It’s that time where I dole out recommendations according to what kind of mood you might be in at random — whether that be an actual mood or a specific type of book. Check out past Whatcha In the Mood For recs!
I would LOVE LOVE LOVE if you could also leave some recs for my categories in the comments to further help people looking for books that fit! Also, have a good idea for a category or something you have been looking for? Leave it in the comments!
Want to be confused out of your mind?
The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer by Michelle Hodkin
Why? Confusing like whoa. Constant wtf-ery. This one is a paranormal that constantly had me like WTF WHAT IS GOING ON. I admittedly 1) haven’t finished the series but plan on rereading this one and then finishing and 2) didn’t find it to be a PERFECT read as there were things I didn’t dig but reviews of the second made me definitely want to continue on. I could NOT put this one down when I read it!
*thanks for this reader suggested category from Leah*
Wanting a book that packs an emotional punch?
Why? I read this in a couple hours (it’s only 276 pages) and OMG MY EMOTIONS. Just tears streaming down my face. From the ostracizing and bullying the main character goes through to protect a secret to some emotional things that happen at the end, I just couldn’t get a handle on my emotions the whole time I read this. I don’t get why it’s not more popular. It so should be! It’s a gem! (My review of If I Lie)
In the mood for a really fun paranormal mystery series?
The Body Finder by Kimberly Derting
Why? The main character can sense the bodies that have been murdered. It’s most been animals but a serial killer is on the loose in her area and she finds herself being able to hear their echos and they leave a certain imprint from the killer that gives her the ability to possibly be able to help solve the crime. The series is 4 books and SO fun. Very quick reads with good mysteries, an interesting paranormal element and an adorable romance. Plus, as of when I am writing this, the Kindle book is only $1.99! Perfect time to try the series out! (my review of The Body Finder)
Want To Read A YA Historical Filled With Drama and Scandal?
Why? Oh my gosh what an addictive romp through King Henry VIII’s court that re-acquainted me with historical figures I’m familiar with and introduced me to new ones I’d never heard about. It’s seriously such a perfect blend of history and fun. I’d definitely recommend it to people who are wary of historical novels because it’s SO addictive. If you know anything about this era, you know there is a lot of drama and scandal to give something like Gossip Girl a run for its money. If you’ve enjoyed watching Reign on the CW (I have but I am totally behind), I highly recommend as its more in that vein of entertainment! (My review of Brazen)
In the mood for a good gothic mystery?
My Cousin Rachel by Daphne du Maurier
Why? Everyone seems to know Rebecca by this author (likely you had to read it for summer reading like I did in high school?) but I also REALLY love and recommend this one! I was constantly guessing about Rachel and if she was all that she seemed. Philip is 24 and was raised by his cousin Ambrose. Ambrose is abroad and keeps in touch by writing letters and soon enough he tells Philip that he has met and fallen in love with Rachel. But his letters become more alarming when he’s fallen ill and thinks Rachel could have something to do with it…only for Philip to find out Ambrose has died and suddenly Rachel shows up. Daphne du Maurier is a brilliant writer and I really enjoyed this one!
Have you read any of these? Agree/disagree with my recs? Have any to add?? Also, if you have a specific mood you think I should do next time….drop that in the comments!
Emmah says
YESSSS to Brazen!! I so wish she’d write one about Mary Queen of Scots and Francis! It’d be SO good!
Jamie says
YAS would love that!!!
Dana @ The Unprinted Protagonist says
OMG, If I Lie is soooo good! I was a snot-covered, tear-streaked mess after I finished it! I felt so angry and sad for Quinn. I think it’s time for a re-read.
Jamie says
OMG YES. I did NOT expect that book to affect me like it did. It’s slim and unassuming and then BAM…I’m a mess.
Krys says
I’m liking the cover for Brazen <3
– Krys
Jamie says
It’s even more gorgeous in person I think!
Annie says
i saw brazen the other day at the bookstore for $5 and if only i had read this post earlier. i’m a huge historical fiction fan so i was kinda questioning whether or not to buy it but wasn’t sure as i hadn’t seen many reviews for it (maybe the only thing that i wish i could change post-blogging. wish i didn’t always live in fear of buying a book i might end up not liking, like i did before i started blogging). but now that i’ve read this post… i’m hoping it’s still on sale haha so i can go get it tomorrow. also my cousin rachel sounds so good! i haven’t heard of it but i did read rebecca for english two years ago (well sorta.. i read half and then skimmed the rest. not out of lack of interest but just because i like to procrastinate) and enjoyed it and my cousin rachel sounds really REALLY good. i love gothic mysteries so.. i’ll probably give it a shot!
Jamie says
OH MAN! I wish I would have posted this earlier too!! (And omg I am SOOOO the same as you…I always just bought books on a whim but now I’m like AM I SURE I WILL LOVE IT. Like 100% positive?? I think this is why I spend my money on books I read as ARCs and loved or fave authors!) Hope you can get it!!
My Cousin Rachel was sooo good. I feel like her other books get overshadowed by Rebecca!
Rachel says
I should definitely finish The Body Finder series. I’ve read the first two books, and I loved them, but I just haven’t picked up the other two. Thanks for reminding me!
Jamie says
Admittedly I still have to read the very final one but I heard good things and the rest of the series was so solid that I am certain I will love it! FINGERS CROSSED.
Rachel says
Yeah, I’ve seen a lot of really good things about the entire series. I’ll have to pick up the final books eventually.
Cynthia @ Bingeing On Books says
So many amazing recommendations!! Thank you for adding to my ever growing TBR. Ha. The only one on this list I have read is Mara Dyer. I loved that series! If I Lie sounds amazing. And for some reason, I kind of love books that make me cry.
Jamie says
MISSION ACCOMPLISHED. I love making people’s TBRs grow!! hehe.
I soooo love books that make me cry. I’m a glutton for punishment in that way! “Oh this book will wreck your very soul and you won’t be right for months??” *buys immediately*
Molly | wrapped up in books says
I like how you spotlight a few under the radar books in this series. I haven’t read any of the books in this post!
Jamie says
thank you, Molly! That was my hope was that I could spotlight under the radars and also books that I raved about in the beginning of my blogging journey that newer readers might not have read yet!
Adriane says
If I Lie might be one of my all time favorite books. Seriously one of those books that hit me in the there…
Jamie says
YES! It makes me so sad it isn’t more well known because it’s so excellent and makes you think! Not to mention makes you feel ALL THE THINGS!
Adriane says
Absolutely! This book TOTALLY wrecked me! I was at the beach bawling like a baby over this book.