librarianlayla's reviews
937 reviews

Crowned a Traitor by Kate Callaghan

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3.0

I received an eARC through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

A Supernatural-esque world with the heir to the throne of Hell, who doesn't want her birthright. Angels, demons, creatures and fae all intermingled in one story sounded right up my alley! However, unfortunately, it fell a little short for me.

I felt that the story seemed a little rushed and out of sync at times, I really wanted there to be more from the characters as a whole. Particularly Klara, I wanted to feel for her journey. There are some really good nuggets in the rough, I liked her attitude and wit, she had some really good sassy one liners, but I just wanted to feel more for her as a character given the trials she faces. The romance seemed a little patchy and unnecessary.

A really good idea though on the whole, and has so much potential, I just needed more from it.
Delicates by Brenna Thummler

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5.0

I received an eARC through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Trigger warning to those who may be affected by themes of bullying and suicidal thoughts, these are themes within this graphic novel.

Delicates is poignant, heartfelt and filled with an important message.

I loved this one even more than I loved Sheets, it really hits home with it's underlying message of acceptance and tolerance. I could not put this down, it really hit home and left me feeling so much. I adored it from start to finish and I hope that we may be blessed with more stories in the future of Marjorie, Wendell and Eliza in the future.

Don't Be Afraid to Drop : A Picture Book About Growth Mindset and Trying Something New by Julia Cook, Anna Laura Sullivan;Anna Laura Sullivan

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5.0

I received an eARC through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

A delightful and beautifully illustrated little book highlighting the importance of change.

It's illustrations help to tell the story of acceptance and change that will assist young readers in understanding that change is a factor in life but it isn't always a bad thing.
The Copper Gauntlet by Cassandra Clare, Holly Black

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4.0

The dark intrigue continues.

I love this series so much so far. Morally gray characters, dark destinies and emotional conflict make this series difficult to put down. Lovers of magical schools and mysteries will love this series.
The Bronze Key by Holly Black

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5.0

The series continues with more fast paced action, hurtful accusations and turmoil for the three friends.

Deception lies deep within this book and Call's journey is fraught with danger, in this latest installment his inner turmoil is explored further and some huge reveals are in store for the reader.

Fans of magical schools, murders and mystery might be drawn to this series.
Unnamed Memory, Vol. 1 (light novel): The Witch of the Azure Moon and the Cursed Prince by Kuji Furumiya

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4.0

I received an eARC through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

A dark and action packed light novel centering on a Prince's quest to break the curse that has been placed upon him and an all powerful witch who aims to help him through their shared contract. Witty as well as intriguing - this story had a level of murder mystery to it as well as general magic quest. I enjoyed the characters and the story, the writing at times became a little repetitive but overall I enjoyed it.
Ruin and Rising by Leigh Bardugo

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3.0

3/3.5 stars.

I had really high hopes for this series but I mostly found the characters to be a little bland and they left me feeling nothing. However, the latter half of this book did pick up, and held a lot more emotion and depth.

Overall the series isn't awful, it just didn't live up to the hype for me. I wanted more, had I read this when it first came out - I probably would have been more in love - however I just felt it lacking in areas.
Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo

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4.0

4/4.5 stars.

I enjoyed this book far more than I did the Shadow and Bone Trilogy.

I found the characters more interesting and had more depth to them. I felt the storyline was more gripping and held my interest, there were lulls, but overall I enjoyed the heist and the little tidbits of information regarding the characters backgrounds.
Crooked Kingdom by Leigh Bardugo

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5.0

4.5 stars.

I enjoyed the character development in this and the high stakes thrill of the game. Parts of the ending caught me off guard which I really appreciated as I love it when I don't know what's coming. Overall a really good cat and mouse joy ride filled with touching moments.