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deannareadsandsleeps's reviews
619 reviews
Little Rot by Akwaeke Emezi
dark
reflective
tense
fast-paced
3.75
Content Warnings
Graphic: Pedophilia, Physical abuse, Rape, and Murder
Emezi’s writing, as usual, is spectacular. The content was horrifying, as expected, but I could handle it, and I was locked in the whole way through. Where it fell short for me was the inconsistency of Ahmed’s character, the speed-running important backstory, and the rushed way it all came together. I understand that a breakdown was possible, but the way he was presented, it was still…not in line with him imo. I was disappointed. I wanted him darker.
Now I definitely loved the exploration of the shadows of society, the complications of sex work, both in the experiences and perceptions, and how salvation for you might not mean the same to someone else, no matter the morality or lack of. Survival can make monsters of us all.
I suspected the conclusion, which, fine I guess, and was okay with the fact that none of these characters were particularly likable, because, again, it’s a cold world, but I believe what the novel could have benefit most from was a little more time. 30-40 more pages even.
Overall, I still enjoyed it, and still recommend it for the wild ride it was for those who can handle the very dark content.
A Little Kissing Between Friends by Chencia C. Higgins
emotional
funny
lighthearted
3.75
This was cute and hot and fun, and I really enjoy Higgins’ voice. Some of those lines were outright hilarious, like Cyn’s inability to not be horrified by that girl’s laugh, and Jucee saying, “It was amazing how a little motorboating could lift your spirits,” LMAOOOO WHAT!
But the poor communication/miscommunication was…oof!!!! I am very impatient and have VERY low tolerance for miscommunication, so Cyn’s behavior was a HUGE issue for me. I mean, just from a plot standpoint, she was messy lmao but I just can’t with the lack of talking. The will they, won’t they, figure it out was fun. Cyn’s inability to string a simple sentence together so Jucee could understand how she felt? Not so much.
Regardless, there is a LOT of heart here and I heavily recommend it. Where it was good, it was GREAT! Found family, respect for sex work, and the realization that you’ve found true community was lovely, and I will definitely be reading more of Higgins’ work for sure.
Love Black women loving Black women.
But the poor communication/miscommunication was…oof!!!! I am very impatient and have VERY low tolerance for miscommunication, so Cyn’s behavior was a HUGE issue for me. I mean, just from a plot standpoint, she was messy lmao but I just can’t with the lack of talking. The will they, won’t they, figure it out was fun. Cyn’s inability to string a simple sentence together so Jucee could understand how she felt? Not so much.
Regardless, there is a LOT of heart here and I heavily recommend it. Where it was good, it was GREAT! Found family, respect for sex work, and the realization that you’ve found true community was lovely, and I will definitely be reading more of Higgins’ work for sure.
Love Black women loving Black women.
God of Blackfield by Mujang
Did not finish book.
Did not finish book.
bro woke up from a coma in the body of a kid who jumped off a roof and everyone is being totally normal about it
also being called the “God of Blackfield” of the “African War” is genuinely crazy work lmaoooo. they keep recommending this to me but uhhh…i’ll pass!
also being called the “God of Blackfield” of the “African War” is genuinely crazy work lmaoooo. they keep recommending this to me but uhhh…i’ll pass!
Blood Over Bright Haven by M.L. Wang
dark
emotional
hopeful
tense
5.0
Content Warnings
Graphic: Genocide, Racism, Sexual assault, Slavery, Violence, and Murder
Twisted Games by Ana Huang
Did not finish book. Stopped at 49%.
Did not finish book. Stopped at 49%.
grumpy sunshine without the charm? slow burn is no issue, but make it interesting. all this list, but where is the YEARNING??? at 50%, i should be rooting for them, but i’m bored!!! where is the genuine desire, the longing gazes, the fleeting touches? everything is about how grouchy, jaded and horny he is, how innocent, sweet and overwhelmed she is, and zero chemistry in the midst of that. it’s gonna have to be a no from me. also, he’s a cornball!