saoreads's reviews
132 reviews

If Cats Disappeared from the World by Genki Kawamura

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adventurous challenging dark emotional funny informative inspiring reflective sad tense 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

As you reach the end of this book, a lingering tear comes to your eyes, and it tugs at your heartstrings. We often find ourselves living mindlessly without meaning, yet we continue to chase something that eludes us. In the process, we face failure, regrets, and a seemingly endless cycle of remorse. Despite this, it isn't all bad because death is inevitable. However, the beauty lies in how the character perceives their journey, even though the end is predetermined.
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Home Game by Odette Stone

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adventurous dark emotional tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

2.5

Never wanted to finish a book just for the sake of completing it, mainly because too much time was spent on it to realize how cringe-worthy it is—the type of cringe that will make you avoid romance novels for a while. It's funny at this point. Additionally, there wasn't much hockey involved, which was a letdown.
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Flame in the Mist by Renée Ahdieh

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Did not finish book. Stopped at 21%.
Unnecessary wording, POVs, and world-building are hard to grasp. Had to put it down.
Trick Mirror: Reflections on Self-Delusion by Jia Tolentino

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Did not finish book. Stopped at 58%.
The book started off exceptionally well, and I initially believed I would enjoy it thoroughly. However, I discovered that my interest was mainly captured by the first half of the story. The latter parts, while intriguing, didn't resonate with my preferences as much. Skimming through these sections proved futile and ultimately felt like a waste of time.
The Undercover Economist by Tim Harford

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Did not finish book. Stopped at 46%.
It took significantly longer than expected for me to complete the book. While the initial parts were quite engaging, as the story progressed, I found it increasingly difficult to connect with the content. Ultimately, it felt like a waste of time, as my comprehension diminished, and the experience left me feeling disconnected.
The Graham Effect by Elle Kennedy

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emotional funny reflective tense 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? Yes

3.5

Evidently, I'm not a huge fan of foul language, but it leaves an impression and has some compelling qualities. The sexual tension and romance portrayed align with liberal perspectives, which can be perceived as common and cliché. However, the plot provides sufficient background for the main characters, making it easy to root for them. There were surprising twists, and it's great that the focus was on the evolution of the characters' personalities and behaviors, rather than solely the romantic aspects. Although I'm not knowledgeable about hockey, it appears to be well-represented in the narrative.
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The Red Palace by June Hur 허주은

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adventurous challenging dark emotional hopeful inspiring mysterious reflective sad tense 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

If you're familiar with historical K-dramas and enjoy them, this one is a treat. It introduces a seemingly ordinary, low-ranked character of a palace nurse who pursues the truth for someone she has no blood ties with. The character development is solid, providing a humane touch to her reactions and quick wit. The story teaches us that serving justice doesn't necessarily have to involve vengeance, and the plot addresses revenge through the central event of a massacre. How the protagonist responds to these situations, combined with elements of mystery and romance, makes for a delightful read. This fast-paced narrative can truly take your breath away. I've discovered a new author whose works I'll continue to enjoy in genres I truly love.
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What You Are Looking For Is in the Library by Michiko Aoyama

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challenging emotional inspiring lighthearted reflective sad 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

It gave "Before the coffee gets cold" vibes, and I absolutely love it. The story is tackled in phases, exploring varying ages and backstories that accumulate over time. While it may have magical realism elements, it also contains realistic aspects that are moving, not in a magical way, but in a way that challenges rigid thought processes. The struggles and worries from different age brackets are introduced, offering numerous valuable lessons. It reminds me of the saying that whoever we meet, there is always a lesson to be learned. The people we encounter, although seemingly insignificant, always make a difference in ways we may never know.
Witherward by Hannah Mathewson

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

3.5

It was all-consuming to a hazy point and never stopped moving with action. The story was filled with plentiful movements and characters intertwined, making it whole. The introduction to a certain world through a portal and sects that fight for balance within the city in their powerful forces. Although it was dynamic with the characters and plot, there were shallow edges that needed room for improvement to take advantage of the said powers. It had plenty of twists, which became draining with the sequential aspects of it through the deceit, making it possible for a book 2. Though, quite frankly, the way it ended does not really entice me to continue with the other installation.
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If You Could See the Sun by Ann Liang

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adventurous challenging dark emotional funny inspiring reflective sad tense fast-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

4.5

It masterfully combined elements of the modern century and Gen Z, speaking about instances that involved disparities among the rich, poor, and middle class, addressing issues such as racism, and prompting questions about one's own conscience. Despite involving superpowers, it presented realistic points and maintained a friendly, amiable tone, even if it might be a bit cliché and cringe-worthy. Although I'm not a big fan of how the storyline unfolded, the main character's commendable actions in shouldering responsibility while facing disadvantages are noteworthy. It's not solely due to her decisions but also influenced by other adults, creating the environment in which she navigates. It is relatable, especially for Asians. For instance, in a conversation with Henry, Alice exclaimed, "Why do I feel so f*cking tired all the time?" and I couldn't not relate that badly. The book is filled with impactful and impressionable lines that stir emotions, and I'm pleased with how it concluded. The open ending leaves room for improvement, noting that accepting uncertainties is crucial for personal growth.
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