Did you get a gift card, tablet, or new eReader for Christmas? Here are a few books I read this year that you might want to get a copy of for yourself. I have wide-ranging tastes in books, so there’s probably something for everyone here. Of course, if you haven’t read Choices, my second novel, you can take a look at it as well. Happy Reading!
1. Life Expectancy by Dean Koontz (2005). A romp following the file of a young man was given five dates that will be devastating in his life. More humor than thriller due to the main character’s attitude, the book was charming.
2. American Libre by Raul Ramos Y Sanchez (2009). This suspense novel follows the life of a loyal American as the country turns against the Hispanic population placing the lives of his family in peril. The portrayal of the media in fueling and expanding the fear and violence was chillingly realistic.
3. Cuckoo’s Calling by Robert Galbraith (JK Rowling pseudonym) (2013). I loved the secondary character in this classic detective mystery and after awhile, very much enjoyed the main character as well. Accessible writing kept me turning pages. I was a bit disappointed with the resolution, but still a solid read.
4. The Silla Project by John Brewer (2012). With North Korea continuing to find its way in the news, this novel – an adventurous and romantic thriller – reveals what the lives of normal people are like in the secretive country. If you’re not a physicist, just skim through the science stuff – you won’t miss anything.
5. Ocean at the End of the Lane by Neil Gaiman (2013). Wonderful, sweeping writing in this short novel, making it accessible to teens and adults. The allegory is a bit heavy handed for me, but nevertheless, a well done novel.
6. Slave Across the Street by Theresa Flores. On a darker, true life note, this book is the memoir of a suburban girl who found herself psychologically trapped into being trafficked. This book jumps around and it not well written (although I understand there is a new edition that is better), but is extremely informative.