off the shelf: latest reads, a book binge

Mini Review time… for more detail, watch the video 🙂

Campbell’s Redemption by Sharon Cullen (via NetGalley)

Highland romance featuring a widow and a misunderstood laird. I liked that it was original in its take on life and romance after loss. Post-Culloden setting (totally missed that in the video, what was I thinking?!). Perfect for Outlander fans looking for a bit of fluff between seasons (and tomes).

The Joy of Less: A Minimalist Guide to Declutter, Organize, and Simplify  by Francine Jay (via LibraryThing Early Reviewers)

Easy to read manual on everyday minimalism. Not as intense as KonMari and very approachable if you’re just looking for an intro to minimalism as a lifestyle.

The gods lie. by Kaori Ozaki

Japanese light novel… not light at all. Reminds me of Ian McEwan’s The Cement Garden. Very dark and melancholy with a touch of hope.

A Girl on the Shore by Inio Asano

Another light novel… reminds me of Bertolucci’s The Dreamers. Teens in very adult situations. Rated 18+ and well-earned.

Crooked Kingdom by Leigh Bardugo

The Dregs at their finest. I loved the intricate plots and the “just when you think all is lost” feeling of it.

After You by Jojo Moyes

Not my usual cup of tea, but I’ve really fallen for Jojo Moyes’ writing, and this one did not disappoint.

off the shelf: The Queen of Blood by Sarah Beth Durst

I was a little lax on posting this weekend, but I did record two videos 🙂

This time, I’ve been reading and loving Sarah Beth Durst’s The Queen of Blood, first in the new Queens of Renthia series, an adult epic fantasy that takes place in a world where nature is deadly and only those who are chosen to be queen can keep it in check.

This review is based on an ARC that I picked up at ALA. The book is available for pre-order and will be published on September 20, 2016.

preorder: https://amzn.com/0062413341

Don’t miss Friday’s video, the first in my minimalism (my way) series.