What I've been reading lately

You can say that I’ve been busy when it comes to reading these past few months. I’ve read a lot of fiction and non-fiction books since my last book update in August. While I’ll keep the non-fiction personal for the time being, I wanted to share some incredible fictional stories I’ve read that moved me [plus one useful, current-times-appropriate non-fiction].

With the discovery of these apps, I’ve been able to peruse lots of books and authors and found some new ones that have been added to my “favorites” list. I’ve primarily read the said authors these past few months, all while my list is getting filled with more of their books and many other authors I’m eager to discover. So many books to read, so little time (yes, the pile in the photo above represents only a few of the books I am reading/are on my reading list)... But let’s dive into what I’ve read these past few months.

Long Way Gone by Charles Martin.
After reading a few books by this author and loving them, I decided to add more to my reading list, and I’m not sorry I did. His books are deep and intense, and this one does not fall short by any means. A book about the choices we make and their subsequent consequences. A story about the love and patience of a father for his son. A lost love between a man and a woman that finds its way back. A story about music that touches the soul. A truly moving (and you’ll hear me say that word a lot about this author’s books) story, one that makes you ponder. Recommend.

The Mountain Between Us by Charles Martin.
I’ve had the movie based on this book saved in “My Stuff” on Hulu forever, however, I’ve been avoiding it thinking it might be too depressing. I still haven’t watched it, but I somewhat unintentionally read the book. And even though it is not cheerful by any means, it’s deep, beautiful, and with an ending, I didn’t fully see coming. This book is a great read about survival and true love. Recommend.

Chasing Fireflies by Charles Martin.
Another touching, and in places infuriating story involving child abuse and the main character’s quest to discover who he truly is. One about being undeservingly shunned by a Southern society, a novel that keeps you on your toes switching between the past and present, and revealing shocking truths. A story about love that will shake you. Recommend.
The Water Keeper by Charles Martin.
A book that moved me deeply, and one that led to my discovery of this author. A book about human trafficking, heartache, forgiveness, redemption, action, and love — it truly has it all. Highly recommend.
The Letter Keeper by Charles Martin.
Part two of A Murphy Shepherd Novel (The Water Keeper being part one), I found this book even more riveting than the first. It started a bit slow, and almost lost me, however, once it picked up, I wasn’t able to put it down! As usual, the book includes all the things mentioned above, at a whole new level. Enthralling, that’s how I would describe it once you get past the slow bit. Highly recommend.
The Other Einstein by Marie Benedict.
Much has been written and spoken about Albert Einstein, however, history has mostly overlooked the other Einstein — his wife, Mileva. This novel is based on historical finds from letters and other documents mentioning her, as well as the author’s imagination, filling the rest. The result is a story that brings light onto an illustrious mind that was silenced by her husband’s abusive behavior, as well as the good old sexism women have been subjected to for centuries. A bit slow but worth reading -- recommend.
The Only Woman in the Room by Marie Benedict.
This novel depicts the life of the famous Hollywood actress Hedy Lamarr. The world mostly remembers her for her beauty. However, there’s a lot more to know about her, including the fact that she’s the one to give thanks to for technologies we use these days, including cellphones. This is another story illustrating how sexism has held women (and society, frankly) back for centuries. Recommend.
Carnegie’s Maid by Marie Benedict.
The story of a clever young woman who possibly, is the reason behind America’s philanthropist, Andrew Carnegie, creating a legacy that would live forever. A historical fiction, this story is about social injustice, determination, romance, and personal sacrifice. Recommend.
Little Secrets by Jennifer Hillier.
People have been raving about this book on social media but it left me a bit cold. Don’t get me wrong, it’s a captivating book about tragedy, the unraveling of one’s life as a result of it, and shocking twists. I, however, wasn’t a fan of the characters in this book, as well as their actions, which reduced my enjoyment of it. Based on reviews, I think it’s worth reading.
Emotional Intelligence by Gill Hasson.
2021 was a challenging year overall, that brought an onset of different feelings and emotions, many of them not being of the good variety. To manage those emotions, I picked up this book, which is eye-opening in some areas, as is an easy introduction into the “science” of emotional intelligence. Recommend if you’re looking into getting a better hold of your emotions, as well.