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jai_98's reviews
29 reviews
A Thousand Boy Kisses by Tillie Cole
emotional
inspiring
reflective
sad
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
2.0
As a reader of romance novels, I was eager to dive into "A Thousand Boy Kisses" by Tillie Cole, given its intriguing premise. Unfortunately, I found myself utterly disappointed by the execution of this story, rendering it deserving of only two stars.
My first issue with the novel is the predictability. From the very beginning, it becomes painfully obvious how the plot will unfold. There are no surprises or twists along the way, making the reading experience quite dull. I was hoping for some unexpected turns or unique twists, but sadly, it never materialized. Moreover, the author's excessive reliance on sentimentalism leaves much to be desired. While I appreciate the emotional depth in a romance novel, "A Thousand Boy Kisses" crosses the line, plunging into an ocean of exaggerated sentimentality. The constant focus on heart-wrenching moments and tearful scenes becomes overwhelming, making it challenging to connect with the characters on a genuine level.
Furthermore, the character development felt lacking. Both the protagonists, Rune and Poppy, appear one-dimensional and fail to evolve throughout the course of the story. Their actions and decisions often come across as irrational or forced, making it difficult for readers to empathize with them. I wished for more depth and complexity in their personalities to make their journey more intriguing. By doing this I feel I would be more emotionally connected to the characters and therefore would have felt more sadness when their story comes to an end.
Additionally, the writing style falls short of expectations. While it is descriptive and flows smoothly, there are noticeable moments where the prose becomes hasty and lacks precision. This lack of attention to detail disrupted my immersion in the story, leaving me disconnected from the narrative. It is necessary to mention that A Thousand Boy Kisses deals with heavy themes such as loss, grief, and tragedy. While these themes are integral to the story, some readers may find it too emotionally challenging or triggering. It is vital to approach this book with caution, as it may not be suitable for everyone due to its intense and emotional content.
Finally, without giving away any spoilers, I must address the ending. I understand that bittersweet endings can be powerful and evoke strong emotions, but the way it was executed in "A Thousand Boy Kisses" left me unsatisfied. It felt rushed and didn't do justice to the emotional investment made throughout the book. I desired a more thought-provoking and satisfying resolution and would like to know more about what happened to the character.
In conclusion, "A Thousand Boy Kisses" by Tillie Cole failed to live up to my expectations. The overly predictable plot, excessive sentimentality, lacklustre character development, inconsistent writing style, and underwhelming ending prevent me from recommending this novel to others. It certainly had potential, but unfortunately, it fell short in too many areas. Despite its flaws, it remains a story that resonates with the power of young love and reminds us of the fragility of life.
Yellowface by R.F. Kuang
challenging
dark
emotional
funny
inspiring
reflective
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
"Yellowface" by R. F. Kuang is an exceptional literary work that delves into the complexities of racial identity and brilliantly dissects the struggles faced by individuals caught between cultures. Kuang's writing style is both captivating and thought-provoking, making this novel an absolute must-read.
From the start, Kuang draws readers into a richly constructed world, entwining themes of identity, race, and self-discovery with deftness and skill. The narrative effortlessly flows between past and present, immersing us in the lives of the characters and their personal journeys. The authentic portrayal of their thoughts, emotions, and experiences elicits a profound emotional impact. "Yellowface" tackles the issue of racial identity with nuance and sensitivity. Kuang skilfully exposes the complexities and internal conflicts faced by those who find themselves caught between cultural spheres. Through her characters, she peels back the layers of this intricate issue, forcing readers to confront their own assumptions and biases.
The depth of character development in "Yellowface" is extraordinary. Kuang breathes life into every character, imbuing them with distinct personalities, dreams, flaws, and desires. By doing so, she invites readers into their worlds and fosters a strong connection between the audience and the characters. I found myself deeply invested, rooting for their personal growth and triumphs. One of the most impressive aspects of this novel is Kuang's ability to use storytelling as a tool for social commentary. With thought-provoking prose, she highlights the impact of cultural appropriation and stereotypes, shedding light on the harmful consequences they have on individuals and communities. "Yellowface" forces readers to confront uncomfortable truths and compels them to question the authenticity of their perceptions. Kuang's masterful storytelling combined with her insightful exploration of racial identity makes "Yellowface" a literary gem. This novel amplifies marginalized voices, sparking the necessary conversations that challenge the societal status quo. It is an essential read for those seeking a deeper understanding of the complexities of race and identity in modern society.
In conclusion, "Yellowface" is a triumph of literature. R. F. Kuang's ability to seamlessly blend compelling storytelling with profound insights into racial identity sets this novel apart. It is a powerful and enlightening work that stays with you long after the final page is turned. Do not miss the opportunity to experience this extraordinary journey.
Ninth House by Leigh Bardugo
adventurous
dark
emotional
mysterious
tense
fast-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? It's complicated
5.0
Ninth House by Leigh Bardugo is a masterpiece that pulls readers into a world steeped in dark secrets, intrigue, and the chilling blend of magic and reality. This book deserves every bit of praise it receives, as it takes readers on a thrilling and thought-provoking journey that leaves an indelible mark on one's soul and is a great contender to be my favourite read of 2023.
Bardugo's exceptional storytelling skills are on full display, delivering a narrative that is both highly imaginative and intricately crafted. From the very first page, I found myself utterly captivated by the gripping plot and the unique blend of occult elements with the elite academic setting. The Yale University backdrop serves as the perfect juxtaposition, blending the prestigious veneer with the shadows lurking beneath its hallowed halls.
The protagonist, Galaxy "Alex" Stern, instantly commands attention with her sharp wit, resilience, and dark past. Bardugo’s characterization is exemplary; each character is vividly brought to life, with their flaws and virtues carefully woven into the fabric of the story. The interplay between the characters and their complex relationships never fails to captivate, as alliances shift, secrets unravel, and loyalties are put to the ultimate test. The world-building in Ninth House is nothing short of astonishing. Bardugo effortlessly combines the magical underbelly of New Haven with Yale's legendary secret societies, creating a rich tapestry of hidden realms, intricate rituals, and dangerous secrets. The way these elements are seamlessly integrated into the modern world is remarkable, adding a sense of magic and mystery to the otherwise mundane.
Bardugo's prose is as enchanting as ever, dripping with atmospheric descriptions that transport readers to the dimly lit corridors and ancient libraries of Yale. Her writing style is masterful, rich with detail and precision, effectively immersing readers in the sights, sounds, and emotions of the story. Furthermore, Ninth House delves into important themes like power, privilege, and the consequences of unchecked authority, presenting a dark mirror to our society. Bardugo explores these topics with depth and nuance, sparking thought-provoking discussions long after the final page has been turned.
In conclusion, Ninth House is a truly remarkable and unforgettable novel. It grabs hold of your imagination and refuses to let go. Leigh Bardugo's mastery shines through with each turn of the page, solidifying her place as one of the most talented writers in the genre. I wholeheartedly recommend Ninth House to anyone seeking a thrilling, dark, and intellectually stimulating reading experience. Buckle up and prepare to be transported into a world where magic and reality collide in the most enticing and extraordinary ways.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Violence, Death, Injury/Injury detail, and Physical abuse
Moderate: Drug abuse, Alcoholism, and Drug use
Unnatural Causes: The Life and Many Deaths of Britain's Top Forensic Pathologist by Richard Shepherd
5.0
Admissions: Life as a Brain Surgeon by Henry Marsh
2.0
The case studies within this book give a fascinating insight into working on the surgical front line in the UK. Henry Marsh (Author), has certainly dedicated his entire working life to help and save others however for me I feel as though he came across as very arrogant and as though he has a God complex. I noticed from early on that the book was more about his own journey and less about the people that he had helped and saved. This ruined it for me as I would have liked to know more about his patients and less about what he does/plans on doing with his retirement which is the majority of this memoir.
Henry discusses his collegues, patients, junior doctors, and his own responsibilities as an attending surgeon with a lot of bitterness and complained throughout about regulations and changes within his role that he did not agree with as to me he was stuck in the past having done the job for over four decades. Hi frequent complaints about the NHS and also his work within other countries left me feeling as though he saw himself as better than everyone else within the field.
Despite this, way in which Henry talks through the cases that are included is truly captivating, although maybe not for the faint hearted. As someone with little to no medical knowledge, the cases were described fantastically and I was able to follow along with ease which some authors within an area of expertise fail at with too much terminology the everyday person would not understand. The variety of cases discussed was fascinating to me as there were some fairly common cases but also rarer cases that you do not come across everyday.
The chronology of the writing could have been a lot better as often there would be jumps of time both forwards and backwards which left me often a little puzzled and difficult to follow the timeline.
Overall I did enjoy this book and the insight it gave me, however due to the God complex I feel that Henry Marsh has and his constant complaining has led me to not wish to read another of his books and ultimately I give 2 stars.
Henry discusses his collegues, patients, junior doctors, and his own responsibilities as an attending surgeon with a lot of bitterness and complained throughout about regulations and changes within his role that he did not agree with as to me he was stuck in the past having done the job for over four decades. Hi frequent complaints about the NHS and also his work within other countries left me feeling as though he saw himself as better than everyone else within the field.
Despite this, way in which Henry talks through the cases that are included is truly captivating, although maybe not for the faint hearted. As someone with little to no medical knowledge, the cases were described fantastically and I was able to follow along with ease which some authors within an area of expertise fail at with too much terminology the everyday person would not understand. The variety of cases discussed was fascinating to me as there were some fairly common cases but also rarer cases that you do not come across everyday.
The chronology of the writing could have been a lot better as often there would be jumps of time both forwards and backwards which left me often a little puzzled and difficult to follow the timeline.
Overall I did enjoy this book and the insight it gave me, however due to the God complex I feel that Henry Marsh has and his constant complaining has led me to not wish to read another of his books and ultimately I give 2 stars.