January Reads

During the month of December, I had a bit of a reading slump, but I’m happy to say my appetite for books returned full force this month, and I started off 2017 with some really great reads. (My inspiration to take a quality picture of my books was rather lacking, however. But I like an excuse to feature some of my bookish mugs).

So:

The Secret History by Donna Tartt • 5/5 stars
I truly began this year with the book of books, and it’s definitely this month’s favorite. It’s tragic and disturbing and fantastic and will probably be one of my favorites of the year. I’m THAT confident. Full review.

Book Review: A Torch Against the Night by Sabaa Tahir

A Torch Against the Night by Sabaa Tahir (An Ember in the Ashes #2) / My rating: ★★★★1/2

One sentence summary: Laia and Elias begin their journey to Kauf Prison to free Laia’s imprisoned brother from the Martial Empire, and Helene must capture Elias and execute him.

“I thought you told me you loved stories. Have you ever heard a story of an adventurer with a sane plan?”

“Well…no.”

“And why do you think that is?” 

I am at a loss. “Because…ah, because-“

She chuckles again. “Because sane plans never work, girl,” she says. “Only the mad ones do.” 

Book Review: An Ember in the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir

An Ember in the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir (An Ember in the Ashes #1) / My rating:★★★★☆

One sentence summary: Laia enters slavery as a spy in order to save her brother Darin, who is taken by the Martial Empire, while Elias is a soldier who desires freedom, but is chosen to enter The Trials to become emperor of the Martial Empire.

Life is made of so many moments that mean nothing. Then one day, a single moment comes along to define every second that comes after. The moment Darin called out—that was such a moment. It was a test of courage, of strength. And I failed it.