rachelisathomas22's reviews
348 reviews

emotional inspiring medium-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

4.0

This was my second book by TJ Klune, and I enjoyed my read! Klune’s humor and ability to write character growth feels unique and is always enjoyable. I thought the setting and concept of this way station after death felt unique and gave the reader something to think about and a motivation to keep reading just so you could figure out more than world and the book’s parameters of death. I think what I would have enjoyed more is if we met the manager a bit sooner to introduce a bit more tension into the plot earlier, and I wish the love story in the book had a bit more steady development throughout the book other than hinting at it until it kind of went all in. Both of those points are a bit nit-picky and regardless this was an overall enjoyable read.

The Wedding People by Alison Espach

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emotional hopeful inspiring reflective medium-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

5.0

What a read! I was intrigued by the title and cover of the book, and immediately hooked by the beginning. The subject of depression, suicide, and mental health can be tricky, and author Alison Espach handled the subject matter with care and grace crafting a funny and thought-provoking novel. It’s interesting how Espach takes us through Phoebe’s time at the wedding; it unravels almost like a mystery getting the different perspectives of the different people at the wedding and keeps you on your toes to see what will happen at the end of the week for Phoebe. The main characters growth and slowly gaining confidence feels earned and never feels rushed. The writing style Espach uses lends to the kind of inner monologue Phoebe has, highly intelligent and a classic overthinker.

This is a good read for readers who like a story of character growth and unraveling the relationships between people.

This review was in exchange for a free advanced reader copy through NetGalley.

Content Warnings

The Heaven & Earth Grocery Store by James McBride

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hopeful inspiring reflective slow-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? No
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

Gold by Raven Kennedy

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adventurous dark emotional inspiring mysterious medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

I can't believe this book. I can't believe this series. Spoilers below for the book and entire series.

Gold was such a fantastic payoff for the four books prior. We finally get answers alongside Auren on why she was taken and sold in Orea. Raven has done such a good job slowly building the story to its inevitable end, giving us reveals in each book to keep the reader involved the world and characters she's crafted. Normally I don't love characters being introduced late in the series, but our newest additions and shifting dynamics in existing characters made the world feel more full and presented the characters with growth and reflection. I especially enjoyed all those we met in Annwyn.

I had so many big feelings throughout and, to me, that's a sign of a well crafted book. While I wish we got Slade and Auren back together by the end of the book, I can understand why she didn't and how big this cliffhanger is to set up the finale. Slade showing this other side of himself was delicious, and I thoroughly enjoyed watching him give over to his wrathful side. Auren feeling like she has purpose and still growing in her power felt like a sweet victory we've been hoping for. And Malina. MALINA! I was so proud of her arc. For a POV that I was regularly annoyed by throughout the series (because she was so grating) the arc of her character has been satisfying. Dommik is a perfect partner in her journey.

To Flame a Wild Flower by Sarah A. Parker

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adventurous dark emotional sad medium-paced