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betweentheshelves's reviews
2736 reviews
Everything Is Poison by Joy McCullough
dark
emotional
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
What I liked about this in particular is that there aren't a lot of YA books set in this time period. So much YA historical fiction is set during WWII, and this is not. Yay! In line with McCullough's other works, this is definitely a feminist work, pointing out the inequalities of the time and how women coped with being in abusive relationships.
Overall, the story is well researched, with a lot of interesting historical information woven throughout the plot. Because of the focus on the facts and the setting of the story, we do lose some characterization, but I wasn't necessarily mad about it. Though I listened to the audiobook, there is also poetry woven throughout the narrative.
If you enjoy 17th century feminist stories, definitely pick this one up!
Overall, the story is well researched, with a lot of interesting historical information woven throughout the plot. Because of the focus on the facts and the setting of the story, we do lose some characterization, but I wasn't necessarily mad about it. Though I listened to the audiobook, there is also poetry woven throughout the narrative.
If you enjoy 17th century feminist stories, definitely pick this one up!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Domestic abuse, Emotional abuse, and Pregnancy
Moderate: Miscarriage, Physical abuse, and Abortion
Minor: Child abuse, Infertility, and Sexual assault
Bree Boyd Is a Legend by Leah Johnson
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
fast-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
4.0
Thanks to NetGalley and Disney Hyperion for an advanced copy of Bree Boyd is a Legend by Leah Johnson to review! Leah Johnson is definitely a favorite of mine, and I love that she's ventured into the middle grade market. Ellie Engle Saves Herself was a favorite of mine last year, so jumping back into that world was fun!
Let's start with the characters. You'll see a lot of familiar faces if you've read the first book, but we also get to meet some new people! Bree is a fantastic narrator, especially as she learns to let go a little. Her dad puts so much pressure on her, and part of her arc is learning how to do things that are fun. Things that are just for her. There are a lot of middle grade readers who will likely relate to her story.
One of the things I loved most was Bree's relationships with her sisters. They all work together to figure out how to communicate to their dad, and they all definitely get to a better place by the end. It feels realistic and relatable, and shows middle school readers that they can have difficult conversations with the adults in their lives.
This is a great read for anyone who loves realistic stories with a touch of magic. If you've been sleeping on Leah Johnson, this is the year to pick up her books!
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Review to come!
A Language of Dragons by S.F. Williamson
adventurous
emotional
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? Yes
4.0
Honestly, I know this is being comped as "Fourth Wing meets Babel," and though I haven't read Babel, the only thing this book really has in common with Fourth Wing is the dragons. And even then, we don't necessarily see a lot of character interaction with the dragons until the end. Just something to keep in mind if you're picking it up for that reason!
Set in a post-WWI Britain but with dragons, I was hooked in this from the beginning. Williamson has crafted characters that are morally complex, making decisions that maybe aren't always the best. The book itself starts of with a bang, drawing you in with the action and following with the political intrigue and academic nature of translating. Personally, I found those things interesting, but there is a bit a lull in the middle as they explore the intricacies of the dragon language. However, the ending will definitely make it difficult to put down.
It seems like there will be another book in the series, as the ending is left open for another story (personally, I am hoping there is more!). If you like historical fantasy and rebellion stories where the protagonist slowly learns about the reality of her world, then this is definitely the book for you.
Set in a post-WWI Britain but with dragons, I was hooked in this from the beginning. Williamson has crafted characters that are morally complex, making decisions that maybe aren't always the best. The book itself starts of with a bang, drawing you in with the action and following with the political intrigue and academic nature of translating. Personally, I found those things interesting, but there is a bit a lull in the middle as they explore the intricacies of the dragon language. However, the ending will definitely make it difficult to put down.
It seems like there will be another book in the series, as the ending is left open for another story (personally, I am hoping there is more!). If you like historical fantasy and rebellion stories where the protagonist slowly learns about the reality of her world, then this is definitely the book for you.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Violence, War, and Classism
Moderate: Death, Gun violence, and Murder
Minor: Child abuse, Sexual content, and Torture
Sue & Tai-Chan 1 by Konami Kanata
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
Well isn't this just adorable. This is my cats, minus them getting along towards the end because my elderly female cat definitely doesn't get along with my younger boy cat. But it was just the thing I needed to read this weekend, perfect for anyone with cats in their lives. If you're a cat owner, you will definitely relate.
Brewed With Love by Shelly Page
lighthearted
mysterious
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
4.5
This was so cute! It definitely reminded me of Mooncakes by Suzanne Young, with the cozy witchy vibes and a bit of a mystery. The chemistry between Sage and Ximena is absolutely what drives the story forward, with a cast of side characters that really bring the world to life. The magic system felt unique and interesting, especially with how it tied into the mystery overall.
If you're looking for something cute and uplifting to read this January, definitely check this one out!
If you're looking for something cute and uplifting to read this January, definitely check this one out!
Content Warnings
Minor: Chronic illness and Death of parent
Prophecy: Fractured Kingdom, Book 1 by M.L. Fergus
adventurous
funny
hopeful
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.0
While I was hooked at the beginning, I feel mixed about this one. In general, the story was interesting, with some twists and turns along the way. I think it was the writing style that turned me off. There were just some moments that felt awkward and clunky, and the whole slavery thing felt...odd to me. However, the characters were pretty well developed, and the villain in this is one of the darker villains I've read in a long time.
I did see one of the twists coming towards the end, but if you like political fantasy, definitely check this one out!
I did see one of the twists coming towards the end, but if you like political fantasy, definitely check this one out!
Content Warnings
Minor: Pregnancy
Where Wolves Don't Die by Anton Treuer
adventurous
emotional
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? Yes
4.5
This book took me by surprise! Not only are the characters so well done and the pacing done just right, there's so much in here about Ojibwe culture and how it affects Ezra in his day to day life. You will fall in love with his Grandpa for sure, and Ezra's family in general.
There is a mystery/thriller aspect to this, but it takes a backseat towards the middle of the book as Ezra learns about the trapping line from his Grandpa. It is truly fascinating to read about, and the information that Treuer provides doesn't feel like it weighs down the story; it adds to it. Definitely one to keep on your radar!
There is a mystery/thriller aspect to this, but it takes a backseat towards the middle of the book as Ezra learns about the trapping line from his Grandpa. It is truly fascinating to read about, and the information that Treuer provides doesn't feel like it weighs down the story; it adds to it. Definitely one to keep on your radar!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Animal death, Child death, and Death of parent
Moderate: Death, Drug use, and Sexual harassment
Minor: Miscarriage, Physical abuse, and Suicidal thoughts
Chronically Dolores by Maya Van Wagenen
emotional
funny
hopeful
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? Yes
3.5
Always appreciate YA books that feature younger protagonists because in the age of social media, that seems to be more and more difficult to find. But that's a whole other conversation! There are a lot of things to like about this book, from the disability/chronic illness rep to the journey to figuring out changing friendships to changing family situations. So many things that a lot of teens will relate to for sure.
I think listening to it did me a diservice because some of the sections where Dolores would zone out would confuse me at times. But overall, this is enjoyable and fits a niche that's missing in the YA world.
I think listening to it did me a diservice because some of the sections where Dolores would zone out would confuse me at times. But overall, this is enjoyable and fits a niche that's missing in the YA world.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Ableism, Chronic illness, and Medical content
Moderate: Bullying, Panic attacks/disorders, and Sexism
Minor: Alcohol
A Song For You And I by K. O'Neill
hopeful
reflective
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Thanks to NetGalley and Random House Graphic for an advanced copy of A Song for You and I by K. O’Neill! O’Neill is always good for a cozy graphic novel story, and this one definitely fits the bill. Paired with their gorgeous artwork, this book will definitely allow you to escape the real world for a little while.
At its core, this is a story about growth, growing up, and learning from your mistakes. It’s also a story about identity and learning to be comfortable in your own skin. Especially when it comes to forming friendships and relationships with other people. This may be a quick read, but it is one that will linger once you are finished reading it.
As far as graphic novels go, this is heavier on the illustrations rather than the words. It lends itself well to immersing yourself in the story and just forgetting about the real world for a little while.
If you need something cozy to start your March with, definitely pick this one up!
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Review to come!
Content Warnings
Minor: Animal cruelty, Bullying, and Death
This Book Won't Burn by Samira Ahmed
emotional
inspiring
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? It's complicated
3.5
I'm torn about this book. Is it (unfortunately) currently relevant, and probably about to be more so with the upcoming administration? Yes. Are these things that a lot of teens are dealing with in this very moment? Yes. However, I do wonder if it hits a little too close to home because of that. I'm not sure how many teens will want to pick up something that is currently happening all around the country.
In general, this book is well written. The characters are strong, the pacing is pretty good for the most part, and Ahmed hits the far right book banning movement head on. If you read this and think that those people are absolutely ridiculous, you're right. But there are people in real life who sound like that. I do think this is an important story, and is a good jumping off point if you want to learn more about the current state of book banning in the United States.
In general, this book is well written. The characters are strong, the pacing is pretty good for the most part, and Ahmed hits the far right book banning movement head on. If you read this and think that those people are absolutely ridiculous, you're right. But there are people in real life who sound like that. I do think this is an important story, and is a good jumping off point if you want to learn more about the current state of book banning in the United States.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Hate crime, Homophobia, and Racism
Moderate: Racial slurs, Islamophobia, and Gaslighting
Minor: Bullying, Cursing, and Genocide