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When I first began reading this book, I was a bit hesitant about reading it because it does not fall into the categories of books that I prefer to read. What propelled me to keep reading was my curiousity about the grandmother of the main character, as well as how the plot seemed to sort of verge to the right of what I tried to predict would happen next as I read. I enjoy reading books that are not completely predictable, but not so unpredictable that the events are absurd. This would definitely fall under that heading.
With this book, I got a peak into a lifestyle (of drugs) that I have blessedly never experienced first hand, and it opened my eyes to the desperation and hopelessness that accompanies it. I also got a look into the polar opposite of that lifestyle - that of a pastor and the politics within a specific denomination. Along with these two heavy topics, Nichols also seamlessly weaves the equally heavy topics of depression and suicide beautifully, albeit bittersweetly. I found myself shedding tears over the book, not once, but twice. The wisdom addressing these topics was right on target and fit very naturally into the plot without the book coming across as "preachy." Each of the characters, no matter how small his or her part in the plot, was well-defined and unique, and I appreciated each one. All of the "loose ends" were accounted for and tied up, and every character seemed to reach a place of redemption in their own way.
This book was very satisfying and I am glad I decided to read it.
  
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Suswatibasu (1701 KP) rated The Outrun in Books

Sep 23, 2017  
The Outrun
The Outrun
Amy Liptrot | 2016 | Biography
8
8.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
An important read, but a little haphazard
Dealing with an addiction is no mean feat, it's an illness as Amy Liptrot explains in this memoir where she battles alcoholism. Some of the incidents are truly horrifying, not because of 'what she does to herself', but more so what the illness does to her and as a result her life spirals downwards. And while that part I can truly engage with, the random long explanations about her newfound passions for astronomy, sea and bird life seems to go off in a tangent.

You can definitely recognise her addictive personality manifesting in new hobbies, and obsessing in the same way. And at least that's healthier, but as a reader, I seemed to lose concentration on her rural lifestyle. Very good insight into mental health and addiction though.
  
This book could not have come at a better time. As newly diagnosed with diabetes II, my doctor told me that I needed to closely follow a low sugar and low carb diet. Who knew that a combo like this would not only help me to start shedding pounds, but also improve my health (my energy level has increased) and well-being. Elviira’s book has helped me to look at the foods that I have been eating and find healthier more satisfying alternatives. I like that the recipes are easy to follow and mostly uses items that I can find at the local grocer. This is not a diet, but a lifestyle change that is good for you!

I received an ebook copy from NetGally in exchange for a fair review.
  
This book could not have come at a better time. As newly diagnosed with diabetes II, my doctor told me that I needed to closely follow a low sugar and low carb diet. Who knew that a combo like this would not only help me to start shedding pounds, but also improve my health (my energy level has increased) and well-being. Elviira’s book has helped me to look at the foods that I have been eating and find healthier more satisfying alternatives. I like that the recipes are easy to follow and mostly uses items that I can find at the local grocer. This is not a diet, but a lifestyle change that is good for you!

I received an ebook copy from NetGally in exchange for a fair review.
  
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Milleen (47 KP) rated The Girl Before in Books

Nov 14, 2018  
The Girl Before
The Girl Before
J.P. Delaney | 2017 | Fiction & Poetry
8
7.7 (25 Ratings)
Book Rating
A twist on the popular domestic noir novels that have dominated the bestseller list. This psychological thriller revolves around Jane, recovering after a traumatic loss, she moves into an architectural showhome, an austere house with strict rules. One Folgate Street is a formidable fortress of technology that promotes, sleek, sterile, minimalist living but it hides a murky past. Jane is not the first resident to enjoy the stark lifestyle and her interest is piqued when a stranger leaves flowers at the door. Who was the girl before and will the same fate befall Jane?
This narrative uses the two women’s perspectives to draw you into the plot. The film is being directed by Ron Howard so there’s time to read the book before you see the movie. One for your travels.