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daniela_is_reading's reviews
195 reviews
The Secret History by Donna Tartt
challenging
dark
mysterious
3.25
'The Secret History' is well written, polished and smart, but unfortunately I didn't love it. All the characters were disturbed and extremely unlikable, which I guess is not always a terrible thing in a novel but, in this instance it didn't work for me.
I curiously read on as I wanted to learn of the character's fate following some decisions and actions they made prior and after the death of a friend. But, the more I continued to read, the more I found myself not really caring anymore about any of them or what actually happened.
'The Secret History' is a bestseller and has some amazing reviews, maybe it just wasn't for me. Still happy I read it and can see how this dark academia novel will appeal to many.
I curiously read on as I wanted to learn of the character's fate following some decisions and actions they made prior and after the death of a friend. But, the more I continued to read, the more I found myself not really caring anymore about any of them or what actually happened.
'The Secret History' is a bestseller and has some amazing reviews, maybe it just wasn't for me. Still happy I read it and can see how this dark academia novel will appeal to many.
The Good Teacher by Petronella McGovern
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
3.0
At the Foot of the Cherry Tree by Alli Parker
emotional
hopeful
informative
inspiring
sad
5.0
At the foot of the Cherry Tree is inspired by the author's grandparents, Gordon Parker and Nobuko (Cherry) Sukutamoto / Parker.
Nobuko is only 15 when Hiroshima is bombed. Nobuko miraculously survives. Many others around her don't.
Following the annihilation of Hiroshima, Nobuko tries to find her way again, to survive. Not just for herself, but for the family members she has left. The people she loves and that she is now living for.
This is when she meets Gordon, an Australian soldier. Their connection is instantaneous and a sweet honest love begins. But, it's also a dangerous kind, as fraternising between the Japanese and Australians is not allowed in the aftermaths of WWII.
This is a memorable powerful story of a beautiful couple and how Nobuko comes to be one of Australia's first war brides. A story of overcoming the impossible with a heavy dose of hope, love and a mighty good fight for what is right.
I really love this book and would recommend it to anyone who enjoys historical fiction war novels with an amazing love story ❤️ 🍒.
Nobuko is only 15 when Hiroshima is bombed. Nobuko miraculously survives. Many others around her don't.
Following the annihilation of Hiroshima, Nobuko tries to find her way again, to survive. Not just for herself, but for the family members she has left. The people she loves and that she is now living for.
This is when she meets Gordon, an Australian soldier. Their connection is instantaneous and a sweet honest love begins. But, it's also a dangerous kind, as fraternising between the Japanese and Australians is not allowed in the aftermaths of WWII.
This is a memorable powerful story of a beautiful couple and how Nobuko comes to be one of Australia's first war brides. A story of overcoming the impossible with a heavy dose of hope, love and a mighty good fight for what is right.
I really love this book and would recommend it to anyone who enjoys historical fiction war novels with an amazing love story ❤️ 🍒.
Twenty-Seven Minutes: An Astonishing Crime Thriller Debut from a Brilliant New Voice in Literary Suspense by Ashley Tate
mysterious
tense
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
3.5
The Other Side of Beautiful by Kim Lock
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
5.0
The other side of beautiful was in fact beautiful and a refreshing read.
Mercy hasn't left her home in 2 years, but when it burns down she has no choice but to face her fears and the world again. What better way to do so than purchasing a beat up campervan on a whim and escaping on a road trip in the Australian outback.
As Mercy embarks on her somewhat forced upon journey, we witness her overcoming the many crippling aspects of her anxiety. Not to mention also growing to love the many beautiful people that cross her path.
Andy couldn't be anymore lovely. He has the right amount of patience, understanding, and calmness, with a nice pair of strong arms 💪 😀. Their blossoming friendship and genuine fondness for each other is so wholesome, as is this book.
I really enjoyed and found myself there with Mercy on this one. It also makes me want to go and experience another road trip. Loved it.
Mercy hasn't left her home in 2 years, but when it burns down she has no choice but to face her fears and the world again. What better way to do so than purchasing a beat up campervan on a whim and escaping on a road trip in the Australian outback.
As Mercy embarks on her somewhat forced upon journey, we witness her overcoming the many crippling aspects of her anxiety. Not to mention also growing to love the many beautiful people that cross her path.
Andy couldn't be anymore lovely. He has the right amount of patience, understanding, and calmness, with a nice pair of strong arms 💪 😀. Their blossoming friendship and genuine fondness for each other is so wholesome, as is this book.
I really enjoyed and found myself there with Mercy on this one. It also makes me want to go and experience another road trip. Loved it.
The Naturalist of Amsterdam by Melissa Ashley
Did not finish book. Stopped at 45%.
Did not finish book. Stopped at 45%.
Started off strong, and then just went nowhere and I lost focus. Shame, as it really did grab my attention and interest in the beginning.