justreaditalreadypod's reviews
475 reviews

The Phoenix Keeper by S.A. MacLean

lighthearted medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.75

I received this book through Illumicrate last year, and after months of it waiting patiently on my shelf, I finally gave it the attention it deserved. I've never read a "cozy fantasy" and wasn't sure what to expect, but what I found was a charming story filled with fantastical creatures, a heartfelt romance, and just enough intrigue to keep me engaged.

 

The premise of the book is both fantastical and refreshingly grounded. Aila, the protagonist, is the head phoenix keeper at a magical zoo dedicated to the conservation of mythical creatures. Aila is socially awkward, and her love life is awful - though she is majorly crushing on the hot dragon keeper, and why is she also somewhat attracted to the female griffon keeper who has been her sworn enemy since college? All Aila really cares about is her work and caring for her beautiful phoenix. She really wants to be approved to move a male phoenix to the conservatory to mate with the female phoenix. Doing so would be huge not only for her career but also for the conservatory.

 

When Aila's request gets approved, things begin to look up for her, but then Jacinda - her sworn enemy - is put in charge of helping Aila with the PR. There's also someone who has been poaching endangered species from the conservatories in the area. Could Aila's phoenix's be in jeopardy?

 

While the book is firmly rooted in the fantasy genre, Maclean cleverly situates it in a world that mirrors our own, making it accessible even for readers like myself who shy away from high fantasy's sometimes overwhelming complexity. Instead of plunging the reader into a sprawling, unfamiliar universe, Maclean invites us into a world where phoenixes, thunderhawks, mischievous dragons, and other magical beings exist, and there are zoos/conservatories that protect them.

 

From carnivorous kelpies to majestic griffins, Maclean brings her creatures to life with vivid descriptions and a clear love for mythology. The zoo feels like a character in its own right, full of secrets and surprises that give the book its charm. The phoenixes, with their radiant feathers and fiery temperaments, are, of course, the stars of the show, and Maclean's meticulous attention to their care and conservation lends a sense of authenticity to the story.

 

But this is more than just a book about magical creatures. At its heart, this is a story about connection - both with the creatures Aila cares for and the people around her. The relationship between Aila and Luciana, her former college rival and the griffin keeper at the zoo, is the emotional core of the novel. With her sharp edges and hidden vulnerabilities, Luciana is the perfect foil for Aila's earnestness, and their dynamic feels natural and well-earned. The romance is sweet and slow-burn, adding just the right amount of heart to the story without overshadowing the central plot.

 

I also liked that Aila's journey is as much about her personal growth as it is about saving the phoenixes. Her struggles with imposter syndrome, self-confidence, and asking for help felt deeply relatable.

 

That's not to say the book is without flaws. At times, the pacing slows, particularly during some of the zoo's day-to-day operations, which, while fascinating, can feel repetitive. And while the mystery is engaging, seasoned readers may find it a touch predictable. However, these are minor quibbles in an otherwise sweet and enjoyable read.

 

Overall, I enjoyed this one. While the stakes were low, the story was still enjoyable and went by pretty quickly despite a few slow spots. Whether you're here for the mythical creatures, the sweet sapphic romance, or the gentle mystery, there's something in this book for everyone.

Listen to Your Sister by Neena Viel

dark funny mysterious tense 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? Yes

4.25

I received an advance galley of this book courtesy of the publisher via NetGalley. All thoughts are my own.

 

If you were to throw a Grady Hendrix novel, Jordon Peele's movie, "Us," and a few episodes of "Stranger Things" into a blender, you would get this novel. I spent just as much time laughing as I did, being creeped out and wondering WTF was happening to this family of siblings. It's the perfect blend of psychological horror, social commentary, and familial drama. I'm still thinking about it.

 

The story centers on the three Williams siblings. Calla is the oldest. She's a 25-year-old woman burdened with the responsibility of caring for her 16-year-old brother Jamie after becoming his legal guardian. Dre, the middle child, has shirked much of his promise to help, leaving Calla to carry the load. But Calla is tired of making sacrifices and being the glue that holds her family together. She's also tired of the recurring nightmares that haunt her sleep. These dreams, which she calls The Nightmare, show her brothers dying in terrifying, inexplicable ways, and she feels powerless to stop them. The nightmare comes to a terrifying high one evening when Jamie is in the wrong place at the wrong time, and someone ends up dead. Calla and Dre pack up Jamie and drive from Seattle to Southern Oregon to wait for things to die down, but the cabin they picked from Airbnb is creepy AF. While they thought they were leaving the danger behind, they may have run toward a bigger evil waiting for them in the woods - something that will blur the lines between reality and nightmare.

 

What I loved most about this book was how it seamlessly intertwines its supernatural and psychological elements with important social issues. Viel doesn't shy away from addressing systemic racism or the immense burdens placed on Black women. Through Calla's perspective, we see the emotional and physical toll of constantly having to hold everything together, of being the family's protector, and of being denied the space to prioritize her own needs while trying to hold her space in a white world. The book also highlights how societal expectations and systemic inequities force Black women into roles of perpetual self-sacrifice - a theme that resonates deeply throughout the narrative.

 

The sibling dynamics are another highlight of the novel. Calla, Jamie, and Dre are vividly drawn characters, each with their own complexities, flaws, and strengths. Their interactions feel real, capturing the mix of love, frustration, and loyalty that defines many sibling relationships. Calla's resentment toward Dre's lack of involvement is palpable, as is her fierce protectiveness over Jamie (and, to an extent, Dr, even though he's grown and living on his own). Viel's nuanced portrayal of these relationships makes the stakes feel deeply personal, intensifying my investment in the siblings' survival.

 

The prose is sharp and evocative, balancing humor with horror in a way that feels both effortless and deliberate. The pacing of the story is another strength. Viel builds tension masterfully, alternating between moments of heart-pounding suspense and quieter, character-driven scenes that deepen our understanding of the siblings' bond. The transitions between these moments are seamless, ensuring the story never feels rushed or uneven. As I said earlier, I found myself laughing at something someone said and then suddenly terrified by what was happening on the page.

 

I both read an ARC and listened to an ALC of this one, and all three narrators did an outstanding job. They captured each of the siblings perfectly. If you prefer audiobooks, I would recommend this one.

 

This is a rare gem and one I'll be thinking about for a while. I'll likely buy a physical copy when it's released just to have it on my shelf so I can revisit it down the line. For anyone who loves a story that's equal parts chilling, thought-provoking, emotionally resonant, and has something important to say - this is a must-read. Neena Viel has crafted something truly special, and I, for one, can't wait to see what she writes next.

I Think They Love You by Julian Winters

emotional funny hopeful lighthearted 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

4.0

I received an advance galley of this book courtesy of the publisher via NetGalley. All thoughts are my own.

 

It seems like I need to be in a specific mood these days in order to enjoy a rom-com. I'm happy to say that this book hit the spot. It has the perfect mix of humor, heart, and second-chance romance. It also dives into themes of identity, family expectations, and the complexities of love. While it embraces familiar rom-com tropes, it does so with such charm that even the most trope-weary readers will find themselves swept up in Denz and Braylon's story.

 

The book follows Denzel "Denz" Carter, an ambitious 20-something who finds himself in a professional and personal bind. With his father announcing his retirement as CEO of their family's extremely successful event planning company, 24 Carter Gold, Denz and his sister are competing to be named the next CEO. Where his sister effortlessly pulls events together and is meticulous in her approach, Denz can be a little forgetful. If he wants this job, he's going to have to step up his game and prove himself worthy and responsible rather than flighty and non-commital. In a moment of panic, Denz lies about being in a stable relationship, only to realize he now has to produce a boyfriend to play the part.

 

Initially, Denz enlists his best friend and roommate, Jamie, to play the role of his significant other. But when Jamie bails, Denz is left with no choice but to turn to Braylon, his ex-boyfriend - the man who shattered his heart by leaving for England after graduating from college - leaving Denz alone, heartbroken and confused. But now that Braylon has returned, Denz feels like Bray owes him this, plus it could help Braylon with his own career goals, so - win-win. What follows is a whirlwind of fake dates, staged family events, and mounting sexual tension that makes it impossible for either man to ignore the unresolved feelings simmering between them.

 

The fake-dating and second-chance romance tropes are undoubtedly predictable, but I didn't mind them. In fact, that's part of the appeal of this book. Both Denz and Braylon are flawed but deeply relatable. Denz's struggles to prove his worth to his family while grappling with his own insecurities feel incredibly real. Similarly, Braylon's reasons for leaving - and his attempts to make amends - are explored with sensitivity, making him more than just a brooding romantic lead.

 

The supporting cast adds another layer of richness to the story. Denz's family is delightfully chaotic, from his no-nonsense father to his overachieving sister and nosey aunties. Their interactions - equal parts loving and cutthroat - paint a vivid picture of what it's like to grow up in a family where success is both an expectation and a pressure cooker. Winters captures these dynamics with humor and heart, making the family dynamic just as compelling as the romance.

 

One of the most endearing aspects of the novel is its unapologetic celebration of queer love. The relationship between Denz and Braylon feels authentic, layered, and deeply personal (and when the spice hits, it's just right). Their banter is sharp, their chemistry palpable, and their emotional connection undeniable. This authenticity elevates the romance, making it feel more rewarding and impactful than the standard fare you get when a straight person writes a gay romance. While it's true that love is love, the experience is definitely different.

 

Ultimately, this book is a reminder of why we turn to rom-coms in the first place. It's not just about the swoon-worthy moments (though there are plenty of those); it's about the joy of seeing characters learn, grow, and discover that they're deserving of love - in all its messy, complicated glory. Whether you're in the mood for a feel-good romance or simply looking for a story that celebrates queer love and Black joy, this book is a must-read. And if you're anything like me, you'll turn the final page wishing for your own Bray - and maybe a family as entertaining as Denz's.

The Darkest Child by Delores Phillips

emotional hopeful sad 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? Yes

4.5

Never have I read a book that is so devastatingly raw and powerful! Set in the racially segregated South of the late 1950s, it unflinchingly explores the brutality of abuse, the scars of systemic racism, and the unyielding resilience of a young girl who dares to dream of a better life.

 

The story follows thirteen-year-old Tangy Mae Quinn, the sixth of ten siblings born to Rozelle, a cruel and abusive mother whose mental health issues drive her to unspeakable acts of violence and control (like - seriously bad. She is quite possibly the worst mother I have ever laid eyes on). Tangy Mae, the darkest-skinned of her siblings, is seen as the least desirable in Rozelle's eyes, a fact Rozelle makes no effort to hide. Yet, Tangy Mae is also the brightest of her siblings, her intelligence and determination standing out in stark contrast to the despair and dysfunction that define her family's existence. Tangy is also the kindest of the children and often takes on the responsibility of looking out for her older and younger siblings, hoping for a better and brighter future for herself.

 

The novel's strength lies in its complex characters and unflinching honesty. Rozelle is a deeply flawed figure whose actions are monstrous, yet Phillips does not reduce her to a one-dimensional villain. Her beauty and light skin offer her social leverage. Still, her deeply rooted insecurities, paired with a traumatic past and mental health issues, manifest in the tyrannical rule she exercises over her children. Her exploitation of her children, whether by forcing them into labor or, more horrifically, prostitution, is hard to stomach but central to understanding the gravity of the challenges Tangy Mae and her siblings face. As the layers of Rozelle's history are revealed, readers are forced to grapple with the cyclical nature of trauma and the role societal pressures play in creating monsters like Rozelle.

 

On the other hand, Tangy Mae's character is the complete opposite of Rozelle, acting as a symbol of quiet resistance and hope. Her acceptance into the first integrated class at a local high school is not just a personal achievement but a radical act of defiance against her mother's wishes and the oppressive societal norms of Bakersfield, Georgia. Tangy Mae's journey is heart-wrenching yet inspiring as she navigates the perilous intersection of her mother's wrath and desire to hold Tangy back while also battling the systemic racism of the segregated South.

 

Tangy Mae's siblings, each with their own burdens and coping mechanisms, add even more depth to the narrative, illustrating the varying effects of Rozelle's abuse on her children.

 

 Sensitive readers beware: Trigger warnings abound in this book. Phillips does not shy away from depicting the physical, sexual, and emotional abuse endured by Tangy Mae and her siblings, nor does she gloss over the harsh realities of racism, substance abuse, and violence. For those who can endure its heavy themes, it offers a profoundly moving experience, but believe me when I say it's rough. There are no fairy-tale endings here, only the hope that Tangy Mae's determination will be enough to forge a better path for herself. My heart was heavy long after finishing this, and I still think about Tangy Mae - because you know she represents so many Black women.

 

This is a harrowing but essential read. It is not for the faint of heart, but for readers who can handle its weight, it is an unforgettable and profoundly moving exploration of resilience in the face of unimaginable hardship. Tangy Mae Quinn's story will stay with me for a very long time.

Clever Little Thing by Helena Echlin

dark mysterious slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

2.75

I listened to an advance copy of this book courtesy of Penguin Randomhouse Audio's influencer program. All thoughts are my own.

 

When I read the synopsis for this book, I was immediately intrigued by the premise. A sensitive, socially awkward child suddenly begins to exhibit eerie behaviors that mimic those of her recently deceased babysitter, leaving her mother spiraling into fear and suspicion that the child may be possessed. Sadly, I was left feeling a little underwhelmed and wondering why it all needed to go down the way it did.

 

The novel opens on a promising note, introducing us to Charlotte, a mother grappling with exhaustion from her difficult pregnancy and worry over her daughter Stella's strange transformation. The novel alternates between "Then and now", and all we know at the top of the book is that Charlotte has given birth, she is at some sort of wellness center post-birth, and she's worried about her other daughter, Stella.

 

We soon learn that Stella has been mirroring the deceased Blanka (her previous babysitter) in speech, preferences, and mannerisms. Stella is quite possibly on the autism spectrum, and her sudden change in temperament is striking. Things that used to set Stella off no longer bother her, she's lost interest in things that used to bring her joy, and she uses words and phrases that she never used, but Blanka used often. When Charlotte reaches out to Blanka's mother, Irena, and Irena begins to spend more time with Stella, Charlotte begins to wonder if maybe Irena is behind what is happening. This is all I'm comfortable sharing about the premise since digging any deeper would spoil the reveal, which I don't want to do.

 

For a novel dealing with themes of possession, I found it to be lacking in genuine tension or scares. Possession-based stories typically evoke a visceral sense of dread in me, but this one never fully delivered in that area. Instead, the narrative feels more subdued and introspective than suspenseful, which might appeal to some readers but left me feeling disconnected. A lot of this could be because I'm not a female or a mother, so I wasn't as invested in Charlotte's maternal fear because it's not something I've experienced.

 

On the other hand, I appreciated the novel's focus on motherhood and mental health, as well as how society often dismisses women's concerns as hysteria. Charlotte's husband, her healthcare providers, and even friends all think that her fear of another miscarriage and her coddling of Stella is getting to her, causing her to believe that Stella is possessed versus the fact that Stella is a growing child who is maturing and changing naturally.

 

The pacing was another issue for me. After a gripping start, the story slows down significantly, making it hard to maintain the initial momentum. Charlotte's internal struggles are interesting, but they never really changed and began to feel repetitive, bogging down the progression of the plot. I wanted more urgency and a greater sense of unpredictability.

 

The eventual reveal of why Stella begins to mirror Blanka was also a letdown for me. Without getting into spoilers, I found the explanation to be out of step with the tone of the rest of the book. It didn't fully resonate or feel as impactful as I had hoped. Instead of tying the narrative threads together in a satisfying way, it left me wondering why the author took an alleged possession approach in the first place.

 

On the plus side, I listened to the audiobook version and found Ashley Tucker's performance to be solid. Tucker gives each character a distinct voice, inflection, and accent, which makes the listening experience that much more engaging. That said, there were a few technical issues in the audio, such as noticeable background noise and some awkwardly spliced sentences, which slightly detracted from the overall production quality. Hopefully, these issues will be addressed before the audiobook's final release.

 

This isn't a bad book, but it's not one I'd revisit. It left me craving more suspense, tension, and a stronger payoff. That said, I recognize that not every book is for every reader. Fans of slower-paced, psychological narratives that blend elements of family drama and maternal paranoia with light supernatural themes may find more to appreciate here.

---

Content Warnings

Minor: Rape, Violence, and War

Murder in the Dressing Room by Holly Stars

mysterious medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.0

I received an advance galley of this book courtesy of the publisher via NetGalley. All thoughts are my own.

 

You know I love my drag queens, so of course, I jumped at a chance to read an advance copy of this book. I will admit that I picked this up expecting a campy, over-the-top drag queen murder mystery filled with sass and humor, and I was surprised to find a more grounded and serious tone. This tonal shift threw me at first, and I was a little disappointed. That said, this isn't a flaw - this is the book the author intended to write, and I can't expect them to cater to my expectations.

 

The story centers on Joe, a reserved, non-binary hotel accountant who transforms at night into Misty Divine, a rising star in London's drag scene. Joe's dual life takes a dark turn when their mentor and drag mother, the fabulous Lady Lady, is found poisoned in her dressing room. The police are quick to cast suspicion on Misty and her fellow performers, dismissing their concerns, pronouns, and identities with an unsettling air of disdain. Frustrated by the systemic lack of care from law enforcement, Misty decides to investigate the murder herself, channeling skills gleaned from her time spent binge-watching CSI with her husband, Miles.

 

The strongest aspect of this book lies in its characters, especially Misty Divine. The author - a drag queen herself - does a wonderful job capturing the nuance of a character like Joe, who is caught between their reserved daytime self and their bold, unapologetic drag persona. Misty's transformation from a performer grieving the loss of her mentor to an amateur sleuth was fun to watch. The novel's depiction of the LGBTQIA+ community's struggles with institutional bias adds an emotional weight to the story, highlighting how queer individuals are often dismissed or disrespected by those in positions of power. The author doesn't shy away from depicting these moments, which makes the novel feel authentic and resonant.

 

That said, while I appreciated the novel's themes and character work, the pacing left something to be desired. For a murder mystery, the plot felt straightforward and, at times, predictable. While there's nothing inherently wrong with a classic approach to the genre, I felt the narrative dragged (pardon the pun) in several places, slowing the momentum of the investigation. I also felt that the writing leaned heavily on exposition, often telling rather than showing, which sometimes made it difficult to feel fully immersed in the story.

 

Despite these critiques, there's plenty to admire here. The blend of the vibrant drag world with a murder mystery is a unique premise, and the story's exploration of identity, resilience, and systemic injustice elevates it beyond a simple whodunit. Misty Divine is a character who stays with you - her humor, insecurities, determination, and vulnerability shine even when the story struggles a bit.

 

While I didn't love it, I liked it well enough, and I'm curious to see what Holly Stars writes next. Misty Divine certainly has the potential to become a beloved amateur sleuth, and I'd love to see her in another case (which the ending alludes to) - perhaps one with a bit more camp and sparkle to match her vibrant stage presence. If you're looking for a mystery that offers more than just a clever plot - one that delves into the challenges of queer existence while celebrating the strength of chosen family - this book is worth your time.

The Block Party: A Novel by Jamie Day

mysterious medium-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

3.75

You know I love a book about suburban scandals, secrets, betrayals, and upper-middle-class families behaving badly - and this book had that in spades.

 

The book kicks off with a bang: someone has been allegedly murdered at a Memorial Day block party in an upper-crust neighborhood, and this is teased through cryptic posts on an online forum for the neighbors who live a few streets over. From there, the story rewinds a year to uncover the messy lives of Alton Road's residents and the events that led to the explosive end of an innocent get-together. Beneath the pristine lawns and annual block parties lies a world of infidelity, addiction, bullying, and long-held grudges. There's a voyeuristic thrill in watching these seemingly perfect lives unravel, and Day ensures that each deserved downfall is as satisfying as it is surprising.

 

The narrative alternates between two perspectives: Alex, a former lawyer turned divorce mediator battling an alcohol addiction, and her teenage daughter, Lettie, who is grappling with bullying and her own rebellious tendencies. Alex's chapters are written in the third person, offering a slightly detached yet insightful view of her rocky marriage, her struggle with alcoholism, and her attempts to navigate the complex dynamics of the neighborhood. On the other hand, Lettie's first-person perspective provides a raw, emotional lens on teenage angst, strained friendships, and the pressures of growing up in such a close-knit - and toxic - community.

 

The cast of characters is sprawling - there are a lot of rich people on the edge here - but they are well-drawn and contribute to the intrigue and tension that bubbles beneath the surface. Alex's sister, Emily, lives just down the street with her overly macho husband and their son Dylan, whose relationship with Sydney - Lettie's ex-best friend - adds another layer of complexity. Sydney's family, meanwhile, is on the brink of implosion, thanks to her father's addiction to drugs and sex workers, and her mother's growing desperation to hold onto her dignity as her marriage crumbles. Then there's Brooke, the mysterious widow whose husband recently died under suspicious circumstances during a cruise, and the new family on the block, who harbor their own set of secrets.

 

The author does a great job of weaving these storylines together. What's refreshing is that the book doesn't rely on gratuitous twists to keep the reader engaged. Instead, it offers a slow-burn journey filled with subtle revelations that feel earned in the end. The drama unfolds organically, each juicy secret and betrayal adding depth to the story without overshadowing the characters.

 

The book's structure - starting with the murder and then rewinding a year - works brilliantly to build tension. As the story progresses, every seemingly innocuous interaction and offhand comment takes on new significance. By the time the narrative catches up to the present, the stage is set for the puzzle pieces to fall into place, and the payoff is immensely satisfying.

 

If you love stories about flawed, privileged people whose perfect lives are anything but, then this is a book you should have on your radar. It's not just a thriller; it's a sharp, witty, and deeply human look at the chaos lurking behind closed doors of the privileged. They say money can't buy you happiness, and nothing could be closer to the truth for the residents of Alton Road.

The Bone Season by Samantha Shannon

adventurous dark mysterious medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

When this book was first released over a decade ago, it immediately caught my attention. I bought it when it released but was a bit intimidated to make the jump. I know I've said this before, but it's worth saying again - fantasy and sci-fi intimidate me. I always spend the first several chapters thoroughly confused and trying to figure out the rules of the world. I know that eventually it clicks into place, but I'm the type of person who wants to understand things immediately, otherwise I get frustrated - it's an anxiety thing.

 

This Christmas, I received the stunning 10th-anniversary edition of the first four books in this series, and I decided it was time to give it a go. I finally dove in, determined to see what this story was all about.

 

And what a journey it turned out to be.

 

Set in the year 2059, the book is set in a dystopian future where the Republic of Scion has spent over 200 years eradicating "unnaturalness." In this world, clairvoyants - those with abilities to interact with the spirit world - are hunted, criminalized, and executed. Our protagonist, Paige Mahoney, is a dreamwalker, one of the rarest and most powerful clairvoyant types, with abilities that allow her to enter others' dreamscapes. As a member of London's clairvoyant criminal underworld, Paige works at an oxygen bar by day as a cover but also works as the right hand of the syndicate leader working to undermine the Scion regime.

 

When Paige is arrested after an accidental use of her powers results in murder, she's thrust into a new, horrifying reality. Transported to a secret penal colony controlled by the mysterious Rephaim - ancient beings with their own agenda - Paige discovers that Scion is only the surface of a much larger and more sinister threat. To survive and escape, she must navigate the politics of her captors, trust her mentor - an enigmatic Rephaite named Warden - and come to learn how to use her extraordinary abilities to their fullest potential.

 

As one would expect with this type of book, the rules, powers, and factions are dense. The author has created a staggeringly detailed world, complete with its own lexicon, societal structures, and complex history, which, for readers like me, is both a strength and a potential hurdle. I'll admit I was thoroughly confused for the first 35-40% of the book. The narrative throws you in without much hand-holding, and the sheer volume of new terms, concepts, and rules felt overwhelming. At times, I considered putting the book down, but I'm so glad I didn't.

 

The story began to click once I pushed past the initial confusion and let myself absorb the world at my own pace. It also helped that there was a glossary and other reference material I could turn to if I was totally confused. The book's second half was utterly gripping - I couldn't turn the pages fast enough.

 

The characters are what really kept me going. Paige is a compelling protagonist, fierce and resilient yet deeply flawed - she's like the Katniss Everdeen of Ireland/London - and I rooted for her the entire way. The supporting cast, from her syndicate allies in London to the enigmatic and morally ambiguous Warden, and her fellow clairvoyants who are now beholden to the Rephaim, all add depth and intrigue to the narrative. Even the villains - both human and otherwise - are multifaceted, with motivations that go beyond simple evil for evil's sake.

 

What I loved most, though, was the world itself. Once I settled into its rhythms, I became fascinated by the layers of history and oppression woven into Scion's regime. Shannon did a great job building this world - it's so intricate! The clairvoyant abilities, the Rephaim, and the relationships between the different factions all felt rich with potential. This is a story that promises to expand far beyond its first installment, and I can't wait to see how Shannon develops these elements in future books.

 

If you're considering picking up The Bone Season, my advice is this: stick with it. Yes, the world-building is dense, and yes, it can feel daunting at first, but the payoff is more than worth it. Now that I've finished the first book, I'm already itching to start the next one. I'm invested in Paige's journey, captivated by the world Shannon has created, and eager to see where this seven-book series will take us. If the first installment is any indication, it's going to be one hell of a ride.

The Favorites by Layne Fargo

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? Yes

4.0

I received an ALC of this book courtesy of the publisher via the PRH Audio influencer program. All thoughts are my own.

 

I was between books on New Year's Eve and was looking for an audiobook to pass the day while I did housework, and when I saw this on the PRH influencer app, I decided to jump in. It's written in a documentary-style format reminiscent of Taylor Jenkins Reid's Daisy Jones & The Six, and the audiobook features a full cast of characters, making it that much more enjoyable.

 

The novel centers on Katarina Shaw, a fiercely determined Olympic ice dancer, and her partner, Heath Rocha. The two met as teens, and Kat convinced him to be her ice dancing partner. The two grow up together with Kat doing everything she can to scrape together funds to pursue her passion even after her father dies. The two rise in ranks thanks to fierce determination on Kat's part, but the journey to the top isn't all smiles and roses for the couple; they face plenty of ups and downs. Their turbulent lives make for good headlines, and their undeniable chemistry makes them legends in the world of figure skating. But the closer you get to the top, the further you have to fall...

Through a series of interviews, flashbacks, and competing narratives, The Favorites unravels their story - from their childhood bond to the meteoric rise and devastating fall of their partnership. A decade after their shocking breakup at the Olympics, the resurfacing of their story through an unauthorized documentary forces Kat to step back into the public eye and take control of the narrative. In doing so, she will have to confront not only her legacy but also the ghosts of her past.

 

The writing is strong, and the parallels to Daisy Jones & The Six are undeniable: both novels use an oral history format to delve into the rise and fall of icons whose personal relationships were as mesmerizing as their professional accomplishments. This structure works particularly well with Kat telling a majority of the story, and then pieces are filled in by coaches, skating friends (and enemies), and others.

 

The characters are where The Favorites really shines. Kat is unyielding, unapologetic, and yet achingly vulnerable beneath her hard exterior. Her lower/middle-class upbringing often made me think of Tanya Harding. Her drive to succeed - often at the cost of her personal happiness - feels both admirable and tragic. Heath has his own struggles, but he deals with them by letting Kat take the reigns - controlling his destiny until he can't take it anymore. The author doesn't shy away from the messy complexities of their bond, which makes their story all the more engrossing.

 

That said, the novel isn't without its flaws. At over 400 pages, it starts to lose momentum in the final third. Some of the repetitive conflicts between Kat and Heath felt like they could have been trimmed, and the pacing slows just when it should be accelerating toward the climax. While Daisy Jones and the Six ended with a bittersweet reveal and a big emotional gut punch, I felt that this one kind of fizzled. I didn't care for how it was all tied up in the end. It felt a little anticlimactic.

As I mentioned earlier, the audiobook is great. Having a full cast of characters really added to the tone the author was going for. I sometimes had to remind myself that I was listening to a work of fiction, not actual people who had lived through these events.

 

If you're a fan of character-driven stories with a touch of glamour and grit, this is a captivating read that I would definitely recommend. While I personally felt it could have been tighter and more emotionally resonant, the story is entertaining and the characters are all great. If you're an audiobook lover, I would highly recommend adding this one to your list. The cast is stellar.

Our Winter Monster by Dennis Mahoney

dark 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? Yes

3.5

 

I received an advance galley of this book courtesy of the publisher via NetGalley. All thoughts are my own.

 

I know I have said this several times before, but I love a thriller or horror book set in the middle of nowhere during a snowstorm, and this book is exactly that. The author takes us into the frozen wilderness of Pinebuck, New York, where the tranquility of falling snow hides monstrous dangers - both literal and emotional. While it left me grappling with unanswered questions that slightly dulled its impact, its atmospheric setting, layered characters, and exploration of trauma make it a worthwhile read.

 

The story begins with Holly and Brian, a couple whose strained relationship sets the emotional tone for the novel. Attempting to mend their fractured bond, they embark on a trip to a remote village, only to be caught in a blizzard along the way. Brian swears he sees something lurking in the snowstorm ahead of them just before their car spins out of control, setting off a chain of events that intertwine their lives with a monstrous force lurking in the snow-covered town. Upping the mystery even more is that another young couple recently went missing from this same area. Is there something hunting young couples, and will the local sheriff be able to figure it out before her town turns on her?

 

The author's strength lies in his ability to craft an atmosphere that perfectly fits the story. The snowstorm becomes a character in itself - a silent, omnipresent force that amplifies the isolation and danger the characters face. The juxtaposition of the storm's quiet beauty and its deadly potential mirrors the tension in Holly and Brian's relationship. As a reader who loves novels set in remote, snowbound locations, I found Mahoney's descriptions mesmerizing. From the way the snow muffles sound to how it obscures danger, the author perfectly captures the sensory experience of being trapped in a blizzard. This setting heightens the stakes, making every decision the characters make feel urgent and dangerous.

 

Holly and Brian are compelling protagonists, their fractured relationship serving as the emotional core of the novel. Both are haunted by a shared trauma that happened a year earlier and watching them confront their pain while navigating the escalating dangers of the night is gripping. Their journey feels authentic, and I appreciated how Mahoney avoided simple resolutions, instead letting their growth emerge naturally through their harrowing experiences. As we slowly unravel the mystery around what hunts (and, to an extent, haunts) them, we also learn what got them here in the first place. The reveal is expertly paced and is a real highlight of the story.

 

The side characters also shine, each contributing to the story in meaningful ways. Cookie, the diner owner, brings warmth, humor, and humanity to a bleak situation, while Kendra, the town sheriff, adds layers of determination and vulnerability. Her past losses make her deeply invested in Holly and Brian's survival, and her perspective adds emotional weight to the narrative. Tanner, the loner who drives the snowplow, plays an understated but crucial role in the overall plot.

 

Despite several strengths, the book still left me feeling like something was missing in the end - and I can't quite place my finger on what. Perhaps it was the lack of resolution to certain plot points or the absence of a clear explanation for the creature's origin. While ambiguity can effectively maintain mystery, it was a little frustrating in this case. In the end, I found myself with too many unanswered questions, detracting from the story's emotional payoff.

 

Overall, this is an atmospheric, character-driven thriller that excels in its depiction of isolation, danger, and the ways in which we are forced to deal with unresolved trauma, making it more than just a monster story. If you enjoy novels set in snowbound locales with complex characters and a touch of the supernatural, this book is worth picking up. Just be prepared for an ending that may leave you pondering what lies beneath the surface of both the storm and the story.