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bookish_botanic_baker's reviews
61 reviews
Nightbane by Alex Aster
adventurous
mysterious
medium-paced
4.0
Nightbane, the highly anticipated sequel to Lightlark, plunges readers back into the vibrant and dangerous world of the Six Realms. Alex Aster delivers a thrilling continuation of Isla's story, expanding the lore and deepening the complex relationships that captivated readers in the first book. This installment sees Isla grappling with the fallout of her choices, navigating treacherous alliances, and uncovering shocking secrets about her past and the true nature of the Lightlark tournament. The stakes are higher than ever, and the constant threat of betrayal keeps the tension simmering throughout.
Aster's strength lies in her ability to craft compelling characters and intricate plots. Isla continues to be a fascinating protagonist, torn between her desires and her responsibilities. The dynamics between her and the other rulers are further explored, revealing hidden agendas and shifting loyalties. The world-building is also more expansive in Nightbane, offering glimpses into the unique cultures and magical systems of each realm. The fast-paced narrative and constant twists and turns will keep readers on the edge of their seats, eagerly devouring each chapter.
While the pacing is generally excellent, some readers might find the sheer amount of information and the numerous character perspectives a bit overwhelming at times. However, this complexity is also part of what makes the Lightlark series so engaging. The romantic entanglements are as passionate and dramatic as ever, adding another layer of intrigue to the story. Nightbane ends on a cliffhanger that will leave readers desperate for the final installment, solidifying Aster's place as a master of YA fantasy.
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars.
Aster's strength lies in her ability to craft compelling characters and intricate plots. Isla continues to be a fascinating protagonist, torn between her desires and her responsibilities. The dynamics between her and the other rulers are further explored, revealing hidden agendas and shifting loyalties. The world-building is also more expansive in Nightbane, offering glimpses into the unique cultures and magical systems of each realm. The fast-paced narrative and constant twists and turns will keep readers on the edge of their seats, eagerly devouring each chapter.
While the pacing is generally excellent, some readers might find the sheer amount of information and the numerous character perspectives a bit overwhelming at times. However, this complexity is also part of what makes the Lightlark series so engaging. The romantic entanglements are as passionate and dramatic as ever, adding another layer of intrigue to the story. Nightbane ends on a cliffhanger that will leave readers desperate for the final installment, solidifying Aster's place as a master of YA fantasy.
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars.
One of Us Is Back by Karen M. McManus
adventurous
mysterious
fast-paced
4.5
Karen M. McManus returns to Bayview High with a vengeance in "One of Us Is Back," a thrilling and twisty continuation of the "One of Us" saga. This isn't just a retreading of familiar ground; it's a clever expansion of the Bayview universe, introducing a new generation grappling with the fallout of the original "About That" app and the ever-present threat of secrets being exposed. A fresh cast of characters, each with their own hidden agendas, is drawn into a dangerous game when a new anonymous threat emerges, forcing them to confront their pasts and question everyone around them. McManus masterfully weaves together their narratives, keeping you guessing with relentless pacing and genuinely surprising twists. The red herrings are plentiful and cleverly placed, ensuring you'll be on the edge of your seat until the very end.
What sets "One of Us Is Back" apart is its masterful handling of suspense and its exploration of the lasting impact of the first book's events. The pacing is electric, with each chapter ending on a cliffhanger that leaves you craving more. While some familiar faces reappear, their roles are carefully integrated to enhance the current plot rather than simply relying on nostalgia. The character development, while perhaps not as deep as in the original, is still compelling, with each character contributing to the complex web of mystery. Their struggles with identity, peer pressure, and the weight of past mistakes resonate with the target audience, adding depth to the overall narrative.
While the sheer number of characters and plot threads can occasionally feel a bit overwhelming, this ultimately contributes to the complexity of the mystery and the overall sense of disorientation, which is arguably intentional. "One of Us Is Back" is a highly enjoyable and addictive read, and in my opinion, the best installment of the trilogy. It's a testament to McManus's skill as a storyteller and her ability to craft compelling mysteries that resonate with young adult readers. If you're looking for a fast-paced, suspenseful thriller with plenty of twists and turns, this is definitely one to pick up. Highly recommended!
What sets "One of Us Is Back" apart is its masterful handling of suspense and its exploration of the lasting impact of the first book's events. The pacing is electric, with each chapter ending on a cliffhanger that leaves you craving more. While some familiar faces reappear, their roles are carefully integrated to enhance the current plot rather than simply relying on nostalgia. The character development, while perhaps not as deep as in the original, is still compelling, with each character contributing to the complex web of mystery. Their struggles with identity, peer pressure, and the weight of past mistakes resonate with the target audience, adding depth to the overall narrative.
While the sheer number of characters and plot threads can occasionally feel a bit overwhelming, this ultimately contributes to the complexity of the mystery and the overall sense of disorientation, which is arguably intentional. "One of Us Is Back" is a highly enjoyable and addictive read, and in my opinion, the best installment of the trilogy. It's a testament to McManus's skill as a storyteller and her ability to craft compelling mysteries that resonate with young adult readers. If you're looking for a fast-paced, suspenseful thriller with plenty of twists and turns, this is definitely one to pick up. Highly recommended!
The Assassin Thief by Madeline Te Whiu
adventurous
medium-paced
3.0
Assassin Thief by Madeline Te Whiu has a lot of potential, but ultimately falls a little short of its mark. The premise is intriguing, blending elements of fantasy and heist, and Te Whiu's world-building shows promise. There are glimpses of a really interesting magic system and a diverse cast of characters that kept me engaged.
However, the pacing felt uneven. The story started strong, but then bogged down in the middle with what felt like unnecessary exposition and a few too many side quests. While world-building is important, some of it felt info-dumpy and slowed the narrative momentum. I also found some of the character development to be inconsistent. Some characters were richly drawn and complex, while others felt a bit one-dimensional.
The action sequences, when they occurred, were exciting and well-written, but they were too few and far between. I was hoping for more of the "thief" aspect to come into play, but the heists themselves felt rushed and lacked the intricate planning and execution I was expecting. The ending also felt a little abrupt, leaving some plot threads dangling.
Overall, Assassin Thief is a decent read with some good ideas and moments of brilliance. With a bit more polish and tighter pacing, it could have been a truly fantastic book. I'd be interested to see what Te Whiu does next and would consider reading future installments in this world.
However, the pacing felt uneven. The story started strong, but then bogged down in the middle with what felt like unnecessary exposition and a few too many side quests. While world-building is important, some of it felt info-dumpy and slowed the narrative momentum. I also found some of the character development to be inconsistent. Some characters were richly drawn and complex, while others felt a bit one-dimensional.
The action sequences, when they occurred, were exciting and well-written, but they were too few and far between. I was hoping for more of the "thief" aspect to come into play, but the heists themselves felt rushed and lacked the intricate planning and execution I was expecting. The ending also felt a little abrupt, leaving some plot threads dangling.
Overall, Assassin Thief is a decent read with some good ideas and moments of brilliance. With a bit more polish and tighter pacing, it could have been a truly fantastic book. I'd be interested to see what Te Whiu does next and would consider reading future installments in this world.
Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros
adventurous
dark
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
4.0
A Rocky Start, but a Strong Finish (Onyx Storm - The Empyrean #3)
Let me be honest, the first 30% of Onyx Storm nearly made me throw in the towel. I struggled to connect with the pacing, and I was seriously considering a DNF. It felt like a slow trudge after the adrenaline rush of Fourth Wing and iron flame. However, I decided to persevere, and I'm so glad I did.
Slowly but surely, Onyx Storm found its footing. The story began to pick up, and Yarros's writing started to shine through. By the halfway point, I was fully invested. The character development, particularly with Violet, really took off, and the political machinations and world-building started to deepen in fascinating ways.
The last half of this book is where it truly earned its stars. The action sequences were exciting, the stakes were raised, and the emotional beats hit just right. There were some genuinely surprising twists that kept me on the edge of my seat. While some plot points felt predictable at times, the ending left me wanting to dive directly into the next installment.
While the initial slog was a significant hurdle, Onyx Storm ultimately delivers a satisfying and thrilling read. It may not be as flawlessly executed as Fourth Wing, but it expands upon the world and characters in ways that make me excited for the future of the Empyrean series. This book reminded me that sometimes you need to push through the slow parts to get to the gold. I'm definitely not giving up on this series yet, and I'm eager to see where Yarros takes us next. 4 out of 5 stars.
Let me be honest, the first 30% of Onyx Storm nearly made me throw in the towel. I struggled to connect with the pacing, and I was seriously considering a DNF. It felt like a slow trudge after the adrenaline rush of Fourth Wing and iron flame. However, I decided to persevere, and I'm so glad I did.
Slowly but surely, Onyx Storm found its footing. The story began to pick up, and Yarros's writing started to shine through. By the halfway point, I was fully invested. The character development, particularly with Violet, really took off, and the political machinations and world-building started to deepen in fascinating ways.
The last half of this book is where it truly earned its stars. The action sequences were exciting, the stakes were raised, and the emotional beats hit just right. There were some genuinely surprising twists that kept me on the edge of my seat. While some plot points felt predictable at times, the ending left me wanting to dive directly into the next installment.
While the initial slog was a significant hurdle, Onyx Storm ultimately delivers a satisfying and thrilling read. It may not be as flawlessly executed as Fourth Wing, but it expands upon the world and characters in ways that make me excited for the future of the Empyrean series. This book reminded me that sometimes you need to push through the slow parts to get to the gold. I'm definitely not giving up on this series yet, and I'm eager to see where Yarros takes us next. 4 out of 5 stars.
Faebound by Saara El-Arifi
adventurous
mysterious
medium-paced
4.0
A Solid Fantasy Debut with Intriguing World-Building
Saara El-Arifi's "Faebound" is a promising start to what looks to be an engaging fantasy series. The world-building is a definite highlight, with a rich history and mythology that draws you in. The different realms and their inhabitants are well-crafted, each with their own distinct cultures and magical systems.
The story follows compelling characters with their own motivations and secrets. While the plot unfolds at a steady pace, there were moments where it felt slightly predictable. However, the unique magical elements and the exploration of themes like duty, sacrifice, and the clash between tradition and progress kept me invested.
El-Arifi's writing is vivid and descriptive, bringing the fantastical world to life. Though there were a few instances where the pacing lagged, the overall reading experience was enjoyable. "Faebound" is a solid fantasy novel with well-developed characters, a fascinating world, and a storyline that leaves you curious for what's to come. I'm eager to see where the series goes next.
Saara El-Arifi's "Faebound" is a promising start to what looks to be an engaging fantasy series. The world-building is a definite highlight, with a rich history and mythology that draws you in. The different realms and their inhabitants are well-crafted, each with their own distinct cultures and magical systems.
The story follows compelling characters with their own motivations and secrets. While the plot unfolds at a steady pace, there were moments where it felt slightly predictable. However, the unique magical elements and the exploration of themes like duty, sacrifice, and the clash between tradition and progress kept me invested.
El-Arifi's writing is vivid and descriptive, bringing the fantastical world to life. Though there were a few instances where the pacing lagged, the overall reading experience was enjoyable. "Faebound" is a solid fantasy novel with well-developed characters, a fascinating world, and a storyline that leaves you curious for what's to come. I'm eager to see where the series goes next.
Kill Joy by Holly Jackson
adventurous
mysterious
medium-paced
3.0
Kill Joy is a light and breezy read that offers a fun diversion for fans of the A Good Girl's Guide to Murder series. It's a quick, easy read, perfect for a short commute or a relaxing afternoon. The murder mystery party setting is a clever backdrop, and it's enjoyable to see Pip apply her deductive skills in a less high-stakes environment.
However, because it's a novella and essentially a self-contained story within a story, it lacks the depth and suspense of the main trilogy. The mystery itself is fairly predictable, and the stakes feel significantly lower. While it's nice to see Pip interacting with her friends and getting some background on her character, the overall plot feels a little thin.
Ultimately, Kill Joy serves its purpose as a supplementary story, but it's not essential reading. It's a fun, quick read, but those looking for the intricate plotting and intense suspense of the main series might find it a bit underwhelming. It's a decent addition, but not a standout.
However, because it's a novella and essentially a self-contained story within a story, it lacks the depth and suspense of the main trilogy. The mystery itself is fairly predictable, and the stakes feel significantly lower. While it's nice to see Pip interacting with her friends and getting some background on her character, the overall plot feels a little thin.
Ultimately, Kill Joy serves its purpose as a supplementary story, but it's not essential reading. It's a fun, quick read, but those looking for the intricate plotting and intense suspense of the main series might find it a bit underwhelming. It's a decent addition, but not a standout.
Good Girl, Bad Blood by Holly Jackson
adventurous
dark
mysterious
medium-paced
4.0
Good Girl, Bad Blood is a thrilling and suspenseful sequel that will keep you guessing until the very end. Holly Jackson crafts another intricate mystery full of twists and turns, making it a real page-turner. While it doesn't quite reach the heights of the first book, it's still a captivating read with strong character development and a compelling plot.
The story follows Pip as she navigates the complexities of another investigation, this time with a more personal connection. The stakes are higher, and the emotional depth added to the narrative makes for a gripping experience. However, some plot points feel slightly rushed, and a few convenient coincidences detract from the overall realism.
Despite its minor flaws, Good Girl, Bad Blood is a solid addition to the series, offering a dark and addictive mystery that will satisfy fans of the genre.
The story follows Pip as she navigates the complexities of another investigation, this time with a more personal connection. The stakes are higher, and the emotional depth added to the narrative makes for a gripping experience. However, some plot points feel slightly rushed, and a few convenient coincidences detract from the overall realism.
Despite its minor flaws, Good Girl, Bad Blood is a solid addition to the series, offering a dark and addictive mystery that will satisfy fans of the genre.
The Games Gods Play by Abigail Owen
adventurous
challenging
mysterious
medium-paced
5.0
A Mythical Masterpiece: 5/5 Stars
Abigail Owen has crafted a captivating world where gods and mortals clash in "The Games Gods Play." This book is a thrilling blend of action, romance, and mythology that had me hooked from the very first page.
The story follows Lyra, a strong and determined heroine who is thrust into a deadly competition orchestrated by the gods. The challenges are both terrifying and exhilarating, and Owen does a fantastic job of bringing them to life with vivid descriptions and heart-pounding suspense.
The romance between Lyra and Hades is a slow-burn that simmers with tension. Their interactions are filled with witty banter and undeniable chemistry, making their connection all the more compelling.
What truly sets this book apart is Owen's unique take on mythology. She weaves together familiar myths and legends with fresh ideas and unexpected twists, creating a world that feels both familiar and entirely new.
"The Games Gods Play" is a must-read for fans of fantasy romance. With its engaging plot, well-developed characters, and steamy romance, it's a book that will stay with you long after you finish reading. I eagerly await the next installment in this fantastic series!
Abigail Owen has crafted a captivating world where gods and mortals clash in "The Games Gods Play." This book is a thrilling blend of action, romance, and mythology that had me hooked from the very first page.
The story follows Lyra, a strong and determined heroine who is thrust into a deadly competition orchestrated by the gods. The challenges are both terrifying and exhilarating, and Owen does a fantastic job of bringing them to life with vivid descriptions and heart-pounding suspense.
The romance between Lyra and Hades is a slow-burn that simmers with tension. Their interactions are filled with witty banter and undeniable chemistry, making their connection all the more compelling.
What truly sets this book apart is Owen's unique take on mythology. She weaves together familiar myths and legends with fresh ideas and unexpected twists, creating a world that feels both familiar and entirely new.
"The Games Gods Play" is a must-read for fans of fantasy romance. With its engaging plot, well-developed characters, and steamy romance, it's a book that will stay with you long after you finish reading. I eagerly await the next installment in this fantastic series!
The Crimson Moth by Kristen Ciccarelli
adventurous
dark
mysterious
medium-paced
4.5
A Captivating Dance of Shadows and Secrets
"The Crimson Moth" weaves a dark and intricate tale of magic, mystery, and forbidden romance. The story follows Rune, a witch with a shadowed past, and Gideon, a determined witch hunter, as their paths collide in a world rife with suspicion and ancient rivalries.
The author masterfully crafts a world that is both enchanting and perilous. The magic system, with its unique concept of blood magic, is fascinating and adds a layer of depth to the narrative. The plot is full of twists and turns, keeping you guessing until the very end.
Rune and Gideon are compelling characters with complex motivations. Their interactions are charged with tension and their reluctant alliance creates a captivating dynamic. The supporting characters are equally well-developed, each with their own secrets and agendas.
While the pacing is generally well-maintained, there are moments where the story could have benefited from a bit more breathing room. Additionally, some readers might find the darker themes and morally grey characters challenging.
Overall, "The Crimson Moth" is a spellbinding debut that will leave you eagerly awaiting the next installment.
It's a must-read for fans of dark fantasy, intricate world-building, and enemies-to-lovers romance.
"The Crimson Moth" weaves a dark and intricate tale of magic, mystery, and forbidden romance. The story follows Rune, a witch with a shadowed past, and Gideon, a determined witch hunter, as their paths collide in a world rife with suspicion and ancient rivalries.
The author masterfully crafts a world that is both enchanting and perilous. The magic system, with its unique concept of blood magic, is fascinating and adds a layer of depth to the narrative. The plot is full of twists and turns, keeping you guessing until the very end.
Rune and Gideon are compelling characters with complex motivations. Their interactions are charged with tension and their reluctant alliance creates a captivating dynamic. The supporting characters are equally well-developed, each with their own secrets and agendas.
While the pacing is generally well-maintained, there are moments where the story could have benefited from a bit more breathing room. Additionally, some readers might find the darker themes and morally grey characters challenging.
Overall, "The Crimson Moth" is a spellbinding debut that will leave you eagerly awaiting the next installment.
It's a must-read for fans of dark fantasy, intricate world-building, and enemies-to-lovers romance.
Songlight: Torch Trilogy #1 by Moira Buffini
adventurous
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
5.0
A Captivating Tale of Music, Magic, and Heartbreak: A Five-Star Review of Songlight
Moira Buffini's Songlight weaves a compelling story around the power of music, exploring themes of family, loss, and the enduring strength of the human spirit. The story follows several interconnected characters whose lives are connected through this power of songlight that only a few people are born with. Each character's journey is intricately linked to the enchanting power of Songlight.
I absolutely adored Songlight and was completely hooked from the very first page. Buffini has crafted a truly captivating narrative that resonated with me on a deep emotional level. One of the things I often struggle with in books is when there are multiple points of view. I sometimes find it difficult to keep track of who's who and where they are in the story. However, in Songlight, this was absolutely not the case. Buffini seamlessly transitions between the different perspectives, making it incredibly easy to follow along. Each character's voice is distinct and compelling, and I found myself becoming deeply invested in their individual stories.
What truly elevated this book for me was the way Buffini developed her characters. I genuinely fell in love with each and every one of them. They felt real, flawed, and utterly human. Their struggles, their triumphs, and their relationships with each other felt authentic and deeply moving. The emotional depth of the story, combined with the beautifully written prose, made for an unforgettable reading experience. Songlight is a book that will stay with me for a long time, and I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone who enjoys stories that are both magical and deeply human. Five stars without a doubt!
Moira Buffini's Songlight weaves a compelling story around the power of music, exploring themes of family, loss, and the enduring strength of the human spirit. The story follows several interconnected characters whose lives are connected through this power of songlight that only a few people are born with. Each character's journey is intricately linked to the enchanting power of Songlight.
I absolutely adored Songlight and was completely hooked from the very first page. Buffini has crafted a truly captivating narrative that resonated with me on a deep emotional level. One of the things I often struggle with in books is when there are multiple points of view. I sometimes find it difficult to keep track of who's who and where they are in the story. However, in Songlight, this was absolutely not the case. Buffini seamlessly transitions between the different perspectives, making it incredibly easy to follow along. Each character's voice is distinct and compelling, and I found myself becoming deeply invested in their individual stories.
What truly elevated this book for me was the way Buffini developed her characters. I genuinely fell in love with each and every one of them. They felt real, flawed, and utterly human. Their struggles, their triumphs, and their relationships with each other felt authentic and deeply moving. The emotional depth of the story, combined with the beautifully written prose, made for an unforgettable reading experience. Songlight is a book that will stay with me for a long time, and I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone who enjoys stories that are both magical and deeply human. Five stars without a doubt!