April Wrap-Up 2015

Before looking back on what I read this month, I felt like I had not had a great reading month and was a bit disappointed because I didn't get to everything on my TBR. But I realized I read 7 things and considering there were some longer books stacked in, I'm quite happy about the progress I made. :)
(Most of the star ratings are linked to a separate view for each book)

1. The Cake Therapist - Judith Fertig

****I read this as an ARC because it sounded right up my alley and it totally was! A light, fun read centering on cake with doses of magical realism sprinkled in was the perfect way to start the month.

2. Jo's Boys (Little Women #3) - Louisa May Alcott

***The final book that follows the March family was my least favorite of the three but still a pleasant read. I had fallen for these characters since the original so my enjoyment was purely from being in their world.

3. Pluto: A Wonder Story - R.J. Palacio

***I'm continuing to read the ebook novellas the author releases for this series. This followed Auggie's best friend since childhood, Chris, and his perspective on Auggie's situation as well as his own issues. An enjoyable addition to the other books and is definitely a series all kids should read.

4. The Emperor of All Maladies: A Biography of Cancer - Siddhartha Mukherjee

****An intimidating book based on it's size and scientific subject matter, but wow, was I surprised. I learned so much about cancer and truly feel more confident in discussing it. I have a whole new understanding of the disease and I'm very interested to learn more.

5. Deadly Class, Vol.1: Reagan Youth - Remender, Craig, Loughridge

****Super fun and twisted graphic novel following our main character who ends up in a school for assassins. The art style wasn't my favorite but the colors were wonderful and the characters were the strongest part of the story.

6. A Feast for Crows (A Song of Ice & Fire #4) - George R. R. Martin

***Least favorite of the series so far but I enjoyed it a lot more than I expected. I thought the new characters brought fresh, interesting perspectives to the world and Brienne really stepped up to become one of my favorite characters. Cersei was a big letdown for me, but the ending got me so pumped to read the next book.

7. The Dovekeepers - Alice Hoffman

****This was an incredibly emotional book. I didn't cry but my heart just hurt reading this story. Based on true events during the First Jewish-Roman war, we follow four women as they try to protect themselves and their families from the incoming Roman army, their own people, the land they live on, and their futures. Heartbreaking, but incredibly beautiful writing.

A diverse month for reading which I hope to continue in the future.