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callum_mclaughlin's reviews
819 reviews
The Reviled by Cynthia A. Morgan
5.0
In many ways a traditional story of good versus evil, this fantasy book reads like a dark fairy tale, with the author's poetic flair shining through clearly.
The world was interesting, the characters likable and the story whimsical, making for a fast, charming read.
The world was interesting, the characters likable and the story whimsical, making for a fast, charming read.
The Classic Tradition of Haiku: An Anthology by Faubion Bowers
4.0
It's been said by some of the greats that Japanese haiku are so specific in their structure and use of language that no translation could do them full justice, since verbatim translations are near impossible (this is why some poems in this anthology actually have multiple versions presented, as different translators made different interpretations, which was interesting to see).
While I agree to an extent, it was nice nonetheless to see at least a glimpse of the masters of the form at work.
While I agree to an extent, it was nice nonetheless to see at least a glimpse of the masters of the form at work.
Changing Worlds by Gina Briganti, Melissa Barker-Simpson
5.0
Changing Worlds gave me a brief and enjoyable glimpse into two different series that I'm now eager to explore more of.
Gina Briganti's offering was whimsical and romantic, whilst Melissa Barker-Simpson's was exciting and richly brought to life. Both had a unique and likable heroine at the helm which also served them well.
Each writer's style and voice is distinct from the other but the fantastical quality of both tales means this unexpected combo of short novellas works excellently as a great value package deal.
Gina Briganti's offering was whimsical and romantic, whilst Melissa Barker-Simpson's was exciting and richly brought to life. Both had a unique and likable heroine at the helm which also served them well.
Each writer's style and voice is distinct from the other but the fantastical quality of both tales means this unexpected combo of short novellas works excellently as a great value package deal.
American Born Chinese by Gene Luen Yang
4.0
The art style was a little more 'cartoonish' than I normally gravitate towards but I liked how the three stories weaved together at the end with a simple but worthwhile message about self-acceptance.