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laurel00's reviews
319 reviews
Extasia by Claire Legrand
dark
tense
3.5
I think, inevitably, I was going to be comparing this to Sawkill Girls, and I also think that, considering what fond feelings I have for that book, it was ultimately the downfall of Extasia for me. There were some very high expectations and it sadly fell flat in quite a few places.
I really do love the premise as well as the ideas, and not just the main plot, but a lot of the story and character choices that Legrand makes throughout the narrative. That being said, I think it overall just didn't really land for me. I don't know if I ever really got into it; I appreciated the story on a surface level, but I was waiting for a deeper, more personal connection to my actual reading experience and it just... never got me there.
I also really do think it's about 100 pages too long. I could tell Legrand had a lot of ideas and I don't think there was anything that didn't fit in the book per se, I just don't think the story needed all of it. There were definitely some chapters that I think could have been cut out while still getting the message across to the reader. And I'm not saying that a long book is inherently bad, but because I was never truly invested in the story, the length made it feel like the whole thing was just dragging on.
There were definitely some interesting characters in the novel and a lot of great questions regarding morality and the violence of man and whether evil is learned or inherent to someone's personhood. [I just wish the book hadn't gone the route of total forgiveness. Not that forgiveness is bad or that a young adult audience shouldn't learn about it... but I think in this case specifically, with all the trauma the main character suffered and endured, she should have been allowed to sit in her anger for a bit longer. I wasn't a huge fan of the idea that people's bigotry is learned and rooted in their fear of the unknown, and that you must give them the opportunity the change their behaviour once they do discover the truth since they deserve a second chance at redemption. Of course you could argue that there is some truth there, and I do appreciate that Legrand tried to include some nuance to her overarching message. But it did really irk me, in this specific case, that a lot of the violent religious bigots never actually really suffered any personal consequences. (hide spoiler)]
I do think there are some people who would enjoy this book. The sapphic yearning is incredible and it's an interesting look into the relationship between religion, womanhood, and queerness. But I was expecting a lot more from it, so I'm a bit disappointed.
I really do love the premise as well as the ideas, and not just the main plot, but a lot of the story and character choices that Legrand makes throughout the narrative. That being said, I think it overall just didn't really land for me. I don't know if I ever really got into it; I appreciated the story on a surface level, but I was waiting for a deeper, more personal connection to my actual reading experience and it just... never got me there.
I also really do think it's about 100 pages too long. I could tell Legrand had a lot of ideas and I don't think there was anything that didn't fit in the book per se, I just don't think the story needed all of it. There were definitely some chapters that I think could have been cut out while still getting the message across to the reader. And I'm not saying that a long book is inherently bad, but because I was never truly invested in the story, the length made it feel like the whole thing was just dragging on.
There were definitely some interesting characters in the novel and a lot of great questions regarding morality and the violence of man and whether evil is learned or inherent to someone's personhood. [I just wish the book hadn't gone the route of total forgiveness. Not that forgiveness is bad or that a young adult audience shouldn't learn about it... but I think in this case specifically, with all the trauma the main character suffered and endured, she should have been allowed to sit in her anger for a bit longer. I wasn't a huge fan of the idea that people's bigotry is learned and rooted in their fear of the unknown, and that you must give them the opportunity the change their behaviour once they do discover the truth since they deserve a second chance at redemption. Of course you could argue that there is some truth there, and I do appreciate that Legrand tried to include some nuance to her overarching message. But it did really irk me, in this specific case, that a lot of the violent religious bigots never actually really suffered any personal consequences. (hide spoiler)]
I do think there are some people who would enjoy this book. The sapphic yearning is incredible and it's an interesting look into the relationship between religion, womanhood, and queerness. But I was expecting a lot more from it, so I'm a bit disappointed.
The Dawnhounds by Sascha Stronach
adventurous
reflective
sad
tense
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
4.25
I can already feel my brainrot over these characters quickly developing oh my god...
Truly, I think "fascinating" is the best word to describe this novel. Stronach clearly has a wonderfully creative mind to being able to think of so many amazing concepts and then connect them all together in this beautiful Māori-inspired world. I love genre-bending books, and this was a perfect execution of sci-fi fantasy with a tinge of horror. The imagery in it is so cool and I would absolutely be able to reread this a dozen times over, while discovering something new every single time.
I also, of course, adored these character. I don't think you'll find a single queer person out there who doesn't love the found family trope, and this novel has it tenfold, with all of its beauty, comfort, diversity, and complexity. And I mean, come on... big-muscle sapphics... what more do I have to say to convince you to read this?
I also really do love books that feature main characters who aren't making the right choices at first, because it's so interesting to follow them through their journey as they slowly dismantle their expectations of themselves and the world to completely reorient their goals and priorities. I think the character arc for Yat was so well done, and it went down exactly the path that I was hoping for: realistic, but redeeming, and worth every step.
The one thing I will say, which is partly a personal issue: I was getting confused with the world building. I don't know if I could explain to someone, in great detail, the lore, the politics, the magic/science. I understood enough to be able to follow the story and still deeply connect to its characters, but there was a part of the experience that I think I missed out on, specifically because of the fact that I wasn't able to truly grasp some of the important elements.
All that being said, I do absolutely recommend this. There are some passages and scenes in the book that affected me deep in my soul, and I'm so excited for the sequel!
Truly, I think "fascinating" is the best word to describe this novel. Stronach clearly has a wonderfully creative mind to being able to think of so many amazing concepts and then connect them all together in this beautiful Māori-inspired world. I love genre-bending books, and this was a perfect execution of sci-fi fantasy with a tinge of horror. The imagery in it is so cool and I would absolutely be able to reread this a dozen times over, while discovering something new every single time.
I also, of course, adored these character. I don't think you'll find a single queer person out there who doesn't love the found family trope, and this novel has it tenfold, with all of its beauty, comfort, diversity, and complexity. And I mean, come on... big-muscle sapphics... what more do I have to say to convince you to read this?
I also really do love books that feature main characters who aren't making the right choices at first, because it's so interesting to follow them through their journey as they slowly dismantle their expectations of themselves and the world to completely reorient their goals and priorities. I think the character arc for Yat was so well done, and it went down exactly the path that I was hoping for: realistic, but redeeming, and worth every step.
The one thing I will say, which is partly a personal issue: I was getting confused with the world building. I don't know if I could explain to someone, in great detail, the lore, the politics, the magic/science. I understood enough to be able to follow the story and still deeply connect to its characters, but there was a part of the experience that I think I missed out on, specifically because of the fact that I wasn't able to truly grasp some of the important elements.
All that being said, I do absolutely recommend this. There are some passages and scenes in the book that affected me deep in my soul, and I'm so excited for the sequel!
Thistlefoot by GennaRose Nethercott
emotional
hopeful
reflective
sad
tense
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
5.0
Thistlefoot is, at its core, a story about memories: both individual and collective, the power of memories, as well as the importance that we must allot to them. And Nethercott did a perfect job of encapsulating all the heart-wrenching pain, the tragic hope, and the ultimate beauty of memory.
I absolutely adored the writing in this. Nethercott has a stunning talent; I could've tabbed every single line of this book and I would have something to say about each passage. There is so much depth to, not just her storyline and her characters, but the very essence of the novel. I was completely pulled into the book; I could see and feel everything that was happening as if the characters were sitting right next to me.
Nethercott also did a fantastic job of exploring how generational pain spreads and morphs throughout time, how fascism feeds on people's deepest fears and desires to convince them to become a pawn in a deadly game, how necessary it is to remember tragedies and why they must be passed down throughout history. I also was very happy to see Nethercott touch on monstrosity and queerness: a topic I see often explored in the horror genre, but was pleasantly surprised to find in a fantasy, folkloric novel. Without a doubt in my mind, I could read this story a hundred times over and discover something new every single time.
I also found the characters absolutely amazing. Both our main characters have such specific identities, they felt very fleshed out and realistic, and I loved both of their arcs. Following them through each of their journeys was a genuine pleasure (heartbreak and all), as well as seeing their relationship with one another shift and grow as they discovered more about themselves bit by bit.
And of course, I could not talk about this book without mentioning the titular character, the house itself: Thistlefoot. I fell in love with this character, and the chapters that were narrated by the house were the ones that touched me the most. The way that the reimagined Baba Yaga tale was laid out throughout the story was so effective. I admit that, for most of the book, I was expecting this to be a 4.5-star rating; I had pretty much settled on it in fact. But then, I got to the last 100 pages of the novel... and I simply could not stop crying. And not just crying—sobbing. Every time I flipped to a chapter with Thistlefoot as the narrator, I had to brace myself and clutch my box of tissues because I knew I was in for a devastating emotional rollercoaster. As I'm writing this review, I'm exhausted from all the weeping, and I can't believe I've managed to write something decent here, instead of drowning in a pool of my own tears.
Although this book is a little long and although it may take some time at first for you to really settle into the story, it is definitely worth every single page. A top read of mine this year, without a doubt.
I absolutely adored the writing in this. Nethercott has a stunning talent; I could've tabbed every single line of this book and I would have something to say about each passage. There is so much depth to, not just her storyline and her characters, but the very essence of the novel. I was completely pulled into the book; I could see and feel everything that was happening as if the characters were sitting right next to me.
Nethercott also did a fantastic job of exploring how generational pain spreads and morphs throughout time, how fascism feeds on people's deepest fears and desires to convince them to become a pawn in a deadly game, how necessary it is to remember tragedies and why they must be passed down throughout history. I also was very happy to see Nethercott touch on monstrosity and queerness: a topic I see often explored in the horror genre, but was pleasantly surprised to find in a fantasy, folkloric novel. Without a doubt in my mind, I could read this story a hundred times over and discover something new every single time.
I also found the characters absolutely amazing. Both our main characters have such specific identities, they felt very fleshed out and realistic, and I loved both of their arcs. Following them through each of their journeys was a genuine pleasure (heartbreak and all), as well as seeing their relationship with one another shift and grow as they discovered more about themselves bit by bit.
And of course, I could not talk about this book without mentioning the titular character, the house itself: Thistlefoot. I fell in love with this character, and the chapters that were narrated by the house were the ones that touched me the most. The way that the reimagined Baba Yaga tale was laid out throughout the story was so effective. I admit that, for most of the book, I was expecting this to be a 4.5-star rating; I had pretty much settled on it in fact. But then, I got to the last 100 pages of the novel... and I simply could not stop crying. And not just crying—sobbing. Every time I flipped to a chapter with Thistlefoot as the narrator, I had to brace myself and clutch my box of tissues because I knew I was in for a devastating emotional rollercoaster. As I'm writing this review, I'm exhausted from all the weeping, and I can't believe I've managed to write something decent here, instead of drowning in a pool of my own tears.
Although this book is a little long and although it may take some time at first for you to really settle into the story, it is definitely worth every single page. A top read of mine this year, without a doubt.
Their Vicious Games by Joelle Wellington
dark
emotional
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
4.5
This, to me, is the peak of YA thrillers. Of course, even as an adult, I absolutely devoured this. But specifically thinking about its target audience, it did everything it needed to do and executed it to perfection.
Wellington sets up the ideal story to get a teenager wrapped in: a mysterious, potentially violent game, a sexy love interest who has everyone falling at his feet but who only has eyes for our main character, witty dialogue that gets you riled up and keeps you on your toes, deep friendships but also complex high school relationships that will feel extremely relatable to any teenager who picks this book up. And then, once everything has been laid out perfectly, Wellington brings the reader down this terrifying, yet fascinating and (most of all) very real deep dive into the patriarchal, racist, and classist systems that dominate our society.
Wellington did an amazing job of not just analyzing the idea that racism, misogyny, and classism exist in our world, but showcasing just how deep they really go, just how much they impact one another, and just how much they truly affect every single person. The book allows the reader to explore the intersectionality of all these systems, while also becoming deeply invested in this horrifying game of death and psychological manipulation. Every single character was used to explore another facet of our world and, more specifically, the way that many people are simultaneously disadvantaged by and yet continue to perpetuate these systems of oppression and bigotry.
I don't think it was too complicated or analytical, to the point that a young reader might lose interest or not be particularly invested, while also not laying out the purpose of the novel word-per-word on page, allowing the audience to explore Wellington's message through the story itself. I also really appreciated that, while there is an element of romance and some charming moments between the main character and the love interest, it did not overpower the main point of the book, and it concluded in a way that I find was very realistic. It kept things interesting and alluring, while also never distracting from the main plot or overshadowing Wellington's true intention.
Overall, I had a great time with it and I absolutely recommend it. There is so much here to explore, so much depth to every single scene and character. Wellington writes in a way that is so intentional, it was a pleasure to experience, even amidst all the terror and emotional distress.
Source: NetGalley
Wellington sets up the ideal story to get a teenager wrapped in: a mysterious, potentially violent game, a sexy love interest who has everyone falling at his feet but who only has eyes for our main character, witty dialogue that gets you riled up and keeps you on your toes, deep friendships but also complex high school relationships that will feel extremely relatable to any teenager who picks this book up. And then, once everything has been laid out perfectly, Wellington brings the reader down this terrifying, yet fascinating and (most of all) very real deep dive into the patriarchal, racist, and classist systems that dominate our society.
Wellington did an amazing job of not just analyzing the idea that racism, misogyny, and classism exist in our world, but showcasing just how deep they really go, just how much they impact one another, and just how much they truly affect every single person. The book allows the reader to explore the intersectionality of all these systems, while also becoming deeply invested in this horrifying game of death and psychological manipulation. Every single character was used to explore another facet of our world and, more specifically, the way that many people are simultaneously disadvantaged by and yet continue to perpetuate these systems of oppression and bigotry.
I don't think it was too complicated or analytical, to the point that a young reader might lose interest or not be particularly invested, while also not laying out the purpose of the novel word-per-word on page, allowing the audience to explore Wellington's message through the story itself. I also really appreciated that, while there is an element of romance and some charming moments between the main character and the love interest, it did not overpower the main point of the book, and it concluded in a way that I find was very realistic. It kept things interesting and alluring, while also never distracting from the main plot or overshadowing Wellington's true intention.
Overall, I had a great time with it and I absolutely recommend it. There is so much here to explore, so much depth to every single scene and character. Wellington writes in a way that is so intentional, it was a pleasure to experience, even amidst all the terror and emotional distress.
Source: NetGalley
These Violent Delights by Micah Nemerever
dark
emotional
tense
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
"Fascinating", I think is the best word to use to describe this novel. Other than tabbing, I really don't annotate my books all that much. But this pulled me in so deeply from the very start, I instantly had to whip out a pencil. I wrote entire mini-essays in the margins of this book. I analyzed every single breath the characters took, and read into metaphors and allegories than may not have even been there. I was so enthralled by the story, I couldn't help but devour every word of it.
This might sound a bit off, especially considering that the novel is about two young men losing themselves in their anger and violence, but I really connected with the main character. Nemerever perfectly encapsulated my own feelings about the book in his author's note when he wrote, "I was terrified of my own anger and of where it might lead me, perhaps without my even realizing it." Hey? I was not prepared to spiral down a crisis about my teenage anger, years after effectively no longer being a teen? It brought up some very hard truths to stomach about the queer experience, and how the isolation and the pain can make you wish for or think about some truly terrible things. The double-edge "monstrosity" of a young queer person who grows up hearing the world call queer people unnatural abominations, and then "proving" them right by dreaming of horrendous things: Nemerever did an amazing job of exploring this very specific and very complex experience, and I was obsessed with every second of it.
Another thing I loved is the way that Nemerever made you feel things that you knew, objectively speaking, you shouldn't be feeling. I know this couple was not made for each other, the entire novel is about how toxic they are and how dangerous their obsession with one another can become. And yet, I spent the entire story rooting for them. I shouldn't have, and if they were real-life people, I would not have hesitated to tell them to break up and never speak to each other again. And yet, because of the amazing writing in this book, I became as obsessed with them as they were with one another. There were certain parts of the story where I should've felt relived, when instead I felt nervous or angry. Scenes that should have been horrifying to me, that I instead found quite romantic. Moments that gave me an intense sense of longing and yearning, that were in fact deeply psychologically disturbing. As I said, "fascinating" is the perfect way to describe my experience with this book.
One of the things I had written down while reading was, "Would I be rooting for them as much as I am if they weren't a queer couple?" And while I had originally said this as a joke, I think it's another interesting thing to point out: this story would not be the same if it centered a straight couple. The book is so inherently queer and so deeply Jewish as well. The characters and their specific life experiences are so central to the plot itself, this book would simply not exist if they had been anyone or anything else.
I've had my copy on my shelf for exactly two years, and I only picked it up now because a friend of mine wanted us to read it together. I'm beating myself up for not having picked it up as soon as I bought it back in 2021. The fact that I waited around so long to read this masterpiece is shameful, but I'm very grateful that I finally did get around to it. It is a stellar novel, and I wholeheartedly recommend it.
This might sound a bit off, especially considering that the novel is about two young men losing themselves in their anger and violence, but I really connected with the main character. Nemerever perfectly encapsulated my own feelings about the book in his author's note when he wrote, "I was terrified of my own anger and of where it might lead me, perhaps without my even realizing it." Hey? I was not prepared to spiral down a crisis about my teenage anger, years after effectively no longer being a teen? It brought up some very hard truths to stomach about the queer experience, and how the isolation and the pain can make you wish for or think about some truly terrible things. The double-edge "monstrosity" of a young queer person who grows up hearing the world call queer people unnatural abominations, and then "proving" them right by dreaming of horrendous things: Nemerever did an amazing job of exploring this very specific and very complex experience, and I was obsessed with every second of it.
Another thing I loved is the way that Nemerever made you feel things that you knew, objectively speaking, you shouldn't be feeling. I know this couple was not made for each other, the entire novel is about how toxic they are and how dangerous their obsession with one another can become. And yet, I spent the entire story rooting for them. I shouldn't have, and if they were real-life people, I would not have hesitated to tell them to break up and never speak to each other again. And yet, because of the amazing writing in this book, I became as obsessed with them as they were with one another. There were certain parts of the story where I should've felt relived, when instead I felt nervous or angry. Scenes that should have been horrifying to me, that I instead found quite romantic. Moments that gave me an intense sense of longing and yearning, that were in fact deeply psychologically disturbing. As I said, "fascinating" is the perfect way to describe my experience with this book.
One of the things I had written down while reading was, "Would I be rooting for them as much as I am if they weren't a queer couple?" And while I had originally said this as a joke, I think it's another interesting thing to point out: this story would not be the same if it centered a straight couple. The book is so inherently queer and so deeply Jewish as well. The characters and their specific life experiences are so central to the plot itself, this book would simply not exist if they had been anyone or anything else.
I've had my copy on my shelf for exactly two years, and I only picked it up now because a friend of mine wanted us to read it together. I'm beating myself up for not having picked it up as soon as I bought it back in 2021. The fact that I waited around so long to read this masterpiece is shameful, but I'm very grateful that I finally did get around to it. It is a stellar novel, and I wholeheartedly recommend it.
Where Echoes Die by Courtney Gould
dark
emotional
sad
tense
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
5.0
When I started reading this book, I was nervous. There's always a small fear, I think, when you pick up the second book of one of your favourite authors. The Dead and the Dark means so much to me, and I haven't stopped thinking about it since I read it a couple of years ago. I've been talking about it non-stop, and it still holds such an important place in my heart. So, when I heard that Gould was releasing a second book, I was ecstatic.
Once I actually opened it though, I suddenly got worried. I could not imagine it living up to the expectations I had for it or affecting me at even a fraction of the effect that The Dead and the Dark had on me. However, I am so incredibly pleased to confirm that it did all that and so much more. Gould really has an amazing talent, and I consider myself insanely lucky to be able to read her stories as they come out and to watch her build her craft in real time.
Where Echoes Die is one of those horror novels that I could read a dozen times over and discover something new every single time. There is so much depth to the way Gould uses horror elements to address such complex themes such as grief. The whole book breaks it down and really explores every single facet of dealing with death: what it means to be feel unable to move on, to always hold onto the past, the way your grief can affect those around you, and the way it can affect you in ways you don't even realize.
There are so many fascinating relationships in this story, and I adored how Gould explored not only those specifics dynamics, but also the way they shift other relationships, and how that shift changes overtime—either for better or for worse. Exploring mother-daughter dynamics through horror novels is what I use instead of paying for therapy, and this book had me unpacking more than I care to admit. The sister relationship is also fascinating, and I could probably write an entire essay for every single scene wherein our main character and her sister interact. There is just so much that Gould says in so few words, my mind is reeling trying to wrap itself around the genius of this novel.
I mentioned this before, but I will always have a soft spot for sapphic (and specifically lesbian) final girls who have the weight of the world on their shoulders, so I should have known this book was going to make me cry. But when I say cry... I mean sob. Deep, loud, heaving sobs. It was an amazing experience, and I would give the world to be able to relive those last 80 pages for the first time all over again.
Although this may seem counter-intuitive to some people, whether or not a horror novel actually terrified me is never a main criteria for me. It's always a fun bonus, but the genre is so much more complex to me than just pure fear factor. That being said, dear god, this was unnerving. It took me so long to get through because I was having so much terrifying fun reading this in the pitch darkness of my room between the hours of 11pm and 1am, I refused to pick it up in any other setting. It was so eerie, so distressing, so unsettling, I am obsessed. I had so much fun with it, and I think that particular element was actually a step up from The Dead and the Dark, which was maybe not quite as frightening. Gould really captured the terror of not being in control of yourself and feeling unsure of everything happening around you. I really did experience the main character's stress and unease with her, and I had the time of my life with it.
Unless it wasn't already clear, I recommend this book with every single cell in my body. I know this very literally just came out, but I am already so excited to see what Gould releases next.
Thank you so much, Wednesday Books and NetGalley, for an advance reader copy of this novel. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Once I actually opened it though, I suddenly got worried. I could not imagine it living up to the expectations I had for it or affecting me at even a fraction of the effect that The Dead and the Dark had on me. However, I am so incredibly pleased to confirm that it did all that and so much more. Gould really has an amazing talent, and I consider myself insanely lucky to be able to read her stories as they come out and to watch her build her craft in real time.
Where Echoes Die is one of those horror novels that I could read a dozen times over and discover something new every single time. There is so much depth to the way Gould uses horror elements to address such complex themes such as grief. The whole book breaks it down and really explores every single facet of dealing with death: what it means to be feel unable to move on, to always hold onto the past, the way your grief can affect those around you, and the way it can affect you in ways you don't even realize.
There are so many fascinating relationships in this story, and I adored how Gould explored not only those specifics dynamics, but also the way they shift other relationships, and how that shift changes overtime—either for better or for worse. Exploring mother-daughter dynamics through horror novels is what I use instead of paying for therapy, and this book had me unpacking more than I care to admit. The sister relationship is also fascinating, and I could probably write an entire essay for every single scene wherein our main character and her sister interact. There is just so much that Gould says in so few words, my mind is reeling trying to wrap itself around the genius of this novel.
I mentioned this before, but I will always have a soft spot for sapphic (and specifically lesbian) final girls who have the weight of the world on their shoulders, so I should have known this book was going to make me cry. But when I say cry... I mean sob. Deep, loud, heaving sobs. It was an amazing experience, and I would give the world to be able to relive those last 80 pages for the first time all over again.
Although this may seem counter-intuitive to some people, whether or not a horror novel actually terrified me is never a main criteria for me. It's always a fun bonus, but the genre is so much more complex to me than just pure fear factor. That being said, dear god, this was unnerving. It took me so long to get through because I was having so much terrifying fun reading this in the pitch darkness of my room between the hours of 11pm and 1am, I refused to pick it up in any other setting. It was so eerie, so distressing, so unsettling, I am obsessed. I had so much fun with it, and I think that particular element was actually a step up from The Dead and the Dark, which was maybe not quite as frightening. Gould really captured the terror of not being in control of yourself and feeling unsure of everything happening around you. I really did experience the main character's stress and unease with her, and I had the time of my life with it.
Unless it wasn't already clear, I recommend this book with every single cell in my body. I know this very literally just came out, but I am already so excited to see what Gould releases next.
Thank you so much, Wednesday Books and NetGalley, for an advance reader copy of this novel. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Falling For the Mark by Dominique Davis
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
2.5
I'm sad to say, but this was not for me.
I was pretty excited for it, and at the beginning I saw that Davis was touching on some interesting themes such as grief and the way it can look very different from one person to another, meeting your parents' high expectations for who you become, the difficulties of navigating the world as a woman of colour. So I thought it would be the perfect balance between romance and women's fiction for me.
However, Davis doesn't really delve very far into these conversations. There are a few scenes or poignant passages here and there, but not enough for me to become truly invested in the discussion or feel very deeply about the message. Of course, maybe that just wasn't Davis' intention, and she sought out specifically to write a pure romance story. Which would have been fine... if I had been able to root for the main couple.
I could not stand Maya. She spends most of the book frustrated at Kennedy for not being able to bring down her walls, to let people in, to trust someone, to be vulnerable with people, to fall in love... all while Maya is actively scamming her and her father. It was so hypocritical. The book tried to set conning and grifting as this deep, complex background story for the way that Maya is and how she was raised and what that means for her today and the way she perceives herself. And I guess there was some kind of conversation to be had about her character development and the dynamic she has with her mother. But that doesn't remove the fact that it is twisted that Maya actively tried to convince Kennedy that they should date and constantly told Kennedy that she needs to learn to be more trusting of people, knowing very well that she was lying through her teeth every single day. The blind irony of her actions and her words was infuriating.
I'll admit that the sexual tension between them was fun at first, but when I got to these "heartbreaking" scenes where Kennedy finds out the truth and the women breakup in the middle of a tear-filled argument, all I felt was vindication. And then the ending was maddening to me because I cannot fathom how someone can build a relationship on top of such a deep-seated lie. The whole thing baffled me.
What I'm really sad about is that I think there was some great potential to explore Kennedy's grief in the story. And while Davis does touch on it from time to time, I wanted so much more, because it was the only part of the novel in which I was actually really invested.
I concede that some people may enjoy this novel. I'm sure there's a big portion of readers out there, romance-lovers especially, for whom this kind of set up wouldn't be an issue; people for which the twisted aspect of their relationship is something that would be interesting to explore, instead of something dubious and unrealistic to the point of distraction. So maybe I'm just not the target audience for this. As I mentioned, there were some moments of flirting and teasing between the MCs during which I was in fact enjoying myself. But my brain just couldn't get past the grander scheme of the context of their relationship.
I received an advance review copy of this book for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I was pretty excited for it, and at the beginning I saw that Davis was touching on some interesting themes such as grief and the way it can look very different from one person to another, meeting your parents' high expectations for who you become, the difficulties of navigating the world as a woman of colour. So I thought it would be the perfect balance between romance and women's fiction for me.
However, Davis doesn't really delve very far into these conversations. There are a few scenes or poignant passages here and there, but not enough for me to become truly invested in the discussion or feel very deeply about the message. Of course, maybe that just wasn't Davis' intention, and she sought out specifically to write a pure romance story. Which would have been fine... if I had been able to root for the main couple.
What I'm really sad about is that I think there was some great potential to explore Kennedy's grief in the story. And while Davis does touch on it from time to time, I wanted so much more, because it was the only part of the novel in which I was actually really invested.
I concede that some people may enjoy this novel. I'm sure there's a big portion of readers out there, romance-lovers especially, for whom this kind of set up wouldn't be an issue; people for which the twisted aspect of their relationship is something that would be interesting to explore, instead of something dubious and unrealistic to the point of distraction. So maybe I'm just not the target audience for this. As I mentioned, there were some moments of flirting and teasing between the MCs during which I was in fact enjoying myself. But my brain just couldn't get past the grander scheme of the context of their relationship.
I received an advance review copy of this book for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
By Your Side by Margherita Scialla
emotional
lighthearted
reflective
relaxing
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
4.0
This was so unbelievably sweet and wholesome!
I have to admit that, before reading this, I didn't realize that "queerplatonic" was an actual, specific type of relationship. I thought it was just a way for Scialla to mention clearly in the title that their story was centered around queer friendship. So I definitely learned something new today, and it got me thinking of some queer friends of mine who may actually relate to or connect with the idea of a queerplatonic relationship. It also got me to rethink a few of my own queer relationships, and the way these have often fallen into that grey, slightly confusing area between friendship and romantic love. I never considered before that there could be something more and that not every relationship had to fall exactly into one of these two categories. It sent me down into a bit of a spiral, but in a good sense, in a way that got me to reevaluate and maybe rediscover a part of myself I didn't have the words for before. Not to say necessarily that I would want specifically queerplatonic relationships with all my queer friends, but this short story at the very least opened my mind up to the possibility of one's feelings existing outside of the specific bounds of friendship or romance as I've always understood them.
The story itself is so warm and comforting. I found myself smiling throughout it, even when I wasn't expecting it, and the moments of deep affection had me so emotional (I did indeed shed some tears while reading). I think Scialla really captured the beauty and happiness of having someone with whom you can be fully and truly yourself, and the feeling of inner peace that comes with that type of physical and emotional proximity to a person. It did have me yearning for a closeness and a safe space for true, untethered vulnerability that I maybe don't have the guts to admit that I want. So once again, the story sent me down a bit of a spiral in that sense. Which is great for me because slice-of-life usually isn't my go-to when it comes to reading, but having this slight identity crisis in a 60-page story made it so that I was much more invested than I expected to be.
My one thing is that I do think the writing needs work. There were some passages that felt a little clunky and turns of phrase that came out a little awkward. It definitely isn't to a point that took me completely out of the story or that was hyper-distracting, but I did notice it, and it was enough to throw me off a bit.
That being said, it brought me to tears in under 60 pages, so credit where credit is due, I really enjoyed this. If you're looking for something cozy and wholesome, that may or may not also incite a deep, personal identity crisis into your own feelings and the nature of your relationships, then this is the short story for you!
I received an advance review copy of this book for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I have to admit that, before reading this, I didn't realize that "queerplatonic" was an actual, specific type of relationship. I thought it was just a way for Scialla to mention clearly in the title that their story was centered around queer friendship. So I definitely learned something new today, and it got me thinking of some queer friends of mine who may actually relate to or connect with the idea of a queerplatonic relationship. It also got me to rethink a few of my own queer relationships, and the way these have often fallen into that grey, slightly confusing area between friendship and romantic love. I never considered before that there could be something more and that not every relationship had to fall exactly into one of these two categories. It sent me down into a bit of a spiral, but in a good sense, in a way that got me to reevaluate and maybe rediscover a part of myself I didn't have the words for before. Not to say necessarily that I would want specifically queerplatonic relationships with all my queer friends, but this short story at the very least opened my mind up to the possibility of one's feelings existing outside of the specific bounds of friendship or romance as I've always understood them.
The story itself is so warm and comforting. I found myself smiling throughout it, even when I wasn't expecting it, and the moments of deep affection had me so emotional (I did indeed shed some tears while reading). I think Scialla really captured the beauty and happiness of having someone with whom you can be fully and truly yourself, and the feeling of inner peace that comes with that type of physical and emotional proximity to a person. It did have me yearning for a closeness and a safe space for true, untethered vulnerability that I maybe don't have the guts to admit that I want. So once again, the story sent me down a bit of a spiral in that sense. Which is great for me because slice-of-life usually isn't my go-to when it comes to reading, but having this slight identity crisis in a 60-page story made it so that I was much more invested than I expected to be.
My one thing is that I do think the writing needs work. There were some passages that felt a little clunky and turns of phrase that came out a little awkward. It definitely isn't to a point that took me completely out of the story or that was hyper-distracting, but I did notice it, and it was enough to throw me off a bit.
That being said, it brought me to tears in under 60 pages, so credit where credit is due, I really enjoyed this. If you're looking for something cozy and wholesome, that may or may not also incite a deep, personal identity crisis into your own feelings and the nature of your relationships, then this is the short story for you!
I received an advance review copy of this book for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Going Bicoastal by Dahlia Adler
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
4.5
This was absolutely adorable!
I loved Natalya so much. She's so cute and honestly hilarious, the book had me laughing and giggling throughout both stories. The flirting was super fun, and to my great surprise, I was actually deeply invested in both couples. I was sure I would prefer the NYC plotline over the LA one, because I'm a sucker for a hot mysterious girl crush. But I loved both, honestly, and I really don't think there was an ending that made me happier and giddier than the other.
I was surprised that, despite the fact that "nothing really happens" in the book (something that I know Adler specifically sought out with this novel), I had a lot of fun with it! I'm not big on cozy, slice-of-life stories, and I usually need some kind of emotional turmoil to keep me invested. But I was genuinely really entertained by this, and I'm so glad I picked it up.
On a completely personal note, I still think Home Field Advantage is my preferred Dahlia Adler book. I knew it would be hard to beat, considering it's one of my favourite YA novels out there, and as fun as the slice-of-life, "everything is good and great" energy in Going Bicoastal was, I do prefer some emotional damage in my novels, just to really hit me deep in my soul. But if you're someone who is looking for a book that will make you feel good and at peace, this one is absolutely for you, I 100% recommend it!
Thank you so much, Wednesday Books and NetGalley, for an advance reader copy of this novel. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I loved Natalya so much. She's so cute and honestly hilarious, the book had me laughing and giggling throughout both stories. The flirting was super fun, and to my great surprise, I was actually deeply invested in both couples. I was sure I would prefer the NYC plotline over the LA one, because I'm a sucker for a hot mysterious girl crush. But I loved both, honestly, and I really don't think there was an ending that made me happier and giddier than the other.
I was surprised that, despite the fact that "nothing really happens" in the book (something that I know Adler specifically sought out with this novel), I had a lot of fun with it! I'm not big on cozy, slice-of-life stories, and I usually need some kind of emotional turmoil to keep me invested. But I was genuinely really entertained by this, and I'm so glad I picked it up.
On a completely personal note, I still think Home Field Advantage is my preferred Dahlia Adler book. I knew it would be hard to beat, considering it's one of my favourite YA novels out there, and as fun as the slice-of-life, "everything is good and great" energy in Going Bicoastal was, I do prefer some emotional damage in my novels, just to really hit me deep in my soul. But if you're someone who is looking for a book that will make you feel good and at peace, this one is absolutely for you, I 100% recommend it!
Thank you so much, Wednesday Books and NetGalley, for an advance reader copy of this novel. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Love at First Set by Jennifer Dugan
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
3.5
All in all, this was a cute novel and I had a decent amount of fun reading it!
It's definitely not the most revolutionary romance novel I've ever picked up, but I did eventually get sort of attached to the characters and invested in their story. There's definitely some very cliché but nonetheless very entertaining scenes and moments between the main couple, and it had me hooked enough to read it all essentially in one night.
I do think the writing needs work. It threw me off at first and it was hard to get fully immersed into the story because of how awkward and distracting it was. I think I eventually got used to the narrative voice, enough to enjoy myself, but there were still some passages that surpassed my tolerance level for "cliché" and made me cringe just a bit.
I also think the characters could've been a bit more developed. Some of them felt a little one note or cartoonish. For instance, I get that the main villain acts the way she does for a reason, but it wasn't explored in a ton of depth, so it felt like she was being mean just for the sake of being mean which was more annoying than anything else.
But I do admit that the story was cute, and I found myself whispering the dialogue out loud to myself just to hear it play it out or to imagine myself in that moment. There's some funny moments in it and an interesting plot outside of the main romance, so overall I had fun. I don't know if I would necessarily recommend this novel as a way to introduce people to sapphic romance, but I would mention it to someone for whom it's their specific niche.
Source: NetGalley
It's definitely not the most revolutionary romance novel I've ever picked up, but I did eventually get sort of attached to the characters and invested in their story. There's definitely some very cliché but nonetheless very entertaining scenes and moments between the main couple, and it had me hooked enough to read it all essentially in one night.
I do think the writing needs work. It threw me off at first and it was hard to get fully immersed into the story because of how awkward and distracting it was. I think I eventually got used to the narrative voice, enough to enjoy myself, but there were still some passages that surpassed my tolerance level for "cliché" and made me cringe just a bit.
I also think the characters could've been a bit more developed. Some of them felt a little one note or cartoonish. For instance, I get that the main villain acts the way she does for a reason, but it wasn't explored in a ton of depth, so it felt like she was being mean just for the sake of being mean which was more annoying than anything else.
But I do admit that the story was cute, and I found myself whispering the dialogue out loud to myself just to hear it play it out or to imagine myself in that moment. There's some funny moments in it and an interesting plot outside of the main romance, so overall I had fun. I don't know if I would necessarily recommend this novel as a way to introduce people to sapphic romance, but I would mention it to someone for whom it's their specific niche.
Source: NetGalley