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zaiphon's reviews
148 reviews
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.
Night Swimming by Aaron Starmer
emotional
inspiring
reflective
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? It's complicated
4.0
Thanks to Net Galley for this e-copy!
Night Swimming promised me a dose of '90s nostalgia and a soundtrack of the era's iconic music, and while the story certainly delivers nostalgic touches, it’s so much more than that. This novel is a reflection on youth, friendship, love, and the complexities of growing up — all set against the backdrop of a seemingly endless summer.
Told from the perspective of our MMC Trevor, we follow him and his group of recently graduated friends during their final summer before life pulls them in different directions. At the story's heart is Trevor’s unspoken affection for his friend Sarah and his internal struggle over what their (and his) future might look like. The duo makes a pact to swim in every pool in their hometown of Sutton before summer’s end, a lighthearted quest that becomes more profound as the story unfolds.
But when the rest of the gang discover this pact, one split decision leads them to discover the existence of a hidden natural spring pool. It is at this point, their journey takes an unexpected turn. What begins as a playful adventure soon transforms into a poignant exploration of the fears, desires, and emotions that shape their lives. It’s a story about the delicate balance between holding on to the past and stepping into an unknown future.
At its core, Night Swimming isn’t just about the joy of friendship or the thrill of first love. It’s about the universal longing to freeze time — to experience a moment forever without the pressure of what comes next. The novel explores what it would be like to have an endless night, free from the constraints of time and responsibility, where every choice can be made without regret.
This is not your typical "YA romance" or coming-of-age story. While romance plays a role, the themes of fear, change, and self-discovery are what truly drive the narrative. It’s a book that invites you to reflect on your own experiences with youth, love, and the inevitable passage of time.
I highly recommend going into Night Swimming blind as it is a journey best experienced with an open mind, and you may find yourself taking away more from this story than you anticipated.
Night Swimming promised me a dose of '90s nostalgia and a soundtrack of the era's iconic music, and while the story certainly delivers nostalgic touches, it’s so much more than that. This novel is a reflection on youth, friendship, love, and the complexities of growing up — all set against the backdrop of a seemingly endless summer.
Told from the perspective of our MMC Trevor, we follow him and his group of recently graduated friends during their final summer before life pulls them in different directions. At the story's heart is Trevor’s unspoken affection for his friend Sarah and his internal struggle over what their (and his) future might look like. The duo makes a pact to swim in every pool in their hometown of Sutton before summer’s end, a lighthearted quest that becomes more profound as the story unfolds.
But when the rest of the gang discover this pact, one split decision leads them to discover the existence of a hidden natural spring pool. It is at this point, their journey takes an unexpected turn. What begins as a playful adventure soon transforms into a poignant exploration of the fears, desires, and emotions that shape their lives. It’s a story about the delicate balance between holding on to the past and stepping into an unknown future.
At its core, Night Swimming isn’t just about the joy of friendship or the thrill of first love. It’s about the universal longing to freeze time — to experience a moment forever without the pressure of what comes next. The novel explores what it would be like to have an endless night, free from the constraints of time and responsibility, where every choice can be made without regret.
This is not your typical "YA romance" or coming-of-age story. While romance plays a role, the themes of fear, change, and self-discovery are what truly drive the narrative. It’s a book that invites you to reflect on your own experiences with youth, love, and the inevitable passage of time.
I highly recommend going into Night Swimming blind as it is a journey best experienced with an open mind, and you may find yourself taking away more from this story than you anticipated.
Lightlark by Alex Aster
adventurous
dark
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
After finally picking up Lightlark to see what all the hype was about, I can say the book certainly has potential. It sets up a captivating premise with its deadly trials and game-like atmosphere, but as the story unfolds, it gradually shifts its focus toward the mystery, plot twists, and romance elements. While these aspects were intriguing, I couldn’t help but feel the original concept of high-stakes competition was somewhat sidelined.
One of the more frustrating aspects for me was the somewhat overuse use of familiar FMC tropes. These moments felt at times that it dulled the story's intensity. However, where Lightlark truly shines is in its supporting characters. I found myself far more invested in the side characters and the intricacies of their realms than in the protagonist's journey. I hope we see more development for these characters. (Especially Azul—justice for Azul!)
Despite these things, I didn’t have a terrible time reading. There were moments where I wished the story had more depth or a sharper focus, but the steady momentum kept me turning pages. I’m definitely intrigued enough to continue with the series. The world-building and character dynamics show promise, and I’m curious to see where the story goes from here.
One of the more frustrating aspects for me was the somewhat overuse use of familiar FMC tropes. These moments felt at times that it dulled the story's intensity. However, where Lightlark truly shines is in its supporting characters. I found myself far more invested in the side characters and the intricacies of their realms than in the protagonist's journey. I hope we see more development for these characters. (Especially Azul—justice for Azul!)
Despite these things, I didn’t have a terrible time reading. There were moments where I wished the story had more depth or a sharper focus, but the steady momentum kept me turning pages. I’m definitely intrigued enough to continue with the series. The world-building and character dynamics show promise, and I’m curious to see where the story goes from here.
Mexican Gothic by Silvia Moreno-Garcia
dark
mysterious
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
2.5
I picked this up not knowing much of the plot but that this was some sort of horror/thriller. However, I wasn't as enthralled with the story as I hoped to be.
For about 80% of the story, nothing major happens. We teeter on the edge of revelations about the characters and the Doyle family history. But, nothing really happens until the final part of the book. The last 80 or so pages felt exciting and I was invested to see how this would resolve. It excusively featured the more likeable characters and was waiting for everything to tie in. But... it felt a bit underwhelming. Once things were answered regarding the house, Catalina, the Doyle family's past, it sort of plummeted from there. The major twist resolved itself fairly quickly and I ended feeling like there was a last chapter or two missing.
If you are someome who is looking for a psychological type horror story that focuses on the ever continuing mystery until a grand finale approaches - then I think this is the book to read. The writing was detailed and the characters had potential, I just personally wished for more.
For about 80% of the story, nothing major happens. We teeter on the edge of revelations about the characters and the Doyle family history. But, nothing really happens until the final part of the book. The last 80 or so pages felt exciting and I was invested to see how this would resolve. It excusively featured the more likeable characters and was waiting for everything to tie in. But... it felt a bit underwhelming. Once things were answered regarding the house, Catalina, the Doyle family's past, it sort of plummeted from there. The major twist resolved itself fairly quickly and I ended feeling like there was a last chapter or two missing.
If you are someome who is looking for a psychological type horror story that focuses on the ever continuing mystery until a grand finale approaches - then I think this is the book to read. The writing was detailed and the characters had potential, I just personally wished for more.
My Vampire Plus-One by Jenna Levine
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
Much like the first book, "My Vampire Plus-One" delivered on the nonstop witty humor, sass, and light hearted story I enjoyed.
Reginald and Amelia have the best chemistry and I found myself laughing even more in this installment. The funny charm of the vampires we came to know in the series is it's driving force and Levine knows what she is great at in writing these characters - and she nailed it (even more so in this sequel). I'll miss the characters and would definitely jump at the chance to read more of their insanely odd adventures.
If you are looking for something easy to read, sarcastically hilarious, light hearted, and doesn't necessarily take itself seriously (except at the times needed) then I would definitely recommend.
Reginald and Amelia have the best chemistry and I found myself laughing even more in this installment. The funny charm of the vampires we came to know in the series is it's driving force and Levine knows what she is great at in writing these characters - and she nailed it (even more so in this sequel). I'll miss the characters and would definitely jump at the chance to read more of their insanely odd adventures.
If you are looking for something easy to read, sarcastically hilarious, light hearted, and doesn't necessarily take itself seriously (except at the times needed) then I would definitely recommend.
Crooked Kingdom by Leigh Bardugo
adventurous
emotional
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? N/A
5.0
I wasn't sure how "Crooked Kingdom" would compare to "Six of Crows" but somehow it was even better. This has everything you can ever ask for:
-Amazing, tangible characters
-Action and adventure
-Suspense
-Great world building
-Moments that tug at your heart strings
Even though this wrapped up the duology nicely, I still would follow Kaz and gang on more adventures and with Bardugo's magic, it would probably be amazing. I'll miss the gang and Ketterdam and I can see myself re-reading this in the near future.
-Amazing, tangible characters
-Action and adventure
-Suspense
-Great world building
-Moments that tug at your heart strings
Even though this wrapped up the duology nicely, I still would follow Kaz and gang on more adventures and with Bardugo's magic, it would probably be amazing. I'll miss the gang and Ketterdam and I can see myself re-reading this in the near future.
Last Date in El Zapotal by Mateo García Elizondo
dark
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? Yes
3.0
This was a quick read that follows our narrator as he discusses his plan for his final days on earth. An addict who is trying to make peace with his actions, we set foot on a journey that suprisingly is a novel more about living than dying.
Through the eyes of the narrator, you get a sense of the longing, sadness, desire, and even the joy that is living despite his state of mind. Without mentioning any spoilers, the story takes a few turns that I didn't expect to pop up but I'm glad did. The story does a lot of comparison of the living and the dead and while it may seem this would be depressing, you actually can take some things out of this read.
Through the eyes of the narrator, you get a sense of the longing, sadness, desire, and even the joy that is living despite his state of mind. Without mentioning any spoilers, the story takes a few turns that I didn't expect to pop up but I'm glad did. The story does a lot of comparison of the living and the dead and while it may seem this would be depressing, you actually can take some things out of this read.
The Only Good Indians by Stephen Graham Jones
dark
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.0
My 2nd SGJ book. I enjoyed the writing style and flow of the story. I thought the 1st half was brilliant. It was engaging and the suspense and eeriness built up wonderfully.
There is a section of the last half that felt out of place for me and I felt if it was built up similar to the first half, it would have been perfect. There were several unanswered questions, which isn't exactly the issue but it's the lack of detail needed to come to our own conclusions to feel satisfied with the turn of events at the end. It felt as if a lot was thrown at you within the last 50 pages.
With that, am I going to read more SGJ books? Absolutely yes.
There is a section of the last half that felt out of place for me and I felt if it was built up similar to the first half, it would have been perfect. There were several unanswered questions, which isn't exactly the issue but it's the lack of detail needed to come to our own conclusions to feel satisfied with the turn of events at the end. It felt as if a lot was thrown at you within the last 50 pages.
With that, am I going to read more SGJ books? Absolutely yes.
My Year of Rest and Relaxation by Ottessa Moshfegh
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? N/A
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
1.0
I think everything that can be said has already been said in other reviews about this book. I kept reading, hoping for something to happen. But it just didn't. This isn't a plot driven story but the main character is so awful that nothing in the story moves forward. Its basically almost 300 pages of her being hateful, making weird comments about the human experience even though she is the one trying to find purpose, Whoppi Goldberg, internalized misogyny that doesn't get discussed, and a traumatic event in history occurs for ONE PAGE in the book without much reflection. I guess I was supposed to feel something, but all I felt was annoyed. I didn't take away anything from this.
Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo
adventurous
emotional
funny
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
I had mixed feelings after reading the Shadow and Bone trilogy, but Six of Crows took everything that frustrated me and executed it brilliantly in this one.
Ketterdam offers a refreshing change from the familiar landscapes of Ravka, and I was captivated by the thrilling heist plotline. The characters truly drove this story forward; each member of the crew brought unique dynamics and vibrant personalities that made the reading experience so enjoyable. I was fully immersed in the plot and never felt bored. While I can't deny that having read Shadow and Bone first was helpful for understanding the politics and terminology of this universe, I feel newcomers to the Grishaverse can still dive in and become invested in the adventure.
I’m excited to read the next one! The cliffhanger left me desperate to see how it all unfolds!
Ketterdam offers a refreshing change from the familiar landscapes of Ravka, and I was captivated by the thrilling heist plotline. The characters truly drove this story forward; each member of the crew brought unique dynamics and vibrant personalities that made the reading experience so enjoyable. I was fully immersed in the plot and never felt bored. While I can't deny that having read Shadow and Bone first was helpful for understanding the politics and terminology of this universe, I feel newcomers to the Grishaverse can still dive in and become invested in the adventure.
I’m excited to read the next one! The cliffhanger left me desperate to see how it all unfolds!