Hello and Happy New Year, Fellow Bookworms!
Last year I began a year-long reading challenge that began in August 2015 and ends 2016. In last part of 2015 I read eighteen books. Some good, some bad, some amazing. But each one had a purpose that enriched my life in one way or another. These are the five books that most affected me in 2015 and their reviews can be found on this blog:
5.
Cold Cold Heart by Tami Hoag
This follow-up to the hit novel 9th Girl features the continuing story of Dana Nolan, sole survivor of a viscous serial killer. Damaged physically and mentally she embarks on a trip back to her hometown only to discover that a mystery long put to rest has resurfaced as women begin to be assaulted by a mysterious assailant. Who killed her best friend all those years ago? And is the same man back to take up his old habits? Filled with gut-wrenching tension, this novel takes a bold step in identifying and explaining what it is like to suffer from PTSD. The author also brings her own person story into the end of the book, offering websites and valuable information for those who suffer from trauma-based mental and physical illness. A triumphant novel with a heroine who is flawed and very brave. I loved this book.
4.
The Exorcist by William Peter Blatty
This 197os novel was a cultural phenomenon that sparked controversy, and led to the "scariest movie of all time". When I re-read this novel it had been about thirty years since I had picked up this tale. I chose the fortieth anniversary edition since it was fleshed out further, and some scenes had been changed for a more powerful affect. I read this simultaneously with the audiobook read by the author for the simple reason that he has to be the best narrators I have ever heard. And since he loves his characters, he added a depth to the written narrative that would have been lost by just reading the book. I read this around Halloween time, and it was a perfect chiller for that time of year.
3.
Lost Stars by Claudia Gray
This young adult novel was released on Force Friday to little fanfare. It was then picked up by Star Wars fans, who suddenly realized they were reading one of the best Star Wars story ever written. It soon rose to a spectacular number one place on reading lists worldwide, and made Claudia Gray a household name in Star Wars history. Following the story of two Imperial recruits, Thane Kyrell and Ciena Ree, it spans the course of thirty years as we follow these star-crossed lovers through some of Star Wars most famous scenes and battles. It is epic in its presentation, and not afraid to use main characters, like Darth Vader. Gray has a knack for writing Star Wars, and will continue her new-found fame in 2016 with New Republic: Bloodlines set in the Force Awakens era. Definitely read this book if you are a Star Wars fan. You will NOT regret it.
2.
Doctor Sleep by Stephen King
Picking up where the Shining left off, Doctor Sleep continues the story of the Torrance family through the eyes of an adult Danny. He is now a down-and-out addict with an uncanny resemblance to his father's behavior. Hopping a bus to New Hampshire, he finds himself embroiled in a deadly new game featuring the True Knot, a band of psychic vampires that prey on children. And now they are headed his way to claim the ultimate prize: a teenage girl with the Shining. With the ghosts of the Overlook still haunting him, Danny must become strong enough to defeat the True Knot and their leader, Rose. Gripping, scary, and a fun continuation of the classic King novel.
1.
Last year I began a year-long reading challenge that began in August 2015 and ends 2016. In last part of 2015 I read eighteen books. Some good, some bad, some amazing. But each one had a purpose that enriched my life in one way or another. These are the five books that most affected me in 2015 and their reviews can be found on this blog:
5.
This follow-up to the hit novel 9th Girl features the continuing story of Dana Nolan, sole survivor of a viscous serial killer. Damaged physically and mentally she embarks on a trip back to her hometown only to discover that a mystery long put to rest has resurfaced as women begin to be assaulted by a mysterious assailant. Who killed her best friend all those years ago? And is the same man back to take up his old habits? Filled with gut-wrenching tension, this novel takes a bold step in identifying and explaining what it is like to suffer from PTSD. The author also brings her own person story into the end of the book, offering websites and valuable information for those who suffer from trauma-based mental and physical illness. A triumphant novel with a heroine who is flawed and very brave. I loved this book.
4.
This 197os novel was a cultural phenomenon that sparked controversy, and led to the "scariest movie of all time". When I re-read this novel it had been about thirty years since I had picked up this tale. I chose the fortieth anniversary edition since it was fleshed out further, and some scenes had been changed for a more powerful affect. I read this simultaneously with the audiobook read by the author for the simple reason that he has to be the best narrators I have ever heard. And since he loves his characters, he added a depth to the written narrative that would have been lost by just reading the book. I read this around Halloween time, and it was a perfect chiller for that time of year.
3.
This young adult novel was released on Force Friday to little fanfare. It was then picked up by Star Wars fans, who suddenly realized they were reading one of the best Star Wars story ever written. It soon rose to a spectacular number one place on reading lists worldwide, and made Claudia Gray a household name in Star Wars history. Following the story of two Imperial recruits, Thane Kyrell and Ciena Ree, it spans the course of thirty years as we follow these star-crossed lovers through some of Star Wars most famous scenes and battles. It is epic in its presentation, and not afraid to use main characters, like Darth Vader. Gray has a knack for writing Star Wars, and will continue her new-found fame in 2016 with New Republic: Bloodlines set in the Force Awakens era. Definitely read this book if you are a Star Wars fan. You will NOT regret it.
2.
Picking up where the Shining left off, Doctor Sleep continues the story of the Torrance family through the eyes of an adult Danny. He is now a down-and-out addict with an uncanny resemblance to his father's behavior. Hopping a bus to New Hampshire, he finds himself embroiled in a deadly new game featuring the True Knot, a band of psychic vampires that prey on children. And now they are headed his way to claim the ultimate prize: a teenage girl with the Shining. With the ghosts of the Overlook still haunting him, Danny must become strong enough to defeat the True Knot and their leader, Rose. Gripping, scary, and a fun continuation of the classic King novel.
1.
Orhan's Inheritance by Aline Ohanesian
This was my number one book of 2015. It was Aline Ohanesian's debut novel that was captivating from page one, and filled with amazing character development. Ohanesian's narrative was a times poetic, presenting a heartbreaking tale with depth and charm. One of the best historical fiction books on the shelves today. Its depiction of the Armenian Genocide was vivid and sometimes graphic, bringing a realness to the story that was breathtaking. The character of Lucine will be with me for a very long time. And her courage is an inspiration to all. I cannot recommend this book enough! Amazing!
Have a Wonderful New Year!
Because there is always time to read,
Xepherus3
Xepherus3
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All written content (c) Copyright 2015 by Thomas Bahr II
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