Scan barcode
obscurepages's reviews
397 reviews
Coraline by Neil Gaiman
5.0
I've seen the movie Coraline years ago and completely loved it! I did not know that it was based from this book though! Now I've read it, and I loved it as well! Will publish a book review on my blog this weekend!
This Lie Will Kill You by Chelsea Pitcher
3.0
(You can also find this review on my blog!)
I first saw this book on Edelweiss so I requested for a digital reader's copy, and I was approved! Although the story was really interesting—filled with lies, porcelain dolls, and fire—I found myself wanting more.
The writing
One thing that I loved about the author's writing in this story is the magnificent use of metaphors. This is probably my favorite thing out of the whole book. The author has a way of using metaphors and making the imagery much more interesting and in a way, more significant to the current scene.
The perspective of the story also jumped from character to character, and from past to present and vice versa. This was good for me as I was able to see the events unfold and see the truth among all the lies.
There was a part in the writing though that seemed too sexual and graphic for me. Although, when I think about it, that part really gave me a clear perspective into that particular character's personality.
The characters
The characters were likable enough for me, but there were times that they were predictable.
Ruby was fiery but I feel like she fell in love way to easily. Juniper was blinded by her feelings, Brett deserved better than to be manipulated and used because of his affections for a certain someone. Gavin only wants to fit in, and Parker is a true jerk who has the makings of an abusive, manipulative, and controlling boyfriend (Sorry guys, but I'm really not fond of Parker's character *cries*). Also, Shane seems like some sort Edward Cullen's reincarnation, I swear.
The plot
The plot was good, although I kept looking for something that will really chill my bones, something that will really blow my mind. Unfortunately, I found it a bit lacking.
There was mystery indeed—it made me wonder just what exactly happened one year ago, what these people are hiding, why was this party/contest happening and who made it possible, those kind of things. However, it didn't blow my mind or give me chills. Most of my theories and guesses about the plot were right. There was only one plot twist though that really shocked me. I won't go into details because I do not want to spoil you guys! Just know that this one was really crazy and I did not see it coming. (Kind of makes me think how I didn't see it!) That's something to watch out for!
And there you go! 3.5 stars for this book! This book will be released a month from now, December 11, 2018!
If you want something different from the usual YA Contemporary or YA Fantasy in your TBR, you can give this book a shot!
I first saw this book on Edelweiss so I requested for a digital reader's copy, and I was approved! Although the story was really interesting—filled with lies, porcelain dolls, and fire—I found myself wanting more.
The writing
One thing that I loved about the author's writing in this story is the magnificent use of metaphors. This is probably my favorite thing out of the whole book. The author has a way of using metaphors and making the imagery much more interesting and in a way, more significant to the current scene.
The perspective of the story also jumped from character to character, and from past to present and vice versa. This was good for me as I was able to see the events unfold and see the truth among all the lies.
There was a part in the writing though that seemed too sexual and graphic for me. Although, when I think about it, that part really gave me a clear perspective into that particular character's personality.
The characters
The characters were likable enough for me, but there were times that they were predictable.
Ruby was fiery but I feel like she fell in love way to easily. Juniper was blinded by her feelings, Brett deserved better than to be manipulated and used because of his affections for a certain someone. Gavin only wants to fit in, and Parker is a true jerk who has the makings of an abusive, manipulative, and controlling boyfriend (Sorry guys, but I'm really not fond of Parker's character *cries*). Also, Shane seems like some sort Edward Cullen's reincarnation, I swear.
The plot
The plot was good, although I kept looking for something that will really chill my bones, something that will really blow my mind. Unfortunately, I found it a bit lacking.
There was mystery indeed—it made me wonder just what exactly happened one year ago, what these people are hiding, why was this party/contest happening and who made it possible, those kind of things. However, it didn't blow my mind or give me chills. Most of my theories and guesses about the plot were right. There was only one plot twist though that really shocked me. I won't go into details because I do not want to spoil you guys! Just know that this one was really crazy and I did not see it coming. (Kind of makes me think how I didn't see it!) That's something to watch out for!
And there you go! 3.5 stars for this book! This book will be released a month from now, December 11, 2018!
If you want something different from the usual YA Contemporary or YA Fantasy in your TBR, you can give this book a shot!
Sky in the Deep by Adrienne Young
4.0
(You can also find this review on my blog.)
The first time I saw this book, I was immediately hooked! (Though, I suspect it’s primarily because of the Vikings part in the synopsis.) Fantasy and action and a strong female character? Sign me up!
The writing
The writing was good. The author managed to hook me within just a few chapters. I also loved how the writing style really captured the struggle of the main character, in terms of her journey from Hylli to Fela, and her own inner struggle in understanding everything that happened to her brother, and everything about the Riki clan.
At first I didn’t like the way the author incorporated the violence in the narration. It seemed out of place for me. But that was only in the first few chapters. After that, it was smoother and fiercer, and and through the writing, I saw the warrior that Eelyn was.
The characters
The characters were likable as I truly saw the passion and the love they have for various things. And although, each of them was driven by very different reasons, they were all so alike.
Eelyn was fueled by her love for her brother and father, and even Myra and the Aska clansmen. I witnessed Iri embrace new hope, a new life, and a new family. And I saw Fiske be driven by the love he has for his family including Iri.
I also loved how the clans were represented. Aska and Riki were different from each other, but one thing is for sure, their love for their clan and their families can unite them all.
The Herja clan was intriguing, too, but I felt like the details given by the author in the book was lacking. I wanted to know more about this fearsome clan.
The plot
The plot was good as well, though there were some points that threw me off.
The first few chapters were really good—filled with action and violence and fierce story-telling. But then it turned slow when Eelyn was in the Riki village. And then it picked up pace once again in the middle of the book.
The Herja clan was really interesting and I feel like they could have added more impact to the plot if the story offered more details about them. The story didn’t divulge further explanations about them other than they we menacing, they were ghost-like, and they were thought to be legends.
Eelyn’s growing feelings for Fiske also seemed out-of-place for me. They had minimal interaction and I just feel like it was so weird for them to be feeling that way. (That’s what it felt like for me, anyway.)
3.5 stars for me!
The first time I saw this book, I was immediately hooked! (Though, I suspect it’s primarily because of the Vikings part in the synopsis.) Fantasy and action and a strong female character? Sign me up!
The writing
The writing was good. The author managed to hook me within just a few chapters. I also loved how the writing style really captured the struggle of the main character, in terms of her journey from Hylli to Fela, and her own inner struggle in understanding everything that happened to her brother, and everything about the Riki clan.
At first I didn’t like the way the author incorporated the violence in the narration. It seemed out of place for me. But that was only in the first few chapters. After that, it was smoother and fiercer, and and through the writing, I saw the warrior that Eelyn was.
The characters
The characters were likable as I truly saw the passion and the love they have for various things. And although, each of them was driven by very different reasons, they were all so alike.
Eelyn was fueled by her love for her brother and father, and even Myra and the Aska clansmen. I witnessed Iri embrace new hope, a new life, and a new family. And I saw Fiske be driven by the love he has for his family including Iri.
I also loved how the clans were represented. Aska and Riki were different from each other, but one thing is for sure, their love for their clan and their families can unite them all.
The Herja clan was intriguing, too, but I felt like the details given by the author in the book was lacking. I wanted to know more about this fearsome clan.
The plot
The plot was good as well, though there were some points that threw me off.
The first few chapters were really good—filled with action and violence and fierce story-telling. But then it turned slow when Eelyn was in the Riki village. And then it picked up pace once again in the middle of the book.
The Herja clan was really interesting and I feel like they could have added more impact to the plot if the story offered more details about them. The story didn’t divulge further explanations about them other than they we menacing, they were ghost-like, and they were thought to be legends.
Eelyn’s growing feelings for Fiske also seemed out-of-place for me. They had minimal interaction and I just feel like it was so weird for them to be feeling that way. (That’s what it felt like for me, anyway.)
3.5 stars for me!
Bring Me Their Hearts by Sara Wolf
5.0
(You can also find this review on my blog!)
I first discovered this book back in June and I craved for it immediately. Witches, magic, royalty, fantasy, a beautiful cover, and an intriguing synopsis—it has everything that catches my eye in a book. Now that I’ve finally read it, I can now conclude that it’s one of my favorite reads this year!
The writing
I love the writing style of the author. There were moments that were easy to follow, and light and funny; but there were also parts where it was gripping and emotional and dark. It was a page-turner, not only because the story line was really interesting, but because the characters themselves were intriguing as well. I truly applaud the author for this.
The characters
I adore the main character of this book, Zera. She was fierce, witty, and sassy. I loved every sassy remark and witty comeback she said. She makes sure that no one steps on her or her friends. Despite this, I can also see that she was also lonely and scared—haunted by the blood on her hands, her longing for a normal human life, and the uncontrollable hunger within her.
I loved Prince Lucien as well. He’s your typical cold and brooding prince, but he has a heart of gold and a mind different from his father’s. His love for his sister is truly a great influence on his personality.
Malachite and Fione were really good as well. Malachite is a loyal soldier and friend, not to mention really funny. While Fione is a strong complex character driven by two things—her love for Varia and her disdain towards her uncle.
Above all, I loved the chemistry between these characters. I loved Zera and Lucien, Lucien and Malachite, Zera and Malachite, Zera and Fione. They work really well together, and I would love to see more of them in the future.
The plot
The plot was also very interesting. The idea of a Heartless was so interesting for me. How they were made, how they function, and of course, them dealing with the hunger inside. At first, I thought the hunger was just this figurative term. But the more I read the book, the more I advance through the story, the more I realize that the hunger seems like a whole new different and malevolent person living inside a Heartless. And I truly found this bit fascinating.
There were moments though when the plot was a bit predictable, but I still loved it nonetheless. I believe the story line progressed smoothly, and that cliffhanger at the end is just too good. I can’t wait for book two!
The world-building
Oh my God. The world-building! It is amazing! I absolutely loved the world that the author created for this story. It was complex, it was dark, it has this rich and haunting history, and I want every bit of it. I loved the bits and pieces in the story and in the dialogue, where they talk about their world and mention details about it. It absolutely helped me, as a reader, to visualize and get a feel of the world the characters are in.
I first discovered this book back in June and I craved for it immediately. Witches, magic, royalty, fantasy, a beautiful cover, and an intriguing synopsis—it has everything that catches my eye in a book. Now that I’ve finally read it, I can now conclude that it’s one of my favorite reads this year!
The writing
I love the writing style of the author. There were moments that were easy to follow, and light and funny; but there were also parts where it was gripping and emotional and dark. It was a page-turner, not only because the story line was really interesting, but because the characters themselves were intriguing as well. I truly applaud the author for this.
The characters
I adore the main character of this book, Zera. She was fierce, witty, and sassy. I loved every sassy remark and witty comeback she said. She makes sure that no one steps on her or her friends. Despite this, I can also see that she was also lonely and scared—haunted by the blood on her hands, her longing for a normal human life, and the uncontrollable hunger within her.
I loved Prince Lucien as well. He’s your typical cold and brooding prince, but he has a heart of gold and a mind different from his father’s. His love for his sister is truly a great influence on his personality.
Malachite and Fione were really good as well. Malachite is a loyal soldier and friend, not to mention really funny. While Fione is a strong complex character driven by two things—her love for Varia and her disdain towards her uncle.
Above all, I loved the chemistry between these characters. I loved Zera and Lucien, Lucien and Malachite, Zera and Malachite, Zera and Fione. They work really well together, and I would love to see more of them in the future.
The plot
The plot was also very interesting. The idea of a Heartless was so interesting for me. How they were made, how they function, and of course, them dealing with the hunger inside. At first, I thought the hunger was just this figurative term. But the more I read the book, the more I advance through the story, the more I realize that the hunger seems like a whole new different and malevolent person living inside a Heartless. And I truly found this bit fascinating.
There were moments though when the plot was a bit predictable, but I still loved it nonetheless. I believe the story line progressed smoothly, and that cliffhanger at the end is just too good. I can’t wait for book two!
The world-building
Oh my God. The world-building! It is amazing! I absolutely loved the world that the author created for this story. It was complex, it was dark, it has this rich and haunting history, and I want every bit of it. I loved the bits and pieces in the story and in the dialogue, where they talk about their world and mention details about it. It absolutely helped me, as a reader, to visualize and get a feel of the world the characters are in.
Eliza and Her Monsters by Francesca Zappia
5.0
(This review has also been posted on my blog.)
When I first heard about this book, I was already very interested. However, that did NOT prepare me for all the emotions that I went through when I finally read it.
Eliza and Her Monsters was an amazing read, (one that I finished in a record time of four hours) and I definitely enjoyed reading it more than I thought I would. It’s now one of my favorite reads this 2018.
The writing
The writing was so, so good! It was fun, it was easy, and it was so damn relatable. The writing in this book is actually my favorite thing because it was truly relatable, entertaining, and creative.
I found it creative because it was as if there were two stories in the book—Eliza’s life and Eliza’s comic book story. I loved it because the author blended these two stories together in such a manner that leads the reader on to this amazing journey.
I also found it truly relatable because for me, the author captured the emotions and thoughts of an introvert so well. I related to Eliza so damn much with every thought, every feeling, every fear, every doubt. Every emotion just punches me in the heart.
The characters
I loved the characters, of course.
As I mentioned, I related to Eliza so well in the whole story. She was an introvert, and Monstrous Sea, it was her escape—it was a part of her that she wanted to share with the world without actually being the center of people’s attention. I also loved how Eliza’s flaws were also shown, especially when it comes to her family, and she admitted these herself. I would have loved to see a full character development regarding these flaws, but it was still good nonetheless.
I liked Wallace as well. He was gentle and sweet, and such a geek just like Eliza. I was just a bit disappointed and annoyed at him near the end of the book, but of course I’m not telling why.
I also loved the interaction between Eliza and her online friends, and I adored how their friendship wasn’t devalued just because a screen separates them.
The plot
I loved the plot because as simple as it sounded, it actually was very complex as I read through the story. Apart from Eliza’s growing friendship with Wallace, there were also subplots about connecting and understanding your family, friendships both online and not, dealing with mental health, the struggle of artists and writers and their creations, everything. It’s actually kind of amazing for me how the author managed to tackle all of these in just about 400 pages.
I also loved the climax (no matter how heartbreaking it was), because I saw Eliza overcome a terrifying conflict (I really don’t want to go into detail about this because I might spoil you!). It was so good that I spent like the last 20% of the book crying while reading.
Anyway, that was such a good read. Definitely one of my faves this 2018 AAAHHHH FIVE STARS!
When I first heard about this book, I was already very interested. However, that did NOT prepare me for all the emotions that I went through when I finally read it.
Eliza and Her Monsters was an amazing read, (one that I finished in a record time of four hours) and I definitely enjoyed reading it more than I thought I would. It’s now one of my favorite reads this 2018.
The writing
The writing was so, so good! It was fun, it was easy, and it was so damn relatable. The writing in this book is actually my favorite thing because it was truly relatable, entertaining, and creative.
I found it creative because it was as if there were two stories in the book—Eliza’s life and Eliza’s comic book story. I loved it because the author blended these two stories together in such a manner that leads the reader on to this amazing journey.
I also found it truly relatable because for me, the author captured the emotions and thoughts of an introvert so well. I related to Eliza so damn much with every thought, every feeling, every fear, every doubt. Every emotion just punches me in the heart.
The characters
I loved the characters, of course.
As I mentioned, I related to Eliza so well in the whole story. She was an introvert, and Monstrous Sea, it was her escape—it was a part of her that she wanted to share with the world without actually being the center of people’s attention. I also loved how Eliza’s flaws were also shown, especially when it comes to her family, and she admitted these herself. I would have loved to see a full character development regarding these flaws, but it was still good nonetheless.
I liked Wallace as well. He was gentle and sweet, and such a geek just like Eliza. I was just a bit disappointed and annoyed at him near the end of the book, but of course I’m not telling why.
I also loved the interaction between Eliza and her online friends, and I adored how their friendship wasn’t devalued just because a screen separates them.
The plot
I loved the plot because as simple as it sounded, it actually was very complex as I read through the story. Apart from Eliza’s growing friendship with Wallace, there were also subplots about connecting and understanding your family, friendships both online and not, dealing with mental health, the struggle of artists and writers and their creations, everything. It’s actually kind of amazing for me how the author managed to tackle all of these in just about 400 pages.
I also loved the climax (no matter how heartbreaking it was), because I saw Eliza overcome a terrifying conflict (I really don’t want to go into detail about this because I might spoil you!). It was so good that I spent like the last 20% of the book crying while reading.
Anyway, that was such a good read. Definitely one of my faves this 2018 AAAHHHH FIVE STARS!
Harry Potter und der Stein der Weisen by J.K. Rowling
5.0
WOW WOW WOW. I've read this years ago, but I think rereading it now is even better.
The Sorcerer's Stone is a fun read—filled with just the right amount of comical dialogue, philosophical quotes, adventure, and magic!
The minute I start reading, I couldn't stop. The characters were so interesting! I loved seeing Harry's sass. I loved Ron and all his energy. I loved seeing Hermione fuss over homeworks and exams. I also loved how I got to see the development of their friendships! The writing, of course, was brilliant. I kept getting giddy and teary-eyed whenever I come across quote that I love. Although, I did find it a bit lacking when it comes to the author's descriptions of the situations. I would have liked more of it. The plot was brilliant, too, of course. The author truly has a way of inserting little details that actually has more significance than what the reader would have thought. I applaud her so much for that. It definitely makes the whole book—the whole story—exciting!
What a great start to my 2019! 4.5 stars for book one!
The Sorcerer's Stone is a fun read—filled with just the right amount of comical dialogue, philosophical quotes, adventure, and magic!
The minute I start reading, I couldn't stop. The characters were so interesting! I loved seeing Harry's sass. I loved Ron and all his energy. I loved seeing Hermione fuss over homeworks and exams. I also loved how I got to see the development of their friendships! The writing, of course, was brilliant. I kept getting giddy and teary-eyed whenever I come across quote that I love. Although, I did find it a bit lacking when it comes to the author's descriptions of the situations. I would have liked more of it. The plot was brilliant, too, of course. The author truly has a way of inserting little details that actually has more significance than what the reader would have thought. I applaud her so much for that. It definitely makes the whole book—the whole story—exciting!
What a great start to my 2019! 4.5 stars for book one!
Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets by J.K. Rowling
5.0
Why is Rowling so good with plots?!??! AAAAHHHHHH
This book was so, so good! The way J.K. Rowling weaves the plot is amazing. She leaves seemingly insignificant details (not just for the readers but for the characters as well) all throughout the story. And then as the climax builds up, you'll find that all those details are actually important and you'll be astounded just how all of it makes sense.
Also, Hagrid is so precious!!! Let that be known please.
This book was so, so good! The way J.K. Rowling weaves the plot is amazing. She leaves seemingly insignificant details (not just for the readers but for the characters as well) all throughout the story. And then as the climax builds up, you'll find that all those details are actually important and you'll be astounded just how all of it makes sense.
Also, Hagrid is so precious!!! Let that be known please.
Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix by J.K. Rowling
5.0
Absolutely amazing! The plot thickens and we are really starting to see the bigger picture here. We start to see more of the connection between Harry and Voldemort, what he plans to do, what Dumbledore means to do, the ministry, everything. This book was also emotionally exhausting. It was a whirlwind of plot twists, teenage angst, and emotional stress.
I loved the characters as well, and they definitely made the story more exciting.
Ginny seems more mature and confident and fierce.
One of my favorites, Luna Lovegood, was introduced. It was annoying to see Hermione antagonize Luna in the earlier parts of the story, but I really can't blame her. Hermione relies on facts and information, while Luna is fond of the mysterious and the unknown. I definitely want to see more friendly interaction between the two in the future.
I also loved Fred and George here, of course! They're my favorites! I loved how their departure somehow united the students, professors, and Peeves on giving Umbridge hell. It was too funny, too brilliant!
Also, 15-year-old James and Sirius were jerks.
I loved the characters as well, and they definitely made the story more exciting.
Ginny seems more mature and confident and fierce.
One of my favorites, Luna Lovegood, was introduced. It was annoying to see Hermione antagonize Luna in the earlier parts of the story, but I really can't blame her. Hermione relies on facts and information, while Luna is fond of the mysterious and the unknown. I definitely want to see more friendly interaction between the two in the future.
I also loved Fred and George here, of course! They're my favorites! I loved how their departure somehow united the students, professors, and Peeves on giving Umbridge hell. It was too funny, too brilliant!
Also, 15-year-old James and Sirius were jerks.
Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince by J.K. Rowling
5.0
THIS WAS A MASTERPIECE. A heartbreaking, masterfully-written MASTERPIECE.
I loved this book because we learned so much about Voldemort's past. We delved into his history and tried to understand his ways, his logic, his being. I applaud J.K. Rowling for really taking the time to go through everything and letting us know (and the characters) about this very important part.
The characters were great. I'm really starting to love Ginny and Slughorn is a nice addition to the story. (Well, he actually is a very important part of the story if we think about it.) We see Malfoy's struggle and his second thoughts, his fear, it was all so heartbreaking. Fleur and Bill were also funny (I love them), plus Tonks and Remus (AAAAAAHHHHH) The writing was also great! I loved how all of the details came together in the end. We see Harry as he think about Voldemort and what he needs to do, what he needs to accomplish. I also love how relationships were starting to develop here in this book. It was nice getting to read that because we see these characters growing and changing.
Also, can I just say...
ALBUS PERCIVAL WULFRIC BRIAN DUMBLEDORE
I loved this book because we learned so much about Voldemort's past. We delved into his history and tried to understand his ways, his logic, his being. I applaud J.K. Rowling for really taking the time to go through everything and letting us know (and the characters) about this very important part.
The characters were great. I'm really starting to love Ginny and Slughorn is a nice addition to the story. (Well, he actually is a very important part of the story if we think about it.) We see Malfoy's struggle and his second thoughts, his fear, it was all so heartbreaking. Fleur and Bill were also funny (I love them), plus Tonks and Remus (AAAAAAHHHHH) The writing was also great! I loved how all of the details came together in the end. We see Harry as he think about Voldemort and what he needs to do, what he needs to accomplish. I also love how relationships were starting to develop here in this book. It was nice getting to read that because we see these characters growing and changing.
Also, can I just say...
ALBUS PERCIVAL WULFRIC BRIAN DUMBLEDORE