davinareads's reviews
844 reviews

Games Untold by Jennifer Lynn Barnes

funny lighthearted medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? N/A
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.0

Did this book need to be written? Honestly, probably not. Did I still enjoy every bit of it? Absolutely!

Games Untold is a delightful collection of short stories featuring our favorite characters from The Inheritance Games series. If you’ve ever wanted a glimpse into the lives of the Hawthornes and their friends beyond the main plot, this is the book for you. While the high-stakes puzzles and intrigue are still present, the stories offer a lighter, more "mundane" take on their world—though let’s be real, nothing about the Hawthornes is truly mundane.

I couldn’t help but smile through a good chunk of this book. Jennifer Lynn Barnes does it again, weaving connections that remind you why these characters and their dynamics are so beloved. It’s a fun, breezy read that’s perfect for fans who simply can’t get enough of the series.

That said, the longest story—focusing on Hannah (the same backwards as forward) and Toby—felt repetitive and a bit unnecessary. It slowed the pace compared to the rest of the collection, which otherwise felt sharp and engaging.

Overall, Games Untold is the kind of book that doesn’t need to exist but still manages to make you glad it does. It’s a treat for fans who want more time with these characters and don’t mind trading some of the high-stakes drama for lighthearted, feel-good moments.

Songs for the Brokenhearted by Ayelet Tsabari

emotional informative medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

3.5

One of the most fascinating aspects of Songs for the Brokenhearted is how it immerses you in the vibrant culture of Yemeni Jews and Yemeni Israelis. From the rich descriptions of food and daily life to the deeply emotional storytelling, this book is both an educational journey and a heartfelt narrative.

The main character kept me on my toes throughout the story. At times, I wasn’t sure whether I liked or disliked her, but by the end, her tremendous character growth left a lasting impression. Watching her evolve felt both realistic and rewarding.

The cultural depth is a highlight of this book. While I found myself getting a bit lost in the historical details and the "who’s who" at times (likely because I’m not very familiar with this history), the richness of the setting and traditions more than made up for it. It’s a beautifully crafted portrait of a community that deserves to be explored.

That said, the pacing felt uneven in some sections, and there was a slight repetitiveness that slowed the momentum. However, the strong emotional undertones and the powerful themes kept me engaged throughout.

Overall, Songs for the Brokenhearted is a story that combines history, emotion, and character growth in a meaningful way. While it might resonate best with readers who enjoy exploring lesser-known histories or deeply cultural narratives, I think there’s something here for everyone—whether it’s the rich setting, the emotional depth, or the journey of self-discovery.

She Waits for You Beyond the Dark by Kristen Simmons

adventurous dark funny medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.0

Here’s a draft for your review:


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She Waits for You Beyond the Dark by Kristen Simmons is a thrilling conclusion to the duology that began with Find Him Where You Left Him Dead, and I’m happy to say it left me feeling completely satisfied.

This second installment had much better pacing than the first, which made it even more enjoyable to read. The continuation of Japanese folklore was just as compelling, and the gruesome, chilling descriptions really brought the story to life. I especially loved how the characters felt so complex—some walked the line between good and bad, creating fascinating dynamics that kept me hooked. And the ending? It delivered exactly what I was hoping for. I’m always a sucker for a well-done ending, and this one hit the mark perfectly.

While I devoured the book and loved so much about it, there were a few parts that I felt could have been written or described a bit better. Nothing major, but it stood out enough to make me pause here and there.

Overall, She Waits for You Beyond the Dark is an intense, satisfying conclusion that ties up the duology beautifully. If you enjoyed the first book, you’ll love where this one takes you.

Find Him Where You Left Him Dead by Kristen Simmons

adventurous dark fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

3.5

Find Him Where You Left Him Dead by Kristen Simmons is like Jumanji with a Japanese twist—a horror-filled adventure that hooks you right from the start.

The story throws you straight into the action, which I really appreciated. It wastes no time getting to the good stuff, and the mix of horror and Japanese folklore made for an intriguing and unique experience. I loved how the folklore elements were woven into the plot, with detailed explanations that made the world feel rich and authentic. Despite the fast pace, the characters were surprisingly well-developed, which is impressive given how much is happening. I’m definitely curious to see where this series goes next.

That said, the book wasn’t without its challenges. At times, the action was so fast-paced that I felt like I needed a breather to absorb everything. The multiple points of view, while ambitious, often left me confused about who was narrating at any given moment. I think the story would’ve been stronger with either fewer POVs or a bit more clarity in transitions.

Overall, Find Him Where You Left Him Dead is an exciting, fast-paced read that brings something fresh to the YA horror-adventure genre. If you’re into folklore and don’t mind a bit of chaos, it’s worth checking out.

The Tournament of Heirs by Amilea Perez

slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

2.0

One of the first things that caught my eye about this book was the incredible effort the author put into her PR boxes and artwork. They’re some of the most beautiful promotional materials I’ve seen, and they reflect the love and care she has for her story. It’s something to be proud of!

Aside from the stunning artwork and bookish goodies, let's talk about the story. This is where my opinion might differ from the majority.

The Tournament of Heirs is labeled as a New Adult Fantasy and marketed as The Hunger Games meets Aztec culture—essentially a dystopian tale with a cultural twist. Personally, I found the story closer to All of Us Villains than The Hunger Games, which might be a better comparison.

As a dystopian novel, it follows a storyline that will feel familiar to many readers, especially those who have read a few books in the genre. While the inclusion of Aztec culture added a unique and intriguing layer, I felt the story struggled to offer something truly fresh or unexpected.

At over 500 pages, the book felt longer than necessary. Some sections were repetitive and overexplained, which slowed the pacing and made it harder to stay fully engaged. With 63% of the book serving as an introduction, the buildup felt too drawn out. Although there were many events, they didn’t always feel like they moved the story forward meaningfully. Additionally, I would have loved more vivid descriptions in certain areas to enhance the setting.

That said, the cultural aspect was wonderful. I loved being immersed in the Aztec-inspired setting—it was vibrant and rich, though I wished for even more depth. The mythology was one of the most fascinating parts of the book and made for an engaging learning experience. I also really enjoyed the dynamics between the siblings, which stood out as one of the strongest elements of the story.

Overall, I think this book might resonate more with readers who are newer to the dystopian genre or those who enjoy a slower, more detailed narrative. Even if it wasn’t entirely for me, I admire how the author brought Aztec mythology to life and portrayed the sibling dynamics so well. All of this could make it a worthwhile read for the right audience.

The Bright Sword by Lev Grossman

adventurous emotional funny medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.0

What if the unsung nobodies of Arthurian legend stepped into the spotlight? That’s the question The Bright Sword sets out to answer, delivering an adventure filled with daring quests, rich backstories, and a fresh take on a familiar world.

Right off the bat, I was pleasantly surprised by the diversity in this book. When I picture King Arthur’s time, it doesn’t exactly bring to mind a cast of characters as varied as this one. It was refreshing to see representation that felt thoughtful and purposeful, adding new dimensions to the story.

The structure of the narrative was another highlight for me. At its core, this is a straightforward adventure — one main storyline pulls you along, but the way the characters’ backstories are woven in keeps things lively and layered. It’s one of those books where you get to feel deeply connected to the cast, whether they’re center stage or playing a smaller role. Fans of King Arthur lore are in for a treat, as The Bright Sword pays homage to its roots while carving out a story all its own.

That said, the ending felt dragged out. It seemed unsure how to wrap things up, which made the conclusion feel drawn out. And while the multiple backstories were mostly a strength, a few felt unnecessary and didn’t really add to the overall experience.

Despite these minor things, this was a fast-paced, fun, and adventurous read that I’d recommend to anyone who loves tales of knights, quests, and discovering greatness in unexpected places. If you’re ready for a fresh take on Arthurian legend, The Bright Sword won’t disappoint.

Yellow Birds: A Novel by Karen Green, Karen Green

adventurous emotional slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.5

Yellow Birds is a bohemian love story about self-discovery and found family, with a unique, almost dreamlike vibe. A groupie love story wasn’t exactly on my reading bingo card this year, but I found myself drawn in by the free-spirited world Karen Green created.

One of the things I loved about this book was the immersive setting. I’m not sure if "culture" is the right word, but the story has a distinct  setting —a world that feels like an endless summer party for outcasts and misfits. The level of detail and vivid descriptions made me feel like I was right there, experiencing this scene with the characters. It’s a story about identity, belonging, and finding family in unexpected places. The ending tied everything together nicely and was a highlight of the book for me.

However, the character growth felt a bit off. Kait, the main character, does evolve, but it’s almost like her growth is pushed by outside forces rather than coming from within. It left me wishing for a bit more self-driven change instead of the constant need to be saved. I also found it hard to connect with Kait, especially when she seemed to hold herself above others and set a level for what she considered to be an authentic experience.

Overall, Yellow Birds was a fascinating read that felt like stepping into a different world. It’s perfect for readers who enjoy stories about found family, identity, and the messy side of self-discovery.

Small Worlds by Caleb Azumah Nelson

emotional reflective medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

Small Worlds is a beautifully written story about the joy of living in your own space, discovering your passions, love, and personal history. It captures the simple pleasure of just existing in your own "small world," and I absolutely loved it.

One of the standout elements for me was the masterful use of repetition. It wasn’t overdone—it was impactful and purposeful, showing just how effective repetition can be when used right. The writing itself is lyrical and flows with its own rhythm, almost like a spiritual experience, just as the book says.

Emotionally, it takes you through a range—happiness, sadness, and even anger. The characters were wonderfully drawn, and the plot, while simple, was executed with such depth and grace. It’s a book that doesn’t need flashy twists to make an impact; its strength is in how it makes you feel.

Overall, Small Worlds is a 5-star contemporary read for me, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a moving, beautifully crafted story.

The Dark King Swallows the World by Robert G. Penner

adventurous dark slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

2.0

The Dark King Swallows the World follows Nora, an American girl living in World War II-era Cornwall. After the tragic death of her younger half-brother in a car accident, Nora’s grief-stricken mother becomes involved with Olaf Winter, a mysterious man Nora believes is to blame for the accident. Determined to win back her mother’s love and undo the damage caused by Winter, Nora embarks on a fantastical journey into a world filled with faeries, giants, and the land of the dead, where she must confront the dark king himself. However, it takes quite some time for the main story to unfold.

While the premise is rich with potential, I found the execution didn’t fully deliver. For a story set during a global war, the characters seem surprisingly untouched by the chaos around them, and the plot could have easily occurred in a different time period. This lack of impact from the war left the setting feeling underdeveloped. Additionally, the writing style felt disjointed, with scenes reading like brief clips that didn’t always flow well together. I also struggled with the pacing, as much of the book felt long and repetitive, making it difficult to stay engaged at times.

Nora’s age was another element that didn’t quite work for me. Although she’s written as a 12-year-old, her dialogue and actions often felt far too mature, which created a disconnect in her character. Moreover, while the story hints at magical elements and adventure, these moments felt overshadowed by unnecessary information, leaving me wanting more from the fantasy elements the synopsis promised.

That said, there are bright spots. The last 100 pages finally bring the action and story to life, with the pace picking up and the plot feeling more cohesive. There are also glimmers of brilliance scattered throughout—small, imaginative ideas and scenes that I found truly captivating. I only wish the book had focused more on these elements.

Though The Dark King Swallows the World didn’t fully resonate with me, it’s still a unique story that may appeal to readers who enjoy a slow-burn narrative with character-driven tension. While it wasn’t for me, I’d encourage others to give it a try and see if it offers a different reading experience for them.

You Know What You Did by K.T. Nguyen

dark slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

You Know What You Did is a thriller that offers strong writing, but the plot falls on the milder side. While it didn't deliver the intensity I usually crave in a thriller, there were still plenty of reasons to keep turning the pages.

One thing I really appreciated was the dynamic between Annie and her mother. It felt real and layered, which added depth to the story. From fleeing Vietnam and starting with nothing in the US, her mother's actions made sense and the effect they had on Annie was captured effectively. Although the plot wasn't a heart-pounding rollercoaster, I devoured the book in less than a day—it was just that easy to read. And the unexpected moments of gore? They were so well done, I physically squirmed. That said, if you're sensitive to certain triggers, be prepared because some scenes definitely go there.

As for Annie, she’s the kind of character that takes a while to warm up to. I’m never a fan when the main character starts out so unlikable, but by the end, she grew on me. My biggest frustration, though, was how disconnected Annie’s daughter seemed from their cultural roots. I get that this was part of her character arc, but the way she came off so aggressively ungrateful made her hard to root for. It felt like her westernization was overplayed, which left me wanting more balance.

The pacing also could've been tighter. At times, I felt like the book dragged, especially with some repetitive sections that didn’t add much. A bit of trimming could have made the story leaner and sharper, without losing any of its impact. The jumping between timelines—past, present, and future—was interesting in theory, but in practice, it felt disorienting. I had to recalibrate more often than I wanted, which pulled me out of the flow.

In short, You Know What You Did may not have delivered the high-stakes thriller I was hoping for, but it's still a solid read if you're in the mood for something with well-developed relationships and some dark, squirm-inducing moments.