I read the first Maze Runner book a good few months ago and for some reason it was only this month I picked up the rest of the series. Unlike a lot of similar teen dystopian series, The Maze Runner Trilogy didn’t leave me with that feeling of disappointment and frustration (Divergent, I’m looking at you), the three books flowed well and I really became attached to the characters. If you haven’t read the first book, I don’t really think I can go too much into the story without ruining it but if you’re like me and love a bit of teen fiction, it’s definitely a series to read.
Daughter - Jane Shemilt
I love a thriller and Daughter seems to be the thriller of the moment. The story is told from mum, Jenny’s point of view as she sees her perfect family break apart after her teenage daughter disappears. It’s full of the usual twists along with the usual revaluation that her perfect family is not as perfect as it seems. Although I was quite surprised at the ending it just doesn’t stand out from the other thrillers I’ve read recently.
The Mangle Street Murder - M. R. C. Kasasian
Set in the 1880s, Sindney Grice and March Middleton take on the pre-Holmes and Watson detective duo to solve a murder. The relationship between the characters is hilarious and the story is gripping but stays light enough that it’s still funny throughout. I really enjoyed this book, it’s one not to take too seriously, it’s almost like a humorous take on Sherlock Holmes but it’s quirky and fun.
If I Stay - Gayle Forman
Mia has a lot to love in life. She is a cellist who could be on her way to Julliard. She has a wonderful, loving, and supportive family. And she has a boyfriend who is perfect. But as wonderful as Mia's life is, she has choices to make. Should she go to Julliard and leave everyone behind?
When a terrible accident occurs, Mia suddenly finds herself with only one choice left - should she stay?
Oh lordy, this was an emotional book. I was completely in love with the characters - even the relationship between Adam and Mia (I normally hate overzealous relationships depicted in teen fiction). I was completely sucked in to this story - it’s definitely one to read.
Filth - Irvine Welsh
Following Welsh’s typical style, Detective Sergeant Bruce Robertson is a repulsive and corrupt police officer in Edinburgh. Filth is equally disgusting and brilliant. I found Trainspotting quite hard to read (despite people in area actually speaking like Renton, Spud and Sick Boy), but I had no trouble with Filth - it still uses the local dialect but it’s definitely a lot more toned down. I’m looking forward to reading more Irvine Welsh books, I have no idea how it’s taken me as long to see the fascination with him.
