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lefttoread's Reviews (532)


I’ve finally finished this book

Anne of Green Gables is a heartwarming, timeless classic that feels like a cozy autumn afternoon wrapped in words. The story of Anne Shirley, an imaginative and spirited orphan taken in by the Cuthberts, is brimming with charm, wit, and life lessons that resonate across all ages.

Anne’s mishaps and heartfelt moments bring a smile to your face, and her optimistic outlook reminds us of the joy found in the everyday. L.M. Montgomery’s vivid descriptions of Prince Edward Island makes the setting come to life.

This book is perfect for those seeking a feel-good read filled with warmth and gentle humor. It’s not just about Anne’s adventures but also about the beauty of finding your place in the world and cherishing the people who become your family. While I thoroughly enjoyed this read, I couldn’t help but wish I had discovered it when I was younger—the lessons about kindness, resilience, and embracing one’s true self are things that would have made an even greater impact during childhood.

Whether you’re revisiting an old favorite or discovering it for the first time, Anne of Green Gables is a story that reminds you to see the world with wonder, just as Anne does.

Despite its critical acclaim, I found myself struggling to connect with Keegan’s writing style. While the prose is undeniably beautiful—delicate, measured, and filled with a sense of quiet melancholy—it felt distant to me. The subtlety of the story, which many readers admire, made it harder for me to become fully invested in the characters and their world.

I wanted to read the original story first, knowing that a film adaptation is under way. I’m looking forward to seeing how the film captures the story’s mood and themes, and I might revisit the novella afterward to see if it resonates more with me after seeing the characters come to life on screen.

Overall, while Small Things Like These is undoubtedly a finely crafted novella with important themes, it didn’t fully connect with me on an emotional level. I’m hoping the film might offer a new perspective and help me appreciate the story in a different light.

The Right Move is another easy and enjoyable read from Liz Tomforde, continuing the feel-good romantic vibes from her previous work. Tomforde’s writing remains engaging, and she clearly understands what her readers want to see from a male love interest. However, while her storytelling style shines, this installment felt a bit lacking compared to the first book in the series.

Ryan Shay, the male protagonist, is almost too perfect, to the point where his character becomes a little hard to connect with. The book leans heavily into the idealization of the male love interest, which, while appealing at first, eventually made the story feel a bit too cheesy for my liking. His flawlessness leaves little room for tension or growth in the relationship, which is what makes romance novels truly captivating.

I also found myself less drawn to the couple in The Right Move than I was to the pair from the first book. There was a certain spark or depth that was missing in their dynamic, making it harder to fully invest in their love story.

That being said, it’s still a pleasant read for fans of the genre, and Tomforde’s knack for creating a feel-good romance is undeniable.

Graveyard Shift by M.L. Rio started off with a promising premise and a captivating atmosphere that immediately drew me in. It kind of reminded me of T. Kingfisher’s What Moves the Dead, and I was initially hooked by the suspenseful setting and the slow-building tension. However, as the story progressed, it gradually lost its momentum. Though it shared a similar tone to What Moves the Dead, it fell short in comparison and didn’t captivate me in the same way.

The Raven Boys by Maggie Stiefvater is a magical journey that effortlessly weaves together paranormal elements, complex characters, and an enchanting setting. The story pulled me in right from the start, with its blend of mystery, supernatural intrigue, and deeply personal character arcs.

The characters are the heart of this story. The found family vibes, especially Blue’s interactions with her own quirky family, added a comforting, warm layer to the darker plot threads. I particularly loved the way Stiefvater incorporates the paranormal elements. They feel both enchanting and unsettling, adding a rich, atmospheric tone that elevates the story beyond a typical young adult novel.

My only regret? I wish I had picked this up when I was younger—I would have been obsessed! There’s a youthful sense of discovery and magic that would have made this series an all-time favorite in my teen years. Even now, it was a thrilling read, and I’m excited to see where the series goes next.