Sophie

October, AKA the month of me somewhat trying to actually read like an adult! So, some updates.

First, the YA portion: I had to read Clockwork Princess by Cassandra Clare for a challenge on Goodreads. I hate Cassandra Clare so this was a bit painful but I actually was able to do it! I also read Magic Steps by Tamora Pierce (meh, she's written better) and Spy Glass (Glass #3) by Maria V. Snyder which was definitely better than the other two books but still a 3-star read.

OK, adult books now! I read Dime Store Magic (Women of the Otherworld #3) by Kelley Armstrong. I like Kelley Armstrong and I like witches so I thought for sure that I would like DSM but again, just ok. While it was as interesting as a supernatural custody battle could be, could still have been a lot better and the main character was a bit irritating. Industrial Magic (book #4) was a lot better and had a more interesting plot and cast of characters. 4 stars!

For class I had to read Lame Deer, Seeker of Visions by John (Fire) Lame Deer, as well as Sundiatta, An Epic of Old Mali by D.T. Niane. Both are a bit unfair to rate because while I liked the stories and found them both really interesting, I ALSO had to read them for class which always brings down the enjoyment a bit because you know you have to analyze it in a specific way while reading it and have to keep a paper topic or test questions in mind. But I still definitely enjoyed reading them.

I also FINALLY read Gillian Flynn novels for the first time. I've been hearing about her for ages and have definitely been curious, but also a bit of a wimp because when it comes to reading, I feel things like fear super easily. Reading Gone Girl was a personal challenge, but what surprised me was that a few days later I read Dark Places too. After putting her off for a couple years, I read 2 in under a week. So, Gone Girl! It was interesting once I got past the bit boring first half, but once I got to the twist it picked up. Still didn't really like it much. And the ending left me really dissatisfied which actually made me worried about reading Dark Places. I gave GG 3 stars.

I liked Dark Places more. I read it at night only intending to read a few chapters, but ended up reading the whole thing in one sitting, which is always a good sign. I find it absolutely fascinating how Gillian Flynn really doesn't try to make her characters likable. Still, Libby did grow on me throughout the book. I'm also not usually a fan of multiple perspective but strangely didn't mind it here. Overall, I gave the book 3.5-4 stars.

I will try to post another update soon :)