The start of each new year always gets me excited about books. I often write a list of what books I am planning on reading in the coming months, but this time I’m sharing a combination of some book suggestions of novels I’ve already finished and LOVED, along with a few books that are on my literal or electronic bookshelves.
January was an amazing month in literature. Some fantastic books were published and there’s no denying that 2018 is going to be a great reading year.
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5 Books You Should Be Reading Right Now
The Promise Between Us, Barbara Claypole White
I devoured this book. I read it in 24 hours. Barbara Claypole White crafts amazing characters and weaves aspects of their mental health into how we get to know them. This book is no exception.
In The Promise Between Us we meet Katie Mack, a mom who has been estranged from her daughter since her early days. Intrusive thoughts and irrational fear left Katie terrified that she might do something to hurt her baby, Maisie. But there’s so much Katie and Maisie’s father don’t know or understand. This leads to the permanent distance between them – until Katie accidentally meets her daughter and notices some unsettling things. Will she be able to help? Will Maisie’s dad allow her to? The family dynamic in this book leaves nothing untouched. It’s truly an incredible read. I have a full review over on my blog, if you’re interested!
Between Me and You, Allison Winn Scotch
Between Me and You was a wonderful read. The relationship and varying perspectives from our two main characters left me wanting more. But Winn Scotch is no stranger to great writing. Many of her novels are some of my favorite reads. The story of Ben and Tatum is intense, emotional, frustrating and real. The realities of married life aren’t always entertaining.
When reading about the relationship of a married couple experiencing problems might be thought to be puzzling, but part of what this book did for me is show me how fictional characters aren’t always happy-go-lucky, either. It showed me some bits of reality in fiction. And I enjoyed each page of it.
I have truly loved the first two books in this series by Jojo Moyes. As heartbreaking as it was, Me Before You is one of my favorite books. And I can’t wait to see what happens next for Louisa Clark. It may seem as though there isn’t much more this young woman can experience, but Moyes has sent Clark to New York, and that being my favorite city in the world to me there’s no better place for her to be!
The Woman in the Window, A.J. Finn
I’m a big fan of psychological thrillers, they’re so much fun to read and keep me on my feet. Reviews for The Woman in the Window are mixed, but I think that it’s worth a look. Anna Fox is a bit of a recluse. She never leaves her home and observes as much of the outside world as she can from her window. While she enjoys watching the new family on the block, The Russells, as a bit of entertainment, her world gets thrown for a loop when she sees something she shouldn’t. Finn’s debut novel is extremely promising, and I look forward to seeing more from him.
The Great Alone, Kristin Hannah
I am a big fan of Kristin Hannah’s work, and though I haven’t yet read this book I find that Hannah writes characters in a way that sticks with you. Characters that you are unable to shake. I think that this story of Ernt Albright, a former prisoner of war who returns home to his family after his experiences will be no exception.
I especially love that we’ll be meeting his daughter, Leni, and her mom, Cora, and learning how his mental health impacts them as a family.
Find out more about what I’m reading over on my website, Good Girl Gone Redneck. I’d love to chat books with you there.
Looking for more book suggestions? Look at these books for travelers.
Beth Havey
Thursday 22nd of February 2018
I have a copy of the GREAT ALONE, free from GOODREADS--but haven't started it yet. I loved Barbara's latest: The Promise Between Us. Thanks for mentioning the other choices.
Rena
Thursday 22nd of February 2018
I just finished the Great Alone and it is a book that will stick with you forever. I've always dreamed of going to live in Alaska and Hannah shows what real life would be like. It was such a touching story. I found some great new books to add to my ereader! Thanks!
barbara claypole white
Wednesday 21st of February 2018
Thank you, thank you! Honored to see Katie and Maisie on this list.
Paula Kiger
Wednesday 21st of February 2018
OOH added a couple to my Audible wish list! Have you read The Girl With Seven Names? So so so so good (and chilling). It's about North Korea (among other things).