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readingwithtemperance's reviews
179 reviews
Amari and the Great Game by B.B. Alston
adventurous
emotional
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Excuse you B.B. Alston but August is REALLY far away and I need this book right now please and thank you.
Okay but seriously WHAT A SEQUEL! I love Amari and this works so so much. I'm so happy that there will be more to come.
The ending perfectly set up for book three. And by the way LETS TALK ABOUT THAT ENDING.When Dillon had his evil memories taken away and he looked at Amari with so much love and clarity only for it to be RIPPED AWAY. I might never recover.
And mind you I was CRYING MY ASS OFF ATQUINTON. Oh my goodness am I happy that Anari has her big brother back. I'm so excited to see more from him in book three.
Okay but seriously WHAT A SEQUEL! I love Amari and this works so so much. I'm so happy that there will be more to come.
The ending perfectly set up for book three. And by the way LETS TALK ABOUT THAT ENDING.
And mind you I was CRYING MY ASS OFF AT
Content Warnings
Graphic: Bullying, Racism, Violence
Moderate: Confinement, Fire/Fire injury, Deportation
Minor: War
The Companion by E.E. Ottoman
emotional
hopeful
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
4.0
This was delightful! My little polyamorous heart was SO happy reading this book.
I absolutely adored how much all of the characters cared for one another. And how different each relationship dynamic was.
It really made me want to just live out on a farm with my partner and friends even more. So relaxing.
I absolutely adored how much all of the characters cared for one another. And how different each relationship dynamic was.
It really made me want to just live out on a farm with my partner and friends even more. So relaxing.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Drug use, Sexual content
Moderate: Transphobia
Minor: Homophobia, Sexual harassment
How Moon Fuentez Fell in Love With the Universe by Raquel Vasquez Gilliland
emotional
hopeful
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
I want to give Moon the world's biggest hug. She absolutely did not deserve the way her Mother, sister, peers, etc treated her. This book had me FUMING.
I found myself crying out of anger so many times. Everyone was just so cruel to Moon. The abuse and bullying was overwhelming at times.
It always pisses me off when purity culture is forced onto girls. Telling them they are dirty and impure and should be ashamed of themselves/their bodies. The way it absolutely uprooted Moon's self esteem was heart breaking.
Her mother is probably one of the worst characters I have ever read about.I'd like to take a knife to HER and see how SHE likes it. Also I'd of cheated on her too. She makes everyone around her miserable so i can't fathom being her partner. Moon and Star both deserved better. The wrong parent died imo.
Moon's journey to self acceptance was beautiful to watch. It was so nice seeing her self esteem raise and having some time to actually heal.Her Tia is an absolute blessing. I'm so happy she and Star are with her now.
I really hope that Star does better in the future. Personally I'd love to see a sequel where she's the MC redeeming and accepting herself.
This book had me so hungry! I don't know why I've never thought to put honey on pizza, but I'll be doing that ASAP.
I found myself crying out of anger so many times. Everyone was just so cruel to Moon. The abuse and bullying was overwhelming at times.
It always pisses me off when purity culture is forced onto girls. Telling them they are dirty and impure and should be ashamed of themselves/their bodies. The way it absolutely uprooted Moon's self esteem was heart breaking.
Her mother is probably one of the worst characters I have ever read about.
Moon's journey to self acceptance was beautiful to watch. It was so nice seeing her self esteem raise and having some time to actually heal.
I really hope that Star does better in the future. Personally I'd love to see a sequel where she's the MC redeeming and accepting herself.
This book had me so hungry! I don't know why I've never thought to put honey on pizza, but I'll be doing that ASAP.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Bullying, Child abuse, Emotional abuse, Fatphobia, Physical abuse
Moderate: Suicide, Death of parent
Minor: Infidelity, Racism
Amari and the Night Brothers by B.B. Alston
adventurous
inspiring
mysterious
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
This book gave me the same feelings I had reading my childhood favorites growing up. I was so swept up and captivated by Amari and the world she was thrust into. The magic, the adventure, the FRIENDSHIP. Ugh it fueled my heart so good.
The world itself was so incredible. I loved getting insight on all of the different departments. And I'm so excited to see more in book two! Personally I would want to work in the department of good fortune and bad omens.
The love Amari feels for her big brother had me over come with emotion so many times. Especially whenshe was speaking to him in his coma. "Hey Chicken Little" TEARS EVERY WHERE. And every time she doubted herself he was lifting her right back up internally. The bond they share is so beautiful. Quinton truly is a beacon.
Amari is so so brave and constantly proving others wrong. People doubt her because of where she comes from, for being black, and for being a magician. Whether it's the mundane or supernatural world people are always forming opinions about her before she even opens her mouth or acts. Her existence is a "threat" no matter where she is.
She's always being told she doesn't belong or doesn't deserve her spot. First in private school and then again at summer camp. Amari is bullied so fiercely by her peers. And the adults the grand majority of the time are just complicent in that and it was utterly disgusting to watch.
Ffs she wasdemoted simply because Van Helsing had a personal vendetta against her. It ended up working in her favor but that was SUCH a low blow and entirely unfair. SHE EARNED THAT FUCKING BADGE. That's okay though because the call was coming from inside the house wasn't it?
At the end of the day she's Amari Amazing and there's nothing they can do about it.Especially now that they need HER help. Funny how that works.
Elsie is such an incredible friend. I love how much she and Amari balance eachother while simultaneously getting eachother out of their comfort zones. She is definitely my 2nd favorite character (Amari is number 1 obviously). I hope we get to see more science magic and maybe a transformation in book 2.
Now onto some major spoiler territory because this guy REALLY pissed me off and I just need to get it out. You have been warned. Do not pass go if you haven't read this book, okay? Okay.
WHAT THE FUCK DYLAN ARE YOU SERIOUS!? I LOVED AND TRUSTED YOU. AMARI LOVED AND TRUSTED YOU. AND YOU JUST HAD TO BE AN EVIL COCKROACH!? FUCK ALL THE WAY OFF. I had suspicios for like 5 seconds with your dark magic bullshit, but I wanted to give you the benefit of the doubt because kids are curious. Jokes on me you're actually just a 12 year old henchman to the bad guy.
Anyways
Read this book. Read THIS book. READ THIS BOOK. REEEEEEAD THIS BOOOOOK.
If you don't I'm coming for your knee caps (jk, unless?)
The world itself was so incredible. I loved getting insight on all of the different departments. And I'm so excited to see more in book two! Personally I would want to work in the department of good fortune and bad omens.
The love Amari feels for her big brother had me over come with emotion so many times. Especially when
Amari is so so brave and constantly proving others wrong. People doubt her because of where she comes from, for being black, and for being a magician. Whether it's the mundane or supernatural world people are always forming opinions about her before she even opens her mouth or acts. Her existence is a "threat" no matter where she is.
She's always being told she doesn't belong or doesn't deserve her spot. First in private school and then again at summer camp. Amari is bullied so fiercely by her peers. And the adults the grand majority of the time are just complicent in that and it was utterly disgusting to watch.
Ffs she was
At the end of the day she's Amari Amazing and there's nothing they can do about it.
Elsie is such an incredible friend. I love how much she and Amari balance eachother while simultaneously getting eachother out of their comfort zones. She is definitely my 2nd favorite character (Amari is number 1 obviously). I hope we get to see more science magic and maybe a transformation in book 2.
Now onto some major spoiler territory because this guy REALLY pissed me off and I just need to get it out. You have been warned. Do not pass go if you haven't read this book, okay? Okay.
Anyways
Read this book. Read THIS book. READ THIS BOOK. REEEEEEAD THIS BOOOOOK.
If you don't I'm coming for your knee caps (jk, unless?)
Content Warnings
Graphic: Bullying, Racism, Classism
Moderate: Kidnapping, Grief
Minor: Violence
Legends & Lattes by Travis Baldree
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
relaxing
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
I originally DNFd this book because it was right book wrong time. And I am SO happy I finally picked it up again because I absolutely adored it.
This book was a breath of fresh air. And just what I needed. I was so relaxed and cozy reading about Viv and her coffee shop.
One of my favorite aspects of this book was seeing the menu changes. It filled me with pride every time it updated.
Something else I loved was that the romance was subtle and not so much at the forefront of the story. And it didn't feel forced either. Things were just so natural.
I really wish this was a real place. I want Thimble to bake me a giant cinnamon roll and just love on Amity.
I was absolutely craving coffee and baked goods the entire time I was reading. I swear I could smell them too.
I LOVED this so much. And I can't wait to read the sequel.
The real treasure was the found family we found along the way 💕.
This book was a breath of fresh air. And just what I needed. I was so relaxed and cozy reading about Viv and her coffee shop.
One of my favorite aspects of this book was seeing the menu changes. It filled me with pride every time it updated.
Something else I loved was that the romance was subtle and not so much at the forefront of the story. And it didn't feel forced either. Things were just so natural.
I really wish this was a real place. I want Thimble to bake me a giant cinnamon roll and just love on Amity.
I was absolutely craving coffee and baked goods the entire time I was reading. I swear I could smell them too.
I LOVED this so much. And I can't wait to read the sequel.
The real treasure was the found family we found along the way 💕.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Fire/Fire injury
Moderate: Violence, Sexual harassment
Convenience Store Woman by Sayaka Murata
reflective
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
This book was unputtdownable. I read it in just a few hours. Keiko's inner monolog was just so interesting. I found her work very relaxing and comforting.
This book really sheds a light on how demanding society can be. And how we put ourselves and others under so much pressure.
Shiraha on the other hand was SO annoying. And I really could have gone my whole life without meeting him.
This book really sheds a light on how demanding society can be. And how we put ourselves and others under so much pressure.
Shiraha on the other hand was SO annoying. And I really could have gone my whole life without meeting him.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Ableism, Misogyny
Moderate: Toxic relationship, Stalking
The Roommate Risk by Talia Hibbert
emotional
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
Jasmine absolutely infuriated me while simultaneously making me want to give her the biggest hug. I loved her though and I can absolutely understand her pain/why she is the way she is. I saw a bit of myself in her. Mommy issue abandonment twinsies and all that.
I am just so incredibly proud of her for doing the work and taking care of herself. And for TRYING.And for admitting she needs help and taking that help and applying what she learns in therapy into her every day life. Ngl i do wish we got to sit in for some of those sessions.
Rahul was so kind and patient with Jasmine. It warmed my heart how much he deeply cared for her and wanted her to be happy above all else.That man WAITED for SEVEN years. Not even waiting for HER to feel the same. But just BEING THERE and being the absolute best friend ever. MY HEART.
The ending was so so sweet.I loved the 7 years later/getting to see their son. And to watch them have such a mundane and intimite moment and just still be so head over heels for eachother. I was sobbing at how beautiful it all was. What more could you want than to build a life with your best friend?
Talia I love you so much. I swear you do no wrong.
I am just so incredibly proud of her for doing the work and taking care of herself. And for TRYING.
Rahul was so kind and patient with Jasmine. It warmed my heart how much he deeply cared for her and wanted her to be happy above all else.
The ending was so so sweet.
Talia I love you so much. I swear you do no wrong.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Alcoholism, Sexual content, Abandonment
Moderate: Grief, Death of parent
I Wish You All the Best by Mason Deaver
emotional
hopeful
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Ben and I are so much alike. Both just genderless queers riddled with far too much anxiety. I loved reading about them.
This was like a big hug for my 16 year old self. I can't wait to read more from Mason!
This was like a big hug for my 16 year old self. I can't wait to read more from Mason!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Child abuse, Emotional abuse, Panic attacks/disorders, Toxic relationship, Transphobia, Gaslighting, Abandonment, Dysphoria
Other Words for Home by Jasmine Warga
emotional
hopeful
informative
inspiring
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
The only bad thing I can say about this book is that I wanted more of it. I love Jude and her family so much. The writing was gorgeous. And the audio was so immersive.
I cried multiple times reading this.When Jude put on her hijab for the first time my heart sang for her. the awful attack on her friend Layla's family's store. and the birth of her sister/seeing her brother again even through a screen.
The author's note was beautiful and powerful and brought tears to my eyes as well. I am so happy I read this.
I cried multiple times reading this.
The author's note was beautiful and powerful and brought tears to my eyes as well. I am so happy I read this.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Bullying, Hate crime, Xenophobia, Islamophobia, War
Moderate: Pregnancy
Sweet Vengeance by Viano Oniomoh
adventurous
dark
emotional
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
This book was so satisfying for me. I loved how Joy absolutely haunted and tortured her rapist. There's just something about terrible people getting exactly what they deserve that makes my heart sing.
Murder aside this book was literally SO sweet. I loved the relationship between Joy and Malachi. Not even just the spicy times (good lord were they impeccable though), but just the ease and safety they had with eachother. I felt they were both so good for eachother and really helped one another heal.
I'll definitely be reading more from Viano in the future.
Murder aside this book was literally SO sweet. I loved the relationship between Joy and Malachi. Not even just the spicy times (good lord were they impeccable though), but just the ease and safety they had with eachother. I felt they were both so good for eachother and really helped one another heal.
I'll definitely be reading more from Viano in the future.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Panic attacks/disorders, Rape, Sexual assault, Torture, Violence, Blood, Stalking, Murder
Moderate: Confinement, Incest, Pedophilia, Gaslighting
Minor: Death of parent