I say this every time, but WHAT a story! There were so many good moments of growth, even with all the chaos and gore. One of the biggest improvements I say this every time, but WHAT a story! There were so many good moments of growth, even with all the chaos and gore. One of the biggest improvements from the first book was the communication between the characters. In The Scarlet Alchemist, there was a lot lack of communication, but in The Blood Orchid, I felt like that gap was fixed and heavily focused on, and it made the character development feel so much stronger. That said, I’ll admit, Zilan definitely took a beating in the first half of the book. It was exhausting just reading about it! She was being attacked left and right with no warning or reason it felt like. It felt a bit rushed and at times, unnecessary, but things definitely started to balance out by the middle.
What I really loved was how the story focused on Zilan’s personal growth rather than just her relationship with a single person. It was refreshing to see how Zilan could love in multiple ways, making her feel like a truly complex character. And, her unapologetic selfishness? Amazing. She recognized her flaws and choices, acknowledging the consequences, but still stood firm in fighting for what she wanted and believed others deserved.
Kylie Lee Baker did a fantastic job with the antagonist too giving her a human side without excusing her actions. It was a delicate balance that worked well for the story. While I would’ve liked a more satisfying resolution for a few characters, the overall ending felt right. It was bittersweet, sad, but also happy in its own way, showing that Zilan couldn’t have everything she wanted without paying a price.
Overall, The Blood Orchid perfectly concluded The Scarlet Alchemist duology. It packed in so much emotion and magic and left me feeling both satisfied and heartbroken at the same time....more
Where do I even start? This was an absolute journey from beginning to end. I love characters with depth, o4.5 ⭐️
(tw: blood and I mean a lot of blood!)
Where do I even start? This was an absolute journey from beginning to end. I love characters with depth, ones who aren’t one-dimensional but have layered personalities. It was clear that so much thought went into why each character felt and acted the way they did, which made them interesting. Zilan, in particular, is such a force. She’s strong-willed, refuses to take crap from anyone, and is driven almost entirely by her desire and ambition, sometimes to a fault I’ll admit. But her determination to survive, to make sure everyone survives, is what keeps the story moving at such a great pace. I also love how morally gray she is. She knows exactly what she wants and will go to whatever lengths to make it happen, no matter the cost. And I quite literally mean ANYTHING lol
Kylie Lee Baker did not skimp on making sure Zilan lived up to her name, The Scarlet Alchemist. She fully embodied that title, and Baker didn’t beat around the bush either, she got straight to the point every time. I really appreciated, compared to other books I’ve read, how consistently evil the enemy characters are. There was no sudden softening or hesitation in their ambition, they are consistent through and through, which made the stakes feel that much higher.
The Scarlet Alchemist was intense and completely captivating. That said, I did feel like Zilan sometimes let her ambition cloud her judgment, and a few parts of the story moved a little too quickly for me. But overall, I had such a great time reading it. The ending also had the perfect balance, satisfying enough to feel complete but still leaving me wanting to read the second book ASAP....more
**spoiler alert** What was that?! I went into this book loosely knowing what it was about, and let me just say, I was not prepared. That’s not to say **spoiler alert** What was that?! I went into this book loosely knowing what it was about, and let me just say, I was not prepared. That’s not to say I didn’t have a good time, but… goodness gracious! This entire book was one gigantic red flag ...more
If the cover doesn’t immediately grab all your attention, then the first couple pages will! I admit I am not much of a horror girly… the smallest thinIf the cover doesn’t immediately grab all your attention, then the first couple pages will! I admit I am not much of a horror girly… the smallest things can scare me for days(even kid like horror lol), but Louise Hung crafted this story in a way that kept pulling me in for the mystery despite my brain wanting to stop because the haunting/ghost. The lighthearted and funny moments Hung weaved throughout really balanced the ghostly parts. I especially loved the different perspectives on the “haunting”, the pizza crust and coughing scene was seriously too good! ...more
I was randomly scrolling through Libby for a summer read and found this book! I need to do this more often, just picking up whatever 3.5 ⭐️ rounded up
I was randomly scrolling through Libby for a summer read and found this book! I need to do this more often, just picking up whatever catches my eye without worrying about my TBR list. I mean, it’s how I chose books back in middle and high school and that usually never let me down lol. Anyway, I was pleasantly surprised by this book. The beginning piqued my interest, then it got a bit repetitive, but it eventually settled into a consistent pace and felt like a calming summer movie/show.
The attention to detail in the characters and their careers was something that stood out to me (note I’m not a professional in any of the areas I’m about to mention). For example, Ty’s work in creating potable water, Charley’s veteran support efforts, Ruth and Inez’s bakery, and Phoebe’s journalism all felt authentic and well-developed. Shelley Noble did a fantastic job making each character feel realistic and it did not feel like any of them were there just to help the plot progress. I also appreciated the slow approach to Ty and Phoebe’s romance. They were dealing with a lot and needed personal growth before starting anything. Their romance wasn’t rushed or founded on lust but developed slowly and genuinely.
If there’s one thing that frustrates me, as I’ve mentioned before in other reviews lol, it’s when characters are secretive for low-stakes reasons. Many issues could have been avoided or resolved if they communicated better. But, this did add to the story’s tension, so I can kinda understand it in this case.
Despite the slow start, this turned out to be a really good, simple slice-of-life story. The different storylines intertwined beautifully, emphasizing themes of family bonds, trust, grief, and personal growth. It wasn’t just about Phoebe finding her footing again; it was about everyone. I loved how the narrative expanded to include all the characters: Phoebe, Ty, Ruth, Great Aunt Vera, Grandma Alice, Lars, and even Charley ❤️....more
This felt like a nostalgic throwback to early 2000s rom-coms (which are always the perfect comfort movies), especially with the pacing and movie magicThis felt like a nostalgic throwback to early 2000s rom-coms (which are always the perfect comfort movies), especially with the pacing and movie magic/coincidences! Initially, Noah wasn't my favorite, but he grew on me and developed a more patient and understanding nature as you got to know him. Lucy, on the other hand, is steadfast and determined, shaped by her past and by her parents relationship. I struggled a bit to understand Lucy’s choices, but she is someone trying to navigate what her head AND her heart are saying… and can’t we all say we’ve been there before.
While I enjoyed the story, I couldn't help but feel that we needed to know more about Noah and Lucy's lives and relationship because a lot felt glossed over and I was left wanting more. The length of the story kind of limited how detailed we could go into their pasts relationship and the development of their current relationship. I think this kind of made it difficult to really connect with the characters at first.
If you're in the mood for a quick romance with a vibe that encompasses a quick and fun early 2000s rom-coms, this book is perfect. A big thank you to Lola Lockhart for inviting me to be part of your ARC team! All opinions shared are my own....more
Rahul Rahul Rahul. How I love you! If there are two things Talia Hibbert knows how to write its BANTER BANTER BANTER and a love**spoiler alert** 3.5⭐️
Rahul Rahul Rahul. How I love you! If there are two things Talia Hibbert knows how to write its BANTER BANTER BANTER and a love story that brings out the best in her characters, flaws and all.
Talia Hibbert really dives head first into Jasmine and Rahul’s lives, working between their past and present to reveal their relationship journey and the reasons behind their current situation. While the back-and-forth sometimes felt unnecessary, it built my connection to Jasmine and Rahul.
Of course, there’s only so much ‘will they won’t they’ one can take though, lol. At some point, I started feeling frustrated and thought “hurry up and just GET TOGETHER. What is the hold up!?”. But by the end, you really understand why their love needed to be a more gradual emotional progression before they could fully love each other the way they deserved. There really is a great emphasis on learning to love yourself in order to love the other person the way they need to be loved. While I felt like there was a bit of drag, I genuinely loved the ending and the character development that led to real understanding and a fresh start....more
This story was so cute! It had found family, star-crossed lovers, and a sweet romance. The characters were definitely the highlight for me - each one This story was so cute! It had found family, star-crossed lovers, and a sweet romance. The characters were definitely the highlight for me - each one had their own unique personality and spark, even the secondary characters. Zada and Charley were particularly memorable because they help emphasize and reiterate themes of self-discovery, emotional authenticity, and acceptance of love and differing perspectives.
While I really enjoyed the overall concept of gods, goddesses, the “other world” and supernatural beings hiding in plain sight, I felt that the fantasy elements overall could have been further explored and developed. The stakes didn't feel high or complex enough for me to fully invest in the story or a lot of the characters' decisions, which led to a slightly underwhelming climax. As someone who loves and reads predominantly YA books, I found the overall complexity and pacing to be a bit juvenile at times because of that.
Regardless, I really think that young adult readers will enjoy this book and find a lot of comfort in it. If I had read it in high school, I would have absolutely loved it. Overall, as my first F.T. Lukens book, it was a fun and cozy read, and I would definitely pick up another one of their books in the future!
Thank you NetGalley & publisher for providing me an advanced copy!...more
An absolute no-brainer 5 ⭐️ read! The story was filled with subtle, enjoyable details that were so fun, but at the same time, the maturity and the wayAn absolute no-brainer 5 ⭐️ read! The story was filled with subtle, enjoyable details that were so fun, but at the same time, the maturity and the way the conversations flowed made it feel realistic. While reading it felt like there was a coming-of-age movie playing in my mind, and I felt nostalgic the entire time. Vi's tough and hostile exterior honestly drew me in; her journey to embrace vulnerability was incredibly relatable. I loved her sass and realness, even though she definitely would’ve made me cry had I been on the other end of her words ...more
I wanted to love this book, so much. I went into it with high hopes, but honestly, it didn’t work for me the way I wanted it to. The overall vi2.5 ⭐️
I wanted to love this book, so much. I went into it with high hopes, but honestly, it didn’t work for me the way I wanted it to. The overall vibe was my biggest struggle. Fantasy can be heavy and intense, or it can be cozy and lighthearted, and both are great! But The Last Dragon of the East tried to do both at the same time, and it didn’t quite work. One minute there’s sarcasm and light banter, and then—BOOM—someone’s head gets chopped off and blood is flying everywhere. The characters also felt all over the place. One was supposed to be this supreme, all-powerful evil, and for a minute, it seemed like that was true… until he felt like just a regular dude. Another character was described as completely useless in combat, but somehow kept diving headfirst into fights and surviving against trained warriors. I just didn’t understand what the book wanted me to believe about them. And then there’s the language. I know this is a personal gripe, but when a story feels ancient or set in another era, I really don’t love it when the characters use modern curse words. It takes me right out of the world.
That being said, there were things I loved. Sai’s ability to see the strings of fate was such a cool concept, and I loved how it tied into his journey. The dragon legends and how they connected to the story were beautiful and emotional. I think what it comes down to is that I wanted something more consistent. There were areas that were strong, but the uneven tone, characters, and worldbuilding made it hard for me to stay engaged. I wish I could say I loved it, but this one just wasn’t for me.
Thank you NetGalley and SagaPress for providing me with an e-arc & and physical copy! All opinions shared are mine and mine alone....more
Such a classic and well-done enemies-to-lovers academic rivals love story! I was hooked from the start and couldn't put it down the more I read. I serSuch a classic and well-done enemies-to-lovers academic rivals love story! I was hooked from the start and couldn't put it down the more I read. I seriously had such a fun time throughout the entire story. I read most of it during an 8-hour car ride and had to literally contain my smiling, giggling, and almost crying as best I could lol. Wyn and Three’s banter was so fun and so very addictive. I highlighted almost everything they said and every interaction they had because it was just THAT good. Samantha Markum somehow created a couple that could hate each other, love each other, not stand each other, AND YET have so much sexual tension—all at once. I mean that tension was *chefs kiss*.
I commend Markum for including various heavy topics on top of the adorable love story. And, while I loved them and they didn’t diminish the overall storyline in any way, I felt they could’ve been better elaborated on or had a bit more closure to really make everything feel more cohesive. However, Wyn’s personal experience and growth were areas where I think Markum absolutely nailed it. Almost every time I read Wyn discuss her emotions, it felt like I was reading about my 17-year-old self. At times it felt like I was Wyn and Wyn was me. Wyn’s anxiety, insecurity, and growth felt so raw and real, reflecting how I, and many other women, have felt. I could physically feel my heart breaking when Wyn felt a certain way, said words she didn’t mean, felt mistreated, or negatively interpreted someone’s face or body language. She was by no means a perfect person, but that made her feel so much more real. She had her flaws, managed to grow in many areas, and reached out for support through her friends, therapy, and family.
I have to admit, I was unsure I’d like Three at first, but he surprisingly grew on me. Now, I can’t stop thinking about him (literally send help!)
I absolutely loved this story, and if I could, I’d read more and more stories about Three and Wyn or erase my memory and read this book all over again. I also think a story about Madison would be really cute!
Thank you NetGalley and publisher for providing me with an e-arc! All opinions shared are mine and mine alone. Love, Off the Record publishes June 11, 2024!...more
Honestly, I'm at a loss for words. I feel like I lack the literary intelligence to really analyze and voice what this book accomplished. All I can sayHonestly, I'm at a loss for words. I feel like I lack the literary intelligence to really analyze and voice what this book accomplished. All I can say is, it's unlike anything I've ever read before, and the satire was satiring. Because of its uniqueness, I had to give it 5-stars....more
The story's short and cute, but the beginning felt a little forced—stakes seemed low. It played out unnaturally, but once past that initial push, thinThe story's short and cute, but the beginning felt a little forced—stakes seemed low. It played out unnaturally, but once past that initial push, things flowed better.
Eliza's a complex character dealing with different expectations from others and herself. Despite her not being exactly likable because of her lie, I connected with her loneliness and fear of losing friends/those close to her. Anticipating it can be tough to express, but when it happens repeatedly, it leaves scars you didn’t know were there.
I related to Eliza in a lot of ways, and that emotional connection made certain parts really special. If the start felt more natural, it'd easily be a 5-star for me!...more
**spoiler alert** For a middle grades book, I thoroughly enjoyed the adventure and fantasy aspects of this story. While not super intense or detailed,**spoiler alert** For a middle grades book, I thoroughly enjoyed the adventure and fantasy aspects of this story. While not super intense or detailed, it was still interesting. Sai is a brave and smart 13-year-old who, despite her skills and maturity, is impressionable by those around her. These characteristics remind you that she IS just a child trying to make sense of her world. The portrayal of "negative" characters through Sai's eyes adds to this, revealing they’re all just young individuals putting on fronts in order to survive.. It's a subtle yet effective example of empathy by Soontornvat.
The pacing towards the end holds it back from a 5-star rating. The time-skips were fine, but the conclusion felt a bit rushed, leaning more towards telling than showing. Still, I genuinely enjoyed the story and characters. If I read this in middle school, I'd probably be obsessed!...more
Honestly, I have no thoughts. Did I enjoy the story? Kinda. Did I dislike all but two characters? Yes. Would I read it again? No. Was the formatting iHonestly, I have no thoughts. Did I enjoy the story? Kinda. Did I dislike all but two characters? Yes. Would I read it again? No. Was the formatting interesting? Yes. Would I read another book in this format? Probably not.
The story with its documentary-style script format was a bit of a challenge at first. After getting used to though it I felt like I was watching a reenactment of events in my mind. It was so interesting how my brain interpreted what I was reading. But, while it was neat to imagine each character's version of the story, the emotional depth was lacking for me. It felt somewhat one-dimensional, especially compared to the depth of emotions I experienced during "The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo." However, credit to Taylor Jenkins Reid for portraying diverse personalities and complexities using this documentary-style writing....more
Such a cute story. My heart was so happy reading this! Meredith and Wit made such an adorable couple. Mer's journey of self-disc4.5 ⭐️ but rounded up
Such a cute story. My heart was so happy reading this! Meredith and Wit made such an adorable couple. Mer's journey of self-discovery and learning to prioritize her loved ones, not just through Wit but also through her family, really stuck with me. The dynamic of a big family felt like home and made me love the book so much more! The game of assassin was so fun, and the writing made me feel like I was right there in the action. It might not be the most intense, complex, or emotional read, but that simplicity left me wanting to read more and more.
I dropped 0.5 points for some cringey moments in the book – love romance, but there's a line and it was crossed several times lol. Still, it's not all bad! There are plenty of other memorable scenes that kept me hooked! ...more
There’s just something so captivating with Abigail Hing Wen’s characters. They feel so personable and realistic. They go through problems I could see There’s just something so captivating with Abigail Hing Wen’s characters. They feel so personable and realistic. They go through problems I could see myself, my friends, or anyone going through. I find myself living through these characters.
Sophie, admittedly and deservedly, was not my favorite character in Loveboat Taipei, BUT, in Loveboat Reunion she becomes someone entirely new while still keeping the characteristics that make her, her. She discovers that you can fall in love and be interested in dating while also girl bossing in order to have the life you envision. I think this topic is relevant for women today especially with the new Barbie movie and the controversy surrounding the new Snow White movie. You can have both or one or neither and you’re still equally as badass.
Xavier was my favorite character in Loveboat Taipei and he continues to be my favorite in Loveboat Reunion. Maybe it’s that bad boy aura coupled with the fact he is just such a sweet heart. He is not a 2D male character/love interest, but someone who has such a complexity it’s hard for me to put it into words.
Loveboat Reunion is such an amazing experience. It’s more than a romance story, but a story about discovering your abilities and accepting yourself when the world seems to be against you....more