Cherished Belonging: The Healing Power of Love in Divided Times

Cherished Belonging: The Healing Power of Love in Divided Times by Father Gregory Boyle At first I worried this book might be a little more religious than what I was comfortable with. But the book quickly settled into Fr. Boyle's signature homie anecdotes showing warmhearted love and affection for all humans. This book touched on some recent political events and characters, but really stuck to the theme that everyone must belong to us and we must belong to them. Just like with his other books, there were parts that brought me to tears and parts that made me laugh. It felt like a balm to read during this election season. “People change when they are cherished.” Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.

Death Comes at Christmas by multiple authors

Death Comes at Christmas (short story collection, multiple authors, publication date 10/28/24) This was a fun mix of holiday themed murder mysteries. I was not familiar with most of the authors so it was also a great opportunity to sample their work. Some leaned a bit more toward the cozy mystery side while several had dark twists. The stories also provided quite a few laughs along the way. I do not like horror or anything that leans too much into thriller/suspense or really dark, and these stories walked right up to that line but didn't cross it for me. (I even used this as bedtime reading)! I enjoyed this collection and finished it in a few days. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.

Holiday Hideaway by Mary Kay Andrews

Holiday Hideaway by Mary Kay Andrews ⭐⭐⭐⭐ This was a sweet short story - a typical book plot but significantly condensed. Initially I found the female main character a bit annoying and highly implausible, but once the story progressed and the two main characters started interacting it was much more enjoyable. No shocking twists or surprises here, but a cozy and cute story with a tidy ending!

Meditations for Mortals Oliver Burkeman

Meditations for Mortals Oliver Burkeman (NetGalley ARC pub date 10/8) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I read this on and off, aiming at first for one chapter a day as suggested but then missing chunks and reading chunks. I am considering purchasing a hard copy as there are sections I’d like to underline or annotate. Despite it being based on some previously published newsletters (to which I subscribe), it was well put together and felt fresh and relevant. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the advance review copy.

The Life Impossible by Matt Haig

The Life Impossible by Matt Haig ⭐⭐⭐⭐ This started off fine, then got weirder and weirder. I considered bailing but stuck through a sagging middle and enjoyed the last third which felt more signature Haig. Four stars rounded up since it felt so uneven.

How to Read a Book by Monica Wood

How to Read a Book by Monica Wood ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ This took me a little to settle into but I really enjoyed it and found it a good comfort read. I found myself revisiting the characters in my mind and may consider picking up some of the books that are referenced in the novel. I'll also look into the author's other works.

The Wedding People by Alison Espach

The Wedding People by Alison Espach ⭐⭐⭐⭐ I thought this would be light and funny, but a summary did say it had a dark premise and is grim in parts. At 14% in, I wasn't sure I wanted to keep reading. I gave it one more try and finished it. I think the author lays it on too thick at the start but then smooths it out. I felt frustrated by the caricature-like nature of some of the characters and it felt longer in places than needed, but overall appreciated how it came together. I enjoyed what it was saying about being human and how many of us share the same fears and doubts.