Welcome to Quick Lit, where we share short and sweet book reviews of what we’ve been reading lately.
What I’ve learned this fall: book tour is hard on my reading life. I struggle to read while on the road, but still managed to cobble together a list of five enjoyable new releases I’ve read lately. (And I am happy to say that despite my aversion to reading on airplanes, I read a hundred pages of this book in-flight and was way too proud of myself.)
Quick Lit October 2018
Becoming Mrs. Lewis: The Improbable Love Story of Joy Davidman and C. S. Lewis
Author: Patti Callahan
I love the backstory on this: when a friend asked Patti Henry what she would write about if she could write about anything: the answer came at once: Joy Davidman. Years later, this book is the result of that conversation. In her new biographical novel, Henry tells how American poet and mother Joy Davidman became the wife of C.S. Lewis. While I thought I was familiar with the story, I learned something new on every page, and polished this off in an enjoyable two days. More info →
Almost Everything: Notes on Hope
Author: Anne Lamott
You know it's a good sign when you want to read a book out loud to anyone close enough to listen, and that was me with this new Anne Lamott book (which, as a bonus, is completely gorgeous). The guiding principle here, as she expresses in her "Humans 101" chapter, is: "Almost everything is screwed up, broken, clingy, scared, and yet designed for joy." I laughed, I cried—sometimes on the same page. This is one I'll want to read again soon. More info →
Unsheltered
Author: Barbara Kingsolver
Barbara Kingsolver is a must-read author for me. I love her work, especially The Poisonwood Bible. At 466 pages, this is a long book, but I inhaled it. Kingsolver writes that she is explicitly addressing the events of her time, but she does that in part by looking back: her double narrative follows the life-changing decisions and uncertain times experienced by two separate families, one hundred years apart, who both live in the same home in Vineland, New Jersey. Kingsolver found one heck of a subject for the historical element, an American scientist I'd previously never heard of named Mary Treat. I loved the clever linking of the chapter titles—pick up the book and you'll see what I mean. More info →
The Witch Elm
Author: Tana French
I just finished this last night—I started it on book tour and found it too creepy to read late at night in strange hotel rooms! You may know French from her six Dublin Murder Squad mysteries; this is her first standalone. The characters may be unfamiliar, but the slow build, brooding characters, and psychological tension feel like hallmark French. Toby Hennessy is a good-looking, well-to-do twenty-something. He's always considered himself lucky, but early in the novel he makes one bad decision. The devastating consequences lend an eery, off-kilter feel to the whole book (you'll see)—and that's before we get to the murder plot. This would be an excellent companion to Judy Blundell's The High Season for its themes of forgery, family, and privilege. More info →
What have YOU been reading lately? Tell us all about it in comments or share a link in the comments to your post on what you’ve been reading lately!
87 comments
I also read Lethal White this month! Here’s what I’ve been reading.
I read 19 books this month! Six of my favorites are reviewed here: https://kendranicole.net/quick-lit-reading-wrap-up-part-three-october-2018/
That is a TON of books!
Catching up my reading record with What I Read June – September 2018. So many good books and several, thanks to your recommendations. Thank you!
I always enjoy your lists, Anne! I didn’t know Barbara Kingsolver had a new one out. And I’m intrigued that Anne Lamott has a new one as well. My response to her work has been mixed but I always respect your recommendations so I will check it out. Thanks!
Here is my October Quick Lit post: http://prinsenhouse.blogspot.com/2018/10/october-2018-quick-lit-what-ive-been.html
I just finished the Bible study “Breathe” by Priscilla Shirer. Read what I thought here: https://writethemonmyheart.com/2018/09/20/breathe-bible-study-review/
I am intrigued by the Mrs. Lewis book! I know nothing about her!
Here’s what I’ve been reading!
My favorite book from last month was Bird Box by Josh Malerman which came out a few years ago. It’s one of the best thrillers I have ever read and perfect for this time of year. That one plus more reviews here:
http://iamyourrabbit.com/home/what-i-ve-been-reading-oct-18
I’ve been enjoying a lot of cozy mysteries lately, perfect fall reads! I just discovered the Lady Sherlock series by Sherry Thomas. They have been amazing. Here’s my latest review on A Conspiracy in Belgravia: https://anovellook.com/home/2018/10/15/book-review-a-conspiracy-in-belgravia-by-sherry-thomas
Oooh, what a great list! I devoured Lethal White last week, and I CANNOT WAIT to get my hands on the new Tana French.
Otherwise, lately I’ve been reading a bunch of books because I liked their pretty covers: http://www.anneinresidence.com/2018/10/reading-lately-do-judge-book-by-its.html
Here’s what I’m reading! http://neverenoughnovels.com/2018/10/15/reading-roundup-46/
Becoming Mrs. Lewis is on my list too! Here’s my most recent post about reading and my crazy library holds list:
http://readeatrepeat.net/2018/10/15/books-in-progress-what-im-reading-right-now-october-2018/
This month’s BOOKBAG is packed with –
* 2 books on discovering God in the midst of life’s craziness
* a peek at my favorite historical fiction writer
* a brand new bio
* links to the books I can’t wait to pick up
* links to the online reads I thought were fabulous
http://www.lindastoll.net/2018/10/the-bookbag-october-2018.html
That’s an intriguing list!
I can’t wait to read Lethal White…I love love love The Cormoran Strike series! I read two really great middle grade novels recently: https://www.thenovelendeavor.com/2018/09/two-middle-grade-novels-perfect-for-fall-reading/
My recent reads include a past nonfiction, a recent nonfiction, and a classic! http://www.sincerelystacie.com/2018/10/quick-lit-mini-reviews-of-some-recent-reads-october-edition/
Becoming Mrs. Lewis is in my to be read pile and I can’t wait to read it. I have heard so many great things about it. My recent reads include some great fiction and nonfiction books. https://fromourbookshelf.com/what-i-read-in-september-lynn/
I really like the sound of Becoming Mrs Lewis! I’ve been embracing the changing seasons with my reading choices lately, and also trying to challenge myself with new genres (like short stories)
http://femalescriblerian.com/2018/10/15/what-ive-been-reading-lately-september/
I’m reading Becoming Mrs. Lewis and enjoying it. Just saw Patti Callahan on her book tour and she was phenomenal! I’m eager to get my hands on Ann Lamott’s latest. I just finished I Feel Bad About My Neck by Nora Ephron. It was fabulous!!!!!! I want to reread it right away. I’m listing to Summer Wives by Beatriz Williams.
Have you watched Everything Is Copy, the Nora Ephron documentary? It’s so good! I watched it after I read I Feel Bad About My Neck earlier this year.
Does Lethal White end with another cliffhanger?
Galbraith doesn’t tie things up with a neat little bow but no cliffhanger. (Which I appreciated.)
I have been reading “Reading People” by Anne Bogel
Happy reading! (and thanks!)
My reading has been slowed to a trickle but I posted about what I read anyways. http://myviewofthehoneypot.blogspot.com/2018/10/october-reading.html
Finally getting back on the book review wagon after dealing with morning sickness and the stomach bug! Here’s what I read over the last two months: https://www.marilumorgan.com/what-i-read-in-august-and-september-2018/
Oh no! I’m so glad you’re feeling better.
I also read a Tana French novel recently, plus one that you’ve been recommending for a long time!
Here are my recent reads: https://www.mindjoggle.com/october-2018-book-reviews/
Here’s the mix of kidlit and adult books I’ve been reading https://abookishhome.com/2018/10/15/what-ive-been-reading-3/
I recently finished Unsheltered as well! Still putting my thoughts together on it, but here’s my recent reads ?http://www.bornandreadinchicago.com/2018/10/books-i-read-in-september.html
I agree – Becoming Mrs Lewis sounds really intriguing. In the course of this month´s reading, I discovered that I have been vulpeculated!
https://susandcook.blogspot.com/2018/10/quick-lit-october-2018.html
Looking forward to the new Kingsolver. And I loved Almost Everything. Here’s my latest reading roundup: https://katieleigh.wordpress.com/2018/10/15/october-reading-roundup-1-6/
Some of my favorite books http://afreshstartonabudget.com/the-best-books-ive-ever-read-id-rather-be-reading-review/
I have read some of Estelle Ryans book about autistique Genevive L, and the came the next of onw of my favourite nowadays author Anne Perry TripleJeopardy
OOH I’m so excited about Becoming Mrs. Lewis! I’ve been in line at the library for such a long time … still at least 25 people ahead of me though! My September reads: https://becomingperfectlymyself.wordpress.com/2018/10/01/what-i-read-september-2018-edition/
I’ve recently read (and loved!) A Place for Us by Fatima Fahreen Mirza.
A new Anne Lamott book? Yay!!! I will add that to my list. I’m currently reading “A Prayer for Owen Meany” and “The Last Ballad.”
Here are 6 books I recommend from last month’s reading.
https://www.lisanotes.com/books-i-recommend-september-2018/
I’ve been reading the Miss Julia series, written by Ann B Ross. I love it, and Miss Julia is awesome! Her adventures are fun, she is hilarious, and fun to read! I’d love to have a friend like Miss Julia.
I can’t wait to read Unsheltered. I’m hoping to get a copy when she’s in town for a reading next week! Here’s what I’ve read lately:
https://vivaciousreads.com/2018/10/15/short-reviews-6-new-fall-favorites/
Becoming Mrs. Lewis sounds so good!
Here’s a peek at what I’ve been reading: https://happyprettysweet.com/2018/10/15/fall-reading/
I just finished Almost Sisters and adored the narrator! Her wit was a sharp as a whip and she was downright hilarious at times. I love that it shows how choices made bond those together out of love and loyalty. And how that effects our course in life. Now I’m reading the Tattooist of Auschwitz. But Lethal White is Next!
Joshilyn Jackson reads The Almost Sisters herself! I think she’s a fantastic narrator of her own work, which is rare for a novelist.
I’m listening to this now and have it on a usb drive in my car. I want to drive all the places so I can finish!! She’s an excellent narrator!!
Once I got my head around the fact that The Witch Elm is part family drama / part mystery (i.e. the mystery is extremely slow to develop), I really liked it!
My October mini reviews: https://www.sarahsbookshelves.com/what-im-reading-now-10-15-18/
A Place for Us – Fatima Faheem Mirza
I know you read this one Anne. Its one of my favorites in a few years. There are really good books and then there are “great” books. This is a great one!
I’m so glad you enjoyed it!
I can’t wait to read the Barbara Kingsolver and the Tana French books. I ordered Unsheltered from Bookshelf Thomasville when I heard on their podcast that Kingsolver had written a introduction to be included in books sold from independent bookstores. I can’t wait to see what she has to say!
Here’s a peak at what I have been reading lately 🙂
https://staceyloscalzo.com/2018/10/quick-lit-october-2018/
Here’s the link to my post about what I read this past weekend. I could have included your book as well, but I read that the day it came out!
http://booksaremything.blogspot.com/2018/10/monday-mini-reviews-books-about-books.html
Here’s my link to what I’ve been reading lately!
https://iblogforbooks.blogspot.com/2018/10/quick-lit-october-edition.html
These aren’t all recent reads, but are super helpful books that make an impact.
https://purplecrayonyourworld.com/5-break-through-books-for-todays-creatives/
My recent reads have been more in the personal growth genre. Here are my recent reads, I would love any additional suggestions. https://alwaysmorepie.wordpress.com/2018/10/15/what-ive-been-reading-lately-3/
I read Lethal White, too! It was so good. I did not enjoy 2 books that I was expecting to love based on the author’s other books that I’ve loved—The Clockmaker’s Daughter by Kate Morton did not live up to expectations. It was a struggle to get through it. Windfallen by Jojo Moyes was not so great, either. I’m trying not to get into a slump after those 2.
You are not alone in your Clockmaker experience, sadly.
It was almost like I was grieving over it not being what I wanted. I had saved it from my BOTM Club box for the weekend so that I could give it my full attention, and then it was a major letdown. I did snag an ARC of The Lost Man on eBay because I’m a terrible, impatient person, and it’s darn good.
So many of these are on my TBR! I especially can’t wait to read The Witch Elm and Unsheltered.
It’s been a good reading month for me! Stand outs for me were The Hazel Wood, The Lola Quartet (by Emily St. John Mandel), and Mr. Penumbra’s 24-Hour Bookstore. Plus a nonfiction pick: Cozy Minimalist Home by the Nester 🙂
All of my picks + Harry Potter party planning: https://www.lauragaskill.com/blog/quick-lit-october-2018
I’m reading The Kite Runner. Yes, I know I’m late to the party on this read! People were raving about over a decade ago and I remember seeing commuters reading it on the subway. I’m enjoying it and next on my list is White Teeth, Zadie Smith and Brick Lane, Monica Ali. None are current due to a great second hand book store where I live. Will you be doing a “what’s hot for Fall 2018” when you get a chance to breathe? My most current read on my list is, There, There by Tommy Orange and I’m thinking of taking on the classic Middlemarch as a winter read challenge.
I can’t wait to read Unsheltered! Here’s the books I read last month. A tone of excellent audiobooks and diverse books to add to any list. https://erikashirk.com/2018/10/15/reading-diversely-quicklit-oct-and-whole-together-family-14-31/
I was wondering if you were going to have any reading done lately, due to the book tour. I don’t know why, though. LOL
Here’s what I’ve been reading:
https://shannanenjoyslife.com/2018/10/15/quick-lit-next-page-please-september-2018/
I just finished. Becoming Mrs Lewis, too…but I don’t have a review ready yet. Here’s a review of My last read https://readingladies.com/2018/10/12/the-tattooist-of-auschwitz/
Your plane read sounds fun and safe for traveling. Hope your book tour continues to go well. My reads this month ranged from a book on creativity to a political thriller to a YA sci fi series.
I have ben curious about Becoming Mrs. Lewis but have a hard time reading biographical novels because I have a need to fact-check and get annoyed when authors use creative license as an excuse for making things up, so I am leaning towards going straight to a biography about her, but I’m seeing this book everywhere so I just cannot make up my mind!
p.s. It was wonderful meeting you in Austin!!
Here are my September reads: https://elle-alice.blogspot.com/2018/09/september-book-reviews.html
I absolutely adored two recent reads:
https://www.instagram.com/p/BoZjtw6FCMw/?taken-by=wendy.b.reads
https://www.instagram.com/p/Bo89kWpFKNe/?taken-by=wendy.b.reads
I am looking forward to both Unsheltered and the new Anne Lamott.
My favorite recent reads: The Fabulous Bouvier Sisters; Simple Acts of Kindness (kind of a gift book but great ideas and very encouraging); Rush by Lisa Patton. I have the Lamott book and Becoming Mrs. Lewis on hold at the library along with The Last Midwife.
My reading life has been slowing down a bit too, but not because I’m doing something as exciting as being on a book tour. (My excuse is that I have a newborn!)
Here’s what I HAVE been reading lately, though:
http://www.toloveandtolearn.com/2018/10/15/loving-and-learning-lately-6/
This month I revisted an old favorite, checked out a backlist title from a favorite author, and of course tried Anne’s new book! You can see my October reviews here:
https://goteamotto.blogspot.com/b/post-preview?token=APq4FmAVA9DfrZxN3ydKE0XoNZMNQUlUPl3QcKkxizeTtSR3YFPboCflF1CGkN0AXtLK-SkzQ_PkijRMF1XINgw5vfl9uhO6ikeCd_wSH0eO0rX1CYnVs5kVYrBrcMiAWg_nUDAoDTn2&postId=1819035281749694099&type=POST
I’m trying to save Lethal White for my trip to Scotland over Christmas, but it’s SO TEMPTING to just read it right now! I re-read some “back to school” YA favorites this fall. https://www.questionerchronicles.com/home/2018/10/15/my-back-to-school-reading-list
Whoo hoo! Can’t wait to dive into the new Tana French. I also would love to pick up the Barbara Kingsolver.
Here’s what I’ve been reading! http://www.tbretc.com/etc/quicklitbooksreadoctober2018
I just finished Belong to Me (read Loved Walked In and that one so I can read I’ll Be Your Blue Sky). Currently on #2 of the Inspector Gamache series now. I am intrigued by the Cormoran Strike series, but quite sensitive (INFP, Enneagram 9, HSP… you know the drill!), and mostly only read after the kids are in bed, so I have been leery to start it! I ADORE JK Rowling though!
I just discovered Robert Galbraith this weekend! I read the first 3 over the weekend on Overdrive and bought Lethal White on Kindle to read next. Also I’m reading Glass Castles by Jeanette Walls. I’m a third through and don’t know what I think of it.
Here’s what I read last month –
Tanya – The Other Side of the Road
I really want to read the new Kingsolver! I actually read 14 books last month.
I’m currently on hold at the library to read UNSHELTERED and THE WITCH ELM — very excited for those both! I just finished my ARC of DAUGHTERS OF THE LAKE by Wendy Webb, one of my favorite authors. Her newest did not disappoint!
I am looking forward to reading Becoming Mrs. Lewis.
I have a quick question. I know you’ve been reeeeaaaalllly busy, but do you have any plans to go back to the old way you had the links on Quick Lit, instead of having the links in comments? I like it better the old way. Thanks!
I’m excited to dive into Becoming Mrs. Lewis. It sounds fantastic! And Barbara Kingsolver is an all-time favorite for me. Here’s what I read this month: https://www.alivelyhope.com/2018/10/what-ive-been-reading-lately-october.html
It has been a thriller month for me!
http://www.thecomforttable.net/no-one-knows/
We’ve been doing a little Reading Challenge (affectionately called ‘Booktober’) over on my blog this month so this has been a good month for my TBR list. Here’s what I’ve been reading–http://themythretold.com/october-quick-lit-booktober-check-in/
Here’s my latest update on what I’ve been reading: https://thereisnosuchthingasagodforsakentown.blogspot.com/2018/10/reading-update.html
Here are my 12 recent reads…just in the first two weeks of October. (I’m sheepish & proud of this?!?) https://courageforabetterstory.wordpress.com/2018/10/11/what-ive-been-reading-october-2018/
I’ve been binge-reading books about the American Revolution the past couple of weeks: “Bunker Hill” by Nathanial Philbrick, “Victory at Yorktown” by Richard Ketchum, and “1776” by David McCullough. All very good, well-written and researched. I’ve stayed up way too late reading because I just had to know what happened next. “Mom,” my oldest son says, “you know what happens.” Well, yes, but I don’t know the details!
I loved Unsheltered for so many reasons and the cleverness of the chapter titles is one of them! Aside from a great story, it made me think which I always love in my fiction.
Beyond that I enjoyed The Clockmaker’s Daughter. Not as much as her other books, but it still provided a nice escape.
https://gilmoreguidetobooks.com/2018/10/ten-long-books-hits-and-misses/
Just added Becoming Mrs. Lewis to my wishlist!
I recently wrapped up The Night Circus (for the first time—I’m never up to speed with the new releases) and loved it. Perfect October read!
My library holds on both the Barbara Kingsolver and the Anne Lamott came in on Monday, and I’m feeling a little stressed by the 14 day loan stickers, since I also have to finish The Dream Lover by Elizabeth Berg and read a couple of other books for book club ASAP. However, knowing that you liked them soothes me a little bit. Thanks for the positivity when I needed it!
I’ve been looking for book club recommendations and I think I just hit the jackpot! Add “Spirit of the Fox” by Mathew O’Connell to your reading list. A great combo of women’s fiction and strange phenomenons; a page turner for sure! His site http://www.matthewoconnellauthor.com has more info plus his other book, and other book recommendations.
*Matthew O’Connell – my fingers got away from me!
As always,thanks for the thoughtful recommendations, Anne! Definitely adding Almost Everything to my TBR!
I am very behind on my reading list for this year so I’ve been playing catch-up! I recently read and loved Us Against You by Fredrik Backman. Definitely one of my favourite reads for 2018. Also finished China Rich Girlfriend two nights ago and I highly recommend it! I picked up Rich People Problems last night and I am flying through it.