Hi readers 💌 I hope spring is treating you well! I’ve had a couple of weeks of intense reading, and I’m so excited to share my experiences with you…
What I read…
The Ministry of Time by Kaliane Bradley. This wasn't at all what I expected; it leaned more towards contemporary fiction than pure sci-fi. It started off as a fish-out-of-water comedy but in the final pages, it morphed into a fast-paced spy-action sci-fi novel.
Initially, I was quite captivated, drawn in by the author's writing style and intriguing premise. However, my interest waned as the story progressed; it dragged in the middle, and not much happened. My enthusiasm for the potential romance between the main characters dwindled, and by the time something significant occurred, I found myself pretty much indifferent. The revelations at the end took me by surprise, and I'm satisfied with how everything unfolded. That being said, I can't say the book left a lasting impression on me or that I'll remember it forever. Still, I'm looking forward to the TV adaptation; I believe they have the potential to do wonders with it.Long Time Gone by Charlie Donlea. I'm a big fan of Charlie Donlea, and this book gripped me from the start. The premise was captivating: an adopted woman discovers through DNA analysis that she's the long-lost daughter of a family who disappeared without a trace in the 90s. From this point on, she begins to collaborate with the son of the sheriff who was in charge of the investigation back then but died in mysterious circumstances.
The book was fast-paced, addictive, and featured likable characters. I read it in practically two sittings and had a great time with it. However, it wasn't my favorite Donlea book; in fact, I found it to be quite predictable compared to his usual work. With fewer characters, there was less room for surprises. Nevertheless, it was still an enjoyable thriller, and I eagerly await his next release.
The Which Way Tree by Elizabeth Crook. I wanted to read something different, and since I got this book for Christmas, it seemed like the perfect option. It turns out I like westerns (although I kinda knew that, tbh), and this was a lovely, original story whose narrator, Benjamin, captivated me from the very first page. Despite the tale being quite brutal at times, the main character’s humorous voice made it all enjoyable, and I practically read the book in two sittings.
I usually don’t like long epilogues and endings that seem to drag, but I loved what the author did in the last pages. It was the perfect way to honor a complex and unforgettable character like Sam. I’d love to read similar books, so I’m open to recommendations!
Kisscut (Grant County #2) by Karin Slaughter. I’ve always been a fan of Karin Slaughter and during the years I’ve read many of her books without any particular order. However, it wasn’t until a couple of weeks ago, watching the Will Trent show, that I decided to read both her series in the correct sequence (though I’m not sure if I’ll stick with it). This second book in her Grant County series is as dark, depressing, and twisted as it can be. It’s definitely not recommended if you’re super sensitive or want to avoid certain themes. This isn’t the first time I’ve wondered if Karin was okay when writing one of her books, but wow.
All in all, I still loved it. It kept me engaged despite being over 500 pages long, and even though I have yet to grow to love these characters, she has a way of introducing you to their world and never letting go.
What I watched…
Challengers (2024). I never expected to like a tennis movie so much, but the soundtrack, the editing and the actors made it super enjoyable, sexy and addictive.
Pieces of April (2003). Maaany years later, I finally watched this little gem that I had always wanted to see. It's a super indie film that is heartwarming, sad, funny, and lovely all at the same time.
Blue Lights (S02). One of my favorite shows, the second season was just as good as the first. It fills the Line of Duty void perfectly and I love Grace and Stevie so much 💘.
What about you? What are you reading? Any recent loves?
I'm definitely curious about Long Time Gone! And I agree that Karin Slaughter always writes such dark stories... The Grant County series would have been perfect if it wouldn't have been for Lena; I absolutely despise her character and it's the main reason I eventually stopped reading the Will Trent books (I did finish the Grant County series though).
How did I miss reading your Sunday recap? I ned to make sure I'm getting your posts via my email! I've never heard of The Which Way Tree but I loved what you said about it, going to check it out