Katrina
Really lovely verse, interesting take on a myth that ties in to another story. Would recommend.
This is a thematically tough read. Thankfully, there is lots of beautiful language to hold it up and see the reader through. I don't think the structure, while unique, personally worked for me. At about 80% the twist kind of started twisting and I didn't particularly like how it played out. For me, the strength of the novel was in the characterization of some of the main players. It felt like you were going on this journey with Manny and my heart was in my throat about it. Due to the content, I probably wouldn't give this book to someone unless they specifically asked for this type of story.
It had the right set-up, but I never really connected with these characters. Entertaining, if somewhat predictable. The stakes seemed to oscillate between not high enough or too high if that makes sense?
I found this highly impactful. I'm not sure what else to say about it other than the format was inspired and the characters made my heart hurt. I'm hoping this book gets to the readers who need it.
This was so so cute. I loved the art, I loved the sentiment, and I loved the multitude of cheesy puns.
Thanks to the publisher and Libro.fm for the ALC!
This was a trip! As a reference librarian and former circulation worker, some of the library interactions had me wanting to cry with laughter at the accuracy. Short and tense, this novel kept me hooked. I really enjoyed the narration as well. Worth the listen if you like psychological thrillers with a creepy edge.
Entertaining fantasy world with an unnecessarily convoluted plot. I really liked the cast of characters, and deeply appreciated the inherent queerness of the world. There was some very solid dialogue that occasionally got bogged down by confusing descriptions. Overall, I enjoyed the story.
This book was inventive, creepy, and immersive. It gave me strong Diviners vibes, although I think January's incredible narration made the connection feel even stronger. If you don't mind some weirdness in your fantasy and you appreciate metaphor, this is a solid pick.
What an achingly gorgeous book. Highly recommend to anyone who has loved someone, lost someone, or found some solace in a passion.
Honestly, so adorable. Bobby is over the top and maybe in over his head, but my goodness is he an engaging character. This was queer and romantic and sometimes silly (Gladys killed me) and overall a very enjoyable read.
A very unique reading experience that resonates. I'll read anything Reynolds is involved in, and I wasn't disappointed.
A fascinating and talented woman! I loved the art showcased in this book. Some of the poems I found very effective, but more often than not I was frustrated by voice changes, time skips, and general vagueness. There was a lot to unpack, but I'm glad I read it and I'd like to learn more about her life and work.
Well written and relatable essays that will resonate, especially with teen girls of color.
Many thanks to Edelweiss and the publisher for a digital arc of this book!
I was thrilled to have the opportunity to hear Nijkamp speak about their work, and I actually appreciated it way more after hearing their thoughts. Honestly I think they're a great person and I will be on the look out for future titles. That being said, this was not the story for me. I think that probably had more to do with not being in the mood for a “pandemic story”. I lost track of some of the characters, even though I liked the fact there were multiple mcs/narrators. Would definitely still recommend this to teens.
Way too much going on and yet I feel like nothing happened? Very shaky world building, too many character perspectives with confusing transitions, very difficult to build empathy for these characters. Some serious cringe. I would see this author's other works instead and skip this entirely if you were looking for a fantasy. Sorry
Exquisitely written and so interesting. Highly recommend to any historical fiction reader.
I really enjoyed listening to this! Bits of truth and wisdom from a life being lived well is always interesting to me.
Totally floored me. Lyrical, heart-breaking, and infused with wisdom. Highly recommend.
And the second time around was just as impactful. Wow.
Twisty page-turner as advertised! I guess I should have known there were some heavy topics coming in, but the author does a great job of writing a range of characters you come to care for/hate/be disgusted by. I am a sucker for strong sister bonds, so that part got me right there. I was also so impressed by the bond between the three teens and all the different kinds of love they embody so fiercely. On another note, it was a delightful surprise to see some representation of endometriosis in YA (or any novel for that matter)! For something so common, it's so rarely talked about with candor and empathy. Would recommend to older teens and fans of books like “Sadie” or “I Killed Zoe Spanos”.
Not for the faint of heart! This was a thrilling story that went above and beyond “girl lost in the woods”.
Well that was devastating. And also hopeful. Many thanks to Rex Ogle for telling this story so eloquently.
Thanks to the publisher and Libro.fm for the alc!
Honestly, adorable. I loved how playful the author was with fantasy tropes, and the characters were endearing. Solid narration. I would pick up another volume of this cozy, tongue-in-cheek fantasy series.