noisydeadlines's reviews
688 reviews

The Raven Tower by Ann Leckie

slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? No
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

2.0

The Vor Game by Lois McMaster Bujold

adventurous funny relaxing 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? It's complicated

4.0

Another one in the Vorkosigan series that is super fun to read. It's a mix of great fast paced writing, absurdly fun plots and excellent character development. Miles Vorkosigan is such an awesome character, I read this book because of him. He just can't help getting into trouble, even though he tries to stay away from it sometimes. In this one Miles is sent to a cold remote military base where he acts as the weather man, but of course shenanigans happen that gets him back at the center of political/military intrigues and the mercenary fleet he once was part of.  It's great fun full of twists and turns.

Snowed in with the Alien Pilot by Mina Carter

3.0

The Reluctant Viking by Sandra Hill
Did not finish book.

Time travel done very simplistically, didn’t like the writing style 

Never Love a Highlander by Maya Banks
Did not finish book. Stopped at 7%.

Again, didn’t like the writing style. Dialogues seem weird. 

What Fresh Hell is This? Perimenopause, Menopause, Other Indignities, and You—a Guide by Heather Corinna

funny informative slow-paced

5.0

I enjoyed how the book maintained a light, humorous tone while still being honest and informative.  The chapters covering symptoms, issues, and expected changes were dense, requiring me to take breaks between reading sessions. It did feel a bit repetitive in the middle. But the author does a great job of explaining all the terms and concepts and also being compassionate and thoughtful.  For anyone navigating perimenopause or menopause, the book can feel overwhelming at times. In summary, I loved the final message of the book which is to practice "extreme self care". All good advice in general: have a healthy diet, exercise, meditate, do yoga, journal, or engage in whatever makes you feel good. Simplify your life, reduce responsibilities, and communicate your experiences with those around you. It's not fun, but we will get to the other side. I felt seen and the book helped me let go of preconceptions about this phase of life.

In Bed with a Highlander by Maya Banks
Did not finish book. Stopped at 3%.

The premisse is a woman taken by force by a highlander. I didn’t like the tone, the way rape was suggested right from the start.

The Chief by Monica McCarty
Did not finish book. Stopped at 9%.

Didn’t like the writing style, didn’t click

Once Upon a Winter's Eve by Tessa Dare

funny lighthearted fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes

3.0

This a novella in the Spindle Cove series and I thought it was okay. It a second chance type romance between with an identity mystery that is quickly revealed (and obvious!) in the book. I didn't like that the male character (Christian) felt so entitled to her (Violet) and initially ignored her feelings. 

Deep End by Ali Hazelwood

emotional hopeful lighthearted fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

I love Ali Hazelwood books, it's the only author I truly enjoy reading contemporary romance. This one is about college athletes, a competitive diver (Scarlett Vandermeer) and an Olympic medal swimmer (Lukas Blomqvist). I loved the smart banter between them and how there was a lot of talk and support around mental health issues. Also, it starts with mostly a sexual relationship, and the romance builds after that.  It explores power exchange sexual dynamics and I thought it was interesting to see the connection between the drive for these power dynamics and personal experiences. I love how this author takes romance a step further with lots of emotional depth.