February 2020 Novel Ideas: 23 Quick Book Reviews
We read a ton of books this month between the two of us. We were both trying to find the perfect book for February’s Reading Challenge. After a few false starts, I settled on re-reading one of my all-time favorites. Meanwhile, Jackie’s reading challenge pick ended up making it onto the list of her all-time favorite reads! We also tackled quite a few new and upcoming releases to help you choose what to read, and what to pass on. Enjoy the February 2020 Novel Ideas round-up!
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Kirsten’s Stack
21 Truths about Love by Matthew Dicks
Thanks to St. Martin’s Press for my advanced copy. All opinions are my own. This clever book is unlike any I’ve ever read before. The entire book is comprised of lists written by Daniel. Daniel records important things like his finances and the state of his marriage in list format, as well as silly things like underrated songs and ways to get into fights on Christmas Day. It’s a great one-sitting read. 4 stars.
You are Not Alone by Greer Hendricks and Sarah Pekkan
Thanks to St. Martin’s Press for my advanced copy. All opinions are my own. I’ve been a long time fan of this duo’s thrillers, but this one missed the mark. While the story was unique (no spoilers), it was also dull. I wasn’t really invested in it. There was maybe one twist that caught me off guard, but I expect more from this duo. Given my love for their work, this story didn’t hold up. 3 stars.
The Farm by Joanne Ramos
This contemporary fiction story had been on my TBR for a long time now. When my hold came through from the library, I dove right into this tale of surrogacy and modern parenting. The story isn’t based on a real place but it easily could be. The ethical questions that came up in this book would make for an interesting book club discussion. 4 stars.
Jackie’s Stack
When you see me by Lisa Gardner
I don’t know how I have never read a book by Lisa Gardner before! I must have been hiding somewhere. Even though this book has three characters from previous novels come together, I did not have a problem getting to know each of them. The story is a fast-moving and twisted thrill ride that follows Flora Dane, Detective D.D. Warren, and FBI agent Kimberly Quincy. While trying to find more information on the serial killer and rapist Jacob Ness, the three women find themselves in the hills of Georgia where graves are being discovered and bodies are piling up. Who can they trust in this small town? I couldn’t put this book down because I needed to see what happened next. There is no good place to stop because the story is non-stop action. Thank you to Netgalley for my copy of this book. What a great read. 4 stars.
The Prized Girl by Amy K. Green
When a small town is rocked by the murder of Jenny, a 13-year-old former pageant queen, her older sister is determined to find out who did it. The police are set on who is guilty but Virginia isn’t convinced. The Prized Girl is a mystery/thriller that is told from Virginia and Jenny’s POV. This engaging book is easy to get into and fun to read. The ending isn’t a complete surprise and the story is a little bit predictable but, it was easy to read and overall, quite enjoyable. I’d recommend this one to those looking for a mystery to bring on their next vacation. 3.5 stars
When we were Vikings by Andrew David McDonald
I had high hopes for this book and I am still not sure how I feel. It was an interesting story with some unique characters but they were not completely believable. Zelda is a 21-year-old Viking enthusiast who also has Fetal Alcohol Syndrome. She lives with her brother Gert and they must live by basic rules to make Zelda comfortable. I think this story had potential but did not hit the mark for me. 3.5 stars
