With the advancement of the digital age comes one of my favorite technology developments: a multitude of awesome e-books to read in my spare time. While I've always been a part of the group that prefers the printed text as opposed to a digital file, I've found e-books becoming more useful. There are actually quite a few benefits that come with downloading novels on an e-reader - including the fact that you have less to carry, therefore eliminating any strain on your back and shoulders. For all of the technology lovers out there, here is a round up of phenomenal e-books to read as soon as possible (which also come in print).
1 Casual Vacancy
On Amazon at: amazon.com
When author J.K. Rowling announced that she would be releasing a novel outside of the beloved Harry Potter series, I don't think there was anyone more ecstatic than I was. When it comes to e-books to read, "Casual Vacancy" definitely comes to mind. Without giving too much away, it essentially focuses on the chaos that erupts after a seat becomes available on the local council. I love the fact that it doesn't contain a typical storyline and instead provides a character study on humanity as a whole.
2 Friends - and then Some
On iTunes at: itunes.apple.com
After reading "Friends - And Then Some", I can say that it definitely lives up to all of the hype. This book by Debbie Macomber follows the lives of two friends who desperately wish to become closer. Although this plot has been explored countless times, Macomber manages to revitalize it with her expert writing style.
3 An Abundance of Katherines
On Barnes & Noble at: barnesandnoble.com
When I first read John Green's "The Fault in Our Stars", I didn't think that I would ever find another book that I would love as much. Reading his novel "An Abundance of Katherines" definitely changed my mind. This story centers on Colin, the protagonist, and his struggles trying to figure out his life, while also attempting to understand the pattern in his dating habits (the title serves as a clue).
4 Still Life with Bread Crumbs
On Google Play at: play.google.com
One of my favorite aspects of reading this text by Anna Quindlen is that it contains feminist undertones. I love that Rebecca, the main protagonist who works as a professional photographer, is painted in an inspiring light (which makes her seem more relatable). This story follows her struggle to reinvent herself.
5 This Lullaby
On iTunes at: itunes.apple.com
Written by Sarah Dessen, author of the critically acclaimed novel "Just Listen", this heartwarming story of a girl trying to find herself as she experiences love for the first time will give you goosebumps. Based on this book alone, I'm looking forward to reading Dessen's whole collection.
6 Scarlet
On Barnes & Noble at: barnesandnoble.com
Marissa Meyer's "Scarlet" adds a modern element to one of the most famous fairy tales. Scarlet, who is based on Little Red Riding Hood, sets on a journey to find her missing grandmother; she encounters a mystery figure along the way and must decide whether or not to trust him to give her the missing clue to finding her grandmother's whereabouts. Rough summary aside, I guarantee that you will find this tale interesting!
7 The Beginning of Everything
On Amazon at: amazon.com
Lastly, Robyn Schneider does a marvelous job at enticing his readers in with his incredibly detailed and emotion-packed writing. After a tragic accident occurs, shattering his knee and hopes of his athletic career taking off, Ezra Faulkner is forced to start over from scratch and re-evaluate his life and what it means to be truly happy.
I love how convenient reading has become; whether you love print or digital, anything that helps bring in more readers sounds good to me! What e-books are you looking forward to picking up?