It’s been a slow reading month so far. But I’ve still spent time with a few good books. Here’s what I’ve been reading:
The Midnight Queen, Sylvia Izzo Hunter
Merlin College student Graham Marshall agrees to participate in a dangerous prank. But when a classmate ends up dead, he suspects a more sinister plot. An entertaining (if slightly confusing) fantasy set in an alternate Regency-era England and France. Great settings, though I wanted more Oxford. The magical stuff was a little obtuse, but I liked the characters.
Counting Thyme, Melanie Conklin
When Thyme Owens’ brother gets into a new drug trial for cancer patients, her family moves from San Diego to New York City. All Thyme wants is to go home, but she gradually finds a few things (and people) to love in New York. A fresh, winsome middle-grade novel about home, family and building a good life even when things are hard. (Out in April 2016 – I received an ARC from the author.)
Home by Nightfall, Charles Finch
While investigating the disappearance of a German pianist in London, gentleman detective Charles Lenox is called away to stay with his recently widowed brother in Sussex. The brothers are drawn into a mystery in their home village. I like Lenox and his supporting cast, and this mystery was well plotted and satisfying, though I rather wish the two cases had connected. To review for Shelf Awareness (out Nov. 10).
The Bloody Tower, Carola Dunn
Daisy Dalrymple Fletcher spends a night at the Tower of London to gather material for an article. But when a guard is murdered, she and her husband end up investigating. I love Daisy, but this story dragged. Too much focus on the layout of the Tower and the politics of its military troops.
Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear, Elizabeth Gilbert
I’ve been loving Gilbert’s Magic Lessons podcast, which is a companion to this series of essays and musings on creativity. But the book was a mixed bag. Some gorgeous lines that rang true and wise; some advice that felt too woo-woo or patronizing. It’s still worth reading if you’re curious.
I’m in the middle of several books and recently put down a couple I wasn’t loving. I’m hoping for a better reading roundup next time, though I did love Counting Thyme.
Most links (not affiliate links) are to my favorite local bookstore, Brookline Booksmith. It’s also pictured above.
I’m linking up with Anne at Modern Mrs. Darcy for Quick Lit.
What are you reading?
I look forward to your Reading Roundup each month! I’ve already requested the first Charles Lenox mystery at the library.
I’m almost done with Big Magic, and your assessment is spot-on…
I just finished The Residence: Inside the Private World of the White House by Kate Andersen Brower. It is excellent! I’ve read many books on White House history, but this is the first I’ve read that told the stories of the people who’ve worked there.
I’m going to be re-reading Hans Brinker, or The Silver Skates. I’m always in the mood to read it when the weather gets colder.
I also picked up a travel guide to England from our library. When I’m feeling restless I like to do a little armchair travel!