#0025 A Month of Reading

I spent a great stretch of May doing some research reading for my new novel, He’s Going to Kill You. Before I write on my next project, I like to get my feet wet by reading some new novels on my to‑read‑list and some comparable titles.

Here are the books I red, in the order they were red. Below you'll find my reviews.

Flower for Algernon by Daniel Keyes

4/5 Stars. I recommend it for everyone. Get a copy here.

I selected this novel because my wife told me I should read it. This one has no actual connection to what I’m writing, but it’s another book under my belt. I’d like to think that every book I read makes me a better author.

This novel is a masterpiece that explores the depths of human emotions, intelligence, and the nature of compassion. Through Charlie Gordon's transformation from a mentally disabled man to a genius, the narrative delves into themes of identity, acceptance, and the ethical implications of scientific advancement. The bond between Charlie and Algernon, the laboratory mouse, is a touching reminder for us to cherish our abilities and appreciate the worth of every individual. I have to admit that I loved this book, though I would only give it four out of five stars. Within the first few chapters, the reader will probably be able to guess where the story is heading.

A Time for Mercy by John Grisham

4/5 Stars. I wouldn’t recommend it to most people, but if you’re interested, you can get a copy here.

I picked this novel because I thought it was a thriller. I wasn’t very thrilled. There’s a big difference between a general thriller and a legal thriller. At the time I purchased this book, I didn’t know that.

With all that said, this novel keeps readers on the edge of their seats from start to finish. Grisham delivers a gripping narrative filled with complex characters, moral dilemmas, and intense courtroom drama. The protagonist, defense attorney Jake Brigance, faces a seemingly impossible case defending a young boy accused of murdering his abusive father. He’s guilty. We find that out in the first chapter. But that’s just the first step of the legal process. Grisham masterfully explores themes of justice, mercy, and the flaws within the legal system, making for a thought-provoking and emotionally charged read. A Time for Mercy is a must-read for fans of legal dramas.

I’ve determined that I don’t really like legal dramas, but I can’t deny that this is a well-written and enjoyable novel. Even though I give it four out of five stars, I’ll probably never recommend it to anyone, because it goes too hardcore on the legal process. I don’t know anyone that wants that.

The Inmate by Freida McFadden

5/5 Stars. Highly recommended for anyone looking of a good thriller mystery. Get your copy here.

I picked this one because it’s a top performer in its genre. I wasn’t disappointed. This is an absolute triumph that kept me captivated from start to finish. The story takes the readers into the gripping world of a maximum-security prison, where we meet the enigmatic protagonist, beautifully layered with complexity and depth. It’s an immersive experience. The prose is simple, which makes it easy to follow the rollercoaster of emotions as the narrative unfolds. With its compelling plot twists and thought-provoking themes of redemption and resilience, this novel is an absolute masterpiece that leaves a lasting impact. I was surprised how much I liked it.

My only disappointment is that I learned nothing new. One of my favorite parts of reading is finding unfamiliar words or memorable quotes. Since the novel is written from the perspective of your average Joe, rather than told through the thoughtful words of a narrator, the story is told in a more simplistic manner. It’s a minor disappointment that’s easily forgiven with the quality of story that’s told.

The Good Lie by A. R. Torre

5/5 Stars. Not the winner of this show, but a strong second place. Recommend for anyone looking for an excellent thriller mystery. Get your copy here.

I picked this one because it’s a top performer in its genre. This book is a gripping and emotionally charged thriller that kept me on the edge of my seat from start to finish. It has masterful storytelling that weaves together a complex web of secrets, suspense, and unexpected twists, leaving readers yearning for more with each turn of the page. The characters are deeply developed and their motivations are flawlessly portrayed, drawing me into their world and making me emotionally invested in their journeys. The plot is brilliantly executed, and the pacing is relentless, making it nearly impossible to put the book down. The writing paints vivid scenes that transported me into the bloody heart (pun intended) of the story.

Something interesting that I picked up from this novel is the use of first- and third-person narratives. The internet previously told me that you shouldn’t switch perspective. Seems to me that the internet was wrong. The switch improved this story and allowed the author to weave a more complex story. I have no complaints and no disappointments in this book.

I will Find You by Harlan Coben

3/5 Stars. Not bad, but not recommended. If it sounds interesting to you, get a copy here.

I picked this book because it’s a top performer in its genre. This book is a suspenseful thriller that keeps readers engaged from start to finish. The story revolves around a compelling protagonist who embarks on a relentless quest to uncover the truth behind the murder of his son, which he was convicted of a few years ago. The writing style is smooth and fast-paced, making it easy to get absorbed in the narrative. However, while the plot is intriguing, I found it difficult to believe. The twists were good, but a little predictable.

Overall, the novel is an entertaining read, but I’ve got a long list of novels to recommend, and this one doesn’t make the cut.

Outside of all my research reading, my wife and I found the time to conquer an amazing cooperative videogame. It’s called It Takes Two, and it does take two. The game cannot be played alone. I give it a 10/10. There’s so much variety in it that it covers just about every genre of videogame known to man, and it’s perfectly designed to play cooperatively. Go grab a friend and play this if you love working together to solve puzzles, traveling platformer levels as a team, and fighting of hordes of enemies. There are not a lot of games I’d give a perfect score. This game, I’m telling you, has everything and does it all right. Get a copy here.

Currently Listen: Some random LoFi on YouTube. I swear it makes me more productive.