It’s hard enough for us parents to find time to read, let alone to decide what to read. Head to the library and it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the stacks upon stacks of interesting-sounding titles (who can blame us for judging a book by its cover?). Just keeping up with book lists can seem like a chore. That’s why we here at LiveMom are introducing you to local authors, who will be giving you the skinny on what’s on their reading lists…because who better than a writer to turn you on to new and interesting books?!
Molly McAdams grew up in California but now lives in the oh-so-amazing state of Texas with her husband, daughter, and fur babies. When she’s not diving into the world of her characters, some of her hobbies include hiking, snowboarding, traveling, and long walks on the beach … which roughly translates to being a homebody with her hubby and dishing out movie quotes. She has a weakness for crude-humored movies and fried pickles, and loves curling up in a fluffy comforter during a thunderstorm … or under one in a bathtub if there are tornadoes. That way she can pretend they aren’t really happening.
McAdams is the New York Times bestselling author of Taking Chances. Best-selling author McAdams delivers another heart-wrenching story in the second novel in the Thatch series, following Letting Go (2014)…. Readers will tear through this emotional, fast-paced read, but they should be advised that To the Stars contains numerous graphic, potentially disturbing scenes of domestic violence.” – Booklist on recent release, To The Stars.
Molly’s Top Five Recommended Reads:
I feel as though I should preface my list with a disclaimer. I write contemporary romance, but it is rare that I will read inside that genre. I love fantasy, and I know just hearing the word “fantasy” turns people off, but it is incredible what giving the genre a chance can do for your reading. I know many people who have sworn that they would never touch fantasy or paranormal who now only read it once they’ve read the right books. I think some people view fantasy or paranormal and automatically think children’s books or the Twilight saga (not knocking the saga; I have a deep fondness for it), but it is so much more. Many of these authors write in a way I will never be able to, and I am in awe of their skill. So, here we go:
The Wrath and the Dawn
Said to be “A sumptuous and epically told love story inspired by A Thousand and One Nights .” That small description really says it all … if you multiply it and add in all of the feels. Hatred, fear, sorrow, and so many swoons. Ahdieh creates a world and characters that you can easily fall into, and fall in love with. This story has it all: revenge, learning things aren’t always as they appear, finding love where you least expect it, and fighting for it no matter the costs. For nearly a year now, this book has sat at my number 1 spot, and for good reason.
A Court of Thorns and Roses
This unique spin on Beauty and the Beast is so much more than what you remember from the beloved Disney movie that made us all want a man to give us a massive library. A Court of Thorns and Roses is enchanting, edgy, full of action and romance, and something you should not miss. Instead of the beast we all became used to, the captor is lethal and hidden behind a mask, nearly giving him a Phantom-of-the-Opera type feel. What isn’t there to love in that? I will admit that I was hesitant during the first six chapters—the chapters are very short, but the book is pleasantly long—but oh my, does the story suddenly take off and never once stop. I didn’t eat or sleep until this story was finished once I got to chapter seven.
The Kiss of Deception (The Remnant Chronicles)
I thought for a long time how to describe the mastermind that is Mary E. Pearson and this story, and finally gave up because I would only spoil the book, or simply say, “She’s a genius.” However, Booklist explains it perfectly : “ Pearson offers readers a wonderfully full-bodied story: harrowing, romantic, and full of myth and memory, fate and hope. She never compromises her characters—especially the multifaceted Lia—for plot; each element motivates the other. This has the sweep of an epic tale, told with some twists; it’s a book that almost doesn’t need a sequel, but readers will be thrilled that it continues on. ” But as I said above, Pearson is a genius with this story. There is an element that I am forcing myself not to spoil that is … well, it’s brilliant. Plain and simple. You will not regret picking up this series.
Poison Princess (The Arcana Chronicles)
This story is the first in a riveting series, and is said to possibly be the next Twilight. Big words, but I would not be surprised in the least. Post-apocalyptic and filled with romance, back-to-back action, and the crux of the entire series: Tarot cards. Sounds dark right? Tarot cards aren’t your thing? Mine neither. (Not knocking if you do enjoy them!) I hear “Tarot cards”, and I get chills; always have. However, the way Cole uses the cards throughout the series is incredibly intriguing, and will make you appreciate them as the characters, and separate them from real life. I can assure you I didn’t develop a liking for them apart from the books, but this is a series you don’t want to miss. Her unique take on the characters’—cards’—lives, the tangled romance that makes you scream at the pages of your book, and the non-stop action the makes your heart race, will leave you thinking about this book, and the others, long after you’ve finished reading them.
Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince (Book 6)
Yes, I am going to be that person … can I also cheat here and just put down the entire series? While some might find this childish, I can assure you it is not. This series is brutal and dark … but I doubt a description is necessary for all that is Harry Potter. Even if you haven’t read or watched it, you’ve heard of it. Rowling’s world building is incredible from start to finish. However, I will say that my favorite book in the series will always remain Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. I love Severus Snape’s character; and some of his more hidden, gut wrenching lines are in this story. (This is also the only series I will willingly read that isn’t romance.) If you haven’t read this series yet, take the time, you won’t regret it. Read it with your kids even!
Note: This post contains affiliate links.
