reread didn’t hit as much as the first time but this was still a very fun time 
dark emotional hopeful reflective sad medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: No
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: Complicated

After experiencing the loss of her husband, Feyi moves with reckless abandon. Hard as she tries to guide Feyi, Joy can only be the attempted voice of reason. Even though they are friends, maybe Feyi is secretly running from Joy. Maybe Joy found the love of her life in Feyi, but because it was not returned, she punishes herself a little with the people she pursues. While no one was expecting the earth shattering turn of events, the supporters were surprising. When you’re in your 20s, let’s skip to the good part is an understatement. I couldn’t put this listen down because of the passionate storytelling!

If I had to describe You Made a Fool of Death With Your Beauty in one word, it would be indulgent. It’s a romance, but it’s also about grief. It’s about how life is short, and love is worth it. It’s about prioritizing your own desires over other peoples expectations. It’s about a black girl doing what feels good, and I was here for that!!!

I think it’s best to go into this book knowing little about it - and I’m so glad that’s what I did. However, it is important to know this is not a fluffy traditional romance. It’s hard to root for the main characters, and I can guarantee most people won’t agree with their actions. I kinda loved that about it though. This was fully Feyi’s story, and it was messy as hell. But it felt real. The relationship between Feyi and her love interest was all consuming, almost to the point of seeming unbelievable. I think that intense chemistry and connection is what so many people long for though, and I can see the appeal. From the outside looking in it seems ridiculous, but when you’re the one in it - I doubt most people would want to walk away from that passion.

I always adore Emezi’s prose, and this was no different. I highlighted so many beautiful phrases. I love that this was such a literary take on the romance genre, and I’d love to see more like it in the future!!

”Imagine that, Feyi. We’re alive, and I love you.”

Thank you to atria books and netgalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
dark emotional funny sad medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: No
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

I found this on a list of books about friends you don't talk to anymore. It didn't fit my situation, but nevertheless, it was a sad book that was well-written. 
dark emotional tense slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Complicated
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes
emotional sad slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Complicated
Loveable characters: No
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes
emotional medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Plot
Strong character development: Complicated
Loveable characters: Complicated
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

This book was incredibly messy, and that is what I was here for. But honestly, I thought the relationship between
Alim and Feyi
fell flat for me.
He was very silent when she came to the mountain. They didn’t speak together often, and the only thing they appeared to talk about was their grief, which is important but not the only thing they should have between them if I’m supposed to believe they love each other
Because of this, it was hard to buy into the second half of the book.  But ultimately this was a good read. 
emotional reflective sad medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Complicated
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes
emotional lighthearted tense medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: No
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

This was fun. Another StoryGraph challenge, so not something I’d normally choose but love a HEA and the exotic setting.