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kassielovestoread's reviews
391 reviews
The Last Tale of the Flower Bride by Roshani Chokshi
dark
mysterious
sad
slow-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
3.0
I have conflicting thoughts on this book. On one hand it was beautifully written and had a very intriguing plot. The character's back stories were mysterious enough to want more of, even with the hints of tragedy. On the other, the execution of the plot was not great. The story is split between the bridegroom and Azure's perspectives; present and past. I thought the perspectives were well written and relevant to the story. But I think this book was simply too long for the big reveal. Mind you, this book is barely 300 pages. I think too much development dulled the impact of the plot climax. I can't help but wonder how much of an amazing premise this would've been had it been adapted into a short story instead. The conflicting feeling arises because while I liked the book, I didn't really like it. I guess a sort of straight down the middle rating would suffice. The beginning and the ending were interesting, the middle always felt like I was being interrupted while doing something important. Like when I was really into the bridegroom's pov, I was interrupted by the past with Azure's pov. Reverse, rinse, and repeat.
The Undermining of Twyla and Frank by Megan Bannen
adventurous
funny
hopeful
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
All together now: everyone say "thank you Ms. Bannen for another hit!!"
This was the friends-to-lovers book of my dreams. It has all the charm, wit and swoon worthy love from the first book, but soooo much better. The unique word building got an upgrade in this book, the author takes her time explaining Tanria in detail to paint the perfect picture. In book two of one of my favorite fantasy romance series ever, we get Frank and Twyla in the will they or won't they struggle. Frank and Twyla have a perfect friendship, they seem to really know each other in a way that suggests a strong foundation for years to come. That's why they're so hesitant to reach for something more; even though those feelings have been accumulating for years! The romance was a 10/10- I'm starting to understand that that's a given when it comes to this author!!
The writing style was as engaging and inviting as was everything else from this book. I can't believe I have to wait until July 2025 for book three! And even then, I sincerely hope there is more to tell from this amazing world.
This was the friends-to-lovers book of my dreams. It has all the charm, wit and swoon worthy love from the first book, but soooo much better. The unique word building got an upgrade in this book, the author takes her time explaining Tanria in detail to paint the perfect picture. In book two of one of my favorite fantasy romance series ever, we get Frank and Twyla in the will they or won't they struggle. Frank and Twyla have a perfect friendship, they seem to really know each other in a way that suggests a strong foundation for years to come. That's why they're so hesitant to reach for something more; even though those feelings have been accumulating for years! The romance was a 10/10- I'm starting to understand that that's a given when it comes to this author!!
The writing style was as engaging and inviting as was everything else from this book. I can't believe I have to wait until July 2025 for book three! And even then, I sincerely hope there is more to tell from this amazing world.
A Dark and Drowning Tide by Allison Saft
adventurous
dark
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
This was a good book! My favorite element was definitely the romance. Lorelei and Sylvia absolutely despise one another (or do they???) and the tension is evident to the extreme. They're academic rivals, they're from two different classes, and they're both investigating their mentor's murder. It was enough to keep me fully invested in this story all the way to its conclusion.
At its core, this story is mainly a murder mystery. If you don't love a who done it premise with magic intertwined, I'd skip this one. I thought the politics and magic system of this world were interesting, but they definitely needed more time to be fleshed out. This book could've benefitted from a glossary and a map for readers to reference. Often times I forgot who characters were and their relations to one another. The world building is kind of forced onto the reader, it wasn't integrated as seamlessly as I would've liked.
Like I said, this was a good book. Not a perfect read, for the reasons listed above. But a memorable one for the delicious sapphic romance. The devotion between Lorelei and Sylvia was palpable and I had to nearly stop myself from swooning at the beautiful prose they would bestow on each other. It was a gorgeous romance! I'd probably recommend it for that reason alone.
At its core, this story is mainly a murder mystery. If you don't love a who done it premise with magic intertwined, I'd skip this one. I thought the politics and magic system of this world were interesting, but they definitely needed more time to be fleshed out. This book could've benefitted from a glossary and a map for readers to reference. Often times I forgot who characters were and their relations to one another. The world building is kind of forced onto the reader, it wasn't integrated as seamlessly as I would've liked.
Like I said, this was a good book. Not a perfect read, for the reasons listed above. But a memorable one for the delicious sapphic romance. The devotion between Lorelei and Sylvia was palpable and I had to nearly stop myself from swooning at the beautiful prose they would bestow on each other. It was a gorgeous romance! I'd probably recommend it for that reason alone.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Antisemitism
Phantasma by Kaylie Smith
dark
mysterious
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
4.0
There is so much hype surrounding this book, I couldn't help it, I just had to find out what all the fuss was about. Safe to say, I totally get the hype! This book was fun as hell! Was it the greatest piece of literature to ever exist? No, but it's a good time nonetheless. There were a lot of plot twists that I found were genuinely entertaining. I didn't really foresee the big twist at the end; maybe because I wasn't really focused on the bigger plot and just enjoying the story for what it was. Who knows? Either way, I really liked this book.
I can't wait for book two!! There are a few loose ends from book one that I think were left that way on purpose to create a full circle moment for book two. I hope so!
I can't wait for book two!! There are a few loose ends from book one that I think were left that way on purpose to create a full circle moment for book two. I hope so!
An Education in Malice by S.T. Gibson
dark
mysterious
reflective
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25
There's something so evocative about S.T. Gibson's writing style. For lack of a better term or phrase, her writing style lulls me like no other. It''s so simple that I easily immerse myself within the words, but it's also so eloquently written that several times I had to underline sentences that stuck out to me.
I remember feeling so consumed by A Dowry Of Blood. I meant it when I said that book changed my life! And while An Education in Malice was very good, it doesn't quite measure up to the former. The characters were exquisite (minus Ms. D, you couldn't pay me to like her) and I genuinely enjoyed the story for what it was. There were times I blushed so fervently, LOL. The longing between Carmilla and Laura (mostly Laura, let's be honest) was so impactful. It was inevitable that they would eventually crash against each other- it was simply a matter of whether it would destroy them or not. The themes of religion and exploration of sexual awakening was interesting and well done. And finally, the connection this book has to A Dowry of Blood was above all my favorite. I loved revisiting one of my favorite characters from that book! If only we could have gotten the whole crew.
I think what was missing for me was perhaps a stronger plot. The characters are what define this story for sure and I think the author could've cut the Isis plot altogether in favor of a totally character led story about Carmilla, Laura and the unbearable Ms. D. Regardless, S.T. Gibson you have a forever fan on your hands! I'll read anything you write, including your to-do lists, LOL!
I remember feeling so consumed by A Dowry Of Blood. I meant it when I said that book changed my life! And while An Education in Malice was very good, it doesn't quite measure up to the former. The characters were exquisite (minus Ms. D, you couldn't pay me to like her) and I genuinely enjoyed the story for what it was. There were times I blushed so fervently, LOL. The longing between Carmilla and Laura (mostly Laura, let's be honest) was so impactful. It was inevitable that they would eventually crash against each other- it was simply a matter of whether it would destroy them or not. The themes of religion and exploration of sexual awakening was interesting and well done. And finally, the connection this book has to A Dowry of Blood was above all my favorite. I loved revisiting one of my favorite characters from that book! If only we could have gotten the whole crew.
I think what was missing for me was perhaps a stronger plot. The characters are what define this story for sure and I think the author could've cut the Isis plot altogether in favor of a totally character led story about Carmilla, Laura and the unbearable Ms. D. Regardless, S.T. Gibson you have a forever fan on your hands! I'll read anything you write, including your to-do lists, LOL!
A Fire Endless by Rebecca Ross
adventurous
dark
hopeful
mysterious
reflective
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Truth be told, I didn't want this book to ever end :(
Rebecca Ross had a hit on her hands when she wrote this duology! Everything about this novel was perfect- the conclusion to the mysterious Cadence was solved with not a loose thread in sight. The characters, the plot, the scenery, the magic system, the prose; it was all just *chef's kiss* It makes me really excited to dive into this author's backlog, including the incredibly popular Divine Rivals.
I can see these books developed as a two part season (or movie) through HBO or even Disney. In my opinion, the story is reminiscent of Game of Thrones in the sense that there's a land divided by centuries old grief and clashing clans determined to best one another. But to what end? Their mutual destruction is the only thing that seems guaranteed at the rate that they're going. Until two pairs of unlikely heroes manifest to create lasting change. Need I say more, Hollywood executives?? Get to producing!! (A shot in the dark but hey, a girl can dream)
Rebecca Ross had a hit on her hands when she wrote this duology! Everything about this novel was perfect- the conclusion to the mysterious Cadence was solved with not a loose thread in sight. The characters, the plot, the scenery, the magic system, the prose; it was all just *chef's kiss* It makes me really excited to dive into this author's backlog, including the incredibly popular Divine Rivals.
I can see these books developed as a two part season (or movie) through HBO or even Disney. In my opinion, the story is reminiscent of Game of Thrones in the sense that there's a land divided by centuries old grief and clashing clans determined to best one another. But to what end? Their mutual destruction is the only thing that seems guaranteed at the rate that they're going. Until two pairs of unlikely heroes manifest to create lasting change. Need I say more, Hollywood executives?? Get to producing!! (A shot in the dark but hey, a girl can dream)
A River Enchanted by Rebecca Ross
adventurous
mysterious
reflective
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Wow. What a phenomenal story. I was captivated from page one! Time passed so quickly while I read this book; I never needed to glance at a page and wonder when the chapter would end so I could mark my place and do something else. I was completely invested in the plot, the cast of characters, and the mysterious ailments that affect Cadence.
I don't get how people could call this a lighthearted or cozy read. This book does start with a simple enough exposition, with Jack returning to his home after being summoned by his clan leader. But what unravels after Jack's bittersweet homecoming is equal parts riveting and unpredictable. The imagery that the author describes certainly reveals a quaint magical land with deeply connected communities, however Cadence is on the brink of a civil war. Young girls are going missing left and right and seemingly no one is to blame and yet everyone is a suspect! There's so many secrets and betrayals intertwined in Cadence's foundation, I feared once the full truth is revealed it would cause so much internal and external strife that the land (and its people) won't be able to recover from. Every single POV the reader is introduced too has a part to play in unraveling the strings barely holding these secrets from the light. It all comes crashing in a gripping conclusion that had me literally using my hand to read line by line, lest I accidentally spoil myself by jumping ahead! I was overcome with so many emotions while reading this novel, it's a true wonder why I can't understand how this could be a lighthearted read for anyone, LOL.
Safe to say, I loved this book. Rebecca Ross is a true talent; all the hype surrounding this novel is appropriate. I'm so tempted to start A Fire Endless when I'm done with this review but I really want to just sit with this ending for a few hours before I venture forward. I can't wait!!
I don't get how people could call this a lighthearted or cozy read. This book does start with a simple enough exposition, with Jack returning to his home after being summoned by his clan leader. But what unravels after Jack's bittersweet homecoming is equal parts riveting and unpredictable. The imagery that the author describes certainly reveals a quaint magical land with deeply connected communities, however Cadence is on the brink of a civil war. Young girls are going missing left and right and seemingly no one is to blame and yet everyone is a suspect! There's so many secrets and betrayals intertwined in Cadence's foundation, I feared once the full truth is revealed it would cause so much internal and external strife that the land (and its people) won't be able to recover from. Every single POV the reader is introduced too has a part to play in unraveling the strings barely holding these secrets from the light. It all comes crashing in a gripping conclusion that had me literally using my hand to read line by line, lest I accidentally spoil myself by jumping ahead! I was overcome with so many emotions while reading this novel, it's a true wonder why I can't understand how this could be a lighthearted read for anyone, LOL.
Safe to say, I loved this book. Rebecca Ross is a true talent; all the hype surrounding this novel is appropriate. I'm so tempted to start A Fire Endless when I'm done with this review but I really want to just sit with this ending for a few hours before I venture forward. I can't wait!!
The Pumpkin Spice Café by Laurie Gilmore
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
2.5
This was an ok book. The only reason why (in my opinion, at least) it's trending right now is because of the cover; admittedly it is aesthetic for the fall season and I can definitely see why people are drawn to it. It was on sale for .99 cents and I had some digital credits from Amazon expiring, hence why I got it. However, I think the execution of the book leaves much to be desired. I didn't connect with the characters at all and I overall thought the story was very basic and kind of boring. I definitely won't read more from this series. I can't say I'd recommend it either, there's a lot of contemporary romance novels out there that are much better and can fit the fall vibe as well.
Where Sleeping Girls Lie by Faridah Àbíké-Íyímídé
dark
mysterious
reflective
sad
tense
slow-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? No
4.25
Truth be told, this was a very difficult read for me. The majority of this book is focused on unwinding the mysterious disappearance of Sade's roommate, Elizabeth. But what Sade inevitably uncovers is truly sickening and this is the sole focus of the last 25% of this novel. It's not just a well executed thriller novel that leaves me feeling so unsettled; it's the fact that this work of fiction is rooted deeply in truth. Somewhere right now, a vulnerable young person is being taking advantage of in an environment that's supposed to be safe and healthy. And it makes me sick to my stomach!
The ending of this book was extremely bittersweet. True justice was not achieved and although this is a work of fiction and therefore anything could happen, I understand why the author decided on a more realistic ending for the characters. Still, my heart is heavy with all the injustice Elizabeth, Jamila, April and countless unnamed victims in this story experienced. I would suggest to all to read the trigger warnings before reading and make sure you're in a good headspace for this book. It is worth it, but prioritize your mental wellbeing before diving in.
The ending of this book was extremely bittersweet. True justice was not achieved and although this is a work of fiction and therefore anything could happen, I understand why the author decided on a more realistic ending for the characters. Still, my heart is heavy with all the injustice Elizabeth, Jamila, April and countless unnamed victims in this story experienced. I would suggest to all to read the trigger warnings before reading and make sure you're in a good headspace for this book. It is worth it, but prioritize your mental wellbeing before diving in.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Animal death, Rape, Suicide, and Death of parent
Starling House by Alix E. Harrow
dark
mysterious
reflective
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
This book has a lot of elements similar to Gallant by V.E. Schwab and A Study in Drowning by Ava Reid. If you love sentient houses and the mysteries surrounding their inception, I would highly recommend Starling House.
Opal was our main character and she had the weight of the world on her shoulders. She lied, cheated, and stole just about anything and from anyone she could so she could provide a life for herself and her brother. She was dealt a shit ton of crappy cards, some would think "damn, this seems personal- how can one person take so much?" Despite that, it's up to Opal to right the wrongs and forge a new path with unlikely allies and mysterious dark magic threatening her town. I think Opal was interesting to read through her perspectives. Many times I questioned her allegiances and decisions, but just because I wouldn't have gone about it the way she had doesn't mean I don't respect the choices she had to make. She was a very multilayered fmc! I thought long and hard about her circumstances, which for me makes for an excellent read.
This was not a 5 star read for me; this book has its issues. I feel like pacing wise, it took a bit too long to get to the meat of the story. The beginning of the book kind of drags and I really had to push myself to get through it because I knew I'd enjoy the story overall. I also think this edition specifically could've chosen a bigger font size for the final copy! The words were so tiny, it was a bit difficult to read. I'd definitely suggest acquiring an e-book version of this book to read. All in all, I did enjoy the story. I was interested in the premise and seeing how Opal and Arthur would fix the curse that has plagued Eden for decades.
Opal was our main character and she had the weight of the world on her shoulders. She lied, cheated, and stole just about anything and from anyone she could so she could provide a life for herself and her brother. She was dealt a shit ton of crappy cards, some would think "damn, this seems personal- how can one person take so much?" Despite that, it's up to Opal to right the wrongs and forge a new path with unlikely allies and mysterious dark magic threatening her town. I think Opal was interesting to read through her perspectives. Many times I questioned her allegiances and decisions, but just because I wouldn't have gone about it the way she had doesn't mean I don't respect the choices she had to make. She was a very multilayered fmc! I thought long and hard about her circumstances, which for me makes for an excellent read.
This was not a 5 star read for me; this book has its issues. I feel like pacing wise, it took a bit too long to get to the meat of the story. The beginning of the book kind of drags and I really had to push myself to get through it because I knew I'd enjoy the story overall. I also think this edition specifically could've chosen a bigger font size for the final copy! The words were so tiny, it was a bit difficult to read. I'd definitely suggest acquiring an e-book version of this book to read. All in all, I did enjoy the story. I was interested in the premise and seeing how Opal and Arthur would fix the curse that has plagued Eden for decades.