Tag: Kate Quinn

Favorites of 2024: A Year in Books

2024 was chaotic, marked by a major home renovation that dominated the year. The first half was spent packing, and the second half saw demolition and construction—with rooms missing drywall, outlets, plumbing, and even floors. Amid the physical disorder, books became my refuge.

When the noise was too much, I put on my headphones and escaped into another world through audiobooks. At night, my Kindle offered a quieter way to unwind. I made it a goal to read at least one chapter before bed—sometimes two or three if the book was particularly gripping. Books not only filled my time but also provided stability and solace in a year of unpredictability.

Contemporary Fiction

Winner: Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt

I loved this book! The story is whimsical yet heartfelt, with unforgettable characters and poignant themes of connection and healing.

My Review of Remarkably Bright Creatures

Runner-Up: Hello Beautiful by Ann Napolitano

Another great story. A deeply emotional exploration of family dynamics and resilience, with beautifully drawn characters.

My Review of Hello Beautiful and Blog Discussion

Multigenerational Family

Winner: The Covenant of Water by Abraham Verghese

I love a good multigenerational story and this one did not disappoint! It’s a sweeping, heartfelt narrative that explored love, loss, and family through generations.

My Review of The Covenant of Water

Runner-Up: The Boston Girl by Anita Diamant

I had this one on my TBR list for too long! Thankfully the library book club pushed it up on my reading list. It’s a beautifully told story of a woman’s life, highlighting themes of resilience and self-discovery.

My Review of The Boston Girl

Grief and Reflection

The past few years have been marked by significant losses, and the stages of grief seemed to run into one another. I found it helpful to read or listen to how others have dealt with their own grief.

Although the stories I encountered were unique to each author, there was something universal in them—a shared understanding of loss and resilience that felt deeply comforting and affirming. These experiences profoundly influenced my reading choices.

Winner: Here After by Amy Lin

So good, I hope more people read this one. It’s a poignant and thought-provoking story that beautifully explores grief, love, and the life after losing a loved one.

My Review of Here After

Runner-Up: Nobody Will Tell You This But Me by Bess Kalb

I loved this one too. Kaib’s unique structure and emotional storytelling, offered a touching tribute to her grandmother and family bonds.

My Review of Nobody Will Tell You This But Me

Memoir

Memoirs became a significant part of my reading this year, thanks to the Minot-Sleeper Library’s Nonfiction book club. Their selections introduced me to incredible stories, some with a local connection, that I might not have discovered otherwise.

Winner: KooKooLand by Gloria Norris

This was a surprise – a pleasnat one at that! I had no idea what to expect from this book and found it to be a gritty and deeply moving account of family struggles, resilience, and survival.

My Review of KooKooLand  and Blog Discussion

Runner-Up: A House in the Sky by Amanda Lindhout

Another book that the library’s book club introduced me to was this gem. It’s a harrowing and inspiring memoir of resilience, survival, and the power of hope in the face of unimaginable adversity.

My Review of A House in the Sky

Nonfiction

Nonfiction became a rich and rewarding category for me this year, largely influenced by the Minot-Sleeper Library’s Nonfiction Book Club. Their selections introduced me to compelling narratives that balanced education with engaging storytelling.

Winner: The Underground Girls of Kabul by Jenny Nordberg

Another book which took me completely by surprise. This was a powerful exploration of gender and cultural identity in Afghanistan, I had not ever expected to read about. But very glad I did!

My Review of The Underground Girls of Kabul

Runner-Up: The Johnstown Flood by David McCullough

McCullough is a master at preseneting history in such an interesting and riveting manner. I found this book to be a vivid historical detail, so masterfully narrative that it brought this tragedy to life.

My Review of The Johnstown Flood and Blog Discussion

Historical Fiction

Winner: The Diamond Eye by Kate Quinn

This was a riveting blend of history and human drama, inspired by the true story of Lyudmila Pavlichenko, a Soviet sniper during World War II. Quinn’s vivid prose, meticulous research, and emotional depth brought both the brutality of war and the resilience of its protagonist to life.

My Review of The Diamond Eye

Runner-Up: Bel Canto by Ann Patchett

Patchett is a favorite of mine and I’m reading my way through all her book. This story is a beautifully written exploration of human connection during an extraordinary terrifying situation. Patchett’s immersive storytelling and complex, relatable characters made this a deeply emotional and unforgettable read.

My Review of Bel Canto

True Crime

True crime is a relatively new genre I have been exploring more and more as I’ve found it fascinating. Again, the Minot-Sleeper Library’s Nonfiction Book Club was a great source for me this year, introducing me to compelling narratives that blended history, mystery, and human psychology.

Winner: Cold Water Crossing by David Faxon

Wow! This is a gripping and atmospheric exploration of a historical true crime that keeps you on edge.

My Review of Cold Water Crossing and Blog Discussion

Runner-Up: The Art Thief by Michael Finkel

I find people to be so intersting at times. This book is a fascinating and intricate look into the world of art theft, blending true crime with cultural intrigue.

My review of The Art Thief

Mystery and Thrillers

Mysteries have always resonated with me, offering a perfect blend of intellectual engagement and entertainment. This year’s standout selections captured the layered storytelling and intriguing characters that make the genre so enjoyable.

Winner: Magpie Murders by Anthony Horowitz

I love a well-crafted mystery. Horowitz has cleverly layered storytelling with a mystery within a mystery, offering a fresh and engaging take on the genre.

My Review of Magpie Murders

Runner-Up: The Stillwater Girls by Minka Kent

When I was young I loved the thrill of a roller coaster. Now I love getting that thrill from a good thriller. This story is a gripping and atmospheric thriller with surprising twists and compelling characters. Buckle up!

My Review of The Stillwater Girls and Blog Discussion

Fantasy

Winner: The Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon

What a wonderful escape this book was! It has epic world-building, strong female characters, and a refreshing tone of hope. Everything an escapist would want in a story!

My Review of The Priory of the Orange Tree

Runner-Up: A Master of Djinn by P. Djèlí Clark

I adore the world-building of P. Djèlí Clark. His ability to create an inventive setting, cultural richness, and a perfect blend of magic and mystery knows no bounds.

My Review of The Master of Djinn and Blog Discussion

Science Fiction

Science fiction has always been a big love of mine, offering a unique blend of imagination and reflection on the future. With advancements in AI and robotics becoming both exciting and terrifying, these stories allow me to explore the possibilities and consequences of technology in ways that feel both thrilling and thought-provoking.

Winner: The Martian Chronicles by Ray Bradbury

Bradbury is one of my all-time favorite authors. I have been reading my way through the entire Ray Bradbury library. The Martian Chronicles is a timeless exploration of humanity through the lens of interplanetary colonization, blending science fiction with lyrical prose.

My Review of The Martian Chronicles

Runner-Up: AnnieBot by Sierra Greer

Why it stood out: A creative and engaging exploration of artificial intelligence and humanity, offering a fresh perspective on technology’s potential and ethical dilemmas.

My Review of AnnieBot

Classics 

I love revisiting the classics, reading some of the authors who were first introduced to me in school. Some of these works I’m encountering for the first time, while others I’m returning to—though I’ll admit, I didn’t always finish all my assignments back then! It’s fascinating to read them now and see which ones still hold up after all this time. These are the books that have truly earned their status as classics, resonating across generations with themes and prose that remain relevant and impactful.

Winner: A Moveable Feast by Ernest Hemingway

I didn’t read much Hemingway in school, maybe a short story or two, but never his novels. A Moveable Feast feels different from traditional fiction—more like an autobiography that offers a deeply personal and evocative glimpse into his life in 1920s Paris. Its nostalgic reflections on art, relationships, and the literary world make it an insightful and enriching read.

My Review of A Moveable Feast

Particularly Good on Audio

Sorry for Your Loss by Michael Cruz Kayne

I started the second day of the new year reflecting the first anniversary of my father’s death by listening to this amazing audiobook, which turned out to be a deeply moving and humorous exploration of grief, blending personal anecdotes with larger reflections on loss and resilience. Its excellent narration made it an unforgettable listening experience.

My Review of Sorry For Your Loss

The Covenant of Water by Abraham Verghese

This epic of a story was certainly enhanced by the narration by the author, it added an authentic and intimate layer to a sweeping and heartfelt narrative.

My Review of The Covenant of Water

The Miranda Obsession by Jen Silverman

I ended my year with this unique and captivating listening experience that brought the mysterious and poignant story to life. When I worked at two radio stations in my twenties, my Program Director described radio as the ultimate “theater of the mind.” Visuals can distract, but when you get someone to listen, their imagination creates something far more powerful. This audiobook captures that essence beautifully, making it an unforgettable experience.

My Review of The Miranda Obsession

Overall Favorite of the Year

Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt

This novel is a poignant and beautifully written story with unforgettable characters. The kind of book that stays with you long after you’ve finished, leaving you missing the characters as if they were old friends.

My Review of Remarkably Bright Creatures

Closing The Chapter on 2024

As I reflect on my 2024 reading journey, I’m reminded of how books have the power to provide refuge, inspiration, and insight during life’s most chaotic and transformative moments. From deeply moving tales of resilience and connection to immersive explorations of history, science fiction, and human creativity, this year’s reads have been nothing short of transformative.

If you’re a fellow book lover, I hope my favorites spark your curiosity and encourage you to explore new stories that resonate with you. And if you’ve read any of these titles—or have recommendations for me—I’d love to hear your thoughts. Let’s celebrate the joy of reading together and look forward to another year of incredible stories in 2025!

My Year of Books 2024

All the artwork by Xine Segalas

2022 Best Books Read in Review

Despite 2022 being a bit of a tough year for me, it had its highlights too. The high for me was publishing my memoir – Xine’s Pack of Strays & Others, and having my father read the book. The lows – there were a few, including two deaths. My ex-husband and father of my two children died suddenly of a massive heart attack in June. And for a good part of the year, my father was battling congestive heart disease and was in and out of the hospital, having stent procedures and mitral valve clips inserted…He spent most of December in the hospital and was released into home hospice six days before passing away peacefully on Jan. 2, 2023. It was not a great way to end or start a year.

I put many of my books in the Marleywood little library for which I am the steward.

Throughout last year, I was able to rely on books to help take my mind off my troubles and escape into some other world and someone else’s life. A few years ago, I decided to turn off the TV and read and listen to books more. Since then, I have increased my reading goals, expanded my interests in topics and genres, and achieved my reading goals. I read an increasing number of physical books, eighteen books last year which made up 24% of the total number of books I read. Have really enjoyed my physical book selections which many were suggested by my Literati Book Club which sadly is no longer operating and my Book of the Month Club membership. Both clubs have introduced me to wonderful author and stories. Many of the books I read were based off recommendations from friends and family, including my Dad. I read The Rose Code because I saw that he was reading it. I’ll miss being able to talk about books with Dad.

I also read faster than I used to, proving that my English teachers were correct and that my reading would improve with practice. Too bad it took me so long to listen to them. Better late than never; you are never too old to start something new. I love curling up on the couch with the dogs, bookending me as I lose myself in a book. I’ve also started to read more on my Kindle again this year.

I love statistics – I think it may be a family thing. This is one of the reasons I love using the Goodreads website and joining their annual Reading Challenge since they tell you how many pages you read and all sorts of stats about the books you read during the year. For instance, I surpassed my goal of 57 books by reading 75 books – 129% of my goal! The shortest book was Lying at 47 pages, and the longest was The Rose Code at 624 pages. You can visit my author profile by following this link.

When I started on the Goodreads website a few years ago, I would rate a book simply by assigning a star rating. But I realized as I aged and read more and more that I would sometimes forget why I liked or disliked a particular book. So, I decided to start writing book reviews as a writing exercise and a memory one.

My average rating for 2022 was 3.5 
13 books rated 5 stars   (17%)
33 books rated 4 stars   (33%)
12 books rated 3 stars   (16%)
15 books rated 2 stars   (20%)
  3 books rated 1 star      (4%)

My 2022 Five Star list (in the order read during the year)

The Namesake by Jhumpa Lahiri is a moving story about family and the power of the names we give our children.

Unleashed: Poems by Writers’ Dogs by Amy Hempel and Jim Shepard – a humorous and heartwarming poetry collection dedicated to our dogs.

A Three Dog Life by Abigail Thomas – A powerful memoir that blew me away

The Tell-Tale Heart by Edgar Allen Poe – Classic collection of stories

Cat’s Cradle by Kurt Vonnegut – Another classic that still holds the test of time.

The Signature of All Things by Elizabeth Gilbert – fascinating historical fiction rich with character

The Power of Neuroplasticity by Shad Helmstetter – Scientific stuff broken down to easily understand

My Sister, The Serial Killer by Oyinkan Braithwaite– powerful novella packs a punch!

Verity by Colleen Hoover – Late to the game in getting to know Colleen Hoover – I became an instant fan after this book!

The Dictionary of Lost Words by Pip Williams – I loved this so much about this book.

The Rose Code by Kate Quinn – Awesome historical fiction about Bletchley Park masterfully told.

The Reading List by Sara Nisha Adams  – An unforgettable story about family, community, and grief

Jollof Rice and Other Revolutions by Ogunyemi Omolola Ijeoma

I realized that I have never explained my criteria for rating books, so I have separated my Rating Criteria into a post describing how I arrive at my star rating, which I include in my Goodreads and Amazon reviews of books and audiobooks.

Overall, I read a bunch of books which I really enjoyed. Learned about some authors that I was unfamiliar with, became a big fan and look forward to read more from them. Our lives are inundated with reading this, that and the other thing in quick snippets everyday thanks to the internet and social media. attention spans are shortening. Which is why disconnecting from all that noise and diving into a book feels so good.

Enjoy your reading!

April Reads and Listens

April was a full month where I was able to add four more books to the Read category getting closer to my goal of 58 books for the year. I am currently at 27 books completed. This month I read two fantastic books and two lesser so. I started the month off listening to The Extraordinary Life of Sam Hell. I saw the title on my Goodreads feed because a friend of mine had read and liked it; so I thought I would give it a try.

The Extraordinary Life of Sam Hell by Robert Dugoni
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I really liked this book and thought that it was a touching story about a catholic family and their ‘extraordinary” son, Sam. From the moment I started listening to the book, I was absorbed in the world of Sam, his parents, and his friends, Ernie and Mickey. Each character is well-developed and well-rounded and adds their own spark to the story.
This book is the story of a boy who spends his life being judged by appearance. Unfortunately, our society continues to look too much at the shell and not remember it’s what’s inside that makes us who we really are.
“Our skin, our hair, and our eyes are simply the shell that surrounds our soul, and our soul is who we are. What counts is on the inside.”
I highly recommend this book – it’s a great story that the author also narrates wonderfully as well.

I always find it difficult to follow up on a book that I have really liked. I tend to switch genres completely and often I will fall back on short stories. I decided to to go this route after having finished The Extraordinary Life of Sam Hell. I turned to a collection by one of my all-time favorite authors, Neil Gaiman.

Trigger Warning: Short Fictions and Disturbances by Neil Gaiman
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I listened to the audiobook version, which was only available through my audiobooks.com account, and it did not allow me to view the chapters at all if I wanted. The book starts with a long foreward by Gaiman, where he gives a little background about each story. To his credit, he mentions that the listener may want to jump ahead, but I decided to listen anyway. I’m not sure how far into the foreward I was when I started to think about jumping ahead to the stories, realizing that I would only be able to jump away in small 15-second increments. So I continued to listen.

The short stories in this collection range from chilling and scary to sad and sentimental, many of which had been published before. There are several homages to some literary influences of Gaiman’s from Sherlock Holmes in ‘The Case of Death and Honey’ to ‘The Man who forgot Ray Bradbury.’ Then there is the tribute to Doctor Who in the story ‘Nothing O’Clock,’ which I enjoyed despite never having seen any Doctor Who before. There is also a nob to David Bowie in ‘Kether and Malkuth’. The collection wraps up with a short story called ‘Black Dog,’ which features Shadow Moon, the protagonist from Gaiman’s American Gods novel.

‘The Truth is a Cave in the Black Mountains’
‘Nothing O’Clock’
‘Kether to Malkuth’
‘Orange’
‘A Calendar of Tales’
‘The Man Who Forgot Ray Bradbury’
‘An Invocation of Incuriosity’
‘The Case of Death and Honey’
‘Pearls’
‘Black Dog’

Overall, I liked this collection, but it was not one of my favorites, so I was also disappointed. I am a huge fan of Neil Gaiman’s and a big fan of short stories, so I felt this collection fell short.

A good book for a long drive

I found myself wondering where to turn my attention next. I had a long 8-hour plus drive that I would have to contend with and I really needed to pick a good book for the drive. As I looked over my TBR list, I came across a book that I put on the list after having seen the book on my father’s coffee table last summer, The Rose Code by Kate Quinn. I thought this might be a good pick since I could possibly talk about the book with my dad when I was visiting with him that weekend. The long drive down to Connecticut was to see my father and celebrate Greek Easter with my family whom I hadn’t seen since last July.

The Rose Code by Kate Quinn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

From the moment I started listening to this book, I was sucked down the rabbit hole! This is the first book I have read of Kate Quinn’s and it will not be the last. The Rose Code is a masterful piece of historical fiction based around the real men and women Enigma code-breakers who worked at Bletchley Park in the English countryside during World War II.


The story revolves around three young women from different backgrounds called to Bletchley Park to serve their country by cracking codes and keeping secrets. Quinn didn’t write just one heroine but she wrote about three of them. Three strong women who I came to care very deeply about their story.


The narrator, Saskia Maarleveld, does a fantastic job of bringing to life all of the characters of which there are quite a few.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical fiction, mystery, and espionage stories.

How Do You Follow Up a 5 Star Book?

Twice in one month, I found myself having to figure out how to follow up a great book. So I pivoted to a book that I knew one of my nieces had read and thought from the cover it might be a good change of pace.

My Year of Rest and Relaxation by Ottessa Moshfegh
My rating: 1 of 5 stars

I did not enjoy this book and only managed to finish it because it was short, and I was waiting to see if there was a point or climax – which never came. The depression that the main character is dealing with is conveyed in the writing style, but the main character wasn’t someone you come to care about. I don’t enjoy books where the protagonist is a narcissist. I felt bad for and cared more about her friend, Reva. The only good thing about the book was the narrator, Julia Whelan, does a good job bringing the characters to life.

Not a great book to end the month, but not all books can be winners. The important thing is to keep on reading. Currently, I am reading Smile: The Story of a Face by Sarah Ruhl. I’ve been bad about reading my physical books lately because I have been painting, drawing, driving, and listening to my audiobooks. My Literati club books are piling up, with the latest one coming in There, There by Tommy Orange, which I am only 10 pages into. I didn’t mean to start it, but I began to peruse upon opening the box, which led me to read a bit.

There is also a stack 3 feet high ( I am not exaggerating) sitting on my file cabinet of books waiting to be read. I can’t help myself around books sometimes. I just love books. I remember the old days of hanging out in bookstores. I would spend hours in the stacks of books, particularly if they had cozy chairs and spaces for you to hang out and check out the selections more thoroughly. Those were the old days, though. Today I purchase books via my Literati book club or the Book of the Month Club or Amazon. There was a small independent bookstore in my old hometown that I would frequent, but there isn’t one near me where I live now. Now I share the books I have read with my community via the Marleywood Little Free Library, where I am the steward.

If you have any book recommendations, please leave me a comment. I am always looking for new book ideas. Happy reading.