What I Read in October

Wow, what a week. Why does doing anything right now feel like a major moment you have to log in the history books for posterity? That said, I’m finishing this post at 9:30pm on Wednesday night. The polls are tight and tense and so are all of us. I’m feeling simultaneously incredibly on edge and full of cautious optimism.

It’s a weird week.

I wasn’t sure what my plan for content was going to be this week, and I honestly still don’t know. I spent a lot of time on Instagram today distracting myself and all of you from doomscrolling and obsessing over news headlines, and that felt right.

Books have always brought me massive comfort during difficult times. I figured if there was any content that felt “right” to release during Election Week, it would be my monthly reading wrap up. I finished four books last month, all of which I very much enjoyed and recommend!

The Girl Who Reads on the Metro by Christine Féret-Fleury
Rating: 5/5 stars
What I liked/disliked: This book is truly a love letter to books and the people that read them. Set in one of my favorite cities in the world, I had a strong feeling I would love this book. I loved the writing here, but it’s the characters that really seal the deal. You’ll fall in love with all of their little quirks and especially their love for reading. I know I’ll return to this book on days when I just need to feel good.

The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by VE Schwab
Rating: 5/5 stars
What I liked/disliked: At some point, when I’m less tense, I will write a full review of this book. It was one of my most anticipated releases of the year and did not let me down. I honestly think it’s one of VE Schwab’s best adult works to date. While I absolutely loved every bit of the story, I did not expect the pacing to be as slow as it was. If you’re just starting to read Schwab, I don’t recommend starting with this book. But I definitely recommend reading it!!

When No One is Watching by Alyssa Cole
Rating: 4.5/5 stars
What I liked/disliked: I first read Alyssa Cole a few months ago when I discovered her romance series, so I was super surprised and excited to see that she’d written a thriller! You all know scary is not my thing but this book was so good! It’s definitely more of a mystery than a thriller/horror novel, in the traditional sense. It was a perfect mix of memorable characters, relatable moments, and blended reality and history in a brilliant way. Anyone who has witnessed the horrors of gentrification will be nodding their heads and totally on edge while reading this. I highly recommend, especially if you’re looking for a dark and creepy read.

Lobizona by Romina Garber
Rating: 4/5 stars
What I liked/disliked: Not going to lie, I totally judged this book by the cover (which is beautiful). And it worked in my favor! I think this series needs more hype. If you’re looking for a YA series where kids are learning and coming into their magic while away from their families at a magical school, pick this up! I do think the constant Harry Potter references do the story a bit of a disservice. The addition of Argentinean folklore, however, was perfect in this story and made it such an atmospheric read. I’ll definitely be continuing the series.

Let me know what you read last night, or what you’re reading to get through this tough week. Stay calm, drink some water, meditate, pray, and take care of yourself. No matter what.