ivi_reads_books's reviews
299 reviews

How It Works Out by Myriam Lacroix

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Did not finish book. Stopped at 5%.
I found it gross and vulgar

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Hello Beautiful by Ann Napolitano

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dark emotional sad slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.5

This  slow-paced novel tells the story of a young man whose promising basketball career is cut short by a knee injury, leaving him adrift. Combined with a cold upbringing and lack of direction, he struggles to find his place in the world. His personal crisis sets off a chain of events that deeply affects his in-law family. 

At its heart, this book explores themes of family ties, sisterhood, loyalty, and betrayal.

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The Black Witch by Laurie Forest

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adventurous dark emotional mysterious sad medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A

3.75

A sheltered witch without powers ventures beyond her familiar world for the first time when she attends college. Through her experiences, the reader is introduced to a society rife with racism and prejudice. 

As she navigates complex power dynamics and hidden intrigues, she also forms unexpected friendships with her fellow students, deepening both her understanding of the world and her own place within it. The novel skillfully illustrates the transformative power of connection. 

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Everything, Everything by Nicola Yoon

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emotional funny fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A

3.25


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The Secret Book of Flora Lea by Patti Callahan Henry

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sad slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

2.5


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The Unhoneymooners by Christina Lauren

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emotional funny lighthearted medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.75

 A charming romance woven into a web of family dynamics, with just a hint of steam. 

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The Lion Women of Tehran by Marjan Kamali

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dark emotional informative sad
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A

3.75

This novel presents 20th-century Iranian history through the perspectives of two girls, and later women, who respond very differently to the political upheavals that shape their country. I found their complex friendship fascinating, and I learned a great deal about Iran’s history along the way. 

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The Stardust Grail by Yume Kitasei

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adventurous lighthearted medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? N/A
  • Strong character development? N/A
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.0

A quirky blend of academic intrigue and a thrilling space heist
I Have Some Questions for You by Rebecca Makkai

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dark emotional mysterious medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? N/A
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? N/A
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.0

This murder mystery is filled with unlikable characters, each driven by their own motivations. I enjoyed the ending which I didn't see coming. 

Julia Whelan, as always, delivers an excellent performance as the audiobook narrator. 

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A Face for Picasso: Coming of Age with Crouzon Syndrome by Ariel Henley

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emotional informative sad medium-paced

4.0

The author and her twin sister endured a lifetime of pain due to numerous surgeries necessary throughout their childhood and into adulthood. Alongside relentless bullying, the author shares how she eventually found a supportive community and came to terms with her appearance.

The narrative is interwoven with reflections on art, beauty, and symmetry, offering a deeper perspective on how we perceive beauty. 

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