The House of Dragons by Jessica Cluess

Let me be frank. I completely forgot what this book is even about, but I know without reading the synopsis that it’s getting the boot. Why? Because the author decided to go in on a Black woman educator because she deigned to question why schools seem to stick with teaching the same ‘classics’ all the time. It was ugly and I don’t feel like supporting someone who can act like that with the platform they have.

Verdict: Remove

The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt

I will fully admit I’ve forgotten what this book is about, as well. I remember there was a movie and it centered around a painting? Having read the synopsis, this sounds like it could be interesting, but I’m not nearly intrigued enough to keep it around. Honestly, I’d rather read The Secret History by this author to try her out. I don’t need to keep this one around just because I’ve always wanted to try a Donna Tartt novel. If I like the other one, maybe it can come back.

Verdict: Remove

NOS4A2 by Joe Hill

The moment I found out that Joe Hill is Stephen King’s son, I wanted to read something he has written. This book is the one that captures my interest the most. First, I love the title. Second, it sounds weird and like my kind of horror novel. The concept of an alternate universe (maybe?) wrapped up inside a thriller with horror elements? Yes, please! Also, I’m curious to see how his writing style compares to his dad’s writing.

Verdict: Keep

The Girl in Red by Christina Henry

Once again, Christina Henry is an author about which I’ve always been curious. That being said, I don’t think her spooky Little Red Riding Hood retelling is the one I would like to try first. I mean… it sounds like it could be good. Still, I would rather give her Peter Pan retelling a try first. And I don’t really need multiple books of hers on my TBR until I know whether or not I’m going to get on with her writing style, right? Right.

Verdict: Remove

Aurora Rising by Amie Kaufman and Jay Kristoff

Heh, I just said that I don’t need more than one book from an author (or, in this case, co-authors) on my TBR if I haven’t read from them yet. And yet… I don’t think I could choose between keeping this book and Illumniae! So… I guess I’m breaking my own rule. Look, I love space books with motely crews that smack of that found family goodness. There’s no way this is getting taken off the TBR!

Verdict: Keep