The Tattooist of Auschwitz by, Heather Morris

4 Stars!!! 

“Politics will help you understand the world until you don’t understand it anymore, and then it will get you thrown into a prison camp. Politics and religion both.” 

The Tattooist of Auschwitz, is a harrowing true story- one that grips your heart from the very beginning. This was a beautiful story about perseverance and hope. Stories about this time in history, usually are very difficult to read. They make you uncomfortable and just give new perspective on how blessed we really are regardless of where we are from. At least that's what they do for me. 

The story follows Lale, who became the main tattooist of Auschwitz and falls in love at first sight with Gita, who he first met tattooing her arm. There are a ton of books about the holocaust - but this one was different for me because it grips your emotions. It was a beautiful thing to read that love and hope can still reside in the most difficult of situations. Especially with this being a true story- It leaves a mark, and makes you humble and makes you think. 

I really cant say I enjoyed reading this because it was hard and emotional- but it was a must read if that makes sense. Its just a story I feel everyone should read and if for only a moment- count their blessings. 100 % recommend!!

The Last Kingdom by Bernard Cornwell

3.75 stars
“I am Uhtred, son of Uhtred, and this is the tale of a blood feud. It is a tale of how I will take from my enemy what the law says is mine. And it is the tale of a woman and of her father, a king. He was my king and all that I have I owe to him. The food that I eat, the hall where I live, and the swords of my men, all came from Alfred, my king, who hated me.”

HELLO Uhtred.....



I'm not the biggest fan of Historical Fiction books. I had interest in the TV Show and wanted to read the book first. I powered through the first half of this one, by Part 2, the book was redeemed since the pace picked up. Also, I think, since by the second half, Uhtred was getting older, he had a lot more going on, therefore, making him WAY more interesting . There were LOTS of blood and battle scenes- which were done fabulously.



I think I would have enjoyed this one even more if the characters, besides Uhtred and Ragnar, had more depth to them. I needed a little bit more of something and I just cant put my finger on it. I really enjoyed following Uhtreds story though, and I will probably give book 2 a go later on. Although, I will admit- the ending made me want to pick it up sooner than later. I will say- regardless of my personal attention span- Bernard Cornwell is an Epic Story teller and Author. I am not giving up on him just yet!

The Conspiracy of Us by, Maggie Hall

                                

4 Stars!! Did somebody say Conspiracy??? I really liked this one!! I went into it not having a clue what it was about. I honestly saw the word CONSPIRACY and was sold. I may like to put on my shiny hat from time to time..... The Conspiracy of Us was such a great mix of so many of my favorite themes. You got a girl who has grown up her whole life having to move around a ton- but everything she has been told about her life.... may be a lie. She goes on a quest to find out who she is and it turns into sort of a treasure hunt- so kinda has some National Treasure vibes . There is a lot of action and the pacing is just fantastic. You never really have time to be bored. There is a little romance - oooh la laaa and History!! Ancient Civilizations and Secret Societies.... I mean come on... what else could a bookworm ask for??? I really enjoyed all the mystery and the thrill of finding out new information. The MC is very likable and you cant help but want to jump in the book and try to help her find out more about herself. I was honestly surprised that more people haven't read this series. I saw some people compare it to Gossip Girl and I honestly wouldn't go that far... its not super dramatic... I think it was written fabulously and it holds its own. I really hope the rest of the series continues at the same pace and it stays exciting! So if you are looking for a good mystery filled with history-romance-conspiracy-and action... You should totally try this one!