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0451478800
| 9780451478801
| 0451478800
| 3.83
| 10,194
| Aug 28, 2018
| Aug 28, 2018
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it was amazing
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this was everything Zenith wanted to be and more review won't come until December this was everything Zenith wanted to be and more review won't come until December ...more |
Notes are private!
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1
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Sep 13, 2018
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Sep 18, 2018
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Sep 13, 2018
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Hardcover
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3.94
| 99,264
| Sep 18, 2012
| Sep 18, 2012
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it was amazing
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Trigger Warnings: domestic violence, parental violence, homophobia, homelessness mentions, underage drinking, abortion, rape, racism, death, murder MY Trigger Warnings: domestic violence, parental violence, homophobia, homelessness mentions, underage drinking, abortion, rape, racism, death, murder MY REVIEW FOR THE DIVINERS BY LIBBA BRAY WAS FIRST POSTED ON MY BLOG. SUBSCRIBE TO SEE ALL MY REVIEWS BEFORE GOODREADS. The Diviners by Libba Bray has been on my TBR for some time now. Every time I’ve gone to pick it up I’ve been intimidated by the sheer size of this book. It is a pretty thick book and I am someone who never knows how a book will hold my attention. I’m not sure what drove me to finally pick up this paranormal treat but I am so glad I did! Even if I did choose to pick it up in my first week of university (oops). The Diviners is an absolutely delightful treat that I feel has something for everyone. With a diverse group of characters, who all get their moment in the spotlight, and a plot that you simply can’t forget this story is one that I know I will be highly recommending for months on end. I have so many positive things to say about this book that I don’t even know where to begin. I want to start with the fact that you need to read this. Even if you’re afraid of the sheer size of the book, like me. It is such a treat that I know everyone who reads my blog will enjoy. Some fun facts though. I discovered Libba Bray’s books in my first year of high school and absolutely fell in love with her writing. I’m so shocked that it has taken me basically ten years to continue with her works. Also, this was the first book I have listened to partially on audiobook and I loved it. What is The Diviners about? I’m sure your curious after me urging desperately for everyone to read it. Well, this book follows a series of teenagers in 1920’s New York. The era of flapper girls and where racism was still very apparent in the streets (I guess it still is). The story doesn’t end there though, this book is about a group of teenagers fighting evil spirits or entities that come to the city and do some terrible things. The plot follows several different characters and you get basically everyone’s backstories. Including the murderers. Not only that but you get the perspective of the murderer. At first this was something that frustrated me as I wanted a bit of mystery, but as the book continued I found myself getting chills down my spin when his chapters came along due to the sheer creepiness. I honestly can’t say too much on this book as a whole because it will begin to spoil this story for you and if you haven’t yet read it I definitely don’t want to give away things. Libba Bray just weaves this intricate world that really screams at you. Due to the urban fantasy setting the world building is sneakily interwoven into the story in a way that leaves you basically breathless at how well it is done. I am not someone who typically enjoys books that head into the paranormal area but this book was in another playing field completely. I can’t wait to continue and fall more in love with these characters. I’d have to say that Theta and Henry were my two favourite characters in this book. They both had difficult upbringings and to see them working together to accomplish their goals (and be so beautifully platonic friends) was something that I feel Libba Bray did amazingly well. There is a whole chapter dedicated to Theta’s backstory and I actually listened to it while vacuuming my house and I was sobbing by the end of it – which made mopping the floors even easier. All the characters though are just so filled with depth. I can’t say I can remember the last time I read a fantasy book with characters who are so well created and utterly amazing. I am basically speechless on this book and I am really struggling to even begin to format my words on this one. I think my only complaint about The Diviners is that there are hints of a love triangle forming. If you’ve read any of my past reviews you know I despise love triangles. I have a nasty habit of choosing one person and absolutely despising the other. I can’t help it. I even hate Jem from The Infernal Devices because I can’t love two. It is a difficult mess. While I didn’t want this book to end I also wanted Evie to hurry up and choose a man so my torment could end – spoiler, she doesn’t choose anyone by the end of this book. Overall, The Diviners is well worth the hype it receives. I haven’t read a book with fantasy elements in a long time but I know this one has shot to my favourite books of 2018. It is truly a story that is woven so beautifully. I can’t help but highly recommend it because I truly think everyone will love it. ...more |
Notes are private!
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1
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Jul 10, 2018
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Jul 12, 2018
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Jul 09, 2018
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Hardcover
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1627799370
| 9781627799379
| 1627799370
| 4.13
| 15,210
| Dec 05, 2017
| Dec 05, 2017
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it was amazing
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Trigger Warnings: panic attack, grand mal seizure mentions FIND THIS REVIEW FOR FOOLISH HEARTS HERE. SUBSCRIBE TO MY BLOG TO SEE ALL MY REVIEWS FIRST I Trigger Warnings: panic attack, grand mal seizure mentions FIND THIS REVIEW FOR FOOLISH HEARTS HERE. SUBSCRIBE TO MY BLOG TO SEE ALL MY REVIEWS FIRST I went into Foolish Hearts with literally no expectations. I didn’t know what I was going to get from this book but I figured a YA contemporary was something that would help me pass the time until I worked out what I did want to read. I was so wrong. This book is a masterpiece. I read it incredibly quickly (two days, only because my mum was home from work and I was spending time with her). Foolish Hearts by Emma Mills is a book that grabbed me by the heartstrings and has managed to worm its way into my top ten books of 2018. I know I said that in my review for The Kiss Quotient but this June I am reading so many amazing books. This book was so damn fluffy that it made my heart squeeze on almost every page. Foolish Hearts is told from the perspective of Claudia, who attends an all-girls private school. This is meant to be a great year for her but things go wrong fast. Claudia finds herself on the wrong side of the meanest girl in school, Iris, and to her luck finds herself working with Iris on a paper. The paper goes terribly and to make up the grade the pair is required to audition for the school production that is being put on with the neighbouring all boys’ school. Due to this production, an unlikely friendship arises, an obsession with a boy band and a love story that still makes my heart skip a beat looking back on it. That isn’t all Foolish Hearts contains though. Oh, no, there is more! There is a healthy male friendship, realistic family relationships and a character who experiences grand mal seizures (more on this later). This book really had all my favourite elements included. I did have a few problems with this but honestly, most of them are personal and things that popped up during my experience reading Foolish Hearts. Now, enough of almost spoiling y’all time to get down to my favourite and least favourite things about Foolish Hearts. what I liked ✗ SWEET ROMANCE The romance in this book was one of the sweetest I have ever seen. The characters truly act their age and feel as if they are organically growing into this relationship. Nothing felt forced and it was all just honestly so darn sweet. Both Gideon and Claudia feel so authentic and watching them come together and fall for each other really did give me, a cynic, butterflies. ✗ GRAND MAL SEIZURE MENTION I’ve mentioned this in a few reviews but my mum experiences grand mal seizures due to a domestic violence relationship. It’s scary and epilepsy kills the same amount of people as breast cancer each year. The representation of this is pretty brief in the novel but I picked up on it early on and it meant so much to me that it was included. The book also makes sure to mention that he can’t drink as it can cause seizures – I recently learnt this from several doctors and a neurologist. I felt that the information that was included was well done. ✗ FAMILY DYNAMIC IS PERFECT I think I make it clear in most reviews that I do that I love seeing a tight knit family in a book. Foolish Hearts has exactly that. Claudia has an older brother and sister, as well as a brother-in-law. She relies on all three of them to support her, as does everyone else. Everyone fights but at the end of the day they would all do anything for each other, it is beyond clear in the way they communicate. Not only did Claudia have a great family dynamic but so did Gideon. He has a younger sister and as someone who has a younger sister, she is everything. She’s annoying but definitely has her big brothers back in a way that had me laughing so hard at my Kindle. ✗ FRIENDSHIPS ARE AUTHENTIC A lot of times in books friendships can feel underdeveloped. This wasn’t a problem in Foolish Hearts. Both Claudia and Gideon had their own friendships which were very well developed throughout the book. I want to speak about Gideon’s friendship with Noah. The boys have been friendships since birth basically and support each other so much. I don’t think this is a spoiler, but look away if you don’t want it, but Noah is actually the character who has grand mal seizures. Gideon tries to keep Noah safe no matter what and it was honestly so damn sweet and authentic. Some of the reactions and conversations were ones I have had with my own mother. Claudia doesn’t have as many friends. Her best friend Zoe not really being in the book. We get a real focus on Claudia and Iris’ friendship as it grows. Iris purely hated Claudia because she heard Iris’ girlfriend breaking up with her. However, that isn’t used for any drama throughout the novel. what I didn’t like ✗ THE BEGINNING KIND OF THREW ME OFF THE CHARACTERS At the beginning of the book, we meet Gideon and he’s basically flirting up a storm. I was pretty confused by this and was 100% expecting a love triangle to unfold before my very eyes in this book, between Claudia, Noah and Gideon. It was really a me problem since I saw something in the text that wasn’t there. ✗ I HATE SHAKESPEARE Again, this is a personal factor. The play that Claudia is working on is Midsummer’s Night Dream and I literally can’t stand Shakespeare. My eyes glazed over during the parts because I just can’t make myself care about it, especially since I finished high school. Overall, Foolish Hearts by Emma Mills doesn’t contain a lot of drama or an overarching message. I know this has some varying reviews but it truly was such a nice and comforting read. Gideon and Claudia were such delightful characters to read. I did find myself crying in some parts (particular Noah telling Claudia he has epilepsy). Foolish Hearts is a story that focuses on friendship and family at its core and I love it. ...more |
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1
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Jun 10, 2018
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Jun 11, 2018
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Jun 09, 2018
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Hardcover
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1681190141
| 9781681190143
| 1681190141
| 4.27
| 17,017
| Mar 06, 2018
| Mar 06, 2018
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it was amazing
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CLICK HERE TO SEE MY REVIEW FOR MORE THAN WE CAN TELL ON MY BLOG More Than We Can Tell wasn’t perfect but it has become of my favourite books so quickl CLICK HERE TO SEE MY REVIEW FOR MORE THAN WE CAN TELL ON MY BLOG More Than We Can Tell wasn’t perfect but it has become of my favourite books so quickly it is slightly scary. This book was one that tugged at my heartstrings instantly and made me desperately need a hug. I mentioned this in my review for Letters of the Lost but I actually read this book before the first (oops) so all my emotions hadn’t been stepped on or crushed just yet. This book is such an interesting portrayal of internet friendships, judgment and learning to forgive. That sounds like a weird mix right? Trust me, this book is a bundle that will make you flinch at the rawness of the storyline. This book went to so many places I was and wasn’t expecting. It touched on topics I wasn’t expecting it too and I am ultimately shocked that Brigid Kemmerer did that. I tried to include every trigger I could think of from this book because I want people to be aware of the fact this is not a fluffy book as I did. This book contains very heavy materials that can trigger a number of people so please approach with caution and practice self-care techniques. I believe that More Than We Can Tell is a lot heavier than Letters To The Lost. This book focuses on Declan’s best friend Rev Fletcher, a young man who is battling demons with the support of his adoptive parents. At a young age, Rev was taken away from his father due to abuse. Rev’s father used religion and the Bible as reasons to hurt his son in horrific ways and this in itself is something that will sit with you. Rev receives a letter from his father just after his 18th birthday and it sends him spiralling as the trauma of his childhood comes back to him. A note here: I will not be mentioning religion throughout this book. It is central to the plot of the book but as an atheist, I feel this is something that I can not speak on. Emma Blue is the opposite. In my opinion, she is spoilt and has not experienced a horrific trauma. She loves coding and has built a game from scratch but when an online troll starts to harass her things suddenly change. The pair meet by chance by a church and strike up an unexpected friendship that eventually leads to more. The bond between the pair is almost instant due to the fact they are both struggling due to their personal reasons. The situations for both slowly turn dangerous and the only ones that can help them are each other. I want to briefly mention that the reason this book meant so much to me is the victim of parental abuse. Rev is, for me, a great example of what it is like to come out on the other side but to still hold that guilt and grief and the ‘what if’. I really believe that Brigid Kemmerer dealt with such a serious topic in a sensitive way. Now, enough ramble, time to get into what I did and didn’t like about More Than We Can Tell. what I did like ✗ TRAUMA PORTRAYAL WAS SO RAW This is obviously the biggest point I have for this book. What Rev goes through is so raw and real despite the fact he hasn’t seen his father in ten years. The trauma of abuse is not something that you can shake. This is something that Brigid Kemmerer could have easily screwed around with and not handled delicately but I think she did an excellent job of highlighting the lasting effects. ✗ MESSAGE THAT YOU HAVE TO MAKE YOU HAPPY NOT SOMEONE MAKE YOU HAPPY This is really just real family issues. I won’t touch on it too much because it is quite a large spoiler but I think that this message of making yourself happy and not someone else happy is a strong theme carried through this book. I remember last year Will Smith made an Instagram video where he discussed this topic in relation to his wife Jada. The fact the pair had relied on one another to be happy but really needed to make themselves happy first. It was truly powerful to see that carried through in a YA book. ✗ MALE FRIENDSHIPS This friendship was something that was big in the first book but I feel that looking at it through Rev’s eyes gave it a whole new layer. A layer it really did need and I appreciate. YA fiction really does lack strong friendships in a whole but I really feel as if the male friendships in this series are what we need in this world. Men supporting men is all I want. ✗ THERE’S A DOG!! Not much to say here. I just love dogs. Spoiler, the dog lives the entire book and doesn’t as well. ✗ HARASSMENT PORTRAYAL IN THE GAMING WORLD Emma is a gamer girl and as I said earlier this book really shows the harassment that women go through in the gaming world. This is really central to the plot in More Than We Can Tell and at some points does feel like it is being painted as more serious than what Rev is experiencing. However, the harassment portrayal is pretty spot on from what I’ve read in reviews. Women face harassment simply for playing video games and it doesn’t make sense that this is a ‘mans world’. what I didn’t like ✗ WHERE ARE MY FEMALE FRIENDSHIPS?! The one female friendship we have is with Emma and her best friend. A best friend whose name I have forgotten because her only purpose is for Emma to ridicule her. The best friend is super into makeup and exploring designs on her YouTube channel. Emma spends most of the book laughing at her behind her back and making snarky comments to her face. This best friend played Emma’s game for months in a show of support but Emma is unable to show it back. By the end of the book she hasn’t even rectified her behaviours and it was so frustrating because the friend really did deserve better. ✗ NOT ENOUGH TIME SPENT ON MATTHEW I wanted to see more of a connection built between Rev and Matthew. The pair are foster brothers in the same house who have both experienced different kinds of trauma. I feel that they really could have been a great support for each other but the book cut off before we were really able to see this grow. ✗ WEIRD LOVE TRIANGLE There is a strange love triangle between Emma, Rev and Emma’s gaming friend Ethan. It really didn’t add much to the plot and, honestly, made me super uncomfortable. I am just not a fan of love triangles though. I told my friend the other day that when there is a love triangle I always choose one character and the other becomes meaningless to me that was similar in this case. I won’t say too much because of spoilers though. ✗ EMMA WAS TOO UNLIKEABLE I know, I never thought I’d say it. At times Emma’s attitude irked me. She was still compelling, overall, but the way she treated her parents was infuriating. She was dramatic and constantly had a problem with the fact her mum wanted to best for her. It was so frustrating and at times I wanted to reach into the book and slap her. It was just so annoying to see good YA parents being treated poorly by her. With no consequence too. Overall, More Than We Can Tell clearly had its problems. But, it is still a five star read for me despite all this. I am simply not able to get over how much I loved and enjoyed this book to lower my rating even a smidge. The character Rev is truly the saving grace of this story and his own personal story will stick with me for a long time. I do recommend this book but do not go in expecting a masterpiece because that is not what this is. ...more |
Notes are private!
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1
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Jun 03, 2018
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Jun 04, 2018
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Jun 02, 2018
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Hardcover
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0451490819
| B075HXST4P
| 3.89
| 452,520
| Jun 05, 2018
| Jun 05, 2018
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it was amazing
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THIS REVIEW WAS ORIGINALLY POSTED HERE. FOLLOW MY BLOG TO SEE ALL MY REVIEWS FIRST The Kiss Quotient is officially in my top five books of 2018. I read THIS REVIEW WAS ORIGINALLY POSTED HERE. FOLLOW MY BLOG TO SEE ALL MY REVIEWS FIRST The Kiss Quotient is officially in my top five books of 2018. I read this in literally one sitting and couldn’t put it down at all. It was truly an experience that I love. This book had it all, but down to its core, it was a sexy, smart romance that focused on consent. I will warn you, as I typically do with all my five-star reviews, this review is a mess. My excitement for this book is truly all over the place and I can only really simmer it down to one comment: buy this book. I don’t think it’s fair that so many debut romances are crushing my heart. I can’t handle having so many new favourite authors. To be honest, the synopsis of The Kiss Quotient is perfect but I’m going to attempt to describe it anyway because this is the section of my review in which I do that. This book is told in both the perspective of Stella Lane and Michael Phan. Stella Lane is one who sets the events of the romance into action in this book. As a thirty-year-old woman with autism, she is facing pressure from her parents to give them grandchildren and mild ridicule from her colleagues about her sexual experiences. She decides the best way to do this is to hire a male escort in order to learn how to enjoy sex. This is where Michael Phan comes in. Michael is incredibly careful and carrying of Stella, breaking his own rule of not seeing a client more than once. The pair pushes each other out of the comfort zones that they’ve created due to their personalities. Michael is caring for his sisters and mother with a fear that he will be like his father, a con artist. Both are very stubborn and the relationship that forms between them is honestly so beautiful. I don’t want to say much because I don’t want to spoil anything. I will say this again pick this book up. It is truly an incredible book that I think is up the alley for everyone. Time to stop subtly spoiling things and go into detail about what I liked and didn’t like about the Kiss Quotient. Spoiler? There is only one dislike and it is only me being picky. what I liked ✗ SMART SEXY HEROINE Stella Lane is smart and she is not ashamed of it. She is sexy and she is really an incredible main character. Helen Hoang writes Stella in such an empowering way. I can’t speak on personal experiences here, but I also feel as if the autism representation of Stella is very well done and handled delicately throughout the storyline. ✗ LOVE INTEREST IS THE NEW JOSH TEMPLEMAN I think my love for Sally Thorne’s The Hating Game has been made pretty clear during my time as a reader. However, Michael Phan knocks Joshua Templeman straight out of the park. Michael would beat Joshua senseless. Michael is truly one of the most swoon-worthy main characters. He is truly the man that I would love to have in my life. He is caring, sweet and his relationship with his family is something that I will love for the rest of my life. ✗ SUCH AN EASY STEAMY READ This is really a short point. This book had the perfect sex scenes, honestly. They really sizzled and created a great basis for the book. ✗ CONSENT IS A BIG FOCUS As mentioned earlier, Stella has a problem with people touching her. She isn’t a fan and the three sexual encounters she has had haven’t gone well. Michael realizes this the first night the two share and doesn’t even have sex with her. He decides that making her comfortable is priority and not to do anything unless he has complete consent. Honestly, for anyone who complains that consent isn’t hot read this book. It proves you 100% wrong. what I didn’t like ✗ FAST ROMANCE The romance happened a little too fast for me. I believe it was over a month or two month period? It just made me feel a bit off in some places. I feel we should have seen more of the characters getting to know each other as well. Obviously, if the author had included everything the book would have been too long but I wouldn’t have minded an extra 80 or so pages of just Michael and Stella getting to know each other. Overall, there isn’t a lot I can say about The Kiss Quotient. I feel this is simply a feel-good story that creates the layers for you as you read. It is definitely a book I will recommend to everyone though. This story is truly one that has something for everyone. I feel that no matter what genre you do read that you will enjoy this contemporary romance. I am so excited to write up my favourite books of 2018 list because I know this will be sitting at number one. ...more |
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1
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Jun 08, 2018
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Jun 08, 2018
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May 02, 2018
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Kindle Edition
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4.01
| 5,087
| Mar 08, 2018
| Mar 08, 2018
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it was amazing
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Trigger Warnings: racist comments, homophobic comments, sexism, slut shaming, asshole guys, creepy older men, depression, anxiety, revenge porn, the d
Trigger Warnings: racist comments, homophobic comments, sexism, slut shaming, asshole guys, creepy older men, depression, anxiety, revenge porn, the death of parents, sex (not graphic) THIS REVIEW WAS ORIGINALLY POSTED ON MY BLOG. CLICK HERE TO SEE IT I went in to The Exact Opposite of Okay expecting absolutely nothing. I didn’t think I would even like it. I’d read the first page on my Kindle at least seven times and gone ‘eh no thanks’ before I finally decided to completely jump in. I absolutely loved it. It is one of the most organically real and raw stories I have ever read. The main character is not a person you’re even meant to necessarily like. However, this book exposes so much of the ingrained sexism I had. I hadn’t even bloody noticed and now I am going out of my way to change. This is a feminist novel without ever saying the word. It is a book that makes you evaluate your own personal views. The Exact Opposite of Okay tells the story of Izzy O’Neill through blog posts written by the main character herself. The story is told in days and different times, leaving you feeling as if you’re getting an inside view on Izzy. This story took a turn that I did not exact and I was here for it. All is going well for her until a site is created that starts leaking her sexual experiences, including photos. It’s absolutely disgusting. This person manages to hack the phones of several people to leak even more information. Neither of the boys who are involved in this is ridiculed. Only Izzy. She is labelled a whore and a slut. It is fucking disgusting. Not a single person wants to stand by her, apart from her best friends Danny and Ajita. The story follows the slut-shaming and utter loss that Izzy feels while also having he deal with her best friend Danny’s romantic interest (in which she doesn’t reciprocate). This book is literally just such a delightful and amazing look at the world. The realness of it literally took my breath away and left me sobbing. Not only that but this book also shows what it’s like to not be that smart and to maybe not want to go to college. I know YA books focus largely on this but it’s not everyone’s dream. I don’t want to say too much because I really want people to read this book. Time to jump into what I liked and didn’t like about The Exact Opposite of Okay (spoiler alert, I loved it). Hopefully, some of these reasons will help with your decision to pick up this book. what I liked ✗ SUPPORTIVE FEMALE CHARACTERS Betty (Izzy’s grandmother) and Ajita are the supported female characters I want in my life. Ajita literally throws kiwi fruits at people in support of her best friend and Betty screams down the school. These two female characters are kickass. Not to say that Izzy needed the help but sometimes it is nice to have that support. Also, in situations where slut-shaming and revenge porn are the centre of the story some authors struggle with giving the main character a supportive group of friends and family. I really think the author did an amazing job with this one because she included both while also having Izzy go through her own struggles internally. ✗ UNLIKEABLE MC Okay, it’s not that Izzy is unlikeable. It’s that I know a lot of y’all hate female characters who aren’t nice and the social stereotypes. Not everyone, but a lot of y’all. Izzy literally doesn’t care what anyone thinks of her. She is strong, she is badass, and she will do whatever the fuck she wants with her body. An icon, honestly. Izzy does go through some character development throughout this book but at the end of the day she doesn’t change her fundamental values despite all the ridicule she is facing from people. ✗ SO REALISTIC I’m truly blown away by how realistic this book is. I truly can’t believe it. I can’t talk a lot on the slut-shaming because despite the fact I experienced it (hello girl who told my entire year 12 class I was a slut and made everyone hate me) I don’t feel as if I experienced it on this level. The big thing I found realistic in this was Danny. Danny and Izzy have been best friends since childhood and at the beginning of the book he realizes he likes her. He goes out of his way to shower her with gifts in a very ‘white male privilege’ kind of way. He is a classic ‘nice guy’ and if I haven’t come across SO MANY of those in my life. It was terrifying to see how well the author wrote this particular part of the story and it was truly eye-opening to a lot of my own personal experiences I had brushed off. ✗ SEX CURIOUS MC I did write a whole blog post on this (YA is maturing and it’s good, click here) but it just feels so good to see a female main character to be having sex. It feels weird to write but girls can do whatever the heck they want with their bodies. The disappointing thing is that there is slut-shaming but Izzy isn’t ashamed of the fact she’s had sex. It is not a terrible thing to have sex. If you want to, do it. If you don’t, don’t do it. It is just so delightful to see something so normal represented in fiction. For anyone wondering, the sex is not graphics. Izzy mentions it in her blog posts. ✗ ROMANCE IS THERE BUT PERFECT I was really scared that the romance would take the center stage throughout The Exact Opposite of Okay. It didn’t. There were hints of romance and what’s to come but nothing that makes you go ‘bleh’. I think the author interwove it into the story very well, not giving it the spotlight and allowing Izzy’s struggles to shine through in a way that breaks your heart. what I didn’t like ✗ NEEDED THIS STORY TO BE LONGER I wrote up these likes and dislikes straight after I finished this particular book. Only problem is on this particular dislike is that I’ve just found out this book will has a sequel. So disregard this. The second book will show Izzy dealing with romance, friendships and what to do after high school. Overall, The Exact Opposite of Okay is a book that is going to stay with me for some time. It is truly deep and eye-opening. The story is one that is completely unique. I can happily say I recommend this book completely and will be shoving it into everyone’s arms I can. The Exact Opposite of Okay is one of those novels that will hopefully change YA fiction for the better. ...more |
Notes are private!
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1
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Jun 29, 2018
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Jun 29, 2018
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Apr 26, 2018
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Paperback
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B00DB2YN0C
| 4.46
| 514,737
| Feb 04, 2014
| Feb 04, 2014
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it was amazing
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CLICK HERE TO SEE MY REVIEW FOR IGNITE ME ON MY BLOG Sometimes you have to stick with a series to the end for it to be worth it. Shatter Me is this ser CLICK HERE TO SEE MY REVIEW FOR IGNITE ME ON MY BLOG Sometimes you have to stick with a series to the end for it to be worth it. Shatter Me is this series. Ignite Me was everything and more than what I wanted or expected. It was honestly such a shock, I can barely format the words I need to describe it. This series, and book, in particular, are the definition of character development. I’m aware I’ve said this in like every book for this series, but I just can’t not. It is so well done that I want to read everything this author has ever put in the world. I obviously had some problems but I really feel as if this book is deserving of the five stars I’ve given it. I mean, I’m so damn excited for the fourth book to come out in the next few days (possibly already out when this review goes live). Ignite Me is where shit gets real for Juliette. It’s where the climax happens and she takes charge. I honestly can’t say much about the plot without spoiling the entire book, so I’m going to try and keep this brief. She faces problems with romance; obviously, due to Adam being the turd he was always destined. The action in this book is fast paced (which, I’ll get into later in this review). There’s a lot of moments that left me with my jaw dropped, unable to believe what was happening. I was blown away, honestly. This is the conclusion to end all other conclusions. I really didn’t talk about the plot for Ignite Me at all. So, let’s just jump into a more descriptive list of my likes and dislikes of this book. If you’ve read this book, let me know your thoughts in the comments too! Did you enjoy this series? L I K E S ✗ KENJI IS MY FAVE Honestly, Keni is amazing. I’ve been meaning to talk about him in my other reviews but around my love for Warner and hate for Adam I kept forgetting #oops. However, I feel like he was really spotlighted in this book. He also had the best power in my opinion, the ability to go invisible is up there for me (I mean, Violet was my favourite in The Incredibles). He doesn’t hold back and is Juliette’s best friend. It is always enjoyable to see a platonic boy/girl friendship in fiction as well, especially where neither one is interested in the other romantically. I really hope we get more of his backstory in Restore Me because I am so interested. I’ve also been seeing theories that he will be queer and I am 100% into this possible storyline. ✗ WARNER SPITS SOME TRUTH A lot of this series has been people coddling Juliette. She hasn’t been forced to make decisions or known a lot of the information. Everyone seems to tiptoe around her in order to make her feel safe and unafraid. Which is all nice, but man does it feel like a weak main character in some parts. Warner thankfully saves the day in Ignite Me and spits some truth. He says things I’ve been thinking since the first book and it felt so good to see it on paper (well, screen, I read on my kindle). I also loved hearing that my theory was right. I love it. ✗ OK BUT REAL TALK THIS IS UP IN TOP TEN COVERS Not much to say on this, just how fucking gorgeous is this cover? Man, I finished this book and just stared at the cover for like twenty minutes it was so beautiful. What are some of your favourite covers? ✗ JULIETTE IS MY QUEEN Juliette reached the level of one of my ultimate favourite female characters to exist. I’m as shocked as you are. Considering it took me three reads of the first book to even get here I wasn’t expecting this at all. However, I am pleasantly surprised and not mad at all. Juliette hits all new levels in Ignite Me. She really comes into herself. She really makes decisions for herself and she really becomes the hero so many young adults need. Someone combating PTSD, anxiety and depression has the ability to be a hero and I feel like that’s important. She is honestly such a powerful young adult this series and I will not tolerate any slander against her. ✗ WARNER AND JULIETTE I don’t think this is a topic I have to say much on either. I feel as if this is an obvious one that would have a wink wink, nudge nudge attached to it. These two have hit my ultimate OTP lists and I am absolutely in love with the pair of them together. The chemistry and the love written on the page is so clear. No matter how creepy I still think some elements are, I can definitely swoon over this OTP. ✗ WARNER DEVELOPMENT This could also be viewed as lack of development. Warner both changes as a character and doesn’t. The changes happen through him revealing information about himself – which makes me think this story is very character driven, something I am not usually interested in – not him actively changing himself. He shares pieces of himself with Juliette and changes how we look at him, not actually changing how he thinks. Which, I think is a really interesting tactic that I appreciate the author using. It’s not one I see a lot in books. ✗ I LOVE THE POWERS This is kind of irrelevant but I love the fantasy element of powers being added, making it urban fantasy. It reminds me of The Darkest Minds which I love. Though in a similar way it kind of feels as if everyone in this book has powers as well. Would have been interesting if someone didn’t have powers. ✗ MENTAL HEALTH DEVELOPMENT This particular point is super important to me as someone who has a mental health issues. I’m really talking about this as what happens over the course of all the books too. There are so many issues represented throughout the text and it really does shock me. I feel as if the main three are what I presume Juliette suffers with – PTSD, anxiety and depression (as I mentioned before). I feel like seeing these in the text and with Juliette’s growth I really feel empowered. I have all three of these particular mental health diagnoses and I feel they were represented beautifully throughout the entirety of Shatter Me. The ascension from a quiet girl into someone who cannot be silenced is a journey I have taken myself and it’s not an easy one, which I feel like is well represented in this series. ✗ CANT WAIT FOR RESTORE ME I straight up can’t wait. Someone get this book in my hands now. I wish I had timed this more perfectly with the release, but I guess I just get more excited in the waiting period. D I S L I K E S ✗ ADAM IS A TURD PART THREE Honestly, no redemption arc for Adam, please. It is all I want in the world. Truly. I hate him so damn much and to see him suffer would be great. I love James, but Adam can be a turd elsewhere. I feel as if Ignite Me really solidified this as well. He just really switched and become one of those ‘nice guys’ who lose it when they’re rejected. It was just lowkey uncomfortable and had me thinking he was basically waving warning flags all over the place. Boo hoo, you didn’t get the girl. There’s a war going on you, dickhead, protect your brother and stop acting like someone ate the last tasteless blob in existence. ✗ IT IS ALL OVER SO FAST Within a few pages and chapters, all the action is over. I was left feeling like ‘what?’ It felt like there was so much build up and there should have been more. I understand it was to show how powerful Juliette had become but I really just wanted more from the final scenes but nope. It’s all over so fast and it is so damn easy. I really feel like there should have been more suspense. ✗ NOT ENOUGH GIRLS ARE THEY ALL DEAD I think the weird heading things I use says it all. There was a total of five females who had dialogue in this book – including Juliette. How ridiculous is that? There was like five men in the first chapter alone. I would love to see Juliette get a female best friend in Restore Me. Overall, this series sincerely deserves the hype it has received. I’m so glad I finally forced myself to push through because I am so thankfully shocked and happy to have been apart of this ride. The Shatter Me series is a heartbreaking series in which no one actually really dies. It is a complicated world in which grows over each book and has such a powerful message in the end. I never thought I’d say this but I recommend it. ...more |
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Feb 25, 2018
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Feb 25, 2018
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Feb 24, 2018
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Kindle Edition
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1501165836
| 9781501165832
| 1501165836
| 3.78
| 78,558
| Dec 05, 2017
| Dec 05, 2017
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really liked it
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FIND MY ROOMIES REVIEW ON MY BLOG - THE FORMAT IS MUCH BETTER R E V I E W Roomies by Christina Lauren shocked me. I usually struggle with romances, with FIND MY ROOMIES REVIEW ON MY BLOG - THE FORMAT IS MUCH BETTER R E V I E W Roomies by Christina Lauren shocked me. I usually struggle with romances, with them being cliché and difficult to get through due to being predictable. I personally find dual POV romance books the most difficult to force myself through, which is neither here nor now. Roomies was the book I needed. It was short, it was sweet and it actually had a plotline that engaged me. I would put this book on the same level of The Hating Game by Sally Thorne. It has a similar slow burn, not as much humour but definitely easy to binge. The characters were easy to connect to and the main character struggled with someone I personally have – not allowing yourself to focus on you and always putting others before you. Roomies is the story of Holland. It’s a story of Holland coming into her own and truly becoming herself. Holland works for her uncle’s very successful musical theatre production while her uncles’ pay most of her rent. She has an MFA in creative writing but is yet to use it – the words not coming to her. She meets Calvin after watching him busk for six months on the train station, with some liquid courage she introduces herself and not even ten minutes later is pushed onto the tracks and breaks her arm. Returning to work she finds that the violinist has quit just weeks before a new lead is taking over, creating a stir. Holland offers up Calvin and his musical talents, he smashes out the audition and when asked if he wants the position he informs them that he has been living illegally in America for four years. A bit of a tricky situation. So, a sham marriage is conjured up between Calvin and Holland. Only feelings begin to grow and the situation between the pair goes sticky because nothing is ever easy in romance books. Roomies by Christina Lauren is a story about love, music, and passion. It’s a story about the importance of family and about realising some people are toxic in your life. I mean, let’s jump into expanding on what I liked and disliked about Roomies, I think I’ve babbled enough. L I K E S ✗ MUSICAL THEATRE INCLUSION SMASHED IT OUT OF THE PARK I’m not a big musical theatre person. I find some songs on certain tracks amazing and obviously I love both High School Musical and Hamilton, but I’m not interested completely. I have seen The Lion King in Sydney, though, if that counts? I did love the inclusion of this passion in Roomies. I find romance books, for me, that are set in offices tend to stay still with the characters never revealing their passions, which makes me feel as if there is a piece of glass between me and the characters. Seeing that passion, plus the passion for creative writing from Holland, was just beautiful. It’s what kept me reading and involved with the characters. ✗ BE YOUR OWN MAIN CHARACTER This is the message of the book. Be the main character of your story. Don’t keep pushing away what you’re feeling and your ambitions to help others. Don’t let yourself take the backseat in your own life and not live it. I’m very guilty of this, which made me connect to Holland even more. I realised while reading Roomies just how much I do do it. ✗ SLOW BURN RELATIONSHIP I love a slow burn relationship. Like shit, they hit me in my soul. I definitely prefer them than fast-paced romances that happen over the course of days. I love that Roomies took place over the period of months. The events, in the beginning, happened fast, but the relationship between the characters came much later in the book. It just gave me time to root for the relationship and fall just as in love as Holland with the gorgeous Irishman in this book. ✗ ACTUAL HUMOUR – NON OF THAT AWKWARD SHIT Another thing I typically struggle within books is that the humour makes me want to die. Not in a good way. It makes me squirm uncomfortably and really just want to exit stage left. Most of the time I skim those books or just flat out DNF because I can’t handle the jokes. Roomies had humour that actually made me laugh and smile at my kindle. I was actually enjoying it, which is rare. D I S L I K E S ✗ COMMUNICATION FIXES DRAMA, YOU IDIOTS Hello folks, I’d like to introduce you to communication. Ah yes, this simple thing called talking. It also continues with the fact that one should be truthful. Oh, how I love how couples withhold the truth and get into fights over it. Oh, the useless drama really makes me happy. The drama in this book made me want to slam my head against a wall because it wasn’t only communicating with each other, it was not communicating with others. It was just so infuriating and I got mad at the characters when it occurred because someone gives me a baseball bat to hit this daft love interest. ✗ UNSUPPORTIVE FRIENDSHIPS Now, this was one element of the story I also liked. The best friend is super unsupportive and she is the only other female character in the book, something I didn’t like. This character only cares about herself and if the drama isn’t on her it’s irrelevant. Which, sounds like a few people in my life. I like how the book showed it’s okay to get rid of people like that from your life but I wish there had been a larger friend group for Holland than just her family and this girl. I feel like Calvin had a friend group, that was established as quite large but Holland was just left floating aimlessly with no one. Which, is how life is sometimes, but still I need my supportive female friendships in books. Overall, Roomies was good. Really good. I can’t even really grasp how much I did enjoy this book. It’s a shock. If you’re in a bit of a funk, I highly recommend picking up this book because it is an instant pick me up. Also, if you're looking to buy any books over at Book Depository, feel free to use my affiliate link! I gain a small 5% commission at no extra cost to you. ...more |
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1
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Feb 18, 2018
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Feb 19, 2018
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Feb 17, 2018
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Paperback
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1368012353
| 9781368012355
| 1368012353
| 4.10
| 26,122
| Mar 27, 2018
| Mar 27, 2018
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it was amazing
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FIND MY REVIEW FOR ARU SHAH AND THE END OF TIME ON MY BLOG. CLICK HERE TO SEE MORE I think I’ve made it pretty clear over time that I am a big fan of R FIND MY REVIEW FOR ARU SHAH AND THE END OF TIME ON MY BLOG. CLICK HERE TO SEE MORE I think I’ve made it pretty clear over time that I am a big fan of Rick Riordan. I love mythology and I love learning through his books. When Riordan announced that he was going to publish own voices authors take on mythology I was beyond excited. Aru Shah and the End of Time was no exception of this. I fell in love, fast. One reason was that it was a female lead, something we don’t typically see in Riordan’s work. An Indian female lead is something that holds incredible importance, and just to see Hindu mythology accurately represented. 12-year-old Aru Shah has a habit of telling lies. She lies about basically everything to the people at her school so they don’t look at her as weird, the joys of being middle class in a rich school. One day she’s caught out in the lie when three people from her school come to where she lives – she lives in a museum, like how cool is that?! Things turn pretty nasty quickly with one of these three kids recording Aru as an attempt to get her to tell the truth. Instead, she decides to light a lamp that, as her mother says, is cursed. Unfortunately for Aru, the lamp is cursed. A powerful individual is let free and everyone around her is now frozen in time. With the help of a pigeon guide, Aru discovers she has the soul of the great Pandava brothers. Along the way, Aru meets one of her sisters (because there are no brothers in this generation) and must go on a quest in order to stop the powerful individual she let go free. Simultaneously she must come to terms with being a demigod and how much her mother has hidden from her. Oh, and the best part? Aru must do all this in her spider-man pyjamas as if that isn’t a look. I really loved Aru Shah and the End of Time. It was such a thrilling tale of mystery, surprise and, my favourite, humour. The writing of this particular story came across as pretty flawless. I also know, that if anyone reading this is like me you’re expecting this story to be basically identical to Percy Jackson. I’m here to say you’re wrong. This book completely holds its own and, dare I say it, is even better than Percy Jackson in some ways. It was truly such an important book and I am desperately waiting for book two! Anyway, let me jump into a more detailed version of what I did and didn’t like about Aru Shah and the End of Time by Roshani Chokshi. L I K E S ✗ HINDU GODS > GREEK GODS Hear me out, I grew up learning about the Greek gods in school. When I picked up Percy Jackson for the first time I had a big understanding of all the variations. It made it a little boring for me, honestly. I know nothing about Hindu gods. This particular topic wasn’t taught in my schools (I went to 9 over 13 years, as a little fun fact). I know own voices books don’t exist to teach the public anything but I really did love learning about the Hindu gods. I have been deeply curious about the mythology for some time and I don’t trust Google, so it was just great to read something that I was unfamiliar with. Also, the Hindu gods weren’t as big of jerks as the Greek gods in Rick Riordan’s books, also a positive for me. ✗ THE CHARACTERS ARE HILARIOUS The humour in this book is amazing. I was giggling and smiling almost the entire book and I’m not even the target audience. It was just such a fun journey that I can’t screech and rave about this book enough. The humour was similar to that of Percy Jackson, dry and most of the time from the main character being unable to shut up, but I just feel as if this particular style was better suited for the target audience. It felt like I could give this book to one of my cousins and she would be laughing along with me. ✗ I LOVE BOO Boo is the pigeon guide that Aru and her Pandava sister Mimi are given. He’s not exactly the best guide nor does he really have the patience for two young preteens, but man was he hilarious. His character really brought Mimi and Aru together, and just the whole idea of a pigeon leading two girls on a quest makes me chuckle. To be fair though, I despise birds so the fact I even found this amusing shocks me a little. ✗ FEMALE FRIENDSHIPS If you’ve known me for a little while you know I am a big pusher of female friendships in books. I live for them. I love when two girls support one another rather than tearing each other down. Mimi and Aru gave me this. The two are young and it would have been easy to write two girls that hated each other but Roshani Chokshi didn’t, and I loved it. The girls obviously bickered and struggled at some points, but they’d also only just met and been informed they were sisters which can put a strain on any time making friends. 2018 is the year of supportive friendships and I’m here for it. ✗ CANT WAIT FOR BOOK TWO Do I have to elaborate on this? After the ending of Aru Shah and the End of Time, I desperately have grabby hands for book two. This series will also finish when I’m 24 and if you don’t think I’m going to read every single one, you’re wrong. I am here for this series. D I S L I K E S ✗ I FELT ARU SOMETIMES STEPPED BACK IN THE STORY AND HER VOICE GOT LOST I’m really just nitpicking here, but it did feel as if Aru got lost at points. Obviously this a big quest and a whole bit about discovering who you are but I just wanted more. It did seem at points that Aru was morally grey but in truth, she is simply a preteen trying to find her place in the world and her identity. I’m interested to see if she does become morally grey throughout the course of this four book series. I stand by the fact though there should have been a little more focus on Aru’s feelings and emotions at some points. Overall, Aru Shah and the End of Time blew my socks off. I was not expecting anything that this book delivered and I’m slightly annoyed that it took me so long to even pick this up. The hype really stands true for this book, it is well deserving of your money and your time. ...more |
Notes are private!
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1
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Apr 14, 2018
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Apr 15, 2018
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Feb 07, 2018
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Hardcover
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1616958472
| 9781616958473
| 1616958472
| 3.75
| 13,873
| Jan 16, 2018
| Jan 16, 2018
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really liked it
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REVIEW CAN ALSO BE FOUND HERE, AMONG OTHERS, ON MY BLOG Trigger Warnings: Islamophobia, terrorism, white supremacy mentions, bullying R E V I E W Love, H REVIEW CAN ALSO BE FOUND HERE, AMONG OTHERS, ON MY BLOG Trigger Warnings: Islamophobia, terrorism, white supremacy mentions, bullying R E V I E W Love, Hate and Other Filters deserve all the hype. I was pretty much sucked into the story straight away. I feel like this book is one almost everyone needs to pick up. Not for the fact, it is beautifully diverse but because I feel like the plot really held an important message to follow your dreams despite the opinions of others. Adding to the importance of this book, its #ownvoices. Which I will do my best to edit this post and include #ownvoices reviews when they come along. I won’t be speaking on any of the diversity because it really isn’t my lane to talk about the culture or inclusion, I will be talking about the plot and characters instead. L I K E S ✗ NOT YOUR TYPICAL STORY Maya wasn’t your typical YA heroine. Love, Hate and Other Filters wasn’t your typical story either. I’m not even sure how to really put it into words but it felt different. There was more depth in this contemporary novel than many others I have read. I mean, obviously there’s a focus on romance in this book considering the title has the word ‘love’ in it but it really doesn’t become the centre of the plot. Maya is dedicated to following her dreams of becoming a filmmaker, which I’ll talk more about in my next point. It was just so great to see a female character not forget her ambition or even be embarrassed by what she wants to do, even after a boy is introduced to the plot. I am so tired of seeing that point used time and time again. I mean, one of the most important things to me is that the romance didn’t continue once the book ended. I’m typically not an open endings fan, but in this case, I feel it really went well with the story. ✗ PASSION ISN’T FORGOTTEN FOR A BOY This was probably my favourite of all things. The main character continues recording and filming whenever she is with the boy. He even supports it and talks to the camera. It was honestly really sweet. But, Maya’s goals never wavered. She was going to go to New York and be the first Indian woman to win an award for her films. I just love to see young women following their aspirations and not being deterred. ✗ WRITING IS INCREDIBLE I really can’t say much on this point. The writing is incredible. Honestly. I can’t speak on the accuracy of the cultural aspects but I presume it is similar to what Samira Ahmed grew up with. I just love the style itself, it was captivating and so easy to follow. D I S L I K E S ✗ DISAPPEARING FRIEND ACT My main problem with Love, Hate and Other Filters is that there was the disappearing friend act from Maya’s best friend. It seemed the friend was only there when she proved useful. Obviously, when she was useful she was. But, every other time it seemed she disappeared, either out of the country or just there as a convenient reason for Maya to lie to her parents. Which, obviously all teenagers do but the friend really stayed on the sidelines of everything and was just there to encourage Maya to do what she wanted and disregard her religion. ✗ MAYA’S RELIGION IS NEVER THOUGHT OF It seemed that Maya never once thought of God or her religion, only disgruntledly thinking about it in regard to her parents. That’s all I’ll say on the matter because I am not religious in the slightest and I don’t want to disrespect anyone by accident. Overall, Love, Hate and Other Filters quickly reached one of my top favourite books of the year and it’s only January. I am so excited to read more of Samira’s work! I just don’t have enough words to describe this book. If you're looking to buy any books over at Book Depository (you definitely should!), feel free to use my affiliate link! I gain a small 5% commission at no extra cost to you. (I highly recommend purchasing this particular book!) ...more |
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Jan 28, 2018
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Jan 28, 2018
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Jan 18, 2018
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Hardcover
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1250170974
| 9781250170972
| 1250170974
| 4.11
| 229,685
| Mar 06, 2018
| Mar 06, 2018
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it was amazing
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A MASTERPIECE. AMAZING. I NEED MORE. NEW FAVOURITE AUTHOR. FULL REVIEW TO COME. |
Notes are private!
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1
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Mar 15, 2018
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Mar 16, 2018
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Dec 22, 2017
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Hardcover
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0062678108
| 9780062678102
| 0062678108
| 4.15
| 127,573
| Nov 14, 2017
| Nov 14, 2017
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it was amazing
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Thank you Harper Collins Australia for sending me an ARC in exchange for an honest review. my review is on my blog, check it out! M I N I R E V I E W The Thank you Harper Collins Australia for sending me an ARC in exchange for an honest review. my review is on my blog, check it out! M I N I R E V I E W The City of Brass was a book I was cautious of when I was requesting it. I was a bit nervous because it is so big. 520 pages, to be exact. I find that sometimes the longer the book the more bored I get throughout. However, this wasn’t the case at all. The City of Brass is an enchanting and alluring story that grips you from the very first page. Every single character has a layer of depth, I literally mean every single one to even the side characters who are only around for a few pages. From the very first page, you are sucked into a world of magic and Egypt. I say Egypt purely because I adored reading a book set in the environment. I think the only book I’ve read that has gone to Egpyt is the Kane Chronicles by Rick Riordan. But, that’s off topic. You follow one of the main characters of The City of Brass, Nahri on her journey of discovery throughout this book. Learning her origins, what her past is and what is expected of her. It was honestly pretty heartbreaking at times to read. Though, I adored reading the main character who wasn’t perfect. Nahri has done what she has to survive and it might not be the most ethical but she has done it and she’s not ashamed. She was so damn strong in her own right and learning about her culture throughout the book was so interesting. The other perspective we get in this book is from Ali. A prince for his people but viewed as a religious fanatic. He’s basically the opposite to Nahri and it was incredibly interesting to read the dynamic between the pair. In the grand sense of it, neither character is meant to be viewed as a good character either. They have flaws that are very obvious in the text. The writing within The City of Brass was just spectacular as well. I’m honestly speechless since this is a debut. This book reads a lot better than some authors with many books published. The imagery is done so well and not at all overdone, coming from someone who usually gets frustrated with metaphors. The language use was just spectacular. I obviously can’t speak about the muslim representation throughout this book but the author is an own voices author, so I adored learning her persptive on her culture and how it incoperated into this book. I’m so excited to read more! It is a book full of betrayal, wishes and magic. It is complex and full of politics. At some stages, I didn’t understand what was happening but I never once cared majorly due to the absolute incredible cast of characters in this debut, own voices novel. The City of Brass is a must read. Put it on your December or January TBR’s, because I promise you won’t regret it. ...more |
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Dec 09, 2017
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Dec 10, 2017
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Nov 03, 2017
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Hardcover
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1419728725
| 9781419728723
| 1419728725
| 3.47
| 1,596
| Jun 12, 2018
| Jun 12, 2018
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really liked it
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Trigger Warnings: death, car accident, grief, depression, anxiety, underage drinking, drugs MY REVIEW FOR FINAL DRAFT BY RILEY REDGATE CAN BE FOUND ON Trigger Warnings: death, car accident, grief, depression, anxiety, underage drinking, drugs MY REVIEW FOR FINAL DRAFT BY RILEY REDGATE CAN BE FOUND ON MY BLOG. CLICK HERE TO SEE Elise @ The Bookish Actress has Final Draft in her Twitter name, so obviously, it meant I had to pick it up. Elise is my #1 go to for f/f romance and she is yet to let me down. I’m not even sure how to begin describing Final Draft by Riley Redgate. Honestly, I am still mildly speechless and I finished the book yesterday (this review has been scheduled for a while, oops). Final Draft is a book that evokes so much emotion. The best way to describe it is that it is organic. It’s a strange word choice, but honestly, it fits so perfectly. This book has such a realistic look at life and teenage emotions. Riley Redgate doesn’t try to shove a perfect character at us. Instead, we have a flawed MC who struggles with her passion, writing. It is just so amazing (I really don’t have the right words for this) to see a character who isn’t perfect at everything and struggles. The character depth that the author manages to create throughout this pretty short novel also deserves to be noted. Why should you read Final Draft though? Let’s get into the plot a little bit. This book follows a pansexual biracial Ecuadorian plus size with anxiety lead Laila. Laila is best described as a ‘good girl’. While all her friends are getting fake ID’s and sneaking into clubs at 18, taking drugs and simply living with a ‘who cares’ attitude Laila prefers to sit at home and write her story for her creative writing class. However, an unfortunate accident leaves her original teacher in the hospital (whom Laila loves) and brings in a best selling author to teach the students. Laila becomes obsessed with getting her approval and it leads to an honest look at a teenager experiencing things for the first time. There is also a bit of a romance sprinkled through the story as Laila discovers her sexuality, however, this definitely doesn’t feel as if it is the main focal point throughout this novel and that Riley Redgate chooses to focus on Laila’s teenage struggles a lot more. Honestly, the plot is so beautifully woven and technical. I am truly struggling to find words in which will help describe it to its perfection. Final Draft does not feel as if it is one thing. It feels like several and they are all so beautifully done that I can’t help but scream at you to pick up this book. Anyway, time to jump into my section of the review where I talk about what I did and didn’t like about the book. what I liked ✗ A MESSY AND BEAUTIFUL LOOK AT LIFE I said it in my ramble bit of this review, but this book is so fucking organic. There is such a beautiful and raw look at life it is shocking. I remember three years ago when I graduated high school struggling with the possibility of all my friends moving away for university and struggling with the choice myself, as well as not receiving the marks I had hoped for. The way Riley Redgate writes Laila in Final Draft is so spot on for most 18-year-olds about to hit this transitional period of their life. Not only that, but there is the underlying theme of trying to prove yourself. I completely related to that and Laila’s struggles of not ‘fitting’ in with her friends. While all her friends were drinking, doing drugs, and going illegally to clubs she wasn’t interested in that. I was that way inclined during my final year of high school and my friends all thought I was whacky because I didn’t see drinking as the highlight of the week. I really just feel as if the author managed to make these feelings so damn relatable. ✗ SO. MUCH. CHARACTER. DEPTH. This isn’t a long book. It doesn’t even hit 300 pages. Yet, the author was able to include so much character depth in the short amount of time. Not a single character reads as one-dimensional and I was completely enthralled by each and every character backstory. ✗ ANXIETY REP WAS SO SPOT ON I mentioned earlier just how much representation there is with Laila (pansexual, biracial, Ecuadorian, plus size, anxiety). I can’t speak on a lot of the representations in this book as someone who is white and straight. I can speak about the anxiety though and how it spoke to me throughout the book. The author manages to pull the empathy from you subtly throughout the story and truly is such a raw and realistic look at being an anxious teen in high school. ✗ SUPPORTIVE FAMILY AND FRIENDS Y’all know I love supportive friends and family, this is something that Final Draft delivered so fucking well. I can’t even begin to describe how (a common theme with this book) but it was something that was inspiring. The characters truly are all there for Laila during her hardest times and even though she rejects their help a lot of the time they don’t leave her and I think that is what YA books need. Additionally, one of the friends ends up being the love interest and this may be spoilers but I don’t care that much. Because this was a beautiful f/f book that featured a Korean lesbian. what I didn’t like ✗ STORY FELT A LITTLE CLUNKY IN PLACES This is only a really mild complaint, but I feel that in some places of Final Draft the story could have been revised. It really felt as if there were so many emotions in certain parts that the story got a little cluttered. At times it also felt as if the author lost her thread of the story and took a page or two to get back on track. However, this really isn’t as noticeable as I may think it is. I think I was just looking for something to write in this section of my review. ✗ A DOG IS BRIEFLY MENTIONED BUT WE DONT GET MORE This isn’t really a dislike. I just wanted to be lowkey funny. I just absolutely love when dogs are included in books and I feel that the dog in Final Draft didn’t get put in the spotlight enough. Overall, read Final Draft. This book will break your heart and repair it simultaneously. I cried, I smiled, I gasped. It was a bloody whirlwind of emotions and I invite you to take it and tell me what you thought. This book was so in touch with teenagers and, just overall, emotion. I can’t scream about it enough. ...more |
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1
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Jun 24, 2018
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Jun 25, 2018
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Oct 23, 2017
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Hardcover
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1408349906
| 9781408349908
| 1408349906
| 4.16
| 4,267
| Jun 07, 2018
| Jun 07, 2018
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really liked it
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thank you Hachette Australia for sending me a copy in exchange for an honest review. all thoughts are my own. Trigger Warnings: physical abuse, emotion thank you Hachette Australia for sending me a copy in exchange for an honest review. all thoughts are my own. Trigger Warnings: physical abuse, emotional abuse, anxiety, depression, PTSD, lack of food, poverty, major injury, graphic violence YOU CAN ALSO FIND MY REVIEW FOR THIS BOOK OVER ON MY BLOG I was beyond excited to be able to receive an Australian authors debut novel. I absolutely love supporting other Australian’s and if I was still in high school I definitely would have chosen to do an analysis of this book. I mean, it is just so amazing to read a book that is set in Australia. Very rarely do I understand what is happening in the surroundings of books set in America or England. I find myself googling the terrain and weather more times than I can count in order to understand things A Thousand perfect Notes by CG Drews was that perfect feeling of Australia. I feel that A Thousand Perfect Notes hits the mark of a heartbreaking tale of a passion becoming an obsession. This was honestly one of the best debuts I have read to date and I have no problem recommending it highly. I did have some problems. Mainly that I felt that the romance was a little forced; I would have preferred the two characters simply be friends over what developed. However, that was all good by the end of the novel – without spoiling too much, ha. A Thousand Perfect Notes follows Beck, a pianist who simply wants his mum to be proud of him. He practices until his fingers bleed and until his whole body hurts. However, he can’t play the tunes his mother used to play as well as she and that results in the hatred she has for him. Beck is virtually alone. The only person who he really talks to is his little sister, who has a habit of being a bit cruel to other kids at her school and swearing at everyone in German. That is until Beck is partnered with August for a school project. She is irritating and won’t leave Beck alone no matter how hard he tries to get her to. Over time a friendship between the pair grows and it allows Beck to feel like maybe, in this world where his mother controls every bit of his life, that he is not alone. That is something I absolutely loved about this book because it was something I have experienced in my own life. I am truly struggling to put my thoughts and feelings into words to describe this book. I’m not sure I expected it to be as powerful as what I did find it. I was cautious when it came to the representation of abuse in this novel and with how short this novel is I got nervous about how well the topic would be dealt with. I am pleased to say that I found it well done. L I K E S ✗ ACCURATE REPRESENTATION I’ve said it a few times in this review and maybe it is a spoiler, but I truly feel the representation of abuser and victim in this book is well done. It was something that allowed you to feel major compassion for the victim and you never felt an ounce of sympathy for the abuser – despite their tragic backstory. The feelings in which Beck felt as well were something I have personally experienced. That helplessness and that feeling of being able to do nothing. The hope of escape is never there and until you find someone who lets you know just how wrong your situation is, a change can’t happen. I just love it so much. ✗ SIBLING RELATIONSHIPS I think CG Drews mastered the difficulty of a sibling relationship. Things are perfect, especially in an abuse situation. Things are difficult as heck and the siblings will sometimes take it out on each other because that is how you’ve seen the parent treat the other. It is messy and hard and was so well done in this book. I loved that fact Beck felt a loyalty to his sister no matter how badly she treated him and he was so loving to her despite never having been taught what love is. ✗ MUSIC IS SO BEAUTIFULLY WOVEN IN Now, hear me out, I know nothing about music. I’m serious. The only instrument I was good at was the recorder, and no one likes recorder. So, Beck playing the piano I barely understand it. However, I feel like the music was so wonderfully woven into the storyline. From the emotions that Beck felt towards it, the obsession, and the longing. To the ridged feeling that it would bring him to play, I feel that A Thousand Perfect Notes succeeded in delivering a story that thrived on both passion and obsession of the instrument. D I S L I K E S ✗ SOME DIALOGUE FELT AWKWARD I just felt as if some of the exchanges between August and Beck felt forced on the page like they could have happened elsewhere. I’m not sure if this was a technique used by the author but I seriously just wasn’t able to relate or connect to some of the exchanges. It didn’t feel like teenagers at sometimes. It’s difficult to describe, but I just feel like it should have been looked over once more because it was just strange in some places. ✗ OCCASIONAL TIMES WHEN THE WRITING FELL FLAT This book is short but at some times the story dragged. It felt as if it could have been shortened, which I never say. Simply at times there felt there were many useless scenes, and I will say that I think without the romance between August and Beck this book would have gone a lot smoother and have carried the story through to the end – which means it would have been a five star read. Overall, I really did enjoy A Thousand Perfect Notes. It allowed me to acknowledge just how far in my own personal recovery I have come. It was also a gut-wrenching story that will have you on the edge of your seat. Abuse is not romanticized in this book and it is shown in such a realistic and graphic way that it will make you sick. I am beyond excited to read more by CG Drews as she furthers her writing career. ...more |
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1
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May 08, 2018
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May 08, 2018
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Oct 20, 2017
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Paperback
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1501139231
| 9781501139239
| 1501139231
| 4.42
| 3,233,176
| Jun 13, 2017
| Jun 13, 2017
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it was amazing
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THIS REVIEW IS ALSO ON MY BLOG Trigger Warnings: abuse, cheating, alcoholism, drugs, death of a parent, death of a spouse, sexism, homophobia and racis THIS REVIEW IS ALSO ON MY BLOG Trigger Warnings: abuse, cheating, alcoholism, drugs, death of a parent, death of a spouse, sexism, homophobia and racism R E V I E W The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo wasn’t a book I wasn’t really expecting to enjoy. I was expecting it to fall into the category of ‘meh’ contemporaries I’ve read and forgotten within the other. That is so wrong. Evelyn Hugo is an icon I will be remembering for many years to come. Evelyn Hugo herself is a queen and someone who deserves countless respect throughout the novel. This doesn’t mean she doesn’t make mistakes though because she does. She is powerful though and fought for every step of her career. Coming from literally nothing and reaching the top is nothing to turn your nose up, no matter the way you achieve that level. The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo is the story fo Evelyn Hugo herself. Her husbands? Irrelevant. This is the story of how an interracial, bisexual woman fought her way to the top and was not afraid to take down who was in her way. Evelyn Hugo fought to reach the peak of her Hollywood career with her body and hiding who she was. She makes countless mistakes that could lead to her downfall but she protects herself. Evelyn comes first. However, as her life draws to a close she wants the people to know the real Evelyn. The one is hidden away. Now that everyone she has ever loved has passed on she can tell the story with it having no ill effect on her or anyone she vowed to protect. She commissions Monique Grant, a journalism writer, to write her biography. The book is full of strength and admiration, from both woman, showing who they really are and learning from each other. I had seen The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo gaining popularity of Twitter — with people praising the queer aspects of the books and Evelyn’s explanations of things like bisexuals. I can’t speak on the rep of the queer elements in this book, at all, but from what I’ve gauged it is done well. I was expecting there to be a queer romance throughout the book but considering the book is titled Evelyn’s seven husbands I wasn’t sure how it would play out in the book. Would the woman be classed as an eighth marriage? I was shocked (and ecstatic) that the woman is introduced while Evelyn is married to her second husband, meaning it carries through the entire book. I also like Monique Grant, the writer that Evelyn has commissioned to write her story. We didn’t get much of her perspective, but when we did I loved seeing the growth she went through, from a meek girl who was unafraid to live her life to someone who was fearless. Her struggles are relevant and real, her failed marriage heartbreaking but her story inspiring. Overall, this book is one I couldn’t put down. I finished it in one day, something I haven’t done in a while due to a slump I’ve been in. The story itself is intense, heartbreaking and contains many triggers for people reading it. I have tried to list all I can but practice self-care while reading this. I can’t reccomend this book more though. Evelyn Hugo is a story that will live in me for many years and be on my highly recommended books for years. Also, if you're looking to buy any books over at Book Depository, feel free to use my affiliate link! I gain a small 5% commission at no extra cost to you. ...more |
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1
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Jan 07, 2018
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Jan 07, 2018
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Oct 07, 2017
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Hardcover
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0316341711
| 9780316341714
| 0316341711
| 4.42
| 63,986
| Oct 02, 2018
| Oct 02, 2018
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it was amazing
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Thank you NetGalley for sending me an eARC or Muse of Nightmares. All thoughts are my honest opinions Trigger Warnings: mentions of rape, mentions of c Thank you NetGalley for sending me an eARC or Muse of Nightmares. All thoughts are my honest opinions Trigger Warnings: mentions of rape, mentions of child abuse, graphic depictions of murder, grief THIS REVIEW WAS FIRST POSTED ON MY BLOG. CLICK HERE TO SEE IT IN ITS ORIGINAL FORMAT Very rarely am I left speechless. I am someone who always has something to say. Most people find it annoying but I just have a lot of opinions. Muse of Nightmares has left me speechless. Laini Taylor has outdone herself. I read Strange the Dreamer last year and was blown away by the intricate world. Muse of Nightmares has done the same thing. I truly struggle with character-driven stories on a good day, but the lyrical writing style in this particular series just makes me so damn happy. I have no words, truly. Muse of Nightmares starts and finishes with a bang. It picks up directly where Strange the Dreamer finished and we’re thrust straight back into a conflict. Minya is the enemy and Lazlo, Sarai, Sparrow, Ruby and Feral just want the best for everyone. Preferably without murder. The five godspawn are truly doing their best, but when a new enemy arises it is difficult to make the correct choices to succeed. At the same time apart of this story is featured in the past, before the godspawn we love had even been thought of. Nova and Koya were sisters who had been dealt a hard hand. Their mother had been taken due to her great gift and the pair were left with a vicious father and stepmother. When the time comes for the girls to be tested for gifts themselves only one succeeds in being chosen, the other’s gift so powerful that it scares the gods into leaving her. However, these two sisters have a bond so powerful. They will not quit and they will be together. The sister left behind journeys far and wide in order to get her sister back. I really enjoyed the addition of this story. I was left anxiously waiting for the part of the book to change in order to get another glimpse at the past. I was a bit cautious that the original godspawn would be the only storyline of this particular story, but I was blown away by what was added. This story features so much depth. Honestly, it is mind-boggling. The amount of trauma that is given representation throughout this novel and the way that the story ultimately comes together is what makes Laini Taylor’s writing the spectacular piece of art it is. I must say, I had incredibly high expectations for Muse of Nightmares. Those expectations were thankfully surpassed. I want to start with the problem I had with this book, though. I know, I’m someone who always has something to whine about. Muse of Nightmares is solely character based. There is plot sprinkled through but honestly, it’s lacking. However, with a book that is focused solely on the characters relationships, I feel there should be more character development. We get some development with one (maybe three but those other two are more side characters) character but I feel that was a given. Every other character remains kind of stagnant though. No romances move forward, no change in personality, they just are. It was pretty frustrating and made the story a little boring in some places. I also didn’t enjoy the fact Lazlo just knew how to use his powers. I really wish there had been more of a transitional period here not just a ‘lmao hey guys I have a great power and I have it completely harnessed’ just saying. That is just me being picky though, I guess. The history that is revealed throughout this novel is amazing. When I finished Strange the Dreamer I had more questions than answers. I didn’t understand what had happened really and I truly was searching for what the fuck had actually happened. Thankfully, with Muse of Nightmares, all my questions were answered. I mean, hell, I think I cried like six times throughout this book for no other reason than I am soft and fragile. It happens. I’m trying to talk about these things in the best way that I can without spoiling anyone since I do think that it is best to go into this novel just not expecting anything if you’ve read the first book. Sparrow really had a bigger role in this book too. I loved that. Due to her power being mostly plant based it is difficult for her to do a lot when it comes to fights and arguments. I mean, hell, in the last book I felt like her biggest role was to pine over Feral and get mad at him and Ruby. However, the way that she interwove into this book was spectacular. Again, not going to say a lot because we aren’t out here to spoil y’all. To be honest, though, my favourite thing about the Strange the Dreamer series is the world building. Laini Taylor creates a unique and spectacular world that I want to dive straight in to. The brutality and real human emotions that come across through the world building is something that I absolutely adore. I truly am still blown away in sheer amazement at the world. If she could just set every book in this particular world setting I would be happy for the rest of my days. Overall, Muse of Nightmares was everything I wanted and more. For me, it is definitely not on the same level as Strange the Dreamer, but it was a nice conclusion. I am anxiously waiting to see if maybe we will get a spin-off series, it really felt like the epilogue hinted at that and I need ...more |
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1
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Aug 14, 2018
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Aug 15, 2018
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Aug 26, 2017
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Hardcover
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1481481738
| 9781481481731
| 1481481738
| 4.27
| 13,048
| Oct 10, 2017
| Oct 10, 2017
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really liked it
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THIS REVIEW IS ALSO ON MY BLOG M I N I R E V I E W I tried to work out how to write this as a full-length review, however, I was stumped every time I THIS REVIEW IS ALSO ON MY BLOG M I N I R E V I E W I tried to work out how to write this as a full-length review, however, I was stumped every time I went to start or tried to work out what I wanted to write; here I am doing a mini review which may become longer than anticipated. The Nowhere Girls was a book that I was scared to read. I really didn’t know what was going to happen throughout. However, I am left in tears. I have tears rolling down my face, as I realise how many girls aren’t believed when they come forward with their cases of sexual assault or rape. In the light of the #MeToo campaign that trended on Twitter recently, I think books like this are even more important. They’re eye-opening and conversation starters. They’re vital to this changing generation as we make our selves aware of what is right and wrong. This particular book follows a format of focusing on different people. For a large part, it focuses on Erin, Rosina, and Grace, three girls who become unlikely friends and founders of The Nowhere Girls. With Grace only new to the town and living in the home of a girl who was run out of town after (accurately) accusing three males of rape Grace is desperate to make a change. The three girls do this and they do it in a way that shakes the small town of Prescott. The other POV’s are ‘Us’ which follows many girls, switching between and sometimes not even naming them. It may be them during sexual encounters or just their thought process. I really found these chapters to be a powerful addition to this book. The remaining chapters that aren’t ‘us’ or the three main characters are random characters throughout the story. Some girls get their own chapter and some are some painfully gut-wrenching I just wanted to reach into the pages of the book and help them. The Nowhere Girls touches on so many important topics and includes so many important elements. There is an extremely diverse cast featured throughout well and it seems the author used own voices beta readers to make sure her representation was correct. I can’t speak on that personally, but the acknowledgements do acknowledge this. I was so completely involved in this book from the first chapter. I was made to feel repeatedly uncomfortable by the content and the graphic nature as we dive into the horrors of sexual assault and what means no. The way other girls treat each other is also highlighted in this book, as the group The Nowhere Girls tries to eliminate girl hate. It was refreshing to read a group of empowering young girls. Overall, this is one of the most powerful books of 2017 in my opinion and definitely an important book that touches on the rape culture of our world. ...more |
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1
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Oct 22, 2017
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Oct 24, 2017
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Jul 23, 2017
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Hardcover
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0738746916
| 9780738746913
| 0738746916
| 3.88
| 7,351
| Feb 08, 2016
| Feb 08, 2016
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really liked it
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THIS REVIEW CAN ALSO BE FOUND ON MY BLOG R A M B L E I went into The Abyss Surrounds Us with low expectations. It’s not a very popular book, but it had THIS REVIEW CAN ALSO BE FOUND ON MY BLOG R A M B L E I went into The Abyss Surrounds Us with low expectations. It’s not a very popular book, but it had suddenly been making the rounds on my Goodreads account and I just had to know why no one had rated this book under four stars. I now know. The Abyss Surrounds Us is a tale unlike any other I have read. That may be because I’m not a fan of sea monsters or pirates usually, but this book does it so fantastically I simply enjoyed my precious opinions. The f/f romance in this was beautiful as well. I am now completely on board with the Cas and Swift OTP. Someone get me a ship and I’ll name it after them. I just have a lot of feelings about this book and all are good. My only point of “eh, could have done without” was during the action scenes. I would get a tad confused in some parts. P L O T Going in, I knew nothing about the plot apart from there would be some lesbian pirates. When I read the first chapter a few months ago and put the book down, I thought Cas was the pirate and there was going to be some Kraken like creatures throughout. I was very wrong it seems. That is not at all what the plot of this book was. And I was so happy. I was pleasantly surprised and definitely happy as we follow Cassandra who has trained Reckoners her whole life. I’m a bit unsure of what they look like still, at no fault of the author. I believe the ones in this book look like turtles? Could be completely wrong though. The plot was packed with adventure and action, in a way that would leave you desperately wanting more. The romance does not take over the story in anyway but you are still left with giggly feelings when sparks fly between the main characters. The enemies to lovers trope is done so well, with flirting and banter that make you feel so warm inside. I’m getting gushy, I know, but I just adore Swift and Cas. I can’t wait to see where their story goes! C H A R A C T E R S #C A S S A N D R A You know how a while ago there were those things that were like “looks like a cinnamon roll but will kill you”? Well, Cassandra is a cinnamon role who will kill you. She comes across as kind-hearted and soft, but oh my God. That girl is kick ass. The character development that the author uses for Cas is incredible. Following her particular growth is amazing. Honestly, I am speechless by how flawlessly the author achieves this. It is completely captivating in a way that you simply need to know what she does next. Her decision at the end of the novel shocked me and the revelations that came out? Someone hand me the next book now. I seriously can’t wait to finish the four other books I need to so I can jump straight back into this world. #S W I F T So, if Cassandra is “looks like a cinnamon roll but will you kill you”, Swift is the exact opposite. Which I believe is “looks like they will kill you but is a cinnamon roll”? I clearly missed that trend. Swift was a character I was momentarily scared of. For some reason, she also reminded me of Theon Greyjoy’s sister on Game of Thrones. That could be because I’ve been binging Game of Thrones for two months now in order to catch up (two episodes left!). Finding out Swift’s story broke my heart. It isn’t unusual for that to happen to me. My friends all say I’m really soft (I just have a lot of feelings, I’m sorry) but really, I loved Swift. She was overall a morally grey character that I was rooting for. Something that I don’t usually do. O V E R A L L Overall, this enemy to lovers story is great. I was so unable to put it down to even think of anything else. I am so glad this hidden gem was floating around Goodreads. I highly recommend. On a note that isn’t this particular book related, I am having the best reading month. ...more |
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1
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Aug 16, 2017
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Aug 18, 2017
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Jul 10, 2017
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Paperback
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0062653652
| 9780062653659
| 0062653652
| 3.79
| 43,074
| Jan 02, 2018
| Jan 02, 2018
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really liked it
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NetGalley kindly provided me with an eARC but all opinions are my own THIS EVERLESS MINI REVIEW FEATURES ON MY BLOG AMONG OTHER REVIEWS AND POSTS M I N NetGalley kindly provided me with an eARC but all opinions are my own THIS EVERLESS MINI REVIEW FEATURES ON MY BLOG AMONG OTHER REVIEWS AND POSTS M I N I R E V I E W This book was high key a shock for me. I was not expecting to enjoy it. I started it twice before since the eARC came to me from NetGalley but having no Internet really let me sit down and absorb this book like it’s meant to. I really didn’t expect to enjoy this as much as I did. I just can’t stress that enough. I was expecting a cliché-ridden book that would leave me bored and want to cry my eyes out. Everless is definitely not in that category. Sure, the book has its clichés but almost every book does. It is how the author incorporates those clichés that can make or break the book, in my opinion. In my opinion, Sara Holland does amazing at this. I truly believe she makes them her own as well as creating a highly original story. Truly, I have never read a story quite like this one. The whole concept of it was one that I was unfamiliar with and maybe I just don’t read enough fantasy (lies) but I was blown away. I know this review is mildly incoherent but I really just don’t know how to stress my point enough. I am still incredibly speechless by this book. I wish I had read it slower so I could savour it. I mean, I desperately need a physical copy in my hands when it releases in January. I highly recommend you get your hands on it as well. I hope it will shock you just as much it has shocked me. Almost every character in this novel had depth. My problem though was that I wanted a little eviler throughout the book. I wanted there to be more sinister characters and to have more depth created for them. The sinister characters though were beautifully done in my opinion. I definitely enjoyed the stories that were created and how they were done. I really think the author took risks throughout this novel and they were all well done. The only reason I’m not giving the book five stars would be because of the lack of sinister characters. Mainly because I have read a lot of books lately that contain sinister characters so I was definitely shocked to not have that level. This review is honestly a mess, but my brain is slightly dead from writing so many reviews in such a short space of time. I’ve finally caught up and let me tell you; Everless is a book you’re not going want to miss! ...more |
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1
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Oct 24, 2017
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Oct 25, 2017
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Jun 21, 2017
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Hardcover
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1484728491
| 9781484728499
| 1484728491
| 3.82
| 24,369
| Feb 06, 2018
| Feb 06, 2018
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really liked it
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Trigger Warnings: sexual assault, animal torture FULL REVIEW FEATURES ON MY BLOG R E V I E W To start off this review lets just address how beautiful thi Trigger Warnings: sexual assault, animal torture FULL REVIEW FEATURES ON MY BLOG R E V I E W To start off this review lets just address how beautiful this cover is. I’m not usually a fan of people on the cover of books (my eye prefers designs) but wow. The Belles was a book I instantly wanted to pick up after seeing the cover. The model is stunning and so is the design surrounding her. I don’t know, I was just left utterly speechless when I saw it. Now, about the book. The Belles was a book I felt a bit cautious about. I had requested it but I wasn’t sure if it was a book that would suit my tastes. Especially since it took me a couple days to even reach 100 pages. However, once I was able to sit down and truly get into the world I flew through the remaining pages in a day. The concept and execution were so seamless for me that I couldn’t put the book down without knowing what happened. The Belles is a fantasy novel set in a world where a large majority of people are born void of colour. A select few girls are born with colour and are tasked with the job to make everyone (who can afford it) beautiful. To keep trends changing and people different because in this world beauty is power. If you are not beautiful you are basically treated like trash. Camellia is a Belle, one of the few, and her goal has always been to become the Favourite of the queen. Which means that she will be the one doing all the beauty treatments of anyone royal, creating the new fashion and being trusted by the most beautiful people in Orléans. I was pleasantly surprised by everything in this book. I didn’t find it predictable at all and I felt that every scene was happening for a reason and not simply to add page count. I also really enjoyed reading about a character who I shared a name with. One of Camellia’s sister’s name is Ambrosia but goes by Amber (which, is my name if you weren’t aware). Speaking of the characters I felt everyone had such a depth. Especially Camellia. At the beginning, she isn’t that great of a person and I didn’t exactly like her, at all. Throughout The Belles, she grows as she realises the world and position she holds aren’t what she always dreamed about. The world around her is a lot messier and she needs to adapt now or die (not even an exaggeration). Everyone around her isn’t as she originally thought. My favourite character had to be Remy, who is the bodyguard for Camellia. I’m rooting for him in the sequel. To round this up and stop babbling about this masterpiece, The Belles shattered me. It is well worth the hype in my opinion and has a fantastic cast throughout. I desperately need help picking up my scattered brain for this. I’m sure once the book is officially out in the world there will be some more concise book reviews out but just trust me here read this book. It’s worth it. Also, if you're looking to buy any books over at Book Depository, feel free to use my affiliate link! I gain a small 5% commission at no extra cost to you. ...more |
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1
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Jan 16, 2018
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Jan 18, 2018
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Jun 10, 2017
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Hardcover
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|
my rating |
|
|
||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
3.83
|
it was amazing
|
Sep 18, 2018
|
Sep 13, 2018
|
||||||
3.94
|
it was amazing
|
Jul 12, 2018
|
Jul 09, 2018
|
||||||
4.13
|
it was amazing
|
Jun 11, 2018
|
Jun 09, 2018
|
||||||
4.27
|
it was amazing
|
Jun 04, 2018
|
Jun 02, 2018
|
||||||
3.89
|
it was amazing
|
Jun 08, 2018
|
May 02, 2018
|
||||||
4.01
|
it was amazing
|
Jun 29, 2018
|
Apr 26, 2018
|
||||||
4.46
|
it was amazing
|
Feb 25, 2018
|
Feb 24, 2018
|
||||||
3.78
|
really liked it
|
Feb 19, 2018
|
Feb 17, 2018
|
||||||
4.10
|
it was amazing
|
Apr 15, 2018
|
Feb 07, 2018
|
||||||
3.75
|
really liked it
|
Jan 28, 2018
|
Jan 18, 2018
|
||||||
4.11
|
it was amazing
|
Mar 16, 2018
|
Dec 22, 2017
|
||||||
4.15
|
it was amazing
|
Dec 10, 2017
|
Nov 03, 2017
|
||||||
3.47
|
really liked it
|
Jun 25, 2018
|
Oct 23, 2017
|
||||||
4.16
|
really liked it
|
May 08, 2018
|
Oct 20, 2017
|
||||||
4.42
|
it was amazing
|
Jan 07, 2018
|
Oct 07, 2017
|
||||||
4.42
|
it was amazing
|
Aug 15, 2018
|
Aug 26, 2017
|
||||||
4.27
|
really liked it
|
Oct 24, 2017
|
Jul 23, 2017
|
||||||
3.88
|
really liked it
|
Aug 18, 2017
|
Jul 10, 2017
|
||||||
3.79
|
really liked it
|
Oct 25, 2017
|
Jun 21, 2017
|
||||||
3.82
|
really liked it
|
Jan 18, 2018
|
Jun 10, 2017
|