Take a photo of a barcode or cover
minerva_library's Reviews (83)
hopeful
informative
lighthearted
reflective
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
Advanced Reader Copy Review! Queen Fiona of Apartment 4C - or simply "Fiona" - knows that she is smart, and helpful, playful, resourceful and so much more than "pretty" or "lovely" like her family say. Fiona knows that she does many things well and wants to be appreciated for her actions, but her family doesn't seem to realize that.
Kids, like Fiona, sometimes aren't sure how to express themselves. Fiona isn't able to express her frustrations with her family, but it affects how she feels. Similarly, the words we use to praise children are important, as they may not always know which words to use to express themselves, but their actions can speak louder than their words. Praising someone for being kind, athletic, smart, artistic, caring or anything beyond their looks is an important message.
Conversations or books about this topic may appeal to both parents, educators, and children themselves. The colorful illustrations, and simple words that reinforce a positive message make this a great choice as a shared read, guided read or independent read for young readers of varying level.
Thank you to NetGalley and 4U2B Books & Media for an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
Kids, like Fiona, sometimes aren't sure how to express themselves. Fiona isn't able to express her frustrations with her family, but it affects how she feels. Similarly, the words we use to praise children are important, as they may not always know which words to use to express themselves, but their actions can speak louder than their words. Praising someone for being kind, athletic, smart, artistic, caring or anything beyond their looks is an important message.
Conversations or books about this topic may appeal to both parents, educators, and children themselves. The colorful illustrations, and simple words that reinforce a positive message make this a great choice as a shared read, guided read or independent read for young readers of varying level.
Thank you to NetGalley and 4U2B Books & Media for an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
emotional
funny
lighthearted
mysterious
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:
Yes
The premise itself was endearing and a huge part of what convinced me to pick up the book. I did expect it to be slightly cliched but I was pleasantly surprised throughout the book. It managed to surprise me a few times which as someone who almost always guesses what will happen next on TV - was very enjoyable.
I was surprised at the level of spice! I think the cutesy covers often trick me into thinking that a book, even if I do see a “spice rating” that it won’t be as sexually detailed. I’d probably give it a 4.5/5 spice as it wasn’t fade to black and was frequent enough towards the end that it was generally very spicy.
I do love paranormal romances when like this one - the setting is modern, even if it’s a vaguely small town. I liked the build up between the main love interests. I felt it was the right amount of slow burn to have you dying for when they get together but also short enough that you got to enjoy them as a couple in the book.
The ending did feel rushed, and wasn’t as overall satisfying as I had hoped it would be. I feel it resolved too quickly for how much of a threat the antagonist was presented as and the frequency of the spice to plot towards the end was a little annoying as it definitely took up majority of the page count. I usually enjoy plentiful intimate scenes between a couple but I think I found it annoying as there didn’t seem to be the same amount of care for the ending and resolution.
I was surprised at the level of spice! I think the cutesy covers often trick me into thinking that a book, even if I do see a “spice rating” that it won’t be as sexually detailed. I’d probably give it a 4.5/5 spice as it wasn’t fade to black and was frequent enough towards the end that it was generally very spicy.
I do love paranormal romances when like this one - the setting is modern, even if it’s a vaguely small town. I liked the build up between the main love interests. I felt it was the right amount of slow burn to have you dying for when they get together but also short enough that you got to enjoy them as a couple in the book.
The ending did feel rushed, and wasn’t as overall satisfying as I had hoped it would be. I feel it resolved too quickly for how much of a threat the antagonist was presented as and the frequency of the spice to plot towards the end was a little annoying as it definitely took up majority of the page count. I usually enjoy plentiful intimate scenes between a couple but I think I found it annoying as there didn’t seem to be the same amount of care for the ending and resolution.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexual content
Moderate: Abandonment
Minor: Violence, Kidnapping, Grief
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
With a name derived from Greek mythology, as soon as I could read, I was learning about the Greek myths. This book had that immediate appeal for me but wasn’t the only reason that as a young kid, I kept reading. I was enamored with the concept of a modern-day demigod, and one that was stubborn, flawed, impulsive, cunning, loyal and (let’s not forget Percy was definitely called Persassy in early fandom days) fueled on blue foods and spite.
I loved the voice given to Percy and learning later on that Rick Riordan was a middle school teacher made sense that we was able to grasp that very particular level of audacity and humor.
I continued to be obsessed with the main five books, and then the sequel series for years to come and now - having graduated college myself - Percy’s college era. I’ve been in love with Percy, Annabeth, and Grover for years. He was the best kind of hero who in his own words feels that everything that could go wrong has gone wrong yet to others appears to be an unnerving level of calm and strength (and yes, a level of impulsive and poor-thought out plans that only he could pull off).
Probably always gonna be a 10/5 for me - nostalgia alone but also as I feel this book was a game-changer for everything I read after.
I loved the voice given to Percy and learning later on that Rick Riordan was a middle school teacher made sense that we was able to grasp that very particular level of audacity and humor.
I continued to be obsessed with the main five books, and then the sequel series for years to come and now - having graduated college myself - Percy’s college era. I’ve been in love with Percy, Annabeth, and Grover for years. He was the best kind of hero who in his own words feels that everything that could go wrong has gone wrong yet to others appears to be an unnerving level of calm and strength (and yes, a level of impulsive and poor-thought out plans that only he could pull off).
Probably always gonna be a 10/5 for me - nostalgia alone but also as I feel this book was a game-changer for everything I read after.
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Cleo is a mischievous kitty whose “cattitude” reminds me of my cat. She’s energetic, gets into trouble, and wants to spend time with her family but also be by herself.
The colorful illustrations depict a diverse family and Cleo’s personality leaps across the pages. I love cats and I love picture books about cats and the silly things they do so this was definitely a win!
The colorful illustrations depict a diverse family and Cleo’s personality leaps across the pages. I love cats and I love picture books about cats and the silly things they do so this was definitely a win!
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
mysterious
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
This series, alongside a few others, was one of my favorite growing up. I loved the brother/sister duo of Kendra and Seth - both with their own strengths and weaknesses.
Kendra is very tender-hearted and think of others a lot. Seth is adventurous and often impulsive, but quick-thinking and clever plans usually get him out of trouble.
I spent a lot of time with my grandparents growing up. I shared in the joy for Kendra and Seth that their grandparent’s property of land was really a nature preserve for magical creatures - including fairing, unicorns, satyrs and more.
Kendra is very tender-hearted and think of others a lot. Seth is adventurous and often impulsive, but quick-thinking and clever plans usually get him out of trouble.
I spent a lot of time with my grandparents growing up. I shared in the joy for Kendra and Seth that
adventurous
challenging
emotional
hopeful
tense
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
In the past, I've enjoyed dragon books, but what really motivated me to read this one was how popular it had become online - both Xaden the love interest and the plot itself. I really enjoyed book 1 of this series. Like many books I've enjoyed - I read through this book within just a day or so - and could see myself reading through again with more care and attention to detail. It was also enjoyable to read about a protagonist that wasn't the physically strongest as she's described to have a chronic condition that fans have pointed out sounds like Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) - which Author Rebecca Yarros shares that affects the body's connective tissue.
I loved the stubborn and intellectual nature of Violet Sorrengail. She quickly learns that due to her less than physical prowess, she'd have to rely on her intellect and cunning which she quickly does by poisoning opponents that otherwise would have the physical upper hand. I enjoyed the lore and political background that was woven through the story - as it was a big reason that Violet, daughter of the general, should otherwise stay away from Xaden Riorson, the handsome dragon rider whose family Violet's mother had executes as traitors. However, it's understandable Violet falls for him as he's definitely described as swoon-worthy.
This book definitely relies on a bit of the "Chosen One" trope withViolet - the rather unsuspecting hero- in the lead role. Not only does she bond with TWO dragons - something no one else has - but they are both rare and powerful dragons. Not all of her power is reliant on her dragon either as from her bonds with her dragon she gains the ability to wield lightning. I did enjoy this as it wasn't too leaned on, and there were times that Violet seemed genuinely at threat rather than protected by plot armor.
Also the ending! Even when I had my suspicions - the emotional payoff was so good!
I loved the stubborn and intellectual nature of Violet Sorrengail. She quickly learns that
This book definitely relies on a bit of the "Chosen One" trope with
Also the ending! Even when I had my suspicions - the emotional payoff was so good!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Sexual content, Violence, Fire/Fire injury
Moderate: War, Injury/Injury detail
Minor: Chronic illness
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
N/A
Loveable characters:
N/A
Diverse cast of characters:
N/A
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
It wouldn’t be a good day at work without getting distracted by a delightful book! The art is charming and story is more than entertaining.
emotional
lighthearted
relaxing
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:
No
Some books are artsy and intense, and some are like movie theatre popcorn - you don't want it all the time but it's usually good in the moment but maybe not in large amounts. This book is one of those movie theatre popcorn moments where I immensely enjoyed the plot, the characters, even the premise despite not typically being a fan of hockey romance (though authors make it really hard to find fault). The men all respected Molly and her safety, her choices, and her well-being. All of the men had varied personality and appeal.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexual content
Minor: Vomit
emotional
funny
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
I really liked this book! It first came on my radar when I saw the movie trailer, and I decided that before watching it I’d like to read the book. Such a silly premise - son of president and son of the British monarch - meet and cause chaos only to realize that the other means more to them than they’d expect.
I loved how this book explore the progression of their relationship over their texts, their emails, and their visits with each other. I loved that it gave space for them to be self-reflective and panic and the romance was well-written and entertaining.
I can definitely see myself not only read it again, but maybe try listening to it, and watching the movie again. I know there’s a lot of people who didn’t enjoy this, but I think it executed the strangers to lovers trope well, the premise was fun and lighthearted with the right amount of emotion, and the ending was satisfying for the expected payoff of the book.
I loved how this book explore the progression of their relationship over their texts, their emails, and their visits with each other. I loved that it gave space for them to be self-reflective and panic and the romance was well-written and entertaining.
I can definitely see myself not only read it again, but maybe try listening to it, and watching the movie again. I know there’s a lot of people who didn’t enjoy this, but I think it executed the strangers to lovers trope well, the premise was fun and lighthearted with the right amount of emotion, and the ending was satisfying for the expected payoff of the book.
challenging
dark
emotional
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
I went back and forth between 2-stars and 3-stars because this was a new author for me and I don’t think I fully grasped that she writes DARK novels. The triggers warning in this book shouldn’t be ignored or taken likely. I did finish this book and I’ve started Book 2, but after completing this one - it’s decidedly not quite my style. I liked the premise and I’ve enjoyed Why Choose novels plenty of times before. I had no probably with the sexual nature of the book, rather the level of sexual violence and how casual it was treated.
The premise of the world building was intriguing of which witches of different “factions” exist - kept apart for fear of how powerful they could be together. All of the factions however fear or hate Blood Witches, the originators of the conflict with humans. To most of the witched they’re seen as the reason that witches are looked down upon.
Despite the intriguing lore, the plot and events in the book are too violent for me - particularly too sexually violent to me. I was cringing and skimming over parts, waiting for those moments to end and I hated how casual it was treated.The author’s choice to have sex treated as a obligation and ritual event to the point that women witches in her home aren’t expected to enjoy sex or take personal pleasure was something, but I can’t fathom why it had to also include threat of forced penetration of a knife (which later on is not a threat but actually occurs??)
I did enjoy the relationship between the characters, and the romance as it developed - a sort of amoral Beauty and the Beast captive enemies to lovers. Despite her upbringing, the FMC is portrayed as and continued to develop into a badass.
But I’m really turned off by the level of misogynistic language included. It just isn’t the kind of thing that even if she’s being rescued and isn’t totally a damsel, that I find enjoyable to read in a romance setting. I think dark romances can be sexy and enjoyable without such mentions of sexual violence, not that I don’t know that consensual non-consent is a thing - which this wasn’t not. Sexual abuse doesn’t occur between the love interests, it all an assault by antagonists.
Overall, the author is a strong storyteller and world builder and I enjoyed what I read - I can tell why readers might enjoy what they write - but I found myself skimming various sections in annoyance. I do feel like a little to blame as I didn’t take the tags seriously.
The premise of the world building was intriguing of which witches of different “factions” exist - kept apart for fear of how powerful they could be together. All of the factions however fear or hate Blood Witches, the originators of the conflict with humans. To most of the witched they’re seen as the reason that witches are looked down upon.
Despite the intriguing lore, the plot and events in the book are too violent for me - particularly too sexually violent to me. I was cringing and skimming over parts, waiting for those moments to end and I hated how casual it was treated.
I did enjoy the relationship between the characters, and the romance as it developed - a sort of amoral Beauty and the Beast captive enemies to lovers. Despite her upbringing, the FMC is portrayed as and continued to develop into a badass.
But I’m really turned off by the level of misogynistic language included. It just isn’t the kind of thing that even if she’s being rescued and isn’t totally a damsel, that I find enjoyable to read in a romance setting. I think dark romances can be sexy and enjoyable without such mentions of sexual violence, not that I don’t know that consensual non-consent is a thing - which this wasn’t not. Sexual abuse doesn’t occur between the love interests, it all an assault by antagonists.
Overall, the author is a strong storyteller and world builder and I enjoyed what I read - I can tell why readers might enjoy what they write - but I found myself skimming various sections in annoyance. I do feel like a little to blame as I didn’t take the tags seriously.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Cursing, Sexual content, Sexual violence
Moderate: Child abuse, Death, Infidelity, Toxic relationship, Violence, Xenophobia, Blood, Toxic friendship
Minor: Sexual assault, Slavery, War
As listed on the inside cover of the book (but not on the author’s website) the trigger warnings are listed as “Explicit sexual content between one female and three males. Violence. Torture. Graphic language. Dubious consent. Sexual violence (not between the main love interests), Emotional and physical abuse. Past child abuse. Kidnapping. There is blood play. Breath play. Some public claiming and a whole lot of spice.”