Here at Chapter Break, we don’t always write a full review of every book we read. Well, now we decided to do these monthly wrap-up posts with roundups of our reviews this month and mini-reviews to fill in the gaps. Enjoy!
Technically I have full reviews for 4 books so there’s nothing more from me this month.
Lessons in Chemistry: I’m not really sure why I thought this was a romance? Or why Goodreads has it tagged as such? While yes, there is some romance, the main focus is really Elizabeth Zott’s love for science. And the misogyny and society that stands in the way in the 1950s & 1960s. Some scenes are difficult to listen to, and really got me fired up to punch some of the characters! I’m talking to you, Ms. Frisk. I appreciated how the science was not too above my head while listening. As well as how science is applied to cooking. Young Madeline is precocious and adorable. I adored the chapters narrated by 630 (the dog!). The rowing scenes make me miss my rowing classes. Might have to find a new class! My only issue is there were some plot lines left dangling at the end. Otherwise eye-opening read about female scientists and the struggles they went through to be recognized.
Modigliani Scandal: I really should have noticed the ‘originally published in 1976’ portion of this book. But instead I noticed the audio publication date 2016. I’d say the internet and cell phones would make most of this plot moot. Like other Follet books, this has a number of characters where the reader wonders how they are interconnected. But then all is revealed! Honestly, this was ok – nothing to shout about. Nor complain about. Audio narration was also nothing to write home about. If you like art heists, forgery, and deception, and don’t mind some dated plot lines, you might want to check this out.
The League of Gentlewomen Witches: More witching and less pirating in this one. But still just as enjoyable! Also a lot more blushing and sex. (Not outright sex. But more dancing around the sex.) What I appreciated most is how Alex and Charlotte really balance each other as a couple. I also really enjoyed Bixby the butler! I switched to audio for this book, and Elizabeth Knowelden does an excellent job with this one. Overall a delightful listen full of adventure and romance. And no freckles!
Books we reviewed this month:
- [2 Oct] A Time to Fly! by Diann Floyd Boehm, Nancy Hoover ★★★★
- [13 Oct] The Covey Jencks Mysteries: Love And Murder Deep In The Heart Of Texas by Shelton L. Williams ★★★★
- [18 Oct] Beasts of the Earth Book Blog Tour, Review, and #Giveaway #LoneStarLit
- [18 Oct] Beasts of the Earth by James Wade ★★★★★
I’m new to your blog (from monthly wrap up) and enjoyed poking around and see what you do. How fun (and helpful) to have a partner! Hope you guys have a chance to read lots more fun books in November.
Terrie @ Bookshelf JOurneys