Mini Reviews- The Hanging Girl & Turtles All the Way Down

The Hanging Girl by Eileen Cook

Goodreads Summary– Skye Thorn has given tarot card readings for years, and now her psychic visions are helping the police find the town’s missing golden girl. It’s no challenge—her readings have always been faked, but this time she has some insider knowledge. The kidnapping was supposed to be easy—no one would get hurt and she’d get the money she needs to start a new life. But a seemingly harmless prank has turned dark, and Skye realizes the people she’s involved with are willing to kill to get what they want and she must discover their true identity before it’s too late.

I have never been a huge fan of thrillers, so when I was sent The Hanging Girl in exchange for an honest review from Raincoast Books, I was not sure what to expect. I was blown away! There were so many twist and turns, and so many jaw-dropping moment.  I did not see any of the surprises coming!

I loved reading from Skye’s perspective. She is sarcastic and really brings the story to life. I was so frustrated with her a lot of them time but that was kind of what I loved about it. I do not think I would make the same choices that she makes, but I can understand why she made them.  I think a lot of us can relate to putting ourselves in to a situation that just snowballs out of control and we do not know how to get out of it. I enjoyed reading about the relationship that she has with her best friend, as well as with her mother.

I think that The Hanging Girl is a perfect book to read in October! It is classified as a young adult thriller, but I think fans of adult thrillers will enjoy this one as well. It is most definitely page turner that will keep you at the edge of your seat.

Turtles All the Way Down by John Green

Goodreads Summary– Sixteen-year-old Aza never intended to pursue the mystery of fugitive billionaire Russell Pickett, but there’s a hundred-thousand-dollar reward at stake and her Best and Most Fearless Friend, Daisy, is eager to investigate. So together, they navigate the short distance and broad divides that separate them from Russell Pickett’s son, Davis.

Aza is trying. She is trying to be a good daughter, a good friend, a good student, and maybe even a good detective, while also living within the ever-tightening spiral of her own thoughts.

I was reluctant to read John Green’s latest book because his books have been hit and miss for me in the past, but then I saw it at the store and I just couldn’t resist! I am happy to report that I do not regret that impulse buy! I am going to come out and say that this is my favourite John Green novel.

I know that many people say that he always has the same character- the manic pixie dream girl- but I wasn’t getting that from Aza.  She was unique, and she felt so authentic and real.  Aza has OCD as does John Green- which is very apparent when reading this book.  You can tell that the author has personal experience with OCD and it was eyeopening to be inside Aza’s head. I would truly recommend Turtles All the Way Down for the mental health representation alone.  It was refreshing to see mental health handled in a realistic way, and Aza was not miraculous ‘cured’ at the end of the novel.

I will say that I did not enjoy Davis’ fascination with stars.  It almost felt like an afterthought and something just thrown in to make him seem unique and different. I found myself skimming a lot of the sections where he was explaining constellations.

I liked all of the characters in the novel in respect to their relationship with Aza. I think it is important to shed light on how mental illness affects not only the person but also those who love and care for them.

The plot really took a backseat to the characters, and if you have been reading my blog for awhile than you will know that that is something I prefer. There was definitely a plot, but it was more subtle.  The ending was absolutely beautiful, and I loved how John Green explained the title.

If you have been on the fence about whether or not you should read Turtles All the Way Down, I hope this review has helped you decide if it is a book that you would enjoy.

Have you read The Hanging Girl or Turtles All the Way Down? I would love to hear your thoughts! If you have posted a review please feel free to link it below!