Chelsey’s April Reads
I have not met a book that I regret finishing. But my list of books to not read again is growing…
I have recently found myself in a growing book club; one that started with three of us who happened to be reading the same book is now (only in its third month) at 7 or 8 other women. Because of this group I have read books I wouldn’t have likely picked up - and finished them when I probably would have set them aside. This was also a month of heavier topics which I could definitely feel the effect of by the end of April. I am looking forward to fluffier plots and more sunshine next month!
Great, Big, Beautiful Life by Emily Henry (4 stars) - So much of this story is what I’ve come to love about author Emily Henry. But there was almost as much lacking. The storyline was compelling enough to keep reading, waiting for a little more umpfh, only to be left a little disappointed. I would recommend any Emily Henry novel simply because I love her writing. However Great Big Beautiful Life doesn’t hit the highest mark I’d expect from Emily Henry.
Wish You Were Here by Jodi Picoult (4.5 stars) - Jodi Picoult is an author who challenges my personal comfort zone without me acutely aware of it.
Wish You Were Here is a thrilling story that pulled me in almost instantly. The vivid description of surroundings and inner turmoil of weighing decisions in life left me feeling all too real, raw, and exposed.
Get A Life, Chloe Brown by Talia Hibbert (3 stars) - Chloe Brown has a brush with potential disaster that made her look at her life - and decide to make some changes! I appreciated the representation of lifestyles, recovery, and physical challenges that are portrayed in the characters. As far as sexuality and scenes, I would say this book borders that of Lucy Score, but with less finesse.
The Boyfriend by Freida McFadden (3 stars) - This is the second Freida McFadden book and while they are intriguing and keep me turning pages, I’m left feeling more than a little deflated at the end of her stories. The characters all have a past that peeks through the cracks which can make anyone a suspect. Freida seems to lean heavily on a late to the game plot twist. The Boyfriend was no exception. While I expected as much, the actual moment did not leave me gasping in shock.
Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman (2 stars) - If I had not been a group reading this, I wouldn’t have finished it.
This novel examines the life of Miss Eleanor Oliphant. Seemingly an outsider by her own admission, Miss Oliphant does not leave much space for wonder or imagination in her life; routines and met expectations offer the best chances for success. An unlikely acquaintance helps her see her own value and encourages a different outlook through their uncommon meetings.