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Medusa by Rosie Hewlett
dark
emotional
sad
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
“But history is written by the winners. Or, more simply, history is written by the men.”
MEDUSA
Yes, another mythology retelling. I just can’t help myself, especially when it is about one of the most intriguing characters in mythology. Medusa by Rosie Hewlett tells Medusa’s story on her terms. Medusa is the mortal daughter of a marine goddess. She is left to serve as a priestess in Athena’s temple. In all that time, Athena never answers a single prayer. She grows into a beautiful young woman and catches the eye of the god Poseidon himself. Except he doesn’t take no for an answer. Laying on the floor brutalized, Athena finally appears and is offended by Medusa’s conduct in her temple and turns her into a Gorgan. At first, Medusa pities herself but then realizes the power she wields…
TRIGGER WARNINGS: This book discusses the rape of Medusa and how she was treated as a victim afterward. Throughout history, Medusa is seen as a monster who was vanquished by the hero Perseus. It is not becoming a more prevalent opinion that she isn’t a monster, but a survivor. This book is relatively short, I would almost consider it a novella. But the story is pretty straightforward. I was not a fan of this version of Perseus. I wanted Medusa to fight to the end.
The pace is nonstop leaving little room for development, but I suppose that is because the author is relying heavily on the reader’s knowledge of mythology. There is one thing that bugged me and that is the dialogue. It is very stilted and bland. It was as if I was back in the 5th-grade class I subbed in last week. However, I loved all the feminist themes and how the author shines a light that Medusa was a survivor, not a monster that we were all led to believe. I rate this book 3 out of 5 stars and definitely plan to check out more of this author’s books!
TRIGGER WARNINGS: This book discusses the rape of Medusa and how she was treated as a victim afterward. Throughout history, Medusa is seen as a monster who was vanquished by the hero Perseus. It is not becoming a more prevalent opinion that she isn’t a monster, but a survivor. This book is relatively short, I would almost consider it a novella. But the story is pretty straightforward. I was not a fan of this version of Perseus. I wanted Medusa to fight to the end.
The pace is nonstop leaving little room for development, but I suppose that is because the author is relying heavily on the reader’s knowledge of mythology. There is one thing that bugged me and that is the dialogue. It is very stilted and bland. It was as if I was back in the 5th-grade class I subbed in last week. However, I loved all the feminist themes and how the author shines a light that Medusa was a survivor, not a monster that we were all led to believe. I rate this book 3 out of 5 stars and definitely plan to check out more of this author’s books!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Rape
In Defense of Witches: The Legacy of the Witch Hunts and Why Women Are Still on Trial by Mona Chollet
challenging
informative
tense
slow-paced
5.0
Thank you, NetGalley, Mona Chollet, and St. Martin’s Press for the opportunity to read this book. It releases on March 8th, 2022.
“By wiping out entire families, by inducing a reign of terror and by pitilessly oppressing certain behaviors and practices that had come to be seen as unacceptable, the witch-hunts contributed to the shaping the world we live in now. Had they not occurred, we would probably be living in very different societies.”
IN DEFENSE OF WITCHES
It always amazed me how many people in America were only aware of the Salem Witch Trials, not the reign of terror that swept Europe for centuries, that claimed the lives of thousands of women. Not only that, they don’t know that witch-hunts still occur today. In Northern Ghana, there are at least six witch camps. In Defense of Witches by Mona Chollet analyzes the treatment of women since the witch-hunts and how they contributed to the shaping of our society today. She looks at 3 main aspects: independent women, childless women, and elderly women. Women are not alone in being persecuted as witches. Men have also fallen victim to accusations but they make up a considerably smaller percentage and most men that were accused were more likely to receive a trial. It shows that the witch trials were deeply rooted in sexism and misogyny.
“The campaign led between 1507 and 1593 in twenty-two villages in the region of Trier, In Germany–the starting point and also the epicenter, along with Switzerland, of the witch hunts–was so relentless that two of the villages, only one woman was left alive; in total 368 women were burned.”
IN DEFENSE OF WITCHES
Historians believe that approximately 50,000 to 100,000 women were executed but this does not include those who were murdered, committed suicide, died in prison, or died from the torture inflicted on them. Many women were banished, reduced to live the rest of their lives in extreme poverty, and suffered from more abuse. The accusations were often associated with meeting with the devil and therefore had religious connections. Oftentimes, Jews were included in these accusations because there were claims that women and Jews wanted to attack Christianity. In 1233, Pope Gregory IX proclaimed that cats were the devil’s servants, and in 1484 Pope Innocent VIII proclaimed that cats that were with women were considered familiars, and the cats were burned along with the accused. This actually led to the rise of rats and because of that…the rise of disease—which was blamed on witches.
This book is a powerhouse of information and not pleasant information. One cannot help but feel angry. Independent women-the unmarried and widows were seen as unnatural as they didn’t have a man for guidance. The childless woman insinuated that she was heartless because who wouldn’t want a child. There has always been the criminalization of contraception and abortion. Then the elderly woman is seen as a woman who has outlived her usefulness and their experience is seen as a problem. But I also appreciated how in the fight for equality, the author dives into how white women left women of color behind in that fight and how privilege plays a factor.
While the argument is precise and organized, it does end abruptly. Some arguments had a tendency to be a little repetitive, but I overall thought the book is very well researched. I rate this book 5 out of 5 stars.
This book is a powerhouse of information and not pleasant information. One cannot help but feel angry. Independent women-the unmarried and widows were seen as unnatural as they didn’t have a man for guidance. The childless woman insinuated that she was heartless because who wouldn’t want a child. There has always been the criminalization of contraception and abortion. Then the elderly woman is seen as a woman who has outlived her usefulness and their experience is seen as a problem. But I also appreciated how in the fight for equality, the author dives into how white women left women of color behind in that fight and how privilege plays a factor.
While the argument is precise and organized, it does end abruptly. Some arguments had a tendency to be a little repetitive, but I overall thought the book is very well researched. I rate this book 5 out of 5 stars.
The Great Witch of Brittany by Louisa Morgan
adventurous
dark
emotional
informative
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Thank you, NetGalley, Louisa Morgan, and Redhook Books for the opportunity to read this book! It was released on February 15th, 2022!
“To be a reader, Ursule has always understood, was to be a rebel, to offend the traditional ways. To risk being isolated even more than she already was…”
THE GREAT WITCH OF BRITTANY
Louisa Morgan has done it again! The Great Witch of Brittany is connected to her first book, The Secret History of Witches-one of my all-time favorites! This book takes readers back to the Orchiere matriarch, Ursule. The book introduces Ursule as a young girl on the brink of womanhood. She is also Romani. The Romani are treated as less than human. Their culture is different and they are often painted as criminals. Ursule finds herself different from her clan. There are stories about the magic that runs in their blood but no one has seen it in generations, but the sacred stone and grimoire speak to Ursule. But magic always comes at a price. She does her best to honor the Goddess, her ancestors, and her family but superstition lies in every society, so she must take care as danger lurks everywhere.
“People are horrible, my girl, learn that early, and you’ll fare better in this world.”
THE GREAT WITCH OF BRITTANY
Trigger Warnings: racial slurs, misogyny, an attempt of rape, revolution, pregnancy trauma
Louisa Morgan is one of those writers who give so much to her characters. It is like readers can see into their souls. There is so much emotion and despite the book taking place in another time and infused with magic, the situations that these women endure are actually relatable. One of the main themes that are always present in her novels is the importance of family, specifically mother-daughter relationships. Like in The Secret History of Witches, Ursule and her daughter Leonie love each other dearly but don’t see eye to eye when it comes to family traditions. Ursule has to come to terms with the fact that Leonie turns her back to her Romani roots. Later, Leonie will learn what lengths a mother would go to protect her children.
Not only do Louisa Morgan’s characters have depth, but there is also the historical detail. First, there is the terror of the Witch Hunts. Women who did not conform to the beliefs and standards were often subjected to being accused of being a witch and burned for it. There are also the trials of the Romani. I loved learning about the Romani people! I was so thankful for all the resources that Louisa Morgan cited at the end of the book because I definitely plan to read more about them. Not many know about the racism and prejudice that the Romani faced. Towards the end of the book, we see a new terror arise and that is the Reign of Terror of the French Revolution. All these events and moments come together and create an emotional and insightful setting.
Overall, Louisa Morgan can never disappoint me. This book is magical, just like all her other books! 5 out of 5 stars.
Louisa Morgan is one of those writers who give so much to her characters. It is like readers can see into their souls. There is so much emotion and despite the book taking place in another time and infused with magic, the situations that these women endure are actually relatable. One of the main themes that are always present in her novels is the importance of family, specifically mother-daughter relationships. Like in The Secret History of Witches, Ursule and her daughter Leonie love each other dearly but don’t see eye to eye when it comes to family traditions. Ursule has to come to terms with the fact that Leonie turns her back to her Romani roots. Later, Leonie will learn what lengths a mother would go to protect her children.
Not only do Louisa Morgan’s characters have depth, but there is also the historical detail. First, there is the terror of the Witch Hunts. Women who did not conform to the beliefs and standards were often subjected to being accused of being a witch and burned for it. There are also the trials of the Romani. I loved learning about the Romani people! I was so thankful for all the resources that Louisa Morgan cited at the end of the book because I definitely plan to read more about them. Not many know about the racism and prejudice that the Romani faced. Towards the end of the book, we see a new terror arise and that is the Reign of Terror of the French Revolution. All these events and moments come together and create an emotional and insightful setting.
Overall, Louisa Morgan can never disappoint me. This book is magical, just like all her other books! 5 out of 5 stars.
The Three Mothers: How the Mothers of Martin Luther King, Jr., Malcolm X, and James Baldwin Shaped a Nation by Anna Malaika Tubbs
challenging
emotional
informative
inspiring
medium-paced
5.0
“Their lives did not begin with motherhood; on the contrary, long before their sons were even thoughts in their minds, each woman had her own passions, dreams, and identity.”
THE THREE MOTHERS
For me, Valentine’s Day is not just about romantic love. It can be about any love. The love for a parent, for a sibling, for a friend, for a fur-baby, and especially love for one’s child. The Three Mothers by Anna Malaika Tubbs shines a light on three women whose sons are some of America’s most beloved activists. It was their love and encouragement that made those boys into the men they would become. But before they were mothers, they were women. They were women with their own passions, dreams, and hopes.
Alberta Williams King was the mother of Martin Luther King Jr. She was born in 1904 in Atlanta, Georgia. Before she married Martin Luther King Sr. She went to school to get her teaching certificate and taught for a short time. Education was very important to her and something that she instilled in her children. When I simplify it like this, it sounds so generic. But what is missing is the struggle. As a Black woman in the United States at this time, she had faced every obstacle to keep her from getting an education. She became a huge part of the Ebenezer Baptist Church and founded its choir. She knew the dangers that her family faced in the fight for Civil Rights. Six years after the assassination of her son, she was also assassinated.
Louise Little was the mother of Malcolm X born in the year 1984 in Grenada. She is the granddaughter of Jupiter and Mary Jane Langdon who was kidnapped in Nigeria and sold into slavery. Louise was raised by her grandparents and later married Earl Little. They moved around a bit. They were often attacked and harassed by white supremacists. Earl died in 1931. Later, Louise would be institutionalized in a mental hospital against her will. She taught her children to always question everything, to educate themselves, and to never stand down. Malcolm X would go on to be a minister of Islam, human rights activist, and spokesman for black empowerment. While Louise was eventually released from the hospital, after what seemed an endless fight, she would have to endure the grief and horror of the assassination of her son in 1965.
Emma Berdis Baldwin was born in 1903 in Maryland. She would give birth to James Baldwin out of wedlock but they would move to Harlem in 1922. She not only had to endure racism as a Black woman but also as a single mother. She would marry David Baldwin in 1927. He was a Baptist preacher and he and James had a very difficult relationship. Go Tell It On The Mountain is a semi-autobiography written by James Baldwin about his childhood. Despite tensions at home, James Baldwin would always care for his mother and support her in any way he could. He would also go on to become a writer and activist. He died from stomach cancer in 1987. Berdis would live for another 12 years and after her death, she was buried next to her son.
These women lived through some of the most prominent events of the 20th century. Their experiences shaped them and their parenting. While a lot of information about them is not well-documented, it is important to not forget about them. They would all bury their sons, the sons that helped changed the world. The author did a fantastic job of researching these women. This book was inspired by the author becoming a mother herself and what it means to be a mother today. This book is absolutely phenomenal from beginning to end. I rate this book 5 out of 5 stars.
Alberta Williams King was the mother of Martin Luther King Jr. She was born in 1904 in Atlanta, Georgia. Before she married Martin Luther King Sr. She went to school to get her teaching certificate and taught for a short time. Education was very important to her and something that she instilled in her children. When I simplify it like this, it sounds so generic. But what is missing is the struggle. As a Black woman in the United States at this time, she had faced every obstacle to keep her from getting an education. She became a huge part of the Ebenezer Baptist Church and founded its choir. She knew the dangers that her family faced in the fight for Civil Rights. Six years after the assassination of her son, she was also assassinated.
Louise Little was the mother of Malcolm X born in the year 1984 in Grenada. She is the granddaughter of Jupiter and Mary Jane Langdon who was kidnapped in Nigeria and sold into slavery. Louise was raised by her grandparents and later married Earl Little. They moved around a bit. They were often attacked and harassed by white supremacists. Earl died in 1931. Later, Louise would be institutionalized in a mental hospital against her will. She taught her children to always question everything, to educate themselves, and to never stand down. Malcolm X would go on to be a minister of Islam, human rights activist, and spokesman for black empowerment. While Louise was eventually released from the hospital, after what seemed an endless fight, she would have to endure the grief and horror of the assassination of her son in 1965.
Emma Berdis Baldwin was born in 1903 in Maryland. She would give birth to James Baldwin out of wedlock but they would move to Harlem in 1922. She not only had to endure racism as a Black woman but also as a single mother. She would marry David Baldwin in 1927. He was a Baptist preacher and he and James had a very difficult relationship. Go Tell It On The Mountain is a semi-autobiography written by James Baldwin about his childhood. Despite tensions at home, James Baldwin would always care for his mother and support her in any way he could. He would also go on to become a writer and activist. He died from stomach cancer in 1987. Berdis would live for another 12 years and after her death, she was buried next to her son.
These women lived through some of the most prominent events of the 20th century. Their experiences shaped them and their parenting. While a lot of information about them is not well-documented, it is important to not forget about them. They would all bury their sons, the sons that helped changed the world. The author did a fantastic job of researching these women. This book was inspired by the author becoming a mother herself and what it means to be a mother today. This book is absolutely phenomenal from beginning to end. I rate this book 5 out of 5 stars.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Child death, Hate crime, Forced institutionalization, Police brutality, Murder
Salt to the Sea by Ruta Sepetys
challenging
emotional
sad
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
“I wept because I had no shoes, until I met a man who had no feet.”
SALT TO THE SEA
I have always been of the opinion that historical fiction shelves are a bit over-saturated with WWII novels. While the time period is tragic and important to read about, there are some books that feel like they could be the same fictional story, even down to the cover. So I tend to be a bit picky when it comes to WWII novels. Salt to the Sea by Ruta Sepetys is one of those books that stands out and sticks with you forever. It follows four different people at the end of World War II. There is Florian who is a young Prussian man fleeing the Nazis. He worked in art restoration under the command of Erich Koch until he found out the true intentions of the Nazis. While fleeing, he comes across a young girl about to be attacked by a Russian soldier. Her name is Emilia and she is Polish…and pregnant. She sees Florian as her white knight and sticks close to him. They come across another group of refugees, led by Joana Vilkas. She is fleeing Lithuania and holds guilt about the deaths in her family and works herself to the bone as a nurse caring for all those around her. The final point-of-view is by an obnoxious young Nazi recruit who is willing to do anything to rise in the ranks and be praised every step of the way. All these characters collide at the boarding of the ship, Wilhelm Gustloff.
The sinking of the Wilhelm Gustloff is one of the most devastating tragedies, even surpassing the Titanic with 9,400 deaths-many being women and children. However, this tragedy is but a blip in history books. In fact, it is not well-known at all. Refugees were desperate, but so were the Nazis—even though they would never admit it. They were losing the war and Russia was advancing. For the refugees, the fear of the Nazis was still palpable but this book shows how little choice they had. It is also fascinating that the author intertwined the legend of the Amber Room. It was a room in Berlin that was extravagantly lined with amber and gold walls with priceless artwork, but it was taken apart at the end of the war and the remains have not been found. But there were rumors that pieces of it were loaded onto the Wilhelm Gustloff.
Trigger Warnings: War, death, violence, rape, racism, war crimes
While the characters in this story are fictional, their plight is very real and was the reality for many people during WWII. Emilia had created her own history to make her present more bearable. Many would see her as helpless but she was the most courageous out of them all and loved with every fiber of her being. Joana suffered so much loss and did whatever she could to prevent more loss. But she is also a natural leader in a time when women were looked down on. Florian kept his feelings to himself. He did not want to get close to anyone. But it was more because he knew danger followed him. Then there is Alfred. This delusional kid is a prime example of the brainwashing that went into the Hitler Youth.
This book is a quick read with a phenomenal cast of narrators. While it is a quick read, with brief chapters, it does not lack depth. I fell in love with most of the characters and wanted them to survive. Be prepared. There will be many, many tears. 5 out of 5 stars!
The sinking of the Wilhelm Gustloff is one of the most devastating tragedies, even surpassing the Titanic with 9,400 deaths-many being women and children. However, this tragedy is but a blip in history books. In fact, it is not well-known at all. Refugees were desperate, but so were the Nazis—even though they would never admit it. They were losing the war and Russia was advancing. For the refugees, the fear of the Nazis was still palpable but this book shows how little choice they had. It is also fascinating that the author intertwined the legend of the Amber Room. It was a room in Berlin that was extravagantly lined with amber and gold walls with priceless artwork, but it was taken apart at the end of the war and the remains have not been found. But there were rumors that pieces of it were loaded onto the Wilhelm Gustloff.
Trigger Warnings: War, death, violence, rape, racism, war crimes
While the characters in this story are fictional, their plight is very real and was the reality for many people during WWII. Emilia had created her own history to make her present more bearable. Many would see her as helpless but she was the most courageous out of them all and loved with every fiber of her being. Joana suffered so much loss and did whatever she could to prevent more loss. But she is also a natural leader in a time when women were looked down on. Florian kept his feelings to himself. He did not want to get close to anyone. But it was more because he knew danger followed him. Then there is Alfred. This delusional kid is a prime example of the brainwashing that went into the Hitler Youth.
This book is a quick read with a phenomenal cast of narrators. While it is a quick read, with brief chapters, it does not lack depth. I fell in love with most of the characters and wanted them to survive. Be prepared. There will be many, many tears. 5 out of 5 stars!
PlantYou: 140+ Ridiculously Easy, Amazingly Delicious Plant-Based Oil-Free Recipes by Carleigh Bodrug
informative
medium-paced
5.0
This is the first cookbook that I have had the chance to review! Thank you, Carleigh Bodrug and Hachette Books for the opportunity to read this book. It releases on February 15th, 2022. PlantYou by Carleigh Bodrug is full of plant-based recipes! I stopped eating meat and cow’s milk over a year ago, so this book has been wonderful as I am always looking for new recipes. The book is colorful and written in a simple format. I knew I would love this book right from the beginning! The dedication is to the author’s father who tested the recipes that never made it into the book. Being the only vegetarian in a family full of meat-eaters…I found this hilarious. The recipes are also not all that complex and don’t take long to put together. It is broken up into 7 parts: plant-filled mornings, souper bowls, sammys & salads, the main event, let’s get saucy, simple sides, and plant-filled desserts.
I have tried two recipes but I have plans to try more this weekend! The first recipe I tried is the Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Overnight Oats. It is definitely tasty but I can’t get on board with cold oats, so I warmed it up and it was DELICIOUS! It will make my mornings so much easier while trying to get my kids and I out the door to school and work!
The Recipe
1/2 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup unsweetened cashew milk
1/4 unsweetened coconut yogurt
1 tablespoon maple syrup
1 tablespoon dark chocolate chips
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
Mix together and leave in the fridge overnight
1/2 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup unsweetened cashew milk
1/4 unsweetened coconut yogurt
1 tablespoon maple syrup
1 tablespoon dark chocolate chips
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
Mix together and leave in the fridge overnight
The other recipe I tried is called Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Breakfast Cookies! These are fabulous and even my husband loved them! He doesn’t like things that are overly sweet and these hit the spot! They are easy to make and I have been taking one or two to work to eat on my break while my kiddos are at recess.
The Recipe
2 bananas, mashed
1-1/2 cup rolled oats
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
a pinch of salt
Mix together. Rolls into individual balls, place one inch apart on a parchment-lined cookie sheet. Bake for 12 minutes at 375 degrees F.
2 bananas, mashed
1-1/2 cup rolled oats
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
a pinch of salt
Mix together. Rolls into individual balls, place one inch apart on a parchment-lined cookie sheet. Bake for 12 minutes at 375 degrees F.
I can’t wait to try more recipes! I rate this book 5 out of 5 stars!
The Christie Affair by Nina de Gramont
dark
emotional
sad
slow-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
“In all the years since Agatha Christie disappeared, amid all the conjecture about her state of mind, and her activities, and her motives, not a single person has ever come to me for answers…”
THE CHRISTIE AFFAIR
Thank you, Nina de Gramont, NetGalley, and St. Martin’s Press for the opportunity to read this book. It was released on February 1st, 2022.
When I first saw the cover of The Christie Affair by Nina de Gramont, I had to have it. The cover just screams 1920s glamor. Then I read the synopsis and I have even more desperate to get my hands on this book. In the year 1926, Archie Christie has told his wife, Agatha that he wants a divorce. He has been having an affair with Nan O’Dea. Upon hearing this news, Agatha is distraught. On December 3rd, 1926, Agatha Christie disappears for 11 days. The police are called out in full force, searching everywhere, and even dredging up lakes. When she turns up the only explanation she gives is “I can’t remember.” But everyone has their secrets, including Agatha and Nan.
Trigger Warnings: kidnapping, rape, birth trauma
What was I expecting? It has been almost 100 years since the 11-day disappearance of Agatha Christie, and Agatha nor the family ever discussed the matter. It has always been an intriguing moment, especially since Agatha Christie is legendary for her mystery books. I was intrigued that this book would cover the disappearance from the perspective of the mistress, who in real life is named Nancy Neele. I assumed there would be a little mystery inside the mysterious disappearance, maybe even some inspired by her works. To be fair, there is a little mystery but it comes 250 pages too late. The book starts strong and then it drags. It becomes the Nan Show and Agatha disappears just like in reality. When Nan’s true intentions come to light, I just didn’t care anymore.
Even so, the whole plot becomes so far-fetched. This is supposed to be historical fiction about a prominent woman who accomplished so much in her time, but it ends up completely erasing her. I can’t imagine that the Christie estate or even the family of Nancy Neele are pleased with how their family members were portrayed in this book. However, it was heartbreaking to see the treatment of women who found themselves pregnant and sent to the convent where their babies are stripped away from them.
Then there are the time-jumps and point-of-view changes. It will just switch without warning, giving rough transitions and slowing the pace. In fact, some transitions did not make sense to me, I would have to go back and reread to figure out why it switched or if I missed something. Needless to say, I was so disappointed in this book that was one of my most anticipated reads for this year. I rate this book 2 out of 5 stars.
Trigger Warnings: kidnapping, rape, birth trauma
What was I expecting? It has been almost 100 years since the 11-day disappearance of Agatha Christie, and Agatha nor the family ever discussed the matter. It has always been an intriguing moment, especially since Agatha Christie is legendary for her mystery books. I was intrigued that this book would cover the disappearance from the perspective of the mistress, who in real life is named Nancy Neele. I assumed there would be a little mystery inside the mysterious disappearance, maybe even some inspired by her works. To be fair, there is a little mystery but it comes 250 pages too late. The book starts strong and then it drags. It becomes the Nan Show and Agatha disappears just like in reality. When Nan’s true intentions come to light, I just didn’t care anymore.
Even so, the whole plot becomes so far-fetched. This is supposed to be historical fiction about a prominent woman who accomplished so much in her time, but it ends up completely erasing her. I can’t imagine that the Christie estate or even the family of Nancy Neele are pleased with how their family members were portrayed in this book. However, it was heartbreaking to see the treatment of women who found themselves pregnant and sent to the convent where their babies are stripped away from them.
Then there are the time-jumps and point-of-view changes. It will just switch without warning, giving rough transitions and slowing the pace. In fact, some transitions did not make sense to me, I would have to go back and reread to figure out why it switched or if I missed something. Needless to say, I was so disappointed in this book that was one of my most anticipated reads for this year. I rate this book 2 out of 5 stars.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Rape, Kidnapping
Mythos by Stephen Fry
adventurous
emotional
funny
informative
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? N/A
- Strong character development? N/A
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
“It is enough to say that the Greeks thought it was Chaos who, with a massive heave, or a great shrug, or hiccup, vomit or cough, began the long chain of creation that has ended with pelicans and penicillin and toadstools and toads, sea-lions, lions, human beings and daffodils and murder and art and love and confusion and death and madness and biscuits.”
MYTHOS
Why did it take me so long to start Mythos by Stephen Fry? If you don’t know Stephen Fry, he is known for numerous reasons like acting, radio, theater, and also being an English comedian. And he is exactly the voice that is needed when retelling Greek mythology. He starts with the beginning that is Chaos, out of that the rise of the Titans, then their downfall due to the Olympians. He tells about the quarrels, creation stories, lovers’ trysts, and their progeny. While all these tales are familiar, Stephen Fry’s retellings give them a fresh new take.
“Whatever the truth, science today agrees that everything is destined to return to Chaos. It calls this inevitable fate entropy: part of the great cycle from Chaos to order and back again to Chaos.”
MYTHOS
This is such a wonderful read, but especially for those who love mythology. If you are not familiar with the Greeks myths, this is a wonderful place to start because Stephen Fry breaks it down in a humorous way.
“When lust descends, discretion, common sense and wisdom fly off and what may seem cunning concealment to one in the grip of passion looks like transparently clumsy idiocy to everyone else.”
MYTHOS
There are so many subjects in these myths that the author handles with care, not just humor because some of the circumstances and emotions still resonate with us today. I do recommend listening to the audiobook because it is narrated by the author, but I have also seen the physical copy and it is gorgeous with beautiful illustrations. I can’t wait to read the other books in this series! I rate this book 5 out of 5 stars.
Razorblade Tears by S.A. Cosby
challenging
dark
emotional
mysterious
sad
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
“Tears ran from his eyes and stung his cheeks. Tears for his son. Tears for his wife. Tears for the little girl they had to raise. Tears for who they were and what they all had lost. Each drop felt like it was slicing his face open like a razorblade.”
RAZORBLADE TEARS
I don’t think I will ever recover from Razorblade Tears by S.A. Cosby. Ike Randolf has been to prison but has built a life for himself ever since. Nothing can prepare him when he gets the news that his son, Isiah and Isiah’s husband, Derek have been shot and killed. Now Ike and his wife are raising their young daughter. Ike and Isiah had a very strained relationship, especially when Isiah came out and told them his plans to marry Derek. Buddy Lee had a very similar relationship with his son Derek. Their guilt and grief are now a driving force to avenge the death of their sons.
TRIGGER WARNINGS: racism, prejudice, hate crimes, murder, rape, transphobia, homophobia, grief, kidnapping, deadnaming, violence
This book is not for the faint of heart. It is not just violent but extremely emotional. Isiah was Black. Derek was white. And they loved each other. They loved the life that they built with their little girl. Ike and Buddy both shared prejudices against their sons. They loved them (what they thought was love) but could not accept them. But we all know that you can’t truly love someone unless you can accept and celebrate their true selves. Throughout the book, Ike and Buddy have to face their prejudices head-on and deal with the guilt that they could not reconcile. Buddy has his own prejudices as well and even though he and Ike form a bond, Ike still challenges him to examine his racist tendencies.
This book really challenges the reader. After hearing some of the words that were said to Isiah and Derek by their fathers…it is hard to feel for them. It just goes to show the complexities of toxic masculinity. But as Ike and Buddy form an awkward friendship, I was ready for them to burn the city to the ground so they could get justice for their sons. That doesn’t excuse their behaviors but it does show that they know how they acted is wrong and that they need to live with the words and actions they inflicted on their children.
This is a fast-paced and violent read. I will never get the images of a body in a wood-chipper out of my mind. But I could not put it down. The narrator, Adam Lazarre-White is phenomenal. I rate this book 5 out of 5 stars.
TRIGGER WARNINGS: racism, prejudice, hate crimes, murder, rape, transphobia, homophobia, grief, kidnapping, deadnaming, violence
This book is not for the faint of heart. It is not just violent but extremely emotional. Isiah was Black. Derek was white. And they loved each other. They loved the life that they built with their little girl. Ike and Buddy both shared prejudices against their sons. They loved them (what they thought was love) but could not accept them. But we all know that you can’t truly love someone unless you can accept and celebrate their true selves. Throughout the book, Ike and Buddy have to face their prejudices head-on and deal with the guilt that they could not reconcile. Buddy has his own prejudices as well and even though he and Ike form a bond, Ike still challenges him to examine his racist tendencies.
This book really challenges the reader. After hearing some of the words that were said to Isiah and Derek by their fathers…it is hard to feel for them. It just goes to show the complexities of toxic masculinity. But as Ike and Buddy form an awkward friendship, I was ready for them to burn the city to the ground so they could get justice for their sons. That doesn’t excuse their behaviors but it does show that they know how they acted is wrong and that they need to live with the words and actions they inflicted on their children.
This is a fast-paced and violent read. I will never get the images of a body in a wood-chipper out of my mind. But I could not put it down. The narrator, Adam Lazarre-White is phenomenal. I rate this book 5 out of 5 stars.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Addiction, Alcoholism, Child death, Death, Gore, Gun violence, Hate crime, Homophobia, Racial slurs, Racism, Torture, Transphobia, Blood, Kidnapping, Grief, Murder, Injury/Injury detail
The Witch Elm by Tana French
challenging
dark
emotional
mysterious
sad
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
The Witch Elm by Tana French is part suspense, part mystery, and part thriller. Toby has charm for days. He can talk his way around anything. He has a wonderful girlfriend and a great job, which he is hiding secrets at…but no one is getting hurt right? Well, he does. He comes home to burglars who beat him almost to death. Recovery takes a while and he struggles with his memory. After he is out of the hospital, he goes to his uncle Hugo’s home, who is dying. There he reminisces with his uncle and cousins…and a skull is found in the trunk of the old witch elm on the property. The detectives are relentless and Toby is a suspect…only he can’t remember if he is a murderer or not.
This is my first Tana French novel. I have so many of her books on my TBR, so it won’t be my last. I really enjoyed Tana French’s writing and how she really fleshes out each character. The characters aren’t all that likable…except for the girlfriend and Uncle Hugo. But I really liked Toby’s development–to a point. To be quite frank, he is an ass who thinks really highly of himself. The more he discovers about himself in the past brings up more anxiety and worry.
However, this book dragged. The beginning is strong…then it just fizzles. I had to force myself to keep listening to it. Then WHAM! There is a moment that took me by surprise, too bad it only took like 20 hours before it happened. The narrator, Paul Nugent, did a fabulous job! I rate this book 3 out of 5 stars.
This is my first Tana French novel. I have so many of her books on my TBR, so it won’t be my last. I really enjoyed Tana French’s writing and how she really fleshes out each character. The characters aren’t all that likable…except for the girlfriend and Uncle Hugo. But I really liked Toby’s development–to a point. To be quite frank, he is an ass who thinks really highly of himself. The more he discovers about himself in the past brings up more anxiety and worry.
However, this book dragged. The beginning is strong…then it just fizzles. I had to force myself to keep listening to it. Then WHAM! There is a moment that took me by surprise, too bad it only took like 20 hours before it happened. The narrator, Paul Nugent, did a fabulous job! I rate this book 3 out of 5 stars.