Book Review // May 2022
By some miracle, I read 6 fiction books in a month. That feels like more than I read in the first 3 months of 2022! Between short stories and novels, taking a break from personal development books felt like the right shift as I head into summer. I enjoyed each of these books for different reasons. If you’re loving a fiction book, please share with me in the comments.
“The Devil and the Dark Water” by Stuart Turton
A lengthy who-done-it on the high seas. I kept thinking how awful would it be to sail across the ocean on a ship for 8 months. Wow we have come a long way in 400 years since the book took place in the 1600’s. I had a hunch who the “bad guy” was but with many twists and turns it kept me guessing as well. If you like paranormal and supernatural themes then check out “The Devil and the Dark Water.”
“Seasonal Work” by Laura Lippman
I have been reading books by Baltimore-based Laura Lippman for years now. I love knowing the intersections, restaurants and neighborhoods as these are places I have been or can picture where they are in Charm City. The stories feel authentic, like I’m talking to a Baltimore friend about their life. This collection of short stories was fast paced and interesting. Lippman’s style is detailed but not stuffy. She makes me want to write more short stories.
“The Rose Code” by Kate Quinn
Historical fiction is always cool. With a glimpse into a life that very well could have been lived / was lived by a similar person, “The Rose Code” is about female code crackers for the British in the 1940’s. The role of women in WW2 cannot be overstated. Ladies truly helped win the war and changed the course of history. The themes of mental health, female friendship and patriotism made this a well-rounded book. Fans of historical fiction will love “The Rose Code.”
“Remarkably Bright Creatures” by Shelby Van Pelt
Anytime a narrator is an octopus it makes for an interesting book. I loved the interconnecting story lines and the great care the author took to be both empathetic and realistic (well, for a talking octopus that is) Also cool that two things I love, SUP and Jam Bands, were included as touchstones here. Family love, dedication and forgiveness are also explored in this book set in the Pacific Northwest.
“Unlikely Animals” by Annie Hartnett
Funny and tragic with characters both dead and alive, I loved “Unlikely Animals.” As a family settles into a new normal they explore the bonds and depth of their love for each other and a town in the Northeast griped by the heroine epidemic. With quirky characters and funny story lines, this is a great book to bring to the pool or beach with you this summer.
“The Stranger in the Lifeboat” by Mitch Albom
Another book mixing the sweet with the sad. A mystery in a boat (yes, the 2nd one for me this month…what is my subconscious trying to tell me?) about the nature of God. I found this slow in some points but there were a few spiritual gems as well. It was similar to Albom’s other books, “Tuesdays with Morrie” and “The Next Person You Meet in Heaven” so if you’re familiar with those, you could pass on “The Stranger in the Lifeboat.”
Monthly Total: 6
Yearly Total: 28