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karasbookshelf's reviews
219 reviews
Topics of Conversation by Miranda Popkey
1.0
A 2 star was generous for me. This book narrates the authors conversations on sexuality, parenthood, dating, abuse, and more. There are very heavy topics in this book, which is why I was initially drawn to it, but the execution of it was confusing, difficult to follow, and not an easy read. I found myself skimming most of it due to unnecessary details and antidotes. On top of all of this, I was very distracted by the stream of consciousness writing with improper sentence structure and punctuation (I didn’t realize how much that mattered to me haha). I feel like I know people who would probably really appreciate this book, but it just wasn’t the style for me. Despite the writing though, I did appreciate the feminist conversations. I thought it shed light on many unspoken issues women face today and allowed room for thought.
The Dutch House by Ann Patchett
5.0
Beautifully written, character driven novel about two siblings with an unbreakable bond. The Dutch House comes to life in this novel telling its story of the multiple families who have lived there and their bonds with each other. This book had a strong sense of nostalgia, and I found myself thinking of my childhood often. Highly recommend listening to on audio. Tom Hanks is incredible!
Get a Life, Chloe Brown by Talia Hibbert
2.0
This book just didn't work for me the way I thought it would. It seemed like everyone loved it from all of the reviews I saw, but I just didn't feel the same. I didn't feel like I connected with the characters well, as many of their statements were melodramatic, superfluous, and just way too over the top. Both characters honestly reminded me of Giannina from Love is Blind. Everything was just overly dramatic and unrealistic. This book did have good representation (fibromyalgia, LGBTQA+, interracial couple) which I appreciated, but overall it just wasn't for me.
The Final Empire by Brandon Sanderson
4.0
I FINALLY FINISHED A BOOK. This took me a while to get through mainly because I don’t think fantasy is my preferred genre, but wow this story packs a punch. I could not put it down in the last 200 pages. Sanderson’s writing is so captivating. Great world building, character arcs, and relationships. Wouldn’t say no to reading the next in the series.
Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens
5.0
I loved this book. Absolutely loved it. The imagery in this book is breathtaking and beautiful. I grew to have such a love of the marsh and reading about it. Kya was such an interesting character as well. I felt a personal connection and a protectiveness over her throughout the story. Her vulnerability was palpable and I wanted nothing more than for someone to protect her. I devoured this book and couldn’t give it less than a 5 star. Well done!
The Tales of Beedle the Bard by J.K. Rowling
4.0
5 stars for the audio book! - if you love Harry Potter, this is such a great little listen. It’s only about an hour and a half long with amazing sound effects, audio, and a full cast. Loved it!
Josh and Hazel's Guide to Not Dating by Christina Lauren
3.0
It was cute! I actually laughed out loud at some parts. Hazel was such a spunky and eccentric character with great humor. Super quick read as well! It wasn’t a must-read, but if you like a cute romance, go for it.
Turtles All the Way Down by John Green
4.0
3.5 stars. I feel like 15 year old me would have thought this to be the best book I had ever read. I saw glimpses of myself as a teenager in Aza. The portrayal of anxiety is so real, and although my anxieties are not the same as hers, the feelings are. I wasn’t a huge fan of the plot, but I really appreciated the writing - there were some beautiful, hard hitting quotes in here.