This was great!! You can tell the author knows and loves what he’s writing about. I love when fellow history nerds write about their passions. I learnThis was great!! You can tell the author knows and loves what he’s writing about. I love when fellow history nerds write about their passions. I learned so much about queer lore and history. I would buy this book and put it on my coffee table. It’s engaging and reads like a book of mythology instead of nonfiction analysis. Fascinating! Funny! 10/10. I highly recommend
Merged review:
This was great!! You can tell the author knows and loves what he’s writing about. I love when fellow history nerds write about their passions. I learned so much about queer lore and history. I would buy this book and put it on my coffee table. It’s engaging and reads like a book of mythology instead of nonfiction analysis. Fascinating! Funny! 10/10. I highly recommend...more
Wild West Village is refreshing and entertaining, especially compared to the slog of whiney celebrity memoirs I've reviewed in the past.
I didn't know Wild West Village is refreshing and entertaining, especially compared to the slog of whiney celebrity memoirs I've reviewed in the past.
I didn't know anything about Lola Kirke or her family before reading this but I enjoyed learning about her life. A lot of this book focuses on her tough childhood which I found heartfelt and, at times, darkly funny. Obviously, all "wealthy" memoirs are going to be a little out of touch but Kirke's is nearly self-aware---kudos!
Thank you to the publishers and Netgalley for this ARC....more
As a hockey fan but a romance-novel skeptic, I was intrigued by the premise of this book and decided to shoot my shot (haha). Unfortunately, I strugglAs a hockey fan but a romance-novel skeptic, I was intrigued by the premise of this book and decided to shoot my shot (haha). Unfortunately, I struggled to connect with the story and couldn’t quite make it to the final buzzer. It has intense 13-year-old author on Wattpad energy.
Things I did enjoy: the diverse characters and, of course, hockey! There were also some cute moments, and knowing that LaFleur Brown is married to an ex-NHLer gave the story an added layer of charm.
What didn’t quite work for me: the dialogue, the writing style, and—though not the author’s fault—the ebook’s bizarre formatting. The dialogue, in particular, had me cringing. It often felt like someone desperately trying to keep up with Gen Z slang, and by the 35% mark, I had to call it quits.
That said, I know there’s an audience for this book—TikTok romance fans, this one's for you! If you love your romances filled with cliches (*cough cough* black cat x golden retriever) and don’t mind a little (or a lot of) over-the-top dialogue, this one’s all yours. As for me, I guess I’ll have to find other ways to live out my WAG dreams....more
The Starving Saints by Caitlin Starling is a queer medieval body-horror novel that dives deep into themes of religion and loyalty (with a generous serThe Starving Saints by Caitlin Starling is a queer medieval body-horror novel that dives deep into themes of religion and loyalty (with a generous serving of cannibalism). WARNING: Do not eat while reading.
It is engaging, refreshing, and a little graphic. For those who are gore-curious, the descriptions aren’t drastically bloody, but the context of the gore? Yeah....eww. The book builds a haunting, mysterious atmosphere that lingers, and the characters—especially the Saints—are compelling in the most unsettling way. I wasn’t expecting the level of body horror, and since I don’t usually read it, I struggled with some moments. That said, I know there’s an audience that thrives on queer cannibal narratives (Yellowjackets Hive, this one’s for you), so I have no doubt this book will find its people.
Try a spoonful of honey before reading, I hear it does wonders for your psyche!
Thank you NetGalley and the publishers for this ARC. <3...more
The Motherload is a collection of stories about motherhood, specifically postpartum depression. It's been compared to Anna Marie Tendler's Men Have CaThe Motherload is a collection of stories about motherhood, specifically postpartum depression. It's been compared to Anna Marie Tendler's Men Have Called Her Crazy, and there are definitely similarities.
However, The Motherload sometimes feels a bit too privileged for my taste. It can be hard to relate to the narrator when their experiences seem so far removed from everyday life. The narrator is unlikeable and distant. Her sarcastic tone might work for some people but it really turned me off of this book.
That said, the writing is good, and some people will definitely connect with it.
I'd recommend it if: 1) You loved "Men Have Called Her Crazy" 2) You're curious about the lives of wealthy mothers
**I received an ARC of The Motherload in exchange for a fair and honest review.**...more
"What lay before Joesph was unknowable, a gape. It scared him. Yet lying there, on this summer afternoon, he soothed himself with a question: How bad "What lay before Joesph was unknowable, a gape. It scared him. Yet lying there, on this summer afternoon, he soothed himself with a question: How bad to be buried in the warm earth and listen to the world conduct itself around you."
"Death must be so beautiful. To lie in the soft brown earth, with the grasses waving above one's head, and listen to silence. To have no yesterday, and no tomorrow. To forget time, to forgive life, to be at peace." - Oscar Wilde
The Hounding by Xenobe Purvis is an absurd, insightful, and captivating novel. Set in a small village in 18-century England, its charming atmosphere is shadowed by unsettling characters who feel disconcertingly real. There’s a persistent undercurrent of unease, and Purvis masterfully leverages the unknown, keeping both her characters and readers perpetually in the dark.
Although five sisters are the book's central characters, they are not granted POVs. Instead, that privilege belongs to the villagers: a misogynistic ferryman, a barmaid nicknamed Temperance, a lovesick farmhand, the sisters' blind grandfather, and an animal-loving youth struggling with his identity. This eclectic group forms a complex society where gossip thrives, and fear of the unknown spreads like wildfire. Each narrator embodies distinct facets of the community, with their perspectives on the sisters revealing more about their own beliefs and biases than about the girls themselves.
The Hounding is an incredibly well-written novel about truth, femininity, fear, and sisterhood. Several lines made a big impact on me and my understanding of today's political climate. I really hope this book gets the hype it deserves. If you’re considering picking this up, please do—it absolutely lives up to its stunning cover.
Thank you NetGalley and the publishers for this incredible ARC!...more
When the Tides Held the Moon by Venessa Vida Kelley is a wonderful, fun, and ambitious debut. I loved the setting (1911ish, NYC) and the wide range ofWhen the Tides Held the Moon by Venessa Vida Kelley is a wonderful, fun, and ambitious debut. I loved the setting (1911ish, NYC) and the wide range of diverse characters.
This book follows Benny, an immigrant from Puerto Rico, who accidentally stumbles into a ringleader’s plan to capture a merman for his oddities collection (very P.T. Barnum-esque). Benny joins the show as the merman’s caretaker and connects with the creature, both men similarly longing for home.
In short, this is a fantastic and immersive book. The world is well built and accessible while each character is thought out and uniquely motivated. The love story is sweet and nicely developed. Overall, I am impressed that this is a debut and can’t wait to see what the author writes next.
My only minor gripe is the pacing. It felt a bit slow at times, especially towards the end. Some scenes dragged on, and the stakes didn't always feel high enough. Still, I was hooked enough to finish it, even if I skipped a few pages here and there (oops!).
I recommend this to anyone who loves a good romance, wants to see more Hispanic representation, or enjoys period pieces (I loved the reference to the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire.).
The illustrations are stunning and I can’t wait to see this book in the stores sometime in the near future! Fingers crossed that TikTok gets a hold of this book because it deserves to go viral.
Thank you NetGalley and the publishers for the ARC!...more
I am so glad I listened to the audiobook version of this book. The narrator has a very rustic voice absolutely perfect for this story. I don't think II am so glad I listened to the audiobook version of this book. The narrator has a very rustic voice absolutely perfect for this story. I don't think I would've enjoyed the book as much if I didn't listen to it.
I learned a lot about the Wild West and its bandits. Sometimes the narrative went off on tangents which made the story hard to follow. I'd definitely recommend it if you're a fan of Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid!
Thank you NetGalley and the publishers for the ARC!...more
**spoiler alert** 2.5. Thank you NetGalley and publishers for the ARC.
After reading Weyward, I was really looking forward to this book. Unfortunately,**spoiler alert** 2.5. Thank you NetGalley and publishers for the ARC.
After reading Weyward, I was really looking forward to this book. Unfortunately, I thought The Sirens was messy and disappointing. My main complaint is how drawn out each reveal was. I guessed the main twist pretty early on and spent the rest of the book anticipating a reveal that was too little too late.
The premise was interesting and I enjoyed the multi-generation POVs but every character was weighed down by the same "what's wrong with me??" storyline. I can tell you what's wrong with you!!! I figured it out 100 pages ago and I'm starting to think the author thinks I'm a) dumb or b) oblivious.
There was another late-stage twist that was absolutely bonkers. It made me feel really weird and I don't think any of the characters reacted normally. Also, this reveal was so out of left field (I was too busy focusing on the OTHER obvious twist) that I had to set the book down for a sec. Personally, I did not like how this was handled. It felt VERY anti-adoption which made me uncomfortable.
I am giving this book three stars because it was ok and two stars feels harsh (also the cover art is beautiful). Emilia Hart clearly loves telling stories about women but I would love if they leaned more into the magical aspects that are always present. COMMIT TO IT. I spent nearly 300 pages waiting for mermaids and barely got anything.
Disappointing but I'd recommend if you're bored and looking for something new....more
This book is phenomenal! I learned a great deal from it and appreciated the insightful comparisons and contrasts. As a history student, I consider it This book is phenomenal! I learned a great deal from it and appreciated the insightful comparisons and contrasts. As a history student, I consider it essential for my bookshelf. The portrayal of both presidents is vivid and humanizing, making the book highly engaging. Its accessible content means that readers of all experience levels will find it valuable. I highly recommend it and look forward to getting my own copy once it's published!...more
Thank you for breaking me out of my reading slump.
Forever yours, Madalyn
Honey is a fun, sexy, and page turning read! The concept isn’t revoDear Honey,
Thank you for breaking me out of my reading slump.
Forever yours, Madalyn
Honey is a fun, sexy, and page turning read! The concept isn’t revolutionary but the delivery? the prose? excellent! I’m not one for romance but I adored the relationships in this book. Where can i find a man like Axel? Seriously.
The characters were great and very human. I loved trying to spot the inspiration for each celebrity (i think there’s a hint of 1D/NSYNC and T-Swift in here but I’m not sure). I also loved how Amber wasn’t instantly successful. She was unapologetically flawed and constantly discovering herself. She felt authentic. If she was real, I would admittedly love to hate her.
The author captured the craziness of pop culture. As someone invested in PR and heavily influenced by Twitter, each plot point flowed together realistically and I truly can’t criticize much of the story here.
I’m ashamed to admit I went into this book searching for its flaws. Looking to make comparisons to books that have come before it (ie the Taylor Jenkins Reid universe) but I came up short. This book is unique and satisfying. It delivers on its promises and adds a little bit of spice. Loved the casual lgbt representation!!
5 stars!! Thank you NetGalley and the publishers for the ARC ...more
Burn is a very lovely exploration of male friendship. I enjoyed the characters and the unique setting. The whole narrative has a very rustic feel. I wBurn is a very lovely exploration of male friendship. I enjoyed the characters and the unique setting. The whole narrative has a very rustic feel. I would like to admit that I struggled reading this because of the premise (mass secession and civil war). However, I did end up liking the post apocalyptic feel. I do wish that the cause of all the mayhem was further explored. I think fans of The Last of Us and the Civil War movie that came out recently will enjoy this book. Truthfully, I ended up skimming a lot of the middle which is why I am only giving this book 3.5 stars. Lots of moments felt repetitive and I think it would have been beneficial if the reader knew why this chaos was happening. I wish all these stories involving a modern civil war would commit to the concept and give us the details!!
I picked this book up for the civil war plot and stayed for the friendship, even though the friendship barely held my interest by the end. Great prose, great style. 3.5 stars.
Thank you to NetGally and the publishers for the ARC....more
I was disappointed by this book. After absolutely loving Clytemnestra, I had high hopes for Babylonia, but it just didn’t measure up.
I had a hard timeI was disappointed by this book. After absolutely loving Clytemnestra, I had high hopes for Babylonia, but it just didn’t measure up.
I had a hard time connecting with the characters, especially Semiramis, the protagonist. She started out as a complex and intriguing figure, but as the story progressed, she seemed to lose her depth and became, for lack of a better term, a “Mary Sue.” She could do no wrong, easily outmaneuvered her political rivals (mostly other women), and even the male characters—one of whom might be aro/ace—fall hopelessly in love with her without much effort. It was frustrating to see such a promising character lose her complexity.
The standout for me was Onnes, the king’s stoic governor, brother, and possibly lover. Unlike the other characters, Onnes was refreshingly complex and mysterious. Forget "morally gray"—he was borderline sociopathic. However, of course, Semiramis comes along and melts his cold, dark heart. I won’t spoil anything, but the conclusion to his arc felt unfulfilling, even though it’s myth-accurate. I always find it disappointing when characters with trauma are reduced to mere plot devices.
On a more positive note, I really enjoyed the love triangle in the book, mostly because it was an actual triangle! The queer representation was a welcome surprise, and I found that dynamic to be the most engaging part of the story. However, I do wish Casati had explored the relationship between Onnes and Ninus more deeply—what we got felt like crumbs, but I’ll take what I can get.
That said, I did enjoy Babylonia (at least the first half). I learned a lot about mythology and really appreciated the historical context Casati provided at the end. You can tell she’s passionate about these subjects and cares about portraying them accurately. I’ll definitely be reading whatever she writes next, but I don’t think I’ll be revisiting Babylonia anytime soon.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for the ARC!...more
if you picked this book up hoping for a tell all, you will be incredibly disappointed. if you picked this book up hoping for an exploration of mental if you picked this book up hoping for a tell all, you will be incredibly disappointed. if you picked this book up hoping for an exploration of mental health and the patriarchy, you’re in for a satisfying and wild ride.
i will admit, as a casual fan of Anna’s ex-husband, i was excited to learn about their relationship (i am a nosey bitch, shoot me). but when i began reading, i knew i was about to experience something entirely different. it’s triggering, upsetting, and difficult but also enlightening, hopeful, and inspirational. i really enjoyed learning about Anna’s experiences. you don’t need to know anything about her (or her ex) to connect with the humanity of this memoir.
that being said, there were a couple things that bothered me in this book. i don’t mean to criticize Anna’s life choices or diminish her struggle, but she is very privileged which causes some parts to seem oblivious and out of touch. again, nothing against Anna but it’s hard to sympathize with someone who makes lampshades on her boyfriend’s budget.
this is a good memoir just remember that it IS a “celebrity” memoir (even if her fame is never mentioned).
thank you NetGally and the publishers for this ARC. ...more
I really struggled to get into this book. The characters (as advertised) are filthy rich which obviously is intriguing but it also makes them ridiculoI really struggled to get into this book. The characters (as advertised) are filthy rich which obviously is intriguing but it also makes them ridiculously hard to relate to or care for. Honestly, I dnfed at around 45% because I didn’t have the energy to continue. I had high hopes for this one but I just don’t think the storyline is for me. Maybe it’s worth another try someday but I don’t think I’ll be reading it again anytime soon. ...more
I really enjoyed this book. It’s a true crime murder mystery with characters that are familiar but still interesting. It has a rustic vibe but it’s deI really enjoyed this book. It’s a true crime murder mystery with characters that are familiar but still interesting. It has a rustic vibe but it’s definitely more Ethel Cain Americana than, let’s say, bright & happy cottage-core. The story is entwined with its surroundings which is why I’ve included that chronically online comparison; it’s very important that you know the vibes going in. Without spoiling anything, this is a book for David Fincher fans (specifically that movie he made in 2014 iykyk…). I loved it. I would recommend it to anyone looking for a cozy fast read with twists that aren’t too complicated and characters that truly come alive. My only complaint has to do with originality specifically regarding the similarities between this book and the previously mentioned Fincher film. I look forward to reading more of Sarah Crouch’s work! ...more
Whale Fall is a very impressive debut with beautiful prose and a quiet yet interesting story. It is told in small vignettes that transport the reader Whale Fall is a very impressive debut with beautiful prose and a quiet yet interesting story. It is told in small vignettes that transport the reader back in time. I can definitely see my rating going to five stars as I take some time and reflect on this novel. There isn't much action and the plot meanders but that is precisely what makes the atmosphere come alive. If you're craving an old-fashioned English isle vibe, this is the book for you. I'm so glad I stumbled upon it and I would 100% recommend it to anyone who needs a break from modernity.
Thank you to NetGally and the publishers for this ARC! Available: May 7th, 2024...more
A mix of Clytemnestra by Costanza Casati, Weyward by Emilia Hart, and, oddly enough, a sprinkle of Nathaniel Hawthorne's Scarlet Letter; The NightingaA mix of Clytemnestra by Costanza Casati, Weyward by Emilia Hart, and, oddly enough, a sprinkle of Nathaniel Hawthorne's Scarlet Letter; The Nightingale's Castle is an ambitious addition to the 'mythology retelling' genre. Most people probably know the story of the "Blood Countess" aka Elizabeth Báthory, but few take the time to research and understand the nuances of the tale. In The Nightingale's Castle, Sonia Velton proposes an alternative, albeit fictional, account that is entertaining, complex, and refreshing, especially considering this genre's redundant tendencies.
Stylistically, this book is very well executed. Velton tells the story through many different perspectives, including those of minor characters that provide clever insight into the actions and personality of the two main characters. These little inserts were the highlight of the book for me. My favorite was Marta, a "feeble-minded" woman who is tasked with caring for the bodies of the deceased. Her narrative voice is so distinct and pure, it is hard not to root for her despite her minimal "screen time." Having multiple POVs was a great decision by the author, especially since the main character's POV gets repetitive. For me, the choppy switches between POVs were often more enjoyable than not and made the book and its characters come alive.
An important disclaimer about this book is that it does not claim to be historically accurate, which is a relief---I've certainly been traumatized by "historical" retellings in the past. Most historians agree that Báthory and her accomplices did commit at least some of these crimes, a fact that should be kept in mind while reading. While I understand that these individuals are long deceased, we must not forget that Báthory's victims were real people with real lives. Nonetheless, as this book is a work of fiction, I'm not too troubled by the author's alterations, especially since she seems to genuinely respect the individuals upon whom these characters are based.
The plot was fine. The beginning is stronger than the end, which was disappointing, especially considering that the end was supposed to be the climax. Obviously, Velton is working with a pre-established plot, so it's hard to criticize the ending, and I think she makes the best of the material she was given. Because this is a work of fiction, Velton does take some artistic liberties with the plot, which at times amplified the story and at others muddled it. I truly feel Velton may have felt trapped by conflicting expectations of historical accuracy and the story that she wanted to tell. She walks a fine--sometimes wobbly--line between historical retelling and a new narrative. For example, there is a magical aspect in the book that is never explained and that should've been either removed or used more often. I would've loved if Velton leaned more into this fantasy aspect, as it is refreshing and unexpected. It is not Velton's fault that there is a disconnect between her creative additions and the historical narrative; instead, it is a limitation of the genre.
If you're curious about this book, don't let my borderline obsession with accuracy dissuade you. This is a fun read! The characters and their relationships with each other are interesting and, honestly, deserve to live outside of the strict framework that history has placed on them. Velton does Báthory's character justice, and although historians will continue to debate the countess' innocence, this story reminds us of female strength under persecution--a tale as old as time.
VERDICT: I would recommend this book to fans of Madeline Miller, people interested in true crime, and casual historians. It's an ambitious work that has considerable strengths despite its sometimes confusing plot. As long as you're not picky about historical accuracies and are in the mood for some female empowerment and a cool looking cover, this book is for you.
Rating: 3.5 Thank you NetGally and the publishers for this ARC! Available July 30th, 2024....more
This book has some great moments, notably Micheal’s POV. However, the subject matter and references are meant for someone deep in academia—which I am This book has some great moments, notably Micheal’s POV. However, the subject matter and references are meant for someone deep in academia—which I am not. I really loved the writing style, I thought it was beautiful. I am a sucker for concise elegant prose and this was perfect.
The original author is clearly very talented and this translation is accessible and well done. I think if you’re looking for something new and complex, this is the book for you. It’s very original and I loved the idea of blending historical figures and modern day lives.
I wish I had more background knowledge on Caravaggio, I’m sure it would’ve made the story more engaging. Overall, interesting and well written but meant for a select audience. If you’re on the fence…give it a try!
Thank you NetGally for the ARC! Publication date: April 12th...more
I thought this book was well written and had great potential, however it’s religious undertones were too much for me and i ended up dnf-ing around 40%I thought this book was well written and had great potential, however it’s religious undertones were too much for me and i ended up dnf-ing around 40% through.
I want to start with the positives: the characters and the setting. I am a sucker for nature stories which is why I picked this book up in the first place. There is something both romantic and daunting about the “deep wild”. The author painted a beautiful picture of Alaska and I often felt like I was there alongside the characters. If you’re looking for a nature story, this one is for you.
Additionally, I thought the POVs were very well done especially the POV of the wolves. Such a creative and well executed decision. There were moments where I honestly wished that the entire story was from Silver’s perspective.
Now, for the reason I am dnf-ing; false advertising. I was expecting this story to be a survival thriller and it was….sort of. I was not dragged into this story the way I needed to be. I was also discombobulated by the religious messages and undertones. Now, I have nothing against religious books (I’m religious myself) but nowhere in the description of this book was there any mention of religion. I am so serious when I say it was a jump scare. I wish this element was mentioned in the bio because I likely would’ve saved some of my time. This is a personal preference and if you like random biblical references tossed in your face—more power to ya.
This book was beautifully written but did not hook me and its misleading categorization led me to anticipate a story that did not exist.
2.5
Thank you NetGally & publishers for the ARC...more