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paupereads's reviews
49 reviews
Just Kids by Patti Smith
emotional
inspiring
reflective
sad
slow-paced
3.0
First, non-fiction in 2024, and it is the memoir of Patti Smith. I didn't know her at first, but I saw her book anywhere. And, it makes me want to know her story. There is nothing too much to say, since it is a non-fiction, I love to follow Patti Smith and Robert relationship towards years, how both each other gives much love and support together.
A Tempest of Tea by Hafsah Faizal
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
mysterious
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
Its vampire meets a tea, what's happened next? I love to say that a Tempest Of Tea makes a good concept to mixing up about fantasy, adventurous, and mysterious. This is the first novel I read from the author and gives predictable feedback. I can tell I will have a love-hate relationship since beginning I started to read.
Arthie, a cunning orphan, runs a tea room by day and a forbidden bloodhouse by night. When her world is threatened, she assembles a ragtag crew for a daring heist into the glittering vampire society. But loyalties are murky, and Arthie finds herself caught in a conspiracy that could shatter everything.
Before that, I wanted to mention characters that appear a lot. They are, Arthie is described as a strong girl, dark, and stunning. She has a power (not kind of a real power. But, everyone knows She's not weak). Jin, unbiological Arthie's brother, funny, and loyal. Flick is recruited for her skills in forgery, likely due to her background from a high-society family (And, also her mother has a some kind of important roles). Laith, a boy from Arawiya who has his own reason there. Matteo, a vampire. And, Pann will appear in act two as a vampire who has a kind of relationship with Arthie (not in a romantic way).
And, Arthie's adventures with her crew are begins.
The storyline divided into three acts. 1st acts explained a lot about the world building, a situation was happening there, a reason of Arthie and Jin did that, a agreement, recruitment for crew, and also the plans. It is a slow paced storyline, I almost got bored. The author seems like want to give us more time to give us a strong background story, but, ended up some people will thinking it is a waste of time. It's not that bad after all. It just affected into the next acts.
Moving into the 2nd acts, the story began! I love the action things. The tension of the situation that happens made me thrilled. Jin has so much pain here, but I'm glad to know some secret has been revealed. And, I got goosebumps for a second. In this, I think I love how the author can connect the every dot. Something happens for a rational reason. So, every story before also has other stories from different perspectives. It gives every character that comes to having a relationship that looks vague on the front, but in reality, it is quite strong.
In the 3rd acts, the conflicts become bigger, and we are moving into another secret that revealed. What's pain in the past? What's the other reason behind this? Who is the real indetity of every character? Also, the authors added some good twists.
But, because there's no strong character developments, some chapters seem lacking. For me, it's happened in two chapters between Arthie and Laith. If in the beginning there's some parts that can show their strong relationships, at least a little chemistry from them, in the some parts what's happening will become more emotional. Sadly, I can't empathize with that. But, I love a little romance for Jin and Flick. And Matteo is such a potential character, but he apparence like a shadow.
It would be great in the act one we can get more story about the characters more depper, so, at least when an important part shows up, at least we can cleary undestand the reason why the characters says or acts.
I do not have a problem with a predictable plot, I just wish it could become a good plot if it can be explained well.
I still like this one, I still can enjoy everything, especially the actions. And, also the twits. But, I really hope in the next book it is become more better.
Arthie, a cunning orphan, runs a tea room by day and a forbidden bloodhouse by night. When her world is threatened, she assembles a ragtag crew for a daring heist into the glittering vampire society. But loyalties are murky, and Arthie finds herself caught in a conspiracy that could shatter everything.
Before that, I wanted to mention characters that appear a lot. They are, Arthie is described as a strong girl, dark, and stunning. She has a power (not kind of a real power. But, everyone knows She's not weak). Jin, unbiological Arthie's brother, funny, and loyal. Flick is recruited for her skills in forgery, likely due to her background from a high-society family (And, also her mother has a some kind of important roles). Laith, a boy from Arawiya who has his own reason there. Matteo, a vampire. And, Pann will appear in act two as a vampire who has a kind of relationship with Arthie (not in a romantic way).
And, Arthie's adventures with her crew are begins.
The storyline divided into three acts. 1st acts explained a lot about the world building, a situation was happening there, a reason of Arthie and Jin did that, a agreement, recruitment for crew, and also the plans. It is a slow paced storyline, I almost got bored. The author seems like want to give us more time to give us a strong background story, but, ended up some people will thinking it is a waste of time. It's not that bad after all. It just affected into the next acts.
Moving into the 2nd acts, the story began! I love the action things. The tension of the situation that happens made me thrilled. Jin has so much pain here, but I'm glad to know some secret has been revealed. And, I got goosebumps for a second. In this, I think I love how the author can connect the every dot. Something happens for a rational reason. So, every story before also has other stories from different perspectives. It gives every character that comes to having a relationship that looks vague on the front, but in reality, it is quite strong.
In the 3rd acts, the conflicts become bigger, and we are moving into another secret that revealed. What's pain in the past? What's the other reason behind this? Who is the real indetity of every character? Also, the authors added some good twists.
But, because there's no strong character developments, some chapters seem lacking. For me, it's happened in two chapters between Arthie and Laith. If in the beginning there's some parts that can show their strong relationships, at least a little chemistry from them, in the some parts what's happening will become more emotional. Sadly, I can't empathize with that. But, I love a little romance for Jin and Flick. And Matteo is such a potential character, but he apparence like a shadow.
It would be great in the act one we can get more story about the characters more depper, so, at least when an important part shows up, at least we can cleary undestand the reason why the characters says or acts.
I do not have a problem with a predictable plot, I just wish it could become a good plot if it can be explained well.
I still like this one, I still can enjoy everything, especially the actions. And, also the twits. But, I really hope in the next book it is become more better.
Rouge by Mona Awad
Because of the first-person perspective, I find it challenging to grasp the broader narrative and the world it presents. This is also happened when I was reading Bunny. I struggle to fully trust the protagonist, which hinders my empathy for her due to her seemingly stubborn and immature behavior. However, considering this is a world created by Mona Awad, it's safe to assume that unconventional occurrences are to be expected.
In my opinion, as a cult, they brainwash chosen individuals into becoming objects of adoration, only to exploit them for their own purposes, culminating in cannibalism at the end. They believe this ritual somehow enhances their beauty. I found this part quite repulsive, especially considering Belle's eagerness to fulfill their twisted desires. The methods they employ are truly sickening.
The treatments I mentioned earlier gradually altered her physical appearance, eventually causing her to perceive things beyond reality. In this section, I appreciate how Mona Awad employs mirrors to reflect Belle's distorted perception of the world, unseen by others.
The part I didn't like the most...... was the flashback to Belle's 10-year-old self and her obsession with Tom Curse. I found it quite ridiculous. Tom Curse is an adult character, and this infatuation is represented through her interactions with a character named Seth.
Young Belle first encountered Seth in her mother's mirror. While he could be dismissed as an imaginary friend, his appearances seemed too real at times. Don't try to convince me to like him - I never did from the start. He played on Belle's insecurities, whispering that her mother stole her beauty, leaving her with lasting emotional damage. Interestingly, he later resembled a leader at the mysterious Rouge spa.
He is manipulative.
There is one characters, a mysterious man named Hed Hudson, who calls himself "Detective Beauty." Surprisingly, he reveals he shares Belle's situation - his own sibling has also passed away. Despite Belle's resistance, even when she pushes him away, Hed remains determined to save her. Unlike Seth, he isn't a jerk.
However, I also believe that Belle orchestrated her rescue at the end, after realizing that the Red Jellyfish following her was her mother.
Unlike Bunny, which blends fairy-tale elements with fantastical narratives, Rouge delivers a more definitive conclusion. The resolution effectively portrays the emotional connection between Belle and her mother, providing a satisfyingly heartwarming ending within its own unique context.
dark
emotional
mysterious
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
TRIGGER WARNING; grief, racism, cannibalism, toxic family dynamics, violence, grooming. May be triggering for those that struggle with self-image.
disclaimers; I am not good at remembering all the words that relate to her, but, I will try to explain it on my own.
Mona Awad is known as a writer who has her way of making readers feel weird after reading her books, the world she creates always provides her perspective on reality. I always loved her writing style since Bunny. Rouge becomes a second book from her that I finished, the premise caught my attention. Who isn't curious to know about the effect of obsession towards skincare?
Mirabelle, also known as Belle, the protagonist, returns to her hometown due to her mother's death. She has a complex relationship with her mother that cannot be simply classified as toxic; she loves her. However, she also harbored a secret jealousy of her mother's beauty. Unfortunately, her mother left behind debts, forcing Belle to sell the apartment to pay them off. However, she uncovers her mother's secret connected to a mirror, which leads her to a beauty spa called Rouge. The conflict revolves around past memories, the mother's secrets, and their connection to this beauty cult. It also explores how these factors unknowingly plunge Belle into an obsession with her mother's image and influence.
Then, what happened to Belle?
She dragged herself deeper into a secret that made her obsession slowly make her lose her identity, however, In my opinion, she always seemed lost from the start. Perhaps it was because she always saw her mother as a perfect figure, leaving her without the foundation to form her independent thoughts. This was quite bothersome to me, as it prevented her from escaping her mother's shadow.
When Belle discovered the Rouge, a glint of triumph flickered in her eyes, like a victor who had unearthed a long-sought treasure. "Mom, this is your secret, isn't it?" she gasped. As the townspeople acknowledged her beauty, recognizing her as Noelle's daughter, a flicker of pleasure danced across her face. It seemed like a secret yearning was finally fulfilled.
disclaimers; I am not good at remembering all the words that relate to her, but, I will try to explain it on my own.
Mona Awad is known as a writer who has her way of making readers feel weird after reading her books, the world she creates always provides her perspective on reality. I always loved her writing style since Bunny. Rouge becomes a second book from her that I finished, the premise caught my attention. Who isn't curious to know about the effect of obsession towards skincare?
Mirabelle, also known as Belle, the protagonist, returns to her hometown due to her mother's death. She has a complex relationship with her mother that cannot be simply classified as toxic; she loves her. However, she also harbored a secret jealousy of her mother's beauty. Unfortunately, her mother left behind debts, forcing Belle to sell the apartment to pay them off. However, she uncovers her mother's secret connected to a mirror, which leads her to a beauty spa called Rouge. The conflict revolves around past memories, the mother's secrets, and their connection to this beauty cult. It also explores how these factors unknowingly plunge Belle into an obsession with her mother's image and influence.
Then, what happened to Belle?
She dragged herself deeper into a secret that made her obsession slowly make her lose her identity, however, In my opinion, she always seemed lost from the start. Perhaps it was because she always saw her mother as a perfect figure, leaving her without the foundation to form her independent thoughts. This was quite bothersome to me, as it prevented her from escaping her mother's shadow.
When Belle discovered the Rouge, a glint of triumph flickered in her eyes, like a victor who had unearthed a long-sought treasure. "Mom, this is your secret, isn't it?" she gasped. As the townspeople acknowledged her beauty, recognizing her as Noelle's daughter, a flicker of pleasure danced across her face. It seemed like a secret yearning was finally fulfilled.
“Didn't you envy? Didn't you want? A mirror is only a mirror, Belle. It only ever reflects back what we desire and long for.”
Because of the first-person perspective, I find it challenging to grasp the broader narrative and the world it presents. This is also happened when I was reading Bunny. I struggle to fully trust the protagonist, which hinders my empathy for her due to her seemingly stubborn and immature behavior. However, considering this is a world created by Mona Awad, it's safe to assume that unconventional occurrences are to be expected.
The Rouge isn't a typical beauty spa. It's actually called La Maison de Méduse (French for "The House of Medusa"), and it serves as a central element in the story, shrouded in mystery and harboring a dark secret. The spa is shrouded in secrecy and appears to be quite exclusive. La Maison de Méduse seems to cater to an extreme obsession with beauty and anti-aging. The spa promises transformative experiences, but the true nature of these transformations remains unclear throughout the novel.
They call Belle a perfect candidate like her mother leads her to her most magnificent self and gives her free treatment.
They call Belle a perfect candidate like her mother leads her to her most magnificent self and gives her free treatment.
“The only journey that matters in the end, Daughter of Noelle.”
“Retinol?” I whisper.
“The soul. A journey of the soul, of course.”
In my opinion, as a cult, they brainwash chosen individuals into becoming objects of adoration, only to exploit them for their own purposes, culminating in cannibalism at the end. They believe this ritual somehow enhances their beauty. I found this part quite repulsive, especially considering Belle's eagerness to fulfill their twisted desires. The methods they employ are truly sickening.
“We? She must not see that I’m with you, Mother. She must not see you in the shop glass or she must think we’re one and the same. We look so much like each other today, it’s true. Esther doesn’t seem to see very well. Completely immune to the abomination in the window display.”
The treatments I mentioned earlier gradually altered her physical appearance, eventually causing her to perceive things beyond reality. In this section, I appreciate how Mona Awad employs mirrors to reflect Belle's distorted perception of the world, unseen by others.
The part I didn't like the most...... was the flashback to Belle's 10-year-old self and her obsession with Tom Curse. I found it quite ridiculous. Tom Curse is an adult character, and this infatuation is represented through her interactions with a character named Seth.
Young Belle first encountered Seth in her mother's mirror. While he could be dismissed as an imaginary friend, his appearances seemed too real at times. Don't try to convince me to like him - I never did from the start. He played on Belle's insecurities, whispering that her mother stole her beauty, leaving her with lasting emotional damage. Interestingly, he later resembled a leader at the mysterious Rouge spa.
He is manipulative.
"Who crept into Mother’s closet where she said not to go? Who turned the mirror around? I didn’t make you do anything. I just saw what was inside you, seedling. Saw you tell it in the eyes of mud. You want to know what was in that red powder? You. Your dark feelings about Mother. Want. Hate. Envy. That’s what poisoned the roses. Poisoned Mother, sad to say. That’s what made the red dust.” “No.”
There is one characters, a mysterious man named Hed Hudson, who calls himself "Detective Beauty." Surprisingly, he reveals he shares Belle's situation - his own sibling has also passed away. Despite Belle's resistance, even when she pushes him away, Hed remains determined to save her. Unlike Seth, he isn't a jerk.
However, I also believe that Belle orchestrated her rescue at the end, after realizing that the Red Jellyfish following her was her mother.
Unlike Bunny, which blends fairy-tale elements with fantastical narratives, Rouge delivers a more definitive conclusion. The resolution effectively portrays the emotional connection between Belle and her mother, providing a satisfyingly heartwarming ending within its own unique context.
Just for the Summer by Abby Jimenez
An issue comes from their family become a concern of their relationship, Justin has a mother who has to go to prison because of a fraud case, and he is forced to be a single parent with his three siblings, he is stuck unable to go anywhere. Meanwhile, Emma has a problematic mother. Emma's trauma made her choose not to stay in one place for too long. Amber's appearanc in Minnesota and her relationship with Emma's boss make the situation even more complicated, which ultimately makes Emma's trust even more crumbling.
Emma and Justin are not perfect humans, it all shows how they can still fall and get tired of circumstances. However, how both deal with everything is considered mature. Moreover, each of them tries to accept the difficult situation and tries to complement each other even in the context of a short relationship.
Justin is not scared to show his feelings. Even though he knows emma might not accept it, he still does that. We can't also blame Emma if she's denied. She's also love Justin, but her trust issue, a complex situation, forced her to choose other options at that time.
The dual POV helped me a lot to see two different perspectives. The things I like are both showing a development in every character.
In the chapter 40, there's a twist that leads into a conflict. And, it's also affected into their relationship. And, I also found a beautiful words;
Justin never forced her, and Emma never pushed herself to get hurt. Both know when to stop. They need a space to heal. Even if they want to stay, they know it won't work. In this moment, I am so touched!
I think It's a fast paced story, But I do not think the chemistry bad. The ending was good, I love it!
Adds-on;
emotional
funny
inspiring
relaxing
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
ABBY's spices up this 2024's summer with an adult relationship story in stranger-lovers, meet cute, dual POV, and forced proximity tropes. Added a families complex problems and connected it with a mental health issue make Just For The Summer become complicated.
Justin got viral in Reddit because he had a good luck charm, and his exes got their true love after breaking up with him. Emma, who has the same situation, texts him. Then, a conversation leads them into a fake relationship for four weeks, one kiss, and one breakup to break the curse. And, they met each other, and realized their feeling growing up into more depper. A cliche romantic relationship that we can find anywhere.
What makes it different?
No, there's not. But, with a limited time, they're showing us what's an adult relationship meant to be. What I love is, they are communication well, realize they didn't have enough time together, and they choose to make everything clear. Even a basic question from "Tell me your day today from start to finish." can become a fun conversation to getting to know each other.
Justin got viral in Reddit because he had a good luck charm, and his exes got their true love after breaking up with him. Emma, who has the same situation, texts him. Then, a conversation leads them into a fake relationship for four weeks, one kiss, and one breakup to break the curse. And, they met each other, and realized their feeling growing up into more depper. A cliche romantic relationship that we can find anywhere.
What makes it different?
No, there's not. But, with a limited time, they're showing us what's an adult relationship meant to be. What I love is, they are communication well, realize they didn't have enough time together, and they choose to make everything clear. Even a basic question from "Tell me your day today from start to finish." can become a fun conversation to getting to know each other.
"What are you thinking?” I asked. He didn’t answer for a long moment. When he did, he did it with his eyes closed. “All I ever think about is you."
"I think something is wrong with me. Like there’s something in me, in my heart, that doesn’t work right."
"I’ve been waiting my whole life to feel like this and I thought it was a curse that nobody else ever worked out. But it wasn’t. It’s just that they weren’t you."
An issue comes from their family become a concern of their relationship, Justin has a mother who has to go to prison because of a fraud case, and he is forced to be a single parent with his three siblings, he is stuck unable to go anywhere. Meanwhile, Emma has a problematic mother. Emma's trauma made her choose not to stay in one place for too long. Amber's appearanc in Minnesota and her relationship with Emma's boss make the situation even more complicated, which ultimately makes Emma's trust even more crumbling.
Emma and Justin are not perfect humans, it all shows how they can still fall and get tired of circumstances. However, how both deal with everything is considered mature. Moreover, each of them tries to accept the difficult situation and tries to complement each other even in the context of a short relationship.
"You are the only thing in my life making me happy right now. And I’m not the least bit afraid to tell you that."
Justin is not scared to show his feelings. Even though he knows emma might not accept it, he still does that. We can't also blame Emma if she's denied. She's also love Justin, but her trust issue, a complex situation, forced her to choose other options at that time.
The dual POV helped me a lot to see two different perspectives. The things I like are both showing a development in every character.
In the chapter 40, there's a twist that leads into a conflict. And, it's also affected into their relationship. And, I also found a beautiful words;
But that’s not what real grown-up relationships are like. They’re like this. Being mature enough to know your limits, and adult enough to accept when someone tells you what they are.
Justin never forced her, and Emma never pushed herself to get hurt. Both know when to stop. They need a space to heal. Even if they want to stay, they know it won't work. In this moment, I am so touched!
I think It's a fast paced story, But I do not think the chemistry bad. The ending was good, I love it!
Adds-on;
Damn. I CAN NOT HANDLE MYSELF TO SEE JUSTIN. He's 100% effort from head to toe. SENDING A REVIEW ABOUT HIMSELF BEFORE DATING? A pre-question of dating, then feedback? Letter? Etc, HE NEEDS A HUGE APPLAUSE FROM THE CROWD. HE'S THE GENTLEMAN.
P.s: A reason I do not give a legit 5 is because Abby mentioned sb brand on the story. I checked her Instagram account, and the link for palestine is still available on her profile. I don't know the reason why she put that, and I am not sure it's make her zionist or not ( I am trying to find more information. For me, she's on gray area) But, personally, I choose not to recommend this book in public, and I will give this notes to people who want to read it.
P.s: A reason I do not give a legit 5 is because Abby mentioned sb brand on the story. I checked her Instagram account, and the link for palestine is still available on her profile. I don't know the reason why she put that, and I am not sure it's make her zionist or not ( I am trying to find more information. For me, she's on gray area) But, personally, I choose not to recommend this book in public, and I will give this notes to people who want to read it.
Vera Wong's Unsolicited Advice for Murderers by Jesse Q. Sutanto
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
funny
mysterious
reflective
relaxing
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.25
VERA WONG'S UNSOLICITED ADVICE FOR MURDERERS is typically a mystery-comedy genre. From my favorite author, Jesse Q Susanto, if I am not wrong, this is a fourth book of her I have been reading. Do I love it? Depends.
Meet Vera Wong, our main character, a grumpy granny who find a dead body in the teashop and starting to become a detective because the police did not great a good job, and she thinks he <Marshall> was being a murderer. When the type of asian grandomother solves the mystery, her style is become a straightforward person, and it makes the story funny. Vera's energy every chapter, even though we have a different point of view, Vera always shines. She has a strong image.
When Vera met other who related to the Marshall's dead, Vera invite and talk to them about that. It is annoying to other? Yes, a bit. But, who can't miss a delicious foods made by her? Everyone can't deny it.
The plot mainly focusing on the family-trope, even though I love hate relationships with vera character, but she is still lovely for the rest of them.
It is slow burn, and not talk too much about the kind of mystery things. Lower your standar, this one still gorgeous to read!
Meet Vera Wong, our main character, a grumpy granny who find a dead body in the teashop and starting to become a detective because the police did not great a good job, and she thinks he <Marshall> was being a murderer. When the type of asian grandomother solves the mystery, her style is become a straightforward person, and it makes the story funny. Vera's energy every chapter, even though we have a different point of view, Vera always shines. She has a strong image.
When Vera met other who related to the Marshall's dead, Vera invite and talk to them about that. It is annoying to other? Yes, a bit. But, who can't miss a delicious foods made by her? Everyone can't deny it.
The plot mainly focusing on the family-trope, even though I love hate relationships with vera character, but she is still lovely for the rest of them.
It is slow burn, and not talk too much about the kind of mystery things. Lower your standar, this one still gorgeous to read!
Omen by Lexie Xu
adventurous
challenging
dark
mysterious
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.25
OMEN bisa bikin nostlagia kalau dibaca sekarang, tipikal cerita remaja dengan konflik cukup berat— keyword; anak sma, bullying, iri hati-dengki (lol), dramatis, pembunuhan, misteri, dst. Pas baca ini, aku gak akan mikir sebagus apa itu plot, perkembangan karakter, dll- I just want to enjoy the whole story.
Erika & Eliza, anak kembar dengan kepribadian neraka & surga. Erika dengan julukan si omen mendapatkan tuduhan kalau dia adalah pelaku dari penusukan. Buku ini bisa dibilang menceritakan pembuktian sang omen, apakah benar melalukan hal itu?
Kalau dipikir-pikir, kok bisa Erika gak ada trust issue sama orang-orang sekitar? KOK BISA sehumble itu dengan si Ojek? Kok bisa gak ngelakuin apa-apa? Dan, lain-lain. Kita ngerasa selalu ada jawaban. Tapi, bagi sang tokoh hal itu bukan jadi akhir— Karena bagaimana pun dia dihadapkan situasi serba salah.
Buat porsi misteri di sini, cukup bagus! Walaupun sebel juga sama Erika karena gak hati-hati, dan cukup questioning myself, kenapa harus si Ojek jadi sang helper, ya? Tapi, sudahlah toh si Ojek emang disengaja memiliki peran besar dalam permasalahan ini (padahal pihak luar...) Pengen banget lihat karakter Erika sebagai sang omen lebih sigap, tapi kurang!
Ini emang... sinetron abiez.. Tapi, aku gak masalah & tetap suka mengingat ini tipikal cerita2 lama banget! Dan, sangat enjoy buat dibaca! <3 Karena baca ini sama teman, jadi aku juga gak sabar untuk diskusi (baca;misuh-misuh) soal buku ini!
OMEN tetap memberikan warna tersendiri, setiap porsi terbilang baik untuk diberikan! Dengan perjalanan masing panjang, banyak hal yang pastinya bisa terus untuk dieksplor! >3
Erika & Eliza, anak kembar dengan kepribadian neraka & surga. Erika dengan julukan si omen mendapatkan tuduhan kalau dia adalah pelaku dari penusukan. Buku ini bisa dibilang menceritakan pembuktian sang omen, apakah benar melalukan hal itu?
Kalau dipikir-pikir, kok bisa Erika gak ada trust issue sama orang-orang sekitar? KOK BISA sehumble itu dengan si Ojek? Kok bisa gak ngelakuin apa-apa? Dan, lain-lain. Kita ngerasa selalu ada jawaban. Tapi, bagi sang tokoh hal itu bukan jadi akhir— Karena bagaimana pun dia dihadapkan situasi serba salah.
Buat porsi misteri di sini, cukup bagus! Walaupun sebel juga sama Erika karena gak hati-hati, dan cukup questioning myself, kenapa harus si Ojek jadi sang helper, ya? Tapi, sudahlah toh si Ojek emang disengaja memiliki peran besar dalam permasalahan ini (padahal pihak luar...) Pengen banget lihat karakter Erika sebagai sang omen lebih sigap, tapi kurang!
Ini emang... sinetron abiez.. Tapi, aku gak masalah & tetap suka mengingat ini tipikal cerita2 lama banget! Dan, sangat enjoy buat dibaca! <3 Karena baca ini sama teman, jadi aku juga gak sabar untuk diskusi (baca;misuh-misuh) soal buku ini!
OMEN tetap memberikan warna tersendiri, setiap porsi terbilang baik untuk diberikan! Dengan perjalanan masing panjang, banyak hal yang pastinya bisa terus untuk dieksplor! >3
Ranah Pusaka by Nellaneva
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
sad
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.25
RANAH PUSAKA memiliki premis sangat menarik, kalau lihat dari blurb, "wah, asik nih! Ada kos-kossan, cari pusaka, berarti misteri tapi slice of life?"— Ekspetasi aku tinggi karena tiga buku dari nellaneva sebelum ini sudah aku baca seru! Tapi, untuk buku satu ini, bisa dibilang, cukup mengecewakan kurang.
Singkat cerita, semua karakter bertemu di inde kos, Arka sebagai sang pemilik buat penawaran para penghuni kos, Kali, Badran, dan Ilyas gak perlu bayar sewa asalkan mau bantu dia cari benda pusaka. Menarik, kan?
Tapi, gak sesuai dengan eksekusinya. Iya, aku bisa bilang begini karena menurut aku cerita ini lebih cocok dengan blurb, "empat sahabat bertemu di kos, satu sama lain menyimpan rahasia-masa lalu kelam, dan saling membantu satu sama lain."
Benang merah di sini, persoalan mencari benda pusaka seolah-olah menjadi jembatan gak terlihat, cerita didominasi dengan latar belakang masing-masing karakter, bagaiman menjalani- menerima hidup, dan solusi ditawarkan. Apa itu salah? Enggak. Itu tetap diperlukan, hanya saja, ya—aku merasa bingung dengan fokus utama cerita ini.
Sebelum baca, aku pikir misteri persoalan benda pusaka ini akan menonjol, masalah-masalah muncul terkait terhubung dengan masing-masing karakter, baru mengarah lebih jelas lagi dengan mereka. Bahkan, diantara kelima karakter ini, Kala & Ilyas memiliki porsi lebih banyak yang dimana Arka "yang terlihat" seperti pusat mendapatkan porsi seperti bayangan, dan baru dijelaskan menuju akhir. Salah satu karakter pun muncul yang menurut aku tanpa diperlukan; gak ada dia? Cerita tetap jalan. Penambahan karakter seperti sekedar menambah kisah aja tanpa rasa untuk menemani Badrun, sang karakter pendukung ini.
Mencapai akhir, baru terjawab persoalan pusaka tersebut dan alasan dibalik itu. Setelahnya? Oh, sudah itu saja karena cerita ini diakhiri dengan keputusan cukup bisa diterima tanpa memaksa karakter-karakter untuk terlihat baik. Realistis adalah kunci.
Walaupun begitu, perkembangan masing-masing karakter sangat baik. Khususnya Kala & Ilyas, hubungan masing-masing karakter juga terjalin dengan baik. Dan, aku suka dengan narasinya. Ya, sang author memang jago sih bikin cerita yang nyaman untuk dibaca!
Ranah pusaka memang gagal menjadi favorite, tapi masih cukup baik untuk dibaca dikala senggang dan sekedar dinikmati saja.
Singkat cerita, semua karakter bertemu di inde kos, Arka sebagai sang pemilik buat penawaran para penghuni kos, Kali, Badran, dan Ilyas gak perlu bayar sewa asalkan mau bantu dia cari benda pusaka. Menarik, kan?
Tapi, gak sesuai dengan eksekusinya. Iya, aku bisa bilang begini karena menurut aku cerita ini lebih cocok dengan blurb, "empat sahabat bertemu di kos, satu sama lain menyimpan rahasia-masa lalu kelam, dan saling membantu satu sama lain."
Benang merah di sini, persoalan mencari benda pusaka seolah-olah menjadi jembatan gak terlihat, cerita didominasi dengan latar belakang masing-masing karakter, bagaiman menjalani- menerima hidup, dan solusi ditawarkan. Apa itu salah? Enggak. Itu tetap diperlukan, hanya saja, ya—aku merasa bingung dengan fokus utama cerita ini.
Sebelum baca, aku pikir misteri persoalan benda pusaka ini akan menonjol, masalah-masalah muncul terkait terhubung dengan masing-masing karakter, baru mengarah lebih jelas lagi dengan mereka. Bahkan, diantara kelima karakter ini, Kala & Ilyas memiliki porsi lebih banyak yang dimana Arka "yang terlihat" seperti pusat mendapatkan porsi seperti bayangan, dan baru dijelaskan menuju akhir. Salah satu karakter pun muncul yang menurut aku tanpa diperlukan; gak ada dia? Cerita tetap jalan. Penambahan karakter seperti sekedar menambah kisah aja tanpa rasa untuk menemani Badrun, sang karakter pendukung ini.
Mencapai akhir, baru terjawab persoalan pusaka tersebut dan alasan dibalik itu. Setelahnya? Oh, sudah itu saja karena cerita ini diakhiri dengan keputusan cukup bisa diterima tanpa memaksa karakter-karakter untuk terlihat baik. Realistis adalah kunci.
Walaupun begitu, perkembangan masing-masing karakter sangat baik. Khususnya Kala & Ilyas, hubungan masing-masing karakter juga terjalin dengan baik. Dan, aku suka dengan narasinya. Ya, sang author memang jago sih bikin cerita yang nyaman untuk dibaca!
Ranah pusaka memang gagal menjadi favorite, tapi masih cukup baik untuk dibaca dikala senggang dan sekedar dinikmati saja.
Teka Teki Rumah Aneh by Uketsu
dark
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.25
FOMO, sangat pas sekali menggambarkan hubungan aku dengan TEKA-TEKI RUMAH ANEH. Karena memang itu alesan kenapa aku ingin membaca buku ini. Apa emang semenarik itu?
Misteri selalu jadi genre paling menarik untuk dibahas, karena twist menjadi kunci utama apa cerita akan menarik atau gak. Karena buku ini dibahas terus di platform X, aku pun memiliki ekspetasi tinggi.
Baca buku ini aku ibaratkan lagi dengerin teman curhat, kenapa? Mulai dari narasi ke dialog, pembaca seolah-olah sudah diposisikan sebagai pendengar. "Loh ada rumah aneh?", "emang kenapa aneh?", "ada apa dengan rumah aneh itu?", dan lain-lain. Jadi, kalau kamu tipe suka misteri dengan main character ikut terjun langsung dalam petualangan menarik memecahkan teka-teki menarik, kamu mungkin bisa aja gak cocok sama ini.
Karena ini 200-an halaman, alur cukup padat, jadi gak ada tipikal twist dalam twist atau pun hal-hal complex lain. Karena misteri dalam cerita ini akan terjawab dengan mengikuti alur saja. Walaupun begitu, gak sulit untuk memahami inti cerita ini. Bisa dibilang, alasan kenapa denah rumah tersebut seperti itu tetap bisa bikin pembaca heran, "loh, kok jadi gini?" Walaupun begitu, buat aku pribadi— aku gak bisa ngerasain hal sama dengan pembaca lain, ngerasa kaget sampe melongo. Gak, gak sampe begitunya, sih.
Hal menarik aku temukan diakhir cerita, celetukan dari salah satu karakter sukses bikin aku penasaran dengan misteri lain belum tergali atau itu sekedar asumsi? Satu lagi, perincian soal denah, keren-top-banget.
Ini buku J-lit pertama aku <suka>, karena sebelum ini cukup ngebosenin & buat aku gak mau baca J-lit lagi.
Menurut aku, Teka-Teki Rumah Aneh itu genre misteri dengan cerita to the point, & tetap nyaman untuk dinikmati.
Misteri selalu jadi genre paling menarik untuk dibahas, karena twist menjadi kunci utama apa cerita akan menarik atau gak. Karena buku ini dibahas terus di platform X, aku pun memiliki ekspetasi tinggi.
Baca buku ini aku ibaratkan lagi dengerin teman curhat, kenapa? Mulai dari narasi ke dialog, pembaca seolah-olah sudah diposisikan sebagai pendengar. "Loh ada rumah aneh?", "emang kenapa aneh?", "ada apa dengan rumah aneh itu?", dan lain-lain. Jadi, kalau kamu tipe suka misteri dengan main character ikut terjun langsung dalam petualangan menarik memecahkan teka-teki menarik, kamu mungkin bisa aja gak cocok sama ini.
Karena ini 200-an halaman, alur cukup padat, jadi gak ada tipikal twist dalam twist atau pun hal-hal complex lain. Karena misteri dalam cerita ini akan terjawab dengan mengikuti alur saja. Walaupun begitu, gak sulit untuk memahami inti cerita ini. Bisa dibilang, alasan kenapa denah rumah tersebut seperti itu tetap bisa bikin pembaca heran, "loh, kok jadi gini?" Walaupun begitu, buat aku pribadi— aku gak bisa ngerasain hal sama dengan pembaca lain, ngerasa kaget sampe melongo. Gak, gak sampe begitunya, sih.
Hal menarik aku temukan diakhir cerita, celetukan dari salah satu karakter sukses bikin aku penasaran dengan misteri lain belum tergali atau itu sekedar asumsi? Satu lagi, perincian soal denah, keren-top-banget.
Ini buku J-lit pertama aku <suka>, karena sebelum ini cukup ngebosenin & buat aku gak mau baca J-lit lagi.
Menurut aku, Teka-Teki Rumah Aneh itu genre misteri dengan cerita to the point, & tetap nyaman untuk dinikmati.
Kita Pergi Hari Ini by Ziggy Zezsyazeoviennazabrizkie
dark
emotional
mysterious
sad
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.5
KITA PERGI HARI INI sudah lama tersimpan di bookshelf, beberapa kali aku coba baca tapi disimpan kembali. Tiga hari lalu, mau coba baca karena ngerasa gak paham jokes teman-teman sudah baca buku ini. Yang berakhir.. Aku pengen banget GWS-in diri sendiri.
Dibandingkan JSP & Di Tanah Lada, KPHI bisa dibilang absurd. Jangan tertipu dengan cover, ataupun embel-embel kata anak, atau pun blurb terlihat seperti kisah petualangan biasa.
Diawal cerita, pembaca diperkenalkan dengan tokoh-tokoh dalam kisah ini. Mi, Ma, Mo, dan Tetangga Sebelah, Fifi & Fufu. Tiga bersaudara diperlihatkan sebagai sosok anak-anak lucu dan bikin ketawa. Sementara, Tetangga sebelah, sangat manis. Pertemuan dengan Nona Gigi, kucing dari Kota Terapung Luar Kucing Luar Biasa bukan untuk petualangan heroik & menyenangkan. Tapi, menakutkan dan membuat mereka ingin pulang.
Menurut aku— awal buku ini ngebosenin, aku berusaha banget untuk kelarin. Aku gak masalah dengan imajinasi Ziggy, ataupun kata-kata dia gunakan. Sudahlah, baca buku dia tanpa perlu mikir, let it flow aja (Buku ini penggunaan kata bikin pusing) Tapi, aku ngerasa KPHI bertele-tele.
Setelah sampai di Sirkus Sendu mulai terlihat titik dari keseluruhan cerita ini, flow dari ketawa-ketiwi-seru-lucu- mulai berubah menjadi gore, darkness, dan bikin melongo.
"KOK JADI GINI?"
Apapun itu terkait narasi mengenai Kota Terapung Kucing Luar Biasa bikin aku geleng-geleng. Ziggy, mau sentil isu tentang apa sih? Biasanya, aku masih bisa paham dan gak terlalu sulit menafsirkan cerita-cerita aneh, tapi pengecualian untuk KPHI, aku bener-bener pusing.
Aku bahkan menganggap ini soal orang tua capek sama anak-anak akhirnya menyingkirkan mereka, pas bukan dengan narasi ending KPHI? (Footnote di sini gila. Apalagi bagian terakhir. Cukup tahu saja).
KPHI sukses bikin ekspresi aku berubah-ubah setiap halaman, bagaimana pun buku ini memang gak bisa dibilang kurang bagus, karena untuk memahami sang penulis sendiri, kita harus masuk ke dunianya. Buat aku pribadi, JSP & Di Tanah Lada masih terbaik, namun KPHI bisa dibilang salah satu jembatan untuk bisa lebih mengenal sang penulis.
Dibandingkan JSP & Di Tanah Lada, KPHI bisa dibilang absurd. Jangan tertipu dengan cover, ataupun embel-embel kata anak, atau pun blurb terlihat seperti kisah petualangan biasa.
Diawal cerita, pembaca diperkenalkan dengan tokoh-tokoh dalam kisah ini. Mi, Ma, Mo, dan Tetangga Sebelah, Fifi & Fufu. Tiga bersaudara diperlihatkan sebagai sosok anak-anak lucu dan bikin ketawa. Sementara, Tetangga sebelah, sangat manis. Pertemuan dengan Nona Gigi, kucing dari Kota Terapung Luar Kucing Luar Biasa bukan untuk petualangan heroik & menyenangkan. Tapi, menakutkan dan membuat mereka ingin pulang.
Menurut aku— awal buku ini ngebosenin, aku berusaha banget untuk kelarin. Aku gak masalah dengan imajinasi Ziggy, ataupun kata-kata dia gunakan. Sudahlah, baca buku dia tanpa perlu mikir, let it flow aja (Buku ini penggunaan kata bikin pusing) Tapi, aku ngerasa KPHI bertele-tele.
Setelah sampai di Sirkus Sendu mulai terlihat titik dari keseluruhan cerita ini, flow dari ketawa-ketiwi-seru-lucu- mulai berubah menjadi gore, darkness, dan bikin melongo.
"KOK JADI GINI?"
Apapun itu terkait narasi mengenai Kota Terapung Kucing Luar Biasa bikin aku geleng-geleng. Ziggy, mau sentil isu tentang apa sih? Biasanya, aku masih bisa paham dan gak terlalu sulit menafsirkan cerita-cerita aneh, tapi pengecualian untuk KPHI, aku bener-bener pusing.
Aku bahkan menganggap ini soal orang tua capek sama anak-anak akhirnya menyingkirkan mereka, pas bukan dengan narasi ending KPHI? (Footnote di sini gila. Apalagi bagian terakhir. Cukup tahu saja).
KPHI sukses bikin ekspresi aku berubah-ubah setiap halaman, bagaimana pun buku ini memang gak bisa dibilang kurang bagus, karena untuk memahami sang penulis sendiri, kita harus masuk ke dunianya. Buat aku pribadi, JSP & Di Tanah Lada masih terbaik, namun KPHI bisa dibilang salah satu jembatan untuk bisa lebih mengenal sang penulis.