Book reviews aren’t new to this blog but I certainly haven’t posted one in a while. I’m an avid reader and often times get asked what my favourite books have been, which I find difficult to answer because not everyone has the same tastes! So, in fairness to all the authors I have read, I wanted to provide you with my quick reviews for all the books I read in December and you can make your own decisions.
Check out this video if you want the condensed version. For a more in-depth book review, keep reading…
@myhouseofzing
BENEFITS OF READING
I had a follower once comment, “I wish I had the time to read!”. To be honest, this kind of rattled me because it sounded like she was saying that I had all this extra time to just sit and read. I know it’s probably not what she intended but it made me think about why this activity is so important to me.
Books Expand Your World View
I like to think that books can provide you with a perspective that you haven’t considered before. I have never visited Italy, but I’ve learned about the country through books. I’m not particularity daring but I’ve read books about characters who were fearless. I’ve experienced different cultures, explored new countries and learned new things, all through reading.
Book Reviews Provide Guidance
It wasn’t long ago that I found myself in a reading rut because I was reading the same type of story. I’m quite fond of romance novels and love “love” so I tend to gravitate to this genre. But, I’ve been getting bored and my goal is to expand my reading list to different genres. Looking at what other people had to say about a particular book peaked my interest and has led me to try different types of books. It’s my turn to give back!
Books Are Good For Your Mental Health
Life can be monotonous at times. Sometimes, it’s nice to be transported to someone else’s life. I find reading to be relaxing. Learning new things is invigorating. I find joy in the act of reading and ultimately, that improves my mood. Reading can be a wonderful escape.
Books are Self-Care
There are so many benefits to reading, which include reducing stress, feeling joy, improved memory, better sleep, expands vocabulary and provides relaxation. A 2009 study conducted by the University of Sussex found that reading for as little as six minutes a day can reduce stress levels by as much as 68% and can provide stress relief more quickly than listening to music, drinking tea/coffee and even going for a walk!
BOOK REVIEWS
Here are the book reviews for my December reads:
Just Haven’t Met you Yet by Sophie Cousens
Just Haven’t Met you Yet by Sophie Cousens was an entertaining read! This is the story of a women who’s luggage gets switched with a handsome man she bumps into at the airport. In her search for this “perfect man” she finds what she really needs, which is not what she originally thought or expected. There were so many levels to the story and the characters really stuck with me. Excellent writing and great flow, this book will keep you turning the pages.
Nightwolf by Karina Halle
I’m a huge fan of this author. Nightwolf by Karina Halle is not her best book but it certainly shouldn’t be overlooked. Here we have a human-vampire love story with some serious steam built in. Themes of loss and grief are woven throughout, making this a story you won’t expect and definitely won’t forget. The author herself is currently dealing with grief and through this book, you can feel her journey.
Christmas in Connecticut by Jasinda Wilder
Although Christmas in Connecticut by Jasinda Wilder is centred around Christmas time, it’s a great read any time of year. A single dad and his daughter’s teacher may seem like a typical theme but the relationship is a slow build that will make you strongly invested in these characters. It’s a heart-warming read with a strong female character, which I always appreciate.
Kiss and Don’t Tell by Meghan Quinn
I’m not a fan of sport-themed romances so Kiss and Don’t Tell by Meghan Quinn was a no-go for me. I DNF’d at 65% just out of boredom. But, I normally love this author and if you do like these types of themes, you may enjoy this book. A girl stuck in a snow storm with a cabin full of hockey players isn’t a bad premise after all!
Come Again by Lauren Blakely
If you’re a fan of romance, this author is sure to please. Come Again by Lauren Blakely is an enemy to lovers story with plenty of wit and scorching scenes. Don’t let the cover fool you, this is a cute, sweet read that starts with a dare and ends with a happily ever after. A typical romance but fun and quick.
I hope you enjoyed this roundup and will be back for more to come…
In the meantime, is there a particular theme you like or a book on your list you think I should check out? Let me know in the comments below.
Happy Reading!
On the romance front, I have enjoyed everything by Ali Hazelwood, especially The Love Hypothesis. Each book has a young woman scientist falling in love.
I agree!! I love that she focuses on women in STEM. I have Love on the Brain as my next TBR book 🙂