I haven't read any books in the past month or two, in part because I've been tremendously busy but moreso because The Picture of Dorian Gray took such a weird turn that I've been actively avoiding my entire reading list. (Thank you, past me, for hoarding hundreds of amazing magazines for just such a time.) However, I'm determined to make a vat of coffee this weekend and get back on track with my goal of finishing fifty books this year. For kicks and giggles, here is what I've enjoyed—and not enjoyed—in 2014:

• Divergent and Insurgent (good story, terribly written)
• Yotsuba! Vol. 11 & Vol. 12 (cutest, funniest manga series)
• Delicate Edible Birds and Other Stories (haunting in a way that very much reminded me of The Awakening, by Kate Chopin)
• Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking (had some good moments but was overall disappointing)
• Eleanor & Park (quick read, fantastic love story)
• Unless (also kind of haunting, not my fave but not bad)
• The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time (so wonderful, possibly because I felt like I could relate to the autistic kid being overwhelmed by environmental stimulants)
• Red Mars, Green Mars, and Blue Mars (ohhhh my gosh, I cannot stop raving about this series)
• The Light Between Oceans (poorly written and super sad, but it generated my favorite inside joke of the year)
• Casino Royale (quick, fun read, even if Bond did mistakenly think many good Americans were from Texas)
• Howard's End (perfect first book to read for my miniature book club with Tyler)
• The Fellowship of the Ring and The Two Towers (duh)

I took extensive notes on all of these books and will someday share them on Goodreads. Until then (and after then), add me as a friend and/or give me recommendations!