bacciogelato's reviews
27 reviews

White Cat, Black Dog by Kelly Link

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Did not finish book. Stopped at 14%.
Ran out of time - returned to library.
Yellowface by R.F. Kuang

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challenging reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

It is difficult to articulate the emotions I felt reading this. Increasing discomfort and cringing turning to anger, frustration, occasional empathy that the character just threw away with both hands. A fascinating look at the creative process and publishing industry, self-justification, entitlement, racism...


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The Berry Pickers by Amanda Peters

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emotional hopeful 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

Deeply moving. This is the author's debut novel - look forward to great things ahead.
Iron Widow by Xiran Jay Zhao

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adventurous challenging dark reflective 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

Exceptional world-building. complex characters and relationships. Fascinating blend of ancient Chinese culture and technology. Anxiously awaiting the sequel from my local library.
Bird Brains: The Intelligence of Crows, Ravens, Magpies, and Jays by Candace Savage

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informative medium-paced

3.75

A fascinating look at the intelligence of the Corvid family – crows, ravens, magpies and jays. Filled with fascinating facts and anecdotes. For example, birds have a unique double-barrelled vocal apparatus that allows them to utters two sounds or sing two songs simultaneously. A good choice for bird lovers and those with an interest in science.
The Wisteria Society of Lady Scoundrels by India Holton

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adventurous funny lighthearted medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? N/A
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A

3.75

Clever world-building - Victorian society in which female pirates break free from the patriarchy, flying their houses and engaging in thievery. There is a romance at the centre of the tale, but there are other plot threads that create a charming adventure story.
Resistance by Jennifer A. Nielsen

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adventurous inspiring sad medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.5

The Writing Retreat by Julia Bartz

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dark mysterious tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

The plot stretched credibility for me, and a major discovery mid-book lot intensity. The last portion was interesting but not compelling. 
The Stationery Shop by Marjan Kamali

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emotional inspiring reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes

4.5

Beautifully crafted. A story of love entangled with Iranian history. glimpses into Persian culture that will leave you hungry for tahdig and koresh. 
The Marlow Murder Club by Robert Thorogood

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adventurous funny mysterious medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No

4.0