Book #49:

The Favorites by Layne Fargo (Length: 433 pages).  This is billed as a novel about revenge, sabotage and romance through the lens of ice dancing and is a favorite of many readers. There’s a lot of drama, on almost every page, with the thru line of the protagonist, Katarina, determined to win an Olympic gold medal, come hell or high water. I will say that overall, this is a fun and frothy read, so it’s perfect for the pool or the beach, but I honestly could not stand the protagonist and found it hard to root for her (and to care whether or not she earned that medal). 3.5 stars from me.

Book #50:

The Correspondent by Virginia Evans (Length: 291 pages). I ADORE this epistolary novel so much. This well-written novel tells the story of Sybil’s life told solely via her letters to various people (friends, family, authors, former coworkers). Sybil is a retired attorney and judicial law clerk and she’s very self-aware, which is refreshing. As cranky as she can be, she’s supremely lovable (and beloved). This is such a memorably story and way to tell her story and this would be great discussion fodder for a book club. It’s a short and fast read too, and easy to consume in a few sittings. 5 solid stars from me.

Book #47:

The Names by Florence Knapp (Length: 336 pages).   Bear, Julian and Gordon . . . these are the 3 different names that the baby’s mother Cora is considering for her child. There are three storylines, each based on what happens to the child (and Cora) based on which name he bears and the author checks in with the child (and his family) every 7 years. I absolutely LOVED this book. Domestic abuse is the thru line of this novel and starts from the jump, but it’s not the main narrative and it isn’t too graphic. How these three storylines evolve is a literary feat and I could not stop reading. It’s like a choose your own adventure/life but make it literary fiction. I can’t stop thinking about (or recommending) this incredible novel. 5 stars from me.