If you missed my first post, I’m reading as much as I possibly can in 2024 and recording my journey on Goodreads, StoryGraph and here, on my blog. If you missed my January recap, you can find that here. On to February… I read way less this month than I would’ve liked to.  On top of that, I listened to 4 out of my 6 books. Such is life. I’m excited to report that March is already off to a better start.

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How Not to Drown in A Glass of Water by Angie Cruz

I skipped through some parts of this audiobook because it was just.. odd.  When Cara, the main character, is actually speaking, it was delightful to listen to.  When the interludes played, it was painful.  I would love to re-read this book and actually read it, I think I would actually have given it a higher rating.  Overall the story is relatable, tugs at the heart strings and if you read Dominicana, your heart will swell.

Educated by Tara Westover

What a fabulous listen.  This is another one I want to read again and actually read instead of listen.  Upon completion, I was in awe of the bravery and grit that Tara has in even writing this book.  It takes gumption to release the cobwebs of your family.  I commend her for shining a light on her trauma and working through the complications of indoctrination and how easily a power complex/pride can destroy a family.

The Second Mrs. Astor by Shana Abé

I have not read a historical fiction book in ages and I won’t lie, I struggled to finish this book.  The storytelling was beautiful but knowing what was going to happen, before it happened, was a little too much for me in this case.  If you love historical fiction, I’d recommend giving this one a read.

Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens

I know I’m behind on this one.  I even watched the movie a few years ago.  For that reason, I knew a bit of what was going to happen, but I had forgotten a lot of the plot line until I started reading.  As far as the story itself goes, my heart is still crying.  The writing is impeccable and I would shelve it with “To Kill a Mockingbird”.  I would especially recommend listening to this book as the narrator, Cassandra Campbell, did a fabulous job of capturing the essence of all the characters.

The Bodyguard by Katherine Center

This fun rom-com was a quick read, a little ridiculous and I found myself wanting more of Katherine Center.  This was a classic grumpy sunshine trope and I found myself falling in love as the characters themselves fell.  This was a closed-door romance and surprisingly clean.  The only reason I gave this 3 stars, instead of 4 or 5; the ending.  I felt that it was rushed and I was not thrilled with the twist.  It shocked me at first and then I rolled my eyes.  I also did not love all of the characters, I felt like they were a little stereotypical, overly irritating and needed a little bit more development.  That being said, the dialogue and emotions are mainly focused on Jack and Hannah, so I can see why she didn’t spend more time on the other characters.

In Five Years by Rebecca Serle

I am a sucker for any book, especially a romance, set in New York City.  This go around, I totally chose this book by its cover.  This was a fast listen and based on the book page count, a quick read.  What I loved?  The character development, dialogue and realistic aspects of relationships.  What I didn’t love?  The time-travel twist and the rush from year 1 to 5.  I get that it’s the point behind the book and how living her life gets her to the same place, regardless of her intention, but it was a bit cringy to me.  That being said, I loved most of the story and still gave it 4 stars.