August, 2020

"The Book of Two Ways" by Jodi Picoult         

Dawn, once on the way to becoming a archaeologist focused on Egypt, feels stuck. Married to Brian, a professor, Dawn is a death doula, a professional who helps those dying come to terms and fulfill their last wishes. However, she can't help thinking of her ex, Wyatt, and what might have been. In Egypt mythology, there are two paths through the afterworld. This book is split into two paths also. In one path, after surviving a plane crash, Dawn flies to Egypt towards Wyatt. In the other path, she turns back towards her husband and daughter.         

This was an interesting and well written book. I loved how the author used the alternate storylines to progress the story. The characters were dynamic and realistic. The read as if the author was an expert in both archaeology and all things Egypt. Overall highly recommended!

"Stranger in the Shogun's City" by Amy Stanley         

The life of Tsuneno, the daughter of a Buddhist priest, has been recorded in temple records via letters, documents, and notations. After three divorces, Tsuneno runs away to Edo, where she is forced to live in abject poverty. Determined to make her own way, she finds menial work, and marries on her own.          

This book was written in a more scholarly fashion, with the author speculating on Tsuneno's life based on primary sources and the history of Edo. At times the book was dry and tedious, however, the personality of Tsuneno shined through. Overall, 4 out of 5 stars.

"The Midnight Library" by Matt Haif         

Profoundly unhappy, Nora decides to swallow pills and commit suicide. Between life and death she finds herself in a library. Every book in the library allows her to live a life where she made a different decision. Trying to find her perfect scenario, Nora drifts from life to life, experiencing and learning as she goes.         

This was a really interesting book. I enjoyed the plot and the different lives that the author decided to highlight. At first, I found Nora to be a bit unlikable, but as the book progressed I enjoyed her more and more. I would definitely read more from this author.

"The Woman in the Moonlight" by Patricia Morrisroe         

When Julie Guicciardi meets Beethoven, she is instantly enthralled by his intensity and eccentricities. Under the guise of taking piano lessons, she finds a way to be close to him. Naturally, she begins to fall head over heels for him, and finds herself taking risks that could destroy her life.          

Although this book started strong, it really seemed to bog down in the middle. I don't know that there was enough going on between the two to keep me interested. In reality, it seems that Julie pined for Beethoven, while he moved on to other lovers. Overall, not a book I would reread or recommend.

"Titan Martyrs" by Kate Rauner         

This is the final book in the Titan trilogy. Fynn has moved onboard the space station, and Kin are rotating to the station to avoid gravity sickness. When a blackout occurs on the space station, Kin panic and flock back to the colony.          

This was a strong finish to the series. The characters are well developed, and very relatable. I found the cult aspect of the series fascinating. It really added an interesting dynamic to the book. Kate is an expert at world building, and adding the details to make everything feel realistic. I look forward to reading more from this author!

"Fifty Words for Rain" by Asha Lemmie         

Eight year old Nori is abandoned by her mother and placed with her grandparents. A child of mixed heritage, Nori is hidden in the attic and constantly belittled as a bastard. When her half brother Akira, moves to their grandparents, Nori is instantly fascinated and drawn to him. As soon as Akira is sent off to school, her grandparents sell her to a brothel.         

I have mixed feelings about this book. The book switched between Nori's point of view, and the point of view of individuals surrounding Nori. The points of view of characters around Nori, did not seem to match how Nori was portrayed in her sections. The book didn't quite feel realistic and the characters were pretty stereotypical. I also found the ending to be disappointing. Overall, this book was a bust.