tualha's reviews
379 reviews

A Rogue by Any Other Name by Sarah MacLean
Did not finish book. Stopped at 88%.

The female protagonist was a little too proper for me, and the steamy scenes less steamy. Thinking I might like Pippa's story better.

The Future Second by Second by Meridel Newton

dark emotional hopeful fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Loveable characters? Yes

4.0

As billed, an inspiring novella that serves as a palate cleanser for those of us who have read too many "timely" dystopians lately. 

The Immortal King Rao by Vauhini Vara

challenging dark reflective 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

5.0

A dense intergenerational tech dystopia that is both lyrical and harrowing. Although not fast-paced, it's a compelling read that was difficult to put down. A timely and challenging novel for this, our post-pandemic hellscape.

Green on Green by Dianne White

inspiring relaxing slow-paced

5.0

A beautiful book about seasons, perfect for bedtimes or relaxing afternoons.

Poop by Poppy Champignon

funny fast-paced

5.0

Did I love this more than my toddler? Maybe. But I think she'll come around. 

Book of Night by Holly Black

dark mysterious slow-paced

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

3.5

For fans of The Ninth House, A Deadly Education, or Robin McKinley's Sunshine (and not necessarily fans of Black's YA titles). 

Holly Black's twisty adult debut follows Charlie Hall, a "reformed" thief and con artist. A slow burn for a mystery, it's got bad romantic decisions, tense family dynamics, and plenty of gory violence. Though it was a bit formulaic in terms of a mystery, folks who enjoy unique systems of magic and female anti-heroes will likely be at home. 

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Content Warnings

Graphic: Gore, Violence, and Murder

Moderate: Panic attacks/disorders, Child abuse, Gun violence, and Alcohol

Hooray for Hat! by Brian Won

A fabulous read-aloud for toddlers - especially fun if you can work on voices.

Improbable Magic for Cynical Witches by Kate Scelsa

emotional funny hopeful inspiring lighthearted fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.75

Be still my angsty queer teen heart. 

Battle of the Linguist Mages by Scotto Moore

adventurous challenging funny lighthearted medium-paced

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

4.5

Completely batshit in the best way. Reading the afterword, it makes sense that the protagonist is not as fully fleshed out and complicated as one might like a queer gamer girl fighting an epic battle in the multiverse with the aid of aliens to be. But it's still a wild and fantastic ride. 

Saturday at the Food Pantry by Diane O'Neill

5.0