Book 10, 2012 - The Buffalo Soldier by Chris Bohjalian

I've had this book on my shelf for awhile, picked up at a rummage sale solely because I dig Bojhalian's writing style.  Usually he has a big plot twist toward the end of his books, which kept my stomach in knots over the last 1/3 of the book.  That said, this was not, for me, one of my favorites.  This book took a long time to develop, and then when it did, I found I didn't really care what happened.  Hmmmm.  Regardless, I will continue to seek out his work as I do enjoy his writing, and he does write about topics I don't always know a lot about.  True statement:  I didn't know what a Buffalo Soldier was until I read this book.  So, I guess I'm more enlightened for having picked it up anyway!

Did I like it?  It was *ok*.  Would I recommend it?  Perhaps-- especially for prospective foster parents, sure.  Rating?  2.5 out of 5.

Book 9, 2012 - The Girl in the Green Raincoat by Laura Lippman

Admission:  I picked a super-short read to catch up on my reading challenge.  This book was *ok*.  Apparently this author has quite the following, though, as I already mailed the book to someone on the waiting list at PaperbackSwap.com... (highly recommend this website to get some new books, and rid yourself of the old!).  But I digress, this is a short mystery that is a cross between Rear Window and something chick-lit.  Fun, but forgettable.  Sometimes, that's just what you need!

Did I like it?  Eh.  Would I recommend it?  Perhaps... sometimes shorter is better!  Rating?  2.5 out of 5.

Book 8, 2012 - The Doomsday Book by Connie Willis

While I found this book pretty darn good, it is going to set me back in my reading challenge for the year!  This book was loooonnnnngggg.... but with the exception of about 100 pages in the beginning/ middle, it held my interest.  This was a book club selection, or I never would have picked this baby up.  It has historical fiction/ science fiction/ comedy aspects all rolled into one.  Definitely a great book when you're looking for a "heavier" fare... definitely not a beach read.

Did I like the book?  Yes, for the most part.  Would I recommend it?  Depends on the person.  Rating?  4 out of 5. 

Now on to something easier!

Book 7, 2012 The Weight of Silence by Heather Gudenkauf

After two very funny books in a row, I went back to my standard "what-would-you-do" fare.  These are the kinds of books I typically read... chick-lit that's not too fluffy.  Without describing the plot, (which I know can be read on Amazon in no time flat), two young girls go missing for a day, and this book is about the process each family takes to find the girls.  I thought this book was ~fine~.  This was an entertaining, fast read, but I will not remember this book a couple of months from now.  That's ok with me though--  not every book has to be the BEST.  With that...

Did I like it?  It was OK.  Would I recommend it?  Probably not.  Rating?  2.5 out of 5.

Book 6, 2012 - Bossypants by Tina Fey

I thought Mindy Kaling's book was pretty funny, until I read Tina Fey's book and realized the former was just a warm up.  Tina Fey is hilarious.  I found all of it a complete laugh-fest.  Funny thing is, this is also a book club book and I've compared notes with a couple others that have already read it... (we haven't had our meeting yet)....  and I think I'm alone!  No one else finds it very funny!  I'm not sure what that says about me!  Regardless, I stand by this quasi-review.... It's funny!!!

Did I like?  YES!  Would I recommend?  Yes!  Rating?  4 out of 5.

Book 5, 2012 Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? by Mindy Kaling

After the disaster that the ending of the Hunger Games was for me, I needed something light.  This book certainly fit the bill.  I laughed out loud several times with this book.  I have to admit, it felt like the last 1/3 to 1/4 of the book she was reaching a bit for material.  I don't think discussing pictures taken on one's cell phone to be terribly editorial or interesting, but it's part of the book.  Oh well.. the good definitely outweighed the bad.  Fun book.... I admire people, especially women, that exceed their goals.

Did I like?  Sure.  Would I recommend?  Sure.  Rating?  3.5 out of 5.

Book 4, 2012 - Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins

Why oh why oh why?  I didn't like this book whatsoever.  I couldn't be more disappointed with the ending of this otherwise fantastic trilogy.  I thought the over-the-top violence and gore was unnecessary.  All of the great qualities about Katniss' character went right out the window with this book.  The first two books had a lot to say, I think, politically and otherwise.... besides being highly entertaining.  This book could not have been more of a letdown.

Did I like?  Not at all.  Would I recommend?  I have already told people to steer clear.  If you want to know the ending, just ask me.... I'll tell you.  Rating?  1 out of 5.  Booooooo.