My Week in Books // 8-25-21

The first week back to school is in the books, and I feel so lonely without my kiddos in the house with me all day. We switched school districts this year so we’re definitely adjusting more than we’re used to, but the change has been good and I’m so happy to see my kids thriving, instead of simply surviving, again! My daughter has her first volleyball game with her new team and school tomorrow…she’s excited, and I’m nervous!

*** Falling by T.J. Newman

I personally fell into this book very quickly and didn’t come up for air until the last page. Newman totally took on a new twist to teh whole hijacked airplane trope and added a new twist that I was actually terrified of! Seeing how Newman is an ex-flight attendant herself, she was able to provide some insider information that lent to the credibility and suspense in a whole different way!

Also, if I’m being honest, this could have been a totally different experience had I read it prior to the horrific incident that is currently taking place in Afghanistan (Aug 2021). Without giving away any specific spoilers, some of the commentary really made me evaluate my own complicity and understanding of the US’s position in Afghanistan.

*** We Are the Brennans by Tracey Lange

I absolutely loved everything about this book – a strong contender for my final Top 10 List at the end of the year!

Five years ago, the Brennan’s are left hanging in confusion as the only daughter, Sunday, packs her bags and leaves for California with no explanation. She leaves behind her fiancé and familial responsiblities. When the phone rings one night, Denny heads to California to retrieve his sister after she has a drunk driving accident. Her return to New York sets the family ablaze and the long buried secrets begin to bubble to the surface. It’s complicated and dramatic and the writing is outstanding. I loved the characters and all of their messiness. I loved the pacing and how the secrets brought all the pain and confusion of the past five years to full circle and, ultimately, the whole disaster had a totally satisfying ending for me.

The blurb mentions Ask Again, Yes vibes and I agree. I’d also add The Most Fun We Ever Had and Olympus, Texas.

(#partner #freebooks: All books noted by asterisks (***) indicate I received the book for free from the publisher, the author, or another promotional company to review. All opinions are my own.)