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bookaroundandfindout's reviews
169 reviews
The Memo: What Women of Color Need to Know to Secure a Seat at the Table by Minda Harts
informative
inspiring
reflective
fast-paced
5.0
I found this book very helpful as a WOC and the tips and stories were quite insightful. I related a lot with some of the authors discoveries about the challenges of the workplace for WOC and how to navigate them. Definitely a great read if you’re looking for the confidence free to get ahead at work and life !
To Snap a Silver Stem by Sarah A. Parker
dark
emotional
mysterious
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
Ugh what the heck. Again, writing is beautiful, plot is confusing as hell. Main FMC is annoying and childish with literally no growth to. She’s an idiot and a child and for five second I thought we would learn more about her but nope, she was too busy being irritating and annoying. I stuck through because the ending actually did stress me out and I’ve started the third book but over all this has been an exhausting read for me.
To Bleed a Crystal Bloom by Sarah A. Parker
dark
emotional
mysterious
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.25
So I’m reading this after reading When the Moon Hatched and I give it four stars because I like the way Sarah A. Parker writes. She has a way of world building and emotion building that’s fascinating and can really grip you.
Thanks being said, Oralaith is literally the epitome of messed up junkie kid cuz of childhood trauma. This book is her origin story so it goes kind of slow and there’s an emphasis on her drug habits and why they are there but honestly I am flabbergasted that all these adults around her just let this happen. She’s also childish and impulsive and you kind of hate her at times because it feels like she has no redeemable qualities at all. I’m used to more independent FMCs but I guess that’s literally the point. She’s sheltered and hidden from herself in a way and part of it is her doing.
But the other part is her, “Master”, Rhordyn. I literally think he’s such an asshole and I think he’s toxic AF not to mention he’s had her as his ward since she was a baby and he rescued her but never tells her anything about herself or her family which he probably knows. On top of it she’s obsessed with him and I don’t like it cuz I have a feeling she’s his mate but like also how old is he?? And he’s not nice at all??
Orlaith gets some semblance of a backbone toward the end of the book and I had enough curiosity to go ahead and start reading the next book so I guess we will see what the plot becomes then. Becuase right now there wasn’t really much of a plot ? So while the writing is good the storyline is slow which is probably why this is rated lower than the next two books.
Thanks being said, Oralaith is literally the epitome of messed up junkie kid cuz of childhood trauma. This book is her origin story so it goes kind of slow and there’s an emphasis on her drug habits and why they are there but honestly I am flabbergasted that all these adults around her just let this happen. She’s also childish and impulsive and you kind of hate her at times because it feels like she has no redeemable qualities at all. I’m used to more independent FMCs but I guess that’s literally the point. She’s sheltered and hidden from herself in a way and part of it is her doing.
But the other part is her, “Master”, Rhordyn. I literally think he’s such an asshole and I think he’s toxic AF not to mention he’s had her as his ward since she was a baby and he rescued her but never tells her anything about herself or her family which he probably knows. On top of it she’s obsessed with him and I don’t like it cuz I have a feeling she’s his mate but like also how old is he?? And he’s not nice at all??
Orlaith gets some semblance of a backbone toward the end of the book and I had enough curiosity to go ahead and start reading the next book so I guess we will see what the plot becomes then. Becuase right now there wasn’t really much of a plot ? So while the writing is good the storyline is slow which is probably why this is rated lower than the next two books.
The Order: Kingdom of Fallen Ash by Katerina St Clair
adventurous
dark
emotional
mysterious
reflective
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
Set in a dystopian world where society is sharply divided between the privileged Untouchables and the impoverished Unfortunates, *Kingdom of Fallen Ash* follows the intertwining lives of Forest, an ambitious Untouchable who begins to unravel the truth behind her society’s oppressive structure, and Fallan, an Unfortunate driven by a deep-seated desire for vengeance. As the secrets of their world unfold, they must navigate a web of lies, rebellion, and the harsh realities of their divided society. Together, they confront the question: can free will exist in a world so steeped in deception?
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, especially the storyline. The society depicted in the novel is one where nothing is as it seems, and the protagonist, Forest, is determined to separate truth from the lies that are literally implanted in people’s brains. The sci-fi aspect of the story is eerily relevant, considering how our society is edging closer to technologies like health-monitoring chips.
The sexual tension between Forest and Fallan was absolutely delightful. I’m a sucker for the "I hate you because I love you" trope, and these two characters nailed it. Their connection feels fated, yet I find myself equally intrigued by Xavier. He’s painted as a villain but insists he isn’t? Since he didn’t come from New Haven I really want to know where did he come from? Could there be other societies out there?
The writing did get a little awkward after Forest and Fallan finally gave in to their urges (FINALLY!), but the plot was so captivating that I can easily overlook a few clunky sentences. I’m already diving into the second book and can't wait to devour the entire series. There are currently four prequel books that set the stage for the six main books in the series, one of which is already published. I hope Katerina speeds up the process because I’m ready to binge them all!
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, especially the storyline. The society depicted in the novel is one where nothing is as it seems, and the protagonist, Forest, is determined to separate truth from the lies that are literally implanted in people’s brains. The sci-fi aspect of the story is eerily relevant, considering how our society is edging closer to technologies like health-monitoring chips.
The sexual tension between Forest and Fallan was absolutely delightful. I’m a sucker for the "I hate you because I love you" trope, and these two characters nailed it. Their connection feels fated, yet I find myself equally intrigued by Xavier. He’s painted as a villain but insists he isn’t? Since he didn’t come from New Haven I really want to know where did he come from? Could there be other societies out there?
The writing did get a little awkward after Forest and Fallan finally gave in to their urges (FINALLY!), but the plot was so captivating that I can easily overlook a few clunky sentences. I’m already diving into the second book and can't wait to devour the entire series. There are currently four prequel books that set the stage for the six main books in the series, one of which is already published. I hope Katerina speeds up the process because I’m ready to binge them all!
A Dance Macabre by Naomi Loud
dark
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
4.0
Really entertaining book the enemies to lovers is super intense. I love the spice and it seems that the story plot will thicken in the next book. Overall very spicy, nice banter between the MMC and FMC and I was entertained. This is a little dark so be sure to read the TW.
Middle of the Night by Riley Sager
mysterious
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
This story revolves around a group of children who experience significant childhood trauma, which they, in turn, inflict on other kids, perpetuating a cycle of lifelong trauma into adulthood. The narrative follows the main character, whose best friend, Billy, goes missing on his watch, adding layers of guilt and anxiety.
As far as thrillers go, this was okay. I wasn't the biggest fan because when I read thrillers, I like to feel thrilled. Instead, I felt incredibly anxious because the main character was incredibly anxious, which stressed me out and annoyed me. This is probably the point, considering his best friend's disappearance. We get a front-row seat to many adults who never reconciled their problems from youth, which festered into something much darker as they grew older. Everyone in Hemlock Circle is kind of weird, tormented, and dishonest over the 30-year span covered in the narrative, which alternates between different characters and "That Night" (the night Billy went missing).
I will say that the killer was not who I expected. There were a lot of little breadcrumbs throughout the book, but they didn't come together as I thought they would.
I've heard Riley Sager has some great books, but this is his newest one, and while it was mildly entertaining, I look forward to reading his other works to see what the hype is all about.
As far as thrillers go, this was okay. I wasn't the biggest fan because when I read thrillers, I like to feel thrilled. Instead, I felt incredibly anxious because the main character was incredibly anxious, which stressed me out and annoyed me. This is probably the point, considering his best friend's disappearance. We get a front-row seat to many adults who never reconciled their problems from youth, which festered into something much darker as they grew older. Everyone in Hemlock Circle is kind of weird, tormented, and dishonest over the 30-year span covered in the narrative, which alternates between different characters and "That Night" (the night Billy went missing).
I will say that the killer was not who I expected. There were a lot of little breadcrumbs throughout the book, but they didn't come together as I thought they would.
I've heard Riley Sager has some great books, but this is his newest one, and while it was mildly entertaining, I look forward to reading his other works to see what the hype is all about.
The Last Murder at the End of the World by Stuart Turton
adventurous
lighthearted
mysterious
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
'The Last Murder at the End of the World' is a fast-paced whodunit murder mystery set in a society governed by an AI narrator. The story begins on an island enveloped by a deadly fog, protected by a technological barrier. The inhabitants live under the rule of the Elders and appear content despite waking up with mysterious cuts, bruises, and no memory of their causes. Everything seems fine—until a murder occurs.
The plot thickens as the islanders realize they must solve the murder to prevent their collective demise, yet Abi, the AI, cannot reveal what happened. This premise offers a unique and intriguing exploration of what it means to be a person versus being human and the concept of humanity itself. The AI's bio-program, based on one of the Elders' paradigms, adds a fascinating layer to the narrative, prompting readers to ponder if our world might someday resemble this AI-driven society.
A significant theme in the book is the emphasis on serving the community. Everyone on the island has a role and a purpose, contributing to the greater good. This makes the protagonist, Emory, stand out as she feels purposeless and different, becoming almost a stranger in her own village. However, Emory's uniqueness becomes her strength. She does the one thing no one else considers: she questions the status quo. In the end, she emerges as the MVP, solving the murder through her curiosity and determination.
I found this book both unique and enjoyable. It's a substantial read, but it's fun and thought-provoking, making it an excellent choice for book clubs. The interplay between the AI and human elements, along with the tension of the murder mystery, kept me engaged throughout. The exploration of community, purpose, and individuality, combined with the innovative use of AI, makes this book a compelling read.
The plot thickens as the islanders realize they must solve the murder to prevent their collective demise, yet Abi, the AI, cannot reveal what happened. This premise offers a unique and intriguing exploration of what it means to be a person versus being human and the concept of humanity itself. The AI's bio-program, based on one of the Elders' paradigms, adds a fascinating layer to the narrative, prompting readers to ponder if our world might someday resemble this AI-driven society.
A significant theme in the book is the emphasis on serving the community. Everyone on the island has a role and a purpose, contributing to the greater good. This makes the protagonist, Emory, stand out as she feels purposeless and different, becoming almost a stranger in her own village. However, Emory's uniqueness becomes her strength. She does the one thing no one else considers: she questions the status quo. In the end, she emerges as the MVP, solving the murder through her curiosity and determination.
I found this book both unique and enjoyable. It's a substantial read, but it's fun and thought-provoking, making it an excellent choice for book clubs. The interplay between the AI and human elements, along with the tension of the murder mystery, kept me engaged throughout. The exploration of community, purpose, and individuality, combined with the innovative use of AI, makes this book a compelling read.
Shift by Hugh Howey
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
mysterious
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
WOW. I am literally stunned speechless.
In "Wool," we witnessed the Silo world unravel as secrets were revealed about what the silo is and what the outside world looks like. The story is set in a post-apocalyptic future where humanity lives in a giant underground silo, and stepping outside is a death sentence. The narrative centers around Juliette, a mechanic who rises to leadership and starts uncovering the harsh truths about their existence. We saw a lot of internal conflict, politics, and deceit within the hierarchy of the silo, especially looking at the lower levels and how the ruling class maintained control over the population.
Juliette is back in the silo, but "Shift," the second book, really gives us what we want - the origins of the silos and where they came from. "Shift" takes us back to the beginning, to the creation of the silos and the events that led to humanity's downfall. We follow the story of Donald, a congressman in our current world, who is manipulated into creating the silos as a safeguard against an impending disaster. The book alternates between different timelines, showing us the construction of the silos and the early days of their inhabitants.
This book really had me feeling crazy with all the hardships of this world that one crazy dude made happen. That’s what it essentially boils down to - one senator thinking he could outsmart everyone and control the future. The complexity of the characters, especially Donald, who grapples with the morality of his actions, adds depth to the story. Howey masterfully intertwines political intrigue, psychological tension, and survival instincts, making "Shift" a compelling read that expands the universe introduced in "Wool."
What struck me the most is the complexity of what it means to be a savior. The mission of Silo 1, where they work in shifts to maintain control over the other silos and ensure the long-term survival of humanity, is both fascinating and disturbing. The idea that they decided, 500 years later, they would choose one part of the silo to survive is something I didn't fully grasp. It raises profound questions about the ethics of their mission and the psychological toll on those deemed "saviors." The fact that these people are working tirelessly with the knowledge that they are the gatekeepers of humanity’s future adds a layer of complexity to their roles and the overall narrative.
Moreover, the individuals in Silo 1 don’t fully know why they’re doing what they’re doing because they “forget” their past and general identities. This element adds to the eerie and tragic nature of their existence. By the end of the book, it seems moot because those in Silo 1 will ultimately never have a normal life, including the frozen people who are in suspended animation. Donald is a fascinating character as he navigates this morally ambiguous role, torn between his sense of duty and the realization of the consequences of their mission.
Another highlight of "Shift" is that we finally understand Jimmy’s mind and psyche before we meet him through Juliette’s perspective in "Wool." His story provides a deeper understanding of his character and the experiences that shaped him, making his later actions and interactions with Juliette more profound and poignant.
"Shift" not only delves into the origins of the silos but also raises questions about human nature, power, and the lengths to which people will go to ensure their survival. It’s a gripping continuation of the saga that leaves you craving for more
In "Wool," we witnessed the Silo world unravel as secrets were revealed about what the silo is and what the outside world looks like. The story is set in a post-apocalyptic future where humanity lives in a giant underground silo, and stepping outside is a death sentence. The narrative centers around Juliette, a mechanic who rises to leadership and starts uncovering the harsh truths about their existence. We saw a lot of internal conflict, politics, and deceit within the hierarchy of the silo, especially looking at the lower levels and how the ruling class maintained control over the population.
Juliette is back in the silo, but "Shift," the second book, really gives us what we want - the origins of the silos and where they came from. "Shift" takes us back to the beginning, to the creation of the silos and the events that led to humanity's downfall. We follow the story of Donald, a congressman in our current world, who is manipulated into creating the silos as a safeguard against an impending disaster. The book alternates between different timelines, showing us the construction of the silos and the early days of their inhabitants.
This book really had me feeling crazy with all the hardships of this world that one crazy dude made happen. That’s what it essentially boils down to - one senator thinking he could outsmart everyone and control the future. The complexity of the characters, especially Donald, who grapples with the morality of his actions, adds depth to the story. Howey masterfully intertwines political intrigue, psychological tension, and survival instincts, making "Shift" a compelling read that expands the universe introduced in "Wool."
What struck me the most is the complexity of what it means to be a savior. The mission of Silo 1, where they work in shifts to maintain control over the other silos and ensure the long-term survival of humanity, is both fascinating and disturbing. The idea that they decided, 500 years later, they would choose one part of the silo to survive is something I didn't fully grasp. It raises profound questions about the ethics of their mission and the psychological toll on those deemed "saviors." The fact that these people are working tirelessly with the knowledge that they are the gatekeepers of humanity’s future adds a layer of complexity to their roles and the overall narrative.
Moreover, the individuals in Silo 1 don’t fully know why they’re doing what they’re doing because they “forget” their past and general identities. This element adds to the eerie and tragic nature of their existence. By the end of the book, it seems moot because those in Silo 1 will ultimately never have a normal life, including the frozen people who are in suspended animation. Donald is a fascinating character as he navigates this morally ambiguous role, torn between his sense of duty and the realization of the consequences of their mission.
Another highlight of "Shift" is that we finally understand Jimmy’s mind and psyche before we meet him through Juliette’s perspective in "Wool." His story provides a deeper understanding of his character and the experiences that shaped him, making his later actions and interactions with Juliette more profound and poignant.
"Shift" not only delves into the origins of the silos but also raises questions about human nature, power, and the lengths to which people will go to ensure their survival. It’s a gripping continuation of the saga that leaves you craving for more
Thrum by Meg Smitherman
dark
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Oh my god what an arousingly creepy mind fuck book!
I LOVED IT.
Ami is lost in space. She wakes up to her crew dead (they never woke up from their sleep statis), no fuel, no communicator, and the vastness of space before her with the reality that everyone she loved on Earth is already dead.
So yeah, her psychological well being is probably not the greatest right.
By a miracle she is able to hail a ship nearby with a short comm distress signal. As she leaves the ship she feels some excitement and a lot of fear.
Alien life, how exciting! That is...until she sees it. Until she sees <i>him</i>.
Dorian Grey.
He looks like a human, except not...something is so off about him -asides from his painfully beautiful looks. Something is off about everything, the entire ship. And Ami finds herself wondering who the hell is he and where the hell is she and what the hell is going on with this ship.
This book totally creeped me out and I am so HAPPY about that! Meg's writing is fantastic, keeping it simple and really leading the reader around in circles making us go crazy along with Ami, all the while keeping us on our toes about this tension between Ami and Dorian. The question of what is reality is the main plot theme in this book and I found it enthralling. She has me curled up n a ball frantically reading because I NEEDED to know what happened to Ami's crew and her ship and is Ami going to be okay?? I felt horrified, turned on, creeped out, scared, curious, wigged out completely so she did a great job.
As her debut horror/scifi/sort-of romanatasy novel, I am so impressed. I'm excited to read her other work and hope she keeps writing more in this scifi world!
I LOVED IT.
Ami is lost in space. She wakes up to her crew dead (they never woke up from their sleep statis), no fuel, no communicator, and the vastness of space before her with the reality that everyone she loved on Earth is already dead.
So yeah, her psychological well being is probably not the greatest right.
By a miracle she is able to hail a ship nearby with a short comm distress signal. As she leaves the ship she feels some excitement and a lot of fear.
Alien life, how exciting! That is...until she sees it. Until she sees <i>him</i>.
Dorian Grey.
He looks like a human, except not...something is so off about him -asides from his painfully beautiful looks. Something is off about everything, the entire ship. And Ami finds herself wondering who the hell is he and where the hell is she and what the hell is going on with this ship.
This book totally creeped me out and I am so HAPPY about that! Meg's writing is fantastic, keeping it simple and really leading the reader around in circles making us go crazy along with Ami, all the while keeping us on our toes about this tension between Ami and Dorian. The question of what is reality is the main plot theme in this book and I found it enthralling. She has me curled up n a ball frantically reading because I NEEDED to know what happened to Ami's crew and her ship and is Ami going to be okay?? I felt horrified, turned on, creeped out, scared, curious, wigged out completely so she did a great job.
As her debut horror/scifi/sort-of romanatasy novel, I am so impressed. I'm excited to read her other work and hope she keeps writing more in this scifi world!
Wool by Hugh Howey
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
sad
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
5.0
This book is absolutely BRILLIANT! I’ve watched the Silo series and let me tell you you’re not read for the crazy shit that’s going to ensue here.
I think my favorite part of this series is that it isn’t necessarily happy - it’s very realistic and there’s so much interplay of characters that you could argue that Juliette is the main one but there’s so many other people who, all together as a community, really shape the changes that occur in the Silo.
The send of mistrust that carries through the book is so satisfyingly eliminated -ehem- and we really get to see the dystopian vibes and ponder what the hell happened to the world that they live in.
I am so excited to start the next book in this series. I 100% recommend this if you’re into the end of the world type of vibes and dystopian energy!
I think my favorite part of this series is that it isn’t necessarily happy - it’s very realistic and there’s so much interplay of characters that you could argue that Juliette is the main one but there’s so many other people who, all together as a community, really shape the changes that occur in the Silo.
The send of mistrust that carries through the book is so satisfyingly eliminated -ehem- and we really get to see the dystopian vibes and ponder what the hell happened to the world that they live in.
I am so excited to start the next book in this series. I 100% recommend this if you’re into the end of the world type of vibes and dystopian energy!