The Signature of All Things

By Elizabeth Gilbert

Lyrical, engrossing, and entertaining, this book follows the life of extraordinary Alma Whittaker. She has the mind of a scientist, an odd family, and a passion for botany.

Unholy Awakening

By Michael Gregorio
Paperback
453 pages

Set in Napoleonic times, this is the story about a Prussian Magistrate trying to solve a series of murders. At first glance it seems as though a vampire is walking among the townspeople and killing at will; however, Procurator Stiffeniis doesn't believe in the supernatural.

The plot is clever and intricate. The pacing is slow at first, but it speeds up quickly. The characters are likable and interesting.

It seems to be part of a series, yet it stands on its own. I'm interested in reading other books in the series.

The Seal Wife

By Kathryn Harrison

So not worth it. Kind of boring. Light on plot and slow pacing.

34 Pieces of You

By Carmen Rodrigues

I expected this to be more about drugs. It's actually about depression and pain.
The plot was simple but believable. The pacing was swift and carried a lot of momentum. I read it very quickly.

Uglies Trilogy + Extras

Child and I both read these, but she lost interest after the trilogy.
I agree with her; however, I do think all of these books are a piece of brilliant (if obvious) social commentary.

Inkheart Trilogy

By Cornelia Funke

This was weird. I loved the stories. I enjoyed them a lot while I was reading them. However, these were a very slow read for me. Usually, there is a point in a story when I become eager to progress, when I need to carry it around the house and read a page whenever I can sneak a moment in. That didn't happen  with these. I liked them. In glad I read them. But I won't read them again.

In the Woods

Irish detective novel. Kept me reading, but when all is said and done I don't actually like it.