Recent Reads #2

So, reading has been interesting recently, I've just been in this massive reading slump, and even when I do read I haven't really thought about what I'm reading I guess - which isn't very useful when you're attempting to run a book blog. However, I thought I would give you a little update on what I have managed to read.

1. How To Stop Time by Matt Haig

So I think I went about reading Matt Haig in the wrong way. I made the awful mistake of reading 'The Humans' first, which by the way if you haven't read then go buy a copy now and sit down for a wild, emotional ride because it is one of the best things I've ever read. Now, the problem with 'The Humans' though, is I'm not sure if any other Matt Haig book will live up to it now; because this wasn't a bad book by any means nor did I dislike reading it, but I couldn't help but be disappointed because it's just not as good. I wanted it to be as good, but unfortunately it's not. The concept for this book is intriguing, and I personally like the way Haig dealt with the time travel element by jumping from time to time in the book (which I understand others might not). I also enjoyed reading about how the protagonist, Tom's, personas and thoughts had changed over time. However, none of it blew me away - it was just a nice read. And there's nothing wrong with a nice read, but when you've read perhaps the author's best book and then follow it up with their nice book, it can be a little underwhelming. I understand this isn't really a review in any sense and perhaps has left you more confused about this book. but I myself am confused about this book too.

2. The A to Z of You and Me by James Hannah

This turned out to be quite a surprising read to me. I was a bit apprehensive about reading this as it is so rare that terminal illnesses are covered well in novels, but I felt like James Hannah portrayed the brutality of death and the fear of a wasted life in an excellent way. The story follows Ivo, who is restricted to a bed in a hospice as he waits for his death. A nurse, sensing his emotional pain and struggles with coping with the reality of what is happening to him gives him the A to Z game. Ivo then goes on to name a part of the body that begins with each letter and attaches a memory to it - which was a very emotional way to read about Ivo and his life, and what he believed to be squandered opportunities. It was a wonderful story about the fragility of life and humans, and how we so easily fall into addictions and traps in life that we shouldn't, and how heartbreaking it can be for not only the people around us but also for ourselves. I think reading this you might not like Ivo, but we can all understand him.

3. The Crane Wife by Patrick Ness

I'm not sure if anyone else feels this way about Patrick Ness, I think he is a wonderful storyteller and writer - BUT he either gets it right or he just misses it; and this book was a miss for me. I didn't dislike it, but I didn't really enjoy reading it. I think that whilst the book is a wonderful idea, and the use of language is beautiful, at times it felt very pretentious and is if he had sacrificed some plot to find and explore a deeper meaning. Whilst I love that Ness stepped outside his usual writing style and explored a different genre, and that should be celebrated, I can't say that the attempt was completely successful - and that's okay, it was a good effort. However, I would recommend his Chaos Walking trilogy and any of his YA novels over this.

4. The Muse of Nightmares by Laini Taylor

I just love it. This is probably my favourite duology ever, and the second book exceeded all of my expectations. I think the reason why it's so good is because of Laini Taylor, she's just an extraordinary storyteller, and that really shines through in this novel. She knows how to craft sentences in a way that leave you fixed and desperate for more, and she creates such diverse and notable characters that consume you. Lazlo also continues to be an utter delight in this book, as does most of the other characters we were previously introduced, and the one we are introduced to in this sequel are no less fascinating and bring so much to the story. I must admit, I was slightly concerned with how many questions were left unanswered for me in Strange The Dreamer, but now I feel like a fool for ever having doubted Laini, the ending is stunning and everything I wondered about was answered in such a way that nothing was ever too overwhelming or seeming far-fetched.  Laini has written another masterpiece and I am so sad this story is over because I enjoyed every second reading it.

5. Thunderhead by Neil Schusterman

I remember reading this book and having to have a moment to put it down and just go 'what the fuck', because this book exceeded every expectation I had.  Unlike 'Scythe', 'Thunderhead' truly allows the reader to explore the Scythe world and brings in a new perspective of politics and division - that almost seemed like an echo of today's political climate. It also allows us to get to know the Thunderhead better and the way it operates society - which was really interesting and I kinda like the Thunderhead. Also, it was really great to see how Citra and Rowan both get their own storylines within this book and grew into two completely different types of people, but I love them both!! Also, if you are reading or have read this I want you to message me about the ending because I need someone to talk to!!! Again, bravo to Neil Schusterman as he continues to world-build splendidly whilst creating fantastic characters.