One of the downsides of reading ebooks is I often pick up a book or start reading a book without realizing the length of the book. I had this problem this month. I started The Goldfinch and after a few days of reading, I realized I was in for the long haul. Soooo I only read three books this month. Here's the reviews!
Write. Publish. Repeat. by Sean Platt & Johnny B. Truant - Let me start this review by pointing out that I am listener to the Self-Publishing Podcast by Sean, Dave, and Johnny for the past year or so. Therefore, I have heard much of Write. Publish. Repeat before on the podcast and so I found most of the book to be a summary of the best tactics and strategies of the past year from the podcast. But, I still found value in the book as a podcast listener. The detail on funnels, email marketing, and story beats was good. If I hadn't been a listener, I'm sure the book would be much more valuable to me. Also, I enjoyed the laid back voice of the book, much different than your typical nonfiction books. 5 out of 7 stars.
The Final Formula by Becca Andre - If I had one word to describe this book, it would be fun. The plot revolves an alchemist's search to figure out how she lost her memory in an explosion and why. The book is filled with humor and characters who love to poke fun at one another. If I could improve one aspect, it would be to improve the world building to explain the magic, elements, and alchemists more clearly. But if you are looking for a fun book with plot twists, humor, and mystery, it's well worth a read. 5 out of 7 stars.
The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt - I wish I could say I loved this book. I feel like I should because the literary critics loved it, but mostly I am disappointed by the book. Tartt's writing and prose is absolutely beautiful, but after the first 100 pages I found myself skimming for action. The book is about Theo, a young teenager who loses his mother tragically. The story follows his search for meaning and life after the loss. As the story progresses (very slowly I might add), I grow more and more detached from Theo as a reader. I want to like him, but it's hard. So even though the writing is stunning, I give this four stars for it's inability to keep me engaged.