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hobbithopeful's reviews
227 reviews
Going Bicoastal by Dahlia Adler
Did not finish book. Stopped at 54%.
Did not finish book. Stopped at 54%.
This format is just not for me. Felt a bit gimmicky, the mc goes through no real challenges or problems, likely because each story is half the book so there isn't time.
Had issues with the male love interest, just because he is brown on the cover and his brother runs a taco truck doesn't make him brown.
Story switching between chapters made it difficult to connect with characters.
Loved the Jewish and Bisexual rep though, I just think this one wasn't for me.
Had issues with the male love interest, just because he is brown on the cover and his brother runs a taco truck doesn't make him brown.
Story switching between chapters made it difficult to connect with characters.
Loved the Jewish and Bisexual rep though, I just think this one wasn't for me.
With the Fire on High by Elizabeth Acevedo
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
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? Yes
5.0
Elizabeth Acevedo wows again, With the Fire on High is an emotional and raw novel following Emoni and her struggle of trying to balance school, raising her daughter, and trying to figure out what she wants out of life.
This is not a book to read on an empty stomach, every meal had my stomach grumbling at the deletable descriptions, and mouth-watering recipes.
A favorite element of all of Acevedo's books is how race is talked about and dealt with. I relate so much whenever this comes up, and the way it is handled feels like a window to my heart had her peering in and putting onto page what I feel.
I never really thought I would enjoy and relate to a book about pregnancy, and the struggle of being a teen mom, and how it affects your entire life and those around you. It is truly a testament to the excellent writing how relatable and real the characters felt. When 'Buela confessed about her doctors appointments, I think my heart broke a little.
Acevedo truly succeeds at putting so much of herself and her heart in every page, as much as love and family is a running theme, so too is hope, and not giving up no matter how hard life gets. I think one of the reasons I always reach for Acevedo's books is because they alway give me hope, and make me feel less alone. So many times I feel so alone, lost, and adrift in life, and then I read a heart-warming novel such as this one and it makes me feel like maybe I can make through another day. That maybe no matter how much I am struggling now, it will all be worth it in the end. To chase your dreams is to welcome fear and learn to be okay with doubt and taking a chance on stuff that might not succeed. I may not have a family like Emoni does, but I do have an unshakeable perseverance, and books like this that allow me to keep going.
A MUST READ.
This is not a book to read on an empty stomach, every meal had my stomach grumbling at the deletable descriptions, and mouth-watering recipes.
A favorite element of all of Acevedo's books is how race is talked about and dealt with. I relate so much whenever this comes up, and the way it is handled feels like a window to my heart had her peering in and putting onto page what I feel.
I never really thought I would enjoy and relate to a book about pregnancy, and the struggle of being a teen mom, and how it affects your entire life and those around you. It is truly a testament to the excellent writing how relatable and real the characters felt. When 'Buela confessed about her doctors appointments, I think my heart broke a little.
Acevedo truly succeeds at putting so much of herself and her heart in every page, as much as love and family is a running theme, so too is hope, and not giving up no matter how hard life gets. I think one of the reasons I always reach for Acevedo's books is because they alway give me hope, and make me feel less alone. So many times I feel so alone, lost, and adrift in life, and then I read a heart-warming novel such as this one and it makes me feel like maybe I can make through another day. That maybe no matter how much I am struggling now, it will all be worth it in the end. To chase your dreams is to welcome fear and learn to be okay with doubt and taking a chance on stuff that might not succeed. I may not have a family like Emoni does, but I do have an unshakeable perseverance, and books like this that allow me to keep going.
A MUST READ.
Content Warnings
Minor: Bullying, Racism, Sexism, Death of parent, Pregnancy, Abandonment
Spell Bound by F.T. Lukens
emotional
funny
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.25
Okay, I actually like this book. I had tried reading In Deeper Waters, and ended up DNF because I couldn't handle the writing style and the cheesey writing. I've heard so much praise about Spell Bound, I knew I had to give Lukens another chance. I'm actually really glad I did! I thoroughly enjoyed this fantastical romance about magic, found family, and grief. I liked the characters a lot more, and was very engaged with the plot and especially all the magical elements.
My only complaint is regarding Sun and race. The way they are written does not in any way convey the race they are "supposed" to be. Apart from the cover, it is nearly impossible to realise they are supposed to be BIPOC.
A good read, though I am unsure if I would read another of Lukens books, they seem to vary in consistency.
My only complaint is regarding Sun and race. The way they are written does not in any way convey the race they are "supposed" to be. Apart from the cover, it is nearly impossible to realise they are supposed to be BIPOC.
A good read, though I am unsure if I would read another of Lukens books, they seem to vary in consistency.
Content Warnings
Minor: Violence, Kidnapping
A Soul to Keep by Opal Reyne
adventurous
emotional
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
A MONSTER ROMANCE WHERE THE MONSTER *ACTUALLY* LOOKS LIKE A MONSTER!
I adored this book! The writing is incredible, the spicy scenes were drool worthy, and the characters were so lovable. I loved how Reia and Orpheus's relationship developed over time, as they grew closer and got to know one another.
I was so blown away by the world building, I've read high fantasy fat ass books that don't have a crumb of lore and such that this book does. All the characters we got to get peeks at that foreshadow future books have me so excited to read the next one.
You guys the dialogue in this! THE DIALOGUE! *fans self* Orpheus was so sweet and silly, but at the same time was also dirty and such a pro at pillow talk.
One more bit I want to add is that I liked how Reia was a very fleshed out character. Often times in romance it seems the main subject is just romance and smut, (sometimes I like that sometimes it's meh) I liked how Reia had hobbies, such as making clothes and practicing with a sword.
After reading this, all I can say is, I for one am more more than ready to whisked away by a Duskwalker.
Now let me go binge read the rest of the series!
I adored this book! The writing is incredible, the spicy scenes were drool worthy, and the characters were so lovable. I loved how Reia and Orpheus's relationship developed over time, as they grew closer and got to know one another.
I was so blown away by the world building, I've read high fantasy fat ass books that don't have a crumb of lore and such that this book does. All the characters we got to get peeks at that foreshadow future books have me so excited to read the next one.
You guys the dialogue in this! THE DIALOGUE! *fans self* Orpheus was so sweet and silly, but at the same time was also dirty and such a pro at pillow talk.
One more bit I want to add is that I liked how Reia was a very fleshed out character. Often times in romance it seems the main subject is just romance and smut, (sometimes I like that sometimes it's meh) I liked how Reia had hobbies, such as making clothes and practicing with a sword.
After reading this, all I can say is, I for one am more more than ready to whisked away by a Duskwalker.
Now let me go binge read the rest of the series!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Body horror, Death, Sexual content, Violence, Blood, Kidnapping, Murder
Moderate: Death of parent
She Gets the Girl by Alyson Derrick, Rachael Lippincott
emotional
funny
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
The love guru is in! Brash and bold Alex is determined to help shy and introverted Molly date Cora, the perfect way to show Alex's maybe-still-a-girlfriend that she can do commitment and and doesn't flirt with everyone she sees. But as Alex and Molly become friends, they each realize there is more to the other than meets the eye.
Queer, funny, and emotional, this was a sweet read. I really loved the complex characters, they are all so fleshed out and not just one note. At first I was off put by Alex and her somewhat abrasive personality. But much like Molly, I soon realized how much more there was to her, and why she is the way she is. (And how incredibly sweet, and thoughtful she truly is!)
I am really glad this book didn't shy away from topics like alcoholism, race, and toxic relationships. I was kinda worried how these subjects would be handled, but it was all done incredibly well and realistically. There is no quick fix to getting sober, and there is no easy way to end a toxic relationship. It's important to have people in your life who can support you and point out their concerns and fears with your partner.
I also liked the inclusion and differences between Alex and Molly in regards to how they experience college based on their financial situation. It's not often I see the college experience show someone struggling to make ends meet, and the reality of what it is like to go through that.
A great queer romance, and one I definitely recommend! I can't wait to check out other books by these authors now.
Queer, funny, and emotional, this was a sweet read. I really loved the complex characters, they are all so fleshed out and not just one note. At first I was off put by Alex and her somewhat abrasive personality. But much like Molly, I soon realized how much more there was to her, and why she is the way she is. (And how incredibly sweet, and thoughtful she truly is!)
I am really glad this book didn't shy away from topics like alcoholism, race, and toxic relationships. I was kinda worried how these subjects would be handled, but it was all done incredibly well and realistically. There is no quick fix to getting sober, and there is no easy way to end a toxic relationship. It's important to have people in your life who can support you and point out their concerns and fears with your partner.
I also liked the inclusion and differences between Alex and Molly in regards to how they experience college based on their financial situation. It's not often I see the college experience show someone struggling to make ends meet, and the reality of what it is like to go through that.
A great queer romance, and one I definitely recommend! I can't wait to check out other books by these authors now.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Alcoholism, Toxic relationship
Minor: Racism, Abandonment, Sexual harassment
Heartstopper Volume 4 by Alice Oseman
challenging
emotional
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
My favorite installment in the series so far, emotional and angsty, this had much needed growth as well as conflict that really makes it stand apart in the series.
I really love how much character development happened, how many conversations, as well as boundaries were established. I was worried in past books that they were getting a little codependent, but this one was just so GOOD. All the topics and issues discussed were just done so well, I really feel like we get the most character growth and complexity in this one. In the past volumes Nick and Charlie didn't feel as well rounded and fleshed out, in this one they shine!
I can't wait to read the next volume when it comes out.
I really love how much character development happened, how many conversations, as well as boundaries were established. I was worried in past books that they were getting a little codependent, but this one was just so GOOD. All the topics and issues discussed were just done so well, I really feel like we get the most character growth and complexity in this one. In the past volumes Nick and Charlie didn't feel as well rounded and fleshed out, in this one they shine!
I can't wait to read the next volume when it comes out.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Bullying, Eating disorder, Homophobia, Self harm
Heartstopper Volume 3 by Alice Oseman
emotional
funny
mysterious
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.25
Heartstopper Volume 2 by Alice Oseman
emotional
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.25
Heartstopper Volume 1 by Alice Oseman
emotional
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25
A cute and queer light-hearted story. I enjoyed it, sometimes it's nice to shut your brain off.
I'll read anything that Alice Oseman creates, and I will now binge the rest of the volumes. (Shout out to Libby!)
I'll read anything that Alice Oseman creates, and I will now binge the rest of the volumes. (Shout out to Libby!)
Content Warnings
Moderate: Bullying, Homophobia, Outing
This Wicked Fate by Kalynn Bayron
adventurous
challenging
emotional
funny
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
I enjoyed this sequel, but it definitely wasn't as strong as the first book. I felt there were pacing issues, and I felt like I was waiting for something to happen for most of the book.
That isn't to say that I didn't thoroughly enjoy it, I love this series and the characters, it was hard not to be engaged.
I just was hoping for a bit more, considering how strong and well developed the first book was.
I did like the inclusion of more mythology, this was definently took more of a turn away from science and leaned more into the fantasy aspect, but it still worked really well.
I know this is only a duology but I would read another book in the series, I feel like there is still more to explore and I just really love the world that Kalynn Bayron has created.
That isn't to say that I didn't thoroughly enjoy it, I love this series and the characters, it was hard not to be engaged.
I just was hoping for a bit more, considering how strong and well developed the first book was.
I did like the inclusion of more mythology, this was definently took more of a turn away from science and leaned more into the fantasy aspect, but it still worked really well.
I know this is only a duology but I would read another book in the series, I feel like there is still more to explore and I just really love the world that Kalynn Bayron has created.
Definitely read this, especially if you enjoyed the first book.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Violence
Minor: Death of parent