To Read or Not to Read…

Anyone who knows me…knows I love to read.  I always have books around that are waiting to be read or re-read (if they are favorites). I read while having my morning coffee while also “gently” reminding my family to get up, get dressed, eat and grab everything on their way out the door. I read during commercials or when my husband has control over the remote. I read while waiting for my children after school or during their other activities. And of course I read before I go to bed…a good book means not much sleep but great dreams…a not-so-good book means I am out after one chapter!

Needless to say, I have a need to read…all this reading leads me to constantly be on the lookout for new authors and reading material. I will sit down and attempt anything that seems remotely interesting and will toss a book back if it doesn’t engage me – halfway through is usually my breaking point – although if I make it that far, I generally will plow through to the end.

I place more value in recommendations from friends than celebrities, which is one of the reasons I keep lists of the books I have read with notes of their worthiness, so that I can help a non-reader fall in love with a great book! There is nothing worse than wasting your time on a boring book. Sharing my love of books with my friends and family is something I have been doing for years and passing on the name of a new and under-publicized author is my small way of helping the underdog. 

So join me as I explore new and old authors and share my thoughts on what to or not to read! 

This fall, if you didn’t get your fill of ghosts and witches leading up to Halloween, I’d like to suggest some great spooky books you won’t be able to put down. Most people would pick up a Steven King book when they want a good chiller…but why not try someone new?

If you’re in the mood for a ghost story try Ruined by Paula Morris. While it is geared toward a younger audience, you shouldn’t let that stop you from picking up this little gem. Set in historic New Orleans, you join Rebecca as she adjusts to her new life (never easy as a teen) and her relationship with resident ghost Lisette. In uncovering the mystery surrounding Lisette’s death, Rebecca explores her new hometown while learning important lessons about herself.

Another unusual story dealing with the undead is Melissa Marr’s recent release, Graveminder. This first foray into adult novels is sure to bring her even more fans! Known for her young adult Wicked Lovely series, she makes this transition seamlessly. In her newest book you are introduced to Rebekkah and Byron. Both are dealing with the recent loss of loved ones and the changes in their lives brought on by these deaths. Add in the fact that the dead aren’t staying dead and you will be enthralled by the adventure these two set out on to save their town. While currently a lone book, I know I am hoping for a second installment!

 A magical series that is not to be missed is Beautiful Creatures, Beautiful Darkness and the most recent, Beautiful Chaos by Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl. These two authors take you to the seemingly very “normal” southern town of Gatlin. Central character Ethan draws you into his mortal world within the first few sentences of the book. He has spent years yearning to get out of his small town and explore a world he has only learned about in books, until the day he first sees Lena and everything he ever knew is turned upside down. Together they will take you on a mystical dark and dangerous journey as they learn what’s truely important in life. This is a series you will not be able to put down!

Finally, for those who enjoy a good witch story, you can’t ask for a better read than The Physick Book of Deliverance Dane, by Katherine Howe. In this breakout novel, graduate student Connie follows clues that she discovers as she deals with her abandoned family home. Along the way she unravels the mystery of a woman living during the Salem Witch trials and the horrors that gripped our country during that time. This is a haunting story that will wrap around you and hold you until the very last page.  You will not regret picking up this novel.

 I hope you enjoy this crisp fall season curled up by a fire, with a glass of wine and a great book!  I can’t wait to hear what you think of them!

What are your favorite books for fall reading? Share them in the comments!