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raynreads's reviews
629 reviews
Artificial Condition by Martha Wells
4.5
"Artificial Condition," the second book in the Murderbot Series by Martha Wells, surpasses all expectations and solidifies its position as the standout installment in this captivating science fiction series. It is a rare gem where the sequel not only lives up to the brilliance of its predecessor but exceeds it in every way. Wells masterfully expands the universe, deepens the character development, and takes readers on a thrilling and emotionally resonant journey.
The Frugal Wizard's Handbook for Surviving Medieval England by Brandon Sanderson
Brandon Sanderson's "The Frugal Wizard's Handbook for Surviving Medieval England" takes readers on a thrilling journey through time, blending elements of mystery, fantasy, and historical fiction. With a compelling premise and a captivating exploration of identity, this novel offers an intriguing reading experience.
The story opens with a man awakening in a clearing, finding himself stranded in what appears to be medieval England. Plagued by amnesia, he must navigate the treacherous landscape while being pursued by a group from his own time. With his survival hanging by a thread, his only hope lies in piecing together his lost memories, forging alliances with the locals, and delving into the world of superstition and folklore.
One of the highlights of this book is the intricate puzzle of the protagonist's identity. As readers follow the main character's journey to rediscover his past, they are drawn into the enigma alongside him. Sanderson skillfully weaves clues and fragments of memories, enticing readers to piece them together and uncover the truth. This aspect of the narrative creates an engaging reading experience, fueling the desire to unravel the mystery.
"The Frugal Wizard's Handbook for Surviving Medieval England" also excels in its portrayal of different belief systems and the lore surrounding the gods. Sanderson's attention to detail and world-building prowess shine through, as he incorporates various mythologies and superstitions into the story. The exploration of different belief systems adds depth to the narrative and contributes to the rich tapestry of the medieval setting.
While the book keeps readers engaged with its intriguing premise and well-crafted world, the pacing occasionally falters. Some sections may feel slower compared to others, impacting the overall flow of the story. However, the strengths of the narrative and the compelling nature of the protagonist's journey overshadow this minor setback.
In conclusion, "The Frugal Wizard's Handbook for Surviving Medieval England" is an enjoyable read for fans of mystery, fantasy, and historical fiction. Brandon Sanderson's ability to create intricate puzzles and immersive worlds is on full display in this novel. With its exploration of identity, captivating mystery, and well-developed lore, it offers a unique reading experience.
I personally rated this book four stars, as I thoroughly enjoyed the challenge of unraveling the main character's past while they themselves were struggling to remember. The representation of different belief systems and the intricate lore surrounding the gods added an extra layer of depth to the story, further enhancing my reading experience.
Disclaimer: I would like to express my appreciation to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an advance copy of "The Frugal Wizard's Handbook for Surviving Medieval England."
The story opens with a man awakening in a clearing, finding himself stranded in what appears to be medieval England. Plagued by amnesia, he must navigate the treacherous landscape while being pursued by a group from his own time. With his survival hanging by a thread, his only hope lies in piecing together his lost memories, forging alliances with the locals, and delving into the world of superstition and folklore.
One of the highlights of this book is the intricate puzzle of the protagonist's identity. As readers follow the main character's journey to rediscover his past, they are drawn into the enigma alongside him. Sanderson skillfully weaves clues and fragments of memories, enticing readers to piece them together and uncover the truth. This aspect of the narrative creates an engaging reading experience, fueling the desire to unravel the mystery.
"The Frugal Wizard's Handbook for Surviving Medieval England" also excels in its portrayal of different belief systems and the lore surrounding the gods. Sanderson's attention to detail and world-building prowess shine through, as he incorporates various mythologies and superstitions into the story. The exploration of different belief systems adds depth to the narrative and contributes to the rich tapestry of the medieval setting.
While the book keeps readers engaged with its intriguing premise and well-crafted world, the pacing occasionally falters. Some sections may feel slower compared to others, impacting the overall flow of the story. However, the strengths of the narrative and the compelling nature of the protagonist's journey overshadow this minor setback.
In conclusion, "The Frugal Wizard's Handbook for Surviving Medieval England" is an enjoyable read for fans of mystery, fantasy, and historical fiction. Brandon Sanderson's ability to create intricate puzzles and immersive worlds is on full display in this novel. With its exploration of identity, captivating mystery, and well-developed lore, it offers a unique reading experience.
I personally rated this book four stars, as I thoroughly enjoyed the challenge of unraveling the main character's past while they themselves were struggling to remember. The representation of different belief systems and the intricate lore surrounding the gods added an extra layer of depth to the story, further enhancing my reading experience.
Disclaimer: I would like to express my appreciation to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an advance copy of "The Frugal Wizard's Handbook for Surviving Medieval England."
Give Me a Sign by Anna Sortino
5.0
One of my new favorite books! An absolute delight, and I could not read it fast enough!
"Give Me a Sign" by Anna Sortino is a delightful YA debut that took me on a heartwarming journey back to the beloved nostalgia of summer camp. Lilah's experience of feeling caught in the middle—neither fully identifying as Deaf nor meeting society's expectations of being hearing—resonated deeply with the reader. Sortino skillfully intertwines the challenges faced by the Deaf community into Lilah's personal quest for self-discovery, letting go, and finding her voice.
The characters in "Give Me a Sign" shine with vibrant personalities that make them feel like lifelong friends. Each one brings a unique charm to the story, and I found myself easily connecting with their journeys. Sortino has crafted such distinct voices that I could likely identify the speaker of a random quote out of context—a testament to the author's ability to breathe life into her characters.
Nostalgia hits hard when reminiscing about summer camp experiences. While my camp didn't boast hot British lifeguards like Lilah's, we had our own laughs and shared conversations. The lifeguard scenes in the book brought a smile to my face, reminding me of the genuine and hilarious moments that occur in those cherished summer camp memories.
"Give Me a Sign" beautifully captures the spirit of summer camp, fostering a sense of community, growth, and the excitement of unexpected connections. It is a celebration of finding oneself amidst a backdrop of friendship, romance, and the power of embracing one's unique identity. Anna Sortino's debut novel is a delightful and engaging read that will leave you with a warm, nostalgic glow long after you've turned the last page.
Thank you Penguin Teen and PRH Audio for providing me a digital, and ALC copy of this book.
"Give Me a Sign" by Anna Sortino is a delightful YA debut that took me on a heartwarming journey back to the beloved nostalgia of summer camp. Lilah's experience of feeling caught in the middle—neither fully identifying as Deaf nor meeting society's expectations of being hearing—resonated deeply with the reader. Sortino skillfully intertwines the challenges faced by the Deaf community into Lilah's personal quest for self-discovery, letting go, and finding her voice.
The characters in "Give Me a Sign" shine with vibrant personalities that make them feel like lifelong friends. Each one brings a unique charm to the story, and I found myself easily connecting with their journeys. Sortino has crafted such distinct voices that I could likely identify the speaker of a random quote out of context—a testament to the author's ability to breathe life into her characters.
Nostalgia hits hard when reminiscing about summer camp experiences. While my camp didn't boast hot British lifeguards like Lilah's, we had our own laughs and shared conversations. The lifeguard scenes in the book brought a smile to my face, reminding me of the genuine and hilarious moments that occur in those cherished summer camp memories.
"Give Me a Sign" beautifully captures the spirit of summer camp, fostering a sense of community, growth, and the excitement of unexpected connections. It is a celebration of finding oneself amidst a backdrop of friendship, romance, and the power of embracing one's unique identity. Anna Sortino's debut novel is a delightful and engaging read that will leave you with a warm, nostalgic glow long after you've turned the last page.
Thank you Penguin Teen and PRH Audio for providing me a digital, and ALC copy of this book.
Night's Edge by Liz Kerin
5.0
I loved that the author essentially wrote a vampire novel without ever using the word vampire. What sets this book apart is the author's ingenious approach of crafting a vampire tale without ever uttering the word "vampire." In most vampire novels, the vampires take center stage, but Kerin masterfully shifts our focus to Mia, unfolding her story through two captivating timelines—one when she's a mere 10-year-old and the other in her present-day life. What makes this book really stand out is the multilayered look at dependency and the layered aspects to family life. Overall, there wasn't anything major that I would have changed and found the book to tie up the loose ends in a manor that made sense to the entire story.
This audiobook was outstanding, the narration added to the character and aided in how you felt about every situation the main character was in.
This audiobook was outstanding, the narration added to the character and aided in how you felt about every situation the main character was in.
Finding Me: A Memoir by Viola Davis
5.0
Viola Davis's memoir, "Finding Me," delves into the deeply personal and harrowing experiences that could have easily ensnared her in a cycle of violence, poverty, and drug addiction, much like those around her. Through her candid and brave storytelling, Davis sheds light on the circumstances and challenges she faced growing up. Her resilience, determination, and unwavering spirit allowed her to transcend the hardships she witnessed and rise above the limitations that threatened to confine her. Davis worked deligently to get where she is today and was never allowed any moments to simply exist as she grew up and became who we all know her as today. Viola Davis's journey is a testament to the power of inner strength and the ability to break free from the constraints of one's environment, inspiring readers to overcome adversity and create their own path towards success and fulfillment.
Bookshops & Bonedust by Travis Baldree
medium-paced
5.0
Bookshops & Bonedust is a mesmerizing love letter to the enchantment of bookshops, the profound impact of stories, and the serendipitous friendships that shape our lives. Travis Baldree has woven a tapestry of characters so vivid and captivating that you can't help but fall in love with each and every one of them. What amazed me most was the care and attention given to even the side characters, their backstories crafted with depth and thoughtfulness. It's a testament to Baldree's skill in creating a world that feels lived-in and brimming with authentic personalities.
In the beginning, I admit to feeling a tinge of apprehension as Viv, the protagonist, seemed different from the Viv I knew in Legends and Lattes. But then it struck me: this is a different Viv, an old chapter of her life. The contrast in her demeanor, the quicker reactions, and the subtle emotional shifts added a layer of intrigue. As the story unfolded, I found myself completely immersed in Viv's journey of self-discovery, witnessing her transformation and eagerly anticipating the path that leads her back to the person we all adored in Legends and Lattes.
What truly touched my heart in Bookshops & Bonedust was the poignant awareness of Viv's impending departure from Murk. It was a delicate dance between joy and sadness, leaving us with a bittersweet ache. Yet, Baldree masterfully guides Viv to embrace the present moment, forging new connections, and finding solace and love within the ephemeral beauty of her current circumstances. It's a testament to the author's skill that we can feel the depths of Viv's emotions and embark on this heartfelt journey alongside her.
Bookshops & Bonedust is an immersive and beautifully crafted tale that reminds us of the profound magic found within the pages of books and the power of human connections. Travis Baldree's ability to make even the fleeting characters feel unforgettable is a testament to his storytelling prowess. This book will linger in your thoughts long after the final page is turned, leaving you with a renewed appreciation for the stories that shape our lives.
In the beginning, I admit to feeling a tinge of apprehension as Viv, the protagonist, seemed different from the Viv I knew in Legends and Lattes. But then it struck me: this is a different Viv, an old chapter of her life. The contrast in her demeanor, the quicker reactions, and the subtle emotional shifts added a layer of intrigue. As the story unfolded, I found myself completely immersed in Viv's journey of self-discovery, witnessing her transformation and eagerly anticipating the path that leads her back to the person we all adored in Legends and Lattes.
What truly touched my heart in Bookshops & Bonedust was the poignant awareness of Viv's impending departure from Murk. It was a delicate dance between joy and sadness, leaving us with a bittersweet ache. Yet, Baldree masterfully guides Viv to embrace the present moment, forging new connections, and finding solace and love within the ephemeral beauty of her current circumstances. It's a testament to the author's skill that we can feel the depths of Viv's emotions and embark on this heartfelt journey alongside her.
Bookshops & Bonedust is an immersive and beautifully crafted tale that reminds us of the profound magic found within the pages of books and the power of human connections. Travis Baldree's ability to make even the fleeting characters feel unforgettable is a testament to his storytelling prowess. This book will linger in your thoughts long after the final page is turned, leaving you with a renewed appreciation for the stories that shape our lives.
The Children of Gods and Fighting Men by Shauna Lawless
slow-paced
2.75
"Children of Gods and Fighting Men" proved challenging for me, as I struggled to develop a genuine investment in the characters. The dual storylines, which I had hoped would contribute to a compelling plot, unfortunately, fell short and left me feeling disconnected from the narrative. The lack of a sense of urgency throughout the book made it difficult to stay engaged, and there were moments when I contemplated abandoning it altogether.
From the title alone, one would expect an intriguing exploration of gods and their wrath or captivating lore surrounding their existence. However, I was disappointed to find that the book failed to deliver on these promises. The absence of action throughout the story resulted in a dull and monotonous plotline, leaving me longing for more excitement and depth.
I ultimately felt let down by its lack of compelling characters, a cohesive plot, and the absence of any real substance to drive the story forward. "Children of Gods and Fighting Men" failed to captivate my imagination, leaving me underwhelmed by its overall execution.
From the title alone, one would expect an intriguing exploration of gods and their wrath or captivating lore surrounding their existence. However, I was disappointed to find that the book failed to deliver on these promises. The absence of action throughout the story resulted in a dull and monotonous plotline, leaving me longing for more excitement and depth.
I ultimately felt let down by its lack of compelling characters, a cohesive plot, and the absence of any real substance to drive the story forward. "Children of Gods and Fighting Men" failed to captivate my imagination, leaving me underwhelmed by its overall execution.