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anaisniz's reviews
84 reviews
Belladonna by Adalyn Grace
mysterious
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
1.0
π Plot: 2/10
π΅ Characters: 2/10
π» Setting: 2/10
βοΈ Writing style: Poor.
π Would I recommend it? No.
"It's said that five belladonna berries are all it takes to kill someone."
I've only given 1 star to one book in my life, to give 1 star to this one too, it says a lot. At least the other book was fun bad, but this? Boring bad.
β€οΈ Up's:
1) Interesting concept
- 1: To be honest, the concept it's pretty cool. Death is a lonely man that kills who touches, but then, there's someone who can touch him without dying, someone who can't die at all. I really enjoyed how Death talks about being lonely and that death can sometimes be a "bless" and this brings a little new vision to Signa. Like when he told her that she was free of the people who abused her, only because they died. (Yeah, so why does she even hate death, when it was what saved her). If I enjoyed their romance, I would probably liked this more, since I love dark (fantasy) romances.
π Down's:
1) Boring Plot & No Gothic Vibes.
2) Bland Characters
3) Illegal/Awkward "Chemistry"
4) Poor/Cringe Writing
5) The Nonsense Mystery
6) The Nonsense Ending
-1: This was such a boring and dry book, I had a hard time to finish it. The plot is so slow paced, and flat, and I felt as if there was no action in the entirety of the book. The book made it sound like, it was going to be Signa solving a mystery with the help of Death, who she hates, but you know, she will start to like him. But this plays only at the last 30% of the book. Most of the plot was Signa trying to 'fit' into society, drink tea, admiring hot men and preparing for her debut as a lady to marry or whatever. The whole mystery was so rushed at the end and it was a lot less complex than I hoped it would be and also dumb. Signa doesn't even have good family dynamics. This is her ONLY remaining family, that actually treat her well, something that she always wanted but there are no family dynamics, it feels like she's not even interested on them. If I recall, she didn't even cared for Lilian's ghost at the start, she just wanted to get free of her.
This book didn't even had vibes, there was no atmosphere. Just bland.
-2/3: First, Signa is a terrible name. Signa needs some spices on her tea, cause she's that bland and uninteresting. Death tries too hard to be charming, which ends up being cringe and even confusing, he was nothing but a shadow following Signa since she was a baby. Let's also talk about that, he has been "waiting" for her, since she was a baby. Initially, I thought he was talking about her powers or something, BUT quotes like this kept going: "Death dipped his head low, words brushing against her ear. βI have waited for you for a very long time, Signa Farrow.β" and; "Death spoke as though Signa were a child. As though she were a small, fragile thing that needed to be coddled." Pedo, anyone???? Like, I don't mind reading age gaps in fantasy romances, like vampires, fairies, etc, because they don't behave like this. They don't say that they have been waiting for the girl since she was 2 years old, and then bang her when she's 19. Here, he's ALWAYS saying that he's been waiting or that he was always by her side and even talks about their future or some shit. It's so weird.
But let's say, that he's not a pedo and they are a normal to-be couple. Still, they had no chemistry and however they are together it feels so awkward. Signa is always thirsty over man (like Sylas) and so she's always thinking of how hot he is and he's always just calling her "little bird" :/
Other characters, yeah, don't remember any. I only liked Blythe because she rarely spoke since she was dying.
- 4: I'm not really sure what year is, but I would guess around 1800, nevertheless, its a historical fiction. But why is the writing so contemporary and so dry. There's so many cringe phrases like: "Noticing again how large he was. Like a walking tree trunk, really. A tree trunk with muscles. It was astounding."; "He scoffed, the sound so human. So male." MALE? Wtf does that even mean? Imagine how problematic that would be if it was "She scoffed, the sound so human. So FEMALE.".
Whenever Sylas appears, Signa always needs mention his "Smoky eyes"; She's constantly talking about her book and attractive men; and when Death is with her he always says things like "I have been waiting for you" or for her to embrace her power.
- 5: The book plays a lot around the mystery of Lillian's death, even though that it's very rushed in the final. My problem is: it made no sense,that it was Percy. Like his plan was so weird and dumb. First he wanted to kill Marjorie because she told him, she was his mom, so he was like "omg, nobody can know this, even though during all these years she never told anyone or left this house." So he wanted to kill her, so the secret was save, but dude, your father and Lillian also know it and they also didn't told you or anybody else, so why is Marjorie different from them, that you only wanted to kill her?
But ops, Lillian drank the poisonous tea. And now, her ghost knows that it was Percy, but how? Signa says that ghosts can't leave a specific area, so she can't follow him, I guess, outside the mansion? Maybe she could go to the kitchen and see Percy poisoning Blythe's food, but when Lillian talks to him, she doesn't mention that, she just asks why did he kill her. Did she hear him talking to himself or something?
Now Percy wanted attention from his father. So his plan is to POISON HIS SISTER to then POISON HIMSELF. ????. Idk, about poising his sister, would get HIM attention, and that's why he poisoned himself. Why not poisoned yourself in the first place??? He knows how the poison works, he knows how much to take to not die. It makes no sense. His character makes no sense.
- 6: It's hard to believe, but even though I hated this, I actually wanted to read the 2nd book. I thought that's where we would dive in deeper with Signa's powers and the world of Death. Because I actually liked that part. But guess what!Another person dies and now Signa has another mystery to solve! So, I won't be reading the 2nd book. Ending is dumb, Signa and Death act like soulmates. Instead of just saying that Percy died in the flames, Signa says that he ran away idk why. She doesn't say the true about Percy, so the family doesn't suffer, but with him gone and Blythe fully healed after, it's kinda obvious.
π Final thoughts:
I'm sad that this disappointed me, since I was sure I was gonna love it, I was even waiting for the hardcover to be available to buy it, but thank god I didn't. After reading this book I am very surprise by the fame this has.
Sad book honestly.
π΅ Characters: 2/10
π» Setting: 2/10
βοΈ Writing style: Poor.
π Would I recommend it? No.
"It's said that five belladonna berries are all it takes to kill someone."
I've only given 1 star to one book in my life, to give 1 star to this one too, it says a lot. At least the other book was fun bad, but this? Boring bad.
β€οΈ Up's:
1) Interesting concept
- 1: To be honest, the concept it's pretty cool. Death is a lonely man that kills who touches, but then, there's someone who can touch him without dying, someone who can't die at all. I really enjoyed how Death talks about being lonely and that death can sometimes be a "bless" and this brings a little new vision to Signa. Like when he told her that she was free of the people who abused her, only because they died. (Yeah, so why does she even hate death, when it was what saved her). If I enjoyed their romance, I would probably liked this more, since I love dark (fantasy) romances.
π Down's:
1) Boring Plot & No Gothic Vibes.
2) Bland Characters
3) Illegal/Awkward "Chemistry"
4) Poor/Cringe Writing
5) The Nonsense Mystery
6) The Nonsense Ending
-1: This was such a boring and dry book, I had a hard time to finish it. The plot is so slow paced, and flat, and I felt as if there was no action in the entirety of the book. The book made it sound like, it was going to be Signa solving a mystery with the help of Death, who she hates, but you know, she will start to like him. But this plays only at the last 30% of the book. Most of the plot was Signa trying to 'fit' into society, drink tea, admiring hot men and preparing for her debut as a lady to marry or whatever. The whole mystery was so rushed at the end and it was a lot less complex than I hoped it would be and also dumb. Signa doesn't even have good family dynamics. This is her ONLY remaining family, that actually treat her well, something that she always wanted but there are no family dynamics, it feels like she's not even interested on them. If I recall, she didn't even cared for Lilian's ghost at the start, she just wanted to get free of her.
This book didn't even had vibes, there was no atmosphere. Just bland.
-2/3: First, Signa is a terrible name. Signa needs some spices on her tea, cause she's that bland and uninteresting. Death tries too hard to be charming, which ends up being cringe and even confusing, he was nothing but a shadow following Signa since she was a baby. Let's also talk about that, he has been "waiting" for her, since she was a baby. Initially, I thought he was talking about her powers or something, BUT quotes like this kept going: "Death dipped his head low, words brushing against her ear. βI have waited for you for a very long time, Signa Farrow.β" and; "Death spoke as though Signa were a child. As though she were a small, fragile thing that needed to be coddled." Pedo, anyone???? Like, I don't mind reading age gaps in fantasy romances, like vampires, fairies, etc, because they don't behave like this. They don't say that they have been waiting for the girl since she was 2 years old, and then bang her when she's 19. Here, he's ALWAYS saying that he's been waiting or that he was always by her side and even talks about their future or some shit. It's so weird.
But let's say, that he's not a pedo and they are a normal to-be couple. Still, they had no chemistry and however they are together it feels so awkward. Signa is always thirsty over man (like Sylas) and so she's always thinking of how hot he is and he's always just calling her "little bird" :/
Other characters, yeah, don't remember any. I only liked Blythe because she rarely spoke since she was dying.
- 4: I'm not really sure what year is, but I would guess around 1800, nevertheless, its a historical fiction. But why is the writing so contemporary and so dry. There's so many cringe phrases like: "Noticing again how large he was. Like a walking tree trunk, really. A tree trunk with muscles. It was astounding."; "He scoffed, the sound so human. So male." MALE? Wtf does that even mean? Imagine how problematic that would be if it was "She scoffed, the sound so human. So FEMALE.".
Whenever Sylas appears, Signa always needs mention his "Smoky eyes"; She's constantly talking about her book and attractive men; and when Death is with her he always says things like "I have been waiting for you" or for her to embrace her power.
- 5: The book plays a lot around the mystery of Lillian's death, even though that it's very rushed in the final. My problem is: it made no sense,
But ops, Lillian drank the poisonous tea. And now, her ghost knows that it was Percy, but how? Signa says that ghosts can't leave a specific area, so she can't follow him, I guess, outside the mansion? Maybe she could go to the kitchen and see Percy poisoning Blythe's food, but when Lillian talks to him, she doesn't mention that, she just asks why did he kill her. Did she hear him talking to himself or something?
Now Percy wanted attention from his father. So his plan is to POISON HIS SISTER to then POISON HIMSELF. ????. Idk, about poising his sister, would get HIM attention, and that's why he poisoned himself. Why not poisoned yourself in the first place??? He knows how the poison works, he knows how much to take to not die. It makes no sense. His character makes no sense.
- 6: It's hard to believe, but even though I hated this, I actually wanted to read the 2nd book. I thought that's where we would dive in deeper with Signa's powers and the world of Death. Because I actually liked that part. But guess what!
π Final thoughts:
I'm sad that this disappointed me, since I was sure I was gonna love it, I was even waiting for the hardcover to be available to buy it, but thank god I didn't. After reading this book I am very surprise by the fame this has.
Sad book honestly.
The Undertaking of Hart and Mercy by Megan Bannen
emotional
funny
lighthearted
fast-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
3.0
β°οΈ Plot: 5.0 /10
π΅ Setting: 5.0 /10
π Characters: 7.0 /10
β Writing (style): Average
π Would I recommend it? Yes, it's a fun and fast read.
"Maybe there's a strange comfort in knowing that at least one person feels something for me, even if that feeling could best be described as hate."
The best way to approach this book is by ignoring the fantasy aspect and just thinking it's a fun romantic story.
π Up's:
1) Cute chemistry
2) Unique and fun concept
3) Likeable characters
1) The romance was honestly very cute and the enemies to lovers was well executed (Tbf, you could give me a bad enemies to lovers I would still suck that shit up). I think the only problem was how fast it was done. There was time to build a slow romance, but they kiss and have sex after a simple dance. And Mercy stops hating Hart after 1 day, when she spends the last 4 years hating him.
2) The concept is so unique and fun. A western fantasy setting, a demigod guy who's kinda like a sheriff and kills zombies and a girl that runs a funeral arrangement to take care of this zombie's bodies. I have never seen this done before and it sounds so chaotic and I love it. There's also animals that talk (I love the rabbit).
3) All characters are likeable and fun to read. Mainly Mercy's family, their dynamics were so chaotic and fun.
I really like Hart and I loved his devolvement. I also really liked how the theme of loneliness is touched and explored in the story. Reading the letters they send to one another was so fun and cute.
π Down's:
1) Very weak worldbuilding
2) Writing is not my style
1) My main problem with the worldbuilding it's when things go more deep in lore, with "Old Gods" and "New Gods". That's when I felt more confused and things felt disconnected or out of place for some reason. Argentina is also mention, so our world exists??
Another thing, there's no description of the scenario, buildings, clothes, transportation, ... So I had no idea what to imagine while reading or what is an "Autoduck" even. I get it that the focus of the book is not the fantasy, but there was so many fantasy elements and so I couldn't turn a blind eye.
2) The writing style is not my style at all. It's not bad, don't get me wrong, it's very straightforward and simple, which is nice.
However there's many things that the author does that I hate, it's so funny honestly. I hate when boobs are constantly mentation, I hate when the words are written like "Fuuuuck", "Boooooyfriend"; I hate how contemporary the writing feels and expressions like "Beautiful, intoxicating pussy". There's also a lot of swearing, mainly "Fuck".
π Final Thoughts:
I read this in 2 days, it's a fast read that doesn't require much attention and we are there just for the fun. This was a fine, flat book, rounded up to 3 stars mainly because of the concept and the cuteness.
π΅ Setting: 5.0 /10
π Characters: 7.0 /10
β Writing (style): Average
π Would I recommend it? Yes, it's a fun and fast read.
"Maybe there's a strange comfort in knowing that at least one person feels something for me, even if that feeling could best be described as hate."
The best way to approach this book is by ignoring the fantasy aspect and just thinking it's a fun romantic story.
π Up's:
1) Cute chemistry
2) Unique and fun concept
3) Likeable characters
1) The romance was honestly very cute and the enemies to lovers was well executed (Tbf, you could give me a bad enemies to lovers I would still suck that shit up). I think the only problem was how fast it was done. There was time to build a slow romance, but they kiss and have sex after a simple dance. And Mercy stops hating Hart after 1 day, when she spends the last 4 years hating him.
2) The concept is so unique and fun. A western fantasy setting, a demigod guy who's kinda like a sheriff and kills zombies and a girl that runs a funeral arrangement to take care of this zombie's bodies. I have never seen this done before and it sounds so chaotic and I love it. There's also animals that talk (I love the rabbit).
3) All characters are likeable and fun to read. Mainly Mercy's family, their dynamics were so chaotic and fun.
I really like Hart and I loved his devolvement. I also really liked how the theme of loneliness is touched and explored in the story. Reading the letters they send to one another was so fun and cute.
π Down's:
1) Very weak worldbuilding
2) Writing is not my style
1) My main problem with the worldbuilding it's when things go more deep in lore, with "Old Gods" and "New Gods". That's when I felt more confused and things felt disconnected or out of place for some reason. Argentina is also mention, so our world exists??
Another thing, there's no description of the scenario, buildings, clothes, transportation, ... So I had no idea what to imagine while reading or what is an "Autoduck" even. I get it that the focus of the book is not the fantasy, but there was so many fantasy elements and so I couldn't turn a blind eye.
2) The writing style is not my style at all. It's not bad, don't get me wrong, it's very straightforward and simple, which is nice.
However there's many things that the author does that I hate, it's so funny honestly. I hate when boobs are constantly mentation, I hate when the words are written like "Fuuuuck", "Boooooyfriend"; I hate how contemporary the writing feels and expressions like "Beautiful, intoxicating pussy". There's also a lot of swearing, mainly "Fuck".
π Final Thoughts:
I read this in 2 days, it's a fast read that doesn't require much attention and we are there just for the fun. This was a fine, flat book, rounded up to 3 stars mainly because of the concept and the cuteness.
Heart of the Sun Warrior by Sue Lynn Tan
β€οΈ Up's:
1) Characters got even better
2) Amazing worldbuilding
3) Faitytale vibes & Mythology inspired
4) Intriguing and emotional plot
5) Charming and elegant writing
1) Xingyin stills a amazing character and one of my favorites, I love reading through her. She's very real and likable. And also a well written character.
Wenzhi my beloved, I'm so happy for him and that his character was not wasted. He still is my favorite [and I can't believe he was the endgame with Xingyin, I'm literally in tears!!
Liwei is much better in this book, he's no longer annoying or obsessed over Xingyin, and I love this about him, he grew so much and now acts like a proper heir/Emperor.
It was also lovely to see more of the relationship between Xingyin and her motherand later with her father, which was an interesting dynamic . They all warm my heart. I was happy to see other characters from the first book and all of the new ones are lovely.
This love triangle got be one of the best. Its not suffocating and Xingyin narrates her feelings very well. I just love how the book narrates her feelings overall tbh.
2 & 3) The universe continued to expand and it is such a lovely world. We got to meet new Gods which I loved, learn new tales and live in others. Everything felt magical.
4) The book was not as addicting as the first one, but it was an amazing sequel. The first book could be a stand alone, so I was wondering what new things the 2nd book would bring us. It gave us a good plot, with a well written villain, more character development, interesting relationships and new faces to meet.
There was not "stupid plot lines", everything was organized and well thought. I also felt that this book was more about emotions, and the first one had more action.
5) Lady Sue Lynn Tan has to be one of my favorite writers, I will read everything she writes. I'm obsessed with her writing style. The way she captures emotions with such delicate words is enchanting. The way she describes places, characters, feelings its beautiful. It never gets bored.
π Downs:
1) Scenes as sneaking in and out were definitely the most boring ones to read. Also there were many answers just by dialogue (like asking and getting the answers right away), which I think can be overdone and "lazy". But it's not a big deal really.
β¨ Final thoughts:
One of my favorites duologies, with some of my favorite characters and favorite universe.
Enchanting and beautiful books.
adventurous
emotional
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
5.0
π Plot: 9.0 /10
π Setting: 10 /10
πΉ Characters: 9.0 /10
β Writing (style): Excellent.
π Would I recommend it? Yes
π Setting: 10 /10
πΉ Characters: 9.0 /10
β Writing (style): Excellent.
π Would I recommend it? Yes
βPerhaps those who brought us greatest joy, also wielded the power to inflict the most suffering.β
β€οΈ Up's:
1) Characters got even better
2) Amazing worldbuilding
3) Faitytale vibes & Mythology inspired
4) Intriguing and emotional plot
5) Charming and elegant writing
1) Xingyin stills a amazing character and one of my favorites, I love reading through her. She's very real and likable. And also a well written character.
Wenzhi my beloved, I'm so happy for him and that his character was not wasted. He still is my favorite [
Liwei is much better in this book, he's no longer annoying or obsessed over Xingyin, and I love this about him, he grew so much and now acts like a proper heir/Emperor.
It was also lovely to see more of the relationship between Xingyin and her mother
This love triangle got be one of the best. Its not suffocating and Xingyin narrates her feelings very well. I just love how the book narrates her feelings overall tbh.
2 & 3) The universe continued to expand and it is such a lovely world. We got to meet new Gods which I loved, learn new tales and live in others. Everything felt magical.
4) The book was not as addicting as the first one, but it was an amazing sequel. The first book could be a stand alone, so I was wondering what new things the 2nd book would bring us. It gave us a good plot, with a well written villain, more character development, interesting relationships and new faces to meet.
There was not "stupid plot lines", everything was organized and well thought. I also felt that this book was more about emotions, and the first one had more action.
5) Lady Sue Lynn Tan has to be one of my favorite writers, I will read everything she writes. I'm obsessed with her writing style. The way she captures emotions with such delicate words is enchanting. The way she describes places, characters, feelings its beautiful. It never gets bored.
π Downs:
1) Scenes as sneaking in and out were definitely the most boring ones to read. Also there were many answers just by dialogue (like asking and getting the answers right away), which I think can be overdone and "lazy". But it's not a big deal really.
β¨ Final thoughts:
One of my favorites duologies, with some of my favorite characters and favorite universe.
Enchanting and beautiful books.
This Woven Kingdom by Tahereh Mafi
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
2.0
βοΈ Plot: 4.0/10
π Setting: 5.0 /10
𧡠Characters: 4.0 /10
β Writing (style): Good, but so exhaustive.
π Would I recommend it? Yes, if you don't mind slow pace.
βI think I might fetch you the moon if only to spare your tears again.β
The good things in this book are also the bad things. Weird.
π Up's:
1) Strong Premise & Promising Plot
2) Interesting concept and world
3) Mythology inspired
4) Good female protagonist
> 1) 2) & 3)The summary sounds amazing alone and I bet the plot and world will develop in the next books into something bigger. This is only the first one, so there's not much. I enjoyed the whole thing about the Devil and that Kings can make deals with him. The Jinn are also interesting. At the first glace the world looks amazing. I love Mythology and having the opportunity to learn about Persian mythology it's so interesting.
> 4) Despite, Alizeh kicking ass easily, we could say that she's pretty much a "saint", since she's beautiful, kind, innocent-looking and polite - which I liked. Some people may find this kinda of characters annoying, but I didn't and it's rare to find YA protagonists who aren't annoying. I like her.
π Down's:
1) Slow pace, repetitive & boring plot
2) Exhaustive writing
3) Lack of Mythology
4) Characters felt flat & lack of secondary characters
5) Weird romance/chemistry
6) Overwhelming ending
> 1) & 3) "This Woven Kingdom" was a hard book to go through. It was criminally slow. And it felt like nothing really happen. I totally understand who gave up on the book. The first 30% of it was so unnecessary, so much could have been said in less pages. The whole Cinderella retelling also felt weird and it didn't blend well with the rest of the story i guess.She gets a magical dress and shoes out of nowhere, what?
Another thing, I didn't really felt the presence of Persian Mythology. Idk. Maybe because there wasn't that much action or magic? It was just Alizeh being a Jinn.The scene at the end with the grandfather was epic tho.
> 2) The writing style has way too many descriptions for my taste, despite that, the writing it's beautiful. Ironically, there are not many descriptions of structures/architecture, I need to completely imagine everything. But there is the main problem: Instead of simply saying something directly, it takes a paragraph to say it with unnecessary fancy words. The book could easily be 300 pages long if not for unnecessary and repetitive information. For example: There is a conversation that seems to last 4 pages in which it is the protagonist telling another girl how beautiful she is. That's literally all it is.
> 4) Alizeh's biggest problem is: her chapters (especially in the begging) are so slow. And they are pretty much all the same; about her lamenting her life, how she has to live in hiding and how hard is it, some flashbacks of her parents, blah blah blah. This is repeated in almost every chapter of hers. Then everything else she does revolves around the same thing. It's not that fascinating.
I was enjoying Kamran's chapters the most until his personality became "Alizeh". The political things happening in his background were interesting and he was moving the plot, but after talking with Alizeh, he just lives for her. Also his "princeling" personality began to get on my nerves.
Alizeh has no friends and Kamran doesn't really like to be with people (he only wants Alizeh, remember?) So, there are very few secondary characters with screen time (page time?). Weirdly, all the female characters (except Alizeh) are portrayed as cruel or stupid. Cyrus was in 5% in this book and it was my fav character.
> 5) Tahereh Mafi said herself that this is a enemies to lovers, but it's not??? Kamran and Alizeh only have a different race, and Kamran fell in love at first sight with Alizeh! There's no rivalry between them. It's just forbidden romance.
And, nope, Kamran and Alizeh had no chemistry. Their relationship feels so awkward whatever they are together. He's so horny for her and I don't understand why (maybe because she's "NoT LikE OThEr GirLS"), their first conversation was so boring. And then, he acts like a dog, going after her, asking her to be with him, dude?? Do you know personal space??
Also why is she so temped with him? I guess it's because he's the king and she can't be rude by just saying "no, fuck off", but she also thinks of him. How. If they were married, they would have such a boring life together.
Cyrus, who appears in the last seven chapters had a better chemistry with Alizeh.
> 6) The ending was like a circus, the author saved all the good, yet messy stuff for the last pages. Literally the last 5 pages it's when the plot starts to happen. And it is also where the magic and fantasy elements happen, what it felt overwhelming because it was so out of the blue. But it was good, because something was finally happening.
β¨ Final thoughts:
It feels a bit unfair to me to give this below 3 stars, but while writing this, I just really need to rate it 2 stars :/ It didn't strike me as a lazy or completely absurd book, tho. On the contrary, I felt that the author really cares for this world and had fun. Good for her, slay.
I do want to know how this story finishes and I'm curious to learn more about this world because of that ending, but I'm scared that the other books are also this slow paced and with the same kind of writing...
π Setting: 5.0 /10
𧡠Characters: 4.0 /10
β Writing (style): Good, but so exhaustive.
π Would I recommend it? Yes, if you don't mind slow pace.
βI think I might fetch you the moon if only to spare your tears again.β
The good things in this book are also the bad things. Weird.
π Up's:
1) Strong Premise & Promising Plot
2) Interesting concept and world
3) Mythology inspired
4) Good female protagonist
> 1) 2) & 3)The summary sounds amazing alone and I bet the plot and world will develop in the next books into something bigger. This is only the first one, so there's not much. I enjoyed the whole thing about the Devil and that Kings can make deals with him. The Jinn are also interesting. At the first glace the world looks amazing. I love Mythology and having the opportunity to learn about Persian mythology it's so interesting.
> 4) Despite, Alizeh kicking ass easily, we could say that she's pretty much a "saint", since she's beautiful, kind, innocent-looking and polite - which I liked. Some people may find this kinda of characters annoying, but I didn't and it's rare to find YA protagonists who aren't annoying. I like her.
π Down's:
1) Slow pace, repetitive & boring plot
2) Exhaustive writing
3) Lack of Mythology
4) Characters felt flat & lack of secondary characters
5) Weird romance/chemistry
6) Overwhelming ending
> 1) & 3) "This Woven Kingdom" was a hard book to go through. It was criminally slow. And it felt like nothing really happen. I totally understand who gave up on the book. The first 30% of it was so unnecessary, so much could have been said in less pages. The whole Cinderella retelling also felt weird and it didn't blend well with the rest of the story i guess.
Another thing, I didn't really felt the presence of Persian Mythology. Idk. Maybe because there wasn't that much action or magic? It was just Alizeh being a Jinn.
> 2) The writing style has way too many descriptions for my taste, despite that, the writing it's beautiful. Ironically, there are not many descriptions of structures/architecture, I need to completely imagine everything. But there is the main problem: Instead of simply saying something directly, it takes a paragraph to say it with unnecessary fancy words. The book could easily be 300 pages long if not for unnecessary and repetitive information. For example: There is a conversation that seems to last 4 pages in which it is the protagonist telling another girl how beautiful she is. That's literally all it is.
> 4) Alizeh's biggest problem is: her chapters (especially in the begging) are so slow. And they are pretty much all the same; about her lamenting her life, how she has to live in hiding and how hard is it, some flashbacks of her parents, blah blah blah. This is repeated in almost every chapter of hers. Then everything else she does revolves around the same thing. It's not that fascinating.
I was enjoying Kamran's chapters the most until his personality became "Alizeh". The political things happening in his background were interesting and he was moving the plot, but after talking with Alizeh, he just lives for her. Also his "princeling" personality began to get on my nerves.
Alizeh has no friends and Kamran doesn't really like to be with people (he only wants Alizeh, remember?) So, there are very few secondary characters with screen time (page time?). Weirdly, all the female characters (except Alizeh) are portrayed as cruel or stupid. Cyrus was in 5% in this book and it was my fav character.
> 5) Tahereh Mafi said herself that this is a enemies to lovers, but it's not??? Kamran and Alizeh only have a different race, and Kamran fell in love at first sight with Alizeh! There's no rivalry between them. It's just forbidden romance.
And, nope, Kamran and Alizeh had no chemistry. Their relationship feels so awkward whatever they are together. He's so horny for her and I don't understand why (maybe because she's "NoT LikE OThEr GirLS"), their first conversation was so boring. And then, he acts like a dog, going after her, asking her to be with him, dude?? Do you know personal space??
Also why is she so temped with him? I guess it's because he's the king and she can't be rude by just saying "no, fuck off", but she also thinks of him. How. If they were married, they would have such a boring life together.
Cyrus, who appears in the last seven chapters had a better chemistry with Alizeh.
> 6) The ending was like a circus, the author saved all the good, yet messy stuff for the last pages. Literally the last 5 pages it's when the plot starts to happen. And it is also where the magic and fantasy elements happen, what it felt overwhelming because it was so out of the blue. But it was good, because something was finally happening.
β¨ Final thoughts:
It feels a bit unfair to me to give this below 3 stars, but while writing this, I just really need to rate it 2 stars :/ It didn't strike me as a lazy or completely absurd book, tho. On the contrary, I felt that the author really cares for this world and had fun. Good for her, slay.
I do want to know how this story finishes and I'm curious to learn more about this world because of that ending, but I'm scared that the other books are also this slow paced and with the same kind of writing...
The Poison Season by Mara Rutherford
adventurous
lighthearted
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
π Plot: 7/10
π¦’ Characters: 7/10
π² Setting: 7/10
βοΈ Writing style: Very good.
π Would I recommend it? Yes.
βOutsiders are always given a choice: the Forest or the lake. Either way, they're never heard from again.β
β€οΈ Up's:
1) Lovely protagonists & good cast
2) Interesting world
3) Good plot
4) Cozy read, Cottagecore aesthetic & Fairy tale vibes
> 1: Leelo and Jaren are very cute characters who are easily likable. What made Leelo so compelling, in my opinion, is how she's not really annoying or impulsive, like other YA characters. She makes her own decisions, think things through and is a calm/timid person. Jaren is also like that, but more flat. Their romance is very straightforward and also short, and it's kind of unrealistic. I'm not a fan of that, but there two were so adorable, I was always smiling. The rest of the characters were also great. Sage and Ketty were more complex, what made them interesting.
> 2: I loved Endla. Endla was well introduced to us, slowly throughout the book. It was such an unique place and concept - Scary, but cute.
> 3: Wasn't expecting much of the plot and it is very simple, but it took me by surprise with some storylines.
> 4: This book is very atmospheric and I love that.
π Down's:
1) Not much depth or complexity overall
> 1: There's not much depth when it comes to pretty much all. To Characters, to the plot. There's not really much complexity of the setting. Everything is simple and straightforward.
π Final thoughts:
The only reason I gave this 4 stars, even though I should give it 3, it's honestly because, the book was so fun and cozy. I had such a great time reading it. This book it's very mild and simple, so don't expect something complex.
π¦’ Characters: 7/10
π² Setting: 7/10
βοΈ Writing style: Very good.
π Would I recommend it? Yes.
βOutsiders are always given a choice: the Forest or the lake. Either way, they're never heard from again.β
β€οΈ Up's:
1) Lovely protagonists & good cast
2) Interesting world
3) Good plot
4) Cozy read, Cottagecore aesthetic & Fairy tale vibes
> 1: Leelo and Jaren are very cute characters who are easily likable. What made Leelo so compelling, in my opinion, is how she's not really annoying or impulsive, like other YA characters. She makes her own decisions, think things through and is a calm/timid person. Jaren is also like that, but more flat. Their romance is very straightforward and also short, and it's kind of unrealistic. I'm not a fan of that, but there two were so adorable, I was always smiling. The rest of the characters were also great. Sage and Ketty were more complex, what made them interesting.
> 2: I loved Endla. Endla was well introduced to us, slowly throughout the book. It was such an unique place and concept - Scary, but cute.
> 3: Wasn't expecting much of the plot and it is very simple, but it took me by surprise with some storylines.
> 4: This book is very atmospheric and I love that.
π Down's:
1) Not much depth or complexity overall
> 1: There's not much depth when it comes to pretty much all. To Characters, to the plot. There's not really much complexity of the setting. Everything is simple and straightforward.
π Final thoughts:
The only reason I gave this 4 stars, even though I should give it 3, it's honestly because, the book was so fun and cozy. I had such a great time reading it. This book it's very mild and simple, so don't expect something complex.
The Dragon's Promise by Elizabeth Lim
adventurous
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
2.0
π¦’ Plot: 5.0 /10
πΈ Setting: 8.0 /10
π Characters: 5.0 /10
β Writing (style): Very good.
π Would I recommend it? If you are satisfied with the first book alone, then you can stay there. However, this one stills enjoyable, if you really want to pick it up.
βYour heart is your home. Until you understand that, you belong nowhere.β
β€οΈ Up's:
1) Shiori remains a solid MC
2) Good continuation of the world/worldbuilding
3) Fairy Tale vibes
4) Wholesome chemistry
1) Nothing much to say here. In general, I like Shiori and the other characters.
2 & 3) We had more about Kiata culture and that was nice. We went to the Dragon city underwater, that was very pretty and magical. And to a new island, that was boring.
4) I still love Shiori and Takkan. I admit that him being so patient with her triggered me xD (view spoiler). But they are are adorable.
π Down's:
1) Shiori remains a rebellious teen & Seryu becomes even more annoying
2) Secondary characters
3) Waste of the world/worldbuilding
4) Messy and boring plotline
1) Like I said, I like Shiori, but her constantly doing the opposite of what people ask, started to annoy me. Seryu *sigh*. I hate him still. His personality didn't change a bit and now he wouldn't stop asking for the hand of Shiori. I honestly don't even know how they are friends, since hes always insulting her lover, race and home. It seems that she feels obligated to like him just because he saved her at the lake. And these two together became boring, with always the same dialogue and stuff happening. She rebels and he has to save her. He complains about her never listening, she remembers to trust him. Spoilers from the first 10% of the book>He says how much he cares for her and that he wants her to stay, she reminds him that she doesn't love him like that and that she has a lover . Also, great time to bring up the love triangle that many people didn't want to happen. In my opinion, it made sense, since Seryu in the first book already had a crush on Shiori. The triangle itself wasn't even anything special or annoying, since Seryu only appears at the beginning and so there's no rivalry between him and Takkan.
2) Unfortunately, there were some characters introduced who were easily forgotten or felt vague and confused. I still feel like Shiori's brothers presence it's so weak and I still don't really care about them. They show up to say some words and that's it. I hate how they don't trust Shiori yet, like?? They always look at her like she's crazy or something whenever she's trying to say something.
3) The underwater dragon city was not much my interest since I personally, don't care about the concept of underwater kingdoms, but it was interesting and I was curious to learn more about it. But we spent little time on it. Then, I was hopping to know other lands on Kiata that we didn't get the opportunity to explore and we did get, a new island, but...it was honestly so boring because of how the storyline was going.
4) From start to end, the plot was a mess.
The demon plotline was not for me. The villains coming back in the 2nds books, it's easily boring. I would rather explore more of Kiata and Shiori learning about different types of magic or discover new stuff. The bad guy didn't even felt like a threat, but a joke, with lame lines. I really enjoyed learning more about Raikama and it's nice how she has a strong presence. Sadly, the last 30% of the book was hard to read. The ending was good tho.
β¨ Final thoughts:
This book turned out to be a sad disappointment, I really wanted to love this book as much as I loved the first. But it's not like I regret reading it, since Elizabeth Lim's writing helps a lot to make the book easily enjoyable. But to be honest, Six Crimson Cranes could have just been a standalone.
πΈ Setting: 8.0 /10
π Characters: 5.0 /10
β Writing (style): Very good.
π Would I recommend it? If you are satisfied with the first book alone, then you can stay there. However, this one stills enjoyable, if you really want to pick it up.
βYour heart is your home. Until you understand that, you belong nowhere.β
β€οΈ Up's:
1) Shiori remains a solid MC
2) Good continuation of the world/worldbuilding
3) Fairy Tale vibes
4) Wholesome chemistry
1) Nothing much to say here. In general, I like Shiori and the other characters.
2 & 3) We had more about Kiata culture and that was nice. We went to the Dragon city underwater, that was very pretty and magical. And to a new island, that was boring.
4) I still love Shiori and Takkan. I admit that him being so patient with her triggered me xD (view spoiler). But they are are adorable.
π Down's:
1) Shiori remains a rebellious teen & Seryu becomes even more annoying
2) Secondary characters
3) Waste of the world/worldbuilding
4) Messy and boring plotline
1) Like I said, I like Shiori, but her constantly doing the opposite of what people ask, started to annoy me. Seryu *sigh*. I hate him still. His personality didn't change a bit and now he wouldn't stop asking for the hand of Shiori. I honestly don't even know how they are friends, since hes always insulting her lover, race and home. It seems that she feels obligated to like him just because he saved her at the lake. And these two together became boring, with always the same dialogue and stuff happening. She rebels and he has to save her. He complains about her never listening, she remembers to trust him. Spoilers from the first 10% of the book>
2) Unfortunately, there were some characters introduced who were easily forgotten or felt vague and confused. I still feel like Shiori's brothers presence it's so weak and I still don't really care about them. They show up to say some words and that's it. I hate how they don't trust Shiori yet, like?? They always look at her like she's crazy or something whenever she's trying to say something.
3) The underwater dragon city was not much my interest since I personally, don't care about the concept of underwater kingdoms, but it was interesting and I was curious to learn more about it. But we spent little time on it. Then, I was hopping to know other lands on Kiata that we didn't get the opportunity to explore and we did get, a new island, but...it was honestly so boring because of how the storyline was going.
4) From start to end, the plot was a mess.
The demon plotline was not for me. The villains coming back in the 2nds books, it's easily boring. I would rather explore more of Kiata and Shiori learning about different types of magic or discover new stuff. The bad guy didn't even felt like a threat, but a joke, with lame lines. I really enjoyed learning more about Raikama and it's nice how she has a strong presence. Sadly, the last 30% of the book was hard to read. The ending was good tho.
β¨ Final thoughts:
This book turned out to be a sad disappointment, I really wanted to love this book as much as I loved the first. But it's not like I regret reading it, since Elizabeth Lim's writing helps a lot to make the book easily enjoyable. But to be honest, Six Crimson Cranes could have just been a standalone.
This Vicious Grace by Emily Thiede
"Three weddings. Three funerals. A better person would have been devastated..."
β€οΈ Up's:
1) Interesting world
2) Unique and amazing concept
3) Good and sweet chemistry
4) Solid MC
5) Fun read
When I found out about this book, I was super hyped because it had so much to be one of my favorites. The synopsis was full of elements that I love and the concept sounded amazing. Overall, I had high expectations for this book and that was the problem. I expected too much and something different. But I'm not disappointed, it was a fun and lovely story.
π Down's:
1) Everything just felt mediocre
It's weird. Nothing stands out.
The chemistry was good average, the same with the MC. Alessa was fun to follow, but she was just "fine", even when she had a good development.
Although the unique and amazing concept, what was shown in the book was not enough for me to say the world-building was well done. I hope we can explore more about Saverio in the 2 book. Also the book started to aim more in the romance.
The plot with the priest was a waste of time. He never looked like a real threat.
π Final thoughts:
I wanted to love this so bad. I wanted to be obsessed with the book, but unfortunately, I was expecting something different from what it really was. Again, I wasn't disappointed. I had a lot o fun reading it and the romance was cute. I really wish I could rate it 4 stars tho. Let's see how it goes with the 2 book.
adventurous
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
π Plot: 7.0/10
π§ Setting: 7.0 /10
π° Characters: 7.0 /10
β Writing (style): Good.
π Would I recommend it? Yes.
π§ Setting: 7.0 /10
π° Characters: 7.0 /10
β Writing (style): Good.
π Would I recommend it? Yes.
"Three weddings. Three funerals. A better person would have been devastated..."
β€οΈ Up's:
1) Interesting world
2) Unique and amazing concept
3) Good and sweet chemistry
4) Solid MC
5) Fun read
When I found out about this book, I was super hyped because it had so much to be one of my favorites. The synopsis was full of elements that I love and the concept sounded amazing. Overall, I had high expectations for this book and that was the problem. I expected too much and something different. But I'm not disappointed, it was a fun and lovely story.
π Down's:
1) Everything just felt mediocre
It's weird. Nothing stands out.
The chemistry was good average, the same with the MC. Alessa was fun to follow, but she was just "fine", even when she had a good development.
Although the unique and amazing concept, what was shown in the book was not enough for me to say the world-building was well done. I hope we can explore more about Saverio in the 2 book. Also the book started to aim more in the romance.
The plot with the priest was a waste of time. He never looked like a real threat.
π Final thoughts:
I wanted to love this so bad. I wanted to be obsessed with the book, but unfortunately, I was expecting something different from what it really was. Again, I wasn't disappointed. I had a lot o fun reading it and the romance was cute. I really wish I could rate it 4 stars tho. Let's see how it goes with the 2 book.
The Girl from the Other Side: SiΓΊil, a RΓΊn Deluxe Edition II by Nagabe
5.0
βοΈ My Rating: 5/5 βοΈ