I don’t know why, but January always seems to drag on forever. Is it the return to routine after the disruption of the holidays? Is it the cold and gloomy weather? Whatever the reason, I found books to be a big comfort this month.

January’s reads included:

• The September House by Carissa Orlando
• Social Justice for the Sensitive Soul by Dorcas Cheng-Tozun
• Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas
• All In by Jennifer Lynn Barnes
• The Lake of Lost Girls by Katherine Greene
• Something Lost, Something Gained by Hillary Clinton

Let’s get into the reviews!

The September House by Carissa Orlando

This was a very strange book, but I mean that in a good way!

Margaret and her husband, Hal, finally live in their dream house- a beautiful Victorian home. But there’s a big problem. They are not alone. If that weren’t enough, every September, the house really comes alive. The walls start bleeding. Children scream. Items are rearranged. And everyone is scared of what lives in the basement. Regardless, Margaret is unwilling to leave, even after her husband goes missing.

This was an entertaining read, but I did find Margaret’s lack of concern to be a bit frustrating at times.

Rating: 7/10

Social Justice for the Sensitive Soul by Dorcas Cheng-Tozun

While most of us picture protests and other very visible ways of getting involved when it comes to social justice, this book examines more quiet ways to make a difference. Think art and research.

I thought this was an interesting read and a good starting point if you’re looking to get more involved in certain causes. However, I do wish it had contained more examples of ‘ordinary’ people getting involved in social justice work and how they went about it.

Rating: 7/10

Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas

I’m excited to finally be starting this series! It’s been on my TBR list for some time.

Celaena Sardothien, a famed assassin, is only half alive after spending more than a year in a prison labor camp. But she’s been offered the opportunity to win her freedom in a dangerous and deadly tournament where the winner will serve as the King’s champion. However, it’s not just the competitors that pose a threat. There’s something evil lurking in the castle.

I thoroughly enjoyed this first book and I’m excited to see where the series goes from here!

Rating: 8/10

All In by Jennifer Lynn Barnes

This is the third book in The Naturals series, so it may contain spoilers for the first two books, The Naturals and Killer Instinct. Proceed with caution.

Cassie is finally starting to feel like the other “naturals” are her family. But just as she’s getting comfortable, they’re all sent to Las Vegas to investigate a strange string of murders. At the same time, Cassie has received devastating personal news about her mother, who disappeared years ago. Can Cassie keep her focus on the danger happening in front of them and will she ever uncover the truth about what happened to her mom?

I don’t want to spoil anything, but I found the ending to this one to be a bit confusing, but also intriguing. I’m hoping things get explained a bit more in the next book. Also, I wish this book had spent more time with the characters and maybe a bit less on the case itself. I, personally, love the interactions/drama between all of the “naturals.”

Rating: 7/10

The Lake of Lost Girls by Katherine Greene

Lindsey has always lived in the shadow of her older sister, who disappeared in front of the family’s house in a matter of seconds. Now, as an adult, Lindsey is ready for answers about what happened to Jessica. A new true crime podcast has renewed interest in the case just as local police have found a body.

Told from Lindsey’s POV, Jessica’s POV, and a podcast transcript, this book started off super strong! I love a good mystery and multiple timelines. However, I did guess the ending pretty early on. But, of course, I had to stick around to find out if I was right. Though, the truth didn’t really sit right with me.

Rating: 7/10

Something Lost, Something Gained by Hillary Clinton

After reading Social Justice for the Sensitive Soul earlier this month, I wanted to start reading more memoirs and biographies, especially written by women and about women. This ended up being a great (and timely) place to start!

From her Methodist faith and values to her friendships to her life after her presidential run, this book touched on a little bit of everything. It was both personal and political. I found it to be a fascinating read.

Rating: 10/10

Want more book reviews? Check out what I read in December 2024!

As always, I want to know what you are reading. Leave a comment below.