My first couple of weeks in Madrid have been a whirlwind: moving into a 16 person flat, starting my teaching job, winding up lost in the Spanish streets. I won’t ramble on, but feel free to read more about my first week here. Shameless plug aside, I’ve finally found some time to wrap-up the books I read in September.
I’ve barely had a moment to read properly since being here, merely having read a few pages during the short metro rides to work, so October’s wrap-up is looking to be a short one. I’m also missing my beloved paperbacks; the Kindle app hasn’t quite won me over just yet. Nonetheless, although I’m a week late posting this, I discovered a couple of favourites last month which were too good not to share. So without further ado, here are the books I disliked, loved and adored last month.
Station Eleven – Emily St. John Mandel, 5 stars
Just a couple of chapters in, I knew this book would become one of my all-time favourites.
Station Eleven is a post-apocalyptic novel with events taking place before, during and after the pandemic of the Georgian flu. The human race collapses and takes everything we have come to know with it. Phones, air travel, medicine, spacecraft, the Internet, everything.
This is a character-driven novel which tells stories from multiple perspectives and I was left amazed at how all the characters have connected roots, Hollywood actor Arthur Leander being the thread which ties them all together.
Mandel faultlessly weaves the timelines together leaving me captivated and intrigued by the blossoming relationships, dilemmas faced, and back-stories of characters.
No matter how much I wanted to discover what happened to Station Eleven’s poignant characters, I didn’t want it to end. Everyone needs to read this!!
The Fellowship of the Ring – J R.R. Tolkien, 2 stars
I really wanted to love this book, especially after declaring The Hobbit as one of my all-time-favourites just a couple of months ago. However, I found this book incredibly dull. Does that renounce my love for the genre? Not at all. I just set my expectations way too high and ended up disappointed and, well, bored.
I found Tolkien’s descriptions so lengthy that I found myself skimming over them. The plot unfolded at a snail’s pace to the point where the action (what little there was) felt underwhelming. There must have been fifty-seven descriptions of the group taking breaks, eating some food, falling asleep before setting off and doing it all over again. Yeah, I lost interest.
There’s no disregarding that Tolkien is an incredible linguist, having created a vivid landscape, developed the Elvish tongue, and created a whole history for this world and has gone on to inspire hundreds of writers. His writing style just isn’t for everyone. I’m sorry!
Four – Andy Jones, 4 stars
Okay so I have a full book review for this one in the works so I won’t reveal too much, but if you’re craving a scandalous novel full of drama and deceit to sink your teeth into, Four will not disappoint.
After a night which will inevitably have life-long repercussions, this is a novel full of flawed characters, bad decisions, and modern-day relationship scandals. I really enjoyed this one! Keep your eyes open for the full review coming soon.
(Thanks to NetGalley and Hodder & Stoughton for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review!)
Illuminae -Amie Kaufman & Jay Kristoff, 5 stars
Annnd two books later we have yet another new favourite. Never have I ever read anything so unique and enthralling.
Illuminae is an action-packed story about corruption and a deadly virus outbreak all taking place in space over 500 years from now. What’s more, it’s told entirely through data files; audio recordings, chat logs, surveillance footage. It shouldn’t work, but it did. The characters and the plot by no means suffered due to this unconventional format and the one-worded pages meant I flicked through the pages as quick as the fast-paced action which unfolded before my eyes. The characters, the AI system, the refreshing format, why it took me so long to begin this series I have no idea.
I swallowed this book whole and I can’t wait to dive into the next one in the series!
The Graveyard Book – Neil Gaiman, 4 stars
This is a story of a boy growing up in a graveyard which is woven into an adventure of magic, mystery and danger. A bildungsroman novel at its core, we witness young Bod grow up, overcome problems and eventually leave his adopted ghost family.
I love how a few years pass between chapters which all feature equally exhilarating adventures, with Bod confronting different problems as he grows up. The only thing that I wasn’t sold on was the whole Jack having a burning need to kill Bod’s family thing. I’m still left with questions just as to WHY he wanted to kill them. Nonetheless, Gaiman’s witty prose and whimsy narration kept me turning the pages. I loved this story and I can’t wait to read more by him!
Mirage – Somaiya Daud, 4 stars
As with ‘Four’, a full review will be up on the blog soon for this sci-fi fantasy novel. A captivating story of love, loss, friendship and repression, we follow our heroine, Amani, on a journey as she grows to become fierce in her desire to save others and protect her indigenous culture and traditions.
I paced through Daud’s seamless writing and although it’s not action-packed, readers of romantic, tense and slow-burning fantasy will be enthralled. I look forward to reading more in the series!
(Thank you NetGalley and Hodder & Stoughton for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.)
Have you read any of these books? What was your favourite read in September?
Evie
♥
I haven’t read any of these but I’ll definitely be adding some to my TBR. Station Eleven looks right up my alley, love a bit of dystopia!
Megan // https://pixieskiesblog.wordpress.com/
Ah let me know if you end up reading Station Eleven, the way it’s told over multiple timelines and perspectives is so interesting, you’ll love it! Thanks for reading x
I read the Illuminae Files earlier this year and it became a favorite series of mine.
The first book definitely lived up to the hype, need to read the next one asap! Thanks for reading x
I found The Lord of the Rings trilogy really hard to read and didn’t really like it. I always feel bad admitting that but I prefer the films! Will definitely be checking out Station Eleven ?
Ah glad I’m not alone! Feel so ashamed to say I didn’t enjoy it when it’s such a renowned series. Hope you love Station Eleven! ?
Still bummed that you didn’t enjoy The Fellowship of the Ring haha! Wow, Station Eleven sounds right up my street, I’m adding that to my TBR!!
twinklexthoughts.blogspot.com
Hahaha I know I know I’m sorry! But yes definitely read Station Eleven! The way it’s told over multiple timelines from different character perspectives was so interesting, you’ll love it ?
Love this roundup! I love post apocalyptic novels so Station Eleven sounds right up my street. Just like you, I found LOTR books very dull, usually I prefer books to movie adaptations but in this case the movies rule! Thanks for sharing xx
Thank you for your thoughts and recommendations, Evie! I haven’t read any of these books but I’m definitely going to look into a couple of them now that I’ve read your opinions. I’m planning a ‘Books I’ve Read Recently’-style post soon, so I’ll share it with you when it’s live to get your opinions and see if you’ve read any of them too!
Nati x | http://www.naticreates.com
Awesome reads! I looove The Graveyard Book ?
https://jendbibliophile.wordpress.com
Station Eleven sounds like a book that I would read in a day! I’m definitely going to pick it up!
Love, Amie ❤
The Curvaceous Vegan
It’s amazing! You’ll love it ?
I feel exactly the same way about Tolkien’s books! The Hobbit was so good but The Lord of the Rings books were just too dense for me. I’m glad you loved Illuminae! It’s such a hyped book but it totally deserves all the praise it gets. I thought it was just brilliant.
Oooh Illuminae sounds amazing, I’m defintiely going to check that one out! I love this round up and defintiely needed some book inspiration. I feel the same about paperbacks too, I’ve downloaded some books to mine phone and it’s just nowhere near the same!
Soph – https://sophhearts.com x
Your article helped me a lot, is there any more related content? Thanks! https://www.binance.com/sk/register?ref=S5H7X3LP
Spor Haberleri Futbol, basketbol, tenis ve diğer spor dallarından en güncel haberler. Spor dünyasının nabzını tutan kaynak
Sight Care is a natural supplement designed to improve eyesight and reduce dark blindness. With its potent blend of ingredients. https://sightcarebuynow.us/
SightCare supports overall eye health, enhances vision, and protects against oxidative stress. Take control of your eye health and enjoy the benefits of clear and vibrant eyesight with Sight Care. https://sightcarebuynow.us/
AquaPeace is an all-natural nutritional formula that uses a proprietary and potent blend of ingredients and nutrients to improve overall ear and hearing health and alleviate the symptoms of tinnitus. https://aquapeacebuynow.us/
Claritox Pro™ is a natural dietary supplement that is formulated to support brain health and promote a healthy balance system to prevent dizziness, risk injuries, and disability. This formulation is made using naturally sourced and effective ingredients that are mixed in the right way and in the right amounts to deliver effective results. https://claritoxprobuynow.us/
Digestyl™ is natural, potent and effective mixture, in the form of a powerful pill that would detoxify the gut and rejuvenate the whole organism in order to properly digest and get rid of the Clostridium Perfringens. https://digestylbuynow.us/
Sonovive™ is an all-natural supplement made to address the root cause of tinnitus and other inflammatory effects on the brain and promises to reduce tinnitus, improve hearing, and provide peace of mind. https://sonovivebuynow.us/
TropiSlim is the world’s first 100% natural solution to support healthy weight loss by using a blend of carefully selected ingredients. https://tropislimbuynow.us/
Herpagreens is a dietary supplement formulated to combat symptoms of herpes by providing the body with high levels of super antioxidants, vitamins
Aizen Power is an all-natural supplement designed to improve male health. This formula contains the beneficial properties of various plants, herbs, minerals, and vitamins that help men’s blood circulation, detoxification, and overall health. https://aizenpowerbuynow.us/
BioFit is an all-natural supplement that is known to enhance and balance good bacteria in the gut area. To lose weight, you need to have a balanced hormones and body processes. Many times, people struggle with weight loss because their gut health has issues. https://biofitbuynow.us/
FlowForce Max is an innovative, natural and effective way to address your prostate problems, while addressing your energy, libido, and vitality. https://flowforcemaxbuynow.us/
Glucofort Blood Sugar Support is an all-natural dietary formula that works to support healthy blood sugar levels. It also supports glucose metabolism. According to the manufacturer, this supplement can help users keep their blood sugar levels healthy and within a normal range with herbs, vitamins, plant extracts, and other natural ingredients. https://glucofortbuynow.us/
LeanBiome is designed to support healthy weight loss. Formulated through the latest Ivy League research and backed by real-world results, it’s your partner on the path to a healthier you. https://leanbiomebuynow.us/
Serolean, a revolutionary weight loss supplement, zeroes in on serotonin—the key neurotransmitter governing mood, appetite, and fat storage. https://seroleanbuynow.us/
https://gutvitabuynow.us/
Neurozoom crafted in the United States, is a cognitive support formula designed to enhance memory retention and promote overall cognitive well-being. https://neurozoombuynow.us/
https://zoracelbuynow.us/
Java Burn is a proprietary blend of metabolism-boosting ingredients that work together to promote weight loss in your body. https://javaburnbuynow.us/
EndoPump is a dietary supplement for men’s health. This supplement is said to improve the strength and stamina required by your body to perform various physical tasks. Because the supplement addresses issues associated with aging, it also provides support for a variety of other age-related issues that may affect the body. https://endopumpbuynow.us/
Alpha Tonic is a powder-based supplement that uses multiple natural herbs and essential vitamins and minerals to helpoptimize your body’s natural testosterone levels. https://alphatonicbuynow.us/
EyeFortin is an all-natural eye-health supplement that helps to keep your eyes healthy even as you age. It prevents infections and detoxifies your eyes while also being stimulant-free. This makes it a great choice for those who are looking for a natural way to improve their eye health. https://eyefortinbuynow.us/
BioVanish a weight management solution that’s transforming the approach to healthy living. In a world where weight loss often feels like an uphill battle, BioVanish offers a refreshing and effective alternative. This innovative supplement harnesses the power of natural ingredients to support optimal weight management. https://biovanishbuynow.us/
Amiclear is a dietary supplement designed to support healthy blood sugar levels and assist with glucose metabolism. It contains eight proprietary blends of ingredients that have been clinically proven to be effective. https://amiclearbuynow.us/
Boostaro is a dietary supplement designed specifically for men who suffer from health issues. https://boostarobuynow.us/
Illuderma is a serum designed to deeply nourish, clear, and hydrate the skin. The goal of this solution began with dark spots, which were previously thought to be a natural symptom of ageing. The creators of Illuderma were certain that blue modern radiation is the source of dark spots after conducting extensive research. https://illudermabuynow.us/
Neurodrine is a nootropic supplement that helps maintain memory and a healthy brain. It increases the brain’s sharpness, focus, memory, and concentration. https://neurodrinebuynow.us/
Dentitox Pro is a liquid dietary solution created as a serum to support healthy gums and teeth. Dentitox Pro formula is made in the best natural way with unique, powerful botanical ingredients that can support healthy teeth. https://dentitoxbuynow.us/
DentaTonic is a breakthrough solution that would ultimately free you from the pain and humiliation of tooth decay, bleeding gums, and bad breath. It protects your teeth and gums from decay, cavities, and pain. https://dentatonicbuynow.us/
Reliver Pro is a dietary supplement formulated with a blend of natural ingredients aimed at supporting liver health
Nervogen Pro is an effective dietary supplement designed to help patients with neuropathic pain. When you combine exotic herbs, spices, and other organic substances, your immune system will be strengthened. https://nervogenprobuynow.us/
Puralean incorporates blends of Mediterranean plant-based nutrients, specifically formulated to support healthy liver function. These blends aid in naturally detoxifying your body, promoting efficient fat burning and facilitating weight loss. https://puraleanbuynow.us/
Researchers consider obesity a world crisis affecting over half a billion people worldwide. Vid Labs provides an effective solution that helps combat obesity and overweight without exercise or dieting. https://leanotoxbuynow.us/
SynoGut is an all-natural dietary supplement that is designed to support the health of your digestive system, keeping you energized and active. https://synogutbuynow.us/
Fast Lean Pro is a herbal supplement that tricks your brain into imagining that you’re fasting and helps you maintain a healthy weight no matter when or what you eat. It offers a novel approach to reducing fat accumulation and promoting long-term weight management. https://fastleanprobuynow.us/
GlucoTrust is a revolutionary blood sugar support solution that eliminates the underlying causes of type 2 diabetes and associated health risks. https://glucotrustbuynow.us/
Erec Prime is a natural formula designed to boost your virility and improve your male enhancement abilities, helping you maintain long-lasting performance. This product is ideal for men facing challenges with maintaining strong erections and desiring to enhance both their size and overall health. https://erecprimebuynow.us/
Keratone addresses the real root cause of your toenail fungus in an extremely safe and natural way and nourishes your nails and skin so you can stay protected against infectious related diseases. https://keratonebuynow.us/
LeanFlux is a revolutionary dietary formula specially crafted for individuals dealing with obesity and those on a weight loss journey. https://leanfluxbuynow.us/
ProDentim is a nutritional dental health supplement that is formulated to reverse serious dental issues and to help maintain good dental health. https://prodentimbuynow.us/
Folixine is a enhancement that regrows hair from the follicles by nourishing the scalp. It helps in strengthening hairs from roots. https://folixinebuynow.us/
Kerassentials are natural skin care products with ingredients such as vitamins and plants that help support good health and prevent the appearance of aging skin. They’re also 100% natural and safe to use. The manufacturer states that the product has no negative side effects and is safe to take on a daily basis. Kerassentials is a convenient, easy-to-use formula. https://kerassentialsbuynow.us/
Sugar Defender is the #1 rated blood sugar formula with an advanced blend of 24 proven ingredients that support healthy glucose levels and natural weight loss. https://sugardefenderbuynow.us/
Wild Stallion Pro, a natural male enhancement supplement, promises noticeable improvements in penis size and sexual performance within weeks. Crafted with a blend of carefully selected natural ingredients, it offers a holistic approach for a more satisfying and confident sexual experience. https://wildstallionprobuynow.us/
Are you tired of looking in the mirror and noticing saggy skin? Is saggy skin making you feel like you are trapped in a losing battle against aging? Do you still long for the days when your complexion radiated youth and confidence? https://refirmancebuynow.us/
Unlock the incredible potential of Puravive! Supercharge your metabolism and incinerate calories like never before with our unique fusion of 8 exotic components. Bid farewell to those stubborn pounds and welcome a reinvigorated metabolism and boundless vitality. Grab your bottle today and seize this golden opportunity! https://puravivebuynow.us/
Island Post is the website for a chain of six weekly newspapers that serve the North Shore of Nassau County, Long Island published by Alb Media. The newspapers are comprised of the Great Neck News, Manhasset Times, Roslyn Times, Port Washington Times, New Hyde Park Herald Courier and the Williston Times. Their coverage includes village governments, the towns of Hempstead and North Hempstead, schools, business, entertainment and lifestyle. https://islandpost.us/
Looking for quick and easy dinner ideas? Browse 100
Stri is the leading entrepreneurs and innovation magazine devoted to shed light on the booming stri ecosystem worldwide. https://stri.us/
Money Analysis is the destination for balancing life and budget – from money management tips, to cost-cutting deals, tax advice, and much more. https://moneyanalysis.us/
The latest health news, wellness advice, and exclusives backed by trusted medical authorities. https://healthmap.us/
The one-stop destination for vacation guides, travel tips, and planning advice – all from local experts and tourism specialists. https://travelerblog.us/
Outdoor Blog will help you live your best life outside – from wildlife guides, to safety information, gardening tips, and more. https://outdoorblog.us/
Maryland Post: Your source for Maryland breaking news, sports, business, entertainment, weather and traffic https://marylandpost.us/
Food
The LB News is the local news source for Long Beach and the surrounding area providing breaking news, sports, business, entertainment, things to do, opinion, photos, videos and more https://lbnews.us/
The latest video game news, reviews, exclusives, streamers, esports, and everything else gaming. https://zaaz.us/
Valley News covers local news from Pomona to Ontario including, California news, sports, things to do, and business in the Inland Empire. https://valleynews.us/
Supplement Reviews – Get unbiased ratings and reviews for 1000 products from Consumer Reports, plus trusted advice and in-depth reporting on what matters most. https://supplementreviews.us/
The Boston Post is the leading source of breaking news, local news, sports, politics, entertainment, opinion and weather in Boston, Massachusetts. https://bostonpost.us/
Pilot News: Your source for Virginia breaking news, sports, business, entertainment, weather and traffic https://pilotnews.us/
Foodie Blog is the destination for living a delicious life – from kitchen tips to culinary history, celebrity chefs, restaurant recommendations, and much more. https://foodieblog.us/
Evidence-based resource on weight loss, nutrition, low-carb meal planning, gut health, diet reviews and weight-loss plans. We offer in-depth reviews on diet supplements, products and programs. https://healthpress.us/
The latest movie and television news, reviews, film trailers, exclusive interviews, and opinions. https://slashnews.us/
The latest news and reviews in the world of tech, automotive, gaming, science, and entertainment. https://millionbyte.us/
The latest food news: celebrity chefs, grocery chains, and fast food plus reviews, rankings, recipes, interviews, and more. https://todaymeal.us/
Orlando News: Your source for Orlando breaking news, sports, business, entertainment, weather and traffic https://orlandonews.us/
Guun specializes in informative deep dives – from history and crime to science and everything strange. https://guun.us/
Marin Breaking News, Sports, Business, Entertainment https://marinnews.us/
I don’t think the title of your article matches the content lol. Just kidding, mainly because I had some doubts after reading the article. https://www.binance.com/cs/join?ref=WTOZ531Y
Can you be more specific about the content of your article? After reading it, I still have some doubts. Hope you can help me. https://accounts.binance.com/pl/register-person?ref=UM6SMJM3
The practical tips shared here are invaluable for anyone interested in this topic.
The author’s expertise shines through, making this post a must-read.
This article truly resonated with me! It’s refreshing to see such insightful content in a sea of noise.
I couldn’t agree more with the points raised here. It’s a breath of fresh air in today’s digital landscape.
This article truly resonated with me! It’s refreshing to see such insightful content in a sea of noise.
Absolutely loved this! Short, sweet, and straight to the point.
Brilliantly crafted. I’m in awe of the writer’s ability to convey so much in so little.
I couldn’t agree more with the points raised here. It’s a breath of fresh air in today’s digital landscape.
Refreshing to see a blog post that respects readers’ time while delivering valuable insights.
Absolutely loved this! Short, sweet, and straight to the point.
I couldn’t agree more with the points raised here. It’s a breath of fresh air in today’s digital landscape.