April 15, 2024

First Quarter Favorites of 2024

 


Edit: Oops. I accidentally included Demon Copperhead in this post when it should actually go on next quarter's list.

Welcome to a new feature on my blog. I noticed a few people sharing their quarterly favorites (on Instagram) and decided to do the same. It might be helpful at the end of the year when it's time for me to compile my "Best of 2024" list.

Demon Copperhead 5/5

The Plot 4.5/5

Since We Fell 5/5

Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow 4.5/5

Small Mercies 4.5/5

The Comforts of Home 4.5/5

The Weight of Silence 4.5/5

The Soul of Discretion 4.5/5

18 comments:

  1. I like this feature! Demon Copperhead is the only one of these I've read... thought it was excellent. The Plot is on my list for the summer. I plan to do a first half favorites list at the end of June.

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    1. JoAnn, I have a feeling you're going to really enjoy The Plot! Great summer/beach read. The two stand alones by Dennis Lehane were exceptionally good. He's a very good writer.

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    2. I've been meaning to try one of his books for years! Any recommendations?

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    3. I loved his Kenzie/Gennaro series, but it's been years since I read those. I'd say either Since We Fell or Small Mercies would be great choices.

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  2. I get the Best ideas from you and JoAnn :-) Of those books I have onnly read The Plot. Hope you got my email about doing a buddy read with Pilcher's book September. Absolution is next and then The Great Divide by Cristina Henriquez.

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    1. Thanks, Tina! I'll have to see about The Great Divide. I'm excited about the other two reads!

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  3. I like seeing your list of favorites of the quarter. I rely on you and my other blogger friends to keep me up-to-date on the best books.

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    1. Thanks so much for your kind words of encouragement, Deb!

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  4. Such a good crop of books! 2 Susan Hills; I keep saying I need to read her books every time you mention how good they are.

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    1. Helen, be sure to read them in order!! Not just to prevent reading spoilers, but you'll probably be confused if you read the later installments first. So many changes in the characters' personal lives...

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  5. You have a strong line-up of books here and Dennis Lehane will be pleased ha. I guess he writes for a TV series now called Black Bird but I have not seen it. I have read 4 of these. Kingsolver's is a powerful journey.

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    1. Yes, Lehane and Hill should be very pleased. ;) Thanks for the reminder of Black Bird. I need to check out that show!

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  6. I'm way behind in Susan Hill's Simon Serrailer series and need to catch up as I always enjoy them.

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    1. Jenclair, they really are very good. I'll be sorry when I catch up.

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  7. I love the idea of adding a “Quarterly Best” to your blog! It’s good for a reference, but also nice to add new features from time to time. You know I’ll probably copy you at some point. 🤭

    I picked up Demon Copperhead for the “retelling/adaptation” category of a library prize I wanted to earn. (Yes, like a third grader!) I saw that it was compared to Dickens’ book David Copperfield, though knowing Kingsolver’s work, I’m sure it will thoroughly cover poverty and woe. Yet, didn’t Dickens do that for his time, too? Anyway, so glad to know that it’s a five for you. I’m looking forward to opening it.

    I have never read, or even heard of, Susan Hill. But again, her books are on your list, I’m sure they’re good. Dennis LeHane is awesome. My favorite remains Shutter Island. I never saw the film, but I’ll never forget the book.

    So good to blog with you again, dear Lesley, thanks!

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    1. Meredith, it was also good to have something to post since we've been traveling (and I haven't been reading as much as usual). Feel free to copy this quarterly best post any time!

      I'll be eager to hear your thoughts on Demon Copperhead. I'm hoping to listen to David Copperfield later this year. Or maybe I'll read the print edition. I haven't decided yet, but I do want to read it.

      Ah, Susan Hill's mystery series is very good. If you do decide to give the books a try, be sure to star with the first installment. There are so many developments in the main characters' lives... I agree that Lehane is awesome. The newer books of his were so entertaining!

      Good to blog with you again, too! xoxo

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  8. Good list, and it's a good idea to review what you've been reading. I should follow your good example (but probably won't).
    best, mae at maefood.blogspot.com

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    1. Thanks, Mae. I spotted this quarterly post idea on Instagram and thought it would be a great way to keep track of my favorite reads. I've had a good year, thus far!

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