Scan barcode
moonlightjuju's reviews
110 reviews
The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
Remember LOVING this series growing up but it was way to fast-paced for be reading as an adult and too cheesy.
The Stolen Heir by Holly Black
adventurous
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
It's not as entertaining as its Mother Series, but still. pretty good read. It is hard for me to give a full 4/5 stars for most series books I read since it is still world-building. I love this series because of the blend between the real world and the fantasy world. Even though The Stolen Heir was not THAT GOOD, it's a two-part series so I might as well finish it. I am not in a rush to be getting into Book 2, but will at some point of the year.
Ash Princess by Laura Sebastian
adventurous
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- 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
Not bad, but I won't be continuing with the series. Foreshadowing wasn't that good and everything was very predictable. The love triangle that seems to be forming seems boring. Like i said before the foreshadowing is a strong give aways of what will happen, no surprising plot twist - the only reason why i didn't put it down was that it wasn't THAT BAD but def not something I would reread again.
Kingdom of Ash by Sarah J. Maas
adventurous
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? Yes
5.0
Great build up and had me tearing up during many parts, thus my reasoning for 5 stars, however once again Sarah strips away female characters of any powers they have. The fact that she took all of Aelin's powers to the point that she can only make a spark was CRAZY for me and seems to be an ongoing thing with her (I mean just look at Nesta) adding on to this Sarah just chose to hand out princess and queen titles to EVERYONE in the end like what???? My problem with ACOTAR is that she had to make every character a couple and she did the same thing with TOG. I was happy with how Dorian and M ended with their relationship still developing, however Choal and Y was not what I wanted at all, PLUS making her pregnant ????? like what - I also did not like how Aelin's create was taken from her due to Y healing all the demons out of everyone - like yes saving the world was a team effort but Aelin and Manon have given up the MOST out of everyone like bffr. Chaol is still cringy and having to say my wife" all the time made me ick so bad. I was not expecting the 13 to get KILLED but that's another rant for another review
Norse Mythology by Neil Gaiman
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Neil Gaiman has once again proven his mastery of storytelling with "Norse Mythology" in audiobook form. As a devoted fan of Gaiman's audios, I couldn't resist diving into this captivating journey through Norse mythology. Each tale comes to life with Gaiman's enchanting narration, making it a truly immersive experience. 🌟
Exploring the rich tapestry of Norse myths has been an enlightening and enjoyable experience. Gaiman's deep dive into these ancient stories showcases his meticulous research and deep respect for the source material. It's evident that he has poured his heart and soul into bringing these tales to a modern audience, and his efforts shine through in every chapter. 💫
What sets Gaiman apart is his ability to capture the essence of these myths—the humor, the absurdity, the pathos, and the grandeur. His narration adds an extra layer of pleasure, as his skill as an oral storyteller is unmatched. It's as if he's sitting by the fire, regaling listeners with tales of gods and giants, weaving a spell that transports us to another realm. 📖🔮
Listening to "Norse Mythology" feels like embarking on a journey through time and space, guided by the masterful voice of Neil Gaiman himself. Whether you're a mythology enthusiast or simply enjoy a good story, this audiobook is sure to captivate and delight. 🌌
In conclusion, "Norse Mythology" in audiobook form earns a solid four-star rating from me. It's a must-listen for anyone who appreciates the power of storytelling and the allure of ancient myths. 🌿
#BookReview #NorseMythology #NeilGaiman #Audiobook #Mythology #Storytelling #Bookish #Bookworm #Fantasy #Mythical #AudiobookLovers #Bookstagram #ReadingCommunity #MustListen #MythologyLovers #Enchanting #LegendaryReads
adventurous
4.0
📚 Book Review: "Norse Mythology" by Neil Gaiman (Audiobook) 🎧
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Neil Gaiman has once again proven his mastery of storytelling with "Norse Mythology" in audiobook form. As a devoted fan of Gaiman's audios, I couldn't resist diving into this captivating journey through Norse mythology. Each tale comes to life with Gaiman's enchanting narration, making it a truly immersive experience. 🌟
Exploring the rich tapestry of Norse myths has been an enlightening and enjoyable experience. Gaiman's deep dive into these ancient stories showcases his meticulous research and deep respect for the source material. It's evident that he has poured his heart and soul into bringing these tales to a modern audience, and his efforts shine through in every chapter. 💫
What sets Gaiman apart is his ability to capture the essence of these myths—the humor, the absurdity, the pathos, and the grandeur. His narration adds an extra layer of pleasure, as his skill as an oral storyteller is unmatched. It's as if he's sitting by the fire, regaling listeners with tales of gods and giants, weaving a spell that transports us to another realm. 📖🔮
Listening to "Norse Mythology" feels like embarking on a journey through time and space, guided by the masterful voice of Neil Gaiman himself. Whether you're a mythology enthusiast or simply enjoy a good story, this audiobook is sure to captivate and delight. 🌌
In conclusion, "Norse Mythology" in audiobook form earns a solid four-star rating from me. It's a must-listen for anyone who appreciates the power of storytelling and the allure of ancient myths. 🌿
#BookReview #NorseMythology #NeilGaiman #Audiobook #Mythology #Storytelling #Bookish #Bookworm #Fantasy #Mythical #AudiobookLovers #Bookstagram #ReadingCommunity #MustListen #MythologyLovers #Enchanting #LegendaryReads
The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman
I dove into "The Graveyard Book" audiobook yesterday, and I emerged today with a heart full of wonder and a five-star rating in tow. Neil Gaiman's enchanting tale kept me captivated from start to finish, weaving a spellbinding narrative that felt like a warm embrace. 🌟
From the very beginning, I was drawn into this world of mystery and magic. Gaiman's storytelling is so beautifully endearing that I knew I was in for a treat. As I journeyed alongside Nobody Owens, affectionately known as Bod, I found myself deeply invested in his growth and adventures. 📖
What I adored most was how the story came full circle, allowing me to witness Bod's evolution from a curious child to a courageous young man. Each character, from the ghosts to the living, won my heart with their unique quirks and wisdom. But it was Bod himself who stole the show—my sweet little potato pie, as I affectionately dubbed him. His kindness and intelligence were truly admirable, yet it was his hint of vengefulness that added depth to his character—a trait that I surprisingly found myself drawn to. 💖
The graveyard's inhabitants, with their colorful personalities and poignant life advice, added layers of richness to the narrative. I delighted in every tale from their past lives, each one contributing to the tapestry of Bod's upbringing. 👻🌿
"The Graveyard Book" is not just a story; it's an experience—a journey that will stay with me long after the final chapter. Neil Gaiman's masterful prose and the impeccable narration in the audiobook form breathed life into this tale, making it an absolute delight to immerse myself in. 🎙️
In conclusion, if Neil Gaiman were to pen another novel centered around Nobody Owens, I would eagerly devour it without hesitation. "The Graveyard Book" has firmly secured its place as one of my all-time favorites, earning a well-deserved five-star rating and a permanent spot on my bookshelf. 📚
#BookReview #TheGraveyardBook #NeilGaiman #Audiobook #Bookworm #Bookstagram #ReadingCommunity #FantasyBooks #BookLovers #MustRead #MagicalReads
dark
emotional
funny
mysterious
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? Yes
5.0
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I dove into "The Graveyard Book" audiobook yesterday, and I emerged today with a heart full of wonder and a five-star rating in tow. Neil Gaiman's enchanting tale kept me captivated from start to finish, weaving a spellbinding narrative that felt like a warm embrace. 🌟
From the very beginning, I was drawn into this world of mystery and magic. Gaiman's storytelling is so beautifully endearing that I knew I was in for a treat. As I journeyed alongside Nobody Owens, affectionately known as Bod, I found myself deeply invested in his growth and adventures. 📖
What I adored most was how the story came full circle, allowing me to witness Bod's evolution from a curious child to a courageous young man. Each character, from the ghosts to the living, won my heart with their unique quirks and wisdom. But it was Bod himself who stole the show—my sweet little potato pie, as I affectionately dubbed him. His kindness and intelligence were truly admirable, yet it was his hint of vengefulness that added depth to his character—a trait that I surprisingly found myself drawn to. 💖
The graveyard's inhabitants, with their colorful personalities and poignant life advice, added layers of richness to the narrative. I delighted in every tale from their past lives, each one contributing to the tapestry of Bod's upbringing. 👻🌿
"The Graveyard Book" is not just a story; it's an experience—a journey that will stay with me long after the final chapter. Neil Gaiman's masterful prose and the impeccable narration in the audiobook form breathed life into this tale, making it an absolute delight to immerse myself in. 🎙️
In conclusion, if Neil Gaiman were to pen another novel centered around Nobody Owens, I would eagerly devour it without hesitation. "The Graveyard Book" has firmly secured its place as one of my all-time favorites, earning a well-deserved five-star rating and a permanent spot on my bookshelf. 📚
#BookReview #TheGraveyardBook #NeilGaiman #Audiobook #Bookworm #Bookstagram #ReadingCommunity #FantasyBooks #BookLovers #MustRead #MagicalReads
Content Warnings
Graphic: Suicide, Stalking, Death of parent, and Murder
Yellowface by R.F. Kuang
dark
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
Really loved the story - until the end. It was a really interesting take on a failing writer stealing the work of a peer who happens to DIE from eating a pancake. I like the racial take it took, thus the name "Yellowface" and the colonization of an Asian author's work. My only thing was the ending seemed...wack?? I don't know how to put it, but it could have been a strong 5 stars for me, but the ending made the book a 3. It seemed rushed and needed. being stalked by an old co-worker and then jumped/filmed confessing because you think it's your "friend's" ghost just was HORRIBLE writing and a horrible way of wrapping up the book
Mexican Gothic by Silvia Moreno-Garcia
Firstly, I longed for more depth into the character of Catalina, the cousin at the center of the tale. While glimpses of her backstory and personality were provided through flashbacks and Noemí's commentary, they proved insufficient. Strengthening the narrative could have been achieved through dual perspectives, offering insights from both Catalina and Noemí or by dedicating several chapters—perhaps 5 to 10— to Catalina's experiences post-marriage, leading up to her pivotal letter to Noemí.
Additionally, greater insight into Francis would have enhanced comprehension surrounding his motivations, particularly concerning hisbetrayal of his mother . While Noemí's burgeoning feelings for him were evident, his own sentiments remained unclear. Did he reciprocate her affection, or was there another driving force behind his actions?
Overall, "Mexican Gothic" delivers a captivating narrative with echoes of classic literature, but the potential for deeper character exploration leaves room for improvement.
dark
mysterious
tense
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? Yes
4.0
"Mexican Gothic" presents a compelling narrative reminiscent of Edgar Allan Poe's "The Fall of the House of Usher" (although I have not seen many make this connection) albeit set in Mexico and intertwined with underlying race issues. Throughout the story, the gripping plot held my attention, although it received a rating of 4 stars due to certain areas that left me wishing for further exploration.
Firstly, I longed for more depth into the character of Catalina, the cousin at the center of the tale. While glimpses of her backstory and personality were provided through flashbacks and Noemí's commentary, they proved insufficient. Strengthening the narrative could have been achieved through dual perspectives, offering insights from both Catalina and Noemí or by dedicating several chapters—perhaps 5 to 10— to Catalina's experiences post-marriage, leading up to her pivotal letter to Noemí.
Additionally, greater insight into Francis would have enhanced comprehension surrounding his motivations, particularly concerning his
Overall, "Mexican Gothic" delivers a captivating narrative with echoes of classic literature, but the potential for deeper character exploration leaves room for improvement.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Body horror, Confinement, Death, Emotional abuse, Gore, Incest, Misogyny, Physical abuse, Racism, Sexism, Sexual assault, Sexual violence, Suicide, Violence, Xenophobia, Stalking, Murder, Fire/Fire injury, Gaslighting, Sexual harassment, and Colonisation
Marie-Antoinette: The Making of a French Queen by John Hardman
informative
reflective
3.5
Very informative and I did enjoy the read. I studied the French Revolution and culture intensely from 2014-2020, but somehow never came across this book. This book focuses on Marie-Antoinette and her involvement in French politics and the large role she began to play in it. You can tell a lot of research went into this, with records and letters from key players being explored. The only reason why I do not give it a higher rating is because there were some points where Hardman just would repeat what was already stated a few chapters before, and it did become repetitive. Overall, this is a book that I wish I had when completing my undergrad European classes as it is full of information and evidence.