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7th Time Loop: The Villainess Enjoys a Carefree Life Married to Her Worst Enemy! (Manga) Vol. 4 by Touko Amekawa
adventurous
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.5
I am such a sucker for isekai romances, and 7th Time Loop scratches that itch perfectly! Honestly, I’ve read at least 20 variations of this genre, and while this series doesn’t break the mold, it’s still as charming and delightful as ever.
Volume 4 brings more sweet and wholesome moments, and Rishe and Arnold continue to deliver peak adorable couple energy. The scene where Rishe blatantly exposed herself by wanting a gem the exact color of Arnold’s eyes—RIGHT in front of him—had me blushing and giggling 🤭. It’s impossible not to root for these two; their chemistry is just so precious!
That said, while I adore the fluff and heartwarming moments, the plot can feel predictable at times. It’s a cozy read, but it doesn’t necessarily stand out from other isekai romances. Still, if you’re here for sweet vibes and lovable characters, this volume delivers exactly what you need. I’m looking forward to seeing where Rishe and Arnold’s story goes next!
7th Time Loop: The Villainess Enjoys a Carefree Life Married to Her Worst Enemy! (Manga) Vol. 3 by Touko Amekawa
adventurous
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.5
This volume delivers enough intrigue, heartfelt moments, and character growth to keep you hooked. Fans of the series will appreciate the deepening bond between Rishe and Arnold and the exploration of Arnold's past. It’s another solid entry in a story that continues to charm with its unique premise and lovable cast.
Horror Movie by Paul Tremblay
The story unfolds through a mixed-media format that blends a screenplay, found footage transcripts, and the narrator's perspective, all while jumping back and forth between past and present. While this approach sounds creative, it can feel disjointed at times. The narrative trickles out in bits and pieces, slowly revealing the history of a supposedly cursed film. The premise is fascinating: only three scenes from the original movie were ever released, yet they generated a massive cult following. Adding to the intrigue, everyone involved in the film’s production, except the narrator—known as the "Thin Kid"—has died, fueling the legend of the "cursed film."
Despite the promise of this setup, the execution fell flat for me. My reading experience was interrupted a few times, which made it harder to get fully immersed, but the real issue lies in the story itself. While the moments of filming and the "Big Reveal" at the end provide brief spikes of excitement, the journey to get there is slow and underwhelming. The final reveal, unfortunately, doesn’t deliver the punch it seems to be building toward, leaving the climax feeling lackluster and unsatisfying.
This was my first book by Paul Tremblay, and while I appreciated the originality of the concept, the pacing and payoff didn’t land for me. I might give his other works a try in the future, but this one didn’t quite hit the mark.
dark
mysterious
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.0
I went into Horror Movie without knowing much about it beyond its intriguing tagline: "cursed found footage." That alone was enough to pique my interest, and I didn’t dive too deeply into the rest of the synopsis. Fair warning: this book might not be what you’re expecting, and it’s definitely a “what the actual hell” kind of novel.
The story unfolds through a mixed-media format that blends a screenplay, found footage transcripts, and the narrator's perspective, all while jumping back and forth between past and present. While this approach sounds creative, it can feel disjointed at times. The narrative trickles out in bits and pieces, slowly revealing the history of a supposedly cursed film. The premise is fascinating: only three scenes from the original movie were ever released, yet they generated a massive cult following. Adding to the intrigue, everyone involved in the film’s production, except the narrator—known as the "Thin Kid"—has died, fueling the legend of the "cursed film."
Despite the promise of this setup, the execution fell flat for me. My reading experience was interrupted a few times, which made it harder to get fully immersed, but the real issue lies in the story itself. While the moments of filming and the "Big Reveal" at the end provide brief spikes of excitement, the journey to get there is slow and underwhelming. The final reveal, unfortunately, doesn’t deliver the punch it seems to be building toward, leaving the climax feeling lackluster and unsatisfying.
This was my first book by Paul Tremblay, and while I appreciated the originality of the concept, the pacing and payoff didn’t land for me. I might give his other works a try in the future, but this one didn’t quite hit the mark.
Thornhedge by T. Kingfisher
What sets Thornhedge apart is Kingfisher’s ability to explore the intricacies and subtleties of fairy tale logic. The fae, as always, are enigmatic and their words hold deeper, often hidden meanings. The tension between what is promised and what is truly meant is central to the plot, adding layers of complexity to the story. The narrative shifts between the present and the past, gradually unraveling how Toadling came to be involved with the "sleeper" and leading to a satisfying, though not overly surprising, conclusion.
Despite the originality and unique world-building, I found myself not entirely gripped by the story. While I appreciated the clever retelling and the deeper exploration of fae lore, the pacing felt a bit slow at times, and I never felt fully immersed in the plot. It’s a solid read, but not one I found hard to put down. Nevertheless, Thornhedge is an enjoyable, whimsical story with a refreshing take on familiar tropes, and I’d still recommend it to fans of Kingfisher’s work or anyone looking for a new twist on fairy tales.
dark
mysterious
fast-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? Yes
4.0
T. Kingfisher has a rare talent for crafting fairy tale retellings that not only capture the magic of the originals but also breathe new life into them. Thornhedge is no exception, offering a fresh and unique perspective on familiar themes. This novella introduces Toadling, a gentle and kind fairy who is stolen from her home shortly after birth and raised by water creatures in the mystical realm of the fae. Her life takes an unexpected turn when a fae creature asks her to return to her father's house and bestow a blessing of protection on a newborn child.
What sets Thornhedge apart is Kingfisher’s ability to explore the intricacies and subtleties of fairy tale logic. The fae, as always, are enigmatic and their words hold deeper, often hidden meanings. The tension between what is promised and what is truly meant is central to the plot, adding layers of complexity to the story. The narrative shifts between the present and the past, gradually unraveling how Toadling came to be involved with the "sleeper" and leading to a satisfying, though not overly surprising, conclusion.
Despite the originality and unique world-building, I found myself not entirely gripped by the story. While I appreciated the clever retelling and the deeper exploration of fae lore, the pacing felt a bit slow at times, and I never felt fully immersed in the plot. It’s a solid read, but not one I found hard to put down. Nevertheless, Thornhedge is an enjoyable, whimsical story with a refreshing take on familiar tropes, and I’d still recommend it to fans of Kingfisher’s work or anyone looking for a new twist on fairy tales.
That's Not My Name by Megan Lally
This story had me hooked, wondering what was around each corner, and by the end, I was truly in tears (not the dignified kind either—I’m talking full ugly crying). Lally’s characters are unforgettable: there’s one you’ll love, and others you’ll absolutely despise. But beyond the gripping storyline, this book shines a light on the tragic reality of police tunnel vision. So many innocent people find themselves ensnared in the justice system, paying the price for crimes they didn’t commit, simply because authorities become fixated on a particular theory and ignore any evidence that contradicts it. Lally doesn’t just write a thriller; she raises an issue that resonates in our society and leaves you thinking long after the last page.
Congrats to Megan Lally on an impressive debut! I hope she has a long and successful career, and if she continues writing stories like this, I’m absolutely here for it.
dark
emotional
mysterious
sad
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
If you’re on the fence about this book, GET IT! That’s Not My Name is one of those rare finds that grips you from the first page and doesn’t let go until the very end. Recommended by so many people in my psychological thriller Facebook group, this book came with high expectations—and it delivered on every front. Lally’s writing is excellent, drawing you deep into a raw, thought-provoking, and emotionally charged story.
This story had me hooked, wondering what was around each corner, and by the end, I was truly in tears (not the dignified kind either—I’m talking full ugly crying). Lally’s characters are unforgettable: there’s one you’ll love, and others you’ll absolutely despise. But beyond the gripping storyline, this book shines a light on the tragic reality of police tunnel vision. So many innocent people find themselves ensnared in the justice system, paying the price for crimes they didn’t commit, simply because authorities become fixated on a particular theory and ignore any evidence that contradicts it. Lally doesn’t just write a thriller; she raises an issue that resonates in our society and leaves you thinking long after the last page.
Congrats to Megan Lally on an impressive debut! I hope she has a long and successful career, and if she continues writing stories like this, I’m absolutely here for it.
Bury Your Gays by Chuck Tingle
The characters are what really make this book shine. Misha, Tara, and Zeke are all wonderfully complex, and Tingle’s characterization has you second-guessing everyone’s motives. Despite their flaws, I found myself deeply invested in their arcs, especially during the emotional flashbacks that add depth and richness to the story. These flashbacks were tough to sit through at times, but they grounded the novel and gave it an emotional weight that elevated the plot.
Tingle doesn't shy away from diving into social commentary, particularly on the role of AI in film and television production and the insatiable greed of corporate powers. He’s not subtle about these themes, but his direct approach is part of what makes this book so impactful and thought-provoking. His unapologetic critique of these topics is refreshing, and his take on the state of the entertainment industry is both timely and unsettling.
The representation of LGBTQ+ characters and themes was another standout. I loved how the gay characters were woven into the story, and the undertones and explicit representation felt authentic and natural. This book is a celebration of queerness, but it also tackles the darker side of the industry, which made the narrative all the more compelling.
dark
mysterious
tense
medium-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? It's complicated
4.5
I went into Bury Your Gays with a completely different set of expectations—perhaps a juicy Hollywood exposé—but what I discovered was something far richer and more multifaceted. Chuck Tingle delivers not only the satire I anticipated but also an unexpected blend of horror, comedy, sci-fi, and sharp social commentary. The story is layered with dark humor and unexpected twists, making it impossible to predict where it’s headed.
The characters are what really make this book shine. Misha, Tara, and Zeke are all wonderfully complex, and Tingle’s characterization has you second-guessing everyone’s motives. Despite their flaws, I found myself deeply invested in their arcs, especially during the emotional flashbacks that add depth and richness to the story. These flashbacks were tough to sit through at times, but they grounded the novel and gave it an emotional weight that elevated the plot.
Tingle doesn't shy away from diving into social commentary, particularly on the role of AI in film and television production and the insatiable greed of corporate powers. He’s not subtle about these themes, but his direct approach is part of what makes this book so impactful and thought-provoking. His unapologetic critique of these topics is refreshing, and his take on the state of the entertainment industry is both timely and unsettling.
The representation of LGBTQ+ characters and themes was another standout. I loved how the gay characters were woven into the story, and the undertones and explicit representation felt authentic and natural. This book is a celebration of queerness, but it also tackles the darker side of the industry, which made the narrative all the more compelling.
The audiobook adaptation is stellar. André Santana's narration brings the story to life with clear, distinct voices that suit the characters beautifully. His pacing and emotional delivery enhance the experience. Additionally, the multicast portions featuring renowned speculative fiction authors and past Tingle collaborators add an exciting dimension to the production.
Bury Your Gays is a standout novel that offers much more than meets the eye. It’s sharp, heartfelt, and utterly unique, blending genres and commentary into a memorable, impactful narrative. Whether you read or listen, this book is sure to leave an impression. Highly recommended!
Inuyasha, Vol. 1 by Rumiko Takahashi
The artwork is stunning, showcasing Rumiko Takahashi’s incredible talent and capturing the essence of the feudal era fantasy world. It felt like rediscovering a cherished memory but with new facets to explore. The characters, the humor, the action, and that iconic love-hate dynamic between Inuyasha and Kagome—it’s all as amazing as I remember.
Reading this volume was like stepping back in time, reliving the magic of this epic journey through the Sacred Jewel's shards. I can't wait to continue reading and experience the series from this new perspective. For longtime fans and newcomers alike, this manga is a must-read, perfectly blending nostalgia with timeless storytelling.
If you're a fan of Inuyasha, do yourself a favor and pick up the manga—you won’t regret it.
adventurous
funny
fast-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? It's complicated
5.0
As someone who considers Inuyasha their favorite anime, diving into the manga for the first time was an absolute treat. This volume brought back all the nostalgia, hitting me right in the childhood. It's the same beloved stories I remember from the show.
The artwork is stunning, showcasing Rumiko Takahashi’s incredible talent and capturing the essence of the feudal era fantasy world. It felt like rediscovering a cherished memory but with new facets to explore. The characters, the humor, the action, and that iconic love-hate dynamic between Inuyasha and Kagome—it’s all as amazing as I remember.
Reading this volume was like stepping back in time, reliving the magic of this epic journey through the Sacred Jewel's shards. I can't wait to continue reading and experience the series from this new perspective. For longtime fans and newcomers alike, this manga is a must-read, perfectly blending nostalgia with timeless storytelling.
If you're a fan of Inuyasha, do yourself a favor and pick up the manga—you won’t regret it.
The Guy She Was Interested in Wasn't a Guy at All, Vol. 1 by Sumiko Arai
The artwork is absolutely stunning, with a unique style that perfectly complements the story's tone. One of my favorite aspects is the green coloring used in the English edition, which matches the original Japanese version. The fact that some pages are colored adds an extra layer of beauty and makes this physical copy a treasure. I deeply appreciate the effort to maintain the green color scheme, even with the added expense—it really elevates the reading experience.
As someone who has followed this manga since its early days as a Twitter comic, finally holding a physical English copy feels surreal and exciting. The themes of falling in love with someone different from yourself and navigating your own identity are handled with such care and thoughtfulness. I wish this had been available when I was a teenager—it’s the kind of story that would have resonated deeply with me then, as it does now.
This manga is a gem, blending a sweet romance with meaningful exploration of individuality and connection. It’s heartwarming to see how far it has come, and I can’t wait to see where it goes next. Highly recommended for fans of Yuri and anyone who loves a beautifully crafted love story!
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
I absolutely adored this manga! It’s a delightful Yuri story that captures the magic of discovering love and self-identity in such an honest and heartfelt way. The storyline is charming, and the two main characters are incredibly relatable and adorable. Their journey feels genuine, and I found myself rooting for them from the very beginning.
The artwork is absolutely stunning, with a unique style that perfectly complements the story's tone. One of my favorite aspects is the green coloring used in the English edition, which matches the original Japanese version. The fact that some pages are colored adds an extra layer of beauty and makes this physical copy a treasure. I deeply appreciate the effort to maintain the green color scheme, even with the added expense—it really elevates the reading experience.
As someone who has followed this manga since its early days as a Twitter comic, finally holding a physical English copy feels surreal and exciting. The themes of falling in love with someone different from yourself and navigating your own identity are handled with such care and thoughtfulness. I wish this had been available when I was a teenager—it’s the kind of story that would have resonated deeply with me then, as it does now.
This manga is a gem, blending a sweet romance with meaningful exploration of individuality and connection. It’s heartwarming to see how far it has come, and I can’t wait to see where it goes next. Highly recommended for fans of Yuri and anyone who loves a beautifully crafted love story!
Nothing But Blackened Teeth by Cassandra Khaw
To start with some positives, the inclusion of yokai and Japanese folklore adds an intriguing layer to the story. The ghost bride and the mansion’s eerie history had incredible potential to create a haunting atmosphere. Sadly, that’s where the praise stops.
The novella suffers from weak execution on almost every front. Clocking in at just over 100 pages, there isn’t enough room to develop the plot or its characters. The five friends at the center of the story are flat, unlikable, and ultimately forgettable. With so little depth given to their relationships or personalities, I felt no connection to any of them, making it hard to care about their fates.
The pacing is another major flaw. The story drags its feet for much of the book, only to rush through the climax in a way that felt abrupt and unsatisfying. Instead of being enveloped in the terror of the mansion and its ghostly inhabitant, I was left feeling detached and underwhelmed.
This novella should have been unsettling, especially given the setting and folklore it draws from. But instead of evoking fear or unease, it left me frustrated at the squandered potential. Nothing But Blackened Teeth had all the right ingredients for a creepy, memorable horror story, but it’s let down by poor pacing, shallow characters, and a lack of true scares.
The cover deserves a standing ovation. The story behind it? A disappointed sigh.
dark
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? N/A
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
2.0
Sometimes, you can judge a book by its cover—and in this case, it’s the cover that sets you up for disappointment. Cassandra Khaw’s Nothing But Blackened Teeth boasts one of the most striking and haunting covers I’ve seen in recent memory. It was the sole reason I picked up this novella, and paired with a promising premise—a wedding among friends in a haunted Japanese mansion—it seemed like a surefire horror hit. Unfortunately, the story inside doesn’t live up to the chilling visuals outside.
To start with some positives, the inclusion of yokai and Japanese folklore adds an intriguing layer to the story. The ghost bride and the mansion’s eerie history had incredible potential to create a haunting atmosphere. Sadly, that’s where the praise stops.
The novella suffers from weak execution on almost every front. Clocking in at just over 100 pages, there isn’t enough room to develop the plot or its characters. The five friends at the center of the story are flat, unlikable, and ultimately forgettable. With so little depth given to their relationships or personalities, I felt no connection to any of them, making it hard to care about their fates.
The pacing is another major flaw. The story drags its feet for much of the book, only to rush through the climax in a way that felt abrupt and unsatisfying. Instead of being enveloped in the terror of the mansion and its ghostly inhabitant, I was left feeling detached and underwhelmed.
This novella should have been unsettling, especially given the setting and folklore it draws from. But instead of evoking fear or unease, it left me frustrated at the squandered potential. Nothing But Blackened Teeth had all the right ingredients for a creepy, memorable horror story, but it’s let down by poor pacing, shallow characters, and a lack of true scares.
The cover deserves a standing ovation. The story behind it? A disappointed sigh.
Me (Moth) by Amber McBride
The story intricately blends Hoodoo and Indigenous spirituality, a combination that adds layers of depth and resonance to the narrative. I was captivated by the way these elements were interwoven, offering a spiritual and cultural richness that felt fresh and intriguing.
I stumbled across this book by chance and am so thankful I did. It’s unlike anything I’ve ever read. The unique format of a novel in verse and the lyrical prose make it stand out, but it’s the emotional weight of the story and the way it’s delivered that makes it unforgettable.
The twist at the end is unexpected and completely reshapes the story in a way that is both surprising and profoundly moving. It’s one of those endings that lingers in your mind long after you’ve turned the last page, leaving you marveling at the brilliance of its execution.
This is a story that stays with you, a haunting, poetic journey that explores love, loss, identity, and healing in a way that only Amber McBride can. I cannot recommend it enough.
emotional
reflective
sad
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Hauntingly beautiful, Me (Moth) is an unforgettable novel in verse that left me breathless. Amber McBride's poetry is stunningly crafted, weaving a story that feels both deeply personal and universal. Every verse feels intentional, each word chosen with care, creating a rhythm that pulls you in and refuses to let go.
The story intricately blends Hoodoo and Indigenous spirituality, a combination that adds layers of depth and resonance to the narrative. I was captivated by the way these elements were interwoven, offering a spiritual and cultural richness that felt fresh and intriguing.
I stumbled across this book by chance and am so thankful I did. It’s unlike anything I’ve ever read. The unique format of a novel in verse and the lyrical prose make it stand out, but it’s the emotional weight of the story and the way it’s delivered that makes it unforgettable.
The twist at the end is unexpected and completely reshapes the story in a way that is both surprising and profoundly moving. It’s one of those endings that lingers in your mind long after you’ve turned the last page, leaving you marveling at the brilliance of its execution.
This is a story that stays with you, a haunting, poetic journey that explores love, loss, identity, and healing in a way that only Amber McBride can. I cannot recommend it enough.