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iwasalilacsky's reviews
208 reviews
Finding Me by Viola Davis
5.0
Nothing I say will put into words how marvelous this read was, so instead please read the quotes I have left below knowing there are a lot more quotable moments I did not list and then go read this book!
“I knew my life would be a fight, and I realized this: I had it in me.”
“May you live long enough to know why you were born.”
“...learned the hard way that when there are underlying issues, money does nothing. In fact, money exacerbates the problem because it takes away the individual’s ability to be held accountable.”
“No, but I’m doing the work. I’m in therapy. I’ve gotta clean things up before I can invite anyone into my life to love me.”
“My biggest discovery was that you can literally re-create your life. You can redefine it. You don’t have to live in the past. I found that not only did I have fight in me, I had love.”
“Coming from a childhood of trauma, I needed a radical transformation. I hadn’t been taught how to navigate the world. I hadn’t been taught what could help me grow or live better. I’d been taught how to run from the world. I’d been taught how to hide and fight. I hadn’t been taught how to love and be still. As soon as he came into my life my life got better because I created a family with him, with someone who loved me. I was no longer solely defined by the family that raised me and my childhood memories… I could create my own family and I could create it intentionally with what I had learned.”
Love going into 2023 with such a great and promising book start!
“I knew my life would be a fight, and I realized this: I had it in me.”
“May you live long enough to know why you were born.”
“...learned the hard way that when there are underlying issues, money does nothing. In fact, money exacerbates the problem because it takes away the individual’s ability to be held accountable.”
“No, but I’m doing the work. I’m in therapy. I’ve gotta clean things up before I can invite anyone into my life to love me.”
“My biggest discovery was that you can literally re-create your life. You can redefine it. You don’t have to live in the past. I found that not only did I have fight in me, I had love.”
“Coming from a childhood of trauma, I needed a radical transformation. I hadn’t been taught how to navigate the world. I hadn’t been taught what could help me grow or live better. I’d been taught how to run from the world. I’d been taught how to hide and fight. I hadn’t been taught how to love and be still. As soon as he came into my life my life got better because I created a family with him, with someone who loved me. I was no longer solely defined by the family that raised me and my childhood memories… I could create my own family and I could create it intentionally with what I had learned.”
Love going into 2023 with such a great and promising book start!
呪術廻戦 21 by Gege Akutami
3.0
Where are we at volume wise? I have absolutely no clue yet (so the review might change). With that being said I will try to leave this as spoiler free as possible.
Although I am glad we get glimpses of Yuta, Panda, Maki, and Noritoshi, where is everyone else?! My impatience is showing and I miss everyone else too! Now that I have expressed that, I do want to go back and say ... MAKI! YUTA! GO OFF!
We are introduced to some new characters, but honestly the Kinji Hakari vs. Hajime Kashimo battle (well cool and very interesting) was dragged out a little for my taste. The idea behind Hakari blows my mind, and I cannot wrap my head around him truthfully.
We never know where Gege will take us, but excited to find out!
P.S. Bring Yuji and Megumi back please (and hard ask but Gojo too! I at least want to see what is going on in the box.)
Although I am glad we get glimpses of Yuta, Panda, Maki, and Noritoshi, where is everyone else?! My impatience is showing and I miss everyone else too! Now that I have expressed that, I do want to go back and say ... MAKI! YUTA! GO OFF!
We are introduced to some new characters, but honestly the Kinji Hakari vs. Hajime Kashimo battle (well cool and very interesting) was dragged out a little for my taste. The idea behind Hakari blows my mind, and I cannot wrap my head around him truthfully.
We never know where Gege will take us, but excited to find out!
P.S. Bring Yuji and Megumi back please (and hard ask but Gojo too! I at least want to see what is going on in the box.)
Out of the Blue by MsKingBean89
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An Ember in the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
4.25
4.25 Stars
Thoughts:
An Ember in the Ashes is a book that doesn't stop or really give you a chance to catch your breath. Immediately from the beginning you are captured and pulled into the main characters' complicated and tragic lives and then it's go, go, go. You will find yourself not knowing whether it's okay to bookmark and get back to your daily life as it feels that even when you are at the end of a chapter that you are still in the middle of the crisis as it doesn't pause - it only changes point-of-view. How Sabaa Tahir manages to keep your enthralled the entire time is magically.
Part one of this series brings into question freedom and all of it's meanings while tying in fate and dynasty and its role for both Elias and Laia. There are twists I wouldn't have expected. Just when I thought I had it figured out or knew how I felt about a character, Sabaa changes it up on you. This book is dark and intense, and sometimes I questioned it being YA. This is to be enjoyed by all ages.
I truly shouldn't have to give my recommendation as this book has won two Goodreads awards: Nominee for Best Debut Goodreads Author (2015), Nominee for Best Young Adult Fantasy & Science Fiction (2015)
Only reason I knocked off .75 stars is because of my struggle with the supporting characters at times and their reasoning and complexity for things. I wish I was more attached to them. I'm sure more is to be explained in the future books, and I'll get to know them better, but some things irked me. Do not let this dissuade you!
Thrilled for the journey of this series!
Would I recommend this and to who:
Those interested in a different take to fantasy. With the hundreds out there is it amazing to find this one has an original take and freshness to it.
Paperback/Hardcover/Audiobook/E-book:
Paperback
How did I discover this:
Sister recommendation, Used book store
Pace:
Medium
Cover thoughts:
Love both the old and new cover. Currently have the old cover as I purchased this at a used bookstore. Hoping to now find all the old covers for my set.
POV: (single or multi)
Multi
Quotes:
"Tomorrow, I'm the one who will be set free. Not you.
'Death is coming for me. Death is nearly here. I am ready for him.
"Fear is only your enemy if you allow it to be."
Triggers: *Possible Spoilers*
Rape, Sexual assault, Sexual violence, Violence, Slavery, Death, Harassment, Injury, Genocide, War, Grief, Abandonment, Speak of Abortion, Torture, Sexism, Illness, Kidnapping, Trafficking, Suicidal thoughts, etc.
Thoughts:
An Ember in the Ashes is a book that doesn't stop or really give you a chance to catch your breath. Immediately from the beginning you are captured and pulled into the main characters' complicated and tragic lives and then it's go, go, go. You will find yourself not knowing whether it's okay to bookmark and get back to your daily life as it feels that even when you are at the end of a chapter that you are still in the middle of the crisis as it doesn't pause - it only changes point-of-view. How Sabaa Tahir manages to keep your enthralled the entire time is magically.
Part one of this series brings into question freedom and all of it's meanings while tying in fate and dynasty and its role for both Elias and Laia. There are twists I wouldn't have expected. Just when I thought I had it figured out or knew how I felt about a character, Sabaa changes it up on you. This book is dark and intense, and sometimes I questioned it being YA. This is to be enjoyed by all ages.
I truly shouldn't have to give my recommendation as this book has won two Goodreads awards: Nominee for Best Debut Goodreads Author (2015), Nominee for Best Young Adult Fantasy & Science Fiction (2015)
Only reason I knocked off .75 stars is because of my struggle with the supporting characters at times and their reasoning and complexity for things. I wish I was more attached to them. I'm sure more is to be explained in the future books, and I'll get to know them better, but some things irked me. Do not let this dissuade you!
Thrilled for the journey of this series!
Would I recommend this and to who:
Those interested in a different take to fantasy. With the hundreds out there is it amazing to find this one has an original take and freshness to it.
Paperback/Hardcover/Audiobook/E-book:
Paperback
How did I discover this:
Sister recommendation, Used book store
Pace:
Medium
Cover thoughts:
Love both the old and new cover. Currently have the old cover as I purchased this at a used bookstore. Hoping to now find all the old covers for my set.
POV: (single or multi)
Multi
Quotes:
"Tomorrow, I'm the one who will be set free. Not you.
'Death is coming for me. Death is nearly here. I am ready for him.
"Fear is only your enemy if you allow it to be."
Triggers: *Possible Spoilers*
Rape, Sexual assault, Sexual violence, Violence, Slavery, Death, Harassment, Injury, Genocide, War, Grief, Abandonment, Speak of Abortion, Torture, Sexism, Illness, Kidnapping, Trafficking, Suicidal thoughts, etc.
The Holiday Trap by Roan Parrish
hopeful
lighthearted
3.75
3.75 Stars
Thoughts:
Tis’ the season and I wanted a holiday read, so why not make the Yuletide gay (lol)?
First of all let’s set the record straight that Horse (who is a Great Dane) is the main character of this story. And if not him, Ramona the fairy god-b*tch is (her own words)!
If you select to read this book, please do it in the coziest setting of your choice. Mine was next to my Christmas tree on the sofa wrapped in blankets with a cup of tea and ‘Christmas Coffee Shop’ ambience in the background. It was perfect and made this reading all the more enjoyable.
This book was charming and somewhat steamy at times (and it wasn’t just because of the cocoa or New Orleans weather)! Greta and Truman are both stuck in their ways, and we have a chance to join their journey of self-discovery, change, holiday-feels and finding love. It was a fun fast-paced read. The predictability of this book was high, but if you treat it like a hallmark movie or a holiday romance read (because it is), then you’ll find yourself enjoying it nonetheless. My only bad remarks might be that we jump in the romance aspects of it a little too quickly. This is especially in Greta’s case. I also think the 6 months later epilogues didn’t need to be as long.
Would I recommend this and to who:
Those who want queer and cheer for the holiday. (I needed the rhyme lol).
Paperback/Hardcover/Audiobook/E-book:
Paperback
How did I discover this:
Barnes and Noble Holiday Romance Shelf
Pace:
Fast to Medium
Cover thoughts:
Eh. It does the job in telling you what the book is about and cutesy.
POV: (single or multi)
Multi - Greta & Truman
Quotes:
(In regards to a garden) “I asked her once if she had planted them with composition in mind, and she said. ‘You don’t compose nature. Nature composes, and it’s up to you to find the right perspective.”
Triggers:
Emotional abuse, Sexual content, Toxic relationship, Infidelity, Dementia, Domestic abuse, Homophobia, etc.
Thoughts:
Tis’ the season and I wanted a holiday read, so why not make the Yuletide gay (lol)?
First of all let’s set the record straight that Horse (who is a Great Dane) is the main character of this story. And if not him, Ramona the fairy god-b*tch is (her own words)!
If you select to read this book, please do it in the coziest setting of your choice. Mine was next to my Christmas tree on the sofa wrapped in blankets with a cup of tea and ‘Christmas Coffee Shop’ ambience in the background. It was perfect and made this reading all the more enjoyable.
This book was charming and somewhat steamy at times (and it wasn’t just because of the cocoa or New Orleans weather)! Greta and Truman are both stuck in their ways, and we have a chance to join their journey of self-discovery, change, holiday-feels and finding love. It was a fun fast-paced read. The predictability of this book was high, but if you treat it like a hallmark movie or a holiday romance read (because it is), then you’ll find yourself enjoying it nonetheless. My only bad remarks might be that we jump in the romance aspects of it a little too quickly. This is especially in Greta’s case. I also think the 6 months later epilogues didn’t need to be as long.
Would I recommend this and to who:
Those who want queer and cheer for the holiday. (I needed the rhyme lol).
Paperback/Hardcover/Audiobook/E-book:
Paperback
How did I discover this:
Barnes and Noble Holiday Romance Shelf
Pace:
Fast to Medium
Cover thoughts:
Eh. It does the job in telling you what the book is about and cutesy.
POV: (single or multi)
Multi - Greta & Truman
Quotes:
(In regards to a garden) “I asked her once if she had planted them with composition in mind, and she said. ‘You don’t compose nature. Nature composes, and it’s up to you to find the right perspective.”
Triggers:
Emotional abuse, Sexual content, Toxic relationship, Infidelity, Dementia, Domestic abuse, Homophobia, etc.
All The Young Dudes - Volume 3: ‘Til the End by MsKingBean89
For non-book records, review text and ratings are hidden. Only mood, pace, and content warnings are visible.
Spy x Family, Vol. 10 by Tatsuya Endo
4.0
When you're fluff manga comes at you to break your heart! Another volume I treasure dearly.
Who knew the filler side missions would give me such joy.
Yor & Melinda Friendship Level: +10
Anya & Damian Friendship Level: -100
Who knew the filler side missions would give me such joy.
Yor & Melinda Friendship Level: +10
Anya & Damian Friendship Level: -100
My Hero Academia, Vol. 36 by Kōhei Horikoshi
4.5
Chapters 359-362 (SPOILERS! READ AT YOUR OWN RISK) All of this may be indecipherable as I am still reeling.
Who knows where we are at volume wise, but pretty sure this most recent chapter is for volume 37. I need to vent/cry/scream/rant somewhere!
>Triple threat power appearance! Let's go big 3!
-Tamaki is too cute for words - "Eating bugs is all the rage these days!" *unleashes scorpion ability* GO OFF!
-Also no one calls Lemillion stupid unless they want me to come for them, but he more than shows that he can handle himself.
-Aww the introduction between Nejire Chan and Tamaki is precious!
-IN SUNEATER WE TRUST!
>SHIGGY SUCKS YALLLLL! (and I'll say it again!) I know he had it tough and I feel awful for the life he had. I feel like I wouldn't be human if I didn't, but.... we cannot just turn a blind eye to everything he is doing. I am scheduling 'throwing hands' with him into my calendar cause I cannot! In the words of Tamaki - "GET WRECKED!!"
>Okay I'll be very honest and say Bakugo has never been my favorite because being an asshole shouldn't be a personality trait, but I care for the kid a lot. He has always wanted to be number 1, and I know he has self-esteem issues. Seeing this happen to him has broken a part of me. I didn't know I was so attached to him. This is truly, truly heartbreaking.
-"Gotta win... Right, Izuku?" HE USED HIS ACTUAL NAME *CRIES* "So, Izuku... Can I... Still catch up to you?" *SOBS* "Man... I wanted an autogragh so bad" *THROWING MYSELF TO THE GROUND*
-EVERYONES FACES!!! I AM HAUNTED BY THAT IMAGE! I AM UNWELL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
For my own personal health and mental sanity I shall be choosing to ignore chapter 362.
Who knows where we are at volume wise, but pretty sure this most recent chapter is for volume 37. I need to vent/cry/scream/rant somewhere!
>Triple threat power appearance! Let's go big 3!
-Tamaki is too cute for words - "Eating bugs is all the rage these days!" *unleashes scorpion ability* GO OFF!
-Also no one calls Lemillion stupid unless they want me to come for them, but he more than shows that he can handle himself.
-Aww the introduction between Nejire Chan and Tamaki is precious!
-IN SUNEATER WE TRUST!
>SHIGGY SUCKS YALLLLL! (and I'll say it again!) I know he had it tough and I feel awful for the life he had. I feel like I wouldn't be human if I didn't, but.... we cannot just turn a blind eye to everything he is doing. I am scheduling 'throwing hands' with him into my calendar cause I cannot! In the words of Tamaki - "GET WRECKED!!"
>Okay I'll be very honest and say Bakugo has never been my favorite because being an asshole shouldn't be a personality trait, but I care for the kid a lot. He has always wanted to be number 1, and I know he has self-esteem issues. Seeing this happen to him has broken a part of me. I didn't know I was so attached to him. This is truly, truly heartbreaking.
-"Gotta win... Right, Izuku?" HE USED HIS ACTUAL NAME *CRIES* "So, Izuku... Can I... Still catch up to you?" *SOBS* "Man... I wanted an autogragh so bad" *THROWING MYSELF TO THE GROUND*
-EVERYONES FACES!!! I AM HAUNTED BY THAT IMAGE! I AM UNWELL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
For my own personal health and mental sanity I shall be choosing to ignore chapter 362.
All The Young Dudes - Volume Two: Years 5 - 7 by MsKingBean89
For non-book records, review text and ratings are hidden. Only mood, pace, and content warnings are visible.
Hunter X Hunter, Vol. 33 by Yoshihiro Togashi
3.75
Everyone deserves a ride or die like Leorio in their life.
Since this is the beginning of the arc, there is a lot of explanations and planning which does tend to drag a little. However, I am overall pleased since we get more Kurapika who I have missed so much.
In this volume we get introduced to many new characters who I feel will only play a major role in this arc alone. A little annoyed that Ging and Pariston are continuing on for the time being as they are some of my least favorite characters. Gon with no feeling of aura now is taking some (probably much needed) time off. Killua is no where is sight. It seems like the two main characters are out of the spot light for a moment.
All in all an enjoyable volume as the mission is on and the zodiacs have filled there missing positions.
Since this is the beginning of the arc, there is a lot of explanations and planning which does tend to drag a little. However, I am overall pleased since we get more Kurapika who I have missed so much.
In this volume we get introduced to many new characters who I feel will only play a major role in this arc alone. A little annoyed that Ging and Pariston are continuing on for the time being as they are some of my least favorite characters. Gon with no feeling of aura now is taking some (probably much needed) time off. Killua is no where is sight. It seems like the two main characters are out of the spot light for a moment.
All in all an enjoyable volume as the mission is on and the zodiacs have filled there missing positions.