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scipiokento's reviews
259 reviews
A Touch of Ruin by Scarlett St. Clair
3.5
"'Parabasis,' she said...to intentionally cross a line."
I enjoyed this book for the most part. It's easy to read and the plot moves quickly. There's a fair amount of drama in it which I love. I had a bit more fun with it than I thought I would since I really didn't vibe with the first one. Still wasn't on the same page with this one but it was better.
I cannot stand how Persephone is about certain things. Yea, I'm down for the back and forth but so many times I found myself asking: how many times can we make the same stupid decisions over and over again? I'm told that in the next book she has finally matured so we shall see. They still continue to have horrible communication problems which left me screaming internally at most points. I say this, but I also understand that this is how Hades and Persephone's relationship is meant to be, hot one moment and cold the next. Hades is stuck in his antiquated ways as well as his consequences of a long life, and Persephone is still young and getting her sea legs after being trapped with her mother for all of those years. I tried my best to overlook the irk and keep these in mind as best I could.
I have been dragging on reading times lately, so this was a fast, easy read to get me going again. All in all, I'm curious enough to continue with the series.
I enjoyed this book for the most part. It's easy to read and the plot moves quickly. There's a fair amount of drama in it which I love. I had a bit more fun with it than I thought I would since I really didn't vibe with the first one. Still wasn't on the same page with this one but it was better.
I have been dragging on reading times lately, so this was a fast, easy read to get me going again. All in all, I'm curious enough to continue with the series.
Content Warnings
Minor: Suicide, Kidnapping
Everything All at Once: How to Unleash Your Inner Nerd, Tap Into Radical Curiosity and Solve Any Problem by
funny
hopeful
informative
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
4.25
"There are two ways you can be rich; You can have more or you can need less."
I really enjoyed this informative look on how to take your "nerdy," approach towards the subjects you love most and apply it in other areas of your life. Nye explains that if we were to take that exciting, all encompassing hyper-fixation you feel when you engage with something you truly enjoy and apply the same idea to other aspects of our lives, we could achieve so much more.
I believe when Nye says everything all at once he is also referring to this practice of thorough investigation that much of us have experienced when completely enamored (sometimes borderline obsessed, in my case) by a particular subject. The feeling that you will never have enough information on this subject, the same feeling that keeps you doom scrolling for more information until you've exhausted all options. The excitement of wanting to know every possible thing about that subject.
Obviously, you are probably not going to have the same enamored effect with a subject you've forced yourself to investigate, but the idea is that you are capable of it and if you want to see change, you must apply that level of devotion to finding a solution. We can't continue to leave issues in the hands of others, and assume they are going to take care of it. That obviously isn't working. Nye applies this idea towards many global issues, a big one being climate change but also the idea of creating a sustainable, equally accessible, livable planet.
I always enjoy hearing Nye talk and, "Dare I say, change the world!" His passion is contagious. His wit, paired with succinct information in this book was, as always, a great joy to experience.
I really enjoyed this informative look on how to take your "nerdy," approach towards the subjects you love most and apply it in other areas of your life. Nye explains that if we were to take that exciting, all encompassing hyper-fixation you feel when you engage with something you truly enjoy and apply the same idea to other aspects of our lives, we could achieve so much more.
I believe when Nye says everything all at once he is also referring to this practice of thorough investigation that much of us have experienced when completely enamored (sometimes borderline obsessed, in my case) by a particular subject. The feeling that you will never have enough information on this subject, the same feeling that keeps you doom scrolling for more information until you've exhausted all options. The excitement of wanting to know every possible thing about that subject.
Obviously, you are probably not going to have the same enamored effect with a subject you've forced yourself to investigate, but the idea is that you are capable of it and if you want to see change, you must apply that level of devotion to finding a solution. We can't continue to leave issues in the hands of others, and assume they are going to take care of it. That obviously isn't working. Nye applies this idea towards many global issues, a big one being climate change but also the idea of creating a sustainable, equally accessible, livable planet.
I always enjoy hearing Nye talk and, "Dare I say, change the world!" His passion is contagious. His wit, paired with succinct information in this book was, as always, a great joy to experience.
The Hunters Guild: Red Hood, Vol. 1 by Yuki Kawaguchi
Did not finish book. Stopped at 46%.
Did not finish book. Stopped at 46%.
I don't have much of an explanation as to why I didn't vibe with this one. I think the story takes a well know tale and adds it's own unique spin. However, I couldn't bring myself to pick it back up again after I had taken a break from it. If I had to take a guess at it, I think the reason was most likely the age of the main character. I usually don't vibe well with younger characters. This was definitely a DNF based on my preference and not by the quality of the manga itself. I hope others can continue to find enjoyment in this but I am going to go ahead and let this one go.
A Relic Of Magic & Gold by H.M. Hodgson
Did not finish book. Stopped at 13%.
Did not finish book. Stopped at 13%.
I wanna start this by saying I really, REALLY wanted to resonate with this book. I saw the great reviews and went in hoping for the best. Unfortunately, it seems like we just weren't on the same frequency this time around. I may try to revisit this in the future and see if that stance has changed but, as much as it pains me to say, I am going to step away for now.
I enjoyed some of the clever quips sampled throughout the portion that I read, many of which I annotated in a positive light. There were several beautifully constructed ideas and thoughts as well. I thought the magic system was really interesting and appreciated the originality present in the spells as well as the attention to detail in many of the facts that I assume would lead up to larger plot points.
What it really boiled down to was the rushed pacing and repetitiveness. I appreciate the author trying to get the story going and wasting no time, however, even by the third chapter, I had yet to find a common ground with the MC which left me feeling uncertain. The character was certainly likeable and enjoyable, I just couldn't seem to commit to her. As for the repetitiveness, there were several phrases that resurfaced enough to draw my attention away from the main story line however, I understand that this may just be a personal preference.
Like I said, I may try to revisit this in the future. For now, I'm not going to rate it. I don't find it fair for me to do that if I haven't read the whole book. I still hope this book finds it's audience and that others find enjoyment in this story.
I enjoyed some of the clever quips sampled throughout the portion that I read, many of which I annotated in a positive light. There were several beautifully constructed ideas and thoughts as well. I thought the magic system was really interesting and appreciated the originality present in the spells as well as the attention to detail in many of the facts that I assume would lead up to larger plot points.
What it really boiled down to was the rushed pacing and repetitiveness. I appreciate the author trying to get the story going and wasting no time, however, even by the third chapter, I had yet to find a common ground with the MC which left me feeling uncertain. The character was certainly likeable and enjoyable, I just couldn't seem to commit to her. As for the repetitiveness, there were several phrases that resurfaced enough to draw my attention away from the main story line however, I understand that this may just be a personal preference.
Like I said, I may try to revisit this in the future. For now, I'm not going to rate it. I don't find it fair for me to do that if I haven't read the whole book. I still hope this book finds it's audience and that others find enjoyment in this story.
Her Soul for Revenge by Harley Laroux
adventurous
dark
emotional
funny
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
5.0
"Just a fury so deep and dark and burning that it could rival a God."
I loved the first book in this series and this second one was even better! I loved the relationship between Juniper and Zane. His overt cockiness counteracts her timid and untrusting nature around others due to the horrible traumas she's had to survive. Don't get it confused though! She is not at all timid by nature. She is a get it done, taking care of business badass and has managed to stay alive all this time, every day a fight for survival. Getting to see this character soften over the course of the story was truly heartwarming. I heavily resonated with her in a lot of those moments. Trusting others is hard when all you've known is the ugly side of them. I'm so happy she found her peace and somewhere she finally felt that she belonged.
Together, these main characters are jagged, brutal, hot and an all out riot. Watching Juniper and Zane act out revenge on all those who have wronged her was a thrill of a ride. Who knew revenge could be so healing? I did struggle in the spots that overlapped with the first book. I have no explanation for this because I genuinely loved the first one as well. Other than that I have no notes!
Harley is so great at constructing worlds and giving you everything you need when you need it. Her writing style and the personality that she adds to her stories is definitely recognizable. I don't know how she will elevate this story to another level but I thought the same thing when I finished the last one and here I am gushing about it. I look forward to reading through the rest of her work and for the conclusion of this series!
I loved the first book in this series and this second one was even better! I loved the relationship between Juniper and Zane. His overt cockiness counteracts her timid and untrusting nature around others due to the horrible traumas she's had to survive. Don't get it confused though! She is not at all timid by nature. She is a get it done, taking care of business badass and has managed to stay alive all this time, every day a fight for survival.
Together, these main characters are jagged, brutal, hot and an all out riot. Watching Juniper and Zane act out revenge on all those who have wronged her was a thrill of a ride. Who knew revenge could be so healing? I did struggle in the spots that overlapped with the first book. I have no explanation for this because I genuinely loved the first one as well. Other than that I have no notes!
Harley is so great at constructing worlds and giving you everything you need when you need it. Her writing style and the personality that she adds to her stories is definitely recognizable. I don't know how she will elevate this story to another level but I thought the same thing when I finished the last one and here I am gushing about it. I look forward to reading through the rest of her work and for the conclusion of this series!
As always, Please check your TW. This is a dark romance.
Romantic Killer, Vol. 2 by Wataru Momose
funny
lighthearted
relaxing
fast-paced
4.0
"The only thing bad is that face you're making."
Romantic Killer continues to remain abundantly hilarious and outrageous. We see more examples of exhausted tropes being brought into the narrative, each attempting to stand up against Momose's giggle inducing spotlight. Honestly, Riri is my favorite character and the nightmare version of a fairy godmother. Imagine a magical being appearing in your life but rather than extend any magical wishes they intend to take away everything you genuinely enjoy in an attempt to motivate you, a key tool in the plan to achieve their goal. So many times Riri refers to her paycheck that it's clear what the motivator is there. Watching Riri and Anzu troll each other has become one of my favorite pastimes. I look forward to following along with this series as it progresses.
Romantic Killer continues to remain abundantly hilarious and outrageous. We see more examples of exhausted tropes being brought into the narrative, each attempting to stand up against Momose's giggle inducing spotlight. Honestly, Riri is my favorite character and the nightmare version of a fairy godmother. Imagine a magical being appearing in your life but rather than extend any magical wishes they intend to take away everything you genuinely enjoy in an attempt to motivate you, a key tool in the plan to achieve their goal. So many times Riri refers to her paycheck that it's clear what the motivator is there. Watching Riri and Anzu troll each other has become one of my favorite pastimes. I look forward to following along with this series as it progresses.
On or Off, Volume 2 by A1
emotional
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
fast-paced
5.0
"Chin up. Everyone's eyes are on you."
I can't function after this volume. It was so sweet and has me fanbying in the most ridiculous way. The comedic relief as well as the abundance of relatable awkward social interactions remain strong in presence. Mina is also a riot during the interactions we get to see from her in this volume. At the same time, the story development between the two characters has me HOOKED. Getting to see a softer side to Kang makes me melt and watching Ahn continue to put himself out there has me rooting for him. Ahn is such a sweet soul who has so much care and consideration in his heart and that ending?!?! Ughhhhh!! I'm so sad the next physical volume isn't out yet. I don't know how I'm supposed to wait until March?!
I can't function after this volume. It was so sweet and has me fanbying in the most ridiculous way. The comedic relief as well as the abundance of relatable awkward social interactions remain strong in presence. Mina is also a riot during the interactions we get to see from her in this volume. At the same time, the story development between the two characters has me HOOKED.
On or Off, Volume 1 by A1
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Loveable characters? Yes
4.0
"Things would've been fine if he'd just turned off automatic updates."
Ahn joins his friends' startup and is chosen to present their app to SJ Corporation. During the presentation, things don't go according to plan leaving Ahn to take matters into his own hands. Knowing his friends are depending on him, he must find a way to impress Director Kang if there is any hope of their startup going anywhere.
As always, check your ratings. This is rated Mature and has explicit content.
This was a great start to what I feel will be a very interesting series. There are definitely grumpy-sunshine vibes, a little of what you could consider to be the miscommunication trope, and a sprinkling of hilariously relatable social anxiety when it comes to his friends. I thoroughly enjoyed the comedy aspect in certain circumstances our characters find themselves in. I resonated with a lot of the "awkward," interactions and enjoyed seeing that familiar experience presented in a lighthearted way. I was finally hooked when Kang, unbeknownst to Ahn, chews out Chief Kim about mistreating Ahn; He plays the corporate morality card but we all know. Or when Kang starts to give Ahn a new perspective on the value Ahn brings to his team. Also, again, when Kang finally understands the type of person Ahn actually is. I am definitely excited to see where this goes and am immediately jumping into the second one.
Ahn joins his friends' startup and is chosen to present their app to SJ Corporation. During the presentation, things don't go according to plan leaving Ahn to take matters into his own hands. Knowing his friends are depending on him, he must find a way to impress Director Kang if there is any hope of their startup going anywhere.
As always, check your ratings. This is rated Mature and has explicit content.
This was a great start to what I feel will be a very interesting series. There are definitely grumpy-sunshine vibes, a little of what you could consider to be the miscommunication trope, and a sprinkling of hilariously relatable social anxiety when it comes to his friends. I thoroughly enjoyed the comedy aspect in certain circumstances our characters find themselves in. I resonated with a lot of the "awkward," interactions and enjoyed seeing that familiar experience presented in a lighthearted way.
Slasher Maidens, Vol. 1 by Tetsuya Tashiro
adventurous
dark
funny
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
3.0
"Why am I included in this?"
The main character Asuma is a proud pervert but when he gets an invitation to attend the same school as his new crush, he vows to turn over a new leaf. However, he didn't intend for the habit he is trying to break to be a vital tool and the prime reason he has been summoned to a seemingly innocent all girl's school.
This volume was wild. I honestly don't know how to explain how I feel about it. A friend and I were both equally curious about this and agreed to give it a shot and I think we both ended up with similar conclusive opinions. The art, the kaijin, the mementos and their hierarchy as well as the way they work are all really interesting and piqued my interest. However, every time I felt I was grasping onto something in this story, I immediately lost my footing again. Especially in the final boss battle of this volume when Asuma was particularly more...agressive I think the power system and the base plot are solid but are thrown off kilter by this particularly "quirky" character. This is a first volume so perhaps future volumes will help to sway me but for now it looks like I'll remain on the fence about it.
The main character Asuma is a proud pervert but when he gets an invitation to attend the same school as his new crush, he vows to turn over a new leaf. However, he didn't intend for the habit he is trying to break to be a vital tool and the prime reason he has been summoned to a seemingly innocent all girl's school.
This volume was wild. I honestly don't know how to explain how I feel about it. A friend and I were both equally curious about this and agreed to give it a shot and I think we both ended up with similar conclusive opinions. The art, the kaijin, the mementos and their hierarchy as well as the way they work are all really interesting and piqued my interest. However, every time I felt I was grasping onto something in this story, I immediately lost my footing again.
The Titan's Bride Vol. 2 by ITKZ
adventurous
emotional
funny
fast-paced
5.0
"No matter what you do or how you change, I will always love you."
The main characters continue to try and find the cure to Kouichi's ailment and this volume picks up again where Caius and Kouichi are realizing their trust has been betrayed.
This story keeps pulling me in. Let's be real: it has super mature content, it's tropey, it's predictable and I'm here for it. The characters are loveable and I enjoy the easy read that this is. I like that there are plenty of mature scenes as well as an interesting plot. In my opinion, the spice and the plot are pretty evenly distributed throughout. This series has a lot of my favorite tropes and themes which helps keep me on the dopamine train. All in all, this series knows it's intent while doing it well and I genuinely have fun reading it.
The main characters continue to try and find the cure to Kouichi's ailment and this volume picks up again where Caius and Kouichi are realizing their trust has been betrayed.
This story keeps pulling me in. Let's be real: it has super mature content, it's tropey, it's predictable and I'm here for it. The characters are loveable and I enjoy the easy read that this is. I like that there are plenty of mature scenes as well as an interesting plot. In my opinion, the spice and the plot are pretty evenly distributed throughout. This series has a lot of my favorite tropes and themes which helps keep me on the dopamine train. All in all, this series knows it's intent while doing it well and I genuinely have fun reading it.