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paz_books's reviews
1083 reviews
Into the Drowning Deep by Mira Grant
4.0
“Humanity was cruel, and if you were prepared to try to find a bottom to that cruelty, you had best be prepared for a long, long fall.”
Pre-warning: this review is going to include numerous (spoiler-free) quotes, because I am obsessed with the writing.
Diversity:
I am so appreciative of the representation in this book. Each character is unique in their own way, with their own struggles, and yet it is tackled in such a perfect way; e.g., the queer character's arc doesn't revolve around being queer, and the disabled character's arc doesn't revolve around being disabled. And those are only two examples of the diversity present. We had lgbtq+, POC, physical disabilities, hidden disabilities, neurodivergence, ethnicities, cultures, ages, etcetera.
"You shouldn't eat anything that knows how to play fetch. It's rude.”
Characters/Relationships:
Tory. Tory. Tory. Why am I lowkey in love with you?
Smart really is the new sexy I guess. This book is not a romance by any means, but the romance present was actually so sweet. The 'adversary' turns love-interest was too adorable. I also saw a lot of myself in the love-interest and think that helped me connect even more to these characters (and fall for Tory).
In more, I absolutely adored Jillian and Theo. I found myself really feeling for them and wanting to know more of their story. I could read an entirely separate instalment based on their lives.
“No offense, hon, but you flirt like it’s a form of espionage and you’ll be executed if you get caught.”
Underlying themes:
A key part of this read is the philosophy behind science/ how humanity often sees itself as all-powerful and at the top of the 'food-chain' per se. These concepts presented alongside the blatant reference to humanity's innate fear of, yet also obsession with, the ocean was such a thought provoker. Do we fear it because we know it is stronger than us? Worship it? Is it rooted in our genetics? Is it due to evolutionary reasons?
“The trouble with discovery is that it goes two ways. For you to find something, that thing must also find you.”
In all, the setting of this book was done incredibly well. I was nervous, intrigued, and captivated all at the same time. I was fascinated by all of the characters, even the ones I probably wasn't meant to like... Honestly, this was just a very well written horror which included a variety of smaller themes that had me hooked.
“It was beautiful, in its own terrible way. So many monsters are.”
Pre-warning: this review is going to include numerous (spoiler-free) quotes, because I am obsessed with the writing.
Diversity:
I am so appreciative of the representation in this book. Each character is unique in their own way, with their own struggles, and yet it is tackled in such a perfect way; e.g., the queer character's arc doesn't revolve around being queer, and the disabled character's arc doesn't revolve around being disabled. And those are only two examples of the diversity present. We had lgbtq+, POC, physical disabilities, hidden disabilities, neurodivergence, ethnicities, cultures, ages, etcetera.
"You shouldn't eat anything that knows how to play fetch. It's rude.”
Characters/Relationships:
Tory. Tory. Tory. Why am I lowkey in love with you?
Smart really is the new sexy I guess. This book is not a romance by any means, but the romance present was actually so sweet. The 'adversary' turns love-interest was too adorable. I also saw a lot of myself in the love-interest and think that helped me connect even more to these characters (and fall for Tory).
In more, I absolutely adored Jillian and Theo. I found myself really feeling for them and wanting to know more of their story. I could read an entirely separate instalment based on their lives.
“No offense, hon, but you flirt like it’s a form of espionage and you’ll be executed if you get caught.”
Underlying themes:
A key part of this read is the philosophy behind science/ how humanity often sees itself as all-powerful and at the top of the 'food-chain' per se. These concepts presented alongside the blatant reference to humanity's innate fear of, yet also obsession with, the ocean was such a thought provoker. Do we fear it because we know it is stronger than us? Worship it? Is it rooted in our genetics? Is it due to evolutionary reasons?
“The trouble with discovery is that it goes two ways. For you to find something, that thing must also find you.”
In all, the setting of this book was done incredibly well. I was nervous, intrigued, and captivated all at the same time. I was fascinated by all of the characters, even the ones I probably wasn't meant to like... Honestly, this was just a very well written horror which included a variety of smaller themes that had me hooked.
“It was beautiful, in its own terrible way. So many monsters are.”
Teacher of the Year by M.A. Wardell
4.0
One of my favourite book tropes mixed with a little spice and trauma.
Seriously, did not think this one would attack my feelings as much as it did...
Seriously, did not think this one would attack my feelings as much as it did...
The Alpha's Warlock by Eliot Grayson
3.0
"I hated everyone in the f-king world except for you."
This book is exactly what you expect it to be (or at least what I expected it to be): a quick and easy mlm supernatural/fantasy romance with a barely-there plot (outside of the romance) and mediocre writing.
The technicalities of this book are admittedly not the best, but its a 200 page easy-read romance, and overall entertaining book that I don't think needs to be taken too seriously.
This book is exactly what you expect it to be (or at least what I expected it to be): a quick and easy mlm supernatural/fantasy romance with a barely-there plot (outside of the romance) and mediocre writing.
The technicalities of this book are admittedly not the best, but its a 200 page easy-read romance, and overall entertaining book that I don't think needs to be taken too seriously.
Boy Parts by Eliza Clark
4.0
“You want to think you're not like other women, but you are, you know. You're still... that's still how the rest of the world, how men are going to see you. Like, I know you hate labels, but you like... You live in a woman's body. You're vulnerable. No matter what you think, you're vulnerable...”
I'm kinda stumped on how to review this one as I can't tell if I enjoyed it or just gave in to shock value? It did however cover some really important topics, most surrounding the patriarchy, in really unique ways and that is definitely something I appreciated.
"Was it my idea to have him hurt me, or did he just let me think it was?”
The main character is the personification of 'letting the intrusive thoughts win' and yet makes so many powerful statements through her actions. You are taught to hate Irina, yet trust in her, even root for her- just like all the other characters in her life do.
“Do I have to smash a glass over the head of every single man I come into contact with, just so I leave a fucking mark?”
One thing I was really impressed by was the portrayal of Irina's slow descent into madness throughout the final pages. I flew through the ending section and even needed to reread it a couple of times for it to fully sink in.
“I explain to him that nothing matters, and nothing lasts. Everyone forgets, and everything disappears. The things you do, the things you are; it’s all nothing. Would anyone miss you, if you went away? Would anyone look for you? Would anyone listen, or even care, if I hurt you? If I put my hands around your neck and crushed your windpipe and chopped you up, would anyone find you? And if it’s a no to any of these, did you even exist in the first place?”
Overall, it is hard to put my thoughts on this one into words, but I 100% believe it is worth a read- just do check out the trigger warnings of course.
I'm kinda stumped on how to review this one as I can't tell if I enjoyed it or just gave in to shock value? It did however cover some really important topics, most surrounding the patriarchy, in really unique ways and that is definitely something I appreciated.
"Was it my idea to have him hurt me, or did he just let me think it was?”
The main character is the personification of 'letting the intrusive thoughts win' and yet makes so many powerful statements through her actions. You are taught to hate Irina, yet trust in her, even root for her- just like all the other characters in her life do.
“Do I have to smash a glass over the head of every single man I come into contact with, just so I leave a fucking mark?”
One thing I was really impressed by was the portrayal of Irina's slow descent into madness throughout the final pages. I flew through the ending section and even needed to reread it a couple of times for it to fully sink in.
“I explain to him that nothing matters, and nothing lasts. Everyone forgets, and everything disappears. The things you do, the things you are; it’s all nothing. Would anyone miss you, if you went away? Would anyone look for you? Would anyone listen, or even care, if I hurt you? If I put my hands around your neck and crushed your windpipe and chopped you up, would anyone find you? And if it’s a no to any of these, did you even exist in the first place?”
Overall, it is hard to put my thoughts on this one into words, but I 100% believe it is worth a read- just do check out the trigger warnings of course.
The Fate of Stars by S.D. Simper
3.0
Read this one on a flight + train and enjoyed it much more than I thought I would. I was always excited for this read because few things can beat a sapphic fantasy, but I had an odd feeling that the length and writing style would let me down. I do still think it could've been longer and more emotive writing could have been used, but it was still really enjoyable and well worth the read. I liked the main characters more than expected, and although it is a short read, the enemies to lovers aspect was done so much better than numerous popular books with the same trope. I actually believed the mutual dislike (then like haha) and appreciated the acknowledgment of "is this Stockholm Syndrome or actual attraction" which not many books adhere to.
Ghosts of the Shadow Market by Cassandra Clare
4.0
Ghosts of the Shadow Market: a not-so-spoiler-free review
Cast Long Shadows: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
-Seeing young teen Matthew was something I did not know I needed
-Made me love him more
-All the Jem insight and involvement squeeee
-But seriously, watching the change of young Matthew close himself off after seeing him so young and free; flirting with fae (of any gender), obnoxiously calling Jem out on a rumoured affair with Tessa haha, and being adorable with the Merry Thieves
-This one hurt
Every Equisite Thing: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
-Seeing Anna be shy? Not something I expected to ever see
-Anna's reaction to first seeing Ariadne was quite possibly the gayest thing I have ever read and I loved every moment.
Learn About Loss: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
-Absolutely loved Emilia.
-SCREAMING CRYING THROWING UP AT THAT ENDING WHAT DID I DO TO DESERVE THAT
-Jem and Will haunt my every waking moment
-I don’t have a lot to say because I spent 90% of this chapter in my feels but this was amazing
A Deeper Love: ⭐⭐⭐
-Well this was sad
-Was nice to see Catarina again!!!
-But Cassie needs to stop torturing me with Heronraystairs
The Wicked Ones: ⭐⭐
-Ew, I haven't thought about Valentine in so long, I did not miss him
-But also learning more about The Circle was really interesting
-Céline… I know she’s a lil traumatised but gah was she annoying
Son of the Dawn: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
-Baby Jace, Izzy, Alec, and Max? Adorable
-Alec “I’m defo not eyeing up Raphael, I just want to tell him how cool his jacket is” Lightwood??? That is lowkey your future husband’s son???
-Also Raphael bluntly saying “I’m 65” and stepping away when Alec said they looked the same age had me reeling
-Anyway, I will eat anything up if it has Alec or Raphael in it, just was not expecting that interaction
-Ft Jem comparing himself and Will to a literal couple part 1
The Land I Lost: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
-Malec and their babies are my everything
-There could be no plot at all and I would have loved this because I adore all of these characters (I even have such a soft spot for Lily)
-I will be using Lily’s nicknames for Jem unironically in the future
-Watching Alec and Rafe bond almost killed me. Alec being possibly the first person to ever accept Rafe’s boundaries and comfort him even though they speak different languages? Rafe being so mean to Alec and yet running right into his arms at any spook?
-I love them
Through Blood, Through Fire: ⭐⭐
-I wasn’t massively into this one until the end, but then like any Herongraystairs story it ended by coming right for my emotions
The Lost World: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
-Was not expecting a Ty/Livvy story, was not mad about it
-I absolutely adore Ty as a character which really made this chapter for me
-Livvy’s lack of morals surrounding Jessa’s unborn baby? What even was that
-Magnus cannot catch a break... but is an excellent secret keeper I guess
Forever Fallen: ⭐⭐⭐
-I completely forgot Janus was ever a character
-Still a really interesting read
-I love Lily :’)
-Kit, Mina, Jem, and Tessa being a family was so sweet to see
-Kit trying to push away his very Ty-centred feelings was not
-Ft Jem comparing himself and Will to a literal couple part 2
Cast Long Shadows: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
-Seeing young teen Matthew was something I did not know I needed
-Made me love him more
-All the Jem insight and involvement squeeee
-But seriously, watching the change of young Matthew close himself off after seeing him so young and free; flirting with fae (of any gender), obnoxiously calling Jem out on a rumoured affair with Tessa haha, and being adorable with the Merry Thieves
-This one hurt
Every Equisite Thing: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
-Seeing Anna be shy? Not something I expected to ever see
-Anna's reaction to first seeing Ariadne was quite possibly the gayest thing I have ever read and I loved every moment.
Learn About Loss: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
-Absolutely loved Emilia.
-SCREAMING CRYING THROWING UP AT THAT ENDING WHAT DID I DO TO DESERVE THAT
-Jem and Will haunt my every waking moment
-I don’t have a lot to say because I spent 90% of this chapter in my feels but this was amazing
A Deeper Love: ⭐⭐⭐
-Well this was sad
-Was nice to see Catarina again!!!
-But Cassie needs to stop torturing me with Heronraystairs
The Wicked Ones: ⭐⭐
-Ew, I haven't thought about Valentine in so long, I did not miss him
-But also learning more about The Circle was really interesting
-Céline… I know she’s a lil traumatised but gah was she annoying
Son of the Dawn: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
-Baby Jace, Izzy, Alec, and Max? Adorable
-Alec “I’m defo not eyeing up Raphael, I just want to tell him how cool his jacket is” Lightwood??? That is lowkey your future husband’s son???
-Also Raphael bluntly saying “I’m 65” and stepping away when Alec said they looked the same age had me reeling
-Anyway, I will eat anything up if it has Alec or Raphael in it, just was not expecting that interaction
-Ft Jem comparing himself and Will to a literal couple part 1
The Land I Lost: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
-Malec and their babies are my everything
-There could be no plot at all and I would have loved this because I adore all of these characters (I even have such a soft spot for Lily)
-I will be using Lily’s nicknames for Jem unironically in the future
-Watching Alec and Rafe bond almost killed me. Alec being possibly the first person to ever accept Rafe’s boundaries and comfort him even though they speak different languages? Rafe being so mean to Alec and yet running right into his arms at any spook?
-I love them
Through Blood, Through Fire: ⭐⭐
-I wasn’t massively into this one until the end, but then like any Herongraystairs story it ended by coming right for my emotions
The Lost World: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
-Was not expecting a Ty/Livvy story, was not mad about it
-I absolutely adore Ty as a character which really made this chapter for me
-Livvy’s lack of morals surrounding Jessa’s unborn baby? What even was that
-Magnus cannot catch a break... but is an excellent secret keeper I guess
Forever Fallen: ⭐⭐⭐
-I completely forgot Janus was ever a character
-Still a really interesting read
-I love Lily :’)
-Kit, Mina, Jem, and Tessa being a family was so sweet to see
-Kit trying to push away his very Ty-centred feelings was not
-Ft Jem comparing himself and Will to a literal couple part 2
A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara
5.0
I'm still not recovered, and I don't think I ever will be, but when I feel slightly more stable I will actually review this book
Kate by Tate James
3.0
Mini thought dump = I was not aware of just how attached to these characters I was until after having finished the whole series and realising thats the end haha. I am also both appalled and impressed by the wrap up of the mystery, as after four books of not knowing I was really nervous there would be an unsatisfying conclusion, but luckily it did not go that way. Also, no complaints towards THAT scene we were all waiting for- I was so happy to finally see it happen.
My only real criticism is that I do think a couple of the books, this one included, did not need to be as long as they were. The series consists of longer-than-average books and yet I think they could've easily have been cut down.
My only real criticism is that I do think a couple of the books, this one included, did not need to be as long as they were. The series consists of longer-than-average books and yet I think they could've easily have been cut down.
The Inheritance Games by Jennifer Lynn Barnes
4.0
First things first, I adore the writing style of this one, even if it isn't very descriptive or environment focused. The writing centres massively around speech and conversations, which works for a quick-paced, character-orientated, mystery, YA.
As said, this book focuses a lot on the characters and the mystery but it is hard to talk about the latter without spoiling things so this will mostly be a review on my opinions of different characters.
I couldn't really connect as much as I'd liked with the two main brothers; Jameson and Grayson. I wasn't feeling the chemistry between Jameson and Avery (however this may have been purposeful
As said, this book focuses a lot on the characters and the mystery but it is hard to talk about the latter without spoiling things so this will mostly be a review on my opinions of different characters.
I couldn't really connect as much as I'd liked with the two main brothers; Jameson and Grayson. I wasn't feeling the chemistry between Jameson and Avery (however this may have been purposeful