and the entire novel had depth that you don't typically find in the romance genre. I read this one in ...
tagged: romance, fiction, own-ebook, and read-in-2015
Fall from India Place
really liked it
Such a great escape ... loving this series so much! Fun, interesting and I love how the characters remain a part of the series and you get to revisit their lives.
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, romance, and read-in-2015
Echoes of Scotland Street
really liked it
Yet another good addition to this series. Now I have to find the patience to wait for the sixth book ...
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, romance, and read-in-2015
Hero
really liked it
I'm fast becoming a fan of Samantha Young's romance novels for adults. Very captivating and immensely readable!
tagged: fiction, read-in-2015, romance, and own-ebook
Clean Slate: A Cookbook and Guide: Reset Your Health, Detox Your Body, and Feel Your Best
liked it
I was really hopeful about this cookbook but it wasn't quite what I was expecting based on the description. Although I think this cookbook offers a lot, particularly to those interested in healthy eating and increasing whole foods in you...
tagged: cookbook and read-in-2015
A Little Life
it was amazing
I wish I could give 10 stars on Goodreads. This book deserves far more than just 5 stars! This book has flown up to the top of my ALL TIME FAVORITE BOOKS list! This one is definitely worthy of all of the hype it's received. This is an a...
tagged: from-publisher, own-ebook, arc-copy, fiction, edelweis-netgalley_re...
Into the Deep
really liked it
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, romance, and read-in-2015
Out of the Shallows
really liked it
tagged: fiction, romance, own-ebook, and read-in-2015
Be with Me
really liked it
by J. Lynn
tagged: romance, fiction, own-ebook, and read-in-2015
Wait for You
really liked it
tagged: romance, own-ebook, fiction, and read-in-2015
Stay with Me
really liked it
by J. Lynn
tagged: own-ebook, fiction, romance, and read-in-2015
Fall with Me
really liked it
by J. Lynn
tagged: fiction, read-in-2015, own-ebook, and romance
Tempting the Best Man
liked it
by J. Lynn
tagged: own-ebook, romance, fiction, and read-in-2015
The Deal
really liked it
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, romance, and read-in-2015
Rusty Nailed
liked it
Nice to revisit this couple from the first novel but this one wasn't nearly as good as the first. Still funny but this one was a bit slower than the last.
tagged: romance, fiction, own-ebook, and read-in-2015
Frigid
liked it
by J. Lynn
tagged: own-ebook, fiction, romance, and read-in-2015
The Coincidence of Callie & Kayden
really liked it
tagged: fiction, romance, own-ebook, and read-in-2015
The Redemption of Callie & Kayden
liked it
tagged: own-ebook, fiction, romance, and read-in-2015
Tempting the Player
really liked it
by J. Lynn
tagged: romance, fiction, own-ebook, and read-in-2015
Tempting the Bodyguard
really liked it
by J. Lynn
tagged: romance, own-ebook, fiction, and read-in-2015
Some like It Spicy
liked it
Good but not great. Seemed to move slowly but liked characters and story itself. Pretty predictable but I enjoyed it.
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, romance, and read-in-2015
Lick
liked it
Predictable but engaging.
tagged: own-ebook, romance, and read-in-2015
Trisha's Table: My Feel-Good Favorites for a Balanced Life
liked it
This is my first Trisha Yearwood cookbook. I really enjoy her show on the Food Network so I was eager to check this out. Overall, this is a good cookbook, not great but quite good. The book itself is constructed very well - the photos ...
tagged: cookbook, from-publisher, and read-in-2015
Play
really liked it
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, romance, and read-in-2015
Lead
really liked it
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, read-in-2015, and romance
Deep
really liked it
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, read-in-2015, and romance
The Destiny of Violet & Luke
liked it
tagged: romance, fiction, own-ebook, and read-in-2015
Chase Me
really liked it
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, romance, and read-in-2015
Star Crossed
really liked it
3.5 star rating, pushing to 4 stars
tagged: romance, fiction, own-ebook, and read-in-2015
Elias
did not like it
Not good. Couldn't keep reading. Stopped after 70 pages.
tagged: romance, fiction, own-ebook, abandoned, and read-in-2015
Lawless In Leather
really liked it
I really enjoyed this novel, the 3rd book in the New York Saints series. It gave me exactly what I've come to expect from Melanie Scott's work - a great story, interesting characters, and witty dialogue! I was eager to read this particul...
tagged: fiction, series-i-love, edelweis-netgalley_review, arc-copy, from-p...
All My Puny Sorrows
liked it
I had such big expectations for this novel but I really struggled with it. The themes are right down my alley but something about the execution just didn't quite work for me. I did like how the themes of depression, sisterhood and suicid...
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, busy-as-a-bee-books-group, and read-in-2015
Need Me
really liked it
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, romance, and read-in-2015
The Tusk That Did the Damage
really liked it
I really enjoyed this novel which gave me an entirely new insight into the ivory trade. I was concerned that having part of the story narrated by an elephant but I think that was a really great way to give a new perspective to the story....
tagged: books-on-the-nightstand-recommendat, own-ebook, fiction, recommende...
Sweetland
really liked it
Although the description of this one didn't do much for me, I kept hearing such good things that my curiosity got the best of me. And I'm so glad that I read this one. Such a beautiful story ... so beautifully written. I didn't understa...
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, book-riot-recs, read-in-2015, and recommended-f...
The Edge of Never
it was ok
Although this one was OK overall, I especially didn't like the last quarter of the book - it felt rushed and not very well thought out. It felt like a lost opportunity to me and I found myself disappointed.
tagged: romance, own-ebook, fiction, and read-in-2015
The Probability of Violet & Luke
it was ok
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, romance, and read-in-2015
The Certainty of Violet & Luke
it was ok
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, romance, and read-in-2015
The Mistake
really liked it
tagged: own-ebook, fiction, romance, and read-in-2015
Overruled
really liked it
tagged: fiction, own-ebook, romance, and read-in-2015
Where Women Are Kings
really liked it
Although this isn't a perfect book, I really think it was a really engaging read that I truly didn't want to put down. I'll try to do a more robust review some time but I did want to recommend it. There is a lot of thoughtful exploration...
tagged: own-ebook, fiction, recommended-friends-or-blog, and read-in-2015
The Short and Tragic Life of Robert Peace: A Brilliant Young Man Who Left Newark for the Ivy League
really liked it
This is a really engaging read that explores some really important things. I think it's a book that most people will enjoy - it's very well written narrative non-fiction. Such a tragic story that I highly recommend!
tagged: non-fiction, own-ebook, busy-as-a-bee-books-group, and read-in-2015

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