lynxylisa's reviews
41 reviews

Western Civilization: Beyond Boundaries by Barry S. Strauss, Thomas F.X. Noble

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4.0

It's a textbook, so it's not going to read like a novel. However it's very comprehensive and quite pleasant to read through.

I decided to purchase a copy after my class ended to do some further reading on my own. It's my primary source for Western European history.
The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller

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5.0

Madeline Miller has become my favourite author of all time after this book. She has such a way of storytelling. I was possessed by this story for weeks even after finishing it.
Neverwhere: Author's Preferred Text by Neil Gaiman

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3.0

This is my first Neil Gaiman novel, and I was pleasantly surprised. This book went down smooth like a expertly mixed cocktail on a hot sunny day. I had come to the end of the story before I knew it and find myself craving more.
Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert

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5.0

This book truly changed my life.

As a creative professional, I battle everyday against fear of rejection and anxiety of uncertain futures. This book has opened my eyes to a new way of experiencing my personal gift of creativity, and it has set me on a path of freeing myself from the prison of my own fear.
Children of Earth and Sky by Guy Gavriel Kay

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4.0

Really loved all the cultural references. Very vivid imagery and lively characters.
The Bird King by G. Willow Wilson

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3.0

I really like the setting that was chosen, though I find the world building to be quite lacking. I felt like I was not so much experiencing the story but rather trying to decipher it from far away. Also, the ending seemed really rushed, it was over in a few short chapters.

A lot of interesting lore and reference to mythology was evoked but remained underdeveloped and seemed only to be there to serve the plot and character.
The Scribe of Siena by Melodie Winawer

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4.0

I wish this book was longer!

What a delightful read. I couldn't put it down and always read late until the night.

I especially live the vivid descriptions of 14th century Sienna life. This may be a work of fiction but I have learned much.

Overall, highly recommend. A must read for historical fiction lovers
The Hittites: The Story of a Forgotten Empire by A.H. Sayce

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2.0

Overall Informative

Keep in mind that this was written in the 19th century, so some information may be outdated. You might also notice some racial rhetoric, which is understandable given the author's time period.

There are some dry spots throughout the book that I had to drag myself through, but all in all a decent overview of information. Heavy emphasis on descriptions of artifacts and buildings.
His Majesty's Dragon by Naomi Novik

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3.0

You won't notice the time passing at all when you're reading this book. I love the writing style, and clearly the author has done immense amount of research. The story is not only captivating from beginning to end, it is also filled with world building details that just adds such realism and richness to the narrative.

I will be buying all the books in the series of course. Can't wait!