There’s been a lot of “my least favourite reads from last year” books but I didn’t want to add to those. I don’t think that kind of negative thinking is good when you’re looking back on the year.
I feel like I’m quite late with my 5* reads post from last year. I wanted to really make sure every book I gave top marks to, was one I was still happy to endorse as such.
Luckily, I agreed with 2018 Aoife, and the majority of my 5* reviews stayed.
Challenge criteria: A book nominated for an award in 2018
For Angel Rahimi, life is only about one thing: The Ark – a pop-rock trio of teenage boys who are currently taking the world by storm. Being part of The Ark’s fandom has given her everything – her friendships, her dreams, her place in the world.
Challenge criteria: A book about time travel.
“The first rule is that you don’t fall in love, ‘ he said… ‘There are other rules too, but that is the main one. No falling in love. No staying in love. No daydreaming of love. If you stick to this you will just about be okay.'”
A love story across the ages – and for the ages – about a man lost in time, the woman who could save him, and the lifetimes it can take to learn how to live
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Challenge criteria: A book that involves a bookshop/library
Given a back-room computer job when the beloved Birmingham library she works in turns into a downsized retail complex, Nina misses her old role terribly – dealing with people, greeting her regulars, making sure everyone gets the right books for their needs. Then a new business nobody else wants catches her eye: owning a tiny little bookshop bus up in the Scottish highlands.
Challenge criteria: A book you can read in a day
Disclaimer: I was sent a copy of this book for review by the author. This has in no way influenced my opinion of the book, nor the outcome of this review.
Changing how you think is possible. I wasn’t always so sure that was true until I experienced it myself, but I know now we don’t have to just accept unhappiness. Not always anyway. This book is my collection of tips and suggestions that have helped me achieve happier thinking. It’s sort of a gym for my mind. I’d love to tell you it was easier than the real gym but well… it’s not really. It takes time, effort, and practice but it’s absolutely well worth the rewards.
Pretty Purple Polka Dots 