Beautiful World, Where Are You? by Sally Rooney
I have been meaning to read this ever since it came out in 2021. While I know some people struggle with the way Sally Rooney’s books are written (there are no quotation marks for dialogue), I really enjoy it. I like that it’s different, even to the point that Sally writes flawed characters very well. They float between tension and annoyance and vulnerability as the novel explores relationships and politics to the smallest detail. However, it does mean that I didn’t “enjoy” the story, as I struggled to relate to any of the four main characters, but again, I think it’s admirable to write like this and to present something that feels so real. 3.5 stars.
Fast Like a Girl by Dr. Mindy Pelz
When I first began this book, I was worried it would be too complicated. It explains the science behind intermittent fasting and how that correlates to a woman’s cycle, as many women try to intermittent fast but don’t get the results they want. As someone who intermittent fasts, I was very interested to see if I would find this helpful. Which I did! I really enjoyed reading this book, especially the more practical aspects where she gives you ideas of how to help your body during each part of your cycle. I haven’t committed fully to her idea, but it is something I am wanting to try at least for a couple of months to see if I feel better. 4 stars.
Writers and Lovers by Lily King
I read this a couple of years ago and loved it and recently wanted to reread. Any novel that centres on writing interests me, and this one did not disappoint. Some of the story was grittier than I would normally enjoy; the protagonist’s mother has recently died, she’s in a lot of debt and has a job she doesn’t enjoy and isn’t treated well, and there’s a romantic plot weaved throughout and you don’t know where it’ll end up. She also has health issues, but living in America there’s the difficulty of financial stress in with that as well. But it’s such a satisfying novel to read and I love how Lily King has written the story. 4.5 stars.
Sarah xx
the softest words 