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_chrstnlvly's reviews
213 reviews
The Stall by Susan Ulrich Kruse
mysterious
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
2.0
What was the point of this book?
While Lauren's (the female main character) "realizations" were mentioned, they weren’t effectively shown in the story. Instead of letting readers piece things together, the narrative explicitly explained them. This approach made Lauren’s journey feel less impactful.
I’ll give credit to Susan Ulrich Kruse for crafting a quick read that kept me on edge at times. However, the overall mystery fell flat. The resolution lacked depth, and the story left me questioning its purpose.
Though it’s a fast read, it’s not a particularly satisfying way to pass the time.
While Lauren's (the female main character) "realizations" were mentioned, they weren’t effectively shown in the story. Instead of letting readers piece things together, the narrative explicitly explained them. This approach made Lauren’s journey feel less impactful.
I’ll give credit to Susan Ulrich Kruse for crafting a quick read that kept me on edge at times. However, the overall mystery fell flat. The resolution lacked depth, and the story left me questioning its purpose.
Though it’s a fast read, it’s not a particularly satisfying way to pass the time.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Alcoholism, Death, and Vomit
Moderate: Car accident and Murder
Minor: Death of parent
Cruel Winter with You by Ali Hazelwood
Cruel Winter with You is a perfect short novella for a quick, cheesy read. Though brief, I thoroughly enjoyed following Marc and Jamie's story. Ali Hazelwood has a talent for making readers smile and swoon, and I lost count of how often I was grinning while reading.
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.0
But it’s okay. I see these things. I’ve always seen them, and I love you because of, not despite, them. Because they’re what makes you you.
Cruel Winter with You is a perfect short novella for a quick, cheesy read. Though brief, I thoroughly enjoyed following Marc and Jamie's story. Ali Hazelwood has a talent for making readers smile and swoon, and I lost count of how often I was grinning while reading.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexual content and Alcohol
Minor: Abandonment
The Pumpkin Spice Café by Laurie Gilmore
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
It was just alright. A decent way to kill some time while I did chores (I went with the audiobook version). Honestly, not sure if I'll keep going with the series since I've seen a bunch of reviews saying the next books aren't much better.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexual content
Minor: Death of parent and Abandonment
The Answer is No by Fredrik Backman
You can't deny the way Backman masterfully weaves words. His writing is both humorous and deeply moving — even a short story left me in tears. The message, though simple, is always profound.
As an introvert, I found myself particularly connected to this story. Who would have thought that a tale about Lucas and a frying pan could have such a powerful impact?
I'm now fully convinced that nothing could ever make me dislike Backman's work.
emotional
funny
reflective
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
You can make yourself happy if you don't let others make you unhappy.
You can't deny the way Backman masterfully weaves words. His writing is both humorous and deeply moving — even a short story left me in tears. The message, though simple, is always profound.
As an introvert, I found myself particularly connected to this story. Who would have thought that a tale about Lucas and a frying pan could have such a powerful impact?
I'm now fully convinced that nothing could ever make me dislike Backman's work.
Content Warnings
Minor: Animal death
The Dog Next Door: And Other Stories of the Dogs We Love by
emotional
funny
inspiring
fast-paced
4.0
The Boyfriend by Freida McFadden
dark
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
2.75
The Boyfriend is one of McFadden's weakest books. I used to turn to her novels to help with my reading slumps, but this book has actually put me in one. I just can't get engrossed in it like I have with her other works.
Sydney, the female main character, is one of the least likable protagonists I've encountered. While the plot is wild, it's not in a good way for a psychological thriller.
I'm not sure if I've read too many of McFadden's books by now or if the storyline in The Boyfriend really lacks strength, but her recent works seem to lack the surprise factor they used to have.
I think it might be time for me to take a break from reading McFadden's books for a while.
Sydney, the female main character, is one of the least likable protagonists I've encountered. While the plot is wild, it's not in a good way for a psychological thriller.
I'm not sure if I've read too many of McFadden's books by now or if the storyline in The Boyfriend really lacks strength, but her recent works seem to lack the surprise factor they used to have.
I think it might be time for me to take a break from reading McFadden's books for a while.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Blood, Death of parent, Murder, and Injury/Injury detail
Moderate: Stalking
Mad Honey by Jodi Picoult, Jennifer Finney Boylan
dark
emotional
informative
mysterious
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25
Mad Honey pulled me out of a reading slump—I couldn't put this book down. I have been an avid reader of Jodi Picoult's works in the past, but lately, I've focused on fantasy and romance books. Mad Honey reminded me of why I love Picoult's writing.
However, I have to admit I felt betrayed by how the story unfolded. The plot twist around the halfway point completely unhinged me—not in a good way. It shifted the focus of the narrative to something entirely different. While it was still part of the story, it wasn't the plot I was expecting based on the blurb.
The ending also felt rushed. I didn't agree with the conclusion, especially after we finally learned what happened on that day. Ava's choices were also questionable. I understand that she only wanted Lily to be happy, but that doesn't mean she should give in to everything Lily desired. Ava could have waited a few more years before allowing Lily to pursue all the things Lily wanted. If Ava had made different choices, Lily might have grown stronger and wiser.
However, I have to admit I felt betrayed by how the story unfolded. The plot twist around the halfway point completely unhinged me—not in a good way. It shifted the focus of the narrative to something entirely different. While it was still part of the story, it wasn't the plot I was expecting based on the blurb.
The ending also felt rushed. I didn't agree with the conclusion, especially after we finally learned what happened on that day. Ava's choices were also questionable. I understand that she only wanted Lily to be happy, but that doesn't mean she should give in to everything Lily desired. Ava could have waited a few more years before allowing Lily to pursue all the things Lily wanted. If Ava had made different choices, Lily might have grown stronger and wiser.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Bullying, Child abuse, Death, Domestic abuse, Emotional abuse, Physical abuse, Self harm, Transphobia, Blood, Grief, Suicide attempt, and Injury/Injury detail
Moderate: Alcoholism, Cursing, Misogyny, and Gaslighting
Echoes of You by Catherine Cowles
I found Maddie's choices really annoying. I caught myself rolling my eyes several times because of her poor decisions. Every time she made a bad choice, I had to put my Kindle down and remind myself to breathe. I understood where she was coming from, but some of her choices seemed stupid, especially when it came to her and her loved ones' safety. What irritated me even more was that people around her just coddled her with her choices instead of being honest about the mistakes she made. (PSA: I'm only referring to the bad choices she made after returning to Cedar Ridge, not before, so please don't come at me.)
I read this right after finishing Whispers of You, and Echoes of You felt like a copy-paste version of the former(main characters being in love since childhood, female main character [FMC] having a traumatic past, male main character [MMC] feeling the need to protect the FMC, FMC having a dog, similar form of attack on the FMC, the FMC being kidnapped... you get the point) . However, I still enjoyed it, but I can't shake off how similar the two books were.
If I liked the Hartleys in Whispers of You, I fell in love with them (and their small town) while reading Echoes of You. I can't seem to stop reading about these characters. I hope I'll get to see more of Roan, Caden and Aspen in the next books.
dark
emotional
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Never put up with anyone treating you with even a hint of cruelty. It’s always a sign of bad things to come.
I found Maddie's choices really annoying. I caught myself rolling my eyes several times because of her poor decisions. Every time she made a bad choice, I had to put my Kindle down and remind myself to breathe. I understood where she was coming from, but some of her choices seemed stupid, especially when it came to her and her loved ones' safety. What irritated me even more was that people around her just coddled her with her choices instead of being honest about the mistakes she made. (PSA: I'm only referring to the bad choices she made after returning to Cedar Ridge, not before, so please don't come at me.)
I read this right after finishing Whispers of You, and Echoes of You felt like a copy-paste version of the former
If I liked the Hartleys in Whispers of You, I fell in love with them (and their small town) while reading Echoes of You. I can't seem to stop reading about these characters. I hope I'll get to see more of Roan, Caden and Aspen in the next books.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Child abuse, Domestic abuse, Physical abuse, Sexual content, Violence, Blood, Kidnapping, Stalking, and Injury/Injury detail
Moderate: Alcoholism, Emotional abuse, Gun violence, Mental illness, Toxic relationship, Death of parent, Murder, and Gaslighting
Whispers of You by Catherine Cowles
dark
emotional
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
I really enjoyed how well-developed the main characters were, especially Wren. I admire her strength and resilience, and I aspire to be as kind as her. The only small issue I had was that I wish we had more background information on why her parents are the way they are, but that's just a minor complaint.
Whispers of You has the perfect balance of romance and mystery, keeping me engaged while also making me root for Holt and Wren. This was the first time I read a Catherine Cowles book, and it definitely won't be the last, especially now that I feel a strong connection to each of the characters.
Whispers of You has the perfect balance of romance and mystery, keeping me engaged while also making me root for Holt and Wren. This was the first time I read a Catherine Cowles book, and it definitely won't be the last, especially now that I feel a strong connection to each of the characters.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Gun violence, Sexual content, Violence, Blood, Kidnapping, and Injury/Injury detail
Moderate: Stalking and Murder
Rosie and the Dreamboat by Sally Thorne
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.75
Dialogue seemed forced, but I still enjoyed it despite the cliché damsel-in-distress-gets-saved-by-a-man storyline.