shealwaysreads's reviews
842 reviews

Deepfake by Sarah Darer Littman is a timely and thought-provoking novel that delves into the dangerous world of technology and social media. The story follows protagonist Elise, a high school student who becomes the victim of a deepfake video that threatens to ruin her reputation. As she struggles to clear her name, Elise must navigate the murky waters of online manipulation and deception.

Littman does a fantastic job of incorporating current social media platforms and technology into the narrative, highlighting the very real dangers of deepfake technology and its potential to destroy lives. The novel serves as a cautionary tale for readers, urging them to be vigilant and critical of the information they consume online.

While the premise of the book is intriguing, the writing style leaves something to be desired. The prose is often clunky and uninspired, failing to fully engage the reader. However, the strength of the storyline and the important themes it explores make up for the lackluster writing.

Overall, Deepfake is a compelling and eye-opening read that sheds light on the dark side of technology and social media. Despite its mediocre writing style, the novel succeeds in sparking important conversations about the impact of digital manipulation on our society.

"Hidden Figures" is a compelling and enlightening account of the untold story of the African American women mathematicians who played pivotal roles at NASA during the early years of the U.S. space program. Margot Lee Shetterly shines a light on the lives of women like Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson, who overcame racial and gender barriers to contribute significantly to the success of America’s space missions.

The narrative is well-researched, blending historical context with personal stories that are both inspiring and heart-wrenching. Shetterly does an excellent job of situating the women’s experiences within the broader socio-political landscape of the time, illustrating how their work was not just about numbers but also about fighting for equality and recognition. The writing is engaging, and the stories of these women are powerful reminders of perseverance and intellect in the face of adversity.

However, one aspect of the book that I found a bit overwhelming was the heavy use of math and science terminology. While I appreciate the importance of accuracy in depicting the technical challenges these women faced, I felt that the extensive jargon sometimes detracted from the emotional resonance of their stories. For readers who may not have a strong background in mathematics or engineering, this could pose a barrier to fully appreciating the narrative. The technical details, while undoubtedly significant, occasionally overshadowed the personal triumphs and struggles of the women involved.

Despite this, "Hidden Figures" is an essential read that highlights the often-overlooked contributions of women in STEM and serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of diversity in all fields. It is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and an encouragement to future generations to pursue their passions, regardless of societal limitations. Overall, while the book could benefit from a more accessible approach to its technical content, the stories of Katherine, Dorothy, and Mary are undoubtedly worth exploring.

Stephen King's novel "The Body," which inspired the film Stand By Me, is a poignant coming-of-age story that follows a group of young boys on a journey to find the body of a missing boy. King has praised Stand By Me as his favorite adaptation to film, and it's easy to see why. The movie stays true to the short novel, capturing the essence of childhood friendship and adventure. It's a quick read that beautifully explores themes of friendship, loss, and the bittersweet process of growing up. There's a reason why King himself has proclaimed Stand By Me to be his favorite adaptation to film. It’s exactly like the short novel. And 100% worth the quick read.

Ladies and gentlemen I present to you the greatest thing since Daisy Jones and Six…. Marissa Stapley’s The Lightning Bottles 🎸🤘🎧

Set in the vibrant backdrop of the late 1970s and early 1980s, the story revolves around the life of a young woman named "Lady Sunshine," who is navigating the complexities of family, friendship, and self-discovery. Doan does a fantastic job of capturing the spirit of the era, with nostalgic references and a vivid sense of place that really pulls you into the story. The setting feels almost like a character in itself.

The characters are wonderfully crafted, each with their own quirks and backgrounds that make them relatable and engaging. Lady Sunshine, in particular, is a strong protagonist who faces her fair share of challenges. Her journey of finding her own identity amidst familial expectations and the vibrant chaos of life is both heartfelt and inspiring. The relationships she develops throughout the book—especially with her friends—are beautifully portrayed, showcasing the importance of support and understanding during tumultuous times.

One of the standout aspects of Doan’s writing is her ability to balance humor with poignant moments. There are plenty of laugh-out-loud scenes that lighten the mood, but there are also moments that tug at your heartstrings. This blend makes for a well-rounded read that keeps you invested in the characters' journeys.

There’s a nice rhythm to the unfolding drama and personal revelations, which makes it hard to put the book down. That said, I will mention that there are certain plot points I wished were explored in a bit more depth, but overall, the narrative remains compelling.

In conclusion, *Lady Sunshine* is a charming and engaging novel that beautifully explores themes of identity, friendship, and the bittersweet nature of growing up. With its vivid setting and relatable characters, it’s a book that will resonate with anyone who has ever felt the weight of expectation or the joy of true friendship. If you’re looking for a heartfelt coming-of-age story with a dash of nostalgia, this one should definitely be on your reading list! I’d give it a solid four stars. 

Literally just finished reading and here is my latest review.

Ash Davidson novel Damnation Spring is a captivating novel that immerses readers in the rugged beauty and harsh realities of the Pacific Northwest. Davidson’s vivid descriptions of the landscape and the characters bring the story to life in a way that keeps you glued to the page.

It follows a diverse group of characters grappling with the aftermath of a tragic logging accident in a small town. From the fiercely independent biologist determined to uncover the truth to the troubled logger haunted by his past, each character is complex and multi-dimensional, making them feel like real people you could meet on the street. It’s very Erin Brockovich.

The narrative is gripping and fast-paced, with plenty of twists and turns that will keep you guessing until the very end. Davidson’s writing is both lyrical and gritty, striking a perfect balance between the beauty of the natural world and the harsh realities of human nature.

If you’re a fan of books like “Where the Crawdads Sing” and “Into the Wild” that explore the intersection of nature and humanity, “DAMNATION SPRINGS” is a must-read. It’s a compelling and thought-provoking novel that will stay with you long after you’ve turned the final page.

#BookReview #SheAlwaysReads #DamnationSpring #AshDavidson 

The story follows Edie, a young girl who finds herself stuck between the living and the dead after a tragic accident. As she navigates this liminal space and grapples with her new reality, she must confront her past and come to terms with her untimely death. The exploration of grief, loss, and redemption was poignant and moving. 🌌😢

While the concept of the story was intriguing and the writing was beautifully done, I found the pacing to be a bit slow at times, affecting the overall flow of the narrative. Additionally, I felt that certain character relationships could have been further developed to add depth to the story. ⌛🤔

Despite these critiques, Edie In Between offers a unique and thought-provoking perspective on life, death, and the power of forgiveness. The themes of love, family, and self-discovery shine through in this emotional tale. For readers looking for a contemplative and touching read, this novel may resonate with those seeking a deeper exploration of the human experience. 🌟📖

It was a unique and captivating story that centered around the world of K-pop. 📚🎤

The book follows the journey of Sori and Nathaniel as they navigate the competitive and glamorous world of K-pop, facing challenges and discovering their true passions along the way. The exploration of the K-pop industry and the characters’ personal growth were standout elements of the story. 🎶💫

I did find the pacing to be a bit uneven and wished for more depth in certain character developments, the vibrant setting and the interactions between Sori and Nathaniel kept the story engaging. The themes of friendship, ambition, and self-discovery resonated with many readers. ⏳🤝

Overall, ASAP offers a fresh and immersive look into the world of K-pop, blending music, romance, and personal growth in a captivating narrative. Fans of music-themed stories and coming-of-age tales may find this novel to be a delightful and entertaining read. 🎵💖

Book Review: The Covenant of Water by Abraham Verghese

If you’re looking for an epic family saga filled with rich storytelling and deep emotional currents, this one’s for you!

Set in Kerala, India, the novel spans several decades, following the lives of the members of a matriarchal family dealing with a mysterious condition that causes their loved ones to drown. Talk about a captivating premise! Verghese weaves together the threads of family, love, loss, and the struggle against fate in such a beautifully intricate way. 🌺

What I loved most about this book is how Verghese brings his characters to life. Each member of the family feels distinct and fully realized, from the resilient matriarch to the younger generations who grapple with their identities and the weight of their family’s legacy. The depth of their emotions and the complexity of their relationships make you truly invest in their stories. You laugh, you cry, and you cheer for them as they navigate their challenges.

The setting itself is practically a character in the story. Verghese’s vivid descriptions of Kerala—the lush landscapes, the vibrant culture, and even the monsoon rains—transport you right into the heart of this world. 🌧️🌴 It’s like you can almost feel the humidity and hear the sounds of the bustling streets. I loved how he intertwined the beauty of the setting with the narrative, making it feel alive and integral to the story.

Now, I will say that the pacing can be a bit uneven at times. There are moments where the story flows seamlessly, and then it might slow down as Verghese dives deep into historical context or medical details. But honestly, I found these moments enriching rather than off-putting. It adds layers to the narrative that make the characters’ experiences even more impactful.

Overall, *The Covenant of Water* is a beautifully crafted tale that explores the complexities of family and the ties that bind us, even in the face of tragedy. If you enjoy sweeping narratives filled with rich cultural details, unforgettable characters, and a touch of mystery, this one is definitely worth picking up! 📖💖

Happy reading! 🌊✨

The story follows Macy and Elliot, childhood friends who reconnect years later and must confront their complicated past and feelings for each other. The way Christina Lauren weaves together their history with their present-day relationship is so beautifully done and really tugs at your heartstrings. 👫💕

I was completely swept up in Macy and Elliot’s story, rooting for them every step of the way. The chemistry between them is palpable, and their emotional journey is so raw and real. I found myself laughing, crying, and falling in love right alongside them. 😂😭😍

The writing is absolutely gorgeous, with lyrical prose and poignant moments that just hit you right in the feels. The dual timeline adds depth to the story and gives you a deeper understanding of the characters and their connection. 📝⏳

Overall, Love and Other Words is a beautifully crafted, emotional rollercoaster of a novel that will linger in your heart long after you’ve finished it. If you’re a fan of heartfelt romances with depth and passion, this is a must-read. Trust me, you won’t be able to put it down! 🌟📖