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elithebookish's Reviews (477)
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
funny
hopeful
informative
inspiring
mysterious
sad
tense
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
Convince me it was not homosexually charged stabbing ☺️
“I will find you. I will always find you. Try to run.”
The story is set in 1821 London (pre-Victorian and trains). Story mainly follows Will, a young boy fleeing after his mother's murder, who discovers he belongs to the Stewards—an ancient order tasked with preventing the return of the Dark King, a powerful force of evil once thought vanquished but now rising again.
Will and his companions face a dangerous world where they are pursued by the Dark King's followers. As they wrestle with their emerging powers and the weight of their destinies, Will begins to uncover the secrets of his past, revealing that the struggle between light and dark is far more complex than it appears.
Dark Rise by C.S. Pacat is a YA fantasy trilogy that weaves dark magic, ancient prophecies, and an epic battle between light and dark, and all shades of grey in between. Pacat named LOTR, Mirage of Blaze (BL series from 90s) and Please Save My Earth (manga from 80s) as inspo for this. It's told in 3rd pov (will be multi pov, age mainly 16/17-ish). The novel draws us readers in with its gripping action, captivating characters, and a haunting, dark atmosphere throughout the story.
This was my first book by this author and I'm dying to read Captive Prince trilogy now.
“I will find you. I will always find you. Try to run.”
The story is set in 1821 London (pre-Victorian and trains). Story mainly follows Will, a young boy fleeing after his mother's murder, who discovers he belongs to the Stewards—an ancient order tasked with preventing the return of the Dark King, a powerful force of evil once thought vanquished but now rising again.
Will and his companions face a dangerous world where they are pursued by the Dark King's followers. As they wrestle with their emerging powers and the weight of their destinies, Will begins to uncover the secrets of his past, revealing that the struggle between light and dark is far more complex than it appears.
Dark Rise by C.S. Pacat is a YA fantasy trilogy that weaves dark magic, ancient prophecies, and an epic battle between light and dark, and all shades of grey in between. Pacat named LOTR, Mirage of Blaze (BL series from 90s) and Please Save My Earth (manga from 80s) as inspo for this. It's told in 3rd pov (will be multi pov, age mainly 16/17-ish). The novel draws us readers in with its gripping action, captivating characters, and a haunting, dark atmosphere throughout the story.
This was my first book by this author and I'm dying to read Captive Prince trilogy now.
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
informative
inspiring
mysterious
sad
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
“You keep mentioning the way of fate,” she said.
“I am continuously told how my life is meant to be, but in this life, I have already decided I alone will shape my fate.”
What a journey! I have been fan of Beck since her very first book and I will be a fan even if the world disappears. I rarely cry, but she managed to make me SOB 3x!!! Like really - ugly cry. My soul was emotionally wrecked and I swear to the stars, I had physical heart pain, my friend. It was all panic and no disco! But I'm glad I was suffering along the guardians.
This series offers exploration of its characters' lives, weaving an epic tale that goes far beyond a simple journey and the events that transpire there. It shows us the weight of their decisions and the influence of those who come into their lives. Those who stay with us, those who teaches us and those who move on. This chunky story is not as big as Shattered Souls but it packs a punch and feels like several separate installments (flawlessly intertwined). Also, there were some twists I did not see coming. Hello? THE ENDING? DRUID? gosh!!!
You will experience grief, anger, madness, helplessness, resilience, doubts, absolute heartbreak, trickstery and love. Rising Dawn is a great continuation of the series and I can't wait to see what will happen in the following 3 books (as Beck mentioned, GOTM will be 7-book series).
Actual rating 4.5 stars
“I am continuously told how my life is meant to be, but in this life, I have already decided I alone will shape my fate.”
What a journey! I have been fan of Beck since her very first book and I will be a fan even if the world disappears. I rarely cry, but she managed to make me SOB 3x!!! Like really - ugly cry. My soul was emotionally wrecked and I swear to the stars, I had physical heart pain, my friend. It was all panic and no disco! But I'm glad I was suffering along the guardians.
This series offers exploration of its characters' lives, weaving an epic tale that goes far beyond a simple journey and the events that transpire there. It shows us the weight of their decisions and the influence of those who come into their lives. Those who stay with us, those who teaches us and those who move on. This chunky story is not as big as Shattered Souls but it packs a punch and feels like several separate installments (flawlessly intertwined). Also, there were some twists I did not see coming. Hello? THE ENDING? DRUID? gosh!!!
You will experience grief, anger, madness, helplessness, resilience, doubts, absolute heartbreak, trickstery and love. Rising Dawn is a great continuation of the series and I can't wait to see what will happen in the following 3 books (as Beck mentioned, GOTM will be 7-book series).
Actual rating 4.5 stars
challenging
dark
emotional
funny
informative
mysterious
sad
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
“Don't look back, don't slow down, and don't trust anyone. Be anyone but himself, and never be anyone for too long.” Neil after meeting Wymack and co:
TFC was published in 2013. “WHY HAVE I NOT PICKED THIS UP BEFORE, HUH??? The audacity of me ! -.- I'm writing my silly thoughts here after I've read all the available books btw.
Listen, is this a super well written book with flawless execution? No.
Is Neil reliable narrator? Absolutely the fuck not lol
Does a lot of situations and actions make sense? Hell no!
Do I think about The Foxes daily and want to reread all books like yesterday? 100% yes!
AFTG is an experience and if you enjoy it as much as I did - you are a cult follower now.
If someone would ask me what is the story about, it would be hard for me to answer. What I can say is this: you have Neil aka 'wayward child' (Jean's words) who is running away from his murderous crime lord father known as The Butcher for the past 8 years. Then he ends up with a group of misfits who have their own demons to battle (or have already). There's Exy - a made up sport, mafia, FBI, found family, crime, muurduur, mental health/trauma, gays, drugs, torture, comedic moments and all other colorful bits and pieces.
What's funny to me is that Neil thinks he's a somewhat normal boy - the most normal and sane person from Foxes, who just tries to survive. But from other perspectives, Neil is scary, unhinged, handsome yes (don't even deny it, Neil) and batshit crazy. Everyone's hands are full with Neil's antics and scheming. Especially Andrew, Kevin and coach :D
Neil 'I'm fine' Josten
Neil 'I have a bit of an attitude problem' Josten
Neil 'chronological liar' Josten
Neil 'I just asked' Josten
Neil 'color contacts and box dye' Josten
from Pinterest
He's honestly very self-aware. He will run his mouth without a stop while understanding consequences from his actions, but he will still go for the jugular. I think death is afraid of Neil, as he is ok with self-sabotage. My boy stirs up trouble and then books it. Fight and flight, baby. Also, Neil's narration is filled with many moments that are unintentionally funny.
“Here's some honesty," Neil said. "I don't like you, and I don't trust you." "It's mutual," Andrew said. "That doesn't change anything.”
As for the rest of the foxes:
Andrew — he was a puzzle that I wanted to crack
Aaron — he's there. He just wants a normal life
Kevin — Kevin is Kevin. I want a book about him
Dan — Foxes captain and cool person
Mat — kindest of the Foxes
Renee — love her
Allison — babe
Nicky — I liked him and then not really
Honestly, this series consumed me. I read all books in a very veeeery short period of time. I sneaked away from my family that I visit not often, just so I could squeeze in one more chapter. I even hid in my walk in closed from my little gremlin kids (my sister's) so I could read further. I'm shameless, I know haha. So as I said - it may not be the greatest written book, but boy oh boy it pulled all the emotions out of me and made me read chapter after chapter. I haven't had this sort of obsession for a while.
@unholyrodeo
from Pinterest
from Pinterest
from Pinterest
from Pinterest
TFC was published in 2013. “WHY HAVE I NOT PICKED THIS UP BEFORE, HUH??? The audacity of me ! -.- I'm writing my silly thoughts here after I've read all the available books btw.
Listen, is this a super well written book with flawless execution? No.
Is Neil reliable narrator? Absolutely the fuck not lol
Does a lot of situations and actions make sense? Hell no!
Do I think about The Foxes daily and want to reread all books like yesterday? 100% yes!
AFTG is an experience and if you enjoy it as much as I did - you are a cult follower now.
If someone would ask me what is the story about, it would be hard for me to answer. What I can say is this: you have Neil aka 'wayward child' (Jean's words) who is running away from his murderous crime lord father known as The Butcher for the past 8 years. Then he ends up with a group of misfits who have their own demons to battle (or have already). There's Exy - a made up sport, mafia, FBI, found family, crime, muurduur, mental health/trauma, gays, drugs, torture, comedic moments and all other colorful bits and pieces.
What's funny to me is that Neil thinks he's a somewhat normal boy - the most normal and sane person from Foxes, who just tries to survive. But from other perspectives, Neil is scary, unhinged, handsome yes (don't even deny it, Neil) and batshit crazy. Everyone's hands are full with Neil's antics and scheming. Especially Andrew, Kevin and coach :D
Neil 'I'm fine' Josten
Neil 'I have a bit of an attitude problem' Josten
Neil 'chronological liar' Josten
Neil 'I just asked' Josten
Neil 'color contacts and box dye' Josten
from Pinterest
He's honestly very self-aware. He will run his mouth without a stop while understanding consequences from his actions, but he will still go for the jugular. I think death is afraid of Neil, as he is ok with self-sabotage. My boy stirs up trouble and then books it. Fight and flight, baby. Also, Neil's narration is filled with many moments that are unintentionally funny.
“Here's some honesty," Neil said. "I don't like you, and I don't trust you." "It's mutual," Andrew said. "That doesn't change anything.”
As for the rest of the foxes:
Andrew — he was a puzzle that I wanted to crack
Aaron — he's there. He just wants a normal life
Kevin — Kevin is Kevin. I want a book about him
Dan — Foxes captain and cool person
Mat — kindest of the Foxes
Renee — love her
Allison — babe
Nicky — I liked him and then not really
Honestly, this series consumed me. I read all books in a very veeeery short period of time. I sneaked away from my family that I visit not often, just so I could squeeze in one more chapter. I even hid in my walk in closed from my little gremlin kids (my sister's) so I could read further. I'm shameless, I know haha. So as I said - it may not be the greatest written book, but boy oh boy it pulled all the emotions out of me and made me read chapter after chapter. I haven't had this sort of obsession for a while.
@unholyrodeo
from Pinterest
from Pinterest
from Pinterest
from Pinterest
challenging
emotional
mysterious
reflective
sad
tense
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
N/A
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
''Fate wasn’t wrong, Avery. I was. And I’ll spend everyday—beyond an eternity if that’s what it takes—proving to you that you’re my mate.''
Thank you Luna Lark/Veronica Eden, for this eARC. All thoughts are my own and left voluntarily.
* Fated /Rejected Mate
* PNR/Shifter Romance
* Miss Independent x Mr. “Sit Down” Alpha
* Friends x Enemies x Lovers
* 'Herbology lessons' vibe
* Happily Ever After
* 'Mate bond-play' - is this a thing? If not, I'll use it now lol
* Wolf aspects (obvi, from mating/knotting to daily chores)
Avery is considered wolfless (or is she?), a scorned outcast at the bottom of the pack, labeled a traitor due to her father's actions against the former Alpha. For the past seven years, she has fought to survive the hardships fate has thrown at her. To keep herself and her sisters alive, she relies on her foraging and trading skills, creating medications and salves for those in need. And then, the moment she's been waiting for.. she gets rejected by Caden - current Alpha and her former 'maybe more than friend'.
What I appreciated about this book was Avery's resilience. Some might have given up in her situation, but she kept going. The bond between the sisters and the nature-centric vibe were also highlights for me. As for the main couple, their chemistry, along with their playful and naughty wolves, is palpable. Once the cute moments start to pile up, you do want to smile and be happy for them.
However, I felt Avery forgave Caden too quickly. Considering how his past decisions affected her and her sisters' lives, I wanted to see more groveling. Earn the respect and love, dammit! It deserved more time, like a well-aged cheese (forgive the comparison, I just had some cheese lol). I wanted him to cry and feel like utter wanker for like 3y at least (ok, I overexaggerated but you get the idea). But this is not a duology nor trilogy, so we only have this book to work with. The ending, while predictable, was at least not 2min conclusion. Yet, something felt off. The mystery remains unresolved, suggesting we will explore what happened to ****** in the next book/-s. Will I pick up the next book? Yes!
Pick this up if you enjoy PNR romance, shifters, magic, spice, sadness, punching fist against your desk/wall, silly banter between oblivious potential love interests and occasional eye rolls.
Thank you Luna Lark/Veronica Eden, for this eARC. All thoughts are my own and left voluntarily.
* Fated /Rejected Mate
* PNR/Shifter Romance
* Miss Independent x Mr. “Sit Down” Alpha
* Friends x Enemies x Lovers
* 'Herbology lessons' vibe
* Happily Ever After
* 'Mate bond-play' - is this a thing? If not, I'll use it now lol
* Wolf aspects (obvi, from mating/knotting to daily chores)
Avery is considered wolfless (or is she?), a scorned outcast at the bottom of the pack, labeled a traitor due to her father's actions against the former Alpha. For the past seven years, she has fought to survive the hardships fate has thrown at her. To keep herself and her sisters alive, she relies on her foraging and trading skills, creating medications and salves for those in need. And then, the moment she's been waiting for.. she gets rejected by Caden - current Alpha and her former 'maybe more than friend'.
What I appreciated about this book was Avery's resilience. Some might have given up in her situation, but she kept going. The bond between the sisters and the nature-centric vibe were also highlights for me. As for the main couple, their chemistry, along with their playful and naughty wolves, is palpable. Once the cute moments start to pile up, you do want to smile and be happy for them.
However, I felt Avery forgave Caden too quickly. Considering how his past decisions affected her and her sisters' lives, I wanted to see more groveling. Earn the respect and love, dammit! It deserved more time, like a well-aged cheese (forgive the comparison, I just had some cheese lol). I wanted him to cry and feel like utter wanker for like 3y at least (ok, I overexaggerated but you get the idea). But this is not a duology nor trilogy, so we only have this book to work with. The ending, while predictable, was at least not 2min conclusion. Yet, something felt off. The mystery remains unresolved, suggesting we will explore what happened to ****** in the next book/-s. Will I pick up the next book? Yes!
Pick this up if you enjoy PNR romance, shifters, magic, spice, sadness, punching fist against your desk/wall, silly banter between oblivious potential love interests and occasional eye rolls.
dark
mysterious
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
N/A
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
“Welcome to Phantasma. There are only two rules to the game. Stay alive. And don’t fall in love.”
Thank you Kaylie Smith, Second Sky/Forever and Netgalley, for this eARC. All thoughts are my own and left voluntarily.
Phantasma is a captivating fantasy romance novel that blends seductive gothic elements with an engaging plot. This standalone revolves around a magical tournament inspired by the nine circles of Hell (set in a haunted mansion yay), creating a thrilling and atmospheric experience with mystery, action, gore galore and a generous dash of spice! Author managed to create a vivid imagery and kept overall great pace. Although, mid-way was mmm how can I say -meh? Something was irking me. Pacing, some repetitive moments and some character interactions.
Blurb says it all. Pick this up if you enjoy:
* Horror, Fantasy & Romance
* 'Magical New Orleans' vibe
* Deadly Trials
* Necromancer x Phantom
* OCD Representation
* Forbidden Romance
* Gore Galore
Art by @rosalynnarts
Thank you Kaylie Smith, Second Sky/Forever and Netgalley, for this eARC. All thoughts are my own and left voluntarily.
Phantasma is a captivating fantasy romance novel that blends seductive gothic elements with an engaging plot. This standalone revolves around a magical tournament inspired by the nine circles of Hell (set in a haunted mansion yay), creating a thrilling and atmospheric experience with mystery, action, gore galore and a generous dash of spice! Author managed to create a vivid imagery and kept overall great pace. Although, mid-way was mmm how can I say -meh? Something was irking me. Pacing, some repetitive moments and some character interactions.
Blurb says it all. Pick this up if you enjoy:
* Horror, Fantasy & Romance
* 'Magical New Orleans' vibe
* Deadly Trials
* Necromancer x Phantom
* OCD Representation
* Forbidden Romance
* Gore Galore
Art by @rosalynnarts
emotional
inspiring
fast-paced
Gorgeous art (it reminds me of watercolor paintings), emotions, fluff and slow burn, makes this story easy to read. And chibis are super cute! When I think of Qi Shi and Nan Jue, adorable and naive dummies description comes to mind :D I wish this was longer (felt like it ended very fast), we go some side stories and 'the abuser' got more karma back..
cw: domestic violence, abuse, bullying
cw: domestic violence, abuse, bullying
adventurous
challenging
emotional
informative
inspiring
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
''Nothing like fresh air, sunshine, and deadly venom to start our day'.
Sher Lee’s 'Legend of the White Snake' is a lush reimagining of a classic Chinese folktale that weaves together elements of fantasy, palace intrigue, high stakes, and romance. This atmospheric YA historical tale will transport and captivate readers, I'm sure of it!🐍🤍🐉
--
Seven years ago, an ordinary but curious white snake named Zhen consumed a coveted spirit pearl, fulfilling his deepest desire—to transform and experience life as a human, leaving his footprints on the paths of the world. However, Zhen's involvement with the pearl inadvertently crushed another boy's hopes, or so it seemed.
Now, seven years later, following an oracle's prediction, Prince Xu Xian journeys to the city of Changle in search of the white snake, the vital ingredient for an antidote to save his mother, who was bitten by a white snake and is slowly succumbing to the venom.
As fate would have it, the determined Prince Xian meets Zhen. They are immediately drawn to each other, but Zhen quickly realizes he is the white snake Xian seeks. As their emotions deepen, so does Zhen's guilt. Will the truth about Zhen’s identity tear them apart? Read on to find out.
--
I thoroughly enjoyed Xian and Zhen's journey of love, loss, discovery, and hope. Despite the grim and dangerous moments, you'll also experience amusing banter between friends and lovers. When I think of Xian, the word 'zesty' comes to mind haha—he's easy on the eyes, caring, and determined, though not very religious (I wonder why). As for the lovely Zhen, he is protective, loyal, delicate, and kind. The tension, flirting and gentle moments were everything! For story being under 400 pages long, it packed enough of punch. But I wish we had it little bit longer though.
This is a perfect read for you if you enjoy historical fantasy/fiction and mythology, with a dose of romance between two male characters (who are cute and whipped for each other hehe).
Thank you Sher Lee and Allison, from HarperCollins, for this eARC. All thoughts are my own and left voluntarily.
Sher Lee’s 'Legend of the White Snake' is a lush reimagining of a classic Chinese folktale that weaves together elements of fantasy, palace intrigue, high stakes, and romance. This atmospheric YA historical tale will transport and captivate readers, I'm sure of it!🐍🤍🐉
--
Seven years ago, an ordinary but curious white snake named Zhen consumed a coveted spirit pearl, fulfilling his deepest desire—to transform and experience life as a human, leaving his footprints on the paths of the world. However, Zhen's involvement with the pearl inadvertently crushed another boy's hopes, or so it seemed.
Now, seven years later, following an oracle's prediction, Prince Xu Xian journeys to the city of Changle in search of the white snake, the vital ingredient for an antidote to save his mother, who was bitten by a white snake and is slowly succumbing to the venom.
As fate would have it, the determined Prince Xian meets Zhen. They are immediately drawn to each other, but Zhen quickly realizes he is the white snake Xian seeks. As their emotions deepen, so does Zhen's guilt. Will the truth about Zhen’s identity tear them apart? Read on to find out.
--
I thoroughly enjoyed Xian and Zhen's journey of love, loss, discovery, and hope. Despite the grim and dangerous moments, you'll also experience amusing banter between friends and lovers. When I think of Xian, the word 'zesty' comes to mind haha—he's easy on the eyes, caring, and determined, though not very religious (I wonder why). As for the lovely Zhen, he is protective, loyal, delicate, and kind. The tension, flirting and gentle moments were everything! For story being under 400 pages long, it packed enough of punch. But I wish we had it little bit longer though.
This is a perfect read for you if you enjoy historical fantasy/fiction and mythology, with a dose of romance between two male characters (who are cute and whipped for each other hehe).
Thank you Sher Lee and Allison, from HarperCollins, for this eARC. All thoughts are my own and left voluntarily.
adventurous
dark
emotional
tense
fast-paced
Strong character development:
N/A
𝗢𝗰𝗲𝗮𝗻 𝗼𝗳 𝗦𝗶𝗻 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗿𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 is a spicy dark-fantasy romance, where you will meet blasphemous and poetic Priest, morally grey pirates and equally grey sirens. It's a standalone spin-off of A Ship of Bones and Teeth.
It's been a while since I read Karina's book. I missed her on-page violence, wild ideas, sinful scenes and questionable characters. This was fairly easy to read - even though you would guess how things would go, you still get surprises. And cameos!! I was happy to see *them* again. As for Larimar and Priest - they are down bad for each other. From hate to lust to sudden? love. Entertaining and twisted couple for sure!
Personally, some interactions, sentences and scenes felt a bit random, biiiit silly or unnecessary. Even though I enjoyed the main couple, I didn't feel as invested as I thought I will be. But I did like the conclusion for both - the main couple and Maren x Bones :) Either way, if you pick this one up - you're in for a journey!
* Touch her and ☠️
* "She's Mine"
* Magic
* "I dream for the first time in.."
* Found Family
Thank you Karina Halle and RRS for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review! All thoughts are my own and left voluntarily.
Actual rating: 3.5
It's been a while since I read Karina's book. I missed her on-page violence, wild ideas, sinful scenes and questionable characters. This was fairly easy to read - even though you would guess how things would go, you still get surprises. And cameos!! I was happy to see *them* again. As for Larimar and Priest - they are down bad for each other. From hate to lust to sudden? love. Entertaining and twisted couple for sure!
Personally, some interactions, sentences and scenes felt a bit random, biiiit silly or unnecessary. Even though I enjoyed the main couple, I didn't feel as invested as I thought I will be. But I did like the conclusion for both - the main couple and Maren x Bones :) Either way, if you pick this one up - you're in for a journey!
* Touch her and ☠️
* "She's Mine"
* Magic
* "I dream for the first time in.."
* Found Family
Thank you Karina Halle and RRS for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review! All thoughts are my own and left voluntarily.
Actual rating: 3.5