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iwasalilacsky's reviews
208 reviews
Hunter X Hunter, Vol. 32 by Yoshihiro Togashi
3.75
I just recently finished the show which is why you will now see me catching up on the manga.
I love so many of these characters very dearly and thrilled to see where we are going next for the Dark Continent Expedition arc.
Kurapika side story (not animated yet which is why I am commenting on it):
Smol Kurapika fight. He protect.
Truly a tragedy what happened.
side note: the big dodo birds were everything
I love so many of these characters very dearly and thrilled to see where we are going next for the Dark Continent Expedition arc.
Kurapika side story (not animated yet which is why I am commenting on it):
Smol Kurapika fight. He protect.
Truly a tragedy what happened.
side note: the big dodo birds were everything
Blue Lock, Vol. 1 by Muneyuki Kaneshiro
3.5
Anime starts Sunday, October 9th, so I had see what this was all about and was not disappointed as this has a lot of potential. This was allover wild and not what I expected. I'm just here for the ride and the crazy angry drawn faces.
I was searching for a Kageyama due to most sports manga's having the Kageyama-verse, but alas not one in sight yet. To be determined. That being said I do see a Kageyama look alike. I'm looking at you Isagi! đ
Random thoughts while reading:
Kunigami "Ah, my bad. My clothes flew away" Rensuke - WHAT IN THE RIPPED TEENAGER?! (also giving me if Bakugo had a brother vibes)
The boy sleeping on the floor (who I now know is Bahira Meguru) kills me. What a mood! (Potentially my favorite character already!)
Jinpachi is just too much lolol
This is tag on a whole new level!
Damnnnnnnn he was short-lived! (iykyk)
Igarashi - you are giving Connie Springer!
WHY DO THEY PLAY BAREFOOT?!
Okay I know we barely know Sae Itoshi (and I could change my mind), but ick.
*unnecessary boob shot #1*
LET'S GOOOOOOOOOOOOO!
I was searching for a Kageyama due to most sports manga's having the Kageyama-verse, but alas not one in sight yet. To be determined. That being said I do see a Kageyama look alike. I'm looking at you Isagi! đ
Random thoughts while reading:
Kunigami "Ah, my bad. My clothes flew away" Rensuke - WHAT IN THE RIPPED TEENAGER?! (also giving me if Bakugo had a brother vibes)
The boy sleeping on the floor (who I now know is Bahira Meguru) kills me. What a mood! (Potentially my favorite character already!)
Jinpachi is just too much lolol
This is tag on a whole new level!
Damnnnnnnn he was short-lived! (iykyk)
Igarashi - you are giving Connie Springer!
WHY DO THEY PLAY BAREFOOT?!
Okay I know we barely know Sae Itoshi (and I could change my mind), but ick.
*unnecessary boob shot #1*
LET'S GOOOOOOOOOOOOO!
I'm Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy
dark
emotional
funny
informative
inspiring
reflective
sad
5.0
5 STARS
Thoughts:
THIS. IS. MORE. THAN. JUST. A. MEMOIR.
This is a look into how parents shape the course of your entire life. This is a look into the dealings of narcissistic people. This is a deep look into the troubles of Hollywood. This is a look into child stars. This is a look into body dysmorphia, dysphoria, eating disorders, alcoholism, drugs, and toxic relationships.
I am truly moved.
This story- Jennetteâs story is brutal, candid and blunt. She has a way of telling her life with a nonchalance air to it, but still riveting.
Mothers will disappoint you at one time or another (or in Jennetteâs case time and time again). To unlearn and reset is one of the most difficult things to do and go through. I sympathize with and applaud Jennette with how frank she is through the process.
I found myself chuckling with Jennetteâs dark humor and pausing in contemplation when she stated some profound and moving thoughts. I will absolutely be leaving this memoir differently. I hope that everyone who reads it will too.
May she continue to heal!
Would I recommend this and to who:
Definitely, and I would recommend it to everyone, however please read the trigger warnings. I understand that this might not be for everyone.
Paperback/Hardcover/Audiobook/E-book:
Audiobook. I believe hearing Jennette voice her own story moved me even more.
How did I discover this:
Everywhere. The hype for this book is all around and well deserved.
Pace:
Fast to Medium
Cover thoughts:
Straight to the point in going along with the title. After reading it, I like it even more.
POV:
Single
Quotes:
âI feel like the world is divided into two types of people: people who know loss and people who don't.â
âWhy do we romanticize the dead? Why can't we be honest about them? Especially moms, they're the most romanticized of anyone. Moms are saints, angels by merely existing. No one could possibly understand what it's like to be a mom. Men will never understand, women with no children will never understand. No one but moms know the hardship of motherhood and we non-moms must heap nothing but praise upon mom because we lowly, pitiful, non-moms are mere peasants compared to the goddesses we call mothers.â
âI yearn to know the people I love deeply and intimatelyâwithout context, without boxesâand I yearn for them to know me that way, too.â
Triggers:
Eating Disorders, Abuse, Death, Vomit, Dysmorphia, Dysphoria, Alcoholism, Body Shaming, Cancer, Mental Illness, Toxic Relationships, Addiction, Sexual Assault, Grief, Panic Attacks, Self Harm, Suicidal Thoughts, Fatphobia, Drugs, Harassment, Rape, Swearing, Infidelity, Ableism, OCD, Homophobia, Religious Bigotry, Classism, Medical Trauma, etc.
Thoughts:
THIS. IS. MORE. THAN. JUST. A. MEMOIR.
This is a look into how parents shape the course of your entire life. This is a look into the dealings of narcissistic people. This is a deep look into the troubles of Hollywood. This is a look into child stars. This is a look into body dysmorphia, dysphoria, eating disorders, alcoholism, drugs, and toxic relationships.
I am truly moved.
This story- Jennetteâs story is brutal, candid and blunt. She has a way of telling her life with a nonchalance air to it, but still riveting.
Mothers will disappoint you at one time or another (or in Jennetteâs case time and time again). To unlearn and reset is one of the most difficult things to do and go through. I sympathize with and applaud Jennette with how frank she is through the process.
I found myself chuckling with Jennetteâs dark humor and pausing in contemplation when she stated some profound and moving thoughts. I will absolutely be leaving this memoir differently. I hope that everyone who reads it will too.
May she continue to heal!
Would I recommend this and to who:
Definitely, and I would recommend it to everyone, however please read the trigger warnings. I understand that this might not be for everyone.
Paperback/Hardcover/Audiobook/E-book:
Audiobook. I believe hearing Jennette voice her own story moved me even more.
How did I discover this:
Everywhere. The hype for this book is all around and well deserved.
Pace:
Fast to Medium
Cover thoughts:
Straight to the point in going along with the title. After reading it, I like it even more.
POV:
Single
Quotes:
âI feel like the world is divided into two types of people: people who know loss and people who don't.â
âWhy do we romanticize the dead? Why can't we be honest about them? Especially moms, they're the most romanticized of anyone. Moms are saints, angels by merely existing. No one could possibly understand what it's like to be a mom. Men will never understand, women with no children will never understand. No one but moms know the hardship of motherhood and we non-moms must heap nothing but praise upon mom because we lowly, pitiful, non-moms are mere peasants compared to the goddesses we call mothers.â
âI yearn to know the people I love deeply and intimatelyâwithout context, without boxesâand I yearn for them to know me that way, too.â
Triggers:
Eating Disorders, Abuse, Death, Vomit, Dysmorphia, Dysphoria, Alcoholism, Body Shaming, Cancer, Mental Illness, Toxic Relationships, Addiction, Sexual Assault, Grief, Panic Attacks, Self Harm, Suicidal Thoughts, Fatphobia, Drugs, Harassment, Rape, Swearing, Infidelity, Ableism, OCD, Homophobia, Religious Bigotry, Classism, Medical Trauma, etc.
Sea of Tranquility by Emily St. John Mandel
adventurous
challenging
hopeful
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
4.25
4.25 Stars
Thoughts:
I feel mind f*cked. Never at one point did I know where the plot was taking us. Every time I thought I had a grasp, we went down another lane or to another character. I donât even know where to begin in the breakdown of this story without giving it all away. Still left with many questions and not even a full understanding. All I can say is after the pandemic this hits too close to home.
Great characterization. Great plot. Great reveals. All of this done in only 255 pages too! Overall great story!
Extra .25 for the author actually letting a cat survive! Most authors have been killing pets off left and right, so thank you Emily St. John Mandel.
Would I recommend this and to who:
Yes - to those who love a little bit of sci-fi and a little bit of time travel and a whole lot of confusion.
Paperback/Hardcover/Audiobook/E-book:
E-book & Audiobook
How did I discover this:
GR!
Pace:
Medium (start) & Fast (end)
Cover thoughts:
Calming. There is something serene about it that just keeps me staring.
POV: (single or multi)
Multi
Quotes:
âIâd do it again. I wouldnât even hesitate.â
âMy point is, thereâs always something. I think, as a species, we have a desire to believe that weâre living at the climax of the story. Itâs a kind of narcissism. We want to believe that weâre uniquely important, that weâre living at the end of history, that now, after all these millennia of false alarms, now is finally the worst that itâs ever been, that finally we have reached the end of the world.â
âYou should have told me my cat was a time traveler.â
Triggers: *SPOILERS*
Death, War, Illness, Violence, Grief, Suicude, Trauma, Colonisation, Sexism, Vomit, etc.
Thoughts:
I feel mind f*cked. Never at one point did I know where the plot was taking us. Every time I thought I had a grasp, we went down another lane or to another character. I donât even know where to begin in the breakdown of this story without giving it all away. Still left with many questions and not even a full understanding. All I can say is after the pandemic this hits too close to home.
Great characterization. Great plot. Great reveals. All of this done in only 255 pages too! Overall great story!
Extra .25 for the author actually letting a cat survive! Most authors have been killing pets off left and right, so thank you Emily St. John Mandel.
Would I recommend this and to who:
Yes - to those who love a little bit of sci-fi and a little bit of time travel and a whole lot of confusion.
Paperback/Hardcover/Audiobook/E-book:
E-book & Audiobook
How did I discover this:
GR!
Pace:
Medium (start) & Fast (end)
Cover thoughts:
Calming. There is something serene about it that just keeps me staring.
POV: (single or multi)
Multi
Quotes:
âIâd do it again. I wouldnât even hesitate.â
âMy point is, thereâs always something. I think, as a species, we have a desire to believe that weâre living at the climax of the story. Itâs a kind of narcissism. We want to believe that weâre uniquely important, that weâre living at the end of history, that now, after all these millennia of false alarms, now is finally the worst that itâs ever been, that finally we have reached the end of the world.â
âYou should have told me my cat was a time traveler.â
Triggers: *SPOILERS*
Death, War, Illness, Violence, Grief, Suicude, Trauma, Colonisation, Sexism, Vomit, etc.
Beautiful World, Where Are You by Sally Rooney
challenging
emotional
funny
reflective
tense
medium-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? Yes
4.25
4.25 Stars
Thoughts:
After reading this book, I shall now put out a personal ad. It will read:
25 year old - seeking best friend to pen pal or lengthy email about my mundane existence and thought provoking questions about life and its meaning. Please DM if interested (lol)!
Oh Sally Rooney, you did it to me. You made me a fan of this one. After Normal People (which I did not like), I thought I would read this as my second book of yours and call it quits. I was looking for faults and although I did not like the characters at most times, where the plot was going, or even the grammar of this book, I enjoyed it. The complexity and beautiful ugliness of it all. It seems to me that I see another Sally Rooney read on the horizon now.
This story is about Alice, Eileen, Simon, and Felix. It is about friendship, love, religion, sex, life, and what they all mean to each other. If I was asked to describe this book in one word, the best way for me to describe it is human. It is that people are not always nice (especially to themselves). They are ugly to each other. They lie. They hurt to feel better about themselves. They are selfish. However, they also love each other. They desire. They often want the best for each other. They will stand beside you when you need it most. They are human.
Is this book therapy? In a way, yes.
Will you need therapy after this book? Yes, especially if you relate to one of the characters.
Do the characters themselves need therapy? ⊠YES. Absolutely yes!
My expectations of online dating are now to be asked by the second meeting if I would like to go to Rome whether it is a good or bad date. As you can see I am setting the bar in the normal range haha.
Would I recommend this and to who:
Yes, to those who probably already love Sally Rooney and those who might not, but will find that this one might surprise them.
Paperback/Hardcover/Audiobook/E-book:
Audiobook on Libby (an Irish accent is elite) and E-Book! I went back and forth between the two.
How did I discover this:
Everyone and their mother has heard of Sally Rooney in one way or another.
Pace:
Slow/Medium
Cover thoughts:
Very interesting and eye-catching.
Quotes:
âAnd we hate people for
making mistakes so much more than we love them for doing good that the
easiest way to live is to do nothing, say nothing, and love no one.â
âPeople think that socialism is sustained by forceâthe forcible expropriation of propertyâbut I wish they would just admit that capitalism is also sustained by exactly the same force in the opposite direction, the forcible protection of existing property arrangements.â
âIf God wanted me to give you up, he wouldn't have made me who I am.â
âIf you weren't my friend I wouldn't know who I wasâ
âThat's the thing about work, if it was any good you'd do it for free.â
âMaybe we're just born to love and worry about the people we know, and to go on loving and worrying even when there are more important things we should be doing.â
âBut if you think thereâs any chance that I could make you happy, I wish you would let me try. Because itâs the only thing I really want to do with my life.â
Triggers: *POSSIBLE SPOILERS*
Mental Illness, Suicidal Thoughts, Alcohol, Toxic Relationships, Sexual Content, Drugs, Swearing, Gaslighting, Classism, Death Mentions, Bullying, Grief, Misogyny, etc.
Thoughts:
After reading this book, I shall now put out a personal ad. It will read:
25 year old - seeking best friend to pen pal or lengthy email about my mundane existence and thought provoking questions about life and its meaning. Please DM if interested (lol)!
Oh Sally Rooney, you did it to me. You made me a fan of this one. After Normal People (which I did not like), I thought I would read this as my second book of yours and call it quits. I was looking for faults and although I did not like the characters at most times, where the plot was going, or even the grammar of this book, I enjoyed it. The complexity and beautiful ugliness of it all. It seems to me that I see another Sally Rooney read on the horizon now.
This story is about Alice, Eileen, Simon, and Felix. It is about friendship, love, religion, sex, life, and what they all mean to each other. If I was asked to describe this book in one word, the best way for me to describe it is human. It is that people are not always nice (especially to themselves). They are ugly to each other. They lie. They hurt to feel better about themselves. They are selfish. However, they also love each other. They desire. They often want the best for each other. They will stand beside you when you need it most. They are human.
Is this book therapy? In a way, yes.
Will you need therapy after this book? Yes, especially if you relate to one of the characters.
Do the characters themselves need therapy? ⊠YES. Absolutely yes!
My expectations of online dating are now to be asked by the second meeting if I would like to go to Rome whether it is a good or bad date. As you can see I am setting the bar in the normal range haha.
Would I recommend this and to who:
Yes, to those who probably already love Sally Rooney and those who might not, but will find that this one might surprise them.
Paperback/Hardcover/Audiobook/E-book:
Audiobook on Libby (an Irish accent is elite) and E-Book! I went back and forth between the two.
How did I discover this:
Everyone and their mother has heard of Sally Rooney in one way or another.
Pace:
Slow/Medium
Cover thoughts:
Very interesting and eye-catching.
Quotes:
âAnd we hate people for
making mistakes so much more than we love them for doing good that the
easiest way to live is to do nothing, say nothing, and love no one.â
âPeople think that socialism is sustained by forceâthe forcible expropriation of propertyâbut I wish they would just admit that capitalism is also sustained by exactly the same force in the opposite direction, the forcible protection of existing property arrangements.â
âIf God wanted me to give you up, he wouldn't have made me who I am.â
âIf you weren't my friend I wouldn't know who I wasâ
âThat's the thing about work, if it was any good you'd do it for free.â
âMaybe we're just born to love and worry about the people we know, and to go on loving and worrying even when there are more important things we should be doing.â
âBut if you think thereâs any chance that I could make you happy, I wish you would let me try. Because itâs the only thing I really want to do with my life.â
Triggers: *POSSIBLE SPOILERS*
Mental Illness, Suicidal Thoughts, Alcohol, Toxic Relationships, Sexual Content, Drugs, Swearing, Gaslighting, Classism, Death Mentions, Bullying, Grief, Misogyny, etc.
Seraph of the End, Vol. 16 by Takaya Kagami
4.0
WARNING: STUFFED ANIMALS WERE HARMED IN THE MAKING OF THIS VOLUME! *all fingers pointing to Guren*
I love that a fantasy manga with so many serious plot points never takes itself seriously. Thank you Takaya Kagami! The comedic relief of all of this is gold!
Thoughts along the way *most definitely spoilers thrown in here if you know what you are looking for*
vAmPiReS dOnT hAvE fEeLiNgS- sureeeeee
Ferid! Some time burning in sun did you good! Looking fab with the new cut âš
â-But we did rescue the perv.â âGuren you should never help the pervs. It isnât right.â (for anyone who has not read this manga⊠yes that is an actual line of text â ïž)
đ€Ł SOMEONE GET FERID SOME PANTS!
âSo how did it feel to get burned by the sun? Was it hot?"
Come on kids get in the car. We are off to take on god!
Not Ky Luc making a convertible for the queen to still be burning in the back seat. Although he shouldnât have taken out the windshield cause of bugs and such while driving, but Iâm sure he worried about other things tehe.
âWeâre amnesia twins!â HALP THIS BOY IS TOO DUMMY DUMB AND PRECIOUS FOR HIS OWN GOOD. How anyone could hurt/use/try to kill this boy is beyond me!
HIS PARTNER! IT WAS SAID HERE FIRST FOLKS! NO ANDS, IFS OR BUTS!
Guren what weird and creepy things do you have going on in that house and why wasnât I invited?? I mean Iâm human and unstable already soooo⊠Lol
Awww Mika stayed by his side the entire time. And then after a moonlight stroll, they held hands. Donât mind them just the usual normal and platonic things ya know.
What is Yu?? DUN, DUN, DUNNNNNNâŠ
I love that a fantasy manga with so many serious plot points never takes itself seriously. Thank you Takaya Kagami! The comedic relief of all of this is gold!
Thoughts along the way *most definitely spoilers thrown in here if you know what you are looking for*
vAmPiReS dOnT hAvE fEeLiNgS- sureeeeee
Ferid! Some time burning in sun did you good! Looking fab with the new cut âš
â-But we did rescue the perv.â âGuren you should never help the pervs. It isnât right.â (for anyone who has not read this manga⊠yes that is an actual line of text â ïž)
đ€Ł SOMEONE GET FERID SOME PANTS!
âSo how did it feel to get burned by the sun? Was it hot?"
Come on kids get in the car. We are off to take on god!
Not Ky Luc making a convertible for the queen to still be burning in the back seat. Although he shouldnât have taken out the windshield cause of bugs and such while driving, but Iâm sure he worried about other things tehe.
âWeâre amnesia twins!â HALP THIS BOY IS TOO DUMMY DUMB AND PRECIOUS FOR HIS OWN GOOD. How anyone could hurt/use/try to kill this boy is beyond me!
HIS PARTNER! IT WAS SAID HERE FIRST FOLKS! NO ANDS, IFS OR BUTS!
Guren what weird and creepy things do you have going on in that house and why wasnât I invited?? I mean Iâm human and unstable already soooo⊠Lol
Awww Mika stayed by his side the entire time. And then after a moonlight stroll, they held hands. Donât mind them just the usual normal and platonic things ya know.
What is Yu?? DUN, DUN, DUNNNNNNâŠ
Seraph of the End, Vol. 15 by Takaya Kagami
adventurous
challenging
funny
mysterious
tense
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
4.0
Whoâs ready for another chaotic Owari No Seraph review?! *crickets* Letâs go đ
mild spoilers if you know what is going on and if you do please tell me lol
Guren should know the jingle by now - đ”secrets, secrets are no fun unless you share with everyoneđ”
Mahiru with the baddie energy, but I refuse to like her at the moment. But this author is throwing my emotions around left and right so who knows.
EVERYONE READYING TO FIGHT AND THE MF WALTZ IN SAYS âYOâ ⊠AND THEN YU MALFUNCTIONS
THIS IS NOT A DRILL KIMIZUKI SMILED FOLKS đ
*yawns* Iâm sorry but I just do not care for Kureto vs his father. However I guess this revelation arc is important to the plot. So Iâm trying to pay attention I swear.
We have a new villain revealed as the puppet master! *whispers* They are very pretty, but trouble is coming.
Um- Aoi wasnât ready! I wasnât ready! I feel uncomfy.
Tehe Mika plotting. Itâs funny because when others plot someoneâs demise, itâs like oooo bad. When Mika does it Iâm like silly rabbit.. Trix are for kids haha.
So I know he has messed up but⊠get yourself a ride or die like Guren (also Mika). Thatâs friendship levels I expect from besties. We taking down the world to protect each other.
I lied get yourself a bestie like Yu. He is down for whatever no questions asked.
In the middle of all the craziness, they are all idiots. (this is a mainly @ Yu)
AHHH GUREN CHECKS ON HIM ONLY! You cannot tell me something isnât happening there. HE WOKE UP AND SAID HIS NAME FIRST THING LIKE THEY ARE USED TO SLEEPING NEXT TO EACH OTHER! â ïž Someone stop my shipping brain please.
Crowley appears for maybe 5 panels in this and Iâm kicking my feet back and forth. What has become of me?!
Who do we TRUST?! No đđŒ one đđŒ still đđŒ. Iâve learned no one.
mild spoilers if you know what is going on and if you do please tell me lol
Guren should know the jingle by now - đ”secrets, secrets are no fun unless you share with everyoneđ”
Mahiru with the baddie energy, but I refuse to like her at the moment. But this author is throwing my emotions around left and right so who knows.
EVERYONE READYING TO FIGHT AND THE MF WALTZ IN SAYS âYOâ ⊠AND THEN YU MALFUNCTIONS
THIS IS NOT A DRILL KIMIZUKI SMILED FOLKS đ
*yawns* Iâm sorry but I just do not care for Kureto vs his father. However I guess this revelation arc is important to the plot. So Iâm trying to pay attention I swear.
We have a new villain revealed as the puppet master! *whispers* They are very pretty, but trouble is coming.
Um- Aoi wasnât ready! I wasnât ready! I feel uncomfy.
Tehe Mika plotting. Itâs funny because when others plot someoneâs demise, itâs like oooo bad. When Mika does it Iâm like silly rabbit.. Trix are for kids haha.
So I know he has messed up but⊠get yourself a ride or die like Guren (also Mika). Thatâs friendship levels I expect from besties. We taking down the world to protect each other.
I lied get yourself a bestie like Yu. He is down for whatever no questions asked.
In the middle of all the craziness, they are all idiots. (this is a mainly @ Yu)
AHHH GUREN CHECKS ON HIM ONLY! You cannot tell me something isnât happening there. HE WOKE UP AND SAID HIS NAME FIRST THING LIKE THEY ARE USED TO SLEEPING NEXT TO EACH OTHER! â ïž Someone stop my shipping brain please.
Crowley appears for maybe 5 panels in this and Iâm kicking my feet back and forth. What has become of me?!
Who do we TRUST?! No đđŒ one đđŒ still đđŒ. Iâve learned no one.
Slewfoot: A Tale of Bewitchery by Brom
challenging
dark
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
4.5
*semi-spoilers*
Donât you just love when womenâŠ
- Speak up for themselves leaving men in shock
- Take what is already theirs (because it belongs to them)
- Figuratively give two middle fingers to puritan theologies
- Teach themselves the way to survive so they are not reliant on others such as tending to a farm, making deals with pagan spirits, using witchcraft and such (lol)
âŠif you do then this is the book for you!
*cue eerie music*
Puritans, Devils and Spiders, Oh my!
Abitha is a young married girl brought into the new world (Connecticut) by her husband, after her mother died and grieving drunken father sold her off. She and her husband, Edward, tend to the farm they live on. Although Edward is good to her, he does not have much of a backbone when it comes to his brother, Wallace. Due to some bad investments and deals, Wallace is trying to give the land Edward âalmost-fullyâ owns to settle those debts. With the help of Abitha, Edward stands up to Wallace. Just as things seem to be turning up, Edward falls into a pit that leads to his death as something has been lurking and hungry. A newly widowed Abitha is now left to fight for what is hers, prove others wrong and settle the last payment. Wallace will do everything in his power to see her fail. The âdevilâ is on the hunt. The church will condemn any behavior that poses against their point of view. With the help of her motherâs old ârecipeâ book with enchantments and potions as well as help from the last place she might have expected it, Abitha will strive against all who stand against her.
Abitha: I have so many things to say, but cannot even find the words. Love a baddie! *round of applause for all you did*
Samson: You took us on a ride trying to figure you out! I love the dedication to self-discovery. 1666 was your year!
Forest/Creek/Sky: The energy given here reminded me of the kids from The Nightmare Before Christmas with the sinister laughs and little, quirky games. As odd as they are, protect them at all costs!
The ladies/townspeople: They were very much giving The Crucible by Arthur Miller vibes.
Wallace: Rot! (thatâs all folks)
The rage that flowed through me while reading this story at times because of some people. This led to some much needed pacing around the room. Also the many times I cringed while visualizing the hundreds and thousands or spiders and bugs. Brom brings the gore, creepiness and dark themes in.
Food for thought after reading: The ârighteousâ must condemn the wicked, but isnât it interesting that usually those who believe they are ârighteousâ that are often than not the wicked ones themselves.
Physically I understand that it is still the beginning of September and over 80 degrees Fahrenheit out. Mentally I am in autumn and here for the creepy and spooky vibes. This story took me to exactly the right headspace of where I want to be.
Lastly I have to say it because it seems like the theme this year (*SPOILER*), AUTHORS STOP KILLING CATS IN YOUR BOOKS! MY HEART CAN ONLY TAKE SO MUCH!
Would I recommend this and to who:
Yes, to those who oppose Puritan ways, the patriarchy and are in the mood for some spooky feels. Tisâ the autumn season upon us!
Paperback/Hardcover/Audiobook/E-book:
E-book
How did I discover this:
GR friend Ethan Johnson recommendation
Pace:
Medium
Cover thoughts:
HAVE YOU SEEN IT?! LOVE!
Quotes:
âYou are a blessing, Abitha Williams. I would truly be lost without you.â She laughed. âWhat a couple of odd ducks we are. Well, mayhap together we will find our place.â
âSuffering does not bring one closer to God.â
âWhy do you torment me so? What is it I have done?â
âTorment you? Why, it is you that torments me!â
âIâve no soul left ⊠Theyâve crucified my fucking soul!â
âIf it is a witch they want ⊠then a witch they shall have.â
âIf it is a devil you seek, than it is a devil you shall have!â
Triggers:
Violence, Death, Animal Death/Cruelty, Torture, Gore, Religious Bigotry, Misogyny, Sexism, Injury, Confinement, Fire, Colonization, Bullying, Suicidal Thoughts, Grief, Racism, Gaslighting, Swearing Classism, etc.
Donât you just love when womenâŠ
- Speak up for themselves leaving men in shock
- Take what is already theirs (because it belongs to them)
- Figuratively give two middle fingers to puritan theologies
- Teach themselves the way to survive so they are not reliant on others such as tending to a farm, making deals with pagan spirits, using witchcraft and such (lol)
âŠif you do then this is the book for you!
*cue eerie music*
Puritans, Devils and Spiders, Oh my!
Abitha is a young married girl brought into the new world (Connecticut) by her husband, after her mother died and grieving drunken father sold her off. She and her husband, Edward, tend to the farm they live on. Although Edward is good to her, he does not have much of a backbone when it comes to his brother, Wallace. Due to some bad investments and deals, Wallace is trying to give the land Edward âalmost-fullyâ owns to settle those debts. With the help of Abitha, Edward stands up to Wallace. Just as things seem to be turning up, Edward falls into a pit that leads to his death as something has been lurking and hungry. A newly widowed Abitha is now left to fight for what is hers, prove others wrong and settle the last payment. Wallace will do everything in his power to see her fail. The âdevilâ is on the hunt. The church will condemn any behavior that poses against their point of view. With the help of her motherâs old ârecipeâ book with enchantments and potions as well as help from the last place she might have expected it, Abitha will strive against all who stand against her.
Abitha: I have so many things to say, but cannot even find the words. Love a baddie! *round of applause for all you did*
Samson: You took us on a ride trying to figure you out! I love the dedication to self-discovery. 1666 was your year!
Forest/Creek/Sky: The energy given here reminded me of the kids from The Nightmare Before Christmas with the sinister laughs and little, quirky games. As odd as they are, protect them at all costs!
The ladies/townspeople: They were very much giving The Crucible by Arthur Miller vibes.
Wallace: Rot! (thatâs all folks)
The rage that flowed through me while reading this story at times because of some people. This led to some much needed pacing around the room. Also the many times I cringed while visualizing the hundreds and thousands or spiders and bugs. Brom brings the gore, creepiness and dark themes in.
Food for thought after reading: The ârighteousâ must condemn the wicked, but isnât it interesting that usually those who believe they are ârighteousâ that are often than not the wicked ones themselves.
Physically I understand that it is still the beginning of September and over 80 degrees Fahrenheit out. Mentally I am in autumn and here for the creepy and spooky vibes. This story took me to exactly the right headspace of where I want to be.
Lastly I have to say it because it seems like the theme this year (*SPOILER*), AUTHORS STOP KILLING CATS IN YOUR BOOKS! MY HEART CAN ONLY TAKE SO MUCH!
Would I recommend this and to who:
Yes, to those who oppose Puritan ways, the patriarchy and are in the mood for some spooky feels. Tisâ the autumn season upon us!
Paperback/Hardcover/Audiobook/E-book:
E-book
How did I discover this:
GR friend Ethan Johnson recommendation
Pace:
Medium
Cover thoughts:
HAVE YOU SEEN IT?! LOVE!
Quotes:
âYou are a blessing, Abitha Williams. I would truly be lost without you.â She laughed. âWhat a couple of odd ducks we are. Well, mayhap together we will find our place.â
âSuffering does not bring one closer to God.â
âWhy do you torment me so? What is it I have done?â
âTorment you? Why, it is you that torments me!â
âIâve no soul left ⊠Theyâve crucified my fucking soul!â
âIf it is a witch they want ⊠then a witch they shall have.â
âIf it is a devil you seek, than it is a devil you shall have!â
Triggers:
Violence, Death, Animal Death/Cruelty, Torture, Gore, Religious Bigotry, Misogyny, Sexism, Injury, Confinement, Fire, Colonization, Bullying, Suicidal Thoughts, Grief, Racism, Gaslighting, Swearing Classism, etc.
The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang
dark
emotional
informative
sad
tense
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
5.0 STARS (BUT DOES ONE EVEN RATE THIS?!)
Thoughts:
*adding to my will: BURY ME WITH THIS BOOK TO READ IN THE AFTERLIFE*
No clue why I am writing this review after just finishing. I am still reeling, but must get my thoughts out as I speed dial my therapist. Forgive me if none of this is intelligible.
I feel hollow. I feel changed. How does one even begin to dissect this? I want to summarize this story, however I feel as though my words cannot uphold how truly astonishing this book is and will not add to what R.F. Kuang has summarized (as well as many other lovely reviewers).
I took my time in reading this to really savor it. It was like tea for my soul that didnât get over steeped no matter how long I took. Although towards the end, I needed and valued the time and breathers as there was so much going on.
Holy sh*t!! EVERY CHARACTER IS SO WELL WRITTEN AND DO NOT EVEN GET ME STARTED ON THIS PLOT! You are not supposed to like everyone or agree with even your favorite characterâs choices. Everyone is problematic. Nothing is glorified or the right decision. This book was a stab in the heart that Iâd ask for again, but not any time soon because I am dealing with what it just did to me.
I might be the last to jump on the bandwagon for this series, but if Iâm not then stop everything you are doing and go get this book! I hope everyone has the pleasure to. However, do read the trigger warnings please! This story is not for the faint of heart with situations of war that had actually transpired and is taken from history. RF Kuang does not hold back.
War is a remarkably terrifying thing, and even when itâs over⊠is it ever over? No one is lying when they say this book is dark. It is twisted. It is raw. It is emotional. It is gripping. I felt sick at many moments. I absolutely cried multiple times and sometimes forgot how to cry with how much is going on.
I cannot even begin to tell anyone how excited I am to continue this series! I googled that this might get a tv series and as amazing as that is, please take care of this story. Do it right!
Would I recommend this and to who:
Anyone who is looking for a story to take you down a morally grey road. AND TO BASICALLY ANYONE AND EVERYONE!
Paperback/Hardcover/Audiobook/E-book:
Paperback. This thing is underlined, written all over, and sticky tabbed. Hopefully no one I know will need to borrow it from me.
How did I discover this:
It is everywhere I look. Goodreads. Barnes & Noble. My local book stores. Booktok.
Pace:
Medium
Cover thoughts:
OUTSTANDING!
POV:
Rin
Quotes:
âWho controlled whom? Was it the solider who had called the god, or the god in the body of the solider?â
Great danger is always associated with great power. The difference between the great and the mediocre is that the great are willing to take that risk.
There is a price. This is always a price.
Chaos does not discriminate.
War doesn't determine who's right. War determines who remains.
Revenge will only bring you pain.
Triggers *SPOILERS*:
Genocide, Violence, Rape, War, Death, Murder, Gore, Drugs, Addiction, Torture, Sexual Violence, Self-Harm, Suicide, Suicidal Thoughts, Racism, Xenophobia, Colonization, Colorism, Bullying, Abuse, Animal Cruelty, Animal Death, Medical Trauma, Ableism, Infertility, Swearing, Sexism, Misogyny, Trafficking, etc.
Thoughts:
*adding to my will: BURY ME WITH THIS BOOK TO READ IN THE AFTERLIFE*
No clue why I am writing this review after just finishing. I am still reeling, but must get my thoughts out as I speed dial my therapist. Forgive me if none of this is intelligible.
I feel hollow. I feel changed. How does one even begin to dissect this? I want to summarize this story, however I feel as though my words cannot uphold how truly astonishing this book is and will not add to what R.F. Kuang has summarized (as well as many other lovely reviewers).
I took my time in reading this to really savor it. It was like tea for my soul that didnât get over steeped no matter how long I took. Although towards the end, I needed and valued the time and breathers as there was so much going on.
Holy sh*t!! EVERY CHARACTER IS SO WELL WRITTEN AND DO NOT EVEN GET ME STARTED ON THIS PLOT! You are not supposed to like everyone or agree with even your favorite characterâs choices. Everyone is problematic. Nothing is glorified or the right decision. This book was a stab in the heart that Iâd ask for again, but not any time soon because I am dealing with what it just did to me.
I might be the last to jump on the bandwagon for this series, but if Iâm not then stop everything you are doing and go get this book! I hope everyone has the pleasure to. However, do read the trigger warnings please! This story is not for the faint of heart with situations of war that had actually transpired and is taken from history. RF Kuang does not hold back.
War is a remarkably terrifying thing, and even when itâs over⊠is it ever over? No one is lying when they say this book is dark. It is twisted. It is raw. It is emotional. It is gripping. I felt sick at many moments. I absolutely cried multiple times and sometimes forgot how to cry with how much is going on.
I cannot even begin to tell anyone how excited I am to continue this series! I googled that this might get a tv series and as amazing as that is, please take care of this story. Do it right!
Would I recommend this and to who:
Anyone who is looking for a story to take you down a morally grey road. AND TO BASICALLY ANYONE AND EVERYONE!
Paperback/Hardcover/Audiobook/E-book:
Paperback. This thing is underlined, written all over, and sticky tabbed. Hopefully no one I know will need to borrow it from me.
How did I discover this:
It is everywhere I look. Goodreads. Barnes & Noble. My local book stores. Booktok.
Pace:
Medium
Cover thoughts:
OUTSTANDING!
POV:
Rin
Quotes:
âWho controlled whom? Was it the solider who had called the god, or the god in the body of the solider?â
Great danger is always associated with great power. The difference between the great and the mediocre is that the great are willing to take that risk.
There is a price. This is always a price.
Chaos does not discriminate.
War doesn't determine who's right. War determines who remains.
Revenge will only bring you pain.
Triggers *SPOILERS*:
Genocide, Violence, Rape, War, Death, Murder, Gore, Drugs, Addiction, Torture, Sexual Violence, Self-Harm, Suicide, Suicidal Thoughts, Racism, Xenophobia, Colonization, Colorism, Bullying, Abuse, Animal Cruelty, Animal Death, Medical Trauma, Ableism, Infertility, Swearing, Sexism, Misogyny, Trafficking, etc.
Fable by Adrienne Young
adventurous
challenging
hopeful
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.0
Alexa, play Daddy Issues by The Neighbourhood
đ”Go ahead and cry, little girl
Nobody does it like you do
I know how much it matters to you
I know that you got daddy issuesđ”
Thoughts:
Our story starts out with, Fable, a girl with a troubled past as her mother died and father, a well-known and feared trader, abandoned her on island. Trying to survive with the limited skills she has, she plans to get enough coin to take her across the sea in hopes of meeting her father again to be given what he promised was hers. While running off the island and fearing for her life, she plans to escape with the help of West, the helmsman, and his crew if only they will grant her passage on the Marigold. West and the crew take her aboard, but do not make it easy on her during the journey. Everyone has secrets that they are not willing to give. Survival is important, but choosing to surround yourself with those you would want to die next to is more. After being told many times that Fable is not meant for this world, she plans to prove them all wrong even with the dangers this brings to her.
Some kids grow up wanting to be an astronaut, a chef, a teacher, firefighter, etc. I wanted to be a pirate, so anything that is set in the open waters just appeals to me. However, I realized early on that I get seasick too easily, so the âagrrrrâ pirateâs life was not in the cards for me.
I wanted to love this book so much and after Daughter of the Pirate King (which is such a disappointing read for me), I was ready for a stand out with this one since it seems to be so loved⊠but it was only alright. I enjoyed it (I guess) at times, but it just felt too predictable. I didnât dislike Fable or really like her either. I stand by the found family trope (as it is my favorite), so I love a-coming-together-of-misfits. Fable finding the crew and slowly all of them becoming familiar with each other is my favorite part of this book.
The romance aspect to this just wasnât it for me for some reason. All she voiced was how attractive she thought he was and then we are supposed to be all in for the last 1/3 of the book. Iâm a sucker for a slow-burn, but I just didnât feel the yearning that I wanted if that is what we working with here. I did like the little romance scraps we get from the crew members, but they were basically non-existent for the most part! I think if more time was spent in character development and less on Fable giving us another past flashback or retelling, this could be phenomenal. Also, I am all for characters in touch with their feelings. You rightfully can be, but she just cried far too often. I had pause and cackle almost every time she had tears running down her face because at some moments, it just felt unnecessary. I digress â overall this was still good, but did not âwowâ me.
I will still consider reading the second one, but no promises that it will be soon. I need a moment to catch my sea legs (canât help it with the dad jokes).
Would I recommend this and to who:
Sigh, I mean maybe. Too anyone who wants a decent on-the-seas read.
Paperback/Hardcover/Audiobook/E-book:
E-book
How did I discover this:
Recommended by basically everyone on GR and my friend Maddie
Pace:
Medium
Cover thoughts:
So pretty! I am envious of her hair and cute freckles immediately!
POV:
Single - Fable
Quotes:
âBecause that kiss broke open some dark night sky within me filled with stars and moons and flaming comets. That darkness was replaced by the blazing fire of the sun racing under my skin.â
âShe was the pattern of stars that he navigated by, the sum of all directions on his compass. And he was lost without her.â
âWe both know that surviving means sometimes doing things that haunt you.â
âHe looked at me with a hundred stories lit behind his eyes.â
âLike a weary bird flying out over the most desolate sea, I finally had a place to land.â
Triggers:
Violence, Murder, Death, Abandonment, Grief, Kidnapping, Alcoholism, Bullying, Fire, Scars, Injury, Homophobia, Sexism, Swearing, etc.
đ”Go ahead and cry, little girl
Nobody does it like you do
I know how much it matters to you
I know that you got daddy issuesđ”
Thoughts:
Our story starts out with, Fable, a girl with a troubled past as her mother died and father, a well-known and feared trader, abandoned her on island. Trying to survive with the limited skills she has, she plans to get enough coin to take her across the sea in hopes of meeting her father again to be given what he promised was hers. While running off the island and fearing for her life, she plans to escape with the help of West, the helmsman, and his crew if only they will grant her passage on the Marigold. West and the crew take her aboard, but do not make it easy on her during the journey. Everyone has secrets that they are not willing to give. Survival is important, but choosing to surround yourself with those you would want to die next to is more. After being told many times that Fable is not meant for this world, she plans to prove them all wrong even with the dangers this brings to her.
Some kids grow up wanting to be an astronaut, a chef, a teacher, firefighter, etc. I wanted to be a pirate, so anything that is set in the open waters just appeals to me. However, I realized early on that I get seasick too easily, so the âagrrrrâ pirateâs life was not in the cards for me.
I wanted to love this book so much and after Daughter of the Pirate King (which is such a disappointing read for me), I was ready for a stand out with this one since it seems to be so loved⊠but it was only alright. I enjoyed it (I guess) at times, but it just felt too predictable. I didnât dislike Fable or really like her either. I stand by the found family trope (as it is my favorite), so I love a-coming-together-of-misfits. Fable finding the crew and slowly all of them becoming familiar with each other is my favorite part of this book.
The romance aspect to this just wasnât it for me for some reason. All she voiced was how attractive she thought he was and then we are supposed to be all in for the last 1/3 of the book. Iâm a sucker for a slow-burn, but I just didnât feel the yearning that I wanted if that is what we working with here. I did like the little romance scraps we get from the crew members, but they were basically non-existent for the most part! I think if more time was spent in character development and less on Fable giving us another past flashback or retelling, this could be phenomenal. Also, I am all for characters in touch with their feelings. You rightfully can be, but she just cried far too often. I had pause and cackle almost every time she had tears running down her face because at some moments, it just felt unnecessary. I digress â overall this was still good, but did not âwowâ me.
I will still consider reading the second one, but no promises that it will be soon. I need a moment to catch my sea legs (canât help it with the dad jokes).
Would I recommend this and to who:
Sigh, I mean maybe. Too anyone who wants a decent on-the-seas read.
Paperback/Hardcover/Audiobook/E-book:
E-book
How did I discover this:
Recommended by basically everyone on GR and my friend Maddie
Pace:
Medium
Cover thoughts:
So pretty! I am envious of her hair and cute freckles immediately!
POV:
Single - Fable
Quotes:
âBecause that kiss broke open some dark night sky within me filled with stars and moons and flaming comets. That darkness was replaced by the blazing fire of the sun racing under my skin.â
âShe was the pattern of stars that he navigated by, the sum of all directions on his compass. And he was lost without her.â
âWe both know that surviving means sometimes doing things that haunt you.â
âHe looked at me with a hundred stories lit behind his eyes.â
âLike a weary bird flying out over the most desolate sea, I finally had a place to land.â
Triggers:
Violence, Murder, Death, Abandonment, Grief, Kidnapping, Alcoholism, Bullying, Fire, Scars, Injury, Homophobia, Sexism, Swearing, etc.