A mesmerizing dance between history, romance, and betrayal, Huang transports readers across epochs, where love's flame burns eternal amidst the chaos A mesmerizing dance between history, romance, and betrayal, Huang transports readers across epochs, where love's flame burns eternal amidst the chaos of changing worlds.
The narrative's structure, which shifts between three distinct time periods, left me feeling frequently disjointed. The transitions from historical settings to modern-day billionaire parties felt jarring and out of place, detracting from the overall cohesion of the story. My least favorite time period, the most modern, also appeared to be the author's weakest, lacking the depth of emotion present in the other two narratives. While the historical perspectives exuded love, adoration, and betrayal, the modern storyline seemed to falter in comparison, diminishing the overall impact of the novel.
The abundance of explicit content within the book was a significant drawback for me. While I understand the character-driven motivations behind these encounters, the overtly explicit nature of the content felt gratuitous and detracted from the storytelling. A more subtle approach or a reduction in the frequency of such encounters could have maintained the novel's effectiveness without compromising its thematic elements. However, it's important to note that 'The Emperor and the Endless Palace' falls within the romantasy genre, where explicit content is often expected. While it may not align with my personal preferences, I recognize its significance within the genre. Additionally, the scarcity of achillian romantasies makes this novel a pioneering effort, potentially paving the way for more diverse narratives in the future. It's essential to acknowledge that this is an adult novel, catering to a specific audience seeking themes of love, passion, and intrigue in a fantastical setting.
'The Emperor and the Endless Palace' remains an epic fantasy debut with substantial strengths in both writing and storytelling. While I was disappointed by certain aspects of the book, I am eager to see what future works the author produces, hoping for a more refined and cohesive narrative in their upcoming endeavors.
Thank you to the publisher for an advanced readers copy of this book. ...more
Thank you to the publisher for an advanced readers copy of this book.
I initially started this as a sampler, but within the first few chapters, I knewThank you to the publisher for an advanced readers copy of this book.
I initially started this as a sampler, but within the first few chapters, I knew I needed to read the whole book early. Wow. Fun, engaging mystery, and interesting characters made this a hit!
I was excited to dive into another Alex Finlay book, hoping to find a gem since so many people love his work. Despite not being impressed by the first one I read, this book turned out to be a delightful surprise.
The mystery is complex and has you jetting across the world and that was a blast for me. It had a new take on the cross country roadtrip mystery and added a lot of fun dimension to the story. There is a lot to say about this book but I found the main characters motivations and how he had to change his entire life due to being essentially at the wrong place at the wrong time. His entire life fell apart and he was forced to forge a new path in the shadows.
Really just a solid mystery, with a bit of a weird twist, but it worked and wrapped everything up in a way that was fun and satisfying.
I had the chance to listen to the audiobook and it was nice to hear the characters come to life. If you like audiobooks then this one is worth the listen!...more
What a whirlwind! I dove headfirst into Fatal First Edition without realizing it was part of an ongoing series – oops! Surprisingly, it didn't hinder What a whirlwind! I dove headfirst into Fatal First Edition without realizing it was part of an ongoing series – oops! Surprisingly, it didn't hinder my enjoyment. In fact, it added a layer of humor when the main character referenced past sticky situations. The author skillfully avoided making me feel like an outsider, which was a relief.
However, I found myself grappling with some extraneous details that distracted from the story. Tangents of information led nowhere, leaving me feeling a bit adrift. Nevertheless, I appreciated the strong examples of friendship and support for the main character. While not a profound love for me, the book was a breezy, enjoyable read. I'd certainly consider exploring more of the author's work. The narration added a lot of character to the story and made the characters more enjoyable.
Thank you to the publisher for an advanced readers copy of this book. ...more
One niche I adore is books that revolve around other books, weaving them seamlessly into the plot. The concept of a murder that eerily mirrors the proOne niche I adore is books that revolve around other books, weaving them seamlessly into the plot. The concept of a murder that eerily mirrors the protagonist's debut novel, which was a commercial failure, interested me immediately.
The characters in this story are not entirely likable, which adds to their realism and complexity. Their deep histories and personal struggles make them human and relatable, contributing to the book's success as a piece of literary fiction. Crouch's ability to develop such intricate characters is commendable. The varied types of love portrayed in this book are profound and integral to the storyline.
Elijah - Seeking a fresh start, Elijah abandons everything to move to the big city and pursue a career as a novelist. We see Elijah dealing with an internal wound from losing his mother and subsequently his father, who succumbed to grief and alcoholism. However, his novel flops. His journey to restore his father's old cabin becomes a source of pride and passion, symbolizing his own personal growth. As the land flourishes, so does Elijah, transforming into a new man.
Nakita - is left behind by Elijah but chooses to move on with an incredible man whom she eventually loses. She must navigate her own grief and rediscover herself, figuring out the direction she wants her life to take. I loved Nakita's internal thoughts and actions because she was the most mature person in the entire story.
Erin - is the hot blonde small-town doctor who carries a significant amount of trauma. She seems to be in a shock state the entire book so she has a really meh personality.
Overall, I think this is a great mesh for literary fiction lovers, and crime/mystery lovers. I would highly recommend it!
Thank you Atria, for an advanced readers copy. ...more
The annual Pace family vacation becomes a battleground of familial tensions and eerie occurrences. As the only one who feels out of place in her own fThe annual Pace family vacation becomes a battleground of familial tensions and eerie occurrences. As the only one who feels out of place in her own family, Anna navigates the vacation with two simple rules: tread lightly and survive. However, amidst the picturesque backdrop of Monteperso's remote villa, these rules prove increasingly difficult to uphold.
Thorne's storytelling prowess shines as she deftly portrays the intricacies of family dynamics, evoking both empathy and frustration towards the Pace family members. From Anna's passive twin brother to her obedient sister and her parents' conflicting personalities, each character adds depth to the narrative, revealing layers of tension and affection.
Set against the backdrop of a villa with a dark and violent history, the story takes a chilling turn as strange occurrences unfold. Eerie noises in the night and unsettling warnings from locals paint a sinister picture, heightening the tension and adding a palpable sense of dread to the Pace family's vacation.
Thorne seamlessly blends elements of horror with familial drama, crafting a narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. Through Anna's interactions with both the locals and the children, readers gain unique insights into her character, deepening their understanding of her struggles and motivations.
"Diavola" is a gripping tale that seamlessly weaves together horror and family dynamics, leaving readers captivated until the very end. Thorne's skillful storytelling and vivid imagery create an immersive reading experience that lingers long after the final page is turned.
Thank you Tor Nightfire for an advanced readers copy of this book to read and review. ...more
Catfish Rolling presents an intriguing blend of magical realism and Japanese mythology, promising a tale of grief, memory, and time amidst the backdroCatfish Rolling presents an intriguing blend of magical realism and Japanese mythology, promising a tale of grief, memory, and time amidst the backdrop of a nation rocked by an earthquake. The concept of a catfish beneath Japan's islands, its movements shaping the land, sets the stage for a captivating journey.
However, while the synopsis paints a vivid picture of the story's potential, the execution falls short. The narrative lacks cohesion, feeling more like a disjointed series of vignettes rather than a cohesive whole. It's as if we're glimpsing fragments of a larger narrative without ever fully immersing ourselves in it.
While the protagonist, Sora, navigates the wild and abandoned time zones with her scientist father, the story struggles to maintain a sense of direction. As Sora searches for her missing parents and confronts the enigmatic catfish, the plot meanders, leaving the reader longing for a more focused narrative.
Despite its shortcomings, Catfish Rolling offers glimpses of brilliance, particularly in its exploration of liminal spaces and the distortion of time. Yet, these moments of intrigue are overshadowed by the story's lack of cohesion and emotional depth. Ultimately, while the title may evoke curiosity, it fails to deliver on its promise, leaving readers with a sense of indifference rather than awe.
Thank you to the publisher for a listeners copy of this book. ...more
I had the pleasure of receiving "The Mystery Writer" from the publisher, and the moment I laid eyes on the cover, I was hooked. The allure of the artwI had the pleasure of receiving "The Mystery Writer" from the publisher, and the moment I laid eyes on the cover, I was hooked. The allure of the artwork promised a story worth embarking on. From the beginning, I found myself engrossed in the author's exploration of American stereotypes, delivered with a curious blend of satire and unsettling accuracy. This quirky narrative choice added depth to the story, making me question the boundaries between fiction and reality—a theme that resonated throughout the book.
One of the highlights for me was the rich atmosphere woven into the narrative, creating a vivid backdrop for the intriguing characters. The mentor-mentee dynamic between the writers was a particularly enjoyable aspect, adding layers of complexity to their relationships. I appreciated the intimate glimpse into the daily life and inner thoughts of the female lead, Theo. It brought a sense of authenticity to her character and allowed me to connect with her on a deeper level. As the story unfolded and tensions escalated, I found the pacing to be perfectly suited to the narrative, maintaining suspense while staying true to the characters' motivations and development.
The synopsis hints at a labyrinthine journey into a hidden literary world, and "The Mystery Writer" certainly delivers on that promise. The murder mystery intertwined with themes of identity and the power of storytelling kept me on the edge of my seat until the very end. Overall, "The Mystery Writer" is a gripping literary thriller that challenges perceptions and delves into the darker corners of the writing world. Sulari Gentill has crafted a tale that is both thought-provoking and thoroughly entertaining, leaving readers hungry for more.
Thank you to the publisher for an advanced copy of this book to read and review. ...more
Thank you Blackstone Publishing for an advanced readers copy of this book.
I read this in a day!!? and yet I have had an outrageously hard time tryingThank you Blackstone Publishing for an advanced readers copy of this book.
I read this in a day!!? and yet I have had an outrageously hard time trying to write this review. Every time I start I erase the entire thing so let's start with some easy bullet points.
1) The characters are all a bit copy and paste stereotypes that sometimes make them a bit painful but they do the job they're supposed to. 2) The storyline was a blast, and I loved the various routes we took to figure out WHAT HAPPENED. 3) I thought the family dynamics directly led us to the plot twist, ending, and all the in-between which made this feel like a family drama psychological thriller and I thoroughly enjoyed that! 4) This was the tiniest bit spooky? Spooky = good.
(1,3) Back to the family dynamics - The expectations the siblings had of each other gave a strong sense of the unreliable narrator with a good dose of character development (CD). You expect so little of everyone that when anything positive happens its a win for the CD. I never found myself enjoying the characters and sometimes even disliked them but the story did have a strong reliance on who they are and our expectations for them.
(2) I loved the story itself. I thought that a mysterious VHS at the beginning was a fun way to get a reverse storyline where you still don't know what happened but you know as much as the main characters do. This made it fun to get all of the information and clues and feel like you could figure it out alongside the main character.
(4) SPOOKY. I thought Rose did a good job at creating an atmosphere, especially near the end, where it helped propel the story and added an eerie vibe to the story. Atmosphere is a bit subjective but it worked for me!...more
Breaking the law becomes a means of carving out one's own destiny. Lin Chong, an arms instructor for the Emperor's soldiers, finds her carefully constBreaking the law becomes a means of carving out one's own destiny. Lin Chong, an arms instructor for the Emperor's soldiers, finds her carefully constructed life shattered by a powerful foe, leading her into the company of the Bandits of Liangshan. This group, though morally complex, embodies a belief in justice and rebellion against the oppressive forces of the Empire.
Reflecting on this adventurous narrative, I find myself torn between admiration and frustration. Huang's narrative delivers gripping action sequences and boasts strong female protagonists, offering a refreshing perspective within the genre. However, one character's incessant whining and the inclusion of numerous raunchy moments proved distracting, detracting from the overall enjoyment of the story.
The geographical breadth of the story, coupled with its exploration of various political themes, adds depth and richness to the narrative. Huang deftly navigates through the complexities of power dynamics and societal injustices, painting a vivid picture of a world on the brink of upheaval.
Ultimately, "The Water Outlaws" presents a mixed bag of emotions. While the inclusion of certain elements hindered my overall experience, the compelling plot and engaging characters still managed to captivate my attention. If not for the divisive character and occasional tonal missteps, my rating would undoubtedly lean towards a more favorable evaluation. Nevertheless, I cannot deny the allure of Huang's storytelling prowess and the undeniable appeal of the novel's cover, making it a notable addition to my reading list.
Thank you to the publisher for an advanced listeners copy of this book. ...more
Tintera delves into the murky depths of small-town gossip and the devastating consequences of jumping to conclusions.
An absolute rollercoaster of a tTintera delves into the murky depths of small-town gossip and the devastating consequences of jumping to conclusions.
An absolute rollercoaster of a thriller that grips you from the very first page and doesn't let go until the heart-stopping conclusion. The pacing of this novel is simply electrifying. Tintera masterfully keeps readers on the edge of their seats, with twists and turns that leave you breathless and constantly flipping pages to uncover the next clue. The incorporation of podcast episodes as a storytelling device adds an extra layer of excitement, propelling the narrative forward and heightening the sense of urgency to unravel the truth behind Savvy's murder.
The characters in "Listen for the Lie" are richly drawn and utterly compelling. Each perspective offers a unique glimpse into the tangled web of secrets and lies surrounding Savvy's death, keeping readers guessing until the very end. Tintera skillfully navigates the complexities of human relationships, making every character feel authentic and multidimensional.
I particularly enjoyed the way Tintera explores the theme of perception versus reality. As Lucy grapples with the accusations against her, the novel delves into the murky depths of small-town gossip and the devastating consequences of jumping to conclusions. The exploration of truth and memory adds an intriguing layer of depth to the narrative, keeping readers questioning everything they think they know.
Overall, "Listen for the Lie" is a pulse-pounding thriller that will leave you guessing until the final page. I would highly recommend it to anyone who loves a good mystery, as well as those looking to dip their toes into the genre for the first time. Amy Tintera has crafted a truly addictive read that will linger in your mind long after you've turned the last page.
The audiobook for this was truly fantastic! It also does a great job of differentiating the story from the podcast episodes and really brings them to life. Great voice acting!
Thank you Celadon for an advanced readers copy of Listen for the Lie. ✨...more
Having been disappointed by a previous work from Christopher Golden, I approached 'The House of Last Resort' with caution. However, I was pleasantly sHaving been disappointed by a previous work from Christopher Golden, I approached 'The House of Last Resort' with caution. However, I was pleasantly surprised; this book far exceeded my expectations. The premise, centered around an American couple, Tommy and Kate Puglisi, who move to the seemingly idyllic town of Becchina in Italy after buying a house for a single Euro, sets the stage for a gripping tale. However, their romantic adventure turns sinister as they discover unsettling secrets lurking within their new home, including hidden rooms, strange noises, and a dark history tied to the Church.
Golden skillfully crafts a chilling atmosphere, evoking palpable trepidation and fear within the characters. The setting, where cultural and linguistic barriers hinder comprehension, adds an intriguing layer to the narrative, fostering a stronger connection with the characters and amplifying the impact of their decisions. As the story unfolds, Golden expertly revisits earlier moments, unveiling shocking revelations that shed new light on the character's motivations. While the ending felt somewhat rushed and unexpected, it provided a satisfactory conclusion, albeit not entirely aligned with the buildup. Some late-stage plot developments felt unnecessary, injected seemingly for added drama rather than integral to the story's progression.
Overall, 'The House of Last Resort' delivers an engaging and eerie tale, showcasing Golden's talent for weaving suspenseful narratives amidst haunting locales. Despite its minor flaws, this novel captivates with its atmospheric storytelling and compelling characters.
Thank you to the publisher for an advanced readers copy of this book. ...more
The Blood Gift suffers from the constraints of being a duology. While it's evident that expanding the story into a trilogy coul02/19/24 THE REVIEW ---
The Blood Gift suffers from the constraints of being a duology. While it's evident that expanding the story into a trilogy could have addressed many unresolved aspects, it's worth acknowledging that debut authors may have limited control over such decisions, often relying on publisher preferences.
Moving on to the heart of the review, Ikenna and her team's descent into chaos as they go rogue is depicted with palpable intensity. Ikenna's bullheaded and egotistical nature, while occasionally off-putting, adds layers to her character, offering glimpses into her inner conflicts. The supporting cast is well-balanced, introducing new characters and unveiling revelations about existing ones.
However, glaring plot gaps detract from the overall experience. Certain pivotal plot points lack resolution or feel conveniently brushed aside without consequences, leaving the narrative feeling rushed and incomplete. The sudden influx of world-building towards the conclusion also feels disjointed, diminishing the impact of the lore on the story's resolution.
Despite these shortcomings, N.E. Davenport's writing shines through, holding promise for future endeavors. While the structural issues hinder full immersion, there's an undeniable allure to the story's core. As the author refines her storytelling craft, I anticipate future works with eager anticipation.
2/5/24 - Starting my reread of The Blood Trials so I can jump into The Blood Gift fully prepared. February is going to be the month of N.E. Davenport because I will, hopefully, also be reading Out of Body if my library hold comes in.
Thank you to the publisher for an eARC of both The Blood Trials and The Blood Gift. ...more