reading_rhapsody's reviews
157 reviews

Pride by Ibi Zoboi

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Did not finish book. Stopped at 16%.
not keeping my attention will read another time
Unwind by Neal Shusterman

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challenging informative inspiring reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.5

This was a gripping read that delves into complex themes like pro-life and pro-choice. The main characters storylines were engaging, but the secondary character Cy-Fi, who really stood out to me. The story's exploration of the Humphrey Dunfee aspect adds an intriguing layer. 

While the worldbuilding is solid, it leaves some questions unanswered, which can keep you thinking even after finishing the book. Overall, it's a thought-provoking and engaging read that raises important ethical questions.

Highly Recommend! looking forward to the rest of the dystology!

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I AM MAN by Valicity Elaine

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adventurous hopeful inspiring reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

Valicity seamlessly integrates Christian themes, like Jesus's redemption of mankind in this sci-fi book. She did a great job with that aspect!

X5 and Clora-Vean and the worldbuilding were awesome! 

I'm already itching to get my hands on the second book! If you're into series, sci-fi, post-apocalyptic settings I recommend reading this series.
Children of Blood and Bone by Tomi Adeyemi

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Did not finish book. Stopped at 2%.
not in the mood coming back abother time to read
Year of the Reaper by Makiia Lucier

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medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.75

so good! would have easily been a 5 star but I have minor complaints. 

First off, let's talk about Cas, our main character. He is one of the first MMC's that I loved everything about 😘

Despite him grappling with what I think is PTSD, Cas's resilience and willingness to help others made him a compelling character. 

Now, onto the friendship between Cas and Lena. Their slow-burn journey from strangers to really close friends felt authentic and had me invested in their bond. While the hint of romance added an interesting dynamic, I appreciated that their relationship wasn't solely defined by it.

Lucier's meticulous attention to historical detail, from clothing to food, really brought the setting to life and immersed me in the story. 

While I enjoyed the plot twists, I found the revelation of the assassin's identity a bit lacking in believability. However, it didn't detract too much from my overall enjoyment of the story.

My only wish? A map. More world-building and clarity on Cas's unique abilities would have added depth to the narrative.

All in all, 'Year of the Reaper' is a solid read for fans of historical fantasy seeking a well-crafted story with engaging characters.

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Echoes of Eden: Reflections on Christianity, Literature, and the Arts by Jerram Barrs

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Did not finish book. Stopped at 5%.
will read this another time just not in the mood anymore
The Firekeeper’s Daughter by Angeline Boulley

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Did not finish book. Stopped at 41%.
not keeping my attention but I will finish this another time when I am in the mood for it
A Sky Beyond the Storm by Sabaa Tahir

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Did not finish book. Stopped at 29%.
not in the mood will read another time
The Gift by Freida McFadden

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mysterious medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

I picked this up out of sheer curiosity, and I must admit, it was a fantastic short read!

This particular story left me wishing that Freida had expanded it into a full-length novel. I'd go as far as to say it's one of her works where I wasn't let down by the ending; it was both satisfying and pleasantly unpredictable.

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The Stranger in the Lifeboat by Mitch Albom

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emotional hopeful inspiring medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

I found "The Stranger in the Lifeboat" by Mitch Albom to be an engaging read, although it had flaws, particularly in its portrayal of God. 

The story explores themes of resilience and humanity, delving into questions about faith, morals, and the meaning of life and death. One aspect that resonated with me was the depiction of divine grace amidst suffering. I appreciated witnessing Benji's journey of faith amid hardship, which the author portrayed very well.

The characters' experiences stranded at sea were vividly described, making me grateful not to be in their situation. Albom's thorough research into survival at sea added credibility to the plot, although I wished for more depth in character backgrounds. 

The diverse cast of characters added depth to the story, but their brief backstories left me wanting more connection before some met their fates.

While Benji's character was well-developed, the time jumps in the story felt rushed, although the different perspectives added an interesting layer to the storytelling. I enjoyed Lefleur's storyline the most, particularly his role in piecing together the events and reading Benji's notebook.

However, Albom's portrayal of God as the stranger on the lifeboat felt ambiguous and confusing at times. I would have preferred a clearer depiction of God's character and intentions. While some questions about faith were addressed, others left me wondering about the underlying biblical principles. The purpose behind the characters' suffering and salvation wasn't always clear, leaving room for interpretation.

Overall, "The Stranger in the Lifeboat" is a compelling read, but it could have benefited from more depth and clarity, particularly in its exploration of faith and the divine.

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