The Witness Wore Red by Rebecca Musser

This book is similar to Escape. It chronicles the life and escape of Rebecca "Becky" Musser from the FLDS cult.  She discusses her relationship with her polygamist father, abusive "mothers", her marriage to an elderly leader of the sect, and her revelation that her lifestyle was not healthy.  There is an extended discussion of Warren Jeffs and the multitude of sins he committed, as well as the influence that he exerted over these people through manipulation of their beliefs and their lives in general.

It isn't the most gripping book I've ever read, but I enjoy the polygamists and learning about how they function.  Becky demonstrates how deeply the fundamentals of her rearing are ingrained into her through her modesty in sharing her story and it is clear that the transition was not easy.  Bonus: It reads a lot like one of my favorites shows - Big Love.

Sharp Objects by Gillian Flynn

I loved this book.  It was a slow start.  I didn't want the first fifty pages, but once I made it past those, I couldn't stop reading.  I didn't want to go to sleep.  I went to the park at lunch to read.  We closed my office early so I could go home and finish it.

The basic premise is that a reporter is assigned to her hometown to investigate the gruesome murder of a young girl.  Soon, another young girl is killed.  The reporter explores the murder, navigates romantic and sexual relationships, and explores her strained family ties.

I highly recommend this book.  I am already looking forward to the next.

The Birth Order Connection

The birth order connection was an interesting book that explains how your placement in your family affects the way you interact with those around you and your romantic partner. It was pretty interesting.  I learned that as the oldest child, I not only like to follow the rules, but I like to make them, as well.  This makes me a good match for a last born or middle child.

The book doesn't tell you anything you didn't know, but its a fun read and a good conversation starter. It also only takes a couple hours to read.