I haven’t finished a book I felt could use a full review since my last review, so instead today I’m talking about 3 books I’m currently work my way through. Here’s the latest picks from my TBR pile:
Arena by Holly Jennings.
One of my recent NetGalley grabs. It tells the story of Kali, a competitor in the virtual gladiator-like RAGE tournaments. Mix war games with the Matrix, and turn it YA, you might end up with this. I’m not quite halfway through yet, so I haven’t gotten to the sinister twist that I’m sure is coming (it is filed under dystopia on Goodreads, after all). Right now gamer lifestyle is just like LA lifestyle: unhealthy with fame and drugs, but that’s what they sign up for. It’s… ok, so far. Not terrible, not great. I’m just at the point where things are getting interesting, though, so here’s hoping.
Stars: Looking like this will be a 3/5 but we’ll see.
Seveneves by Neal Stephenson.
I’ve had this book (the actual, physical hardback book) for awhile, but hadn’t gotten around to starting it until a few days ago. It’s just so BIG. And the pages are super thin paper, and the type isn’t all that large, so it’s even LONGER than you would think. That aside, it sounds intriguing. Eons-spanning science fiction epic? Yes, please. The world is ending, and humanity makes a last hail Mary for survival, shunting the chosen to far outer space. Five thousand years and some genetic changes later, they’re coming back. Awesome premise, yes? I really just need to buckle down and dive into this.
Stars: Far too soon to tell.
The Shadow Cabinet (Shades of London #3) by Maureen Johnson.
I’m finally catching up with this series. I really enjoyed the first two books, and I remember the 2nd book ended on a bit of a heartbreaking cliffhanger, so we’ll see if I can pick up the thread of events again after such a long break. I quite liked Rory as a narrator, and am looking forward to the nice blend of snark, mystery and ghosts in this one, too.
Stars: just picked up from library yesterday, but if it follows the rest of the series, 4/5.
I also picked up some audiobooks for my upcoming roadtrip to South Carolina. I’ll be listening to Fates and Furies by Lauren Groff, and Steelheart by Brandon Sanderson. I may need to pick up one more; it’s a long drive there and back. But for a good cause! (sister’s baby shower)
Any recommendations for a final audiobook to add to the list?
