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jai_98's reviews
29 reviews
Darkest Night by Jenny O'Brien
3.0
Darkest Nights will keep you turning page after page without wanting to stop. The mystery and suspense has you hooked right up until the very end.
Despite not reading book 1 in this series I felt that I didn't actually need to and could read this as an individual release. I got a very good picture of who the main character of the series was from the outset. Throughout the book there are references to the previous however the author did a fantastic job at ensuring the reader is kept up to speed with what has happened previously as well as what I can imagine to be a great recap for continuing readers of the series.
The plot is very well paced and the plot thickened with every turn of a page ensuring that the reader is kept guessing and trying to put together the pieces of the puzzle themselves. The novel is written from various different characters point of view which can often become confusing however it is kept chronological therefore the reader is easily able to keep up with the events. Personally I really enjoy getting the story from multiple view points as I was able to put myself into each characters shoes and even second guessing my own thought process about what had actually happened and whether each character was being truthful.
One thing I thought was a little far fetched was Gabby's rise through the ranks despite previous issues meaning that she had to be relocated. I would like to continue reading this series however I do not think it will be any time soon as despite the story being captivating, I feel as though there are plenty of other books that closely follow the same idea. Due to this I shall be giving this novel three stars.
Despite not reading book 1 in this series I felt that I didn't actually need to and could read this as an individual release. I got a very good picture of who the main character of the series was from the outset. Throughout the book there are references to the previous however the author did a fantastic job at ensuring the reader is kept up to speed with what has happened previously as well as what I can imagine to be a great recap for continuing readers of the series.
The plot is very well paced and the plot thickened with every turn of a page ensuring that the reader is kept guessing and trying to put together the pieces of the puzzle themselves. The novel is written from various different characters point of view which can often become confusing however it is kept chronological therefore the reader is easily able to keep up with the events. Personally I really enjoy getting the story from multiple view points as I was able to put myself into each characters shoes and even second guessing my own thought process about what had actually happened and whether each character was being truthful.
One thing I thought was a little far fetched was Gabby's rise through the ranks despite previous issues meaning that she had to be relocated. I would like to continue reading this series however I do not think it will be any time soon as despite the story being captivating, I feel as though there are plenty of other books that closely follow the same idea. Due to this I shall be giving this novel three stars.
Tracer by Jason Dean
4.0
Jason Dean’s ‘Tracer’ is the first instalment of the Korso Thriller series. The series follows an international assassin on his adventures as a salvage operative who is tasked with finding missing or stolen items with incredibly high values. The items can range from high-priced paintings to shipments of drugs and weapons.
Throughout this first instalment, Jason Korso is used to laying low and hiding in plain sight due to the nature of his work, having so many different identities that he struggles to remember the name he was born with. Korso prefers to work alone to ensure that his identity is never leaked to the wrong people and that he cannot be tracked whilst tracking thieves of dodgy benefactors himself. This journey takes Korso to beautiful Bermuda where he has been blackmailed to retrieve a shipment of stolen overpriced caviar by an old foe. Either retrieve the package or die. There is also a hint of romance within this thriller as Korso, out of no choice of his own, is accompanied by Natasha, one of his blackmailer’s accomplices meaning that this mission would be different to any he has undertaken before.
This novel is filled with fast-paced action and scenes of suspense that kept me hooked throughout. There are many twists throughout which left me reading and unable to put it down. This was my first read by Jason Dean and I will certainly be reading more in the future. Tracer left me wanting to follow Jason Korso on more of his adventures to see what trouble he can get into next.
Throughout this first instalment, Jason Korso is used to laying low and hiding in plain sight due to the nature of his work, having so many different identities that he struggles to remember the name he was born with. Korso prefers to work alone to ensure that his identity is never leaked to the wrong people and that he cannot be tracked whilst tracking thieves of dodgy benefactors himself. This journey takes Korso to beautiful Bermuda where he has been blackmailed to retrieve a shipment of stolen overpriced caviar by an old foe. Either retrieve the package or die. There is also a hint of romance within this thriller as Korso, out of no choice of his own, is accompanied by Natasha, one of his blackmailer’s accomplices meaning that this mission would be different to any he has undertaken before.
This novel is filled with fast-paced action and scenes of suspense that kept me hooked throughout. There are many twists throughout which left me reading and unable to put it down. This was my first read by Jason Dean and I will certainly be reading more in the future. Tracer left me wanting to follow Jason Korso on more of his adventures to see what trouble he can get into next.
The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller
2.0
Despite all the hype and praise surrounding this book, it simply did not live up to my expectations.
Firstly, the characters felt shallow and one-dimensional. Achilles and Patroclus are two iconic figures from Greek mythology, yet I found their portrayal in this novel to be lacking depth. Their relationship, which is supposed to be the central focus of the story, felt rushed and underdeveloped. I couldn't fully invest in their connection, as it seemed to lack the emotional depth that would have made it truly compelling.
Moreover, the pacing of the book was incredibly slow. The narrative dragged on, making it difficult for me to stay engaged. While I understand that Greek mythology can be complex, Miller's writing style failed to captivate me. The prose felt flat and lacked the poetic beauty that one might expect from a retelling of such an epic tale.
Additionally, I found the plot to be predictable and unremarkable. The events and conflicts unfolded in a manner that felt formulaic, leaving little room for surprises or genuine suspense. I was hoping for a fresh take on the myth of Achilles, but instead, I was met with a rather generic story that failed to leave a lasting impact.
Furthermore, the world-building was lacking. The ancient Greek setting felt superficial, and I longed for more vivid descriptions that would transport me to that era. The author missed an opportunity to fully immerse readers in the rich tapestry of Greek mythology, leaving me feeling detached from the story.
Lastly, the dialogue felt forced and unnatural at times. The characters' conversations lacked authenticity and failed to evoke any genuine emotions. This further hindered my ability to connect with the story and its protagonists.
In conclusion, while "Song of Achilles" may have garnered widespread acclaim, I found it to be a lackluster reading experience. The shallow characters, slow pacing, predictable plot, weak world-building, and stilted dialogue all contributed to my overall disappointment. Unfortunately, I cannot join in the chorus of praise for this novel
Firstly, the characters felt shallow and one-dimensional. Achilles and Patroclus are two iconic figures from Greek mythology, yet I found their portrayal in this novel to be lacking depth. Their relationship, which is supposed to be the central focus of the story, felt rushed and underdeveloped. I couldn't fully invest in their connection, as it seemed to lack the emotional depth that would have made it truly compelling.
Moreover, the pacing of the book was incredibly slow. The narrative dragged on, making it difficult for me to stay engaged. While I understand that Greek mythology can be complex, Miller's writing style failed to captivate me. The prose felt flat and lacked the poetic beauty that one might expect from a retelling of such an epic tale.
Additionally, I found the plot to be predictable and unremarkable. The events and conflicts unfolded in a manner that felt formulaic, leaving little room for surprises or genuine suspense. I was hoping for a fresh take on the myth of Achilles, but instead, I was met with a rather generic story that failed to leave a lasting impact.
Furthermore, the world-building was lacking. The ancient Greek setting felt superficial, and I longed for more vivid descriptions that would transport me to that era. The author missed an opportunity to fully immerse readers in the rich tapestry of Greek mythology, leaving me feeling detached from the story.
Lastly, the dialogue felt forced and unnatural at times. The characters' conversations lacked authenticity and failed to evoke any genuine emotions. This further hindered my ability to connect with the story and its protagonists.
In conclusion, while "Song of Achilles" may have garnered widespread acclaim, I found it to be a lackluster reading experience. The shallow characters, slow pacing, predictable plot, weak world-building, and stilted dialogue all contributed to my overall disappointment. Unfortunately, I cannot join in the chorus of praise for this novel
Alone with You in the Ether by Olivie Blake
5.0
"Alone With You in the Ether" by Olivie Blake is an extraordinary literary masterpiece that effortlessly transports readers into a world brimming with imagination, emotion, and profound introspection. With its captivating storytelling, richly developed characters, and lyrical prose, this novel is an absolute triumph that deserves every bit of its five-star rating.
Blake's ability to weave together a complex narrative is nothing short of remarkable. From the very first page, I found myself completely enthralled by the enigmatic tale unfolding before me. The author's eloquence in painting vivid scenes and evoking powerful emotions made it impossible to put the book down. Each chapter unraveled a new layer of mystery, creating a sense of anticipation and wonder that kept me eagerly turning the pages.
One of the novel's greatest strengths lies in its cast of characters, who are flawlessly crafted and profoundly relatable. They breathe with life, each possessing their own struggles, desires, and vulnerabilities. I formed a deep connection with the protagonist, whose journey through the ether was not only an exploration of the external world but also a profound introspection of the human condition. The supporting characters, too, left a lasting impression, with their nuanced personalities and intricate relationships adding depth and authenticity to the story.
Blake's writing style is simply sublime. The prose flows effortlessly, carrying the reader along a river of emotions and introspection. The author's ability to convey intricate thoughts and profound concepts in such a beautiful and accessible manner is a testament to their exceptional talent. Every sentence is meticulously crafted, each word carefully chosen to create a melodic symphony that resonates long after the final page is turned.
"Alone With You in the Ether" is a true testament to the power of storytelling. It explores themes of love, loss, identity, and the complexities of the human experience with unparalleled depth and sensitivity. Olivie Blake's ability to balance introspection and action, emotion and suspense, is masterful, resulting in a book that is as thought-provoking as it is entertaining.
In conclusion, "Alone With You in the Ether" is a literary gem that deserves the highest praise. Olivie Blake's exceptional storytelling, well-developed characters, and enchanting prose make this novel an unforgettable reading experience. If you are seeking a captivating journey that will transport you to the depths of the human soul and leave you yearning for more, then this book is an absolute must-read. Prepare to be spellbound from beginning to end.
Blake's ability to weave together a complex narrative is nothing short of remarkable. From the very first page, I found myself completely enthralled by the enigmatic tale unfolding before me. The author's eloquence in painting vivid scenes and evoking powerful emotions made it impossible to put the book down. Each chapter unraveled a new layer of mystery, creating a sense of anticipation and wonder that kept me eagerly turning the pages.
One of the novel's greatest strengths lies in its cast of characters, who are flawlessly crafted and profoundly relatable. They breathe with life, each possessing their own struggles, desires, and vulnerabilities. I formed a deep connection with the protagonist, whose journey through the ether was not only an exploration of the external world but also a profound introspection of the human condition. The supporting characters, too, left a lasting impression, with their nuanced personalities and intricate relationships adding depth and authenticity to the story.
Blake's writing style is simply sublime. The prose flows effortlessly, carrying the reader along a river of emotions and introspection. The author's ability to convey intricate thoughts and profound concepts in such a beautiful and accessible manner is a testament to their exceptional talent. Every sentence is meticulously crafted, each word carefully chosen to create a melodic symphony that resonates long after the final page is turned.
"Alone With You in the Ether" is a true testament to the power of storytelling. It explores themes of love, loss, identity, and the complexities of the human experience with unparalleled depth and sensitivity. Olivie Blake's ability to balance introspection and action, emotion and suspense, is masterful, resulting in a book that is as thought-provoking as it is entertaining.
In conclusion, "Alone With You in the Ether" is a literary gem that deserves the highest praise. Olivie Blake's exceptional storytelling, well-developed characters, and enchanting prose make this novel an unforgettable reading experience. If you are seeking a captivating journey that will transport you to the depths of the human soul and leave you yearning for more, then this book is an absolute must-read. Prepare to be spellbound from beginning to end.
Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston
5.0
Red, White & Royal Blue – Honestly, I don’t know where to start. This cute, fluffy, LGBT romance absolutely broke me. I didn’t know I would be a fan of enemies to lovers until it slapped me in the feels. From beginning to end Casey had me grinning from ear to ear and sitting on the edge of my seat hoping that Alex and Henry would just get together already. The only complaint I have is that it had to end.
From the moment that Alex meets Henry, you can feel the tension between the two that is quite clearly the elephant in the room from the outset. The chemistry the pair have when they are together is unmatched by any romance I have read before and left me in tears at so many points (yes as cold as my heart is it can be melted every so often). The fact that Alex was so blissfully unaware of what his feeling for Henry meant but Henry was constantly waiting for him with such hope is something that I’m sure every reader is familiar with. Despite being from wealthy families within the public eye, this story is, at its core, one of hope that readers can relate to in one way or another. Whether it be breaking away from the norms in family traditions, coming out or even just being with someone your family don’t particularly like, Red, White & Royal Blue for many young readers with be the catalyst that begins a new journey for them into living life in their own way.
Romance aside the character development within this novel is stunning. I feel like the different POV’s throughout were perfectly equal where I was able to get to know each character through their own story. Casey also tackles issues with racism, gender, responsibility, and ethics and succeeds brilliantly and with such taste that it is subtle yet bold. It will leave you laughing, crying, laughing, and wishing it will never end. To say I have a new favourite book is an understatement! I will never stop recommending this book and therefore will secure its space as my first 5-star read.
From the moment that Alex meets Henry, you can feel the tension between the two that is quite clearly the elephant in the room from the outset. The chemistry the pair have when they are together is unmatched by any romance I have read before and left me in tears at so many points (yes as cold as my heart is it can be melted every so often). The fact that Alex was so blissfully unaware of what his feeling for Henry meant but Henry was constantly waiting for him with such hope is something that I’m sure every reader is familiar with. Despite being from wealthy families within the public eye, this story is, at its core, one of hope that readers can relate to in one way or another. Whether it be breaking away from the norms in family traditions, coming out or even just being with someone your family don’t particularly like, Red, White & Royal Blue for many young readers with be the catalyst that begins a new journey for them into living life in their own way.
Romance aside the character development within this novel is stunning. I feel like the different POV’s throughout were perfectly equal where I was able to get to know each character through their own story. Casey also tackles issues with racism, gender, responsibility, and ethics and succeeds brilliantly and with such taste that it is subtle yet bold. It will leave you laughing, crying, laughing, and wishing it will never end. To say I have a new favourite book is an understatement! I will never stop recommending this book and therefore will secure its space as my first 5-star read.
The Luminaries by Susan Dennard
adventurous
dark
emotional
hopeful
mysterious
tense
fast-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? No
5.0
The Luminaries by Susan Dennard is an absolute masterpiece that effortlessly weaves together elements of fantasy, adventure, and emotion into a breathtaking tale. From its character development to its intricate plot, this novel had me enthralled from the very first page and it is more than worthy to be an edition on my 5-star list.
Dennard's writing style is exquisite, creating a vivid and immersive world that I couldn't help but become completely engrossed in. Her attention to detail is commendable, painting a rich and atmospheric backdrop that sets the stage for countless surprises and revelations. One of the most remarkable aspects of The Luminaries is its cast of characters, each one uniquely crafted and with a depth that makes them come alive. From the tenacious protagonist to the enigmatic supporting characters, their individual journeys intertwine flawlessly, creating a web of relationships that kept me captivated throughout.
The plot of this novel is an actual work of art. Dennard expertly combines mystery and suspense with a touch of romance and magic. The story unfolds in such a way that every chapter unravels a new layer, pushing the boundaries of what I thought was possible. The intricate twists and turns kept me guessing until the satisfying conclusion, and I found myself wholly invested in the outcome of these characters' lives. The pacing in The Luminaries is superb, balancing the fast-paced action with quieter, contemplative moments. I appreciate Dennard's ability to maintain an engaging momentum that never falters, ensuring that my attention was held from beginning to end.
Overall, The Luminaries is an extraordinary piece of literature that deserves all the praise it receives. Susan Dennard’s incredible storytelling ability takes readers on a rollercoaster ride of emotions, leaving them wanting more. I cannot recommend this book enough to anyone who enjoys a captivating and immersive reading experience. I thoroughly look forward to reading “The Hunting Moon” (the second book in this series), when it comes out later this year in October.
Woom by Duncan Ralston
4.0
Duncan Ralston's Woom is a captivating and chilling novel that kept me on the edge of my seat from beginning to end. Ralston's ability to create an atmospheric world filled with tension and unease is commendable, and his storytelling skills are truly extraordinary.
The premise of Woom is highly intriguing, revolving around a fertility clinic where desperate couples seek the answer to their dreams of starting a family. Ralston delves deep into the psychological landscape of both the patients and the doctors, exploring the complex motivations and ethical dilemmas they face. The book masterfully weaves together intense suspense, dark secrets, and gut-wrenching revelations.
The character development in Woom is exceptional. Ralston expertly crafts multi-dimensional characters, making it easy for the reader to empathize and connect with them. Each character has their own distinct voice, flaws, and vulnerabilities, which adds authenticity to their actions and keeps the reader invested in their fates.
One of the aspects I greatly appreciated about Woom is the author's attention to detail. Ralston's descriptive prose paints a vivid picture, allowing the reader to fully immerse themselves in the creepy and unsettling world of the fertility clinic. The author's meticulous research is apparent, enhancing the plausibility of the events and making the story even more chilling.
The pacing of the novel is well-executed, with a steady build-up of suspense that keeps the reader guessing. Ralston skillfully combines moments of quiet introspection with heart-pounding action, creating a rollercoaster of emotions. I found myself unable to put the book down, eagerly turning pages to uncover the dark secrets lurking within the clinic's walls.
However, I would have liked to see more exploration of certain secondary characters and their storylines. While the main characters were fleshed out and compelling, some of the supporting cast felt slightly underdeveloped. Nevertheless, this minor gripe did not detract significantly from the overall enjoyment of the story.
In conclusion, Woom is a chilling and thought-provoking thriller that stands out from the crowd. Duncan Ralston's talent shines through in his ability to create an unsettling atmosphere, craft engaging characters, and deliver an engrossing narrative. Fans of psychological suspense and anyone looking for a gripping page-turner will undoubtedly find Woom to be a thrilling read.
The premise of Woom is highly intriguing, revolving around a fertility clinic where desperate couples seek the answer to their dreams of starting a family. Ralston delves deep into the psychological landscape of both the patients and the doctors, exploring the complex motivations and ethical dilemmas they face. The book masterfully weaves together intense suspense, dark secrets, and gut-wrenching revelations.
The character development in Woom is exceptional. Ralston expertly crafts multi-dimensional characters, making it easy for the reader to empathize and connect with them. Each character has their own distinct voice, flaws, and vulnerabilities, which adds authenticity to their actions and keeps the reader invested in their fates.
One of the aspects I greatly appreciated about Woom is the author's attention to detail. Ralston's descriptive prose paints a vivid picture, allowing the reader to fully immerse themselves in the creepy and unsettling world of the fertility clinic. The author's meticulous research is apparent, enhancing the plausibility of the events and making the story even more chilling.
The pacing of the novel is well-executed, with a steady build-up of suspense that keeps the reader guessing. Ralston skillfully combines moments of quiet introspection with heart-pounding action, creating a rollercoaster of emotions. I found myself unable to put the book down, eagerly turning pages to uncover the dark secrets lurking within the clinic's walls.
However, I would have liked to see more exploration of certain secondary characters and their storylines. While the main characters were fleshed out and compelling, some of the supporting cast felt slightly underdeveloped. Nevertheless, this minor gripe did not detract significantly from the overall enjoyment of the story.
In conclusion, Woom is a chilling and thought-provoking thriller that stands out from the crowd. Duncan Ralston's talent shines through in his ability to create an unsettling atmosphere, craft engaging characters, and deliver an engrossing narrative. Fans of psychological suspense and anyone looking for a gripping page-turner will undoubtedly find Woom to be a thrilling read.
Glitterland by Alexis Hall
4.0
Alexis Hall's Glitterland is a stunning and beautifully written novel that explores the complexities of love, mental health, and personal growth. With his remarkable prose and impeccable character development, Hall takes readers on an emotional journey that captures both the darkness and the shimmering hope of life.
Glitterland follows the story of Ash Winters, a brilliant and troubled writer who finds himself entangled in a passionate affair with the captivating and enigmatic Darian. Hall's portrayal of Ash's struggles with bipolar disorder is sensitive and deeply empathetic. His depiction of mental illness feels authentic, showcasing the highs and lows, the enthralling mania, and the crushing depression that Ash experiences.
The dynamic between Ash and Darian is intoxicating. Hall's writing flawlessly captures the chemistry and raw intensity between the two characters. The push and pull of their relationship, the vulnerabilities they expose, and the emotional journey they undergo together make for a gripping and heartfelt narrative.
Hall's writing style is nothing short of poetic. The vivid imagery and evocative descriptions bring both the glitzy world of London and the tumultuous landscape of Ash's mind to life. The prose is filled with passion, angst, and aching vulnerability, making it impossible to put the book down.
The supporting characters in Glitterland are equally compelling. From Ash's best friend, Niall, to the vibrant and complex personalities that populate the story, each character adds depth, authenticity, and a unique perspective to the narrative. The relationships between the characters are beautifully nuanced and contribute to the overall richness of the story.
One of the standout strengths of Glitterland is its raw and honest portrayal of mental health. Hall handles Ash's bipolar disorder with sensitivity, shedding light on the challenges faced by individuals living with mental illness. The book avoids romanticizing or stigmatizing these issues and instead offers a compassionate exploration of Ash's journey towards self-acceptance and finding balance.
However, some readers may find the story's pacing to be slow at certain points. The emphasis on introspection and the intricate exploration of Ash's psyche may not appeal to those seeking a fast-paced read. Nonetheless, for those willing to embrace the introspective nature of the book, the payoff is well worth the investment.
In conclusion, Glitterland is a thought-provoking and emotionally charged novel that tackles important themes with grace and sensitivity. Alexis Hall's writing is exquisite, capturing the highs and lows, the pain and the beauty of love and mental health. If you're searching for a profound and evocative story that will linger with you long after you've turned the last page, Glitterland is an absolute must-read.
Glitterland follows the story of Ash Winters, a brilliant and troubled writer who finds himself entangled in a passionate affair with the captivating and enigmatic Darian. Hall's portrayal of Ash's struggles with bipolar disorder is sensitive and deeply empathetic. His depiction of mental illness feels authentic, showcasing the highs and lows, the enthralling mania, and the crushing depression that Ash experiences.
The dynamic between Ash and Darian is intoxicating. Hall's writing flawlessly captures the chemistry and raw intensity between the two characters. The push and pull of their relationship, the vulnerabilities they expose, and the emotional journey they undergo together make for a gripping and heartfelt narrative.
Hall's writing style is nothing short of poetic. The vivid imagery and evocative descriptions bring both the glitzy world of London and the tumultuous landscape of Ash's mind to life. The prose is filled with passion, angst, and aching vulnerability, making it impossible to put the book down.
The supporting characters in Glitterland are equally compelling. From Ash's best friend, Niall, to the vibrant and complex personalities that populate the story, each character adds depth, authenticity, and a unique perspective to the narrative. The relationships between the characters are beautifully nuanced and contribute to the overall richness of the story.
One of the standout strengths of Glitterland is its raw and honest portrayal of mental health. Hall handles Ash's bipolar disorder with sensitivity, shedding light on the challenges faced by individuals living with mental illness. The book avoids romanticizing or stigmatizing these issues and instead offers a compassionate exploration of Ash's journey towards self-acceptance and finding balance.
However, some readers may find the story's pacing to be slow at certain points. The emphasis on introspection and the intricate exploration of Ash's psyche may not appeal to those seeking a fast-paced read. Nonetheless, for those willing to embrace the introspective nature of the book, the payoff is well worth the investment.
In conclusion, Glitterland is a thought-provoking and emotionally charged novel that tackles important themes with grace and sensitivity. Alexis Hall's writing is exquisite, capturing the highs and lows, the pain and the beauty of love and mental health. If you're searching for a profound and evocative story that will linger with you long after you've turned the last page, Glitterland is an absolute must-read.