katonthejellicoe's reviews
162 reviews

Libing-Isa by Malayo Pa Ang Umaga

dark emotional mysterious sad fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? N/A
• Loveable characters? N/A
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

One of the easiest five stars I've ever given. Creepy. Quiet. Unhinged. Terrifying. 11 scary stories. 11 crazy twists. MPAU should create more.

Favorites:
Isa, Tatlo, Apat, Labing-isa

Alamat Book 1: Lam-ang: Philippine Mythology by Herbert de Leon

adventurous challenging dark informative tense fast-paced

4.5

"Paalam sa tahanang payapa at yapos ni Ina.
Salubungin mo ako alapaap at dumarating na araw.
Ang aking kalgaaw ay sumapit na."
- Lam-ang

Everyone who knows me is probably aware that I'm not a huge reader of fantasy—worse than that, of mythology. However, Filipino stories always pique my interest. So, I decided to give this one a try, and I’m truly glad I did. I mean, how can we overlook an ongoing series in the contemporary era that retells Philippine mythology and epic stories?!

As mentioned, Alamat Book 1: Lam-ang is a reimagining of the Ilocano epic Biag ni Lam-ang, which centers on a chosen mortal fighting for the Dians and Poons against the Yawas in the human realm. Lam-ang is the first Lakandian, guided by his mother, Namongan; his father's best friend, Gibuan; and the spirit named Mangmankik. Together, they confront evil spirits, mythological monsters, and embark on quests to find his long-lost father.

I vaguely remembered the original material from my Philippine literature classes, so I had little reference to compare it to. Nevertheless, I believe in its potential to attract new readers and help them rediscover a folk tale that has long been forgotten—like I did. I appreciated how much I enjoyed this book. Despite being set in pre-colonial Philippines, the writing was accessible and easy to follow, reminiscent of the middle-grade fantasy books that I loved so much. The plot was engaging, and I enjoyed the mystery surrounding the quests. Furthermore, Lam-ang's character arc was complex and non-linear—annoying at times, but justifiable in my opinion. The same can be said for the other characters, though Namongan is probably my favorite.

Beyond these aspects, I loved how Filipino references extended beyond the lore. They were also evident in the familial and societal dynamics within and across their village, the Ilocos region, and the Samtoy nation. Gibuan's fatherly role toward Lam-ang and their complicated relationship is heartwarming. Namongan, as the incredible mother she is, consistently plays a significant role throughout the story. The supporting characters Lam-ang encountered on his journey add depth and complexity to the story. I teared up during that one scene where a character demonstrated incredible bravery. If you’ve read this book, I know you know.

Overall, I highly recommend this book if you enjoy Philippine mythology, epic heroes, chosen-one trope, and fantasy quests and adventures.

True North by Carina Gaskell

funny lighthearted reflective medium-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? Yes

3.5

"Every time he thought of the future, he saw only her. It didn’t matter where they were, where life took them, or who they became. He knew she was his True North, the one constant he would build his life around." - Carina Gaskell, True North

Overview:
After experiencing a heartbreak, Sophie finds herself on an island, living in isolation while building her dream business: a coffee shop. She swears off any romantic encounters, determined to focus on her goals. That is, until her meddling family sets her up with her charming neighbor, Archie, who unexpectedly opens the door to a second chance at love.

Review:
True North was short and sweet *cue Sabrina Carpenter*. It is filled with love—both in romantic and familial sense. I loved how, in just a limited number of pages, the author illustrates that love can come from unexpected places, whether we realize it or not. Among all the dynamics, my favorite was Sophie’s complex relationship with her younger sister, Narra, and her cousin, Layla. And as the eldest sister, I resonated with her experiences a lot.

I also really enjoyed the setting of the story. Dalisay reminded me so much of Boracay - which is a place I consider my second home. She perfectly captured its ambiance and made me want to pack my bags and fly to the island right away. Additionally, I appreciated how the narrative not only showcased the island's beauty but also addressed our responsibility as consumers for its sustainability. Hats off to the author for the environmental commentary!

However, there were some aspects of the story that didn’t quite work for me. The primary issue was the characterization of most of the characters. Because the novella is so brief, I felt I only got a surface-level understanding of them. I wanted to know more about why Narra was raised a certain way, what happened in Sophie’s past, and who Archie truly is. (I understand there’s a series accompanying this book, but I’m basing my review solely on this first book.) I also had some issues with the romance between Sophie and Archie. One, I’m not really a fan of the insta-love trope, and two, Archie came across as a bit alarming in the first few chapters.

Nevertheless, I recommend this novella to readers who enjoy short, whirlwind summer romances set in the Philippines—especially if you’re an eldest child who’s single and goal-driven (aka me, lol).

Disclosure: I received the digital copy from the author herself, but all opinions expressed in this review are my own and have not been influenced by the author nor publisher.

Miracle Creek by Angie Kim

dark emotional mysterious reflective sad medium-paced

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

The Embers of a Star by Vin Vosotros

emotional lighthearted mysterious reflective sad fast-paced

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

3.0

Funny Story by Emily Henry

emotional funny inspiring lighthearted reflective relaxing sad medium-paced

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

"All those moments throughout the days, weeks, months that don't get marked on calendars with hand-drawn stars or little stickers. Those are the moments that make a life. Not grand gestures, but mundane details that, over time, accumulate until you have a home, instead of a house. The things that matter. The things I can't stop longing for." ― Emily Henry, Funny Story

Overview:
Daphne Vincent, a practical and organized children's librarian, is on the brink of achieving her dream life—a perfect husband, a lovely house, and her ideal job—until her fiancé, Peter, reveals he’s in love with his childhood best friend, Petra. With her plans and dreams in ruins, she decides to be practical and become roommates with Miles Nowak, a man who is her complete opposite—spontaneous and chaotic. In a hilarious twist, Miles turns out to be Petra’s ex-boyfriend.

Review:
Funny Story is, without a doubt, Emily Henry's funniest book to date. I found myself laughing out loud or chuckling at the witty exchanges between Miles and Daphne, Ashleigh and Julia's quirky yet endearing personalities, and even Peter and Petra's outrageous life choices (like, what do you mean they invited their exes?!).

Yet, the story also delves into raw, vulnerable, and emotional territory. The characters were well-developed and multi-dimensional—most notably Miles Nowak. (He may be my favorite male lead in all her books.) Flawed, chaotic, and too kind for his own good (sounds like a classic people-pleaser, right?), he was also charming, loving, and a walking ball of sunshine. Daphne, on the other hand, is a planner—almost rigid, cynical, and guarded—yet she yearns for belonging and connection, making her impossible not to love.

In true Emily Henry fashion, these characters took me on an emotional rollercoaster that only she can deliver. To no one’s surprise, I absolutely loved this book. Beyond its romantic elements, it prompted deep self-reflection on what it truly means to love someone while not being with them; on how it’s human to crave belonging and companionship; and on how to accept someone for who they are, especially when they fuck up and struggle to love themselves.

Ahhhh, if only I had enough words to fully express how this book led me on such a vulnerable journey. But for now, this review will have to suffice.

My Lovely Wife by Samantha Downing

dark mysterious tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? N/A
• Loveable characters? No
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

For the win by Catherine Dellosa

inspiring lighthearted reflective fast-paced

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

4.0

I've read the first fifty pages in three days (I think I was nursing a reading slump when I started this one) and finished the rest of the book in a few hours - which goes to show that you can definitely read this in one-sitting.

To simplify, this is a heartwarming, game-inspired coming-of-age story about two best friends, Nat and Lena, as they navigate complicated situations in both their friendship and personal lives.

If there's one lesson that I've learned while reading this book, it is to never assume the concept of the story by its blurb! I was hesitant to read this because I thought it was a young adult romance between gamers, and though there's nothing wrong with it, I've long accepted that it's a genre that I've already outgrown. Hence, when I reached its conclusion (and read the author's note), it warmed my heart in so many ways. True, it has romantic elements, but surprisingly, it wasn't a love story after all.

What I loved most about this book was the refreshing take on young love, specifically Nat's experiences that could resonate to many young adult readers. I also admired how the author wrote each character with thoughtfulness and complexity (i.e. how Lena can be both goal-driven and opportunistic; or how Nat might be the greenest of the flags but can be irrational and self-centered). The writing—and the plot, by extension—was simple, yet it was impactful; and it carries life lessons that can serve as reminders for us all, whether we're young or young-at-heart.

I highly recommend this for readers who like quick, light yet heart-tugging YA story! Or if you like NPC games, too. :)

The Philippines Is Not a Small Country by Gideon Lasco

hopeful informative inspiring reflective fast-paced

4.5

My initial questions while reading this book were, "Why isn’t this part of the required reading in school? Why are we not dissecting the essays compiled in this tiny white book? And why aren’t we talking more about this?"

The Philippines is Not a Small Country is a collection of short essays that gives us a hundred of reasons why, indeed, our country is not so small after all. From historical and anthropological background to cultural and societal norms in both traditional and modern contexts, Lasco have explored it all. The writing was easy, accessible, and digestible to any types of readers (whether you read or like non-fiction or not), and yet it offers depth and provokes one's thoughts and beliefs.

Personally, there were many essays that put me in deep thought and a few that hit home. However, as is common with literary compilations, there were some that either missed the mark or held my interest the least. Nevertheless, it's a book that I would definitely recommend to everyone. You can read this in one go or savor each essay and each part at your own pace (as I did).

Ipinanganak Akong Bakla At Ilan Pang Mga Akda by Gerald Gruezo

emotional funny mysterious reflective tense fast-paced

5.0

"At higit sa lahat, kung hindi siya sumakabilang-buhay, alam kong sa araw na magdesisyon akong ibuka ang pakpak ko, alam kong yayakapin niya ako at gagabayan sa paglipad patungo sa tunay na ako." - Gerald Gruezo, Ipinanganak Akong Bakla

Hindi pa man nailalabas ang libro, alam ko na agad na bibigyan ko ito ng 5 stars. At oo, bias ako dahil ang awtor na ito ay isa sa pinakamahalagang tao sa buhay ko. PERO - pagkatapos kong isara ang chapbook na ito, napagtanto ko na hindi naman pala kailangan ng bias para maipagmalaking si Gerald Gruezo ay isang mahusay na manunulat. Pinaluha ako ng unang dalawang sanaysay, tinakot ng sumunod na dalawa, at kinilabutan sa panghuling kuwento.

Nagsisimula pa lang si Gerald, pero buong-puso akong naniniwalang malayo ang mararating ng kanyang pakpak.

Proud ako sa'yo, Gerald the Author!