January in the books

The first month of 2020 was filled with a lot of rest and reading for me. I was sick with a cold for most of the month and although I spent a lot of time traveling for work, I still got in a lot of reading.

Here’s a look at what I read in January:

1. China Rich Girlfriend by Kevin Kwan – 3.5/5 stars

I’ve enjoyed reading the series. I preferred the first book but thought this was a solid continuation. It was funny, outrageous, and fun. I am team Rachel and will read the third and final book in the series at some point this year.

2. Verity by Colleen Hoover – 4/5 stars

This book was creepy. I read it in less than 48 hours because I wanted to know what happened. I had an idea where this thriller was heading plot wise but still ended up being somewhat surprised. The ending was a little ridiculous, but it got under my skin. I want to check out some other books by Colleen.

3. Catch and Kill: Lies, Spies, and a Conspiracy to Protect Predators – 5/5 stars

I listened to the audiobook and was floored. I thought I knew the story but there was so much to it that I didn’t know. I do suggest listening to the audiobook and hearing Ronan Farrow tell his own story. It is infuriating at most times because of the amount of people who have been silence and hurt by people in a position in power. It’s a powerful read and ended up being my favorite book I read in January.

4. The Hunting Party by Lucy Foley – 3/5 stars

I enjoyed this book. It’s not earth-shattering but it kept me guessing the whole time. I enjoyed learning more about each character as the book went on. I thought each character was guilty at different parts of the story and didn’t guess the ending. It’s fun to read a thriller or mystery novel that keeps you guessing.

5. Circe by Madeline Miller – 4/5 stars

I honestly was surprised I liked this book. Circe has a lot of great reviews, but I personally put off reading it for a long time because Greek mythology isn’t something I’ve enjoyed reading in the past. I downloaded the audiobook and couldn’t stop listening while I traveled for events. I enjoyed that it was a coming of age and a story about choosing your own path.

6. If You Want to Make God Laugh by Bianca Marais – 4.75/5 stars

Have you ever finished a book and exhaled and just sat in silence for a little bit as you thought about what you read? That was this book for me. I didn’t tear through it and it’s not a quick read at just over 400 pages. It took me a bit to get into it because of the short chapters and shifting perspectives of the three women, but I couldn’t help but fall in love with the book and the women in it. It’s both haunting and beautiful as well as heartbreaking and uplifting. Bookstagram made me read this one and It didn’t disappoint.

What books have you read so far this year? Would you recommend them?