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916 reviews
Blasfamous by Mirka Andolfo
dark
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
Blasfamous by Mirka Andolfo is a bold and visually striking graphic novel that blends horror, satire, and dark comedy into a wild critique of celebrity culture.
Set in a world where fame is akin to divinity, the story follows Clelia, a reigning pop goddess whose stardom is threatened by a mysterious newcomer. With the help of her demonic agent, Father Lev, Clelia fights to maintain her status in a cutthroat industry where losing followers is more than just a career setback.
Blasfamous is a thought - provoking read : the graphic novel blends supernatural elements with a biting commentary on the entertainment industry. It tackles themes of power, corruption, and religious iconography in ways that may push some readers out of their comfort zones. Mirka Andolfo’s art is truly mesmerizing. I loved the illustrations, but had several WTF moments while reading this graphic novel. It is visually extremely violent, which works very well with the horrific world that Mirka Andolfo imagined.
That Friend by Sabrina Brier
funny
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
Sabrina Brier’s That Friend is a witty and relatable audiobook that explores modern female friendships, social media fame, and self-discovery. Following an aspiring influencer whose advice podcast gains traction while her personal life crumbles, the story blends humor with emotional depth.
With a dynamic full-cast narration, the audiobook brings its characters to life with energy and authenticity. I really enjoyed this funny and light story… once past my antipathy for the main character.
The Rules of Fortune: A Novel by Danielle Prescod
emotional
reflective
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
The Carter family is preparing for the 70th birthday celebration of their billionaire patriarch, William Carter, at their Martha’s Vineyard estate. However, before the event can take place, William unexpectedly dies, setting off a chain of revelations that expose dark secrets about the origins of the family’s wealth.
Danielle Prescod’s The Rules of Fortune takes readers on a journey through time, spanning from the 1960s to the 2010s. Through the perspectives of four key members of the Carter family—William, Jacqueline, Asher, and Kennedy—the novel explores a world shaped by privilege and social hierarchy, where family loyalty often clashes with personal identity.
Beyond the intricacies of family drama, the novel also engages with broader societal themes, sparking discussions on capitalism, privilege, and racial identity. I found The Rules of Fortune deeply engaging and intriguing. The tension builds as the different protagonists make decisions that lead to the epitome of the novel, the death of William Carter. With its rich layers of mystery, family conflict, and social commentary, this novel is an intriguing and thought-provoking read.
Falling in Love with a Traveling Cat: Mofusand's 1st Illustration Book! by Juno, Mofusand
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
Cuteness Overload ! Truly adorable, Falling in Love with a Traveling Cat takes the reader on a journey throughout Japan. Cats are everywhere in this graphic novel, as they explore regions and foods.
I am in love with this book ! The illustrations are just the sweetest thing ! I really enjoyed how educational this graphic novel is. With a few words and plenty of illustrations, I learned a lot about Japanese culture.
Carving Shadows into Gold by Brigid Kemmerer
Directly continuing the story from Forging Silver into Stars, Carving Shadows into Gold was an incredible read. I absolutely adored the first book and wasn’t disappointed by the second installment in the series. The narrative continues to follow the intertwined lives of Tycho, Jax, and Callyn as they navigate a kingdom fraught with dangerous magic, political intrigue, and personal challenges.
Tycho, now the King's Courier, finds himself bound by a perilous bargain to Nakiis, a magical scraver. His journey is one of self-discovery, as he grapples with past traumas and the unpredictable nature of his own magic. Jax, having left his former life in Briarlock, faces unexpected challenges and adversaries in Emberfall, pushing him to confront his past and redefine his identity. Callyn, previously a critic of the royal family and their magic, now stands beside the Queen, grappling with newfound powers and the complexities of court life. Her internal struggle revolves around trust, especially concerning Alek, a man she once loved but now views with suspicion.
I thoroughly enjoyed how the story delves deeply into questions of loyalty and trust, and how these bonds are tested in the face of fear and uncertainty. Brigid Kemmerer balances beautifully action-driven plotlines with introspective character development. I loved the evolution of the characters, which were not only compelling but sometimes unexpected. Carving Shadows into Gold was a fantastic read, and I cannot wait for Book 3!
adventurous
emotional
inspiring
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? Yes
5.0
Directly continuing the story from Forging Silver into Stars, Carving Shadows into Gold was an incredible read. I absolutely adored the first book and wasn’t disappointed by the second installment in the series. The narrative continues to follow the intertwined lives of Tycho, Jax, and Callyn as they navigate a kingdom fraught with dangerous magic, political intrigue, and personal challenges.
Tycho, now the King's Courier, finds himself bound by a perilous bargain to Nakiis, a magical scraver. His journey is one of self-discovery, as he grapples with past traumas and the unpredictable nature of his own magic. Jax, having left his former life in Briarlock, faces unexpected challenges and adversaries in Emberfall, pushing him to confront his past and redefine his identity. Callyn, previously a critic of the royal family and their magic, now stands beside the Queen, grappling with newfound powers and the complexities of court life. Her internal struggle revolves around trust, especially concerning Alek, a man she once loved but now views with suspicion.
I thoroughly enjoyed how the story delves deeply into questions of loyalty and trust, and how these bonds are tested in the face of fear and uncertainty. Brigid Kemmerer balances beautifully action-driven plotlines with introspective character development. I loved the evolution of the characters, which were not only compelling but sometimes unexpected. Carving Shadows into Gold was a fantastic read, and I cannot wait for Book 3!
Goodnight Teddy Bear: Picture Book for Children by Kimberly Bennet
4.0
Goodnight, Teddy Pear is a charming boardbook following Teddy Pear, a soft and cuddly bear, as it goes through its evening routine. Each page takes young readers through the little steps of winding down : saying goodnight to toys, blankets, and even the stars in the sky. The story's soothing cadence and repetitive phrasing make it perfect for bedtime reading. With gentle and soft colors, Mirko Filippi’s illustrations bring a sense of security to his young readers, reassuring them that there is nothing to fear in the dark, as they, like Teddy Pear, are surrounded by warmth and care.
Goodnight, Teddy Pear is an unexpected and fun read. I greatly enjoyed the rhyming story that will surely make young readers giggle.
The King Arthur Case: A Brittany Mystery by Jean-Luc Bannalec, Jean-Luc Bannalec
5.0
Commissaire Dupin is having a summer field with his team in Brocéliande for a few days, but the holiday turns rapidly into a murder investigation as the body of a renowned historian is discovered. Before long, there are more victims and the mystery grows as to why all the Arthurian specialists are being killed.
Commissaire Dupin is a very interesting character, as well as his team members, especially Nolwenn, a talented woman.
The King Arthur Case is a classical mystery and detective story. It is the seventh adventure of Commissaire Dupin in Brittany. Do not be concerned if you did not read the other books. I didn’t either and it did not stop me from plainly enjoying this book. This novel takes place in the forest of Paimpont, better known as Brocéliande. If you are an Arthurian legend lover like me, you will totally enjoy this book. Jean-Luc Bannalec explores in his story every important site linked to the Legend and the Briton lore : Val Sans Retour, Chapelle du Graal, Fontaine de Barenton, Tombeau de Merlin, Château de Comper, where the Centre Arthurien is situated. From having been over there several times myself I found all the descriptions quite accurate and it was pure joy to visit them again in the story.
I was able to discover this book thanks to Goodreads Giveaways. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
Commissaire Dupin is a very interesting character, as well as his team members, especially Nolwenn, a talented woman.
The King Arthur Case is a classical mystery and detective story. It is the seventh adventure of Commissaire Dupin in Brittany. Do not be concerned if you did not read the other books. I didn’t either and it did not stop me from plainly enjoying this book. This novel takes place in the forest of Paimpont, better known as Brocéliande. If you are an Arthurian legend lover like me, you will totally enjoy this book. Jean-Luc Bannalec explores in his story every important site linked to the Legend and the Briton lore : Val Sans Retour, Chapelle du Graal, Fontaine de Barenton, Tombeau de Merlin, Château de Comper, where the Centre Arthurien is situated. From having been over there several times myself I found all the descriptions quite accurate and it was pure joy to visit them again in the story.
I was able to discover this book thanks to Goodreads Giveaways. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
Chickenology: The Ultimate Encyclopedia by Francesco Giubbilini, Barbara Sandri
5.0
Chickenology is an encyclopedia full of interesting and fun facts about chickens. The content is organized around five main topics : Discovering the world of chickens, what’s a chicken made of ? The egg up close, chickens and humans and a world of chickens breeds. We learn everything about breeds, what happens in the egg when the hen is brooding, what the inside of a chicken looks like, or how a chicken can help you in the garden.
I really think that book is great for children, and adult readers will enjoy it as well. I did learn a few things myself. The illustrations are very cute and colorful, but show a lot of interesting details as well.
I really think that book is great for children, and adult readers will enjoy it as well. I did learn a few things myself. The illustrations are very cute and colorful, but show a lot of interesting details as well.
Constance Verity Destroys the Universe by A. Lee Martinez
4.0
Constance Verity has a job : protect the universe against various and innumerable evil forces. But that job is endangered by the news that she may be responsible for the end of it.
Constance Verity is a young woman with a totally insane life : between fighting aliens, zombies, robots, or vampires, she has little time left to enjoy a simple life with her fiancé Byron. Constance is a very funny and strong character, who I really enjoyed discovering the adventures of. Even if this book is the third of a series, it was quite easy to follow and a very enjoyable read. I do think I will dig into the two other books at some point to have a full view of her crazy adventures.
The secondary characters are also quite lovable : the best friend Tia and her ninja husband Hiro, Malady the mad scientist, and all the crazy neighbors. It is a collection of amazing colorful characters that populate the book. It was also my first A. Lee Martinez book. I love his writing style. It is very humorous and I love how he mixes science fiction, fantasy and mystery elements.
I was able to discover this book thanks to Goodreads Giveaways. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
Constance Verity is a young woman with a totally insane life : between fighting aliens, zombies, robots, or vampires, she has little time left to enjoy a simple life with her fiancé Byron. Constance is a very funny and strong character, who I really enjoyed discovering the adventures of. Even if this book is the third of a series, it was quite easy to follow and a very enjoyable read. I do think I will dig into the two other books at some point to have a full view of her crazy adventures.
The secondary characters are also quite lovable : the best friend Tia and her ninja husband Hiro, Malady the mad scientist, and all the crazy neighbors. It is a collection of amazing colorful characters that populate the book. It was also my first A. Lee Martinez book. I love his writing style. It is very humorous and I love how he mixes science fiction, fantasy and mystery elements.
I was able to discover this book thanks to Goodreads Giveaways. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.