I have managed to read 13 books in May (including finishing off my reread of LOTR), and I have honestly enjoyed them all. There have been some real stand-outs this month, and plenty that are likely to end up on my Top Reads of 2021 list! Here’s a quick summary, with links to my full reviews where relevant.
Mrs Death Misses Death by Salena Godden (2021)
Mrs Death Misses Death is such a special book. I think it is one of those works that will mean different things to different people – it is a generous book that leaves space for the reader, as well as being a linguistically dazzling novel that pushes the boundaries of the form. You can read my full review here.
Fridge by Emma Zadow (2021)
The first playscript I have reviewed on my blog! Fridge is an original, engaging work, and reading it was almost as good as visiting the theatre! You can read my full review here.
Yes Yes More More by Anna Wood (2021)
I absolutely loved this vibrant, joyful short story collection – it is bright and bold and full of energy. I highly recommend getting your hands on this one. My full review of this brilliant book is here.
The Lamplighters by Emma Stonex (2021)
I’m so pleased I managed to make time for this gorgeous book this month. It’s not only a physical thing of beauty, it also combines stunning prose with a gripping story, making for an almost perfect reading experience. I highly recommend it! My full review of The Lamplighters is here.
Mrs Narwhal’s Diary by S.J. Norbury (2021)
This is a lovely, gentle book, full of humour and surprisingly poignant truths, especially about the nature of long term relationships. And Rose is a new favourite character of mine! My full review is here.
100neHundred by Laura Besley (2021)
This is a stunning micro-fiction collection – each story is exactly 100 words long, and these bite-sized pieces back a real punch! The whole spectrum of human emotion is represented. A wonderful book. My review is here.
Catch The Rabbit by Lana Bastasic (2021)
I was blown away by this fiercely original novel, which has been translated into English by the author. You NEED to meet Sara and Lejla! You can read my full thoughts on this brilliant book here.
Still Life by Sarah Winman (2021)
I knew I was going to love this book, and I was not disappointed for a second. Still Life is going to be right up there with my top reads of 2021. Don’t miss it! My full review of this gorgeous book is here.
The Five by Hallie Rubenhold (2019)
I read this book along with our ‘book club that isn’t a book club’ – I’d been meaning to get around to it for a while, so it was great to finally find an excuse. It is a staggering piece of non-fiction, reclaiming the narrative for the victims of Jack the Ripper, recreating their stories and shining a light on the brutal choices they faced as women in an unforgiving era. I’ll hopefully get a full review of The Five up soon.
The Big Four by Agatha Christie (1927)
I’m working my way through the Poirot books, along with some friends from The Write Reads, and it was nice to return to a novel after last month’s short stories. I enjoyed The Big Four – there was a surprising ‘international man of mystery’ vibe that I haven’t come across in the Poirot novels yet, and I liked the global conspiracy aspect! Hastings really does annoy me, though, his poor wife! Lots of fun reading this one, looking forward to the next installment!
The Stranding by Kate Sawyer (2021)
This is SUCH a good book – I read it in one sitting, and absolutely loved it. Original, moving, unexpected, and above all, beautifully written. Definitely one to pre-order. You can read my full review here.
Gold Fury by Kieren Westwood (2020)
My second flash fiction book of the month, Gold Fury is a wonderful novella-in-flash that has a True Detective/Fargo type vibe, taking you on a whirlwind journey as the pieces of various criminal activities gradually slot together. I’ll have a full review up on the blog this week – look out for it!
The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien (1954)
I’ve been rereading this along with some friends from The Write Reads, and I have finally finished! It has been an utter joy to revisit Middle Earth. The sheer scope of Tolkien’s imagination never ceases to astound me. We’ve buddy-watched the first two films, as well, and I am looking forward to finishing up with the film of The Return of the King!
It really has been a cracking month for reading. I’ve felt as if I’ve been on a winning streak, with cracking read after cracking read, and it has been really nice to be a bit more flexible and mood read more than I usually do. I hope you’ve had a great reading month, too – do let me know what you’ve enjoyed this month!
Happy reading!
Ellie x
Elspells 