As a junior in college, reading is a way for me to escape the reality of homework, projects, and studying. I’ve read many books over the years, mainly fictional, and thought I’d share a few that I found entertaining and interesting!
- Demian
Written by Herman Hesse, Demian takes the reader on a journey through the life of Emil Sinclair, a young boy living through a time of war. Emil lives a pretty good life – he has a family, a house, and food – but this sheltered life will soon shatter as he emerges into adulthood. As Emil grows older he realizes that there are two worlds, one of light and one of darkness. With Max Demian, a childhood friend, who acts as a bridge between these two worlds, Emil learns that the world is actually a shade of gray. Featuring morality, love, and loss, this book is a must-read for a college student because it shows the struggle of balancing the life we once knew and the new one we’re finding ourselves in. If you’re looking for some guidance, this book might be for you!
- The Bone Shard Daughter
Written by Andrea Stewart, the story begins with the perspective of the main character Lin, the daughter of the emperor. In this world, a type of magic called bone-shard is practiced. The emperor is known for specializing in bone-shard magic and says he uses it to protect his people. Most citizens are against this magic because they must give up pieces of their bones and when a person’s bone is used, they become sick and die, no matter what age they are. We then see the other main character’s perspective, Jovis, who is a runaway boat captain looking for his long-lost wife. While on his adventure, he gets caught up in a rebellion between the emperor and his people. The book goes back and forth between the two perspectives to show the differences between the common folk and royalty. Even though these main characters couldn’t be more different, both face paths that cause them to question everything that they once knew. Filled with adventure, mystery, and a hint of romance, this book will keep your attention for hours!
- The Shadow In The Glass
Written by JJA Harwood, this book is the darker version of the classic story Cinderella. Ella, who is a maid, works in a large mansion that her stepfather owns. It wasn’t always like this though. She once had her own room, dresses, and was even preparing to be a lady in waiting. All of that changed when her stepmother died, causing her stepfather to lose his mind. Life isn’t all bad for Ella though as she gets to sneak into the library at night to read books, a way of comforting herself. One night, she notices a book that has a glow to it and reads it out of curiosity. While reading the book about magic, Ella wishes that the enchanted being was real. Little did she know that this quick thought would change her life forever. Suddenly, almost like magic, Ella’s life turns upside down and everything seems to be falling into place. This doesn’t last long though as weird unexplainable events start occurring. A murder, robbery, unexpected death, and more occur around Ella, but it must be a coincidence, right? If you’re looking for a good psychological thriller, this book will have you guessing at every turn!
- Caraval
Written by Stephanie Garber, this is the first book in the enchanting Caraval series. The story revolves around sisters Scarlett and Tella Dragna who live on an isolated island with their manipulating, evil father. One day news about the once-a-year magic show Caraval reaches the island and Scarlett sees it as a way of escape. She gets her hands on a pair of tickets and leaves in the night with her sister. On their way to Caraval, they’re told rumors of people disappearing or getting injured. The sisters don’t believe it of course because it’s supposed to be an elaborate magic show, just smoke and mirrors. Upon arrival, Tella gets abducted and becomes the prize of Caraval. In order to get her sister back, Scarlett has to navigate her way through the tricks, spells, and enchantment of Caraval, all while trying to figure out who Legend, the Ringmaster of Caraval, is. Get ready to be swept away into a world of magic, sisterhood, and mystery with this story!