The Books I've Read So Far in 2018...

One of my new year resolutions was to read more. I used to be an avid reader, always buying new releases and reading them within a few days. That was up until I started university and I struggled to find the time to juggle between the piles of uni work to get through and having a social life.

So I set myself a challenge to read at least 24 books in 2018. I was determined to stick to my goal and so far I've read 8 books this year!

I've been really enjoying spending my days reading, especially before bed as I've found it has helped me sleep better, easing the stress of the day, and gives me something to look forward to in the evenings.

I really wanted to write about all the books I've recently read, the ones I've really liked, or even disliked, and I might continue to make this a regular feature every few months or so.

So here they are...

Good Me Bad Me by Ali Land 

I was intrigued by the subject matter of this book: fifteen-year old Annie is the daughter of a serial killer. Her mother, the serial killer, has been exposed to the police by Annie, and is awaiting her court case. Annie is now living with a foster family with her name changed to Milly, desperately wanting to fit in with her new family, although she struggles to adjust.

It's a dark, edgy and gritty psychological thriller that delves into the mind of a damaged teenage girl, and makes you question how alike Milly is to her mother throughout.

It's written extremely well, with a unique and well-crafted language used for Milly's thoughts.

I did find the ending a little predictable but overall it was an enjoyable, albeit disturbing, read that I would recommend to anyone who likes psychological thrillers!

The Couple Next Door by Shari Lapena

This book follows the story of the disappearance of a baby while her parents are at a party next door. It was a fast-paced read that did grip me from the start, however I didn't find it to be an incredibly groundbreaking read, with unlikeable characters and a disappointing ending. The writing was a bit sloppy, and lacked any character developed.

That being said, I did enjoy reading it - it was a very fast and easy read with a lot of unexpected twists that kept me gripped throughout.

Then She Was Gone By Lisa Jewell 

I was completely absorbed by this book and couldn't stop reading. The story is about a mother, Laurel, who tries to pierce her life back together since her daughter Ellie's disappearance ten years ago. Throughout the book, Laurel meets some interesting characters that make her question what actually happened to her daughter.

It's a pacy, emotional and heart-wrenching read that gets you sympathising for Laurel and her distressing situation. It's a brilliant mystery, with dark twists and turns that keep you wrapped up until the end.

This was my first book by Lisa Jewell and definitely not my last!

The Tattooist of Auschwitz by Heather Morris 

This is a book with a story that sticks with you after. It's a compelling and moving read based on the true story told from Lale Sokolov's point of view, who was given the job of 'Tatowierer' in Auschwitz. It follows the horrors that occurred in Auschwitz, and Lale's determination to not give up.

It is a powerful, uplifting and informative story that I would recommend anyone to read.

Behind Closed Doors by B A Paris

I absolutely loved this! I heard a lot of great reviews about this book so I decided to give it a go, and I managed to read it from cover to cover in one sitting. It's hard to say much about the story without giving too much away: Jack and Grace appear to have a perfect relationship with a perfect life, but as the title states, what goes on 'behind closed doors' is a different story. It's a very intense and gripping read. The suspense is prevalent from the start and only increases as the story unfolds - it's well worth a read if you enjoy thrillers.

This is definitely one of my favourite out of the books I've read this year and already can't wait to read more from the author!

Friend Request by Laura Marshall 

I was unsure about this at first. All I could think about was the awful horror film with the same title,  but I was pleasantly surprised with how much this gripped me. It taps into the issue of school day bullying antics and highlights how such antics aren't always forgotten in adulthood, and how in fact, revenge can patiently wait for many years after.

It did sometimes feel like the author was dragging out the narrative a bit too much, with some chapters being used as fillers which made me become a bit bored of not knowing what truly happened. That being said, I did find this enjoyable read with many greats twists throughout.

The Innocent Wife by Amy Lloyd 

I picked this up after seeing it in the latest thriller releases and was instantly drawn in by the story: a lonely teacher Sam begins a pen pal relationships with a Florida death row inmate Dennis Danson, who is convicted of the murder of a young women. However, Sam believes he is innocent. They later marry, and when new evidence is found that leads to Dennis' release, Sam begins to wonder if she really knows the man she married.

It's different to the usual thrillers I've read as it tackles a brutally realistic view of true crime documentaries, and has be compared to the series Making a Murderer. It had me engrossed throughout and had the right amount of tension and suspense to keep you hooked. It's a must read if you love crime thrillers.

The Kind Worth Killing by Peter Swanson 

My most recent read and definitely my most favourite of the lot. I was put off by the strange concept at first that killing the ones who cheat is a good idea. But I'm glad it didn't stop me from reading! Lily and Ted meet in an airport, and after a few drinks and deep conversation, someone becomes keen on planning a murder or two.

I found this a very intelligent, twisty thriller that's cleverly written. The characters are intriguing and written in depth, with their dark secret spilling out as the story unfolds. An unusual and well-developed story that keeps you guessing!

What have you been reading lately?

Rach
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