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ivi_reads_books's reviews
289 reviews
Love at First Book by Jenn McKinlay
emotional
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? N/A
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
2.5
Love at First Book was, unfortunately, not my cup of tea.
The story perpetuates the outdated trope that if a man is mean to you, it’s because he secretly likes you—and honestly, I thought we’d moved past that.
The female main character is deeply insecure, constantly worrying about her appearance and what others think of her. While this is explained by her overbearing mother, it didn’t translate into compelling storytelling for me.
That said, I did enjoy how the main characters helped an aging author finish her beloved book series and the clear love for books woven throughout the story.
I read this for a book club, but I wouldn’t recommend it overall.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Cancer, Chronic illness, Emotional abuse, and Death of parent
The Lost Apothecary by Sarah Penner
emotional
sad
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? N/A
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
2.5
The Lost Apothecary by Sarah Penner is a beautifully packaged novel with an absolutely stunning cover.
While the premise held promise, I found the characters lacked depth, and their actions often didn’t make much sense to me. The story leans more toward a description of events than a true mystery, which left me wanting more intrigue and connection.
The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon
dark
emotional
informative
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? N/A
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
4.75
The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon is a beautifully told historical novel that transports readers to 18th-century Massachusetts through the eyes of a midwife.
The story offers a rich glimpse into the lives of women, mothers, families, and even criminals, while also exploring the fragile and often unjust justice system of the time.
The nature writing is stunning, with a deep connection to the land and animals woven into every page.
One side character experiences frequent migraines—though the condition had no name back then, and relief was limited to basic pain medication. It highlights just how isolating and misunderstood chronic illness could be in those times.
If you love historical fiction with layered storytelling, atmospheric writing, and a focus on women’s lives, this is a must-read.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Misogyny, Rape, Sexual assault, and Sexual violence
Moderate: Child death, Death, Genocide, Infidelity, Racism, Sexism, Slavery, Violence, Medical content, Grief, Murder, Sexual harassment, War, and Injury/Injury detail
Minor: Chronic illness and Infertility
Anatomy of Desire: Five Secrets to Create Connection and Cultivate Passion by Dr. Emily Jamea
informative
inspiring
medium-paced
3.75
Anatomy of Desire is an insightful guide to building deeper intimacy and rediscovering passion in relationships.
This book dives into:
✨ How to get into flow during intimacy
✨ Creating an environment that fosters connection
✨ Communicating your needs and desires openly
✨ Finding the balance between control and vulnerability
✨ Experiencing awe and being fully present
✨ Embracing sensuality in everyday moments
It also beautifully explores intimacy as an escape—a refuge from the stresses of daily life or the challenges of chronic illness and pain.
If you’re looking to strengthen emotional and physical connections, this is an enlightening and practical read.
This book dives into:
✨ How to get into flow during intimacy
✨ Creating an environment that fosters connection
✨ Communicating your needs and desires openly
✨ Finding the balance between control and vulnerability
✨ Experiencing awe and being fully present
✨ Embracing sensuality in everyday moments
It also beautifully explores intimacy as an escape—a refuge from the stresses of daily life or the challenges of chronic illness and pain.
If you’re looking to strengthen emotional and physical connections, this is an enlightening and practical read.
Iron Widow by Xiran Jay Zhao
emotional
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.25
If I had to summarize Iron Widow in one word, it would be rage!
This YA sci-fi blends futuristic mechas (think giant battling robots) with historical elements like foot binding and the systemic suppression of women. In this world, male and female pilots team up to steer these robots—but the male pilot can sacrifice the female if needed. So yes, there’s plenty to be angry about.
The female main character, who had her feet bound at a young age, experiences chronic pain and occasionally relies on a wheelchair. While there’s a love triangle, it’s quite tame, and the book leans heavily into its raw, emotional core.
I wished for more nuance, maturity, and backstory for the characters, but I’m hopeful the sequel (coming December 24, 2024) will deliver!
If you love fierce female leads and stories dripping with justified fury, this one’s for you.
This YA sci-fi blends futuristic mechas (think giant battling robots) with historical elements like foot binding and the systemic suppression of women. In this world, male and female pilots team up to steer these robots—but the male pilot can sacrifice the female if needed. So yes, there’s plenty to be angry about.
The female main character, who had her feet bound at a young age, experiences chronic pain and occasionally relies on a wheelchair. While there’s a love triangle, it’s quite tame, and the book leans heavily into its raw, emotional core.
I wished for more nuance, maturity, and backstory for the characters, but I’m hopeful the sequel (coming December 24, 2024) will deliver!
If you love fierce female leads and stories dripping with justified fury, this one’s for you.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Addiction, Alcoholism, Child abuse, Chronic illness, Misogyny, Violence, Blood, Murder, Alcohol, War, and Injury/Injury detail
Moderate: Violence and Classism
Shark Heart: A Love Story by Emily Habeck
Did not finish book. Stopped at 15%.
Did not finish book. Stopped at 15%.
Weird but not my kind of weird
When the Angels Left the Old Country by Sacha Lamb
emotional
funny
mysterious
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
3.5
When Angels Left the Old Country by Sacha Lamb is an utterly charming story about a demon and an angel teaming up to find a Jewish girl who emigrated from a small shtetl in Russia to NYC. Set in the pre-WWI era, their journey is filled with mystery, friendship, and unexpected twists.
The demon, who has a physical disability and is quite short, cleverly uses these traits to their advantage. The book beautifully portrays the immigrant experience, Judaism, and the bonds of friendship while also touching on themes of anti-Semitism.
A heartwarming and thought-provoking read that’s as endearing as it is meaningful.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Antisemitism and Death of parent
Minor: Confinement and Violence
How to Winter: Harness Your Mindset to Thrive on Cold, Dark, or Difficult Days by Kari Leibowitz
informative
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
medium-paced
4.5
How to Winter by Kari Leibowitz rekindled my love for the colder months. It’s a refreshing perspective on embracing winter and making the most of it.
While winters in the northern regions are notoriously tough the book encourages focusing on what winter offers that summer can’t: quiet, stillness, and cozy opportunities to slow down.
With tips on staying warm and prepared, it’s not just a guide for surviving the season—it also offers wisdom that can help weather any other storms life might throw at us.
Highly recommend for anyone who dreads the cold!
Highly recommend for anyone who dreads the cold!
Not in My Book by Katie Holt
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
4.75
Not in My Book by Katie Holt is a delight for book lovers! I absolutely loved the witty banter and the clever way books are woven into the story.
The main characters grow closer through heartfelt, bookish exchanges that add a unique and intimate touch to their relationship. Oh, and it’s definitely spicy!
Content Warnings
Minor: Death of parent