You need to sign in or sign up before continuing.
Take a photo of a barcode or cover
tinyelfarcanist's Reviews (326)
adventurous
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
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:
No
An outstanding start for The Year of Sanderson.
Tress is one of the most sensible heroines you'll find in YA. She seeks help, talks openly with her parents, and admits when she's scared. She also goes on a suicidal mission for the man she loves, but that's love for you.
This book features beautiful relationships (romantic or otherwise), tons of adventure, and FEELINGS. Even deaths that should have been insubstantial pack a punch. Also, as expected from Sanderson's fantasy novels, a fascinating and innovative magic system. You may need to have read other of his books (The Way of Kings, Elantris) to appreciate it fully.
I LOVED the fairytale vibes. It's no coincidence that it was inspired by one of my favourite books of all time: The Princess Bride. This book has some of the most beautiful prose I've ever read. It's funny, it's witty, and full of insightful lessons. I kept highlighting passage after passage. I hope Sanderson keeps exploring this narrator.
Tress is one of the most sensible heroines you'll find in YA. She seeks help, talks openly with her parents, and admits when she's scared. She also goes on a suicidal mission for the man she loves, but that's love for you.
This book features beautiful relationships (romantic or otherwise), tons of adventure, and FEELINGS. Even deaths that should have been insubstantial pack a punch. Also, as expected from Sanderson's fantasy novels, a fascinating and innovative magic system. You may need to have read other of his books (The Way of Kings, Elantris) to appreciate it fully.
I LOVED the fairytale vibes. It's no coincidence that it was inspired by one of my favourite books of all time: The Princess Bride. This book has some of the most beautiful prose I've ever read. It's funny, it's witty, and full of insightful lessons. I kept highlighting passage after passage. I hope Sanderson keeps exploring this narrator.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Gun violence, Physical abuse, Murder
Moderate: Ableism, Body horror, Chronic illness, Death, Gore, Violence, Blood, Grief, Gaslighting, Classism
Minor: Bullying, Slavery, Terminal illness, Torture, Vomit, Medical content, Alcohol
adventurous
emotional
funny
lighthearted
mysterious
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
This one caught my attention in the first scene. Coming from someone who usually doesn't like urban fantasy, I didn't expect to enjoy it this much.
The world feels alive and like every character has a story to tell. This time, it's Grim's, an aromatic vampire with trouble opening up for friendship.
All that, and Grim had only managed to cry, ask for sugar in their coffee and take a shower.
(yeah, relatable)
It’s a short read but full of wit, lovely characters, and pure wholesomeness. I'm keeping an eye on this author's future works.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Cursing, Death, Mental illness, Blood, Injury/Injury detail
Minor: Addiction, Body horror, Cancer, Child death, Panic attacks/disorders, Kidnapping, Car accident, Death of parent, Murder
emotional
lighthearted
mysterious
medium-paced
I'm certainly not the target for this book, but that didn't detract me from enjoying the beautiful passages.
The river is an open cut in the landscape. Like a wound that keeps flowing open, never able to heal. It feeds the trees, the brambles. In turn, they give way to wildlife.
The book is heavy on birdwatching references. That's an interest I’ve never understood since it’s not a thing where I’m from. I believe people who have practiced the activity will find it nostalgic.
It also paints the curse and blessing that is living in a small town. Never enough privacy, but your neighbours are familiar enough to rely on. I’ve always lived in a city. I guess I'm too much of a "city boy" (like Jethro) to appreciate everything this book has to offer.
The Fable of Wren highlights the importance of history and record keeping. It is a love letter to those who lived before us, especially those who left a mark on our lives.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Panic attacks/disorders, Grief, Death of parent
Moderate: Body horror, Death, Blood, Medical content, Injury/Injury detail
Minor: Bullying, Cancer, Gun violence, Racism, Transphobia, Xenophobia, Medical trauma, Murder
adventurous
mysterious
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
No
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
This is part of a series of historical romances set in an Arthurian setting. They share some notable characters while following different storylines with minor ones. I'm glad I had forgotten what this book was about when I started it so I could be surprised by the reveals.
Many characters are named on the first pages and it was hard to keep track of them. There's so much lore packed in this short book, foretelling an epic series.
I only found our protagonist and a secondary character likeable. The love interest is justified in his toxicity because he lost everyone he loved. He is sexist, violent, and impulsive. Their relationship develops too fast, and for an enemies-to-lovers arc, I found it lacking.
One character promises another to teach them how to write so they can send an urgent letter. I would’ve loved to see how that went.
I loved the writing style and it’s clear there was effort put into the world-building. The issue is the focus was somewhere else. I would've liked for it to be a little longer so every element had the deserved attention.
Many characters are named on the first pages and it was hard to keep track of them. There's so much lore packed in this short book, foretelling an epic series.
I only found our protagonist and a secondary character likeable. The love interest is justified in his toxicity because he lost everyone he loved. He is sexist, violent, and impulsive. Their relationship develops too fast, and for an enemies-to-lovers arc, I found it lacking.
One character promises another to teach them how to write so they can send an urgent letter. I would’ve loved to see how that went.
I loved the writing style and it’s clear there was effort put into the world-building. The issue is the focus was somewhere else. I would've liked for it to be a little longer so every element had the deserved attention.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Domestic abuse, Physical abuse, Racism, Sexism, Sexual content, Torture, Violence, Xenophobia, Blood
Moderate: Alcoholism, Death, Misogyny, Grief, Pregnancy, Fire/Fire injury, Alcohol
Minor: Slavery, War, Injury/Injury detail
challenging
emotional
reflective
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
No
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
This is the story of the Esco dynasty, born from one man's sacrifice. And about a man that married into it and built a family.
It's a tale of grief, and how the outside world continues even when one's own universe crumbles down.
It's told in three different POVs: A young man (Arlen) who's presented with a red pill/blue pill decision; the coming of age of a girl (Cassandra) that lived lifetimes in her young years; and a dying girl (Ianthe) who's leaving this world and taking Cassandra's with it.
I found the prose in Ianthe’s chapters a little flowery for my taste, but they are short and sparse. If you like purple prose, you’ll love them, though.
I also had trouble with some of Cassandra's chapters, especially from when she was younger. Her dialogue felt stilted and unlike how a 5yo speaks.
Arlen's chapters were definitely my favourites and the ones that drive the story forward as they take place closer to present events. In a short period, he will discover a lot about his life and experience powerful emotions for the first time.
The author created a fascinating world where the magic resource (shine) encompasses every field as it can heal, heat, conserve, and be a powerful drug. The beautiful description of the scenery made me crave an adaptation.
I was warned of Chorn's books, and this still managed to ambush me. If you're planning to read one of her books, be ready to get your heart ripped out.
It's a tale of grief, and how the outside world continues even when one's own universe crumbles down.
It's told in three different POVs: A young man (Arlen) who's presented with a red pill/blue pill decision; the coming of age of a girl (Cassandra) that lived lifetimes in her young years; and a dying girl (Ianthe) who's leaving this world and taking Cassandra's with it.
I found the prose in Ianthe’s chapters a little flowery for my taste, but they are short and sparse. If you like purple prose, you’ll love them, though.
I also had trouble with some of Cassandra's chapters, especially from when she was younger. Her dialogue felt stilted and unlike how a 5yo speaks.
Arlen's chapters were definitely my favourites and the ones that drive the story forward as they take place closer to present events. In a short period, he will discover a lot about his life and experience powerful emotions for the first time.
The author created a fascinating world where the magic resource (shine) encompasses every field as it can heal, heat, conserve, and be a powerful drug. The beautiful description of the scenery made me crave an adaptation.
I was warned of Chorn's books, and this still managed to ambush me. If you're planning to read one of her books, be ready to get your heart ripped out.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Addiction, Bullying, Child abuse, Chronic illness, Death, Drug abuse, Drug use, Racism, Self harm, Suicide, Terminal illness, Blood, Grief
Moderate: Child death, Deadnaming, Gun violence, Pedophilia, Sexual assault, Transphobia, Vomit, Police brutality, Kidnapping, Death of parent, Abandonment, Classism
Minor: Violence, Pregnancy, Outing, Injury/Injury detail
challenging
dark
emotional
sad
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
“Angel of beauty.” That’s what Lucifer has been called from the moment of his creation. Ashamed of his appearance, he wants nothing more than to spend his days worshipping God. That is until archangel Michael grabs his attention. A lyrical retelling of Lucifer's fall.
This is one of the darkest books I've read and I suggest you look at the content warnings before diving into this one. The following is a list of the topics included in my review, just a meagre example of those contained in this novel.
CW: swearing, blasphemy, and mention of wicked acts.
This is one of the darkest books I've read and I suggest you look at the content warnings before diving into this one. The following is a list of the topics included in my review, just a meagre example of those contained in this novel.
CW: swearing, blasphemy, and mention of wicked acts.
"He is beautiful," the seraph said as the cherub cried out from a scathingly sore throat. "The most magnificent of all your angels, Father."
I loved the prose reflecting Lucifer’s mental state. Lucifer is an interesting character if unappealing at times.
This book is split into two distinct sections. I divided my review as such. Don't be fooled by the sweetness of the first part, this book doesn't shy away from picturing the depravity that a tortured individual is driven to.
Part 1:
So. Fucking. Cute. A naive and recently created Lucifer shares sweet banter with other playful angels in Heaven...
What else could an angel be but happy?
On the surface, this is a story about a beloved bard finding his purpose, a story about a narcissistic pimp and his favourite twink. A story about angels in love.
Why would God make him so beautiful if that beauty wasn’t meant to be admired?
Paradise is not what it seems.
Part 2:
Looking deeper, this is a commentary on jealousy, identity, and religious trauma.
The Lord said, "Sing, angel," His voice all-encompassing, "and you will be saved." Lucifer did so, fearing his God.
For a restless angel like Lucifer, mindless worshipping and hedonism won’t do.
Angels Before Man is powerful in its painfully accurate depictions of depression, wrath, passion, and pride. It is a blasphemous display of the unforgiving Father and the angel who was punished for questioning.
God may have created his equal. He made a perfect angel, and He will soon discover that power corrupts. Lucifer grows more spiteful every time he’s reprimanded.
Let’s not forget that for all of Lucifer’s deviousness, he is God’s creation.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Animal cruelty, Animal death, Body horror, Body shaming, Cursing, Death, Domestic abuse, Emotional abuse, Gore, Physical abuse, Self harm, Sexual content, Suicidal thoughts, Torture, Violence, Blood, Religious bigotry, Suicide attempt, Murder, Gaslighting, Alcohol
Moderate: Homophobia, Panic attacks/disorders, Rape, Sexual assault, Sexual violence, Fire/Fire injury
adventurous
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Haskell starts the adventure with a pouch full of coins he stole from his father. It was a lot of money since it was his (successful merchant) family's savings. It was frustrating watching our protagonist throw money away. After seeing it rapidly dwindling he appears to have learned, but then he goes and bets it all. I'm all for arrogant bastards, but this one needed a wake-up slap.
While this book is about Haskell, he is overshadowed by Froba, a much more interesting character with multiple POV chapters. It was the first time I had an issue with too much head-hopping, between these two and other POVs.
On this matter, I believe there are too many characters and they kinda blend together. Not all contribute to the story, making them forgettable. For the most part, I thought of Haskell's team as "a party of idiots, two kids, and Zinzi".
The set-up promised a grimdark story, with grasping lines like this one:
While this book is about Haskell, he is overshadowed by Froba, a much more interesting character with multiple POV chapters. It was the first time I had an issue with too much head-hopping, between these two and other POVs.
On this matter, I believe there are too many characters and they kinda blend together. Not all contribute to the story, making them forgettable. For the most part, I thought of Haskell's team as "a party of idiots, two kids, and Zinzi".
The set-up promised a grimdark story, with grasping lines like this one:
"I may be destined for the Nine Hells, but this world is a hell you all richly deserve."
While it is grim indeed, it felt a little out of place with a low-stakes plot.
It also had some pacing trouble. Problems solve way too fast to have a dramatic weight or make you worry about the fate of the characters. The tension was almost non-existent and deaths feel inconsequential.
For me, this first book in an unnamed series fell short. It was slow-paced and still felt rushed on some matters. I'm disappointed with all these issues because this story had SO MUCH POTENTIAL. I liked the writing style and the clear D&D elements. Characters were introduced that will have a stronger presence in future installments as some reveals near the end indicate.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Addiction, Animal cruelty, Bullying, Child abuse, Drug abuse, Drug use, Racism, Alcohol
Moderate: Ableism, Child death, Fatphobia, Gore, Misogyny, Pedophilia, Racial slurs, Sexism, Sexual assault, Sexual content
Minor: Rape, Slavery, Torture, Death of parent, Murder, Colonisation
funny
informative
lighthearted
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
N/A
Strong character development:
N/A
Loveable characters:
N/A
Diverse cast of characters:
N/A
Flaws of characters a main focus:
N/A
Let’s start by saying I’m utterly ignorant of Jewish culture. So, after briefly researching what a latke or Ma‘oz Tzur is, I could learn more about Hanukkah traditions.
Thanks to this book, I know socks are the traditional Hanukkah gift, but do you know what would also make a perfect gift (especially for the little ones)? This book.
This is a short picture book full of funny and expressive werewolf illustrations by J. Burrello. People familiar with the customs will be able to enjoy all the references. I liked the charm and had fun learning more about Hanukkah. Awoo!
PSA: Don’t feed chocolate to your werewolves.
Thanks to this book, I know socks are the traditional Hanukkah gift, but do you know what would also make a perfect gift (especially for the little ones)? This book.
This is a short picture book full of funny and expressive werewolf illustrations by J. Burrello. People familiar with the customs will be able to enjoy all the references. I liked the charm and had fun learning more about Hanukkah. Awoo!
PSA: Don’t feed chocolate to your werewolves.
adventurous
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
No
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
I was a pet, didn’t like it, and wanted to escape. But, they have no word for “pet”. The cats don’t keep pets.
The author spent a lot of time on worldbuilding. Creating a world full of folklore. There's even extra content on the legends of Trueterra you can get by subscribing to the author's newsletter.
I'm conflicted about this book. The story has the feel of a classic fantasy tale. Some elements I really enjoyed, but mostly I think this one didn't work for me. There were too many pieces that in the end didn't resolve.
The main conflict is the drought that's been killing the land and how it's been affecting the crops. A supernatural beast must be destroyed to make the river flow again. This happens in a vague and rushed way in the final 10% of the book.
There's also an ongoing battle with the black squirrels (I don't want to read too much into that), that have been raiding their harvests. Some animals are humanoid, like cats and squirrels, but some are not (birds, fish, bunnies). They hate the squirrels for stealing their food, but the bunnies do the same and they get sympathy:
"Poor things. They must be hungry to come rooting through the remnants of our garden and get this close to the compound."
"My empathy is with them. They are desperate. We are all willing to do desperate things."
There is a feud between the village cats and the True Cats, cats that live in a more traditional way as scavengers. Those Outsider cats feel superior and more true to their nature. We also have a love interest whose path differs from our MC's and their ending hints at some future installments in the series.
Sunny has a brother, who’s also a pet, and he’s hesitant about Sunny’s mission and tries to convince him to come back home. Only the drought is dealt with and in a very anticlimactic way.
The book also glorifies violence and battle more than I would like. I don't mind gore or grim; it isn't even graphic here. Honour just seems to be on how good of a warrior our protagonist is.
My biggest pet peeve from this book was the established gender roles. Female cats tend to the toms after they train. They do the house chores and mostly spend their time giggling and gossiping. Oh, and they are called shes throughout the book and it made me grind my teeth every time.
This is a perfect book for cat lovers who enjoy a classic story. If they don't mind more than a tad of sexism.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Animal death, Sexism, Violence, Injury/Injury detail
Moderate: Death, War
Minor: Blood, Medical content, Alcohol
challenging
dark
emotional
reflective
sad
fast-paced
Zoo is a surreal exploration of mental health with exhibitions filled with nagging creatures. Their interactions with each other are commonly problematic.
This short work is an intimate and introspective read. Even more intense than the usual process of writing, I suspect taking a survey through his own mind was therapeutic for the author.
It’s very different from what I usually read, but I would say my only complaint is that it may get a bit repetitive. I should warn you must be in the right mindset for it.
All of us have dealt with our fair share of these beasts. This novelette is a reminder that every head is a zoo and to be kinder to each other. Oh, and don’t forget to take care of yours first.
This short work is an intimate and introspective read. Even more intense than the usual process of writing, I suspect taking a survey through his own mind was therapeutic for the author.
It’s very different from what I usually read, but I would say my only complaint is that it may get a bit repetitive. I should warn you must be in the right mindset for it.
All of us have dealt with our fair share of these beasts. This novelette is a reminder that every head is a zoo and to be kinder to each other. Oh, and don’t forget to take care of yours first.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Mental illness, Grief, Death of parent
Minor: Addiction, Alcoholism, Body shaming, Alcohol