natlbugz's reviews
378 reviews

Hidden Pictures by Jason Rekulak

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dark mysterious tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.75

Do not get this book in audiobook format—trust me on this one. The real creepiness lies in the physical copy, with the creepy kid drawings that elevate the entire story. Without them, I’d have been sitting here giving it a low 3 stars. 

Hidden Pictures hooked me. The pacing is spot-on. It’s fast, gripping, and just unsettling enough to keep you reading into the late hours, trying to figure out what the fck is going on. Mallory is a flawed but compelling main character, and her journey is emotional and messy in a way that feels real. Plus, the mix of supernatural with psychological thriller is executed beautifully. 
 
But seriously—those drawings. I loved how Rekulak used them to ramp up the tension and make you second-guess what’s real and what’s imagined. Without them, the story wouldn’t have hit nearly as hard. They make the creep factor skyrocket, and every time a new one appeared, I found myself bracing for impact. It was a clever, unique element that really set this book apart. 
 
Now, what kept it from hitting 5 stars? Some of the plot points were a bit predictable. There were twists I could see coming from miles away, and a few supernatural moments required some serious suspension of disbelief. But even with that, I couldn’t put it down. 
 
TLDR: Hidden Pictures is the kind of supernatural mystery that doesn’t demand too much but delivers plenty of thrills. If you want to experience it properly, though, pick up a physical copy. You don’t want to miss out on the art—it's where the real magic is.
Martyr! by Kaveh Akbar

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emotional reflective sad slow-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

This was an unexpected gem for me—ambitious, disjointed, and messy in a way that almost feels intentional, which is exactly what makes it work. Martyr! isn’t a novel you read for a neat, linear storyline. It’s a kaleidoscope of fragmented lives and timelines, all circling the central character, Cyrus Shams, a poet with severe imposter syndrome trying to figure out what it means to live a meaningful life (or die a meaningful death). It’s chaotic, but somehow, it fits beautifully. 
 
"We are all products of our histories, whether we choose to embrace them or not."

Thematically, Akbar dives deep into grief, martyrdom, and the search for meaning in life’s randomness. Cyrus is an orphan, recovering from multiple addictions, and has made it his mission to write about martyrdom, in part to make sense of his mother’s tragic death. The way Akbar intertwines Cyrus’s personal journey with snippets of family history—like his mother’s death in the downing of Iran Air Flight 655—adds layers of weight and tragedy, making you feel Cyrus’s obsession with finding meaning in the chaos. 
 
But here’s where things get complicated: the narrative doesn’t follow a straightforward path. It jumps between timelines, perspectives, hallucinations, and surreal moments, sometimes losing momentum along the way. At times, I found myself wishing for a stronger through line to hold it all together, but I also feel like that disjointedness might have been the point. It mirrors how fragmented life can feel when you’re lost, searching for something to anchor you. 
 
Akbar's writing is undeniably beautiful, with metaphors that surprise you and moments of wit that catch you off guard. He brings in Iranian poets, bisexual love, existential musings, and even some hallucinatory conversations with Trump and Lisa Simpson (because why not?). It’s over the top, for sure, but there’s a playfulness in how he tackles such heavy themes. 
 
It’s flawed—definitely. But it’s also bold, imaginative, and deeply human in its exploration of meaning and the stories we tell ourselves to make sense of tragedy. If you like your novels neat and orderly, this one might frustrate you, but if you’re in the mood for something eccentric and full of heart, Martyr! is worth the ride. 
 
TLDR; It’s a beautifully messy novel that sometimes gets lost in itself but in the best way possible. Perfect if you’re into books that make you think and feel, even if they don’t always make sense.
The Bee Sting by Paul Murray

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dark emotional reflective tense slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

Paul Murray’s The Bee Sting is one of those books that gets under your skin in the best possible way. It dives deep into the minds of its characters, exposing the raw, messy reality of a family crumbling under the weight of their secrets, their traumas, and their own failures to communicate. The layered complexity of each character feels so real, it’s almost uncomfortable. But that discomfort is what makes it so captivating.

This isn’t your typical family drama—The Bee Sting is darker, more chaotic, and pulls no punches. Dickie’s unraveling is painful to watch, Imelda’s past is far more tragic than it initially seems, and the kids? They’re dealing with their own inner storms, all while the family is falling apart. The writing digs into each character’s psyche in a way that feels uncomfortably honest, like you’re seeing the parts of them they’d rather hide.

Murray weaves their individual stories into something larger, creating a slow-burn tension that you can’t shake. And just when you think you know where it’s going, the ending delivers a punch that’ll leave you reeling. Without giving anything away, let’s just say it’s one of those revelations that changes everything you thought you knew. You’ll sit there, staring at the last page, wondering how you missed it coming.

The themes of failure, regret, and how we hurt the ones we love the most run deep here. It’s a book about the messiness of life, the weight of unspoken truths, and how the past has a way of bleeding into the present, whether we want it to or not.

Bottom line: The Bee Sting is not an easy read, but it’s the kind of story that sticks with you. Dark, dysfunctional, and devastating in all the best ways. If you’re up for an emotional rollercoaster, this one’s worth the ride.
My Murder by Katie Williams

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dark emotional mysterious tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • 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

I went into this ready for a cool premise about clones & murder, but what I got was a mind-bending, genre-bending surprise that totally hooked me. Imagine being murdered, then brought back to life, only to investigate your own death. The layers here are wild.

Overall Thoughts:
This book is so much more than a thriller or a mystery. It’s speculative fiction at its finest, with major Black Mirror vibes. The exploration of cloning and identity makes you question everything. And it's not just about who killed Lou—it’s about why, and what it means to live with that knowledge after being brought back.

Lou is such a relatable character, and I loved how Williams played with her voice. The deadpan humor and introspective tone had me flipping through this one fast. Also, the cast of clone-mates? Creepy and oddly touching.

The social commentary here?? On motherhood, womanhood, and society’s obsession with perfection? Loved it. It’s so subtle, but it sticks with you.

Themes Explored:
Identity and Autonomy: - This book goes DEEP into what it means to have control over your own life—or death. Lou’s journey to reclaim her narrative is fascinating.

Death and Rebirth: - This is more than just a murder mystery; it’s about the idea of being reborn and whether you can truly escape your past, even if you get a second chance at life.

Technology and Ethics: - The ethical questions this book raises about cloning and playing God? So thought-provoking. It really asks: how far are we willing to go for “second chances”?

Overall Messaging:
This novel is a brilliant mix of sci-fi, thriller, and introspective drama. It’s for anyone who loves books that leave you questioning the big “what ifs” in life. It’s twisty but meaningful, and I’m I feel like I'm going to be thinking about it for days to come.

My Only Negative:
Okay, so the pacing was a bit uneven in parts. The middle drags slightly, but the last 50 pages more than make up for it with a twist I didn’t see coming!

Bottom line: "My Murder" is a clever, eerie, and introspective read that deserves a spot on your shelf, especially if you’re into speculative fiction with a psychological edge. 
The Bullet That Missed by Richard Osman

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adventurous funny lighthearted mysterious reflective fast-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? No

4.75

I went into The Thursday Murder Club series expecting a cozy, light read, and I walked away completely charmed. Finished the 1st three books in 11 days, lol. They just make me so happy! Richard Osman has done it again, my #1 cosy escapism books. 
 
Overall Thoughts: 
 
•The four main characters – Elizabeth, Joyce, Ibrahim, and Ron – are honestly one of the best ensembles I’ve ever read. They’re witty, lovable, and each brings such a unique perspective. It’s like catching up with old friends every time. 
•Cozy mystery vibes all the way. There’s a murder to solve, but it’s handled with so much warmth and humor that it feels more like a charming detective show than a tense thriller. The pacing is smooth, and the stakes are just right. 
•The banter! I live for the humor in these books. It’s dry, clever, and often delightfully unexpected. My boyfriend is a Brit so the humor makes it that much better for me as a reader. Every conversation had me smiling or laughing—especially between Elizabeth & Joyce. 
 
Themes Explored: 
 
Friendship and Aging: These characters may be in their 70s and 80s, but they’re full of life and intelligence. Osman handles their relationships and reflections on life in a way that’s both heartwarming and thought-provoking. 
 
Escapism: This series is the perfect escape. It pulls you into a world where mysteries are solved over tea and lifelong friendships take center stage. It’s charming and leaves you feeling better after reading. 
 
Overall Messaging: 
 
•This book is pure joy. It’s not overly complicated or heavy, and that’s what makes it perfect. It’s a celebration of friendships, aging gracefully, and the small moments that make life worth living. 
 
This book is everything I wanted: cozy, clever, and full of charm. It’s the kind of series I’ll return to whenever I need a bit of joy in my life. OSMAN SUPREMACY ♡︎
The Word Is Murder by Anthony Horowitz

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adventurous mysterious medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.25

The Situationship by Abby Jimenez

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funny lighthearted 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

5.0

I only got this bonus chapters for the sneak peek at “Say you’ll remember me” and Abby just doesn’t miss. I simply can’t wait until April 2025 for this book to come out, I NEED the arc 😫😫
The Man Who Died Twice by Richard Osman

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adventurous funny 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? No

5.0

The Three Lives of Cate Kay by Kate Fagan

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challenging emotional reflective 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

4.75

I went into this completely blind and I'm IMPRESSED! A DEBUT?! I finished this in two sittings because I simply could not think about anything else. 
 
Overall Thoughts: 
- Multiple POVs to provide a rich, multifaceted narrative that enhances the depth and complexity of the story. To see the world beyond what Cate herself if experiencing so that we are able to gain insight into how others perceive Cate which was a really fun way of structuring. It really pulls you into the story and provides a sense of intimacy and immediacy, as we get to experience the highs and lows of each character's journey. It turns the story into a more immersive experience, where the emotional stakes feel higher because they’re seen from multiple angles. (Hello Evelyn Hugo???) 
 
- Definitely comparable to "The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo" but not so much "First Lie Wins" like the blurb mentioned. I wouldn't consider this a thriller at all but more literary fiction. It's a deep dive into Cate Kay's character and exploring the relationships of those who are close to her. 
 
- This author is going to kill it. I feel like this story would be great for an adaptation (I work in publishing, adaptating books to film/TV so I always have my radar out for writers like Kate Fagan. She excites me). 
 
"There’s a version of me that exists in everyone’s mind, and none of them are quite right. The hardest part is not knowing which one I’d rather be." 

Themes Explored: 
Identity and Self-Discovery: Cate's journey is all about finding herself amid life's twists and turns. The title hints at her living multiple "lives"—phases that reflect her personal evolution and the tension between who she is and who she wants to become. It's a relatable exploration of self, especially for those grappling with their own transformations. 
 
Desire vs. Responsibility: Cate's impulsive decisions, like rerouting her flight, underscore the eternal struggle between pursuing one's desires and fulfilling responsibilities. This universal theme of balancing wants and needs is at the heart of Cate’s story, showing how our choices can liberate us or pull us deeper into conflict. 
 
Relationships and Growth: Cate's relationships with Ryan, Sidney, and others are more than just background noise—they are critical to her development. The book explores how friendships, romance, and loyalty shape our paths, often complicating our sense of self. It’s a reminder of the profound impact people can have on our lives. 
 
Escapism and New Beginnings: From Los Angeles to Charleston, Cate is drawn to the idea of starting over—escaping her past for the allure of something new. This theme resonates with anyone who has ever dreamed of a fresh start, though the novel questions whether these new beginnings truly offer freedom or are simply ways to avoid facing deeper issues. 
 
Consequences of Impulsivity: Cate’s tendency to act on a whim adds a layer of tension, highlighting how impulsive decisions can lead to both exhilarating and disastrous outcomes. It’s a powerful look at the thrill of living in the moment and the unavoidable consequences that follow. 
 
Women, Ambition, and Independence: At its core, this novel is about a modern, ambitious woman striving to carve out her own path. Cate’s journey explores the nuances of personal ambition and independence, particularly as she navigates the expectations placed upon her. This aspect of the story will resonate with readers familiar with the pressures of balancing career, personal life, and relationships. 
 
- This novel perfectly captures the messy reality of life's transitions and the ongoing search for authenticity. It reminds us that while new beginnings can be empowering, they come with many challenges that force us to confront our truest selves. This is a story about embracing who you are, even when it's complicated, especially when it's complicated—and understanding that sometimes the only way to find yourself is by getting a little lost first. 
 
My Only Negative: 
The ENDING!! Ahh. It felt incredibly rushed, leaving us wanting more closure. (view spoiler) Key moments are glossed over, missing the emotional impact and payoff we’ve been waiting for. We don’t get to see how Cate/Cass/Annie's life truly unfolds after these pivotal events, making the conclusion feel incomplete and leaving us craving a more satisfying ending. Wouldn't have minded the book a bit longer to ride out the ending a bit but oh well, it was still amazing and I loved every moment of it.
The Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osman

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adventurous funny mysterious medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.75