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48 reviews
Wicked Lovely by Melissa Marr
2.0
Aislinn has been hiding a secret her whole life: She can see fairies, and has resisted attracting their attention for as long as she can remember. Unlike popular belief, fairies are capable of mischief, torture, cruelty, and harm. Despite Aislinn’s best efforts, she found herself stalked by two fairies, Keenan and the Summer King, who had been seeking the lost Queen for decades. Donna, the Winter Girl and ex-lover of Keenan, who always suffered from Keenan’s betrayal. What chance did Aislinn have of being the Summer Queen Keenan was looking for? Which would she choose, a life as a fairy or a mortal life beside her love interest, Seth?
Let’s start with the positives. Marr’s fairy mythology concept intrigued me and I liked the ideas behind it. Although this book isn’t great by any means, her apparent grasp of fae lore and the interesting concept of Summer and Winter Courts makes it worth reading. My favorite parts of the book were the prologue and the quotes at the beginning of each chapter. I appreciate detailed research.
Why did it not work for me? It’s definitely the writing. This book seemed overly simplistic in its sentence structure, but I found the narration itself to be confusing. It was difficult to follow the flow of the sentences within the paragraphs. I didn't feel emotionally attached to any of the characters as well. Aislinn was annoying in the book but got better by the end. Seth was presented as good but had many sexual encounters, and Keenan was uninteresting.
The long-suffering Donia is the only character that holds my interest. It filled the relationship between her and Keenan with conflict and raw emotion, and it is the bright spot in the story for me. Donia’s strength and resilience in the face of adversity make her an interesting protagonist. I root for her and hoping for a happy ending. Her story arc is the most intriguing part of the narrative for me.
The first book of the Wicked Lovely series has potential, but the author had put little effort into making the most of them. In this book, the author shows she did not plan well before beginning the series. The characters are flat, and the world building is weak. As a result, the story lacks depth and does not draw me in.
This series is not something I would discourage anyone from reading. For me, Wicked Lovely didn’t work.
Let’s start with the positives. Marr’s fairy mythology concept intrigued me and I liked the ideas behind it. Although this book isn’t great by any means, her apparent grasp of fae lore and the interesting concept of Summer and Winter Courts makes it worth reading. My favorite parts of the book were the prologue and the quotes at the beginning of each chapter. I appreciate detailed research.
Why did it not work for me? It’s definitely the writing. This book seemed overly simplistic in its sentence structure, but I found the narration itself to be confusing. It was difficult to follow the flow of the sentences within the paragraphs. I didn't feel emotionally attached to any of the characters as well. Aislinn was annoying in the book but got better by the end. Seth was presented as good but had many sexual encounters, and Keenan was uninteresting.
The long-suffering Donia is the only character that holds my interest. It filled the relationship between her and Keenan with conflict and raw emotion, and it is the bright spot in the story for me. Donia’s strength and resilience in the face of adversity make her an interesting protagonist. I root for her and hoping for a happy ending. Her story arc is the most intriguing part of the narrative for me.
The first book of the Wicked Lovely series has potential, but the author had put little effort into making the most of them. In this book, the author shows she did not plan well before beginning the series. The characters are flat, and the world building is weak. As a result, the story lacks depth and does not draw me in.
This series is not something I would discourage anyone from reading. For me, Wicked Lovely didn’t work.
The Thirteen Problems by Agatha Christie
1.0
A group of people exchanging mystery stories at night, trying to figure out what took place, seemed quite interesting to me.
I find it hard to satisfy myself 100% with story collections - there will always be a few stories I enjoy more than others. This book is a good read, all things considered. Every story has a unique plot and interesting characters. It keeps you guessing until the end and is a great way to pass time.
Even though I like the character of Miss Marple, I don’t like short stories. I’m discovering that Agatha Christie is also not really my thing. The interactions between the friends were enjoyable, but the mysteries weren't. I could not focus on most of them because my mind wandered. I think I prefer longer books that allow me to really get into the characters and the story. Not only that, but I also prefer to take my time solving the mystery, instead of being rushed.
A story should allow me to enjoy the journey rather than being abruptly dropped off at the end. Shorter stories often rush the plot, making it difficult for readers to appreciate the characters and the story.
It was my first time reading Miss Marple, so I was a little disappointed.
I find it hard to satisfy myself 100% with story collections - there will always be a few stories I enjoy more than others. This book is a good read, all things considered. Every story has a unique plot and interesting characters. It keeps you guessing until the end and is a great way to pass time.
Even though I like the character of Miss Marple, I don’t like short stories. I’m discovering that Agatha Christie is also not really my thing. The interactions between the friends were enjoyable, but the mysteries weren't. I could not focus on most of them because my mind wandered. I think I prefer longer books that allow me to really get into the characters and the story. Not only that, but I also prefer to take my time solving the mystery, instead of being rushed.
A story should allow me to enjoy the journey rather than being abruptly dropped off at the end. Shorter stories often rush the plot, making it difficult for readers to appreciate the characters and the story.
It was my first time reading Miss Marple, so I was a little disappointed.
JoJo's Bizarre Adventure: Part 1—Phantom Blood, Vol. 1 by Hirohiko Araki
2.0
A youtuber recommended this series. I will admit that I am confused by the hype surrounding this series. It was... okay?
As much as I wanted to like the first volume, I was not as intrigued by it. It’s just your typical “boys’ adventure” story. Jonathan and Dio battle for Joestar family inheritance in the 1880s England, with 1980s-style fight scenes until they turn 19. The book's plot revolves around an Aztec mask with powers that appear halfway through the book..
The characters in this volume were extremely two-dimensional. Jonathan’s arc bored me because of naivety. Dio’s lack of any depth beyond “I AM THE VILLAIN OF THIS PLOT” kept me from sinking into the plot at all. I felt like there was nowhere to grow, which was a confusing vibe to present, considering it’s the first installment.
This story feels choppy, as if someone gathered and bound several comic books from a series, despite missing some parts.
Almost everyone agrees that this part of the series is not the best... but it doesn’t pique my interest in continuing.
As much as I wanted to like the first volume, I was not as intrigued by it. It’s just your typical “boys’ adventure” story. Jonathan and Dio battle for Joestar family inheritance in the 1880s England, with 1980s-style fight scenes until they turn 19. The book's plot revolves around an Aztec mask with powers that appear halfway through the book..
The characters in this volume were extremely two-dimensional. Jonathan’s arc bored me because of naivety. Dio’s lack of any depth beyond “I AM THE VILLAIN OF THIS PLOT” kept me from sinking into the plot at all. I felt like there was nowhere to grow, which was a confusing vibe to present, considering it’s the first installment.
This story feels choppy, as if someone gathered and bound several comic books from a series, despite missing some parts.
Almost everyone agrees that this part of the series is not the best... but it doesn’t pique my interest in continuing.
Dark Prince by Christine Feehan
1.0
Mikhail Dubrinsky is the leader of the Carpathians, an ancient ethnic group whose female population is rapidly shrinking. After helping catch a serial killer with her telepathic skills, Raven Whitney, a human, is vacationing in the Carpathian Mountains. Raven sensed Mikhail’s distress, and the two realize they share a connection. In Mikhail’s eyes, Raven represents hope for the Carpathians, as she may be the life mate he thought he’d never find.
Despite being aware of Christine Feehan's books, I wasn't impressed with the Dark Prince.. Narrative style was the first problem.I’ve had trouble understanding endless text on more than one occasion. Dark Prince is crammed full of emotional descriptions, and it repeats itself endlessly. It forced readers to sit through repetitive scenes in the emotional recount.. They used stock phrases every time. I started thinking the book would never end.
Mikhail’s treatment of Raven was another issue. The situation was infuriating. If he continued to infantilize her, I would accuse him of pedophilia. He calls her “little one,” as if she were a toddler. The sex scenes make her sound like a child, with her “soft whimpers,” “keening cries,” and “sobbing breath.” He sometimes speaks to her in a childish tone, and she fills his mind with childlike laughter.
Raven objected to Mikhail's attempt to intimidate her. Although she's called smart, she doesn't see through Mikhail's seductive talk.
There was also the whole issue of the men lacking emotions. Though it’s an interesting twist, I don’t buy it. Without feelings, how can men feel loyalty or honor? Without emotional bonds, they would all be psychopathic loners.
Although I’m aware of how popular this series is, I don’t think it’s for me. Mikhail and Raven’s twisted relationship does not appeal to me, and I don’t want to read any more about it. It’s hard to imagine how any woman would find this sexy.
Despite being aware of Christine Feehan's books, I wasn't impressed with the Dark Prince.. Narrative style was the first problem.I’ve had trouble understanding endless text on more than one occasion. Dark Prince is crammed full of emotional descriptions, and it repeats itself endlessly. It forced readers to sit through repetitive scenes in the emotional recount.. They used stock phrases every time. I started thinking the book would never end.
Mikhail’s treatment of Raven was another issue. The situation was infuriating. If he continued to infantilize her, I would accuse him of pedophilia. He calls her “little one,” as if she were a toddler. The sex scenes make her sound like a child, with her “soft whimpers,” “keening cries,” and “sobbing breath.” He sometimes speaks to her in a childish tone, and she fills his mind with childlike laughter.
Raven objected to Mikhail's attempt to intimidate her. Although she's called smart, she doesn't see through Mikhail's seductive talk.
There was also the whole issue of the men lacking emotions. Though it’s an interesting twist, I don’t buy it. Without feelings, how can men feel loyalty or honor? Without emotional bonds, they would all be psychopathic loners.
Although I’m aware of how popular this series is, I don’t think it’s for me. Mikhail and Raven’s twisted relationship does not appeal to me, and I don’t want to read any more about it. It’s hard to imagine how any woman would find this sexy.
Death at Wentwater Court by Carola Dunn
3.0
Daisy Dalrymple is heading to Wentwater Court. She will stay there while writing about the estate for Town and Country magazine. She doesn’t expect to walk into a death. At first glance, it appears to be an accident, but several things don’t seem right. This leads to an investigation. Upon further investigation, it turns out to be much more serious.
The murder mystery failed to gain traction as it relied on confession, not investigation, to reveal the solution. It was also disappointing that the author let everyone off so easily in the end. Or maybe I just prefer murder mysteries that are darker.
It would have been nice if some characters were less clichéd cutouts and added more to the story.
While the author's use of aristocratic slang can be ridiculous, it shows she did her research. Although I enjoyed this book, I'm unsure if I'll read the rest of the series..
Conclusion: This may suit cosy mystery readers, but I find it lacking in inspiration.
The murder mystery failed to gain traction as it relied on confession, not investigation, to reveal the solution. It was also disappointing that the author let everyone off so easily in the end. Or maybe I just prefer murder mysteries that are darker.
It would have been nice if some characters were less clichéd cutouts and added more to the story.
While the author's use of aristocratic slang can be ridiculous, it shows she did her research. Although I enjoyed this book, I'm unsure if I'll read the rest of the series..
Conclusion: This may suit cosy mystery readers, but I find it lacking in inspiration.
The Night She Went Missing by Kristen Bird
3.0
High school senior Emily comes from a renowned family in her Texas community. One night, she goes missing after watching a movie with friends.
Catherine, her mom, is very worried, which is understandable.. She believes that Emily may have been harmed by an acquaintance.. There are two other women in town who suspect as well.
Which of them is true?
Finding Emily at the beginning of the story causes the loss of suspense. Considering the tale, I debated whether that was the right choice. A story told from the perspective of multiple characters: Emily, reminiscing about what led her to the present, when she is rescued but lying comatose in the hospital. The other points of view are those of Catherine, Emily’s mother, and Leslie and Morgan, mothers of students Emily attends school with. As the story unfolds, the characters reveal secrets, lies, concealment, and denials.
The story starts well. It tells the story of a family that moved from Oregon to Galveston after a scandal. Emily is a senior in high school and attends a prestigious private school owned by her grandmother. + One night, she disappears at a party. At the halfway point in the book, she disappears, and things go south.
There is strange behavior that people do, as if straight out of a terrible movie. It makes little sense why these things are done. In retrospect, it seems even more outrageous. I kept reading to find out how things ended.
Overall, I wouldn’t recommend this one.
Catherine, her mom, is very worried, which is understandable.. She believes that Emily may have been harmed by an acquaintance.. There are two other women in town who suspect as well.
Which of them is true?
Finding Emily at the beginning of the story causes the loss of suspense. Considering the tale, I debated whether that was the right choice. A story told from the perspective of multiple characters: Emily, reminiscing about what led her to the present, when she is rescued but lying comatose in the hospital. The other points of view are those of Catherine, Emily’s mother, and Leslie and Morgan, mothers of students Emily attends school with. As the story unfolds, the characters reveal secrets, lies, concealment, and denials.
The story starts well. It tells the story of a family that moved from Oregon to Galveston after a scandal. Emily is a senior in high school and attends a prestigious private school owned by her grandmother. + One night, she disappears at a party. At the halfway point in the book, she disappears, and things go south.
There is strange behavior that people do, as if straight out of a terrible movie. It makes little sense why these things are done. In retrospect, it seems even more outrageous. I kept reading to find out how things ended.
Overall, I wouldn’t recommend this one.
Get Shorty by Elmore Leonard
2.0
My response is that either I do not understand this book or it isn't very good. The characters behaved like no human beings I've ever met or read about. What happens when a hoodlum breaks into a house in the middle of the night? Does the owner call the police? He gets entangled in a very long and meandering conversation about movies.
The discussion leads to several tense situations. Chili is a stone-cold gangster who knows how to handle every situation. The man outwits, outfights, and out talks everyone. It's a boring story with an unlikable character and too little at stake.
Towards the end of the book, there were some hilarious parts, but not enough for me to enjoy it.
The discussion leads to several tense situations. Chili is a stone-cold gangster who knows how to handle every situation. The man outwits, outfights, and out talks everyone. It's a boring story with an unlikable character and too little at stake.
Towards the end of the book, there were some hilarious parts, but not enough for me to enjoy it.
A Good Girl's Guide to Murder by Holly Jackson
2.0
The real question is, why did I read this? This has bad writing, an unrealistic plot, the "white savior" trope, the "I'm not like other girls" cliche, and the most irritating main character ever.
Pip’s feelings are the focus of the book, as well as resolving her situation. No one examined or acknowledged the casual racism displayed by all parties as a factor in blaming an innocent person of color for a crime he didn't commit. There is no justice in the story for the Singh family, but closure for Pip.
As for the mystery itself, it was hardly a mystery at all. The pacing was off, things made no sense, and everything was terribly convenient. Pip's investigation involved many random decisions and suspicions until she finally guessed correctly. It was at that point in the book that I was simply counting down how many pages remained.
Pip's only personality trait was her desire to help others, which was emphasized throughout the book. There’s never any explanation given for why these people talk to Pip and tell her all about their lives, or even why she would launch such an investigation. At the end of the novel, her character is still exactly the same as when we first met her.
It’s a shame that I read this. A waste of time and clearly not for me.
Pip’s feelings are the focus of the book, as well as resolving her situation. No one examined or acknowledged the casual racism displayed by all parties as a factor in blaming an innocent person of color for a crime he didn't commit. There is no justice in the story for the Singh family, but closure for Pip.
As for the mystery itself, it was hardly a mystery at all. The pacing was off, things made no sense, and everything was terribly convenient. Pip's investigation involved many random decisions and suspicions until she finally guessed correctly. It was at that point in the book that I was simply counting down how many pages remained.
Pip's only personality trait was her desire to help others, which was emphasized throughout the book. There’s never any explanation given for why these people talk to Pip and tell her all about their lives, or even why she would launch such an investigation. At the end of the novel, her character is still exactly the same as when we first met her.
It’s a shame that I read this. A waste of time and clearly not for me.
Shadowmarch: Shadowmarch: Volume I by Tad Williams, Tad Williams
1.0
The pace is far too slow for such a lengthy book (or perhaps I’m just an impatient reader...), and until the point that I stopped reading (around one-fifth of the way in), I was feeling that the plot just wasn’t developing at all.
The characters in this book should be interesting to me, right? There are simply too many protagonists here, which means none of them get the development time they need to be interesting. To me, protagonists don't need to be likable. An unlikable character can still be captivating. Most of these main characters aren't very likable.
This book is merely the first act of a much larger story, which is fueling all other problems. The purpose of the first book is to do just that! The plot also doesn’t have a lot of forward motion, and apart from a single murder that occurs near the beginning, it resolves nothing else.
It feels like I’ve just read a 750-page prologue, and that’s not good.
A waste of time.
The characters in this book should be interesting to me, right? There are simply too many protagonists here, which means none of them get the development time they need to be interesting. To me, protagonists don't need to be likable. An unlikable character can still be captivating. Most of these main characters aren't very likable.
This book is merely the first act of a much larger story, which is fueling all other problems. The purpose of the first book is to do just that! The plot also doesn’t have a lot of forward motion, and apart from a single murder that occurs near the beginning, it resolves nothing else.
It feels like I’ve just read a 750-page prologue, and that’s not good.
A waste of time.
Dark Lover by J.R. Ward
1.0
There is nothing good about this book.
The story is a badly written, smut filled “romance” with an asshole hero and a heroine who makes women look like idiots who can’t control themselves around men.
My biggest issue is with the Brotherhood itself. The vampires in this book are big, listen to rap, and dress tough, but their names are really dumb. Why are they adding letters to their names to give them vampire street credibility? Vampires have their own traditions, customs, and language. Their names, however, read like those of pre-teen goth girls picking names for their future children. There is even one human, but it has an uninteresting name: Butch.
Despite the amount of explicit sex in these books, they do not feel very erotic. There was an extremely unlikely love-at-first-sight experience in the book followed by smut. Unlikable characters lead to no emotional investment in their fate. My honest opinion of this book is that I have read far better fan fiction online.
Still baffled by everyone else’s glowing reviews. Dark Lover features terrible writing, clichéd romance, and male characters with teenage-girl speaking styles. For fans of trashy romance books, this is perfect, but for those who enjoy horror and fantasy, skip this nauseating, sophomoric read.
The story is a badly written, smut filled “romance” with an asshole hero and a heroine who makes women look like idiots who can’t control themselves around men.
My biggest issue is with the Brotherhood itself. The vampires in this book are big, listen to rap, and dress tough, but their names are really dumb. Why are they adding letters to their names to give them vampire street credibility? Vampires have their own traditions, customs, and language. Their names, however, read like those of pre-teen goth girls picking names for their future children. There is even one human, but it has an uninteresting name: Butch.
Despite the amount of explicit sex in these books, they do not feel very erotic. There was an extremely unlikely love-at-first-sight experience in the book followed by smut. Unlikable characters lead to no emotional investment in their fate. My honest opinion of this book is that I have read far better fan fiction online.
Still baffled by everyone else’s glowing reviews. Dark Lover features terrible writing, clichéd romance, and male characters with teenage-girl speaking styles. For fans of trashy romance books, this is perfect, but for those who enjoy horror and fantasy, skip this nauseating, sophomoric read.