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rgoth's reviews
390 reviews
He Said/She Said by Erin Kelly
challenging
dark
emotional
mysterious
reflective
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.75
Erin Kelly masterfully crafts twisty psychological thrillers filled with characters who are deeply unlikable, yet their flaws reveal layers far different from what you might initially assume. She possesses a remarkable ability to make these individuals feel completely fleshed out and genuine, driving an insatiable urge to uncover the truth behind their motivations and actions.
In this latest novel, I genuinely found myself caught off guard by several unexpected twists, which added to the excitement. Just when I thought I had a grasp on the unfolding mystery, I would get a piece of the puzzle right, only to be blindsided chapters later by a twist that turned my understanding upside down.
The narrative unfolds through two primary points of view and spans two distinct time periods. While this dual perspective structure isn't typically my favorite style, it worked remarkably well in this instance, sustaining the tension and suspense right up to the final pages.
In this latest novel, I genuinely found myself caught off guard by several unexpected twists, which added to the excitement. Just when I thought I had a grasp on the unfolding mystery, I would get a piece of the puzzle right, only to be blindsided chapters later by a twist that turned my understanding upside down.
The narrative unfolds through two primary points of view and spans two distinct time periods. While this dual perspective structure isn't typically my favorite style, it worked remarkably well in this instance, sustaining the tension and suspense right up to the final pages.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Infertility, Infidelity, Rape, Toxic relationship, Fire/Fire injury
Butcher by Joyce Carol Oates
challenging
dark
emotional
informative
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.25
This book was quite intense, and since it was based on factual documents, it had a significant emotional impact on me.
The writing is exceptionally well done, and I appreciated how the author utilised various documents to present different points of view.
However, I felt it was a bit longer than necessary. Overall, though, I enjoyed it.
The writing is exceptionally well done, and I appreciated how the author utilised various documents to present different points of view.
However, I felt it was a bit longer than necessary. Overall, though, I enjoyed it.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Mental illness, Misogyny, Physical abuse, Sexual assault, Sexual violence, Slavery, Medical content, Schizophrenia/Psychosis
Girl in Trouble by Stacy Claflin
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
mysterious
medium-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? Yes
3.0
This Is What Happened by Mick Herron
medium-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
3.0
This book was ok and I finished it quickly but as many others have pointed out; it bears little resemblance to what the premise suggests. I had expected an entirely different reading experience.
The storyline had its moments, and some of the twists were indeed clever, but they unfolded too early, causing the pacing to drag in the latter half. I was really anticipating a more impactful climax, but unfortunately, it just never materialised.
My biggest frustration, however, stemmed from the characters' lack of depth. None of them resonated with me, and I found it hard to believe that Maggie would be so naïve in real life. Her gullibility felt forced and unrealistic, making it difficult to connect with her or care about her journey.
The storyline had its moments, and some of the twists were indeed clever, but they unfolded too early, causing the pacing to drag in the latter half. I was really anticipating a more impactful climax, but unfortunately, it just never materialised.
My biggest frustration, however, stemmed from the characters' lack of depth. None of them resonated with me, and I found it hard to believe that Maggie would be so naïve in real life. Her gullibility felt forced and unrealistic, making it difficult to connect with her or care about her journey.
The Widow's Husband's Secret Lie: A Satirical Novella by Freida McFadden
funny
lighthearted
fast-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
This book is a riot! I absolutely love how McFadden isn't afraid to poke fun at herself, even cheekily referencing her own works within the narrative.
The absurdity of her references, like the infamous Blue & Black/White & Gold dress debate, the comical mix-up of LED vs. IUD, and the juxtaposition of pregnancy and COVID tests, had me chuckling out loud. It’s a delightfully ridiculous collection of ideas that kept me amused.
The plot may meander and defy logic at times, with twists that are nothing short of wild, particularly her outrageous explanations for why her husband is portrayed as a monster. Those just had me in stitches!
While I wouldn't say this is the best book I've read this month let alone this year—nor is it the pinnacle of McFadden's literary achievements—it provided the perfect dose of satirical nonsense that I desperately needed right now. 😂
The absurdity of her references, like the infamous Blue & Black/White & Gold dress debate, the comical mix-up of LED vs. IUD, and the juxtaposition of pregnancy and COVID tests, had me chuckling out loud. It’s a delightfully ridiculous collection of ideas that kept me amused.
The plot may meander and defy logic at times, with twists that are nothing short of wild, particularly her outrageous explanations for why her husband is portrayed as a monster. Those just had me in stitches!
While I wouldn't say this is the best book I've read this month let alone this year—nor is it the pinnacle of McFadden's literary achievements—it provided the perfect dose of satirical nonsense that I desperately needed right now. 😂
Barrowbeck by Andrew Michael Hurley
dark
mysterious
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.0
I enjoyed that all the stories were based around the same hamlet and that they spanned different periods throughout time, but as with most short stories, some were better than others. Some sucked me in, and we're really atmospheric, but others weren't as good.
Cursed Bread by Sophie Mackintosh
dark
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
2.75
A wild ride, not necessarily a good one.
We Know You Know by Erin Kelly
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
mysterious
reflective
sad
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.0
I truly found myself captivated by this book and loved the way the story gradually unfolded its intricate layers.
The pacing was deliberate and measured, allowing the secrets to reveal themselves slowly yet inevitably. Kelly possesses an extraordinary talent for drawing readers in with her captivating storytelling and beautifully developed characters that feel incredibly real.
At first, I thought I had Helen all figured out, anticipating that I would come to dislike her. However, as the plot progressed and more layers of her character were revealed, I completely shifted my perspective and found myself empathizing with her.
While this narrative is a work of fiction, it serves as a poignant reminder of the historical treatment of individuals—particularly women—in mental health facilities. It’s unsettling to reflect on the not-so-distant past when many of these antiquated "asylums" were still operational, highlighting the often overlooked injustices faced by vulnerable populations.
Despite its slow burn, I was deeply invested in the storyline. I must admit, the conclusion didn’t completely satisfy my expectations, yet overall, my love for the book won out
The pacing was deliberate and measured, allowing the secrets to reveal themselves slowly yet inevitably. Kelly possesses an extraordinary talent for drawing readers in with her captivating storytelling and beautifully developed characters that feel incredibly real.
At first, I thought I had Helen all figured out, anticipating that I would come to dislike her. However, as the plot progressed and more layers of her character were revealed, I completely shifted my perspective and found myself empathizing with her.
While this narrative is a work of fiction, it serves as a poignant reminder of the historical treatment of individuals—particularly women—in mental health facilities. It’s unsettling to reflect on the not-so-distant past when many of these antiquated "asylums" were still operational, highlighting the often overlooked injustices faced by vulnerable populations.
Despite its slow burn, I was deeply invested in the storyline. I must admit, the conclusion didn’t completely satisfy my expectations, yet overall, my love for the book won out
Content Warnings
Moderate: Self harm, Forced institutionalization, Dementia, Abortion
Notes on Infinity by Austin Taylor
challenging
dark
hopeful
sad
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
This book is a beautifully intricate tapestry of emotions and I found it addictive. You can immediately sense the author's scientific mindset; the depth of research behind the narrative is palpable, adding a rich layer of authenticity to the storytelling.
Initially, I found myself put off by Zoe. She struck me as an arrogant, privileged brat, someone who was hard to empathise with. However, the more I read and the backstory gradually unfolded, my perspective shifted. Her relationship with the family revealed nuances and complexities that made her character much more relatable and sympathetic.
Zoe's dynamic with Jack was particularly captivating. It was fraught with tension and complexity that had me almost shouting at the pages in frustration. Both are remarkably intelligent, academically gifted individuals, yet their decisions often defy logic, leaving me exasperated yet engrossed.
Jack's narrative was equally compelling, slowly unravelling like a tightly wound coil. Despite the challenges he faced, I found myself rooting for him, hoping he'd find his way through the labyrinth of his circumstances.
However, I did have some issues with the story, firstly I can't begin to imagine why Zoe would take a backseat on the science aspect of the business. She loves the science so why wouldn't she also want to be in the lab? I understand the plausible explanation given in the book but I just can't see someone like Zoe giving in to this pressure or giving up her love of the lab.
Also we can talk about this wonderful love story, and even I was totally sucked in by Jack but let's not pretend that what he did was totally wrong. He lied and gaslit her. She even became the face of the business. How can you do this to someone you're supposed to love?
While the story plunges into bleakness at times, it makes the lighter moments all the more impactful. I believe this author has immense potential, and I eagerly anticipate what literary gems they will present in the future.
A heartfelt thanks to the author, the publishers, and NetGalley for providing an advanced reader copy of this book. This review reflects my own thoughts and opinions.
Initially, I found myself put off by Zoe. She struck me as an arrogant, privileged brat, someone who was hard to empathise with. However, the more I read and the backstory gradually unfolded, my perspective shifted. Her relationship with the family revealed nuances and complexities that made her character much more relatable and sympathetic.
Zoe's dynamic with Jack was particularly captivating. It was fraught with tension and complexity that had me almost shouting at the pages in frustration. Both are remarkably intelligent, academically gifted individuals, yet their decisions often defy logic, leaving me exasperated yet engrossed.
Jack's narrative was equally compelling, slowly unravelling like a tightly wound coil. Despite the challenges he faced, I found myself rooting for him, hoping he'd find his way through the labyrinth of his circumstances.
However, I did have some issues with the story, firstly I can't begin to imagine why Zoe would take a backseat on the science aspect of the business. She loves the science so why wouldn't she also want to be in the lab? I understand the plausible explanation given in the book but I just can't see someone like Zoe giving in to this pressure or giving up her love of the lab.
Also we can talk about this wonderful love story, and even I was totally sucked in by Jack but let's not pretend that what he did was totally wrong. He lied and gaslit her. She even became the face of the business. How can you do this to someone you're supposed to love?
While the story plunges into bleakness at times, it makes the lighter moments all the more impactful. I believe this author has immense potential, and I eagerly anticipate what literary gems they will present in the future.
A heartfelt thanks to the author, the publishers, and NetGalley for providing an advanced reader copy of this book. This review reflects my own thoughts and opinions.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Child abuse, Suicide