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jnbluvs's reviews
13 reviews
Part of Your World by Abby Jimenez
emotional
inspiring
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.5
AHHH this is the perfect love story. Reminded me of my own past relationship except this one ended so much better. Truly healed something inside of me and made me believe in love again.
Mad Honey by Jodi Picoult, Jennifer Finney Boylan
emotional
informative
reflective
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.25
The change of perspective from the different narrators as well as switch from flashback to present made for a choppy read. That said, the novel does a great job at character development and expertly conveys the depth and occasional hypocrisy of human emotion.
I Hope This Doesn't Find You by Ann Liang
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
2.5
A cute little academic enemies to lovers. Nothing really extraordinary about it but it was fun to read :)
I Who Have Never Known Men by Jacqueline Harpman
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.25
Such good quotes. This book has some one-liners that really make you rethink your entire existence. It is a beautifully bleak story that teaches you how to be grateful for the things you have—even things are simple as understanding the idea if time and how to express emotion.
Never Lie by Freida McFadden
3.0
TLDR w/out spoilers: The book is good for suspense/mystery beginners who tend to miss plot holes and dialogue/narration inconsistencies. Also okay if you want a quick read for the middle of the night (you are likely to not care about or will miss the massive problems this book has when read in the daytime). If you are the mystery reader who notes every detail in hopes of getting the plot twist before the end, don’t bother reading this. I can almost guarantee you will not get the plot twist because it makes no sense based on the information provided in the first 80% of the book.
SPOILERS:
Reading this book was both tedious and annoying because the plot moves slow and fast in the wrong ways. The information presented from the very beginning of the novel presents many inconsistencies once the reader finds out the “plot twist”.
Examples:
1) From the very beginning, the MC acts as if she’s never been in the psychiatrist’s house, yet she’s the killer? It’s understandable that it’s not presented in her verbal, out-loud dialogue with Ethan, but the majority of the book, which is told from her perspective, shows no sign of her acknowledging that she’s been in the house before mentally even though she’s in fact been in it MULTIPLE TIMES (at least once a week for 2 years) and knows very well who Adrienne Hale is and how she died.
2) There are times when Freida has egged us to believe Ethan could have been the killer yet then entirely dismisses that idea at the end. There are multiple instances where Ethan shows he is familiar with the house although never actually stepping foot inside. He’s able to find where the heating unit is quickly, isn’t afraid of sleeping in the bedrooms (even though MC, who has been in the house, is) and pays no attention to the movements and quirks of the house that the MC brings up time and time again. Adrienne’s client EJ and Ethan are described to have very similar features (blonde hair with highlights, shorter than the average male) and even personality wise are described similarly as EJ has a bad temper, is a wine connoisseur and raises threats and MC mentions how Ethan has lost his temper at his employees before and can get defensive easily). Ethan also jumps at the prospect of buying the house although unafraid that the murderer of the prior owner hasn’t been identified or arrested, making it plausible that he in fact knows who the perpetrator is, leaving him unafraid). Through the transcript of Hale’s tapes, EJ has issues with his parents and has joked about them dying. What’s revealed to us about Ethan’s past? Nothing aside from the fact that HE HAS NO PARENTS AND REFUSES TO OPEN UP ABOUT IT. This plot line would have strung together so much better than the MC being PL from the tapes. I feel entirely robbed.
Three stars feels generous at this point given the absolute hot mess this book was for anyone reading in between the lines (as any self-respected mystery/thriller reader SHOULD do); however it’s suspense did leave me reading til the end which i suppose counts for something.
SPOILERS:
Reading this book was both tedious and annoying because the plot moves slow and fast in the wrong ways. The information presented from the very beginning of the novel presents many inconsistencies once the reader finds out the “plot twist”.
Examples:
1) From the very beginning, the MC acts as if she’s never been in the psychiatrist’s house, yet she’s the killer? It’s understandable that it’s not presented in her verbal, out-loud dialogue with Ethan, but the majority of the book, which is told from her perspective, shows no sign of her acknowledging that she’s been in the house before mentally even though she’s in fact been in it MULTIPLE TIMES (at least once a week for 2 years) and knows very well who Adrienne Hale is and how she died.
2) There are times when Freida has egged us to believe Ethan could have been the killer yet then entirely dismisses that idea at the end. There are multiple instances where Ethan shows he is familiar with the house although never actually stepping foot inside. He’s able to find where the heating unit is quickly, isn’t afraid of sleeping in the bedrooms (even though MC, who has been in the house, is) and pays no attention to the movements and quirks of the house that the MC brings up time and time again. Adrienne’s client EJ and Ethan are described to have very similar features (blonde hair with highlights, shorter than the average male) and even personality wise are described similarly as EJ has a bad temper, is a wine connoisseur and raises threats and MC mentions how Ethan has lost his temper at his employees before and can get defensive easily). Ethan also jumps at the prospect of buying the house although unafraid that the murderer of the prior owner hasn’t been identified or arrested, making it plausible that he in fact knows who the perpetrator is, leaving him unafraid). Through the transcript of Hale’s tapes, EJ has issues with his parents and has joked about them dying. What’s revealed to us about Ethan’s past? Nothing aside from the fact that HE HAS NO PARENTS AND REFUSES TO OPEN UP ABOUT IT. This plot line would have strung together so much better than the MC being PL from the tapes. I feel entirely robbed.
Three stars feels generous at this point given the absolute hot mess this book was for anyone reading in between the lines (as any self-respected mystery/thriller reader SHOULD do); however it’s suspense did leave me reading til the end which i suppose counts for something.
Severance by Ling Ma
4.0
A book that expertly conveys the dangers of capitalism and consumerism. I find it astounding that the post-apocalyptic feel of the book, expressed in a severe and far-fetched yet somewhat plausible “this is what will happen if we go too far”
was actually represented in our world’s handling of Covid, even though this novel was written prior to the epidemic. It’s a true eye-opener that our actions are not only predictably harmful on a small and large scale, but that without a reprioritization of what truly matters in life, we are setting ourselves up for a bleak future.
Ling Ma’s "Severance" serves as a stark warning, highlighting how our relentless pursuit of profit and productivity can lead to devastating consequences. By juxtaposing the mundane routines of office life with the unraveling of civilization, "Severance" challenges us to prioritize human connection and resilience over mindless consumerism, offering a timely and thought-provoking critique of contemporary society.
was actually represented in our world’s handling of Covid, even though this novel was written prior to the epidemic. It’s a true eye-opener that our actions are not only predictably harmful on a small and large scale, but that without a reprioritization of what truly matters in life, we are setting ourselves up for a bleak future.
Ling Ma’s "Severance" serves as a stark warning, highlighting how our relentless pursuit of profit and productivity can lead to devastating consequences. By juxtaposing the mundane routines of office life with the unraveling of civilization, "Severance" challenges us to prioritize human connection and resilience over mindless consumerism, offering a timely and thought-provoking critique of contemporary society.
Caraval by Stephanie Garber
[no spoilers]
If you’ve ever heard or love the “he’s just playing games with you” trope, or are a huge mystery/fantasy fan, this book literally couldn’t be more perfect for you. This series, following two girls who magically enter the world of Caraval, a game where the lines between reality and fiction are blurred leaves you wanting more after each twist and turn. This novel also infuses a touch of magic into everyday life and provides reflective take-away commentary and morals that leave you wondering if you’ve been living life incorrectly (in the best way). It’s definitely captivating, but lacks a little bit of zhuzh that could be mended with deeper exploration of secondary characters or an even more intricate plot. Nevertheless, it remains a solid and enchanting read that leaves a lasting impression. Remember, it’s all a game, or is it?
4.0
[no spoilers]
If you’ve ever heard or love the “he’s just playing games with you” trope, or are a huge mystery/fantasy fan, this book literally couldn’t be more perfect for you. This series, following two girls who magically enter the world of Caraval, a game where the lines between reality and fiction are blurred leaves you wanting more after each twist and turn. This novel also infuses a touch of magic into everyday life and provides reflective take-away commentary and morals that leave you wondering if you’ve been living life incorrectly (in the best way). It’s definitely captivating, but lacks a little bit of zhuzh that could be mended with deeper exploration of secondary characters or an even more intricate plot. Nevertheless, it remains a solid and enchanting read that leaves a lasting impression. Remember, it’s all a game, or is it?
Legendary by Stephanie Garber
4.0
TLDR w/out spoilers:
While the first book of this series was from Scarlett Dragna’s perspective, this one is written from the viewpoint of her younger sister, Tella Dragna. Although Tella was able to help her and Scarlett escape from their father, she made a deal with the devil and now has to deliver. While she attempts to give her unknown criminal helper what they desire, she finds herself needing to play the game and sacrifice her life to obtain what he desired. Along the way, she is the subject of a love triangle, faces potential heartbreak and also potential death. And of course, it wouldn’t be a Caraval story without secrets revealed and a journey self-exploration that requires wholehearted sacrifice. If you’ve read the first, read the second and watch as your face morphs into shock, amusement, denial and so much more.
SPOILERS:
This review is going to be way more casual than the first, but here are my thoughts. Dante is Legend (no surprise) but what I AM surprised about is how much I like Jacks. This must be toxic. I love the whole idea that his one weakness is his one true love and UGH it’s just so romantic in an otherworldly way. definitely gives enemies to lovers vibe and at this stage, hoping jacks x tella happens and not legend x tella. BECAUSE WHY WOULD HE LEAVE HER IN THE SNOW ON THE STEPS!! unforgivable. After all, “Every good story needs a villain. But the best villains are those you secretly like”. This book was so much better in terms of pacing but wish we had more Scarlett & Julian content and that more of the backstory was covered prior to Legendary so it didn’t feel forced. Still good though!
While the first book of this series was from Scarlett Dragna’s perspective, this one is written from the viewpoint of her younger sister, Tella Dragna. Although Tella was able to help her and Scarlett escape from their father, she made a deal with the devil and now has to deliver. While she attempts to give her unknown criminal helper what they desire, she finds herself needing to play the game and sacrifice her life to obtain what he desired. Along the way, she is the subject of a love triangle, faces potential heartbreak and also potential death. And of course, it wouldn’t be a Caraval story without secrets revealed and a journey self-exploration that requires wholehearted sacrifice. If you’ve read the first, read the second and watch as your face morphs into shock, amusement, denial and so much more.
SPOILERS:
This review is going to be way more casual than the first, but here are my thoughts. Dante is Legend (no surprise) but what I AM surprised about is how much I like Jacks. This must be toxic. I love the whole idea that his one weakness is his one true love and UGH it’s just so romantic in an otherworldly way. definitely gives enemies to lovers vibe and at this stage, hoping jacks x tella happens and not legend x tella. BECAUSE WHY WOULD HE LEAVE HER IN THE SNOW ON THE STEPS!! unforgivable. After all, “Every good story needs a villain. But the best villains are those you secretly like”. This book was so much better in terms of pacing but wish we had more Scarlett & Julian content and that more of the backstory was covered prior to Legendary so it didn’t feel forced. Still good though!
Finale by Stephanie Garber
3.0
TLDR w/out spoilers: Two sentences sums it up: not the best ending, but acceptable. Read for closure, that’s all.
SPOILERS:
This book was good and bad in multiple ways. I like that we get to see perspective from both Dragna sisters, but it made the plot confusing as each faced their own trials and tribulations. There was too much inner monologue from Tella and so much of the story was just her dreams and love triangle versus the clearly conveyed large-scale problem that was although acknowledged as severe, wasn’t acted on in a way that reflected that feeling. Julian and Scarlett continue to be my favorite couple and the glove scene at the end was the cherry on top. Possibly the cutest romantic thing I’ve ever read. On the flip side, Tella and Legend’s relationship feels rushed. Every time she begs him to love her or feel
something for her he denies her and then suddenly he switches up right before the end? It’s too unrealistic and feels like a forced plotline. What happens to Jacks?? They were tied together under his unbreakable spell and were supposed to spend the rest of their lives together but then it suddenly broke and she got with Legend? This book gave me a mix of “I want more” and “this is too much” all at once in a way that didn’t necessarily sit right with me. I think the ending had so much potential and while it was so close, it just didn’t make it. It reminds me of my favorite quote from
the book:
"Every story has four parts: the beginning, the middle, the almost-ending, and the true ending. Unfortunately, not everyone gets a true ending. Most people give up at the part of the story where things are the worst, when the situation feels hopeless, but that is where hope is needed the most. Only those who persevere can find their true ending.”
I feel as though the ending printed is the Dragna sisters’ almost ending. There should be more for Scarlett and Tella. I am happy Scarlett is happy with Julian but for the past three books she has become a woman with more spunk and defiance. Now she’s just taking the throne? A powerful yet limiting position (in regard to rebellion)? It feels as though it’s a step backward—not necessarily a bad option, just a safe one that doesn’t necessarily reflect Scarlett’s character growth over the trilogy. Tella’s written ending is unclear, but it’s provided that she’s off on another challenge with Legend. While this ending does reflect Tella’s character, it is too vague and she deserves more closure. Over the course of the trilogy she has been searching and searching for something or the other and making incredibly difficult sacrifices for those around her. I wish she had that “okay this is it” moment before she embarked on a new journey. For these reasons, the ending was okay at best.
SPOILERS:
This book was good and bad in multiple ways. I like that we get to see perspective from both Dragna sisters, but it made the plot confusing as each faced their own trials and tribulations. There was too much inner monologue from Tella and so much of the story was just her dreams and love triangle versus the clearly conveyed large-scale problem that was although acknowledged as severe, wasn’t acted on in a way that reflected that feeling. Julian and Scarlett continue to be my favorite couple and the glove scene at the end was the cherry on top. Possibly the cutest romantic thing I’ve ever read. On the flip side, Tella and Legend’s relationship feels rushed. Every time she begs him to love her or feel
something for her he denies her and then suddenly he switches up right before the end? It’s too unrealistic and feels like a forced plotline. What happens to Jacks?? They were tied together under his unbreakable spell and were supposed to spend the rest of their lives together but then it suddenly broke and she got with Legend? This book gave me a mix of “I want more” and “this is too much” all at once in a way that didn’t necessarily sit right with me. I think the ending had so much potential and while it was so close, it just didn’t make it. It reminds me of my favorite quote from
the book:
"Every story has four parts: the beginning, the middle, the almost-ending, and the true ending. Unfortunately, not everyone gets a true ending. Most people give up at the part of the story where things are the worst, when the situation feels hopeless, but that is where hope is needed the most. Only those who persevere can find their true ending.”
I feel as though the ending printed is the Dragna sisters’ almost ending. There should be more for Scarlett and Tella. I am happy Scarlett is happy with Julian but for the past three books she has become a woman with more spunk and defiance. Now she’s just taking the throne? A powerful yet limiting position (in regard to rebellion)? It feels as though it’s a step backward—not necessarily a bad option, just a safe one that doesn’t necessarily reflect Scarlett’s character growth over the trilogy. Tella’s written ending is unclear, but it’s provided that she’s off on another challenge with Legend. While this ending does reflect Tella’s character, it is too vague and she deserves more closure. Over the course of the trilogy she has been searching and searching for something or the other and making incredibly difficult sacrifices for those around her. I wish she had that “okay this is it” moment before she embarked on a new journey. For these reasons, the ending was okay at best.