May Reading Round-Up

The Cloisters by Katy Hays

4 stars

Firstly, isn't this one of the most gorgeous and intricate covers you've ever seen? It perfectly pulls on the themes of the book: divination, tarot cards, horticulture, death, deception and intrigue. I listened to this as an audiobook, but after seeing the cover had to get myself a paperback copy too. The Cloisters gave me The Secret History vibes with its academic obsession and cult-like characters and relationships, with a fascinating setting and plot to accompany it.

The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V.E. Schwab

5 stars

This book was on my TBR for such a long time and I’m both annoyed with myself I took so long to get round to it and happy I’ve finally read it. WHAT A BOOK! This one did not disappoint and definitely lived up to the hype for me. The story is set across 300 years and follows the life of Addie LaRue, a French girl that in her most desperate time of need (she doesn’t want to be forced into marriage) she prays to the wrong God and makes a deal with the devil. It is gut wrenchingly beautiful and the setting, plot, characters and pacing were all spot on for me. An easy 5 star.

You can watch the video review I posted to Instagram here.

Go Tell It on the Mountain by James Baldwin

3.5 stars

Having never read any of James Baldwin's work before, I wasn't sure what to expect with this, his first novel and honestly, probably wouldn't have thought to read it if it wasn't for a small 'political' book club I'm part of. Go Tell It on the Mountain is a semi-autobiographical novel set in 1930s Harlem, telling the story of teenager John Grimes and his grappling journey with spirituality, sexuality and where he fits in this violent world.

TW: racism, death, suicide, domestic violence, abuse, violence.