shealwaysreads's reviews
842 reviews

I read Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin, and wow, I’m absolutely giving it 5 stars! Seriously, this book blew me away in ways I didn’t expect.

First off, let’s talk about the premise. It revolves around two lifelong friends, Sam and Sadie, who come together to create video games. The way Zevin dives into the world of gaming is just phenomenal. It’s not just about the games themselves, but how they reflect the characters’ lives, their struggles, and their creativity. I love how she captures the magic and the heartbreak that comes with creating art, especially in such a unique medium.

The characters are incredibly well-developed. Sam and Sadie feel like real people with flaws, dreams, and insecurities. Their friendship is complex and beautifully messy, which made me root for them even when things got tough. And let’s not forget the supporting cast—they add so much depth to the story, each with their own quirks and journeys. You really get a sense of their lives and how they intertwine, which made me feel so connected to the whole narrative.

Zevin’s writing is another highlight. It’s lyrical yet accessible, weaving in themes of love, loss, and the passage of time in such a poignant way. I found myself highlighting passages because they were just so beautifully crafted. The exploration of creativity and how it can be both a lifeline and a source of pain is something I think we can all relate to, regardless of whether you’re into gaming or not.

And can we talk about the pacing? It flows so well! I was completely absorbed and found myself staying up late because I just couldn’t put it down. The structure, jumping through different time periods, adds to the story’s richness. You get to experience the evolution of the characters and their relationship, which is so rewarding.

Overall, Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow is a heartfelt, thought-provoking read that explores friendship, creativity, and the impact of art on our lives. If you’re looking for a book that’ll make you think and feel deeply, this is it! Seriously, go grab a copy—you won’t regret it! Happy reading! 🎮📚💖

Hey there! I read This Vicious Grace by Emily Thiede, and I have to say, it was quite the ride! I’m giving it a solid 4 stars, and let me tell you why.

First off, the world-building is seriously impressive. Thiede creates this lush, vibrant setting that feels alive with magic and danger. The whole idea of the Finestra and their powers is super intriguing, and I loved how it added layers to the story. It’s like you’re stepping into a world where every corner has its own secret, and you can’t help but want to explore it all.

Now, let’s talk characters! The protagonist, Alessa, is such a relatable and strong character. She’s dealing with a lot—expectations, powers she can’t quite control, and some serious pressure from those around her. I appreciated her journey of self-discovery and how she navigates her complex emotions. Plus, the dynamic between her and the other characters, especially the love interest, is filled with tension and chemistry that kept me flipping the pages.

Speaking of romance, it’s definitely a central theme in the story, but I liked that it didn’t overshadow the main plot. The relationship develops gradually, which felt natural and added depth to both characters. There’s just enough angst to keep you invested, without it feeling overdone.

The pacing was pretty spot on too—enough action and intrigue to keep you hooked, but there were also those quieter moments that allowed for some character development. I found myself laughing, gasping, and even a bit teary-eyed at times. 

If I had to nitpick, there were a few moments that felt a tad predictable, but honestly, that didn’t take away from my overall enjoyment. It’s a fantastic debut, and I can’t wait to see where Thiede takes us in the next book!

So, if you’re into fantasy with rich world-building, a strong female lead, and a sprinkle of romance, definitely give This Vicious Grace a shot. I think you’ll enjoy it just as much as I did! Happy reading! 📚✨

Hey there, fellow book lovers! I finished “Wished,” the fourth installment in Sarah Ready’s Ghosted series, and I have to say, I’m feeling pretty good about it—definitely a solid 4-star read!

Right off the bat, I loved how Ready continues to weave together humor and heart in this one. The characters are relatable, and the storyline has that perfect blend of whimsy and depth. I mean, who doesn’t love a little ghostly romance with a side of hilarious misadventures? It’s like she’s mastered the art of mixing laugh-out-loud moments with some tear-jerking scenes. I found myself chuckling one minute and then reaching for the tissues the next. Seriously, it’s a rollercoaster of emotions!

Now, let’s talk about the audiobook narration. I listened to it while commuting, and wow, it really brought the story to life! The narrator did an amazing job capturing the characters’ quirks and personalities. It felt like I was right there in the middle of the action, sharing in the laughs and gasps as the plot unfolded. The pacing was spot on, and the narrator’s voice was just the right blend of warm and engaging—it really drew me in. If you’re considering the audiobook, I’d totally recommend it!

As for the plot, Ready keeps it fresh and exciting. I loved how she introduced new characters while still keeping the familiar faces we’ve come to adore. Each chapter was a delightful surprise, and I found myself eagerly flipping (or tapping, in my case) to see what would happen next. There’s a nice balance of tension and resolution that kept me hooked until the last page.

Overall, Wished is a fantastic addition to the series and definitely worth your time. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just diving into the Ghosted world, you’ll find something to love here. So grab a cozy blanket, a cup of your favorite drink, and settle in for a delightful read (or listen)! Happy reading! 📚✨

The premise was super intriguing—Faye discovers a magical world that offers her a chance to escape her troubles, and I was all in for some whimsical adventure. But honestly, it didn’t quite live up to my expectations.

First off, the world-building had so much potential, but it felt a bit underdeveloped. I wanted to dive deeper into the magical elements and really get a sense of what made this world unique. Instead, it felt like we skimmed the surface, and I found myself wanting more detail and richness in the setting. It was like being given a glimpse of a great painting but not getting to see the full picture.

As for Faye, I liked her spirit, but sometimes her decisions left me scratching my head. I didn’t feel like I fully understood her motivations, which made it hard to connect with her journey. There were moments that could have been really emotional or impactful, but they just didn’t land for me.

The pacing also felt a bit off. Some scenes dragged on while others rushed by, and I wished there had been a better balance. It was like we were hopping from one moment to the next without really soaking in any of it.

That said, there were definitely some sweet moments and a few lines that made me smile, so it wasn’t a total miss. If you’re looking for a light read with a sprinkle of magic, you might find something to enjoy here. Just don’t go in expecting a fully fleshed-out adventure. For me, it was a nice idea that didn’t quite hit the mark.

Leading The Witness by Chantal Fernando, I’m a bit torn about it. The premise sounded super intriguing—a romance that revolves around a courtroom drama and the tension that comes with it. It had a lot of potential to be really engaging, but for me, it just fell a little flat.

The main characters, whose chemistry should have sizzled, felt kind of one-dimensional. I mean, I get that they’re in a high-stakes situation, but I wanted to see more depth to their personalities and motivations. There were moments that could have been really impactful, but they just didn’t hit the mark for me. I found myself not really connecting with them, which made it hard to fully invest in their story.

The pacing was also a bit off. Some parts dragged on way longer than they needed to, while other key moments felt rushed and underdeveloped. I kept hoping for more tension and drama, especially given the courtroom setting, but it didn’t quite deliver the excitement I was looking for.

That said, there were a few cute moments and some funny banter that I enjoyed, so it wasn’t a total loss. If you’re in the mood for a light read that mixes romance with a bit of legal drama, you might still find something to enjoy here. Just go in with tempered expectations—this one didn’t quite make the impact I was hoping for!

Where do I even start with Room by Emma Donoghue? This book is absolutely incredible! Told from the perspective of a five-year-old boy named Jack, it dives deep into the unique and harrowing reality of living in a tiny, locked room with his mother. I was completely captivated from the very first page.

Jack’s voice is so authentic and innocent—it’s both heartbreaking and eye-opening. The way he describes his world, which is literally just the room and the things inside it, is so vivid. You can feel the love he has for his mother and the way she creates a safe, nurturing environment despite their terrifying circumstances. It’s a testament to the strength of their bond, and it just pulled at my heartstrings.

What I really loved was how the story expands beyond the room itself. Once they escape, the book takes on a whole new layer, exploring themes of trauma, freedom, and the challenges of reintegrating into the outside world. The contrast between Jack’s sheltered existence and the overwhelming reality outside is portrayed so thoughtfully. It’s both moving and, at times, gut-wrenching.

Donoghue’s writing is absolutely brilliant—she balances the intense subject matter with moments of warmth and even humor. It’s a tough read at times, but it’s done with such care that you can’t help but feel uplifted by Jack’s resilience.

Honestly, the only reason that held me was that I wished some of the secondary characters were fleshed out a bit more. But overall, Room is a phenomenal read that stays with you long after you close the book. If you’re looking for something that’s both heartbreaking and beautifully hopeful, you absolutely need to pick this one up!

Eight Days on Planet Earth by Cat Jordan, and I have some mixed feelings about it. The premise is super intriguing—a young girl named Skye gets an unexpected chance to spend a week with this mysterious boy named Kellan, and it all takes place in a beautiful coastal town. Sounds like a dream, right? 

The book has a nice mix of coming-of-age vibes and romance, and I really appreciated the themes of self-discovery and the importance of relationships. Skye is a relatable character; she’s dealing with her own struggles and trying to figure out where she fits in. Kellan is charming and has his own secrets, which adds a bit of tension to their budding romance.

However, I found that the pacing felt a bit off at times. Some parts dragged on longer than necessary, and I wished for a little more depth in the characters and their backstories. There were moments that really had potential to shine, but they felt a bit rushed or not fully explored. 

Overall, Eight Days on Planet Earth has its sweet moments and a nice setting, but it didn’t quite leave me wowed. It’s a cute story that might appeal to younger readers or anyone looking for a light, summer read. If you’re into stories about love and self-discovery, it’s worth checking out, but just don’t expect it to blow your socks off!

Wow, The Nickel Boys by Colson Whitehead is a powerful read! This book dives into some heavy stuff, tackling themes of racism and injustice while telling the story of two boys in a reform school in Florida during the 1960s. It’s based on a real-life school, and honestly, it’s hard to believe that this kind of brutality existed.

Whitehead’s writing is so engaging; he has this way of making you feel like you're right there with the characters, experiencing their struggles and hopes. The two main characters, Elwood and Turner, couldn’t be more different, but their friendship is at the heart of the story. Elwood is idealistic and believes in the power of Martin Luther King Jr.'s teachings, while Turner is more cynical and practical, which creates some really interesting dynamics between them.

What I loved about this book is how it balances the harsh realities of their environment with moments of hope and resilience. It’s definitely not an easy read—some parts are tough to get through because of the injustice and violence—but it's so important. Whitehead doesn’t shy away from showing the brutal truth, and it really makes you think.

If I had to point out a downside, I felt like the pacing was a bit uneven in parts, and I wanted a little more depth in some secondary characters. But overall, The Nickel Boys is a beautifully written, thought-provoking novel that stays with you long after you finish it. It’s a must-read if you’re into historical fiction that really packs a punch. Definitely worth the hype!

This novel is set in a mysterious world that’s a mix of magic, secrets, and a bit of political intrigue, which definitely had me intrigued from the start. 

The story revolves around a character named Léo, who finds himself caught up in a kind of shadowy, elite school where things are not what they seem. The atmosphere is super atmospheric and almost dream-like at times, and I really appreciated Collins’ unique writing style. She has a way of crafting beautiful sentences that just pull you in.

That said, while I enjoyed the vibe and the world-building, I found myself a little lost when it came to the plot. There were parts that felt slow and meandering, and I was often left wanting a bit more excitement or depth in the story. The characters were interesting, but I didn’t connect with them as much as I had hoped, which made it hard to fully invest in their journeys.

Overall, The Betrayals has some really beautiful moments and a unique premise, but it didn’t quite hit the mark for me. It’s definitely worth checking out if you’re into atmospheric fantasy, but just go in knowing it might take a little while to really get going. If you’re looking for something with a bit more action or intensity, you might want to keep looking. But hey, it has its charms!

This book is like a spellbinding blend of magic, family drama, and a touch of history, all wrapped up in a beautifully written package. 

The story revolves around three women—each from a different time but all connected through their roots and some wild, witchy vibes. I loved how Hart weaves their lives together, showing how the past influences the present. It’s like you’re getting three stories for the price of one, and each character is equally compelling. You can’t help but root for them as they navigate their challenges and discover their strength.

Hart’s writing is just stunning. She has this way of painting vivid pictures of the settings and emotions that makes you feel like you’re right there with the characters. Plus, the themes of nature and femininity really resonate throughout the book, making it feel both timeless and relevant.

If I had to nitpick, there were a few moments where I wished for a bit more action or tension, but honestly, the character development and the emotional depth more than made up for it. Overall, Weyward is a beautifully crafted debut that’s definitely worth a read, especially if you love stories about strong women and a touch of magic. Grab a cozy blanket and get ready to be enchanted!