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nostoat's reviews
977 reviews
Wooing the Witch Queen by Stephanie Burgis
5.0
I finished this book with a huge smile on my face. Is it silly at times? Absolutely! But it also gives each character depth and vulnerability that makes them sing. I adored following our mains. Stories of people achieving freedom and power after a lifetime of being locked away always fill me with so much joy. And that sex scene was hoooooot, WHEW.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death of parent
Moderate: Child abuse and Physical abuse
Advertising Shits in Your Head by Matt Bonner, Vyvian Raoul
3.5
This book has good information on the concept and history of "subvertising" an activism practice in which advertisements are replaced, removed, or defaced. It also showcases some tips for how to take part yourself. Ultimately, this book has a very optimistic view of the practice and dismisses very quickly and with little consideration some critiques. I don't necessarily think it's wrong to do so but I would have liked a book that took a little more time with the subject. It's a good intro though, and perhaps that's all it sets out to be!
Emily Wilde's Compendium of Lost Tales by Heather Fawcett
5.0
This series is the gift that keeps on giving! Fawcett has gotten better and better at pacing and plotting with each book in the series, and this one truly shines. I loved as well seeing Emily's growing collection of allies both mortal and Fae showcased throughout, the relationships in these books feel so real.
Heaven by Emerson Whitney
Did not finish book. Stopped at 25%.
Did not finish book. Stopped at 25%.
due to recent developments in my relationship with my mother this is excruciating to read. will revisit one day
The Ornithologist's Field Guide to Love by India Holton
Did not finish book. Stopped at 16%.
Did not finish book. Stopped at 16%.
This is super unfortunate. The tone of this book is VERY particular, a very intense farce tone that won't be for everyone but I thought I'd enjoy it as an easy read...until in chapter 4 a side character who is clearly being set up for a romance with the protagonist's fieldwork partner says to her (content warning, this read to me like sexual harassment at the minimum): "Just wait woman! ... Mein Gott! I'll have you over my knee yet, and then you'll know a beating like you've never had before!" I have no idea how to read this with the tone of the book. I think it's supposed to be funny? But it completely stopped me in my tracks. Even though the characters are shocked the tone of the book just isn't...in any way suited for something like this to be said?? And I couldn't help spinning out thinking about whether the author was then going to try to convince me these two could then fall in love. Thankfully it wasn't the mains, but still, I know a set-up when I see one.
I might be overreacting but I just..can't.
I might be overreacting but I just..can't.
What Angels Fear: A Sebastian St. Cyr Mystery by C.S. Harris
4.5
There was something in the writing style that kind of bothered me but I couldn't put my finger on it, so it loses a bit for that. I'm very compelled by the character of Sebastian, and by this setup of a series of mysteries that have Implications (whether our protagonist can be bothered to care or not). Also adored the quick loyalty and kindness forged between Tom and Sebastian. I love a scrappy street youth side character. This was a very solid book but I suspect with time either a) this series will improve just that bit more to be fantastic or b) it'll stay about the same and either way it's enjoyable.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Gore, and Rape
No one is raped on-page but the victim was assaulted and it is discussed repeatedly and often with detail.