Fencing with the King: A Novel
by Diana Abu-Jaber
Lost in history (1/2/2022)
I enjoyed the characters in this book, but often times the historical elements took me away from the story. I am an avid historical fiction reader because I love to learn about other cultures, but the way it would interrupt the story for the history was hard to follow and I found myself wanting to scan through a lot of those moments which isn't like me at all. I like the author's flow, just wish that it hadn't had the lingering feeling.
The Sunset Route: Freight Trains, Forgiveness, and Freedom on the Rails in the American West
by Carrot Quinn
The most spirited of tales… (8/1/2021)
I loved this book!
It had such heart. I feel like I was there with Carrot the whole time. Her words were so resonate and raw and I truly admire that kind of bravery when someone chooses to write a memoir. It isn't easy to lay yourself bare like that. The emotional hangover for her must be real. I actually think the memoir genre can be my favorite or least favorite genre depending on how honest it is. I have read stories where the author was clearly afraid of how they would come across and it shows in their writing. Not this girl. I felt the truth in it, the survival, and revival of it. Couldn't recommend it more!