She is too fond of books and it has turned her brain. Louisa May Alcott

Well, here we are, five days into October, and I’m just now posting a roundup from September. I’ve been besieged by migraine-like symptoms off and on for several weeks, which makes reading and writing on a screen (or paper) . . . interesting. I see a specialist in November. Perhaps I can use this Alcott quote and claim that my over-fondness for books has turned my brain somehow.

Thanks to NetGalley, book tours, and special requests from authors, I have lots of book reviews from this month!

In the mood for a psychological thriller? Try these debut novels: What Happened That Night by Deanna Cameron or Lady Killer by Jeff Richards.

Prefer an historical mystery? Try Murder at Whitby Abbey by Cassandra Clark

Or maybe you’re worried about more modern times. That’s understandable! Technology, science fiction, and paranoia join together in Neon Empire by Drew Minh

Ready to brave the world of politics? Here’s two political thrillers that might strike your fancy (and your funny bone). The Beijing Conspiracy by Shamini Flint and Stasiland by Rolf Richardson

Okay, so political thrillers and techno-paranoia aren’t for everyone. If you’d like a quirky, charming mystery, here’s a new indie author and her debut to check out. Survival Can Be Deadly by Charlotte Stuart

If you prefer a police procedural grounded in modern times, try Bomber’s Moon by Archer Mayor or No Place of Refuge by Ausma Zehanat Khan.

I’ve only written one writing tip post, but here it is:

How word choice colors how readers respond to your story

It’s your turn. What books have you read this month?