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the_lectorem's Reviews (35)
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
relaxing
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Every once in a while, after reading intense fiction, I crave a break to enjoy something light and fun. Little did I know when I picked up this book that it would deliver exactly what I needed. Keeper by Michael Lasco is an urban fantasy set on a Scottish island, where our protagonist, Rowena McKinley, receives a misdirected parcel that turns her life upside down from the moment she opens it. Already struggling with a personal and career crisis, Ro suddenly finds herself responsible—without ever signing up for it—for three baby dragons. These aren't just ordinary dragons, but magical creatures, each with unique powers that they bestow upon the person they bond with. Ro must return the dragons to the Keeper in Albania before Boruta’s forces (yes, the bad guys) can harm her or the dragons.
I personally found this book thoroughly entertaining for several reasons. First, it has a fast-paced, linear storyline that stays mostly focused on Ro and avoids unnecessary fillers or side plots. Second, the situational humor embedded in the writing had me chuckling more than once. The humor doesn’t feel forced; instead, it flows naturally through the characters’ responses, behaviors, and reactions. Third, the magic system—centered around the adorable baby dragons, mystical beasts like Bauks, and the multidimensional origin of these creatures—is fresh and imaginative.
Though the story is set in the modern world, the author has taken care to include logical details that keep everything grounded. Nothing feels random or over-the-top; everything fits together well and makes sense within the context of the story. I particularly loved the characterization of Ro more than that of Keeper or Tyler. Throughout the book, Ro is hyper-aware of the situations around her, torn between the instinct to protect the dragons and the temptation to walk away from a responsibility she never asked for.
What I felt was lacking was a deeper exploration of the Keeper's powers and more detail in the battle scenes where those powers were used.
The book doesn’t conclude the story but ends on a teasing note, hinting at the next adventure of Ro and her team. Overall, I highly recommend it. It’s a light yet engaging read that honestly felt like a Netflix original series. Even though it seemed simple at first, now that I reflect on everything I read and experienced, the story reveals multiple layers and aspects that added depth to both the plot and the characters.
I personally found this book thoroughly entertaining for several reasons. First, it has a fast-paced, linear storyline that stays mostly focused on Ro and avoids unnecessary fillers or side plots. Second, the situational humor embedded in the writing had me chuckling more than once. The humor doesn’t feel forced; instead, it flows naturally through the characters’ responses, behaviors, and reactions. Third, the magic system—centered around the adorable baby dragons, mystical beasts like Bauks, and the multidimensional origin of these creatures—is fresh and imaginative.
Though the story is set in the modern world, the author has taken care to include logical details that keep everything grounded. Nothing feels random or over-the-top; everything fits together well and makes sense within the context of the story. I particularly loved the characterization of Ro more than that of Keeper or Tyler. Throughout the book, Ro is hyper-aware of the situations around her, torn between the instinct to protect the dragons and the temptation to walk away from a responsibility she never asked for.
What I felt was lacking was a deeper exploration of the Keeper's powers and more detail in the battle scenes where those powers were used.
The book doesn’t conclude the story but ends on a teasing note, hinting at the next adventure of Ro and her team. Overall, I highly recommend it. It’s a light yet engaging read that honestly felt like a Netflix original series. Even though it seemed simple at first, now that I reflect on everything I read and experienced, the story reveals multiple layers and aspects that added depth to both the plot and the characters.
dark
tense
fast-paced
I enjoy reading science fiction books that blend multiverse or parallel dimension concepts, and Callasandra Fractured by Stephanie Douglas turned out to be a YA sci-fi dystopian thriller that delivered just that. It follows Cassi’s journey into another dimension, in a country called Cimerrion—governed by strict rules and constant monitoring that control individuals’ behavior and choices. The world-building reminded me of 1984 by George Orwell, mixed with the glamor and spectacle of The Hunger Games: Catching Fire. This blend works exceptionally well, especially when the author introduces themes of power, leadership, and a highly controlled economy.
The story begins at a fast pace, especially in the first few chapters. Though the narrative slows slightly later, the intense psychological tension makes up for it. The transformation of Cassandra into Callasandra—to blend in and avoid being identified as a “Disunited”—adds depth and suspense. The plot takes an unexpected and darker turn when the illusion of glamor fades, and the brutal reality of being an “entertainer” is revealed. Cassi must then fight to find her way back to her family before time runs out.
Characters like Marissa and Joren serve as Cassi’s emotional backbone, while the sadistic Sergeant Leonard adds a horrifying layer of tension that lingers throughout the book.
What stood out most for me was the unique integration of music into the story. The author collaborated with various artists to produce exclusive tracks, accessible through QR codes in the book. This was my first time experiencing something like this, and it truly elevated the reading experience—almost cinematic in nature.
One drawback, however, is the lack of scientific explanation, which is notable for a science fiction novel. For instance, Cassi’s shift from one dimension to another is vague and underdeveloped. It’s possible the author is saving those details for the sequel, especially since the book ends on a cliffhanger, leaving several questions unanswered. Also, I found Cassi’s character a bit weak and overly dependent on others. Aside from her efforts to adapt to Cimerrion’s rules for survival, her personal growth felt limited.
Overall, I appreciated the world-building and immersive storytelling, and I would definitely recommend Callasandra Fractured to fans of 1984 or The Hunger Games.
The story begins at a fast pace, especially in the first few chapters. Though the narrative slows slightly later, the intense psychological tension makes up for it. The transformation of Cassandra into Callasandra—to blend in and avoid being identified as a “Disunited”—adds depth and suspense. The plot takes an unexpected and darker turn when the illusion of glamor fades, and the brutal reality of being an “entertainer” is revealed. Cassi must then fight to find her way back to her family before time runs out.
Characters like Marissa and Joren serve as Cassi’s emotional backbone, while the sadistic Sergeant Leonard adds a horrifying layer of tension that lingers throughout the book.
What stood out most for me was the unique integration of music into the story. The author collaborated with various artists to produce exclusive tracks, accessible through QR codes in the book. This was my first time experiencing something like this, and it truly elevated the reading experience—almost cinematic in nature.
One drawback, however, is the lack of scientific explanation, which is notable for a science fiction novel. For instance, Cassi’s shift from one dimension to another is vague and underdeveloped. It’s possible the author is saving those details for the sequel, especially since the book ends on a cliffhanger, leaving several questions unanswered. Also, I found Cassi’s character a bit weak and overly dependent on others. Aside from her efforts to adapt to Cimerrion’s rules for survival, her personal growth felt limited.
Overall, I appreciated the world-building and immersive storytelling, and I would definitely recommend Callasandra Fractured to fans of 1984 or The Hunger Games.
informative
Sometimes, people invest so much in a relationship, only to be met with heartbreak and disappointment they never deserved. Such relationships often end badly due to an inability to recognize the warning signs—what we call red flags.
In this eye-opening book, author RocJane delves into the complex and often dangerous dynamics of relationships, exploring various red flags that everyone should be aware of. This detailed book covers more than a few dozen warning signs, helping readers identify them early and avoid traumatic experiences.
One of the most remarkable aspects of this book is how the author presents multiple real-life scenarios and examples, making it easier to understand and recognize red flags in relationships. I found the writing style quirky, which added a fun and engaging touch to the reading experience.
By the final page, this book leaves a lasting impact, providing clarity on relationships and red flags while encouraging greater awareness of the darker sides of love.
In this eye-opening book, author RocJane delves into the complex and often dangerous dynamics of relationships, exploring various red flags that everyone should be aware of. This detailed book covers more than a few dozen warning signs, helping readers identify them early and avoid traumatic experiences.
One of the most remarkable aspects of this book is how the author presents multiple real-life scenarios and examples, making it easier to understand and recognize red flags in relationships. I found the writing style quirky, which added a fun and engaging touch to the reading experience.
By the final page, this book leaves a lasting impact, providing clarity on relationships and red flags while encouraging greater awareness of the darker sides of love.
informative
fast-paced
Being in a relationship is a vital stage in life where people invest in each other to grow, evolve, and build a future together. A person’s overall well-being and happiness often depend on how they are treated in their relationships. Unfortunately, many individuals struggle with toxic relationships that leave them emotionally vulnerable and negatively impact their mental health. Breaking Free A Guide to Leaving Toxic Relationships by Roc Jane is an insightful book that masterfully explores the dynamics of toxic relationships, highlighting common traits, control tactics, and their emotional and psychological consequences.
What I truly found commendable is how the author provides systematic steps for setting boundaries and safely exiting toxic relationships. Additionally, several chapters focus on reconnecting with oneself, healing from past emotional trauma, and rebuilding self-esteem. Rather than solely emphasizing the negative effects of toxic relationships, the author dedicates more attention to guiding readers through navigating chaos, seeking healthy connections, and nurturing relationships that add value to their lives.
I believe this book will be especially helpful for those who are unsure about the red flags in their relationships or feel trapped in a toxic situation. It offers clarity, encouragement, and practical advice for anyone seeking to break free and move toward healthier relationships.
What I truly found commendable is how the author provides systematic steps for setting boundaries and safely exiting toxic relationships. Additionally, several chapters focus on reconnecting with oneself, healing from past emotional trauma, and rebuilding self-esteem. Rather than solely emphasizing the negative effects of toxic relationships, the author dedicates more attention to guiding readers through navigating chaos, seeking healthy connections, and nurturing relationships that add value to their lives.
I believe this book will be especially helpful for those who are unsure about the red flags in their relationships or feel trapped in a toxic situation. It offers clarity, encouragement, and practical advice for anyone seeking to break free and move toward healthier relationships.
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
medium-paced
"Embracing Release" is an emotional journey that follows Sarah and John as they confront their individual vulnerabilities and shortcomings as human beings. They navigate their struggles by choosing acceptance, forgiveness, and self-compassion. Both characters carry past issues and emotional wounds that have the potential to disrupt the peace of their relationship, but their courage to embrace change and choose one another over their past makes this book deeply relatable.
The author remarkably captures the true essence of a relationship, which is never a smooth road but filled with ups and downs. Through Sarah and John's story, we understand the importance of communication, recognizing each other's emotional needs, and having the passion to grow together despite temporary setbacks.
I wouldn’t have picked up this book if it had been a cliché traditional romance, but Embracing Release focuses on raw and grounded emotions, making it an accessible and engaging read for everyone. At times, I found the language slightly repetitive, but overall, it was a meaningful read that delivers valuable lessons through its storytelling.
The author remarkably captures the true essence of a relationship, which is never a smooth road but filled with ups and downs. Through Sarah and John's story, we understand the importance of communication, recognizing each other's emotional needs, and having the passion to grow together despite temporary setbacks.
I wouldn’t have picked up this book if it had been a cliché traditional romance, but Embracing Release focuses on raw and grounded emotions, making it an accessible and engaging read for everyone. At times, I found the language slightly repetitive, but overall, it was a meaningful read that delivers valuable lessons through its storytelling.
informative
reflective
fast-paced
According to the World Health Organization, almost 4% of the population suffers from anxiety disorders. Unraveling Anxiety is written in a way that breaks down different types of anxiety, its causes, and its impact on mental and physical health, making it easy to understand. The author explains how anxiety manifests in a person and the key factors that contribute to it. I particularly liked the section where the author discusses the psychological and physical effects of anxiety, including how it can lead to negative thinking patterns, body pain, and digestive issues.
In addition to explaining the nature of anxiety, the author provides practical and actionable strategies such as cognitive restructuring, mindfulness, and relaxation techniques to help manage anxiety symptoms. I personally found this helpful because the book encourages readers to become aware of their thoughts, reframe them, make necessary lifestyle adjustments, and seek professional support when needed. The author makes it clear that this book is not a replacement for therapy but rather a tool to help individuals in the early stages of anxiety.
Although this book is written in very simple and precise language, its compact size makes it an excellent handbook that can be read in just a few sittings.
In addition to explaining the nature of anxiety, the author provides practical and actionable strategies such as cognitive restructuring, mindfulness, and relaxation techniques to help manage anxiety symptoms. I personally found this helpful because the book encourages readers to become aware of their thoughts, reframe them, make necessary lifestyle adjustments, and seek professional support when needed. The author makes it clear that this book is not a replacement for therapy but rather a tool to help individuals in the early stages of anxiety.
Although this book is written in very simple and precise language, its compact size makes it an excellent handbook that can be read in just a few sittings.
hopeful
informative
reflective
medium-paced
People-pleasing comes with its own set of consequences that can take a toll on mental and emotional well-being, and this book does a wonderful job of explaining the complexity and psychological roots of people-pleasing, such as childhood experiences, societal conditioning, and the fear of rejection and abandonment. Even though this book is written in a very simple and straightforward way, the author doesn't shy away from deliberately explaining how people-pleasing can result in emotional exhaustion, resentment, and a loss of self-worth.
A major part of this book focuses on providing productive strategies and developing the habit of saying NO without feeling guilty. What I loved the most about this book are the chapters where the author explains the significance of boundaries, types of boundaries, and various ways to communicate them assertively. All people-pleasers must be aware that even setting boundaries is the kryptonite of people-pleasing, and there are always some kinds of pushbacks from others even after saying NO. The author provides self-reflecting suggestions to reinforce boundaries in the face of pushbacks.
This book is very insightful, and people who find it hard to say NO will find it very helpful because it doesn't just teach helpful steps but also uses real-life examples and case studies to emphasize the discussed topics.
A major part of this book focuses on providing productive strategies and developing the habit of saying NO without feeling guilty. What I loved the most about this book are the chapters where the author explains the significance of boundaries, types of boundaries, and various ways to communicate them assertively. All people-pleasers must be aware that even setting boundaries is the kryptonite of people-pleasing, and there are always some kinds of pushbacks from others even after saying NO. The author provides self-reflecting suggestions to reinforce boundaries in the face of pushbacks.
This book is very insightful, and people who find it hard to say NO will find it very helpful because it doesn't just teach helpful steps but also uses real-life examples and case studies to emphasize the discussed topics.
challenging
hopeful
tense
medium-paced
Shattered Earth is a gripping exploration of a global catastrophe caused by massive earthquakes that reshape the world, forcing humanity onto a survival path and redefining civilization as we know it. Dr. Evelyn Harper, a leading seismologist, warns the government—much like in every classic disaster movie—but, as expected, her warnings are ignored until disaster knocks on their door. This book presents the possibility of large-scale environmental destruction and its devastating impact on humanity.
At times, Shattered Earth feels like an anthology of several small stories, following individuals and survival groups as they navigate destruction, resource scarcity, and the struggle to rebuild a functioning society. Alongside these stories, the book maintains a consistent narrative thread following Evelyn and James, who embark on a research expedition with the goal of understanding the seismic phenomenon, predicting future disasters, and laying the groundwork for future generations. A significant portion of the book explores how both urban and rural populations cope with the challenges they face, demonstrating how mutual cooperation and collaboration lead to survival and renewal. What was once a familiar world quickly collapses into dystopia, and the author does a commendable job of portraying humanity’s resilience and collective efforts to rebuild.
Unlike traditional novels that rely heavily on dialogue and character interactions to tell the story, Shattered Earth leans more toward an overarching narration, almost like a documentary-style commentary on the catastrophic events. While this approach offers a broad and insightful perspective, I personally believe the book could have been even more engaging if it had focused more on character development and revealed the story through their experiences rather than describing events in a generalized way.
Fans of dystopian fiction will likely appreciate this book for its large-scale disaster narrative, its depiction of human resilience in the face of catastrophe, and its environmental themes, which serve as a wake-up call. In the end, the book reminds us that no matter how dire the circumstances, the bond of humanity is what holds us together.
At times, Shattered Earth feels like an anthology of several small stories, following individuals and survival groups as they navigate destruction, resource scarcity, and the struggle to rebuild a functioning society. Alongside these stories, the book maintains a consistent narrative thread following Evelyn and James, who embark on a research expedition with the goal of understanding the seismic phenomenon, predicting future disasters, and laying the groundwork for future generations. A significant portion of the book explores how both urban and rural populations cope with the challenges they face, demonstrating how mutual cooperation and collaboration lead to survival and renewal. What was once a familiar world quickly collapses into dystopia, and the author does a commendable job of portraying humanity’s resilience and collective efforts to rebuild.
Unlike traditional novels that rely heavily on dialogue and character interactions to tell the story, Shattered Earth leans more toward an overarching narration, almost like a documentary-style commentary on the catastrophic events. While this approach offers a broad and insightful perspective, I personally believe the book could have been even more engaging if it had focused more on character development and revealed the story through their experiences rather than describing events in a generalized way.
Fans of dystopian fiction will likely appreciate this book for its large-scale disaster narrative, its depiction of human resilience in the face of catastrophe, and its environmental themes, which serve as a wake-up call. In the end, the book reminds us that no matter how dire the circumstances, the bond of humanity is what holds us together.
dark
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
Doom Phage is a supernatural horror fiction with a classic trope and setting, where seven friends decide to sneak out of their summer camp and explore an abandoned prison—only to unknowingly release a nightmarish creature that starts hunting them down. What begins as a carefree summer camp adventure soon turns into a killing ground, forcing the characters into a desperate survival game of hide-and-seek—and running for their lives.
It's been a while since I wanted to read horror fiction just to experience a different premise, apart from my usual thrillers and non-fiction. Doom Phage turned out to be a bullseye hit with the way the author brilliantly executed the story. The first 60% of the book takes its time setting up the main characters—Maddy, Sasami, Eva, and Marianna—along with three boys who, I was sure, were included just to meet a dreadful end.
As I mentioned, there isn’t much horror until the latter half of the book. But once it starts, the mayhem takes over with full-fledged chaos that kept me on edge, and some atmospheric details even gave me chills. The author certainly knows how to use darkness and eerie details to heighten the horror, making this a gripping and fast-paced read.
There aren’t any extreme gory descriptions that might make readers uneasy, but the sense of survival, psychological tension between the characters, and the helplessness they feel while being chased by the creature—amid the piling bodies of their friends—deliver a frightening and entertaining reading experience. It’s a short book, with less than 150 pages, but that was a bit of a downside for me. I would have liked a more elaborate buildup, exploring the characters of Maddy, Sasami, and Marianna separately—where they come from, their families—and a more detailed origin of the supernatural creature.
In conclusion, I would certainly recommend this book for its immersive premise and suspenseful supernatural horror. If you’re looking for a quick and gripping horror fiction to get your adrenaline pumping, Doom Phage is definitely a book worth trying.
It's been a while since I wanted to read horror fiction just to experience a different premise, apart from my usual thrillers and non-fiction. Doom Phage turned out to be a bullseye hit with the way the author brilliantly executed the story. The first 60% of the book takes its time setting up the main characters—Maddy, Sasami, Eva, and Marianna—along with three boys who, I was sure, were included just to meet a dreadful end.
As I mentioned, there isn’t much horror until the latter half of the book. But once it starts, the mayhem takes over with full-fledged chaos that kept me on edge, and some atmospheric details even gave me chills. The author certainly knows how to use darkness and eerie details to heighten the horror, making this a gripping and fast-paced read.
There aren’t any extreme gory descriptions that might make readers uneasy, but the sense of survival, psychological tension between the characters, and the helplessness they feel while being chased by the creature—amid the piling bodies of their friends—deliver a frightening and entertaining reading experience. It’s a short book, with less than 150 pages, but that was a bit of a downside for me. I would have liked a more elaborate buildup, exploring the characters of Maddy, Sasami, and Marianna separately—where they come from, their families—and a more detailed origin of the supernatural creature.
In conclusion, I would certainly recommend this book for its immersive premise and suspenseful supernatural horror. If you’re looking for a quick and gripping horror fiction to get your adrenaline pumping, Doom Phage is definitely a book worth trying.
informative
reflective
fast-paced
Dealing with a narcissistic relationship can be emotionally draining and challenging, where the narcissist confuses a person and makes them doubt and question everything. This book stands out for how directly the author educates readers about the nature of narcissism, behavioral patterns, and its consequences for those on the receiving end of such relationships.
The author has done a commendable job of clarifying manipulation techniques such as gaslighting, triangulation, love bombing, and projection, which can severely impact a partner’s self-esteem, cause emotional injury, and, in extreme cases, lead to anxiety and depression. This book also explains what makes a person a narcissist and how to identify their behavior patterns. It is indeed written with compassion, as at certain points, I felt deeply for those suffering through such relationships.
I also liked how this book provides a safe space and empowers its readers by offering practical suggestions for making conscious decisions and taking action to break free from such relationships. Though this book is not a replacement for professional help, it strongly advocates therapy and seeking support from mental health professionals. Overall, this is a short yet insightful read that can help those looking to understand the dynamics of narcissistic relationships.
The author has done a commendable job of clarifying manipulation techniques such as gaslighting, triangulation, love bombing, and projection, which can severely impact a partner’s self-esteem, cause emotional injury, and, in extreme cases, lead to anxiety and depression. This book also explains what makes a person a narcissist and how to identify their behavior patterns. It is indeed written with compassion, as at certain points, I felt deeply for those suffering through such relationships.
I also liked how this book provides a safe space and empowers its readers by offering practical suggestions for making conscious decisions and taking action to break free from such relationships. Though this book is not a replacement for professional help, it strongly advocates therapy and seeking support from mental health professionals. Overall, this is a short yet insightful read that can help those looking to understand the dynamics of narcissistic relationships.