2025 Reading Challenge discussion

I’m taking on the 2025 reading challenge because I want to reconnect with the joy of reading – something that felt out of reach throughout 2024. Last year was difficult when it came to books. Mental health struggles, combined with a persistent lack of concentration and focus, left me feeling disconnected from stories and the worlds I used to love escaping to.

The reading slump I found myself in wasn’t just about disinterest; it felt like a complete block. Even books I was excited for couldn’t hold my attention, and finishing anything became a rare achievement. Reading, which once felt like a refuge, became another source of frustration.

But as I look ahead to 2025, I want to rebuild that habit and give myself the grace to start slowly, without pressure or expectation. This challenge is more than just ticking off books – it’s about reclaiming a part of me that felt lost last year. I hope that by setting small, manageable goals, I can rediscover the comfort and excitement that reading used to bring.

Book one - The Night Shift by Robert Enright

Alan’s Review: “The Night Shift”

Overview:

“The Night Shift” by Robert Enright is a gripping thriller that masterfully blends action, suspense, and the unrelenting pursuit of justice. It introduces readers to Sam Pope, a hardened and determined protagonist who shares striking similarities with iconic characters like Jack Reacher from Lee Child’s renowned series.

Character Analysis – Sam Pope:

Sam Pope is a former special forces operative who finds himself drawn into dangerous situations that demand his particular set of skills. Like Reacher, Pope is a lone wolf – driven by a sense of justice and moral clarity that compels him to intervene where others might turn away. His military background equips him with not only physical prowess but also sharp instincts and a tactical mind, making him a formidable force against adversaries.

Much like Reacher, Pope operates outside the law but never against it. He is meticulous, calculating, and unflinching when confronted with violence. His actions are governed by an internal moral compass that often puts him in the crosshairs of both criminals and corrupt officials.

Comparing Sam Pope to Jack Reacher:

1. Moral Code and Sense of Justice:
Both Pope and Reacher are driven by a black-and-white view of justice. They intervene in situations where the vulnerable need protection, often at great personal risk.

2. Physical and Tactical Prowess:
Pope and Reacher share similar backgrounds in elite military training, which gives them an edge in combat. Enright, like Child, crafts intense fight sequences and tactical confrontations that highlight their protagonists’ lethal efficiency.

3. Loner Archetype:
While both men forge temporary alliances, they remain quintessential drifters – unencumbered by long-term attachments or material possessions. Their transient nature reflects their relentless pursuit of righting wrongs.
4. Narrative Style and Pacing:
Enright’s writing mirrors the fast-paced, no-nonsense style that Child employs. The action is relentless, the dialogue is sharp, and the narrative unfolds with gripping intensity.

The Appeal of “The Night Shift”:
For readers who enjoy the Jack Reacher series, “The Night Shift” offers a similarly immersive experience. Enright crafts a protagonist who is as compelling as he is dangerous, delivering a satisfying blend of cerebral investigation and bone-crunching action.

In conclusion, “The Night Shift” stands as a testament to Robert Enright’s skill in creating a hero who embodies the best qualities of the action-thriller genre. Fans of Jack Reacher will undoubtedly find a new favorite in Sam Pope.

Hey Alan,
I can relate all too well to the struggles you're describing. I know reading slumps are tough, but I admire your tenacity to keep going in 2025. My number one tip for overcoming a slump is always to give in to it. Like you mention, I tend to recommend giving yourself mention I do think baby steps are a great way out of it, instead of just charging through and hoping for the best.

Congratulations on your first book of the year. I really enjoyed your review of The Night Shift. Wishing you lots of luck on your reading journey in 2025. I hope you discover lots of fantastic books that help you regain that spark and passion for reading. 📚
Happy reading!

Hi Alan! Hope all is okay and you are making progress in your goal of reconnecting with your love of reading. I hope you are giving yourself grace to slowly rediscover the joy in books. I can relate to the frustration of books not being enough of a distraction and escape for the noise in my life. I've turned to music and television, which are normally not my go-to's. I'm here to support you as you achieve your goal. Wishing you happy reading!