Echo - This came highly recommended to me from my mom. I was a but doubtful at first since she said it was young adult, but I trust my mom's opinion and know we like similar books so I went for it. I'm so glad I did, too. It's so well written and you really get drawn into the story. If you saw the movie The Red Violin, then you'll enjoy this book as well. It basically follows a harmonica through the hands of three children. There is history (WWII) woven into the story, too. I totally didn't think I was reading young adult, in fact I questioned it when I was reading it.
The Nightingale - There has been a lot of hype about this book. It's been on the best seller list for awhile. It took me some time to start reading it because it's a WWII story and I wasn't sure if such an intense topic was what I felt like with a baby. I also knew it was going to have some sad parts and crying while nursing would be awkward. However, every time I needed to pick a new book, I thought and thought about this one, so I finally gave in and read it. It's truly a wonderful story. Yes, it's sad but it's full of courage, strength, and resilience. After I read these war stories, I'm always in awe that there were people out there that did these types of things. People can be so strong. Definitely worth a read (even if it means a few tears...because yes I did cry, but not while nursing).
Storied Life of A.J. Fiery - I picked this book because it looks light-hearted and heart-warming. I didn't want to get into any too deep or heavy since I was often reading while holding a baby. It made me think of You've Got Mail and The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society. It did fulfill these expectations, but it wasn't so completely light-hearted as I thought. It actually made me a bit tearful, but that's because you get so connected with the characters. I enjoyed reading this and would recommend it, but I say pick up Echo or The Nightingale first.
Dead Wake - I have enjoyed Erik Larson's other books, so I figured I probably would like this one as well. I generally don't read much non-fiction, but I do like how his non-fiction still reads like a story. I learned a lot reading this book, and I absolutely love it when I can learn something when I read - entertaining yet educational! I wouldn't say it was my favorite Larson book, but I certainly thought it was worth reading.
Outlander: Drums of Autumn - Ah yes, my guilty pleasure book. This is book 5 of the Outlander series. I have 3 more books to go! The adventures of Claire and her Highlander, haha, I love it. The books are pretty long, so I like to read a few books in-between. These aren't too heavy, in fact if it weren't for some of the history in them they'd be labeled romance novels. So yea, guilty pleasure but you gotta indulge in these every once in a while. ;)
The Night Circus - This book was so spellbinding. It's really hard to describe. Maybe a mix of Harry Potter with a drop of Hunger Games and a sparkling of The Prestige. Or, maybe just more of an adult version of Harry Potter. I don't know, but it was exquisite! I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and I got swept into it. It was pre-baby, and I recall staying up far too late (to my husband's chagrin) when I neared the end of the story.
I've also ready Bringing Up Bebe, but I think I'll leave this review to a more parenthood or mom-focused post.
Now, I'm starting to read The Martian since my hubby encouraged me to read it. I enjoyed the movie, so why not!
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