busyreadingbrb's reviews
941 reviews

When Women Were Dragons by Kelly Barnhill

4.0

This was a feminist coming of age story that focuses on inner transformation and acceptance of your true self. I loved the message and heart of the book and what this story, and more specifically dragoning, represents. I found the pacing to be off in the middle and wish that we had a more even balance of recounts of Alex's life from childhood vs adulthood. The ending seemed rushed to me but overall I enjoyed it and took a lot away from it to think about.

Nine Lives by Peter Swanson

4.0

A quick, easy listen! I finished this in one day. I loved the nod to Agatha Christie's And Then There Were None, it was a favorite of mine growing up. If you haven't read that and are wanting to, definitely read it first before you read this or it will be spoiled.

Yellowface by R.F. Kuang

4.0

I loved this. Humorous, thought provoking... and she nailed the internet troll era. The ending let me down a bit... I wanted to see the MC crash and burn fully *but* I get why she ended it the way she did and appreciate it.

The Spellshop by Sarah Beth Durst

5.0

Can I give this infinity stars?!?! This is my top read of 2024. SO COZY, SO WHOLESOME and exactly what I needed for a fall read during a stressful election year. This book feels like a warm hug. A TALKING PLANT, winged cats, and merhorses - basically my entire personality in one book. The writing is beautiful. READ THIS BOOK!!

Somewhere Beyond the Sea by TJ Klune

5.0

“When we live in fear, it controls us. Every decision we make is smothered by it.”

TJ Klune can do no wrong. Daniel Henning did a PHENOMENAL job with the audio. Travis and I listened to this together while traveling and we were both laughing out loud at parts. The theme for this one is heavy and political and if that's not your vibe, this one won't be for you. But...everyone should read this. :)

Cackle by Rachel Harrison

4.0

I loved this. Such a fun read for spooky season!!

The God of the Woods by Liz Moore

4.0

4 stars for now - I did the audio and I really want to go back and read the physical copy!! I really enjoyed it - the character work was SO GOOD but still fast paced. It was hard to keep up with on audio especially at the beginning and I did have to rewind quite a few times until I figured out the characters/storylines. Adding back to my TBR for a re-read next year!

The House in the Cerulean Sea by TJ Klune

5.0

I'm officially obsessed with TJ Klune. Absolutely loved the audio.

Archer's Voice by Mia Sheridan

2.0

I wish I would have dnf'd. This story, specifically the trope, is not for me. I did the audio and still barely made it through.

Christmas Presents by Lisa Unger

4.0

3.5 stars - a quick read and pretty good thriller for the holiday season.