One summer, three books down (almost)
The end of summer always brings a feeling of reminiscence and nostalgia. For me, at least, it is a time to mourn the end of free time while also preparing for the excitement and energy that comes with a brand-new semester.
Now, with the beginning of autumn and the busy schedule to come, I’ve decided to celebrate the final days of summer by looking back on some of the different things I’ve read.
“The House in the Pines” by Ana Reyes: this was a fun little read from Reese Witherspoon’s Book Club. The reader follows Maya, a traumatized ex-girlfriend of Frank, as she discovers the truth of their relationship and how it relates to the death of her best friend, Aubrey.
I just so happened to find this book in the deep recesses of my Audible library, and I have no clue where it came from. Nevertheless, it was a decently good read – it is hard to write a boring mystery, but it is even harder to land the reveal, which is where Reyes ultimately falters.
The ending of the book makes no sense but not in an infuriating way. From the very beginning, the writing indicates this book will not be something to be truly invested in, so there were no complaints from me once I finished it. I don’t remember thinking much more than, “Well, that was that. Onto the next book.” Take that how you will.
“The Bell Jar” by Sylvia Plath: I am a lover of almost all of Plath’s poetry, so I thought it was about time to get started on the only novel she published in her lifetime.
It tells the story of Esther, an obvious stand-in for Plath, as she struggles with her mental health and subsequent stay in a mental hospital in the 1950s. I have a lot to say about it, so I would like to wait to discuss it in more detail in one of my later reviews.
However, for those who are curious, my general thoughts are this: though it is not as striking or forceful as Plath’s poetry, “The Bell Jar” is delightfully sardonic and depressing in a manner that somehow doesn’t leave the reader feeling as though all the hope has been sucked from life. Considering it is autobiographical, that is quite a feat, especially for those who know the nature of Plath’s life and death.
“A Court of Thorns and Roses” (ACOTAR) by Sarah J. Maas: Though this is a book I am currently reading, I have already decided to make it my new guilty pleasure.
The book follows Feyre, who is forced to live with the high fae Tamlin after killing another faerie. Having borrowed this book from a friend, there were several moments where I had to stop reading to compose my thoughts and send a quick text of, “Is this really happening?”
Though not what I would call a masterpiece, ACOTAR is definitely a fun, wild and spicy ride, so be warned! Honestly, I would compare it to Twilight, not in quality but in pure fantastical romance and controversy – there are many people who hate this book for similar reasons, but I just don’t have the heart to do so. Everyone has their own version of fun, and I found so much genuine joy in reading this book that I plan on finishing the series and dedicating a full review to it.
For me, this summer was about making the time to catch up on some books I’ve always wanted to read. Having done so, I can say that I have quite a few more reviews waiting to be written. Nevertheless, it is always nice to remember that, even though summer may come to an end, my TBR list never will.
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