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latoyadawson13's reviews
2914 reviews
Funny Story by Emily Henry
4.0
In her latest novel, Emily Henry once again showcases her talent for crafting richly developed romances that transcend the genre's conventions. "Funny Story" follows the delightful journey of Daphne and Miles, a pair whose dynamic is as hilarious as it is heartbreakingly poignant. While their individual growth and the evolution of their relationship are beautifully portrayed, I did find myself missing the usual emotional teary characteristic of Henry's work. Nevertheless, the charm and wit of the narrative make it a worthwhile read, even for those who may not shed a tear this time around. "Funny Story" is a captivating tale that effortlessly captures the complexities of love and life, deserving a spot on every romance enthusiast's bookshelf.
These Burning Stars by Bethany Jacobs
4.0
"Bethany Jacobs' 'Burning Stars' offered an enjoyable reading experience that transitioned seamlessly into an engaging listen. While it took a bit of time for the story to grip me, once it did, the characters held me captive. I also felt gripped by the connections and relationships between characters. The timeline, however, proved a bit confusing at times, likely exacerbated by the narrative spanning a decade. Nevertheless, I wholeheartedly recommend this read in either format, though opting for the physical book may provide a more linear experience. I eagerly await diving into next installment of this series.
If We Were Villains by M.L. Rio
3.0
"If We Were Villains" by M.L. Rio presents a unique take on mystery fiction, with its structure mimicking that of a play, complete with acts, scenes, and dialogue that captivate. The author's adept handling of this theatrical framework is commendable and adds an enchanting layer to the narrative.
However, while the structural innovation shines, the characters fall short of leaving a lasting impression. With the exception of Oliver, they lack depth and fail to evoke empathy or interest. Despite Rio's efforts to flesh out their backgrounds and personalities, they feel somewhat artificial.
Where the novel falters most noticeably is in its plot. The story often struggles to maintain momentum, resulting in stretches of tedium punctuated by moments of simplistic intrigue. The stakes, too, feel disappointingly low, with the reasoning behind the events feeling trivial and lacking in significance.
Ultimately, "If We Were Villains" may appeal to readers intrigued by its theatrical format, but those seeking compelling characters and a gripping plot may find themselves disappointed. While it has its moments, the overall experience is just passable, making it difficult to wholeheartedly recommend.
However, while the structural innovation shines, the characters fall short of leaving a lasting impression. With the exception of Oliver, they lack depth and fail to evoke empathy or interest. Despite Rio's efforts to flesh out their backgrounds and personalities, they feel somewhat artificial.
Where the novel falters most noticeably is in its plot. The story often struggles to maintain momentum, resulting in stretches of tedium punctuated by moments of simplistic intrigue. The stakes, too, feel disappointingly low, with the reasoning behind the events feeling trivial and lacking in significance.
Ultimately, "If We Were Villains" may appeal to readers intrigued by its theatrical format, but those seeking compelling characters and a gripping plot may find themselves disappointed. While it has its moments, the overall experience is just passable, making it difficult to wholeheartedly recommend.