bookishdaylight's reviews
302 reviews

truly no words but I love this book and its characters and story.

 A wholesome read but after a few days, I literally forgot what happened in the book...

A dark thrilling tale of mysterious spooky creatures lurking at the sea that takes place in the 1913s. It is a story that involves the survival of the people on the island against mysterious forces. This concept of mythology is beautifully captured with the aspect of the story involving superstitions.

I was intrigued, enthralled, and entertained throughout the story. I liked this story's historical feel and truly enjoyed the concept of fear of the deep sea because I would be if it were dark and murky with mythological creatures in the ocean. I loved the family dynamics of Bridey which is full of fun, humor, and care. They were interesting characters in their relationship with one another. The visions of her mother are so interesting, I would've loved to learn more, but the realistic aspect of the unknown of those visions is on point since its setting is historical so I understand. The romance between Fynn and Bridey is heartwarming though the insta love is present and guessing on the time point maybe three to four months since the story takes place before and after summer.

All in all, I enjoyed this with its concept alone. I was captivated by the storyline of monsters lurking in the dark at sea. Tales like these are very interesting and entertaining.

It is a story that showcases a mystical slow-paced fantasy with the presence of political and religious beliefs. It is mostly focused on its dark atmospheric feel of alchemy and magic. It has this great balance between the plot, character dynamics, and the magical elements with a bit of intrigue.

A beautifully written story with its real depiction of the inner vulnerabilities and intimacy between the characters throughout the book. I was intrigued by the contrast between the narratives of the main characters and the kind of survival they had endured. The complexity of the deep-rooted hatred of the people and the actions both had to do to be invisible as well as be indifferent is so saddening.  I was rooting for them both to be well, safe, appreciated, and loved. 

Overall thoughts are that this proves YA Fantasy standalone can be greatly appreciated if done well and this was a cozy and comforting read.  I was fully emersed in the story itself and had a great time for the reason that I didn't want it to end. Sometimes standalones like these, I wished to be longer.

 4.75 stars

“How I love to lose to you. How I love to read your words and hear the thoughts that sharpen your mind. And how I would love to be on my knees before you now, surrendering to you and you alone.”

 This was beautifully written with its creation of worldbuilding and hint of magic as well as the characters themselves. This was both hopeful and sad with so much longing, fear, passion, angst, and warmth between Iris and Roman. The tension and anticipation throughout the book kept me on edge. 

I would simply rate this book 5 stars for the characters. The plot on the other hand would be 3 stars in the sequel although I can understand why it is the way it is since it is ya, nevertheless, there were some plotholes throughout the novel that makes you question some scenes.

Dacre, the god who is the antagonist in the story is such an interesting villain. I've learned more about him than Enva wherein he was crafted as someone who was wronged then taking vengeance on Enva the goddess who is nonpresent in the story which I'm still confused about. I would've loved to learn more about the gods, their powers, and their characters.

I felt unmoved in the ending and it lacked the beautiful part where everything falls into place.
I understand that there are only two books since this is the sequel but I wished it was longer. There were so many elements that needed to be discovered and explained. The reason why the first book was amazing is because of the slow pace of the story wherein it truly dives into the characters and the story itself. This one is good but again, I wish it was longer or this could have been a trilogy. 

 It was a cute and fun easy read. 

This is purely for aesthetics because the content is so bland. 

Two love interests who barely know each other and are already in love? Nope.
Where Sasha says "Write me a tragedy." I was barely halfway through like what do you mean?!
This is more on words and no action. There is no build-up with the worldbuilding and the hate feels one-sided. The witches only use their oldest child for more power and reign. I don't understand the grudge against one another. This was a letdown for me.

 I would've liked this if the children went against their parents, especially the oldest child since they were slaves doing their bidding.

This was a fast and thrilling read. I’ve read the some of the authors work so I’m quite familiar with the writing style.

Not your typical character driven and full of world building fantasy story since this is only a standalone. There were some lackluster moments and missing plot points but if you’re looking for a light read of fantasy then this is it.

I easily devoured reading the book with how fun and witty the story is. As someone who enjoys chess and loves the show The Queen’s Gambit. I thoroughly enjoyed this book in a whim. 

I’m kind of used to how Ali Hazelwood writes so it’s expected with her typically references which might seem a lot but doesn’t bother me since its ya.

The characters are very interesting and a bit refreshing to read in a new environment, especially the idea of them playing chess.

I feel like this might be my favorite from her work so far.