The holiday season is just around the corner, and if you love reading as much as I do, books are going to be on your gift list. Here are my ratings of the six books I read this semester. Hopefully, one of them appeals to you as a gift to give or a gift you want to receive!
- The Paris Apartment by Lucy Foley: 7/10
Summary: Jess arrives at her brother’s glamorous Paris apartment expecting to be greeted with open arms, only to realize her brother is nowhere to be found. Jess must now uncover the mysteries of the residents that roam the halls of the apartment building and how they relate to her brother’s disappearance.
This mystery takes on the perspective of each apartment resident chapter by chapter. While I thoroughly enjoyed this read, I had to dock some points for its predictability. But, I would recommend this to anyone who loves a mystery!
- Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs: 7/10
This book was a fantastical and mysterious story detailing a peculiar home for young children with very peculiar abilities. The protagonist, Jacob Portman, travels to the fictional island of Carinholm, Wales, in hopes of learning more about his grandfather who had lived in an orphanage on this very island during World War II.
While I really enjoyed this book, it was the first of a long series I am not quite ready to commit to, hence the lower rating. One aspect of this read that exceeded my expectations was the unique addition of real vintage photographs the author had found in flea markets over the years and then curated his story around.
- Winterwood by Shea Ernshaw: 8/10
This read was part mystery, part romance and part witchy ghost story. It was beautifully atmospheric, and I felt like I was a side character experiencing the story alongside Nora Walker (the protagonist) the entire time. I was pleasantly surprised with this book, as I grabbed it without ever having heard of it, and it was quite the opposite of disappointing.
I would definitely recommend this book with the snowy season approaching — it would be perfect to read cuddled up next to a fire with a warm drink in hand.
- Then She Was Gone by Lisa Jewel: 9/10
Summary: 10 years after her daughter’s mysterious disappearance, Laurel Mack begins a new relationship with a man whose own daughter looks identical to the one she’s lost, unveiling lingering questions from the past: What really happened to Ellie Mack?
I could not put down this suspenseful thriller! As you read, the mystery begins to unravel right before your eyes; this is another perfect read for a mystery lover.
- In Five Years by Rebecca Serle: 7.5/10
Summary: This book follows the life of Dannie Kohan, a successful lawyer who has landed the job and the man of her dreams. The night of her engagement, Dannie has the most vivid dream depicting her life five years in the future, living in a different apartment with a different man. Dannie then becomes determined to ensure this dream NEVER becomes reality.
WARNING: This book is so sad! I wish someone had warned me before I started, so I could have at least had tissues within reach.
This was a quick read and a really good story, and while I would recommend it I must reiterate that it is very, very sad.
- Twilight by Stephanie Meyer: 10/10
Last but not least, Twilight. I’m not going to give a synopsis of this book, as I assume most have a general idea of the plot: a girl, a vampire boyfriend and a werewolf friend.
I have only read the first book so far and I’m hooked. I’ve already started New Moon, and plan to have read the entire series by the end of winter break. I could not recommend it enough for those who love romance and thrillers!
Well, that’s the end of my list! Hopefully, one of these books has sparked your interest. If you are stuck with what to gift someone this holiday season, never forget how a book might just be perfect. I, for one, would love to be gifted one.
Current TBR (to be read): The Secret History, Rock Paper Scissors, If We Were Villains