I have a few books to share this month. Earlier this year I set a Goodreads goal to read 30 books for 2015, and I’m currently at 20. Since I started using audiobooks through Audible, my reading output has increased — I listen while walking, driving, waiting at appointments, or doing chores. Audiobooks make it easy to enjoy books even when my eyes are tired, but I still love holding a physical book when I can.
Here are the titles I’ve finished recently and the ones I’m reading now.
Happiness for Beginners by Katherine Center
This was a quick, engaging read. The novel follows a 32-year-old woman who attends a three-week wilderness retreat after a divorce to get her life back on track. I enjoyed watching her change as she opens up to new friendships and learns more about herself. The pacing is brisk and the tone is warm, making it an ideal choice for a cozy afternoon listen or light weekend read.
One Plus One by Jojo Moyes
A pleasant, fast-moving story about two very different people who form an unlikely partnership. The characters are relatable and imperfect in believable ways, and the romance develops naturally. It’s an enjoyable read for fans of contemporary romance with heart and humor.
Everything I Never Told You by Celeste Ng
I listened to this on audiobook and found it deeply affecting. The novel is quiet and tragic, yet beautifully written, with careful attention to each character’s inner life. The author takes time to develop the family dynamics so readers can feel the full weight of the story. It’s an emotional read, but one I highly recommend for its insightful portrayal of grief and family.
Currently reading:
The Good Girl by Mary Kubica
I’ve just started this one as an audiobook. It’s a suspenseful thriller with shifting perspectives, and I’m curious to see how the plot and characters unfold.
Left Neglected by Lisa Genova
I’m about halfway through this compelling novel and finding it hard to put down. It follows a career-driven mother of three who sustains brain injury in a car accident, leaving her unable to perceive or attend to the left side of her world. The story explores recovery, resilience, and the ways personal priorities shift after trauma. Lisa Genova also wrote Still Alice, which I recommend if you enjoyed this.
I hope you enjoy these recommendations. There are affiliate links to Amazon in the original post; I earn a small commission from purchases made through those links. Thank you for supporting Aggie’s Kitchen!