June 2010 Wrap Up

With June ending, here's a look at the books I read and reviewed this month. Click on the title to read my review:

1. The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson

2. Shanghai Girls by Lisa See

3. The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie by Alan Bradley

4. Everything Lovely, Effortless, Safe by Jenny Hollowell

5. The Girl Who Played With Fire by Stieg Larsson

Absolutely Loved: Stieg Larsson books

Just Okay: none -- this was a strong month

What did you read in June?

Review -- Everything Lovely, Effortless, Safe by Jenny Hollowell

Everything Lovely, Effortless, Safe

by Jenny Hollowell

Henry Holt, 2010

256 pages

* I received a review copy from Jason at Henry Holt. Thanks Jason!

Summary: The story of Birdie Baker, a woman who leaves her old life behind to become an actress in Hollywood. As Birdie struggles for her big break, she meets Lewis and they begin a relationship.

Review: This novel is a character piece that details the inner most thoughts of a woman who is very unhappy. Birdie has a lot of guilt regarding leaving her husband and parents behind as she chases her dreams of stardom. But after seven years, she has turned to booze and one night stands to lessen the pain of rejection. I loved Jenny Hollowell's writing style, it was very fluid and kept me engaged with the characters and curious to know what would happen next. I also found some parts of the novel very heavy and many times it was hard to understand Birdie's thoughts and actions. Rating: ***1/2 out of 5

Have you read and reviewed this book? Leave a link to your post in the comments section!

3 W Wednesday -- 6/9

This meme is hosted by Should Be Reading.

What are you currently reading? I am almost finished with The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie by Alan Bradley and just started The Little Stranger by Sarah Waters.

What have you recently finished reading? Last week I finished Shanghai Girls by Lisa See for book club meeting this coming Monday night (we are talking to the author -- AWESOME!)

What are you reading next? I have two books for review -- This Must Be the Place by Kate Racculia and Everything Lovely, Effortless, Safe by Jenny Hollowell.

What are you reading?