Blood Meridian or the Evening Redness in the West by Cormac McCarthy

For this review, I get into my third Cormac McCarthy book, Blood Meridian or the Evening Redness in the West. A difficult, dense, and frankly brutal book that is downright fantastic from start to finish. It’s a tough one in both the plot and how it's presented, but if you take the time to really get into it and think, it’s a great read to pick up.

Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen

"Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen is a captivating historical fiction novel set in the 1930s circus world, depicting themes of friendship, romance, grief, and mental health. The book intricately weaves a gripping narrative with compelling characters, evoking both heartwarming and heartbreaking moments. Despite initial skepticism, the novel's depth and realism earn it a solid 9/10 rating."

The Right Kind of Fool by Sarah Loudin Thomas

"The Right Kind of Fool" by Sarah Loudin Thomas is a character-centered historical fiction mystery set in 1934. The story revolves around Loyal, a 13-year-old deaf boy who discovers a body and is drawn into a mystery. Despite its slower pace, the book focuses on Loyal's personal growth, family dynamics, and the power of friendship, receiving a 7.5/10 rating. The novel, while tagged as Christian Fiction, subtly incorporates its religious theme and offers a softer, slower-paced, but engaging read.

Bright Young Women by Jessica Knoll

"Bright Young Women" by Jessica Knoll is a compelling thriller set in the late 1970s, featuring women targeted by a remorseless man. The book highlights the struggles of the victims and the injustices they face in a male-dominated society. With a strong plot and powerful characters, the narrative offers both heartbreak and upliftment, shedding light on the enduring challenges women face.

In the Garden of Spite by Camilla Bruce

This book review discusses "In the Garden of Spite" by Camilla Bruce, a historical fiction thriller based on the life of early 1900s serial killer Belle Gunness. In spite of some slow-paced sections, the reviewer appreciates the characterization and recommends this book for fans of character-driven historical fiction.

Daisy Jones & the Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid

The reviewer discusses Taylor Jenkins Reid's book "Daisy Jones & the Six" with conflicting feelings. They appreciate the unique format but are irritated by the unresolved tension between characters, Daisy and Billy. They label the book as authentic yet lacking excitement.