Last month, most of the books I recommended were primarily non-fiction books targeted towards starting off the new year. However, most of us know that there is much more to appreciate in fiction, mystery, and sci-fiction novels! If you are thinking that you do not have time for reading—you may be wrong. Reading can be slipped in your daily lives very easily. For those looking for a virtual activity with friends, try doing a virtual reading together or a Book Club! For those who are looking for some solo activities, you can either sit down and read, or borrow an Audiobook and listen the book while you are cooking, sewing, or even cleaning. Here are my recommendations for February!
Celtic Empire by Clive Cussler and Dirk Cussler
Celtic Empire is a Dirk Pitt adventure series that is typically published every two years by author Clive Cussler and his son Dirk Cussler. The story is Pitt’s 25th adventure and is sparked by events in Memphis Egypt, 1334 B.C.E., in which a ship carries the Princess Meritaten and other Egyptians who are trying to flee a deadly plague. In our time, U.N. scientists are investigating several deaths in El Salvador, but then are murdered themselves. It is up to Dirk Pitt, who is the Director of the National Underwater and Marine Agency, to figure out what is happening. This mystery thriller book is a catchy and worthwhile read! I enjoyed the mix of science, history, and mystery that the novel brings to readers.
Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
Gone Girl is a story that focuses on marriage between two individuals (Nick and Amy Dunne) in North Carthage, Missouri. Nick and Amy Dunne were preparing to celebrate their fifth anniversary with presents all wrapped and reservations made by Amy. Suddenly, Amy is gone. The story walks through Nick’s journey in finding his wife going through endless series of lies. Readers will try to figure out who is the killer, is it Nick? This book is a page turner filled with suspense. If you are looking for a suspenseful thriller, this is the one for you.
The Guest List by Lucy Foley
The Guest List is the winner of the GoodReads Choice 2020 for the Mystery & Thriller Category. For all mystery and thriller fans, this is a recommended read! The story takes place on an island off the coast of Ireland, where a couple (Jules Keegan and Will Slater) were getting married. The couple had planned the wedding perfectly and everything was running smoothly, however, can everything always run smoothly? Everyone on the island carries a secret and motive. Shockingly and suddenly, someone turns up dead. Curious what happened? Try the book!
The Midnight Library by Matt Haig
The Midnight Library by Matt Haig is another winner of GoodReads Choice 2020 for the Fiction Category and is a highly recommended read! The Midnight Library is a story about an individual, Nora Seed, who finds herself in a place called the Midnight Library. Nora is presented with the opportunity to change her life. Before this, Nora’s life has been filled with misery and regrets. Suddenly, she has the potential to change her life entirely from changing in careers, undo breakups in previous relationships and discovering her true dream career. More importantly, Nora finds the answer to the ultimate question, what is the best way to live? This is an amazing story that is relatable to everyone. We have all come across a point in life where we had to make important decisions. Sometimes we wonder, what would have happened if we made another the other decision? Is the other decision better? A must read for everyone.
The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss
For all those sci-fi and fantasy lovers, this is a must read for you. The story is told through the character, Kvothe’s own voice. It is a story about the magically gifted young man who grows up to become the most notorious wizards in the world. The story focuses on Kvothe’s journey after experiencing a tragic childhood where his family were killed by the supernatural. After the tragic incident, Kvothe devotes his life toward seeking revenge for his family and pays a valuable price through his journey. The story is full of action and beautifully written. All science fiction and fantasy fans will love it.
Happy reading!