October/November Book List

Before We Were Yours

I actually checked this book out from the library because my book club is reading for our next meeting. I didn't have time to read it but I wish I had. Those who did read it really were moved by the plight of these children. The book is based on factual events that took place over a period of years. So grab your tissues and this book!

The Last Tudor

One of my favorite authors of all time finished her series of many book on the reign of the Tudors in England. This was not my favorite book, but it was good. It was depressing and a bit monotonous at time but then again, being a woman born into royalty during these times in history could be very depressing. I learned a lot of things I didn't know about the youngest sister Mary, and was pleased to learn the real meaning of... sealed with a kiss. 

I could never NOT recommend a book by this author, but if you haven't read any of her books yet, don't start with this one. Start with The Other Boleyn Girl, and before you know it, you'll be hooked!

Beneath a Scarlet Sky

Best book I've read in a LONG time! LOVED this one!! The main character is a charming boy who finds himself in some very dangerous situations during WW2 in Italy. The true story is so heart breaking and heart warming that I laughed and cried during this amazing recounting of his life and his own contributions to the war. I listened to this on CD and enjoyed every minute of it. I highly recommend it.

Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine

Not sure how I've ended up reading so many books about truly odd characters this year, but Eleanor is beyond odd with a some really scary and sad secrets from her past. Her mother is beyond evil. But Eleanor's survival skills and outlook on life are both admirable and humorous. 

My Absolute Darling

This book should come with a warning! It contains graphic verbal, emotional and physical abuse. Do NOT read this book if you are sensitive in any way. It's been a very difficult book to get through for me. I appreciate that it is extremely well written and the prose is simply phenomenal. However, the subject matter is so disturbing that I find myself hesitating to go back to it and it leaves me feeling drained. I think this book is for someone with a stronger constitution than mine. Please read at your own risk.

When I haven't been reading, I have been watching some amazing shows!

Handmaid's Tale 

I watched the first season of this series and am hooked. It is very much like the book and stays so true to the intent of the book. I like that. The acting is incredible and I am anxiously awaiting season two.

Alias Grace

This was a mini series based on the book and contains QUILTING! It is not about quilting, but the series was just as captivating as the book and it is totally worth the time. I highly recommend the book and the series.

Hunger Games (all 4)

We had a Hunger Games viewing marathon over Thanksgiving break. My daughter had never seen the last movie, so we watched 1 & 2 one day and 3 & 4 the next. The dogs loved getting all that snuggle time on the sofa, and I like watching series movies back to back. It's such a great way to really pick up the connections from one to the next and see the subtle details that can be forgotten when you have to wait a year between sequels. I forget anyway! Loved all of these movies!

Outlander

I can't omit Outlander. The books have had me hooked for years and the series has not disappointed. Even though the shows deviate quite a bit from the books for various reasons, I do like the way the characters are very true to the characters in the books. It's an amazing series that is full of drama, action and a good bit of steamy action if you know what I mean! Don't watch this with young children in the room. LOL