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ivi_reads_books's reviews
298 reviews
How to Sleep at Night by Elizabeth Harris
emotional
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
I almost skipped How to Sleep at Night by Elizabeth Harris because of the intense political polarization we see in real life—but I’m so glad I gave it a chance. This book handles the topic with nuance and care.
The short chapters kept me hooked, and the characters feel incredibly real. You can’t help but empathize with their struggles as they navigate the tension between their personal beliefs and values, which often clash with those of their loved ones. At times, they even act against their own values, adding layers of complexity to the story.
A thoughtful and engaging read.
Thanks to William Morrow for an advance review copy of the book
Thanks to William Morrow for an advance review copy of the book
Content Warnings
Moderate: Alcoholism, Biphobia, Drug abuse, Homophobia, Infidelity, Lesbophobia, and Alcohol
Minor: Pregnancy
How to Tell When We Will Die: On Pain, Disability, and Doom by Johanna Hedva
Did not finish book. Stopped at 18%.
Did not finish book. Stopped at 18%.
Beautiful World, Where Are You by Sally Rooney
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
2.5
The Christmas Countdown by Holly Cassidy
emotional
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
The Christmas Countdown by Holly Cassidy is a festive read featuring a grumpy and lost female main character who’s pulled out of her slump by her loving sisters with an advent calendar which includes treats and activities.
While the story is very predictable and the villains lacked depth, the cute romance and delightful food references made it an enjoyable holiday read.
Content Warnings
Minor: Infidelity
Playground by Richard Powers
emotional
reflective
medium-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? It's complicated
3.0
Playground by Robert Powers is a multi-layered novel that weaves several seemingly unconnected storylines—though they all come together in the end.
While the themes of colonialism, privilege, uncertainty, gaming, AI, and conservancy are intriguing, the disconnected narratives made it hard for me to stay fully engaged.
The book also explores dementia as a chronic illness.
The book also explores dementia as a chronic illness.
That said, I really enjoyed the vivid descriptions of nature, which added a beautiful and grounding element to the story. If you’re into complex, thought-provoking reads, this one might be for you!
Content Warnings
Moderate: Chronic illness, Racism, and Colonisation
Annie Bot by Sierra Greer
emotional
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Annie Bot is a thought-provoking exploration of what happens when someone buys a human-like robot designed to cater to their every need—without seemingly having needs or desires of its own.
The story delves into the impact this has on the robot’s owner: How does it change his interactions with humans? What does it reveal about shame, betrayal, power imbalances, abuse, and choice?
This book raises deep, unsettling questions and offers a fascinating lens into the dynamics of power and morality. Definitely one that lingers long after you’ve finished reading.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Domestic abuse, Emotional abuse, and Infidelity
The Bone Houses by Emily Lloyd-Jones
dark
emotional
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.5
The Bone Houses by Emily Lloyd-Jones is a historical fantasy horror novel that beautifully explores grief, letting go of loved ones, and surviving in a rough world.
The story features chronic pain representation through a character coping with a shoulder injury, alongside zombies, sibling bonds, and a gripping tale of love and loss.
I especially appreciated how the book handled the complexities of grief and moving forward—it was heartfelt and poignant. If you love emotional depth mixed with eerie, atmospheric storytelling, this one’s a must-read!
Content Warnings
Moderate: Animal death, Child death, Chronic illness, Death, Violence, Grief, and Death of parent
32 Days in May by Betty Corrello
emotional
funny
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
32 Days in May by Betty Corello is a heartfelt and humorous story with a distinct voice that makes it stand out. The female lead is navigating life with lupus, choosing to keep her health issues private so she can savor moments of being treated like a healthy person—knowing full well she’ll pay for it later.
The male lead? A former TV actor who’s lost his way after years of not acting. Together, their story is equal parts sweet and raw, using humor to gloss over the heavier moments.
Bonus points for its love letter to the Jersey Shore and the NYC metro area!
If you’re into love stories with heart, grit, humor and chronic illness representation, this one’s for you.
Thanks to Avon and Netgalley for this advance review ecopy.
Thanks to Avon and Netgalley for this advance review ecopy.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Chronic illness
Moderate: Addiction and Alcohol
Minor: Suicidal thoughts
Excuse Me as I Kiss the Sky by Rudy Francisco
emotional
inspiring
medium-paced
4.0
Excuse Me as I Kiss the Sky is a beautiful blend of education and poetry. Each chapter starts with an introduction to a different type of poetry, making it super accessible for readers of all levels.
What stood out to me the most was how it treats emotions as people, bringing them to life in a unique and captivating way. It’s both a learning experience and an emotional journey.
If you’re looking to dip your toes into poetry or deepen your appreciation for it, this one is a must-read!
Dirty Diana by Shana Feste, Jen Besser
emotional
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
Dirty Diana dives into the life of a woman grappling with sexual frustration and disconnection in her marriage. Feeling disinterested and non-communicative with her husband, she finds herself fantasizing about her ex-boyfriend and the intimacy they once shared.
The story doesn’t fully explore her insecurities, leaving me wanting more depth. The open ending might not be for everyone, but the hilarious side characters definitely brought some charm!
Content Warnings
Moderate: Infidelity and Pregnancy