takara_reads's reviews
124 reviews

The Prospects by KT Hoffman

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.0

"The Prospects" by KT Hoffman is a captivating novel that masterfully intertwines the complexities of personal identity and the competitive world of minor league baseball. The story follows an underdog team struggling to find their place both on and off the field, with a narrative that goes beyond the typical sports drama to explore themes of love, self-discovery, and resilience. 

One of the most commendable aspects of Hoffman's writing is the thoughtful and authentic LGBTQ+ representation. The characters are portrayed with depth and sensitivity, making their journeys feel incredibly real and relatable. The relationships are woven seamlessly into the narrative, never feeling forced or tokenistic. This representation is a breath of fresh air and adds a rich layer to the story, making it resonate deeply with readers looking for inclusivity in contemporary fiction. 

However, while the character development and emotional arcs are outstanding, the novel does have its drawbacks. For readers not well-versed in baseball terminology, the extensive use of jargon can be somewhat overwhelming. The detailed play-by-plays and technical language, while likely accurate and appreciated by baseball enthusiasts, might alienate those who are less familiar with the sport. This aspect occasionally disrupts the flow of the story, pulling readers out of the otherwise immersive experience. 

Despite this, "The Prospects" remains a compelling read, largely due to Hoffman's skill in creating vivid, relatable characters and tackling important social themes. The novel's strength lies in its ability to humanize its characters, showing their struggles and triumphs in a way that feels both genuine and heartwarming. It’s a story that celebrates diversity and the courage to be true to oneself, making it a significant addition to the landscape of LGBTQ+ literature. 

Twenty Love Poems and a Song of Despair by Cristina García, W.S. Merwin, Pablo Neruda

3.25

Riding the Sugar High by Letizia Lorini

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

Riding the Sugar High by Letizia Lorini is a delightful novel. The relationship between Logan and Primrose stands out as a highlight, showcasing a loving, supportive dynamic filled with mutual respect and understanding. Their interactions are heartwarming and inspiring, portraying a healthy partnership where both individuals encourage each other's personal and professional growth. 

I also appreciated the inclusion of characters from the first book, which added a sense of continuity and depth to the story. Seeing familiar faces again enriched the narrative and made the world feel more authentic and connected. 

Overall, Riding the Sugar High is a beautifully crafted novel that blends romance, character development, and positive messages about love and partnership. Letizia Lorini has once again delivered a captivating and emotionally satisfying story that fans of contemporary romance will thoroughly enjoy. 

Hits Different by Lizzie Huxley-Jones, Tasha Ghouri

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

4.0

“Hits Different" by Lizzie Huxley-Jones and  Tasha Ghouri is a heartfelt novel that excels in representing disability and non-binary identity. It follows Cassie, a dancer with a disability, on a journey of self-esteem and passion. Cassie's love for dancing is vividly portrayed, showcasing how it empowers and liberates her. 

The story also explores Cassie's realization of her worth, culminating in her decision to leave a dismissive partner. This adds depth to the narrative, highlighting the importance of self-respect and breaking free from toxic relationships. 

Overall, "Hits Different" is an inspiring read, celebrating self-discovery and the power of passion with authentic and thoughtful representation. 

A Love Letter to Whiskey: 5th Anniversary Edition by Kandi Steiner

adventurous challenging dark emotional funny hopeful 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? Yes

4.25

“A Love Letter to Whiskey" by Kandi Steiner is a raw, emotional journey through the complexities of love, timing, and personal growth. From the first page, I was captivated by the genuine connection between the protagonists, B and Jamie. Their chemistry is palpable, their interactions electric, and their deep-seated bond undeniable. 

What stands out most in this novel is the authenticity of their relationship. Steiner crafts their connection with such care and detail that you can feel the intensity of their emotions. Whether they are friends, lovers, or anything in between, their bond transcends the typical romance trope and delves into the realm of soulmates. It's this depth that kept me turning the pages, eager to see where their journey would take them next. 

However, the story is not without its challenges. Timing, as it often is in life, is the biggest antagonist in B and Jamie's love story. Just when it seems like they might finally find their happy ending, life throws another curveball, pulling them apart. This constant push and pull can be heart-wrenching to witness, but it's also what makes their story so relatable and realistic. The frustration of near misses and the agony of opportunities lost to bad timing will resonate with anyone who has ever experienced the bittersweet nature of love. 

One aspect of the novel that I found complex and thought-provoking was the theme of infidelity. Steiner does not shy away from the messy, uncomfortable realities of human relationships. While I typically struggle with narratives that involve cheating, Steiner handles it with a nuanced touch, exploring the motivations and emotions behind the characters' actions. It adds a layer of depth to the story, making it not just a love story but a tale of personal growth, mistakes, and redemption. 

In conclusion, "A Love Letter to Whiskey" is a poignant and compelling read that will take you on an emotional rollercoaster. The genuine connection between B and Jamie, coupled with the ever-elusive right timing, makes for a captivating narrative that is hard to put down. Even with its darker themes, such as infidelity, the novel remains a powerful exploration of love's complexities. For anyone looking for a romance that digs deep into the heart's true desires and struggles, this book is a must-read. 

The Write Place by Allie Samberts

challenging emotional funny hopeful sad tense 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? It's complicated

5.0

As a fellow teacher, "The Write Place" by Allie Samberts spoke to me on a deeply personal level. The novel brilliantly captures the joys and challenges of our profession, showcasing the profound impact educators can have on their students' lives. Samberts' portrayal of the teaching environment is both heartwarming and inspiring, reminding me of the reasons I entered this field in the first place.

One of the standout aspects of the book is its positive depiction of teaching. The protagonist, Mac, is dedicated and passionate, embodying the best qualities of an educator. Through her interactions with students and colleagues, the novel highlights the fulfillment that comes from fostering a love for learning and the meaningful relationships that develop in the classroom.

On the romantic front, Daniel is an incredibly romantic character. His gestures and unwavering support for Mac are truly endearing. Mac's journey to find love felt well-deserved, given her dedication and the challenges she faced. The fact that Daniel dedicated his book to her adds a beautiful and touching layer to their relationship, making their love story all the more special.

The novel's plot was unexpectedly engaging, filled with genuine emotion and relatable experiences. Samberts' writing kept me hooked from start to finish, and I found myself eagerly turning the pages to see how Mac and Daniel's story would unfold.

I was thrilled to discover that there will be a follow-up focusing on Jenny's story. Given how much I enjoyed "The Write Place," I can’t wait to see what Samberts has in store for her next. This book is a must-read for anyone who appreciates a well-crafted love story and the intrinsic rewards of teaching. Highly recommended!

Crushes, Friends, & Us by Willa Drew

fast-paced

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

4.0

“Crushes, Friends, & Us" by Willa Drew is a delightful young adult novel that perfectly captures the essence of teenage life, friendship, and first love. The long-awaited romance between Sarah and Nick is handled with care and authenticity, making their eventual relationship a satisfying and heartwarming relief for readers.

The dynamic of their filmmaking group adds an exciting layer to the story. Watching the creative process and seeing their film come together is fascinating and showcases the characters' dedication and passion.

Overall, this book is a charming and engaging read, blending romance and creativity in a way that resonates deeply with young adult readers.

It Happened One Summer by Tessa Bailey

medium-paced

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

5.0

"It Happened One Summer" by Tessa Bailey is a charming contemporary romance that follows Piper Bellinger, a glamorous L.A. socialite sent to a small Washington town after a scandal. There, she meets Brendan Taggart, a gruff sea captain who becomes an unlikely match for her. Bailey's writing is witty and engaging, with well-developed characters and sizzling chemistry. Piper's transformation and the heartfelt love story, set against a vividly depicted small-town backdrop, make this novel a delightful summer read. It's a perfect blend of humor, romance, and self-discovery.

The Same Earth by Kei Miller

3.0

The Wedding Menu by Letizia Lorini

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

5.0

“The Wedding Menu" by Letizia Lorini tells a beautiful yet heartbreaking love story marred by years of miscommunication. The shocking deceit of the father adds a dramatic twist, deeply affecting the family.

The novel's food theme is a standout, with vivid descriptions of French cuisine enriching the narrative. The wedding menu symbolically ties the story together, making it a feast for both the heart and senses.
Overall, this poignant novel blends romance and culinary delight, making it an unforgettable read. The food theme was particularly enjoyable and added a unique flavor to the story.