Scan barcode
queendbw's reviews
1226 reviews
Fairy Tale by Stephen King
adventurous
dark
emotional
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? Yes
4.75
Book #14 of 2023. Fairy Tale by Stephen King.
I really enjoyed this story! Charlie Reade is your typical high school junior - good student, good athlete, good kid - with a not-so-typical past OR future.
Charlie’s mother was killed in a horrible accident when he was a small boy and his dad turned to alcoholism to cope. When we meet Charlie, both are doing much better.
One day, Charlie is riding past the home of a cantankerous neighbor and hears a call for help. He does the neighborly thing and helps Mr. Bowditch, which takes his life in a completely new direction. He finds out things about Mr. Bowditch that he never would have imagined and they become very close friends. Then Mr. Bowditch dies and he finds a whole new world!
Charlie ventures to this world and his journey leads him to discover the type of man he will become - but he has to choose. Will he be a Disney Prince or a Dark Prince? The story was riveting! 4.75/5
#readsof2023 #audiobookreader #literacy #readingisfundamental
I really enjoyed this story! Charlie Reade is your typical high school junior - good student, good athlete, good kid - with a not-so-typical past OR future.
Charlie’s mother was killed in a horrible accident when he was a small boy and his dad turned to alcoholism to cope. When we meet Charlie, both are doing much better.
One day, Charlie is riding past the home of a cantankerous neighbor and hears a call for help. He does the neighborly thing and helps Mr. Bowditch, which takes his life in a completely new direction. He finds out things about Mr. Bowditch that he never would have imagined and they become very close friends. Then Mr. Bowditch dies and he finds a whole new world!
Charlie ventures to this world and his journey leads him to discover the type of man he will become - but he has to choose. Will he be a Disney Prince or a Dark Prince? The story was riveting! 4.75/5
#readsof2023 #audiobookreader #literacy #readingisfundamental
The Last Black Unicorn by Tiffany Haddish
challenging
dark
emotional
funny
hopeful
medium-paced
4.0
Book #13 of 2023. The Last Black Unicorn by Tiffany Haddish.
I have decided to read more non-fiction books this year and I’ve found that biographies and memoirs are most interesting to me. This is the third so far.
I really did not know much about Tiffany before reading this (she narrates the audiobook and I do recommend!) and now I want to know her personally.
She has overcome so many hardships in life and still manages to have such an aura of positivity! She has experienced child abuse, abandonment, foster care, illiteracy, and domestic violence and that isn’t all. Through all this she keeps growing and keeps loving.
The essays are all open and honest and hearing her get emotional while reading made them feel even more genuine. I already knew that she was funny, but she is also all heart! I give it 4/5.
#readsof2023 #audiobookreader #literacy #readingisfundamental
I have decided to read more non-fiction books this year and I’ve found that biographies and memoirs are most interesting to me. This is the third so far.
I really did not know much about Tiffany before reading this (she narrates the audiobook and I do recommend!) and now I want to know her personally.
She has overcome so many hardships in life and still manages to have such an aura of positivity! She has experienced child abuse, abandonment, foster care, illiteracy, and domestic violence and that isn’t all. Through all this she keeps growing and keeps loving.
The essays are all open and honest and hearing her get emotional while reading made them feel even more genuine. I already knew that she was funny, but she is also all heart! I give it 4/5.
#readsof2023 #audiobookreader #literacy #readingisfundamental
Content Warnings
Graphic: Child abuse, Domestic abuse, and Abandonment
Minor: Sexual harassment
Joyland by Stephen King
adventurous
dark
emotional
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.75
Book #12 of 2023. Joyland by Stephen King.
I must confess that I’m a fan of Stephen King’s novels - the film and tv adaptations, not so much, but I’d LOVE to see this one adapted to the screen!
I really feel like this is King’s homage to Something Wicked this Way Comes by Ray Bradbury. This is the story of Devin Jones’ summer after his junior year of college. He’s in a great relationship with the girl of his dreams and when she gets a summer job in Boston, he gets a summer job at an amusement park in North Carolina. He makes life-long friends; learns what love is not; matures a lot AND unveils a serial killer!
This was a fast read that never got predictable. The characters were multi-dimensional (even the eccentric ones); the setting is a small Carolina beach town and the story is amazing! I can’t say much more without giving the whole story away, but I love Devin and I would be interested in seeing what happened with him after this story. I give it 4.75/5!
#readsof2023 #audiobookreader #literacy #readingisfundamental
I must confess that I’m a fan of Stephen King’s novels - the film and tv adaptations, not so much, but I’d LOVE to see this one adapted to the screen!
I really feel like this is King’s homage to Something Wicked this Way Comes by Ray Bradbury. This is the story of Devin Jones’ summer after his junior year of college. He’s in a great relationship with the girl of his dreams and when she gets a summer job in Boston, he gets a summer job at an amusement park in North Carolina. He makes life-long friends; learns what love is not; matures a lot AND unveils a serial killer!
This was a fast read that never got predictable. The characters were multi-dimensional (even the eccentric ones); the setting is a small Carolina beach town and the story is amazing! I can’t say much more without giving the whole story away, but I love Devin and I would be interested in seeing what happened with him after this story. I give it 4.75/5!
#readsof2023 #audiobookreader #literacy #readingisfundamental
Aurora by David Koepp
adventurous
emotional
tense
fast-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? Yes
4.5
Book #11 of 2023. Aurora by David Koepp.
This story examines how people respond to disaster in a post-Covid world.
Scientists find data showing that several solar phenomena will cause an EMP (electromagnetic pulse) that will knock out power world-wide. The scientists also have a solution - temporarily take down the power grid to avoid the EMP taking all power down. Unfortunately, the powers-that-be choose to ignore the science (shocker!) and disaster ensues.
The main character is Aubrey Wheeler. She’s a 30-something divorcee that finds herself raising her stepson solo. Her ex is a manipulative gambler and addict and is mostly absent from his son’s life. She also has a super-rich, over-protective and controlling older brother who is insistent on helping her through the crisis.
This is a very well-written tale of Aubrey’s relationships with her stepson, ex-husband, brother and neighbors. We learn of her traumatic youth; why she won’t let her brother help; and the results of learning to trust and rely on others.
I really enjoyed this book! The tale was believable and engaging; the characters were multi-dimensional and I found myself waiting with baited breath for the conclusion - which was very satisfactory. I’ve heard that it’s being adapted to film. I rate it 4.5/5 stars.
#readsof2023 #audiobookreader #literacy #readingisfundamental
This story examines how people respond to disaster in a post-Covid world.
Scientists find data showing that several solar phenomena will cause an EMP (electromagnetic pulse) that will knock out power world-wide. The scientists also have a solution - temporarily take down the power grid to avoid the EMP taking all power down. Unfortunately, the powers-that-be choose to ignore the science (shocker!) and disaster ensues.
The main character is Aubrey Wheeler. She’s a 30-something divorcee that finds herself raising her stepson solo. Her ex is a manipulative gambler and addict and is mostly absent from his son’s life. She also has a super-rich, over-protective and controlling older brother who is insistent on helping her through the crisis.
This is a very well-written tale of Aubrey’s relationships with her stepson, ex-husband, brother and neighbors. We learn of her traumatic youth; why she won’t let her brother help; and the results of learning to trust and rely on others.
I really enjoyed this book! The tale was believable and engaging; the characters were multi-dimensional and I found myself waiting with baited breath for the conclusion - which was very satisfactory. I’ve heard that it’s being adapted to film. I rate it 4.5/5 stars.
#readsof2023 #audiobookreader #literacy #readingisfundamental
Gwendy's Final Task by Richard Chizmar, Stephen King
adventurous
emotional
fast-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
4.0
Book #10 of 2023. Gwendy’s Final Task by Stephen King and Richard Chizmar.
I read Gwendy’s Button Box several years ago and did not realize that it was part of a series. Luckily, I was able to enjoy this tale (which is the third book of the series) without reading book 2.
Gwendy Peterson in now an author. One evening, she receives a visit from a mysterious man from her past. He is not well and he asks her to take on a task that will save the world. There are evil beings that are after the button box that Gwendy has possessed in the past. The button box is both magical and terrible - and she must keep it out of the hands of evil.
In the interim, Gwendy gets elected to the Senate; loses her husband; lands a seat on a space rocket and plans to save the world - all while fighting early dementia.
The story was really fast-paced and managed to avoid being formulaic. I really enjoyed Gwendy’s inner dialog and the other characters were individualized without becoming stock “good” or ”bad” people.
I plan to read Gwendy’s Magic Feather, just because I truly enjoyed seeing this character again. 4.5/5 stars.
#readsof2023 #audiobookreader #literacy #readingisfundamental
I read Gwendy’s Button Box several years ago and did not realize that it was part of a series. Luckily, I was able to enjoy this tale (which is the third book of the series) without reading book 2.
Gwendy Peterson in now an author. One evening, she receives a visit from a mysterious man from her past. He is not well and he asks her to take on a task that will save the world. There are evil beings that are after the button box that Gwendy has possessed in the past. The button box is both magical and terrible - and she must keep it out of the hands of evil.
In the interim, Gwendy gets elected to the Senate; loses her husband; lands a seat on a space rocket and plans to save the world - all while fighting early dementia.
The story was really fast-paced and managed to avoid being formulaic. I really enjoyed Gwendy’s inner dialog and the other characters were individualized without becoming stock “good” or ”bad” people.
I plan to read Gwendy’s Magic Feather, just because I truly enjoyed seeing this character again. 4.5/5 stars.
#readsof2023 #audiobookreader #literacy #readingisfundamental
Bloodmarked by Tracy Deonn
adventurous
emotional
mysterious
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Book #9 of 2023. Bloodmarked by Tracy Deonn.
This is the second book of the series and it did not disappoint. The series started with Legendborn, where Bree was trying to find out what really happened when her mother died. In her search, she learned several unexpected things about herself. One of which is that she’s a direct descendant of Arthur, yes of Camelot fame.
In this installment, Bree struggles with learning to use her powers while remaining true to herself. She also learns how to be a leader and what true friendship looks like.
I really enjoyed this book. It was fast-paced with a great plot and the author introduced some interesting characters. I love that the ending left me hungry for the next installment - which I hope is coming soon! 4/5
#readsof2023 #audiobookreader #literacy #readingisfundamental
This is the second book of the series and it did not disappoint. The series started with Legendborn, where Bree was trying to find out what really happened when her mother died. In her search, she learned several unexpected things about herself. One of which is that she’s a direct descendant of Arthur, yes of Camelot fame.
In this installment, Bree struggles with learning to use her powers while remaining true to herself. She also learns how to be a leader and what true friendship looks like.
I really enjoyed this book. It was fast-paced with a great plot and the author introduced some interesting characters. I love that the ending left me hungry for the next installment - which I hope is coming soon! 4/5
#readsof2023 #audiobookreader #literacy #readingisfundamental
The Most Beautiful: My Life with Prince by Mayte Garcia
lighthearted
medium-paced
2.0
Book #8 of 2023. The Most Beautiful: My Life with Prince by Mayte Garcia.
Before I read this book, I knew that Prince was a phenomenal musician, a womanizer, kinda ”different”, married to Mayte, and that they lost a child.
After reading this book, I know that Prince was a phenomenal musician, a womanizer, kinda “different”, married to Mayte, and that they lost two children.
This book reads like a pre-teen diary - full of giddiness and naïveté. There is not much depth here at all and very little introspection. She hints at his womanizing, but doesn’t fully acknowledge it other than to throw shade at Manuela (his second wife). She hints at suspected drug use, but never directly addresses it.
Not sure if Mayte had to work around an NDA or something, but this book could have been an email. 🤷🏾♀️ 2/5 stars.
#readsof2023 #audiobookreader #literacy #readingisfundamental
Before I read this book, I knew that Prince was a phenomenal musician, a womanizer, kinda ”different”, married to Mayte, and that they lost a child.
After reading this book, I know that Prince was a phenomenal musician, a womanizer, kinda “different”, married to Mayte, and that they lost two children.
This book reads like a pre-teen diary - full of giddiness and naïveté. There is not much depth here at all and very little introspection. She hints at his womanizing, but doesn’t fully acknowledge it other than to throw shade at Manuela (his second wife). She hints at suspected drug use, but never directly addresses it.
Not sure if Mayte had to work around an NDA or something, but this book could have been an email. 🤷🏾♀️ 2/5 stars.
#readsof2023 #audiobookreader #literacy #readingisfundamental
Just as I Am by Cicely Tyson
emotional
informative
inspiring
reflective
medium-paced
4.0
Book #7 of 2023. Just As I Am by Cicely Tyson.
My favorite genre of non-fiction is definitely biographies. I love getting the behind-the-facade view of fascinating people and Ms. Tyson did NOT disappoint.
She tells her life story - the beautiful and the ugly. She starts with her parents’ humble Caribbean beginnings and their journeys to the US. We learn about her early years, teens and early adulthood. Then she starts her modeling and acting career.
She was literally draaaagged into acting and I am so grateful for it. I couldn’t imagine the world of entertainment without her portrayals of Miss Jane Pittman, orRebecca (the mother in Sounder), or Sipsey in Fried Green Tomatoes, or her turn and Annalise Keating’s mother in Hoe to a get Away With Murder.
She is an icon and I am truly grateful that she agreed to share her story with us. I feel it was a bonus to hear her share her life via audiobook. Her narration was #chefskiss. This was an engrossing story and I finished it wishing I could could known her personally. 4/5
#readsof2023 #literacy #audiobookreader #readingisfundamental
My favorite genre of non-fiction is definitely biographies. I love getting the behind-the-facade view of fascinating people and Ms. Tyson did NOT disappoint.
She tells her life story - the beautiful and the ugly. She starts with her parents’ humble Caribbean beginnings and their journeys to the US. We learn about her early years, teens and early adulthood. Then she starts her modeling and acting career.
She was literally draaaagged into acting and I am so grateful for it. I couldn’t imagine the world of entertainment without her portrayals of Miss Jane Pittman, orRebecca (the mother in Sounder), or Sipsey in Fried Green Tomatoes, or her turn and Annalise Keating’s mother in Hoe to a get Away With Murder.
She is an icon and I am truly grateful that she agreed to share her story with us. I feel it was a bonus to hear her share her life via audiobook. Her narration was #chefskiss. This was an engrossing story and I finished it wishing I could could known her personally. 4/5
#readsof2023 #literacy #audiobookreader #readingisfundamental
Hunting by Stars by Cherie Dimaline
challenging
dark
emotional
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
Book #6 of 2023 is Hunting by Stars by Cherie Dimaline.
This is the sequel to The Marrow Thieves. We find that Frenchie has been caught by recruiters and is in one of the residential schools. He has a choice to make - he can join them and become an agent or he can be a resident used to make medicine for the ill.
Will he become an agent? Will he ever see his family and Rose again? How many people is he willing betray to get what he wants?
I really enjoyed this story and I look forward to seeing what Ms. Dimaline creates next. 3.5/5
#readsof2023 #literacy #readingisfundamental #audiobookreader
This is the sequel to The Marrow Thieves. We find that Frenchie has been caught by recruiters and is in one of the residential schools. He has a choice to make - he can join them and become an agent or he can be a resident used to make medicine for the ill.
Will he become an agent? Will he ever see his family and Rose again? How many people is he willing betray to get what he wants?
I really enjoyed this story and I look forward to seeing what Ms. Dimaline creates next. 3.5/5
#readsof2023 #literacy #readingisfundamental #audiobookreader
Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World by Cal Newport
informative
medium-paced
3.0
Book #5 of 2023 is Deep Work by Cal Newport.
I read this book with a group of co-workers. The author gives tips on arranging your day to be able to do more “deep work” - i.e. focused work with minimal distractions.
When I read non-fiction, it is usually biographical in nature, but this was an interesting read and I look forward to implementing some of the strategies detailed.
#readsof2023 #literacy #readingisfundamental
I read this book with a group of co-workers. The author gives tips on arranging your day to be able to do more “deep work” - i.e. focused work with minimal distractions.
When I read non-fiction, it is usually biographical in nature, but this was an interesting read and I look forward to implementing some of the strategies detailed.
#readsof2023 #literacy #readingisfundamental