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zaiphon's reviews
147 reviews
American Rapture by CJ Leede
dark
emotional
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.75
Officially finished out the year with one of my more recent Aardvark picks. I was skeptical at first, but I highly recommend going into this blind. I only read the book sleeve summary and wasn't sure what to expect. We follow our MC, Sophie, an extremely sheltered Catholic school girl. Her parents control the media she consumes and all she knows is the teachings of her parents, schoolteachers, and other members of the religious community. Because of this, she has no idea that a new deadly virus is spreading across the US.
This story plays out as a coming of age story that happens to unfold during a crazy, apocalyptic world. Sophie is just experiencing the secular world for the first time in the midst of all this chaos. During her journey, she meets other characters who trek across the Wisconsin in an attwempt survive. As we learn more about the characters, their stories open Sophie's eyes as she questions the existence of hell, sin, her moral upbringing, and the feelings of being a teenager. Other topics are discussed through the eyes of Sophie such as love (in all its forms) and grief. At first, I wasn't super invested and wasn't sure if I would enjoy. However, once it pickups, it sure does pickup, and I wanted to see how the story would end for all the characters we meet along the way. Wish that it didn't have to take over 100 pages to pull me in.
TRIGGER WARNING - this does contain a SPOILER but there is an animal death that is described by our MC.
While this was described as akin to "The Last of Us", it is so much more. I can certainly draw the parallels, but go in with an open mind expecting a slow start that will eventually draw you in and make you feel connected to the characters lives.
This story plays out as a coming of age story that happens to unfold during a crazy, apocalyptic world. Sophie is just experiencing the secular world for the first time in the midst of all this chaos. During her journey, she meets other characters who trek across the Wisconsin in an attwempt survive. As we learn more about the characters, their stories open Sophie's eyes as she questions the existence of hell, sin, her moral upbringing, and the feelings of being a teenager. Other topics are discussed through the eyes of Sophie such as love (in all its forms) and grief. At first, I wasn't super invested and wasn't sure if I would enjoy. However, once it pickups, it sure does pickup, and I wanted to see how the story would end for all the characters we meet along the way. Wish that it didn't have to take over 100 pages to pull me in.
TRIGGER WARNING - this does contain a SPOILER but there is an animal death that is described by our MC.
While this was described as akin to "The Last of Us", it is so much more. I can certainly draw the parallels, but go in with an open mind expecting a slow start that will eventually draw you in and make you feel connected to the characters lives.
The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger
emotional
inspiring
reflective
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
"Don't ever tell anybody anything. If you do, you start missing everybody".
I never got the chance to read this book back in school. As an adult, I thought I would give it a chance now and see what I think of if. I absolutely loved it and want to kick myself for not checking it out sooner. I am already considering a re-read as I want to absorb more of the details I may have missed or didn't look into much the first time around.
Our narrator, Holden Caulfield, is what can be considered an unreliable narrator. It is that which drives the story forward as this includes his personal biases and even paints the picture of his emotional state. A lot may be annoyed by Holden's negative view on pretty much everything, and especially his use of the word "phony". While this is off-putting to a lot who has read this novel, this depicts to the reader Holden's distorted view of the world that is based around his feelings of grief, self-alienation, and approaching adulthood. The further the story continues, the further frantic and broken down Holden becomes. What I really enjoyed is that, we as the reader, are forced to piece together the truths from Holden's observations and brief glimpses into his past. This to me added depth, allowing the reader to both see the world through Holden's eyes and ourselves as we are interpreting his words. I found myself rooting for Holden at the end, especially through some key emotional moments (the catcher in the rye poem, the carousel, the musuem). In reality, even us adults can feel like Holden. There are moments you can't let go of and wish you could go back, be young, and start over. But, there can be beauty in the future too. You just have to find yourself, and you will have a place in it.
I never got the chance to read this book back in school. As an adult, I thought I would give it a chance now and see what I think of if. I absolutely loved it and want to kick myself for not checking it out sooner. I am already considering a re-read as I want to absorb more of the details I may have missed or didn't look into much the first time around.
Our narrator, Holden Caulfield, is what can be considered an unreliable narrator. It is that which drives the story forward as this includes his personal biases and even paints the picture of his emotional state. A lot may be annoyed by Holden's negative view on pretty much everything, and especially his use of the word "phony". While this is off-putting to a lot who has read this novel, this depicts to the reader Holden's distorted view of the world that is based around his feelings of grief, self-alienation, and approaching adulthood. The further the story continues, the further frantic and broken down Holden becomes. What I really enjoyed is that, we as the reader, are forced to piece together the truths from Holden's observations and brief glimpses into his past. This to me added depth, allowing the reader to both see the world through Holden's eyes and ourselves as we are interpreting his words. I found myself rooting for Holden at the end, especially through some key emotional moments (the catcher in the rye poem, the carousel, the musuem). In reality, even us adults can feel like Holden. There are moments you can't let go of and wish you could go back, be young, and start over. But, there can be beauty in the future too. You just have to find yourself, and you will have a place in it.
The Uncensored Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde
challenging
dark
informative
reflective
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
5.0
"It is the spectator and not life that art really mirrors".
In my quest to read more classics, I decided to read this novel in its original form. I think that many a reviewer have put together in words better than I in the last century what this book may be trying to say. However, I wanted to put my in my thoughts as well.
To address the elephant in the room, the knowledge of Oscar Wilde's sexuality and lifestyle seems to overshadow other key points in the story. No, even with the uncensored version, this isn't some kind of intense smutty novel. Remember, this is in the late 1800s and what was absolutely scandalous and vile to say then is very tame now. With that being said, there are a lot of things in undertones and suggestive verbiage that insinuate romantic feelings and trysts between two men. The sad reality is that is the focus it seems throughout the years when it should have just been an addition to the story.
Anyways, I found the preface by Wilde quite interesting when comparing to how Dorian viewed life and art. As a reader, critic, artists, or appreciator of the arts - what do we define as beauty? What defines as great art or a great artist? And therefore, what can be defined as sin and exploiting the senses and experiences in life. Is life itself truly a form of art and meant to be lived as such? Is there a beauty in even the darkest or wickedest of times? Was Dorian truly wicked? Is blaming Lord Henry right, because could it be said that Lord Henry's fascination with youth is symbolic to being free and possessing beauty with an open mind? Wilde says "Diversity of opinion about a work of art shows that the work is new, complex, and vital." While Wilde may have been trying to get ahead of the critics, I think there is truth to those words. There is something to be said of a novel written over a hundred years ago and that the questions it poses can still resonate and still cause discussion today.
The characters each have some significance and role that centralizes around the themes. Dorian's obsession with staying young and using your time in life to engage in pleasantries, knowledge, and in his eyes expand his intellect. Lord Henry, who speaks his philosophies and his witty commentary on beauty and pleasure, may serve to most as more of a negative impact or a villian of sorts in this story. However, to me he seems the physical form of influence and influence was only transformed to the extremes because of Dorian himself (at times, Dorian questions if he always had these thoughts or temperment). And even the painting itself, portraying a physical emobiment of the life lived by Dorian, and how that is perceived and visualized. Bazil Hallward, the artist who discovered love and infatuation and that art felt like an extension to honor that.
To summarize; I went into this knowing a brief history of the story but left with so much more. As we are entering a new year, I begin to think of life and society, how we define morals, and even how we perceive the arts in all its forms. We live in a society that sets its norms that most will blindly abide by, but there is growth in challenging influence in your own way.
In my quest to read more classics, I decided to read this novel in its original form. I think that many a reviewer have put together in words better than I in the last century what this book may be trying to say. However, I wanted to put my in my thoughts as well.
To address the elephant in the room, the knowledge of Oscar Wilde's sexuality and lifestyle seems to overshadow other key points in the story. No, even with the uncensored version, this isn't some kind of intense smutty novel. Remember, this is in the late 1800s and what was absolutely scandalous and vile to say then is very tame now. With that being said, there are a lot of things in undertones and suggestive verbiage that insinuate romantic feelings and trysts between two men. The sad reality is that is the focus it seems throughout the years when it should have just been an addition to the story.
Anyways, I found the preface by Wilde quite interesting when comparing to how Dorian viewed life and art. As a reader, critic, artists, or appreciator of the arts - what do we define as beauty? What defines as great art or a great artist? And therefore, what can be defined as sin and exploiting the senses and experiences in life. Is life itself truly a form of art and meant to be lived as such? Is there a beauty in even the darkest or wickedest of times? Was Dorian truly wicked? Is blaming Lord Henry right, because could it be said that Lord Henry's fascination with youth is symbolic to being free and possessing beauty with an open mind? Wilde says "Diversity of opinion about a work of art shows that the work is new, complex, and vital." While Wilde may have been trying to get ahead of the critics, I think there is truth to those words. There is something to be said of a novel written over a hundred years ago and that the questions it poses can still resonate and still cause discussion today.
The characters each have some significance and role that centralizes around the themes. Dorian's obsession with staying young and using your time in life to engage in pleasantries, knowledge, and in his eyes expand his intellect. Lord Henry, who speaks his philosophies and his witty commentary on beauty and pleasure, may serve to most as more of a negative impact or a villian of sorts in this story. However, to me he seems the physical form of influence and influence was only transformed to the extremes because of Dorian himself (at times, Dorian questions if he always had these thoughts or temperment). And even the painting itself, portraying a physical emobiment of the life lived by Dorian, and how that is perceived and visualized. Bazil Hallward, the artist who discovered love and infatuation and that art felt like an extension to honor that.
To summarize; I went into this knowing a brief history of the story but left with so much more. As we are entering a new year, I begin to think of life and society, how we define morals, and even how we perceive the arts in all its forms. We live in a society that sets its norms that most will blindly abide by, but there is growth in challenging influence in your own way.
Somewhere Beyond the Sea by TJ Klune
funny
hopeful
reflective
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? N/A
4.0
If you were to ask me whether this sequel was truly necessary, a discussion I see floating around regarding this book, I’d say the answer is subjective. With that being said, it changed my perception on this series as a whole. I'm sold - and wouldn't be disappointed to get more of these characters! I found that it enriched "The House in the Cerulean Sea" for me, making me appreciate the original novel even more. This sequel delves deeper into the central theme of the first book—bigotry and bias toward magical beings and creatures versus ordinary humans—but expands on it with more insight into Arthur and his past. We dive further into this through different perspectives by the characters, and I felt I had a good understanding of the layers of each characters. We see through the eyes of the children - a younger generation who are full of hope and have plenty of fight in them and optimistic for the future. In contrast, through Arthur we see a character ravaged by effects of hate through the years and though still driven by the same ideals, seem to have become disillusioned, carrying a sense of frustration and anger. It was fascinating to see these contrasting viewpoints come together, and the addition of Kline's quirky, whimsical, and often hilarious characters made the experience even more enjoyable. This book did a fantastic job and creating realistic characters while also making me laugh out loud at something insanely hilarious a character said (looking at you Lucy and Talia, but what do you expect with a 7 year old antichrist 😂)
So, while the sequel may not have been essential to some, it certainly added something meaningful for me, and I have no regrets. Now, I’m eager to revisit the first book in the series!
P.S. (Slight SPOILERS ahead):
I’m a sucker for a well-done epilogue, and this one did not disappoint. The wedding scene, Linus and Arthur’s vows, and the children basking in the warmth of a loving family left me with my heart full. It was the perfect, uplifting way to close the story. There's nothing like ending on a high note!
So, while the sequel may not have been essential to some, it certainly added something meaningful for me, and I have no regrets. Now, I’m eager to revisit the first book in the series!
P.S. (Slight SPOILERS ahead):
I’m a sucker for a well-done epilogue, and this one did not disappoint. The wedding scene, Linus and Arthur’s vows, and the children basking in the warmth of a loving family left me with my heart full. It was the perfect, uplifting way to close the story. There's nothing like ending on a high note!
How to Age Disgracefully by Clare Pooley
adventurous
funny
inspiring
reflective
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
I love that this will be one of the last books I get to enjoy for this reading year! This book was a delightful rollercoaster—fun, emotional, chaotic, and absolutely captivating from start to finish.
The story kicks off with Daphne, a 70-year-old woman who has decided it's time to embrace life and live it to the fullest, regardless of age. From there, we meet a vibrant cast of characters who defy the usual stereotypes of what it means to be on the later years of life. As the plot unfolds, we're invited into the lives of these individuals—each with their own quirks, flaws, and dreams. Their journeys challenge the typical narrative around aging, showing us that adventure, self-discovery, and even love are ageless.
What I enjoyed most was the authenticity of the characters; they're not just "old people", they're fully realized individuals still roaming through their own personal journeys. I laughed, I loved, and I felt deeply connected to their experiences. The book is a beautiful reminder that life doesn’t stop at any age, and there’s always room for growth, change, and new beginnings.
This is a great pick for anyone looking for a heartwarming, lighthearted story full of humor, mischief, and moments that tug at your heartstrings. It's a wonderful celebration of life, love, and the unexpected adventures that can unfold at any age.
The story kicks off with Daphne, a 70-year-old woman who has decided it's time to embrace life and live it to the fullest, regardless of age. From there, we meet a vibrant cast of characters who defy the usual stereotypes of what it means to be on the later years of life. As the plot unfolds, we're invited into the lives of these individuals—each with their own quirks, flaws, and dreams. Their journeys challenge the typical narrative around aging, showing us that adventure, self-discovery, and even love are ageless.
What I enjoyed most was the authenticity of the characters; they're not just "old people", they're fully realized individuals still roaming through their own personal journeys. I laughed, I loved, and I felt deeply connected to their experiences. The book is a beautiful reminder that life doesn’t stop at any age, and there’s always room for growth, change, and new beginnings.
This is a great pick for anyone looking for a heartwarming, lighthearted story full of humor, mischief, and moments that tug at your heartstrings. It's a wonderful celebration of life, love, and the unexpected adventures that can unfold at any age.
A Demon's Guide to Wooing a Witch by Sarah Hawley
adventurous
emotional
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
2.0
Shorter review this time around..
I picked this up on a whim and realized this was an interconnected standalone. I struggled to get through this one, even though I wanted to like it. Things felt repetetive and slow and I didn't connect much with the characters. We were introduced to different characters through our MC's journey. But then, things rushed through and then the last 40ish pages was more of an info dump and fast resolution. While I didn't feel lost for not reading the 1st in this series, there were constant reminders and "recaps that felt a little too much. It didn't seem to add that much to these MC's story and annoyed me at times ( I had to read one too many times of Calladia fighting with Azaroth for her best friend). I don't feel the desire to read anymore as of now from the "Glimmer Falls" universe.
I picked this up on a whim and realized this was an interconnected standalone. I struggled to get through this one, even though I wanted to like it. Things felt repetetive and slow and I didn't connect much with the characters. We were introduced to different characters through our MC's journey. But then, things rushed through and then the last 40ish pages was more of an info dump and fast resolution. While I didn't feel lost for not reading the 1st in this series, there were constant reminders and "recaps that felt a little too much. It didn't seem to add that much to these MC's story and annoyed me at times ( I had to read one too many times of Calladia fighting with Azaroth for her best friend). I don't feel the desire to read anymore as of now from the "Glimmer Falls" universe.
Christmas Cupid by Cassie Lein
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
2.0
On a work trip and had some time to kill, so I decided to find a quick read. I have a lot of options from all the stuff your kindle days and landed on "Christmas Cupid". The Christmas vibes felt fitting.
Overall this was 80% smut, but it was repetitive. There was a lot of overuse on specific ways to set the scene and so after the first half, it just kind of felt like a fan fiction. There were some cute moments, but everything moved so fast. Since this was a short story, it probably would have been better to focus on one area to make this seem more immersive. I just didn't feel like I connected with any of the characters. The writing also dragged at times and it almost read as someones account of the situation over drinks.
If you want something that has no stakes, not much backstory, and is solely focused on spicy scenes - you may enjoy this for what it is.
Overall this was 80% smut, but it was repetitive. There was a lot of overuse on specific ways to set the scene and so after the first half, it just kind of felt like a fan fiction. There were some cute moments, but everything moved so fast. Since this was a short story, it probably would have been better to focus on one area to make this seem more immersive. I just didn't feel like I connected with any of the characters. The writing also dragged at times and it almost read as someones account of the situation over drinks.
If you want something that has no stakes, not much backstory, and is solely focused on spicy scenes - you may enjoy this for what it is.
Skyshade by Alex Aster
adventurous
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.75
Light "spoilery" things ahead.
Many mixed reviews, but I found myself enjoying "Skyshade" for what it was.
- The basis has always been the love triangle. I am not surprised it continues to be at the forefront, but I do wish there would have been more growth from Isla at this point.
- While it was determined to originally be a trilogy, I am glad it wasn't. The way the story developed throughout this one only proved there is so much more to clear up and give more foundation to before a finale. This is a pattern I noticed with the others in this series and so I wasn't as upset by the multiple twists and info dumping at the end. I almost expect it. However, there needs to be more strength in the world building
- One strong point for me through Aster's writing is that all characters (no matter how small) felt that they mattered and I found them as interesting as the MC's. Through this, it helps the reader shape the world and mold to fit the character's backstory and traits. With that being said, the next installment should focus on world building as a strength alongside the established characters.
- Lot of content for the Grim lovers, but Oro was not necessarily left out. The ending set us up to still feel conflicted about who she will choose. Isla has herself torn into two parts and I wish there could have been some more exploring of why that is. I think delving further into Oro and Grim will flesh out the characters more to create higher stakes and understanding of the choices Isla and others make. Otherwise, it at times just feels either quickly resolved or that the development of said character(s) is stalled.
Lot of thoughts with this, but for what the story and writing has been from the beginning, I don't feel Skyshade necessarily deserves the hate. My fingers are crossed that the next direct follow up in the series is its redemption and Aster's strengths can stand out to take the series to the next level it desperately needs.
Many mixed reviews, but I found myself enjoying "Skyshade" for what it was.
- The basis has always been the love triangle. I am not surprised it continues to be at the forefront, but I do wish there would have been more growth from Isla at this point.
- While it was determined to originally be a trilogy, I am glad it wasn't. The way the story developed throughout this one only proved there is so much more to clear up and give more foundation to before a finale. This is a pattern I noticed with the others in this series and so I wasn't as upset by the multiple twists and info dumping at the end. I almost expect it. However, there needs to be more strength in the world building
- One strong point for me through Aster's writing is that all characters (no matter how small) felt that they mattered and I found them as interesting as the MC's. Through this, it helps the reader shape the world and mold to fit the character's backstory and traits. With that being said, the next installment should focus on world building as a strength alongside the established characters.
- Lot of content for the Grim lovers, but Oro was not necessarily left out. The ending set us up to still feel conflicted about who she will choose. Isla has herself torn into two parts and I wish there could have been some more exploring of why that is. I think delving further into Oro and Grim will flesh out the characters more to create higher stakes and understanding of the choices Isla and others make. Otherwise, it at times just feels either quickly resolved or that the development of said character(s) is stalled.
Lot of thoughts with this, but for what the story and writing has been from the beginning, I don't feel Skyshade necessarily deserves the hate. My fingers are crossed that the next direct follow up in the series is its redemption and Aster's strengths can stand out to take the series to the next level it desperately needs.
Nightbane by Alex Aster
adventurous
dark
emotional
fast-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? It's complicated
4.0
I am glad I continued the series because "Nightbane" had my full attention at the turn of every page. I felt Aster solidifies the world further and sets up the scene to continue to expand the Lightlark universe. I really enjoyed this one so much more than "Lightlark" and felt the writing became much stronger.
We pick up right where "Lightlark" left off and immediately was put right into the "what comes next" post curse breakup. As the story builds, the narrative shifts to a back and forth "past/present" as Isla discovers her history through recovering memories. There are a lot of moving parts within the plot and mysteries to unfold. The twists get twisting right until the very last page. What a cliffhanger this leaves us on! If you are unsure about the series, I say give it a try if you are looking for a fast paced, twisty, love triangle. Also enjoy the fact that most side characters continued to be just as interesting as the MC's and serve a place throughout the story. I'm glad I don't have to wait and can jump right into Skyshade.
We pick up right where "Lightlark" left off and immediately was put right into the "what comes next" post curse breakup. As the story builds, the narrative shifts to a back and forth "past/present" as Isla discovers her history through recovering memories. There are a lot of moving parts within the plot and mysteries to unfold. The twists get twisting right until the very last page. What a cliffhanger this leaves us on! If you are unsure about the series, I say give it a try if you are looking for a fast paced, twisty, love triangle. Also enjoy the fact that most side characters continued to be just as interesting as the MC's and serve a place throughout the story. I'm glad I don't have to wait and can jump right into Skyshade.
The Nightmare Before Kissmas by Sara Raasch
emotional
funny
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Easily 5 star read for me. I wanted to sprinkle in a light hearted, sweet read just in time for the approaching holidays. And what better way to do so than buy reading a book about two holiday princes who fall in love and come into their own. Definitely was reminiscent of "Red, White, & Royal Blue" but we were swept up in the lands of the holidays, a little bit of magic, and a lot of laughs. Loved the writing so much that I am looking forward to Book 2 and to check out other works by the author.
This was funny, romantic, sexy, charming, and also contained elements of accepting who you are and finding the confidence and acceptance of love and praise. I could easily re-read this again and plan on doing so. For those wondering: There is spice; open door with some description. There are also concepts of lingering grief and the desire for internal growth. I thought the way these moments were delivered were at perfect timing and added to the story. It delivered on all things I was expecting and if you are looking for something that sounds like how I described, you should definitely give it a try.
This was funny, romantic, sexy, charming, and also contained elements of accepting who you are and finding the confidence and acceptance of love and praise. I could easily re-read this again and plan on doing so. For those wondering: There is spice; open door with some description. There are also concepts of lingering grief and the desire for internal growth. I thought the way these moments were delivered were at perfect timing and added to the story. It delivered on all things I was expecting and if you are looking for something that sounds like how I described, you should definitely give it a try.