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tatiana_luz's reviews
21 reviews
Gideon the Ninth by Tamsyn Muir
adventurous
dark
emotional
funny
mysterious
sad
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
This book was wild from start to finish. Who opts to put necromancers in space? Muir does. And, bizarrely, it works. There is a lot of depth and nuance to the setting and how the Nine Houses interact throughout the books. Though it is longer in length, it is paced well enough to keep readers engaged. The prose itself is what made me love the book: it is equal parts humorous, tragic, and complex.
The story has left me with a lot of questions going into Harrow the Ninth, but not in the way that reflects poor explanation on the writer's part. My confusion matches the confusion of the teen characters in the story--trying to figure out how the mysterious Nine Houses System works, and what that means for their own journeys. I feel like I am along for the chaotic ride. I am excited to read more.
The story has left me with a lot of questions going into Harrow the Ninth, but not in the way that reflects poor explanation on the writer's part. My confusion matches the confusion of the teen characters in the story--trying to figure out how the mysterious Nine Houses System works, and what that means for their own journeys. I feel like I am along for the chaotic ride. I am excited to read more.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Body horror, Death, Gore, and Violence
Moderate: Cancer, Child death, and Suicide
Down Among the Sticks and Bones by Seanan McGuire
adventurous
challenging
dark
mysterious
reflective
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Jack and Jill were not my favorite characters in Every Heart a Doorway, but I prefer this installment of the series over the first one. I think largely has to do with the fact that there was less to cover in terms of world building this time/few characters to keep track of.
I enjoyed the tragedy that this was from the start, and how I was left hoping for a better outcome as I got attached to certain characters. A lot of people failed Jack and Jill along the way and they didn't have much control. That being said Jack still chose Jill at a detriment to herself. This only solidify my dislike for Jill as a person, though the book does a good job at explain that she, too, is a victim of her circumstances. The choices she was able to make were terrible, and she never thought of herself as being at fault.
I also disliked thatAlexis was killed: a total bury your gays moment.
I enjoyed the tragedy that this was from the start, and how I was left hoping for a better outcome as I got attached to certain characters. A lot of people failed Jack and Jill along the way and they didn't have much control. That being said Jack still chose Jill at a detriment to herself. This only solidify my dislike for Jill as a person, though the book does a good job at explain that she, too, is a victim of her circumstances. The choices she was able to make were terrible, and she never thought of herself as being at fault.
I also disliked that
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Blood, and Murder
Moderate: Adult/minor relationship, Emotional abuse, and Gore
The Devil's Music by Nathan Page
adventurous
dark
emotional
funny
mysterious
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
4.0
I am still in love with the series. There is more paranormal intrigue, lore, and character development in this volume. That being said, this may have hurt the rating bit. There was so much happening act two that switching between all the plot points always felt jolting.
I did like the new conflict introduced with Eli Montague. The ending conversation really showed the growing divide between Pete and Al, just like Eli and Francis before them. I wonder if they will part further or become more fiercely united in future volumes. I also liked the reversed roles of Chuck and Rachel, in which Rachel is able to see Al's struggles better than Chuck.
The theme of depression was covered well and very honestly betweenGideon's music, Francis, and Al . there may not instant or permanent healing, but there us a path forward. It was hopeful.
I did like the new conflict introduced with Eli Montague. The ending conversation really showed the growing divide between Pete and Al, just like Eli and Francis before them. I wonder if they will part further or become more fiercely united in future volumes. I also liked the reversed roles of Chuck and Rachel, in which Rachel is able to see Al's struggles better than Chuck.
The theme of depression was covered well and very honestly between
Content Warnings
Moderate: Suicidal thoughts and Suicide
Minor: Death
The Haunting of Hill House by Shirley Jackson
dark
mysterious
reflective
tense
slow-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? Yes
3.0
I had a hard time rating this book. When the spooky elements came in, the story was compelling. The author paints a vivid picture of the various haunts. I also loved the questions of whether it was a possession or mental breakdown. The theme of fears personified vs. skepticism and reality is well explored throughout.
The issue with this book was how long it took to build. While I am aware of the slower nature of gothic horror, it, Jackson's execution left little room for the climax of the story. Overall, however, I enjoyed the story and Jackson's writing style. I gave me the spooks I was craving without and excessive or gory violence. I would like to read more of her works.
The issue with this book was how long it took to build. While I am aware of the slower nature of gothic horror, it, Jackson's execution left little room for the climax of the story. Overall, however, I enjoyed the story and Jackson's writing style. I gave me the spooks I was craving without and excessive or gory violence. I would like to read more of her works.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Mental illness, and Suicide
Moderate: Blood and Death of parent
Tanqueray by Stephanie Johnson, Brandon Stanton
emotional
funny
reflective
fast-paced
4.0
Tanqueray is such a compelling read. The story is short, but so blunt and outlandish that it guaranteed to entertain readers. At the same time, there is a story outside the performance. Stephanie deserved her time was well, and this book makes sure she has her moment.. I'm glad I got to learn about the woman as well as the persona.
My only major complaint is that the story is almost entirely the story presented on Humans of New York. However, it was nice to have it all to read at once. I wish some of the stories had gone more in depth. But telling your own story can be tough, so I won't complain much. I liked the additional photos between the stories. Readers are able to see personal and societal history that way. It was fascinating to see.
My only major complaint is that the story is almost entirely the story presented on Humans of New York. However, it was nice to have it all to read at once. I wish some of the stories had gone more in depth. But telling your own story can be tough, so I won't complain much. I liked the additional photos between the stories. Readers are able to see personal and societal history that way. It was fascinating to see.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Child abuse, Drug abuse, and Sexual content
Moderate: Addiction
Lore Olympus: Volume Two by Rachel Smythe
emotional
funny
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? Yes
4.0
I loved seeing the story continue! The artwork and style are still unique and amazingly vibrant. We also get more depth in both Persephone and Hades' characters, and I felt for Minthe. She still isn't a favorite based on personality, but she became more sympathetic. Hera did as well, since she came in with a plan to get the central romantic pair together.
I do wish we got more plot though on some pages. Some panels did beautiful storytelling without dialogue, but I wanted to see more character dynamics via dialogue. Also, I know Apollo is meant to be unlikable in this story, but none of his mythology is mentioned. He has past relationships that could have been mentioned. Maybe in the next volume?
I do wish we got more plot though on some pages. Some panels did beautiful storytelling without dialogue, but I wanted to see more character dynamics via dialogue. Also, I know Apollo is meant to be unlikable in this story, but none of his mythology is mentioned. He has past relationships that could have been mentioned. Maybe in the next volume?
Content Warnings
Graphic: Emotional abuse and Toxic relationship
Moderate: Sexual assault and Sexual harassment
Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon - Eternal Edition 01 by Naoko Takeuchi
adventurous
funny
hopeful
inspiring
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
It was fun to revisit my favorite series from my childhood. It definitely satisfies part if my nostalgia for all things 90s. As an adult, I can better appreciate the plot, so reading the manga was quite special. The core story of lonely teen girls coming together through fate and an unbreakable bond of friendship? Even if they don't know how it came to be? Then they trust each other along with the process of their shared journey. It sends a lovely message of hope. It's a good lesson in youth, and a beautiful reminder as an adult: love and friendship are out there.
I also enjoyed the author's notes at the end. i love learning some behind-the-scenes secrets. It was a fun addition to a fun series.
I also enjoyed the author's notes at the end. i love learning some behind-the-scenes secrets. It was a fun addition to a fun series.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Body horror and Death
Finlay Donovan Is Killing It by Elle Cosimano
adventurous
funny
mysterious
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
This was a fun mystery. I love that Finlay is always inadvertently and accidentally successful. The author went all in on the "this person is either incredibly lucky or overpowered" concept. Because, really, Finlay has no idea what she's doing (which, you know, fair.)
My only complaint was Vero's characterization. Of course is nanny is Latina! And of course she has a cousin who sells cars for scraps. The idea of a WOC being a sidekick to a white woman's shenanigans also bugged me. I did like that Vero had skills outside the main plot though. She wants to be an accountant which was interesting. And she takes charge even is she makes mistakes. Despite the stereotypes seen in Vero's character, I do appreciate the author's attempt to discuss Finlay's privileges upbringing and how her parents paid for her education. I'd love to see more of Vero in the sequel.
The ending certainly has me wanting more as well!
My only complaint was Vero's characterization. Of course is nanny is Latina! And of course she has a cousin who sells cars for scraps. The idea of a WOC being a sidekick to a white woman's shenanigans also bugged me. I did like that Vero had skills outside the main plot though. She wants to be an accountant which was interesting. And she takes charge even is she makes mistakes. Despite the stereotypes seen in Vero's character, I do appreciate the author's attempt to discuss Finlay's privileges upbringing and how her parents paid for her education. I'd love to see more of Vero in the sequel.
The ending certainly has me wanting more as well!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Gun violence, and Murder
Moderate: Infidelity, Rape, and Sexual assault
We Had to Remove This Post by Hanna Bervoets
challenging
dark
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
I don't think this book solves anything, but I don't believe that the author had such a pretentious intent to begin with. The book is certainly a conversation starter. Do we become the thing we disagree with,if exposed for long enough? Kyo became a flat-earther and anti-Semitic, Sigrid fell into the extremes of homeopathy for her depression, and Kayleigh got caught in violent sexual fantasies. The belief is that if we do nor censor, then everyone is as risk, but those doing the censoring are are risk by viewing this content 40hrs/wk. Who looks out for them?
The pacing of this was slow to me, and the length incredibly short, but the prose was written in a way that was engaging and difficult to put down. Is it modern classic material? I feel like this story will be widely discussed for some time.
The pacing of this was slow to me, and the length incredibly short, but the prose was written in a way that was engaging and difficult to put down. Is it modern classic material? I feel like this story will be widely discussed for some time.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Self harm, Suicide, and Antisemitism
Moderate: Animal cruelty, Sexual assault, and Sexual content
How to Be Eaten by Maria Adelmann
challenging
dark
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
The book was okay. I feel like some of the women were one-dimensional (particularly Ruby and Ashlee) and, while I understand that there are various ways in which people process trauma, they were very heavy handed in the stereotypes of bimbo bachelorette and depressed rebel.
I did like the idea presented that the women in the group were like reality show characters with their stories edited to make them fill preconceived notions about women. Sadly, I feel that this aspect of the plot was introduced too late into the story. I can see why Jake Jackson being in disguise was not revealed until the end but the goal of creating a new reality TV show would have made the women's characterizations more obvious tropes than poor writing.
Also, doing the end goal reveal just a bit sooner would have made the female empowerment moment more cathartic. The way it was done felt rushed and unsatisfying.
I did like the idea presented that the women in the group were like reality show characters with their stories edited to make them fill preconceived notions about women. Sadly, I feel that this aspect of the plot was introduced too late into the story. I can see why
Also, doing the end goal reveal just a bit sooner would have made the female empowerment moment more cathartic. The way it was done felt rushed and unsatisfying.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Body horror, Sexual content, and Blood
Moderate: Fatphobia, Misogyny, Self harm, and Sexual assault
Minor: Torture