Scan barcode
nataliestorozhenko's reviews
166 reviews
Sojourn by R.A. Salvatore
adventurous
dark
emotional
sad
tense
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? N/A
4.0
This journey was truly heartbreaking. It was painful to see Drizzt being rejected everywhere due to prejudices about his race. When he once again started packing his things towards the end, it really broke my heart and made me sob. The book was emotional and I was glad to see the part of the lore where he becomes a true ranger. I also enjoyed the time he spent with Mooshie and their conversation about faith. Out of the three books, I think I loved this one the most.
«You know Mielikki’s rules as well as I. You have been following them all of your life. I offer you a name for it, that is all, and an ideal of behavior personified, an example that you might follow in times that you stray from what you know is true.»
However, I feel like I need a break from the author's writing, even though I still plan to eventually finish Drizzt's life story. After some time, it's become apparent that something is lacking and at times it feels like reading plain facts without any artistry. I do love Drizzt, and I will return to the next series eventually, but for now, I need to satisfy myself with a different writing style.
«You know Mielikki’s rules as well as I. You have been following them all of your life. I offer you a name for it, that is all, and an ideal of behavior personified, an example that you might follow in times that you stray from what you know is true.»
However, I feel like I need a break from the author's writing, even though I still plan to eventually finish Drizzt's life story. After some time, it's become apparent that something is lacking and at times it feels like reading plain facts without any artistry. I do love Drizzt, and I will return to the next series eventually, but for now, I need to satisfy myself with a different writing style.
Jujutsu Kaisen, Vol. 1 by Gege Akutami
dark
emotional
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
2.0
Okay, I'm giving up on this nightmare. It seems like the author doesn't know where this story is heading and has lost track of the magic system and the plot's purpose. The excessive suffering and killing off of characters feels pointless and wasteful. The fact that the author has to explain themselves every few chapters says it all. On the bright side, there are plenty of handsome characters here... who all end up dying... So, yeah, I will suffer no more.
Exile by R.A. Salvatore
adventurous
dark
emotional
sad
medium-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? No
4.0
«Spirit. In every language in all the Realms, surface and Underdark, in every time and every place, the word has a ring of strength and determination. It is the hero’s strength, the mother’s resilience, and the poor man’s arm. It cannot be broken, and it cannot be taken away.
This I must believe.»
At this point, Drizzt has truly become one of my favorite characters -- the typical Kaladin type -- a pure-hearted individual who faces life's toughest challenges. My heart goes out to him, and I hope he eventually finds his home and his people amidst all the adventures.
The book was really intense due to the constant pursuit of Malice's spirit-wraith. The part with the mindflayers was truly unnerving, and it made me despise these creatures even more than I did because of BG3. The way they can easily turn anyone, even a skilled warrior, into a thrall gives me shivers. However, despite already having an idea of how the fight with Zin-Carla would go, I still felt such an emotional impact from this encounter. So yeah, this made me enjoy the book even more. I can't wait to see how our dear dark elf fares outside of his usual habitat.
This I must believe.»
At this point, Drizzt has truly become one of my favorite characters -- the typical Kaladin type -- a pure-hearted individual who faces life's toughest challenges. My heart goes out to him, and I hope he eventually finds his home and his people amidst all the adventures.
The book was really intense due to the constant pursuit of Malice's spirit-wraith. The part with the mindflayers was truly unnerving, and it made me despise these creatures even more than I did because of BG3. The way they can easily turn anyone, even a skilled warrior, into a thrall gives me shivers. However, despite already having an idea of how the fight with Zin-Carla would go, I still felt such an emotional impact from this encounter. So yeah, this made me enjoy the book even more. I can't wait to see how our dear dark elf fares outside of his usual habitat.
Circe by Madeline Miller
4.0
"It is a common saying that women are delicate creatures, flowers, eggs, anything that may be crushed in a moment's carelessness. If I had ever believed it, I no longer did."
Sometimes I come across a book that isn't my usual preference, but I can still admire the author's writing talent and enjoy the read. This is especially true when it comes to Greek mythology. While I find myself drawn to the references and enjoy thinking about them, I also have a love-hate relationship with delving too deeply into the mythology itself.
"I was not surprised by the portrait of myself: the proud witch undone before the hero's sword, kneeling and begging for mercy. Humbling women seems to me a chief pastime of poets. As if there can be no story unless we crawl and weep."
This book highlights the various difficulties that women encounter throughout their lifetime. Even though she is a goddess, Circe is a character that many can relate to, as she goes through sadness, challenges, difficulties, anger, isolation, and bravery to safeguard those she cares for. While it is true that women are capable of carrying themselves, the book also suggests that we thrive with a reliable and trustworthy partner, something that I have always craved for myself.
"It was so simple. If you want it, I will do it. If it would make you happy, I will go with you. Is there a moment that a heart cracks?"
Towards the end of the book, I thought it would be a three-star read for me. However, the last chapter completely changed my mind. It was beautiful. One thing I dislike about Greek mythology is how the gods can be cruel and selfish, often toying with human lives. But Circe's choices throughout the book were a critique of the divine, and the way the last chapter presented her will was a true masterpiece.
"I thought once that gods are the opposite of death, but I see now they are more dead than anything, for they are unchanging, and can hold nothing in their hands."
Sometimes I come across a book that isn't my usual preference, but I can still admire the author's writing talent and enjoy the read. This is especially true when it comes to Greek mythology. While I find myself drawn to the references and enjoy thinking about them, I also have a love-hate relationship with delving too deeply into the mythology itself.
"I was not surprised by the portrait of myself: the proud witch undone before the hero's sword, kneeling and begging for mercy. Humbling women seems to me a chief pastime of poets. As if there can be no story unless we crawl and weep."
This book highlights the various difficulties that women encounter throughout their lifetime. Even though she is a goddess, Circe is a character that many can relate to, as she goes through sadness, challenges, difficulties, anger, isolation, and bravery to safeguard those she cares for. While it is true that women are capable of carrying themselves, the book also suggests that we thrive with a reliable and trustworthy partner, something that I have always craved for myself.
"It was so simple. If you want it, I will do it. If it would make you happy, I will go with you. Is there a moment that a heart cracks?"
Towards the end of the book, I thought it would be a three-star read for me. However, the last chapter completely changed my mind. It was beautiful. One thing I dislike about Greek mythology is how the gods can be cruel and selfish, often toying with human lives. But Circe's choices throughout the book were a critique of the divine, and the way the last chapter presented her will was a true masterpiece.
"I thought once that gods are the opposite of death, but I see now they are more dead than anything, for they are unchanging, and can hold nothing in their hands."
The Raven King by Maggie Stiefvater
5.0
I'm on the verge of wailing because I'm not ready to part with these characters just yet
The Raven Boys by Maggie Stiefvater
5.0
I have fond memories of reading this book nearly a decade ago, initially attracted to its raven-adorned cover. Upon delving into the pages, I was not disappointed; the characters and storyline immediately captured my heart.
Upon revisiting it after such a long time, I am overwhelmed with joy and nostalgia. The writing is expertly crafted, with multiple main characters and alternating narrators throughout each chapter. The plot is multi-dimensional, following Blue's journey to see if her true love will perish, Gansey's quest to uncover a buried Welsh king, Ronan's hidden secrets, and Adam's endeavors to achieve his goals. The story also delves into dark academia - featuring a prestigious school, Latin, and a bit of murder mystery. Adding to the intrigue, there is also a touch of magic and paranormal activity. As Gansey himself would attest, this book is truly "top shelf."
Upon revisiting it after such a long time, I am overwhelmed with joy and nostalgia. The writing is expertly crafted, with multiple main characters and alternating narrators throughout each chapter. The plot is multi-dimensional, following Blue's journey to see if her true love will perish, Gansey's quest to uncover a buried Welsh king, Ronan's hidden secrets, and Adam's endeavors to achieve his goals. The story also delves into dark academia - featuring a prestigious school, Latin, and a bit of murder mystery. Adding to the intrigue, there is also a touch of magic and paranormal activity. As Gansey himself would attest, this book is truly "top shelf."
The Dream Thieves by Maggie Stiefvater
4.0
I remember how the concept of Ronan's ability blew my mind when I first read this book. Even though I'm not so invested in car racing and fireworks (the whole Kavinsky part), the overall plot progress held me captive. Adam's been getting on my nerves, but there's an explanation for it. We're also introduced to a very conflicting character with a peculiar name - Mr. Gray, which totally lives up to his morally gray image. And our beautiful slow burn is finally slow-burning ❤️
Blue Lily, Lily Blue by Maggie Stiefvater
5.0
This one is one of my favorites in the series. No matter how absolutely magical, fantastical, and surreal the premise is, the human part of the characters feels so relatable. At this moment, you are deeply invested in their story, and they become like close friends. I love them so much