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andshe_reads's reviews
828 reviews
The Porcelain Maker by Sarah Freethy
emotional
reflective
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? No
5.0
Such a heartfelt and heartbreaking story about love, friendship, betrayal, art and creativity in the midst of the war.
This was honestly such an emotional read. I was in absolute awe of Max who created beauty in a time of absolute devastation. Who despite everything he went through and witnessed never gave up hope. Bettina was a force to be reckoned with who did everything in her power to be reunited with her true love and sacrificed so much to protect her daughter.
The dual timeline had me hooked, I really enjoyed witnessing the story from the 1990s and also late 1930s early 1940s. Clara's dedication to finding her father was inspiring and the journey although heart wrenching can finally give her some peace.
Reading about the Allach Porcelain factory was really interesting and I felt like I learnt so much. Great research on the authors part. It amazed me that such beauty was created in such an inhumane place.
A truly compelling read I highly recommend this book to any fans of historical fiction. Thank you to Randomthingstours & the Publisher for a copy of the book and a spot on the book tour.
This was honestly such an emotional read. I was in absolute awe of Max who created beauty in a time of absolute devastation. Who despite everything he went through and witnessed never gave up hope. Bettina was a force to be reckoned with who did everything in her power to be reunited with her true love and sacrificed so much to protect her daughter.
The dual timeline had me hooked, I really enjoyed witnessing the story from the 1990s and also late 1930s early 1940s. Clara's dedication to finding her father was inspiring and the journey although heart wrenching can finally give her some peace.
Reading about the Allach Porcelain factory was really interesting and I felt like I learnt so much. Great research on the authors part. It amazed me that such beauty was created in such an inhumane place.
A truly compelling read I highly recommend this book to any fans of historical fiction. Thank you to Randomthingstours & the Publisher for a copy of the book and a spot on the book tour.
Book Lovers by Emily Henry
4.0
There was just something about this book that felt so cozy and just like a big hug. Between the blossoming unexpected romance and the relationship between the sisters it just made my heart quite happy.
Emily has a raw talent for creating amazing chemistry between her characters and I adored Nora and Charlie. Their banter was comical and it made me think of those days back at school if someone used to torment you adults always said they fancied you.
As much as I felt like Nora and Charlie should have got more of the limelight. The story takes a strong focus on the relationship between Nora and her sister Libby. This was explored superbly and I actually felt that it gave more depth to Noras character.
On the whole I really enjoyed it what wasn't to like.. a book about book lovers isn't that every readers dream.
Emily has a raw talent for creating amazing chemistry between her characters and I adored Nora and Charlie. Their banter was comical and it made me think of those days back at school if someone used to torment you adults always said they fancied you.
As much as I felt like Nora and Charlie should have got more of the limelight. The story takes a strong focus on the relationship between Nora and her sister Libby. This was explored superbly and I actually felt that it gave more depth to Noras character.
On the whole I really enjoyed it what wasn't to like.. a book about book lovers isn't that every readers dream.
Everyone in This Room Will Someday Be Dead by Emily Austin
4.0
I felt like Emily Austin made a character just like me. [ minus the dirty dishes ] lol
This book gave me Eleanor Oliphant vibes with the deadpan humour and dryness of the narrative. Although full of witty moments the book does get serious at times and covers some sensitive topics.
Gilda was such a complex characters with a highly active brain and her train of thoughts reminded me on myself. I felt like she could never switch off and thats how I feel too. It was hilarious how many different excuses she used to put off a date with a man who had no idea she was gay.
The mental health rep was on point and with more and more people suffering with MH these days it was totally relevant.
The story seemed quite fast paced albeit a bit erratic at times [ because of the way Gilda was ] but overall I really enjoyed it.
This book gave me Eleanor Oliphant vibes with the deadpan humour and dryness of the narrative. Although full of witty moments the book does get serious at times and covers some sensitive topics.
Gilda was such a complex characters with a highly active brain and her train of thoughts reminded me on myself. I felt like she could never switch off and thats how I feel too. It was hilarious how many different excuses she used to put off a date with a man who had no idea she was gay.
The mental health rep was on point and with more and more people suffering with MH these days it was totally relevant.
The story seemed quite fast paced albeit a bit erratic at times [ because of the way Gilda was ] but overall I really enjoyed it.
Girl, Missing by Ryan Carter, Dreda Say Mitchell, Dreda Say Mitchell
mysterious
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? No
5.0
Well the story lived up its premise that for sure. Do you ever feel like you just need one more chapter.. yes this book ended too soon. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
I admired Gems strength, her determination to find her daughter or to get some answers as to what happened that awful day. She has so much courage. Her ex on the other hand was an awful character, he was manipulative and sly and although I didn't like him he definitely added that extra ounce of mysteriousness to the storyline.
It was interesting how the story played out especially as the author bought the two different classes so we saw how each side was treated depending on where they lived and how much money they had in their pockets.
I had so many theories enter my head throughout the whole book and although I had an inkling of how the end may play out I wasn't on the mark.
Overall a fast paced thriller that definitely gets your brain working. Thank you to the author, Publisher and Tandem Collective for a copy of the book and a spot on the readalong.
I admired Gems strength, her determination to find her daughter or to get some answers as to what happened that awful day. She has so much courage. Her ex on the other hand was an awful character, he was manipulative and sly and although I didn't like him he definitely added that extra ounce of mysteriousness to the storyline.
It was interesting how the story played out especially as the author bought the two different classes so we saw how each side was treated depending on where they lived and how much money they had in their pockets.
I had so many theories enter my head throughout the whole book and although I had an inkling of how the end may play out I wasn't on the mark.
Overall a fast paced thriller that definitely gets your brain working. Thank you to the author, Publisher and Tandem Collective for a copy of the book and a spot on the readalong.
Still Standing by Natalie Queiroz
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
sad
medium-paced
5.0
There honestly isn't any words I could possibly write that will even remotely do this memoir justice.
I am so in awe at Natalie's strength not only physically but also mentally to not give up after such a traumatic event in her life. She truly is an inspiration to us all.
This book will break you as it did me over and over again. Please believe me when I say this wasn't an easy read. Natalie's journey through an ordeal no one should ever have to experience is so raw and honest, she has laid everything bare detailing her story from before during and after the attack.
I found myself looking at my own life in a completely different perspective. Reminding myself to never take anything and anyone for granted and to really appreciate the little things in everyday.
Thankyou to Natalie for sharing your story with us.
I am so in awe at Natalie's strength not only physically but also mentally to not give up after such a traumatic event in her life. She truly is an inspiration to us all.
This book will break you as it did me over and over again. Please believe me when I say this wasn't an easy read. Natalie's journey through an ordeal no one should ever have to experience is so raw and honest, she has laid everything bare detailing her story from before during and after the attack.
I found myself looking at my own life in a completely different perspective. Reminding myself to never take anything and anyone for granted and to really appreciate the little things in everyday.
Thankyou to Natalie for sharing your story with us.
3 Days to Live by James Patterson
mysterious
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? It's complicated
3.0
Three short stories by 3 different authors with James Patterson. I have been a huge Patterson fan for a long time and I know he collabs with various authors but I felt like these 3 stories didn't quite hit the mark.
Story one - 3 days to live wasn't that bad and I think as a Full length novel it would have been a great read.
Sadly story 2 and 3 felt just confusing at times and it wasn't always easy to follow the story. Numerous characters to keep.track of also.
I wish I loved these more.
Story one - 3 days to live wasn't that bad and I think as a Full length novel it would have been a great read.
Sadly story 2 and 3 felt just confusing at times and it wasn't always easy to follow the story. Numerous characters to keep.track of also.
I wish I loved these more.
We Could Be Heroes by PJ Ellis
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
PJ Ellis is an absolute legend, personal opinion of course but all LGBTQIA+ book lovers, if you don't agree after reading this adorable rom-com then who even are you 😉 😀
Patrick was a closeted, American Movie star playing the role of a superhero but he had to give up being his true self in order to pursue his career. Will was an iconic drag queen who sadly doubted himself but lived a true life. After a chance encounter they had the most beautiful chemistry and one or two explosive encounters 😉 Despite their blossoming romance with an NDA as a third wheel can their relationship survive?
Their individual friends were a blessing in disguise as they rooted for them from the sidelines and supported them both when they needed it.
From a personal perspective I could relate to both Patrick and Will. Coming out to your family alone, letalone friends etc is a daunting task and the fear of rejection is real. On the other side of the coin being your authentic self doesn't come plain sailing and although its more accepted these days unfortunately there can still be hate and slander.
I loved the dual timeline, with the introduction of the real authors of Captain Kismet from back in the 40's. I think their role synced really well with the rest of the story and actually gave us readers insight into how things were for those in the LGBTQIA + community years ago.
An absolutely spectacular read and I actually think this is my favourite book of the year so far. I already cannot wait to see what the author writes next.
I cannot thank @instabooktours, @harpernorthuk & @philipellis enough for a spot on the tour & a copy of the book.
Patrick was a closeted, American Movie star playing the role of a superhero but he had to give up being his true self in order to pursue his career. Will was an iconic drag queen who sadly doubted himself but lived a true life. After a chance encounter they had the most beautiful chemistry and one or two explosive encounters 😉 Despite their blossoming romance with an NDA as a third wheel can their relationship survive?
Their individual friends were a blessing in disguise as they rooted for them from the sidelines and supported them both when they needed it.
From a personal perspective I could relate to both Patrick and Will. Coming out to your family alone, letalone friends etc is a daunting task and the fear of rejection is real. On the other side of the coin being your authentic self doesn't come plain sailing and although its more accepted these days unfortunately there can still be hate and slander.
I loved the dual timeline, with the introduction of the real authors of Captain Kismet from back in the 40's. I think their role synced really well with the rest of the story and actually gave us readers insight into how things were for those in the LGBTQIA + community years ago.
An absolutely spectacular read and I actually think this is my favourite book of the year so far. I already cannot wait to see what the author writes next.
I cannot thank @instabooktours, @harpernorthuk & @philipellis enough for a spot on the tour & a copy of the book.
Truth Truth Lie by Claire McGowan
dark
mysterious
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? It's complicated
5.0
Think locked room thriller film.. but as a book and you've nailed it. Honestly it was superb. I was pretty freaked out, I can't even lie.
Surprisingly I didn't stick to the readalong schedule haha damn it I just couldn't. After just the day one chapters I found myself driving along thinking about what might come next, who is going to die, was there a psycho stalker trapped on the island too and all the rest of it. Meh I finished like 7 days early and I'm not even sorry.
Like imagine being stuck on an island with the possibility your either with a bunch of killers, or a bunch of you are going to be killed. Like crikey the anticipation was real! I was highly engaged from beginning to end.
The characters were class, they all had different personalities and lifestyles and that really helped set the dynamics a little bit. I loved Amira but even she had a sinister side to her personality.
No spoilers here.. so whose gonna die on the island?? Get ya seat belt on for a mysterious and thrilling ride.
Huge thanks to Tandem Collective, Amazon Publishing and of course Claire McGowan for a copy of the book and for hosting the readalong I had no self control to stick to.
Surprisingly I didn't stick to the readalong schedule haha damn it I just couldn't. After just the day one chapters I found myself driving along thinking about what might come next, who is going to die, was there a psycho stalker trapped on the island too and all the rest of it. Meh I finished like 7 days early and I'm not even sorry.
Like imagine being stuck on an island with the possibility your either with a bunch of killers, or a bunch of you are going to be killed. Like crikey the anticipation was real! I was highly engaged from beginning to end.
The characters were class, they all had different personalities and lifestyles and that really helped set the dynamics a little bit. I loved Amira but even she had a sinister side to her personality.
No spoilers here.. so whose gonna die on the island?? Get ya seat belt on for a mysterious and thrilling ride.
Huge thanks to Tandem Collective, Amazon Publishing and of course Claire McGowan for a copy of the book and for hosting the readalong I had no self control to stick to.
Lucky Day by Beth Morrey
adventurous
funny
inspiring
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.0
Sometimes you just need a book that gives you all the belly laughs.
Do you ever just wish you could have a No Day, A f*#k everything day. Well our Protagonist Clover does just that. Not by sole choice, she has a headache takes some tablets and well the rest is just hilarious.
I absolutely loved Beths debut novel, so saw this one and jumped at the chance to read it. Her characters are always flawed, relatable and imperfect and I love that!
Alongside navigating Clovers f*#k it day we flick back to the past occasionally and gain a bit of insight into the reason she is taken advantage of, the reason she tries to help everyone and be kind to everyone & the reason she struggles to say no. Her mother!
This book is perfect for anyone having a bad day, a bad week, a mid life crisis honestly it'll cheer you right up. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC opportunity.
Do you ever just wish you could have a No Day, A f*#k everything day. Well our Protagonist Clover does just that. Not by sole choice, she has a headache takes some tablets and well the rest is just hilarious.
I absolutely loved Beths debut novel, so saw this one and jumped at the chance to read it. Her characters are always flawed, relatable and imperfect and I love that!
Alongside navigating Clovers f*#k it day we flick back to the past occasionally and gain a bit of insight into the reason she is taken advantage of, the reason she tries to help everyone and be kind to everyone & the reason she struggles to say no. Her mother!
This book is perfect for anyone having a bad day, a bad week, a mid life crisis honestly it'll cheer you right up. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC opportunity.
Heller's Angels by Ashley Wright
adventurous
dark
mysterious
tense
medium-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? No
4.0
Ya know I was damn right surprised by this book and how much I actually enjoyed it.
The author approached me asking if I'd kindly receive a copy in exchange for a review and after reading the synopsis my attention was definitely caught.
However I was still a little hesitant as to whether I would enjoy it or not.
Turns out I did.
Before I start TW - child death, brutality, murder
This book according to the publisher is aimed at YA however I think its worth being aware of above triggers. Although child death / murder only appears once its something to be aware of.
The storyline is a little far fetched in places and I was here for it. I even had to chuckle around chapter 11 because even the characters themselves have trouble believing part of the narrative.
"Well" said Glass, folding her arms. " I have to say, I do love a good fairytale."
It was at this moment I was entirely invested!
The characters were well thought out and developed. I was wholly invested in Leo's journey and his determination to be reunited with his dad. He did tug in my heart strings a little. I also loved the sense of community / family in the bond of the 'Angels' it was endearing especially with everything they had gone through not only together but individually too.
The last few chapters had me on tenterhooks and I'm hoping there is a book 2 now for sure.. there just has to be.
Also if you read my reviews ya know they are short n sweet and spoiler free so there is no exceptions here. If you're a fan of books that are past and fantasy combined then this is definitely a recommendation for you.
A massive thanks again to the author.
P.S I hope your writing book 2!
The author approached me asking if I'd kindly receive a copy in exchange for a review and after reading the synopsis my attention was definitely caught.
However I was still a little hesitant as to whether I would enjoy it or not.
Turns out I did.
Before I start TW - child death, brutality, murder
This book according to the publisher is aimed at YA however I think its worth being aware of above triggers. Although child death / murder only appears once its something to be aware of.
The storyline is a little far fetched in places and I was here for it. I even had to chuckle around chapter 11 because even the characters themselves have trouble believing part of the narrative.
"Well" said Glass, folding her arms. " I have to say, I do love a good fairytale."
It was at this moment I was entirely invested!
The characters were well thought out and developed. I was wholly invested in Leo's journey and his determination to be reunited with his dad. He did tug in my heart strings a little. I also loved the sense of community / family in the bond of the 'Angels' it was endearing especially with everything they had gone through not only together but individually too.
The last few chapters had me on tenterhooks and I'm hoping there is a book 2 now for sure.. there just has to be.
Also if you read my reviews ya know they are short n sweet and spoiler free so there is no exceptions here. If you're a fan of books that are past and fantasy combined then this is definitely a recommendation for you.
A massive thanks again to the author.
P.S I hope your writing book 2!
Content Warnings
Moderate: Murder, Child death, and Death of parent