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bookmaniac_60's reviews
44 reviews
I Do Not Come to You by Chance by Adaobi Tricia Nwaubani
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
3.0
QUOTE
"He explained that without education, man is as though in a closed room; with education, he finds himself in a room with all its windows open toward the outside world. He said that education makes a man a right thinker; it tells him how to make decisions. He said that finishing school and finishing well was an asset that opened up a thousand more opportunities for people".
MY THOUGHTS
The book had potentials, but unfortunately it fell short for me. The book felt dragged out, with unnecessary descriptions of certain scenes that didn't add much to the story. I found myself skimming through some parts, eager to get to the point.
However, I must say that the book did have its moments. It made me laugh out loud at times, and I appreciated the abundance of parables, proverbs, and quotes scattered throughout. These added a layer of depth and wisdom to the narrative.
The ending wasn't what I expected, and not in a good way. It felt rushed and didn't tie up loose ends satisfactorily. I was left wondering what the moral of the story was supposed to besince no one suffered the repercussions. The book explored themes of fraud, relationships, and redemption, but the message got lost in the meandering narrative.
Despite the talented writing, the pacing and plot development needed more attention. As it stands, it was just an okay read for me.
"He explained that without education, man is as though in a closed room; with education, he finds himself in a room with all its windows open toward the outside world. He said that education makes a man a right thinker; it tells him how to make decisions. He said that finishing school and finishing well was an asset that opened up a thousand more opportunities for people".
MY THOUGHTS
The book had potentials, but unfortunately it fell short for me. The book felt dragged out, with unnecessary descriptions of certain scenes that didn't add much to the story. I found myself skimming through some parts, eager to get to the point.
However, I must say that the book did have its moments. It made me laugh out loud at times, and I appreciated the abundance of parables, proverbs, and quotes scattered throughout. These added a layer of depth and wisdom to the narrative.
The ending wasn't what I expected, and not in a good way. It felt rushed and didn't tie up loose ends satisfactorily. I was left wondering what the moral of the story was supposed to besince no one suffered the repercussions. The book explored themes of fraud, relationships, and redemption, but the message got lost in the meandering narrative.
Despite the talented writing, the pacing and plot development needed more attention. As it stands, it was just an okay read for me.
Just before I do by Amaka Azie
challenging
emotional
inspiring
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
5.0
βI now understand what true love means, that it has nothing to do with whatβs outside,Love comes from right here. From inside out. And I learnt that because of you.β
Just Before I Do" by Amaka Azie is a captivating and heartfelt novel that beautifully captures the complexities of love, commitment, and self-discovery. the story follows the journey of Anuli and Etim as they navigates the turbulent waters of romance and the hurdle before their marriage.
Just 10 days to their marriage after 2 years of dating Etim, Anuli kept questioning herself if marrying him was the right choice, which led to a meltdown and scared of having to go through what had happened on her wedding day with her ex finance jidenna. This led to their relationship having a bit of a crack and made left Etim with a low self esteem, thinking he isn't suited for anuli.
Amaka azie outdid herself with this one, oh my heart was just jumping with excitement. The story was so beautifully written, it was fast paced with a bit of self doubt, romance and love. I know the story of Etim and Anuli is over.....but I still need more.
Their love story was just so beautiful. I also love how you showed a glimpse of iriah and udoka's marriage life and I can't wait for their story.
Just Before I Do" by Amaka Azie is a captivating and heartfelt novel that beautifully captures the complexities of love, commitment, and self-discovery. the story follows the journey of Anuli and Etim as they navigates the turbulent waters of romance and the hurdle before their marriage.
Just 10 days to their marriage after 2 years of dating Etim, Anuli kept questioning herself if marrying him was the right choice, which led to a meltdown and scared of having to go through what had happened on her wedding day with her ex finance jidenna. This led to their relationship having a bit of a crack and made left Etim with a low self esteem, thinking he isn't suited for anuli.
Amaka azie outdid herself with this one, oh my heart was just jumping with excitement. The story was so beautifully written, it was fast paced with a bit of self doubt, romance and love. I know the story of Etim and Anuli is over.....but I still need more.
Their love story was just so beautiful. I also love how you showed a glimpse of iriah and udoka's marriage life and I can't wait for their story.
Dear Ijeawele, or A Feminist Manifesto in Fifteen Suggestions by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
informative
inspiring
reflective
fast-paced
4.0
"Dear Ijeawele, or a Feminist Manifesto in Fifteen Suggestions" by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie is a remarkable book that offers a compelling and insightful exploration of feminism, motherhood, and identity. Adichie's writing is, as always, eloquent and engaging, making this manifesto a pleasure to read.
The book is structured as a series of letters to the author's friend, Ijeawele, offering guidance on how to raise her daughter as a feminist. The fifteen suggestions are both practical and philosophical, covering topics such as gender roles, sexuality, and social expectations. Adichie's advice is infused with her signature blend of wit, wisdom, and compassion.
One of the book's greatest strengths is its ability to tackle complex issues with clarity and nuance. Adichie confronts the challenges of modern feminism head-on, from the perils of gendered expectations to the importance of inclusive language. Her arguments are persuasive and well-supported, making this book an excellent resource for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of feminist thought.
This book is perfect for readers interested in feminism, gender studies, and social justice. While it's aimed at new mothers, its insights and suggestions are valuable for anyone looking to challenge gender norms and promote inclusivity.
The book is structured as a series of letters to the author's friend, Ijeawele, offering guidance on how to raise her daughter as a feminist. The fifteen suggestions are both practical and philosophical, covering topics such as gender roles, sexuality, and social expectations. Adichie's advice is infused with her signature blend of wit, wisdom, and compassion.
One of the book's greatest strengths is its ability to tackle complex issues with clarity and nuance. Adichie confronts the challenges of modern feminism head-on, from the perils of gendered expectations to the importance of inclusive language. Her arguments are persuasive and well-supported, making this book an excellent resource for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of feminist thought.
This book is perfect for readers interested in feminism, gender studies, and social justice. While it's aimed at new mothers, its insights and suggestions are valuable for anyone looking to challenge gender norms and promote inclusivity.
Wicked Spicy Tales by Ruan Willow
dark
fast-paced
4.0
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This collection of four short stories by Ruan Willow is a departure from her typical works, delving into the realms of erotic paranormal magic and horror. The tales are indeed wicked and spicy, with a focus on the darker side of human desires. While I appreciated the bold exploration of themes, there were moments where the execution fell short.
The stories are well-crafted, with vivid descriptions and engaging characters. The Sex Wizards Halloween Party Orgy and Pleasured by Satan were my favorites, as they effectively balanced eroticism with a sense of unease and tension,but pleasured by satan did contain public shaming and sexual assault. The Genie's Wish and Boobs and Pizza Everywhere but not a Drop to Eat, however, felt slightly disjointed and lacked the cohesion of the other two tales.
One of the strengths of this collection is its unapologetic embrace of sexuality and desire. The author tackles themes of pleasure, and the complexities of human connection with a refreshing honesty. However, some scenes felt overly explicit, bordering on gratuitous, which detracted from the overall narrative.
While it may not be perfect, it's a bold and intriguing exploration of human desire and the unknown. With some refinement, Ruan Willow's unique voice and style could truly shine in this genre.
Recommendation: For fans of erotic paranormal fiction and horror, particularly those who enjoy authors like Anne Rice and Clive Barker. However, be prepared for explicit content and a focus on the darker aspects of human nature
This collection of four short stories by Ruan Willow is a departure from her typical works, delving into the realms of erotic paranormal magic and horror. The tales are indeed wicked and spicy, with a focus on the darker side of human desires. While I appreciated the bold exploration of themes, there were moments where the execution fell short.
The stories are well-crafted, with vivid descriptions and engaging characters. The Sex Wizards Halloween Party Orgy and Pleasured by Satan were my favorites, as they effectively balanced eroticism with a sense of unease and tension,but pleasured by satan did contain public shaming and sexual assault. The Genie's Wish and Boobs and Pizza Everywhere but not a Drop to Eat, however, felt slightly disjointed and lacked the cohesion of the other two tales.
One of the strengths of this collection is its unapologetic embrace of sexuality and desire. The author tackles themes of pleasure, and the complexities of human connection with a refreshing honesty. However, some scenes felt overly explicit, bordering on gratuitous, which detracted from the overall narrative.
While it may not be perfect, it's a bold and intriguing exploration of human desire and the unknown. With some refinement, Ruan Willow's unique voice and style could truly shine in this genre.
Recommendation: For fans of erotic paranormal fiction and horror, particularly those who enjoy authors like Anne Rice and Clive Barker. However, be prepared for explicit content and a focus on the darker aspects of human nature
Love's Direction by IyanuOluwa Olorode
challenging
dark
emotional
hopeful
lighthearted
reflective
sad
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
5.0
Thanks to iyanuoluwa olorode for the ARC copy. I voluntarily read and received an ARC copy, all thoughts and option are my own.
This was my first time reading a Christian themed novel and thankfully it didn't disappoint, before I started this book I saw the warning which contained (Rape, forgiveness, born again, friendship, betrayal, reunion,teenage romance, redemption, drama, hatred, trauma). The book was fast paced, the writing style and the use of Nigerian slangs in the book made it feel as though I was a part of the story.
The book felt me with mixed emotions and the characters really got on my nerves, everyone of them went through pain but the characters who became born again infuriated me with their actions.
Derin acted as though Julia was the one who made him who he was before he found Christ and treated her as though she was a slut.
Douye treated Julia's mother as if she was the one who convinced him to marry her,but decided to treat her like trash because he found Christ.
Regina cut all ties with Julia and treated her as though she was a temptation because she found Christ.
Julia went through so much at a young age, yes she did do wrong but the people whom she thought she could rely on tossed her aside. I was happy when she found someone who listened to her and made her decided to be born again and bring herself to forgive everyone and also ask to be forgiven.
This book shouldn't have made me cry but it did, I enjoyed it so much i can't wait for book2.
HAPPY PUBLICATION and I highly recommend this book
This was my first time reading a Christian themed novel and thankfully it didn't disappoint, before I started this book I saw the warning which contained (Rape, forgiveness, born again, friendship, betrayal, reunion,teenage romance, redemption, drama, hatred, trauma). The book was fast paced, the writing style and the use of Nigerian slangs in the book made it feel as though I was a part of the story.
The book felt me with mixed emotions and the characters really got on my nerves, everyone of them went through pain but the characters who became born again infuriated me with their actions.
Derin acted as though Julia was the one who made him who he was before he found Christ and treated her as though she was a slut.
Douye treated Julia's mother as if she was the one who convinced him to marry her,but decided to treat her like trash because he found Christ.
Regina cut all ties with Julia and treated her as though she was a temptation because she found Christ.
Julia went through so much at a young age, yes she did do wrong but the people whom she thought she could rely on tossed her aside. I was happy when she found someone who listened to her and made her decided to be born again and bring herself to forgive everyone and also ask to be forgiven.
This book shouldn't have made me cry but it did, I enjoyed it so much i can't wait for book2.
HAPPY PUBLICATION and I highly recommend this book
Content Warnings
Moderate: Adult/minor relationship, Pregnancy, Emotional abuse, and Rape
The Family Upstairs by Lisa Jewell
slow-paced
3.0
I had high hopes for this book, I'd first picked it up on January (buddy read) but I had to DNF because the switch between the timeline and pov's was freaking confusing,I kept going back an forth in the book just to be sure I wasn't missing out on what I was reading. Later picked it up again this month because it was a bookclub read and everyone who's recommended it says it's good π« π« π« . but I'll be damned, reading slump had me on a chokehold π¬π¬.
MY THOUGHTS
For a thriller the story started extremely slow,even 40 chapters in I still haven't gotten the thrill. But it did makeup with It's short chapters, the story was told from 3 Pov's of which my favourite was Henry's.
So many messed up things happened in the house. what I hated more was what happened to Lucy, Henry on the other hand was a messed up child. I don't want to dive in because I'm definitely gonna spill the beans.
Would I read THE FAMILY REMAINS maybe π€,would I read more of Lisa Jewell book still maybe π€.
All that work and what did it get me ππ, why did I push through and not Dnfπ©π©
MY THOUGHTS
For a thriller the story started extremely slow,even 40 chapters in I still haven't gotten the thrill. But it did makeup with It's short chapters, the story was told from 3 Pov's of which my favourite was Henry's.
So many messed up things happened in the house. what I hated more was what happened to Lucy, Henry on the other hand was a messed up child. I don't want to dive in because I'm definitely gonna spill the beans.
Would I read THE FAMILY REMAINS maybe π€,would I read more of Lisa Jewell book still maybe π€.
All that work and what did it get me ππ, why did I push through and not Dnfπ©π©
Funny Little Games by Jack Harding
dark
fast-paced
3.0
"HELL IS EMPTY, FOR ALL THE DEVILS ARE HERE".
This started off a bit confusing and somewhat like a rhyme, but I must say this was really good. The story felt as though I was reading about Jack the ripper and boy did it make my skin crawl.
This started off a bit confusing and somewhat like a rhyme, but I must say this was really good. The story felt as though I was reading about Jack the ripper and boy did it make my skin crawl.
Tooth Worms by Lor Gislason
2.0
This is the most shortest story I've read. for a title like that I'd expected to be grossed out, but it was just meh