Shivam

So, I’ve finally finished The Final Gambit, the last book in The Inheritance Games series, and… yeah, it was underwhelming. The whole series had potential, but this final book just proved that it never really lived up to it.

This book, like the others, is fast-paced and easy to read. After the halfway mark, it became more interesting than the first two books, and there were a few twists that kept me engaged. The puzzles were a little more creative this time (finally, some variety). The romance was also slightly better, but maybe that’s just because I’ve been reading all three books back to back and got used to it.

But there are a lot of issues. The characters still feel flat and underdeveloped, which made emotional moments fall flat too. The mystery and revelations were mostly predictable. I guessed almost everything before it happened, and when the “big reveals” came, they didn’t feel earned. The family dynamics were all over the place—one moment, something feels important, and the next, it’s brushed aside like it never mattered. No consistency.

The convenience in the puzzles and mysteries was frustrating. Everything was just handed to the characters with minimal effort. Speaking of convenience—how many secret doors does this mansion even have?! Every time something needed to be found, a new secret passageway magically appeared. It became a joke at some point. The ending was the biggest letdown. No tension, no real stakes, no struggle. Everything was just smooth sailing, which made the conclusion feel completely underwhelming.

One of my biggest issues with this whole series is that Avery never truly struggles. Everything works out for her way too easily, which makes the story feel lifeless. The author also spoon-feeds the reader every little detail, as if we’re not capable of figuring things out on our own.

If you’re looking for a light mystery-thriller with a sprinkle of romance, then you might enjoy this. It’s fast-paced, easy to read, and not boring—just don’t expect anything deep, clever, or emotionally gripping. If you’re okay with predictable mysteries, generic characters, and a lack of real stakes, then go for it. But if you want something that truly challenges you or makes you feel something? This series probably isn’t for you.

The Hawthorne Legacy by Jennifer Lynn Barnes was a more engaging read compared to the first book, The Inheritance Games. This time, the mystery and twists kept me more intrigued, and there were plenty of surprises. Some of these twists were genuinely good, while others felt unnecessary and out of place, as if the author was just cramming in as many as possible without proper buildup.

The characters, unfortunately, remained a weak point. They still felt flat and lacked depth, making it hard to connect with any of them. While the romance improved slightly compared to the first book, it was still far from memorable or exciting.

One of my biggest gripes was with the puzzles. They were repetitive and far too similar to those in the first book. It felt like the author didn’t even try to add anything new or creative to this aspect of the story. Considering the puzzles are supposed to be a big selling point of the series, this was a letdown.

That said, the book was incredibly easy and fast to read. After I got halfway through, it became difficult to put down despite its flaws. The pacing was solid, and the story did a good job of keeping me curious enough to finish it. The ending was satisfying, though nothing extraordinary.

Overall, The Hawthorne Legacy was an improvement over the first book in terms of intrigue and twists, but it still had the same issues with underdeveloped characters and lackluster puzzles. I’d rate it 3 out of 5 stars. It’s a fun, light read if you don’t set your expectations too high.

So, I recently picked up Crooked Kingdom, the second book in the Six of Crows duology by Leigh Bardugo. To be honest, I was kind of on the fence about it from the start because, let's face it, fantasy books just aren't my thing. Still, I gave Six of Crows a shot and ended up liking it. It wasn't mind-blowing, but it was decent—especially once the story picked up after the first 50 pages or so.

Fast forward to Crooked Kingdom, and I can't lie—this book just isn't working for me. I'm about 150 pages in, and the excitement I felt in the first book is nowhere to be found. It's not that the writing is bad or that the book itself is flawed. I think the problem is me. This genre doesn't really click with me, and trying to get through a second installment feels like a chore.

I noticed that Crooked Kingdom doesn't seem to have the same momentum as Six of Crows. While the first book eventually grabbed my attention after a slow start, this one hasn't done the same. Even after 150 pages, I'm still waiting for something to hook me, but instead, it's been dragging. I wouldn't say it's boring in the traditional sense, but it feels like nothing is pulling me into the story.

What's making this even harder is that I've never DNFed a book in my life—ever. But this might just be the first one. It's tough to admit because I'm usually someone who powers through, no matter how slow or uninteresting the story gets.

If you're into the fantasy genre or loved Six of Crows, you'll probably enjoy Crooked Kingdom. For me, though, it feels like the wrong book at the wrong time, and I might not have the patience to see it through to the end. It's not the book; it's me.

So, I just finished The Inheritance Games by Jennifer Lynn Barnes, and I have some mixed feelings about it. It’s definitely a fast-paced book, super easy to read, and one of those stories where you can breeze through without much effort. But while it started off okay, it didn’t quite live up to the hype for me.

Let’s start with the positives: the book is quick, and the short chapters make it easy to keep going. It doesn’t feel overwhelming, and if you’re looking for something light, this definitely works. But here’s where things went downhill for me.

First, the characters. I just couldn’t connect with them. They felt generic—like they were there to fill a role in the story rather than being real, interesting people. I kept waiting for them to show some personality or depth, but it never really happened. And because of that, I wasn’t invested in what was happening to them.

Then there’s the mystery. This is a book that’s all about puzzles and secrets, right? And I was expecting this mind-blowing twist or revelation at the end. But honestly, the big reveal just felt… flat. It was predictable, and while the last few chapters were engaging and did manage to hook me, the payoff wasn’t worth the buildup.

Oh, and the romance? Yeah, it’s there, but barely. It felt undercooked, like the author just threw it in because it’s expected, not because it actually added anything to the story.

Another thing that bugged me was all the unnecessary details. It felt like the author was trying to make the book longer just for the sake of it. Some parts felt like filler and didn’t add anything to the plot or characters.

To be honest, I feel like this book was written with a movie or TV adaptation in mind. It’s got that vibe, like it’s more about the visuals and the drama than creating a really engaging story on paper.

All that said, it’s not the worst book I’ve read. It’s fast-paced, and the last chunk of the book did get my attention for a bit. If you go into it with low expectations and just want something light, it might work for you. But for me, it didn’t hit the mark.

I’d give it 2.5 out of 5 stars. I’ll still read the next book in the series to see where it goes, but I’m not in any rush to pick it up.

“The Picture of Dorian Gray” by Oscar Wilde presented a fascinating, albeit challenging, reading experience. Initially, I was captivated by the author's meticulous attention to detail and the vivid portrayal of emotions. However, as the narrative progressed, I found myself increasingly frustrated by the sheer volume of descriptive passages, often feeling that they detracted from the flow of the story.
Chapter 11, in particular, proved to be a significant hurdle. The excessive detail, while perhaps intended to convey the character's inner turmoil, felt unnecessarily drawn out and ultimately hindered my enjoyment. I questioned the necessity of such meticulous descriptions, wondering if a more concise approach would have been more effective.
The narrative took an unexpected turn, which surprised me and injected a new dimension into the story. While I didn't necessarily want the book to become a murder mystery, the shift in focus certainly made it more engaging.
Ultimately, “The Picture of Dorian Gray” offers a thought-provoking exploration of themes such as addiction, ignorance, and the corrupting influence of beauty. While I appreciated the author's ambition, I felt that the execution sometimes fell short, leading to a somewhat uneven reading experience. The book's strengths lie in its intriguing premise and the compelling conclusion, but the excessive detail in certain sections detracted from the overall enjoyment. I would give it a 3 out of 5 stars.
Perhaps I am not fully grasping the nuances of Wilde's writing style or the deeper meaning he intended to convey. Regardless, “The Picture of Dorian Gray” remains a significant work in literature, and I can appreciate the effort and artistry that went into its creation.

Just finished “Six of Crows” and wow, what a ride! The ending really hit the spot with a perfect cliffhanger that has me itching to grab the second book right away.

The story follows six main characters, and honestly, they're what makes this book shine. While the author sometimes gets a bit heavy-handed with the details (like, okay, we get it!), the character dynamics really pull you in. Nina and Matthias's storyline? Absolutely captivating. Their relationship had me hooked from start to finish.

Now, about Kaz - bit of a mixed bag there. The author built him up as this brilliant mastermind early on, and while he did pull off some clever moves, it didn't quite live up to all that initial hype. As for Kaz and Inej's relationship... it's fine, but feels like something we've seen before. Nothing groundbreaking, but still enjoyable enough to keep you reading.

Jasper and Wylan were fun additions to the crew, though we didn't get as much time with them as the others. Would've loved to see more of their dynamic!

People keep comparing this to Ocean's 11 (which I haven't seen), and I can see why - the heist element is super engaging and felt fresh. My one gripe? Never really felt like our crew was in real danger. There was always this sense that they'd find a way out somehow, which took away some of the tension. The plot twists were decent, though if you're paying attention, you might see them coming. They felt a bit rushed - wish the author had built up the suspense more before the big reveals.

What really blew me away was the world-building. Every city, every location is described so vividly you can picture it in your mind. And this is coming from someone who usually isn't big on fantasy!

Rating: 3.5/5 stars

The Bottom Line: Despite some nitpicks, “Six of Crows” is a solid read with great characters and immersive world-building. Already planning to dive into the sequel!

I've just finished reading “Crime and Punishment” by Fyodor Dostoevsky, and what a journey it's been. This book is a real rollercoaster of emotions and experiences. Dostoevsky's skill in getting into characters' heads is truly impressive. The way he portrays the psychological turmoil of the main character after committing murder is intense and believably human. His descriptive powers are off the charts too - you can practically see the gritty, poverty-stricken streets of St. Petersburg and feel the weight of the characters' emotions.

The book starts off a bit slow, but the second half really picks up, diving deep into psychological thriller territory. However, it's not always an easy read. The Russian names are a real challenge to remember and pronounce, which made keeping track of characters a bit of a headache for me. There's also a lot of what feels like unnecessary detail and “waffling” in parts of the book, which can test your patience.

One thing that stood out was Dostoevsky's unique conversation style. Characters often speak in long, unbroken monologues that can be both fascinating and frustrating. It's like the author doesn't want to give you a chance to catch your breath!

Despite these challenges, the book has a way of suddenly grabbing your interest just when you think it's getting boring. It keeps you engaged, even if it's not always comfortable. The ending, in my opinion, was perfect - wrapping up the story in a satisfying way.

Overall, while “Crime and Punishment” met many of my expectations, especially in terms of psychological depth and descriptive power, it was also a bit underwhelming in some aspects. The pacing issues and sometimes excessive detail can be challenging for modern readers.

I'd give it 3.5 out of 5 stars. It's a classic for a reason, but it's not without its quirks. Would I recommend it? Absolutely, especially if you're into deep psychological exploration and don't mind a challenging read. Just be prepared for a bit of a mental workout!​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Hey there! I just finished “As Good As Dead,” the final book in Holly Jackson's “A Good Girl's Guide to Murder” trilogy, and wow, what a ride! This book really cranked things up to eleven.

First off, this book is dark. Like, really dark. It's gripping, chilling, and emotionally intense in a way that surpassed even the first book for me. At 550 pages, it's a chunky read, but trust me, it flies by. The pacing is so good that it never feels like a slog.

Okay, I'll admit, the first 50 pages or so were a bit slow to get going. But once it picks up steam? Hold onto your hats, folks! The story just takes off and doesn't let up. It's divided into two distinct halves - the first part is all about the suspense and mystery we've come to expect from the series, while the second half veers into psychological thriller territory. It's like getting two books for the price of one!

What really blew me away was how well Jackson tied everything together. All those loose ends and clues from the first two books? They all come together in this finale in a way that's just chef's kiss. It makes the whole trilogy feel like one seamless story rather than three separate books. I'm not sure if Jackson planned it all out from the start or if she's just that good at weaving things together, but either way, it's impressive.

The character work in this book is top-notch. You really feel for these people, especially the main character. The way the book handles heavy topics like depression, anxiety, and trauma feels authentic and respectful. It adds a layer of emotional depth that really elevates the story.

Now, if you're expecting the same kind of suspense throughout the whole book, you might be a bit let down by the second half. It's a different kind of tension - more psychological than mystery-based. But personally, I was here for it. The whole thing felt like watching an intense movie unfold in my mind.

Overall, I'd give this book 4 out of 5 stars. Sure, there were a few tiny nitpicks here and there, but they're so minor they're hardly worth mentioning. This book, and indeed the whole trilogy, exceeded my expectations in the best way possible.

If you've read the first two books, you absolutely need to finish the trilogy with this one. And if you haven't started the series yet? Well, what are you waiting for? The experience of reading all three books is just amazing. Highly recommended for anyone who loves a good mystery with a dark edge!​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Hey everyone! I just finished “Good Girl, Bad Blood,” the second book in Holly Jackson's “A Good Girl's Guide to Murder” series, and I've got some thoughts to share.

First off, this book picks up right where the first one left off, which is great for continuity. It ties up some loose ends from the first book while introducing a new mystery. I appreciate how Jackson managed to keep the familiar elements that made the first book work while still giving us something fresh.

The writing style remains consistent, which is a big plus. It's still engaging and easy to read, making it perfect for a binge-reading session. The main character and her sidekick continue to have great chemistry, which really helps drive the story forward.

However, I have to say, I liked the first book a bit more. The mystery in this one felt a little less gripping compared to its predecessor. Don't get me wrong, it's still good, but it didn't quite reach the same heights as the first book.

One area where I felt this book fell a bit short was in character development, especially for the new characters introduced. They didn't feel as fleshed out as I would have liked. The pacing is still fast overall, but there were a few spots where it felt like it dragged a bit.

The book still has its share of shocking moments, but I found the clues a bit more obvious this time around. In the first book, the hints were subtle and cleverly hidden. Here, if you're reading carefully, you might find yourself guessing the ending a bit too easily.

On the plus side, the emotional aspects of the story are well-handled, and there's a nice touch of romance woven throughout. The ending was satisfying, and despite my criticisms, the overall story is still very good.

I'd rate this book 3.5 out of 5 stars. It's a solid sequel that fans of the first book will likely enjoy. While it may not quite live up to the high bar set by its predecessor, it's still a very enjoyable read with strong characters and an intriguing plot.

If you loved the first book, definitely give this one a shot. It might not blow you away, but it's a worthy continuation of the series that'll keep you entertained from start to finish.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Hey there! So, I just finished “A Good Girl's Guide to Murder” by Holly Jackson, and wow, what a ride! This book really surprised me in the best way possible.

First off, this book is like a buffet of genres - you've got murder mystery, thriller, suspense, and even a dash of romance. It's got a little something for everyone, and somehow it all works together brilliantly.

What really stood out to me was the writing style. Jackson has this unique way of presenting the story that makes you feel like you're right there, conducting the investigation alongside the main character. It's immersive and engaging, pulling you deeper into the mystery with each page.

The characters in this book feel incredibly real and relatable. I found myself genuinely caring about them and their stories. The connections between characters develop organically, which adds another layer of authenticity to the narrative.

Now, let's talk about the mystery itself. While it might not have made me scream out loud in shock, it definitely had its “Oh my God, what just happened?” moments. There are these mini-surprises scattered throughout the story that keep you on your toes. And here's the cool part - if you're paying close attention, you might just pick up on some subtle clues about the main culprit. It's like the author is challenging you to solve the case alongside the protagonist.

One of the best things about this book is how easy it is to read. Once you start, it's hard to put down. The pacing is spot-on, keeping you engaged from start to finish. It's the kind of book that makes you lose track of time because you're so absorbed in the story.

I'd rate this book 4 out of 5 stars. While it might not be absolutely perfect, it's pretty darn close. It's definitely up there with some of the best YA mysteries I've read.

Hey there! So, I just finished reading “The Fellowship of the Ring” by J.R.R. Tolkien, and I thought I'd jot down my thoughts. Keep in mind, I'm not usually into fantasy books, but I decided to give this a shot since it's such a classic.

First off, this was my introduction to proper fantasy literature, and I've got to say, it kind of confirmed my suspicions that fantasy might not be my cup of tea. Don't get me wrong, the book wasn't bad – it just didn't blow me away.

The story follows Frodo, a hobbit who inherits a powerful ring and sets off on a journey to destroy it. Sounds exciting, right? Well, it kind of is, but also kind of isn't. The whole book felt like one long walking tour through Middle-earth. We meet new characters, visit different kingdoms, and face some dangers along the way. It's definitely an adventure, but sometimes I found myself thinking, “Okay, but when is something really going to happen?”

I will say that I enjoyed the characters and their interactions. Tolkien does a great job of making you feel like you're part of the fellowship. The friendships, the bravery, the scary moments – it all feels very real. But for me, the plot itself was a bit thin. It's basically “hobbit finds ring, hobbit must destroy ring” stretched out over hundreds of pages.

The writing style is pretty easy to follow, which I appreciated. However, I did struggle with remembering all the names of people and places. Seriously, does every character and location need such a complicated name?

By the end of the book, I wasn't super excited to pick up the next one in the series. I mean, I can see why people love it – the world-building is impressive, and there's a sense of epic scale to everything. But for me, it just didn't click in a way that made me want to invest more time in the story.

I'd give it 3 out of 5 stars. It's well-written and I can appreciate why it's a classic, but it didn't quite hit the mark for me personally. If you're into fantasy or want to check out a cornerstone of the genre, go for it! But if you're like me and prefer books with more straightforward plots, maybe think twice before diving in.

Remember, this is just my take as a casual reader. Millions of people absolutely love this book, so don't let my opinion stop you if you're curious about it!​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Just finished “White Nights” by Dostoevsky, and man, what a ride! First off, word of advice: don't read the synopsis if you can help it. My copy had spoilers in it, which kinda sucked.

This book hit me right in the feels. I totally connected with the main character – his emotions were so relatable, maybe not as intense as his, but close enough that I almost teared up a few times. It's a quick read, only about 60-70 pages, so you can knock it out in one sitting if you're feeling it.

Dostoevsky's writing is something else. The way he captures emotions is just... wow. You literally feel what the characters are going through. The psychological stuff in this book is insane, in a good way.

That said, I gave it 3 out of 5 stars. Don't get me wrong, it's good, but I wanted more. The relationship between the characters felt a bit rushed, and I wish it was longer so we could see things develop more. I know it's a novella, so I can't complain too much, but still – I was left wanting more from the characters and their connections.

Overall, it's a solid, heart-wrenching read that'll make you feel things. Just be prepared for it to end before you're ready to let go.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Just finished “Gone Girl” by Gillian Flynn and holy shit, what a ride! This book is absolutely insane in the best way possible. I couldn't put it down - it was like a crazy binge-reading session from start to finish.

Even though I saw the movie ages ago (like 10-11 years back), I barely remembered the plot. But man, this book had me hooked. The story is so gripping and intense, it kept me on the edge of my seat the whole time. Flynn's writing is just chef's kiss - amazing.

The characters? Totally fucked up, but in a brilliant way. I mean, “Amazing Amy”? More like Psycho Amy, am I right? But that's what makes it so good. The suspense had me going “what the actual fuck” every other page.

Now, I gotta be real - it did drag a tiny bit in the middle. But honestly, that's just me nitpicking. The ending? Perfection. It wrapped up in a way that left me both satisfied and slightly disturbed (in a good way, if that makes sense).

Overall, this book was a total mindfuck, and I loved every second of it. Solid 4.5 stars out of 5 from me. If you're into thrillers that'll mess with your head, “Gone Girl” is a must-read. Just be prepared to lose sleep because you won't want to stop reading!​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

So, I just finished “Sapiens” by Yuval Noah Harari, and honestly, it was a bit of a slog. Don't get me wrong, I can see why people rave about it, but it just wasn't my cup of tea.

First off, this book is looong. Like, way too long. 450 pages? Come on, Harari, ever heard of editing? It could've easily been trimmed down to 300 pages without losing much. There were times I seriously considered giving up, but I pushed through because of all the hype.

The amount of detail in this book is overwhelming. Maybe I'm not the target audience, but there's so much information that I found myself not really caring about. It gets repetitive too, with some points being hammered home over and over.

I've got some beef with some of Harari's takes. Like, claiming the British Empire peacefully gave independence to its colonies? That's a bit of a stretch. And comparing violence levels between eras by just looking at numbers? It feels like it's disregarding the value of individual lives in the past.

To be fair, the book is packed with information, and I can see how history buffs or anthropology enthusiasts might love it. But for me, right now, it was just too much. Maybe I'll give it another shot in a few years when I'm in a different headspace.

If you're super into this kind of deep dive into human history and don't mind a hefty read, you might want to check it out. But if you're looking for a light, breezy read about human history, this ain't it.

For now, I'm chalking this up as “not for me” and moving on to something a bit more my speed. Maybe I'll revisit it someday, but for now, it's a 2 out of 5 for me.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

So, I just finished “The Palace of Illusions” and honestly, it's a mixed bag for me. The first 50 pages? Pretty good. The last 100 pages? Actually enjoyable. But that middle part? Man, it was so repetitive and boring that I wanted to just quit.

If the author was trying to show feminism or women's empowerment, I don't think she did a good job. And here's what really bugged me - it felt like the author just wanted to write a love story between Panchali and Karna, which isn't even in the original Mahabharata. But she knew she couldn't completely change the original, so instead she just shoved Karna into every freaking page. It's supposed to be a retelling, but why change something that wasn't in the original? To me, it just looked like the author's fantasy.

Also, I'm not a fan of the writing. Sometimes it's so repetitive and uneven that it put me off reading. I think the author was confused about what she wanted to say with this book. Really, I don't know what the purpose of this book is, or maybe I'm just too dumb to get it.

The only interesting part was the last hundred pages, and that's just because it was about the war. I've already watched the Mahabharata TV Show, so this didn't really add much for me.

In the end, I'd give this book 2.5 stars out of 5. It had its moments, but overall, it was more frustrating than anything else.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Just wrapped up “Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow” by Gabrielle Zevin, and wow, what a ride!

This book had me hooked from start to finish. I was all in, feeling everything - happy, sad, even ticked off at the characters sometimes (in a good way, you know?). Couldn't stop thinking about it, even when I wasn't reading.

At first, I was like, “Where's the romance?” But then the friendship thing really grew on me. The way these three main characters vibe together? It's something else. And yeah, there's some romance, but not your typical stuff.

Being a gamer myself, I geeked out over all the video game industry bits. It was cool to see how games get made and all that behind-the-scenes stuff.

Characters-wise, Marx stole the show for me. Dude had me feeling all kinds of emotions. I related more to Sam ‘cause we're both introverts, but Marx? He just hit different.

This was exactly the change-up I needed from all the romance I've been reading. The world-building is on point, and Zevin throws in all these little details that make it feel real. Plus, the writing's not complicated, which is always a win.

If I had to rate it, I'd give it a solid 4 out of 5. Yeah, there were a few slow bits, but honestly? I didn't mind. The rest of it more than made up for it.

If you're looking to switch things up from your usual reads, give this one a shot. It's got friendship, creativity, and a whole lot of heart. Definitely worth your time!

Alright, I've just finished “Normal People” by Sally Rooney, and let me tell you, this book is an absolute banger!

First off, I gotta say, this has shot straight to the top of my favorites list. I've only read about 20 books so far, but man, this one's the cream of the crop. I couldn't put it down - seriously, I was itching to pick it up every time I had to stop reading.

The characters? They got me hook, line, and sinker. Even though I'm not exactly like them, I felt their struggles in my bones. And it wasn't just the main duo - every character had me caring about them. Rooney's got a knack for making you feel like you know these people.

Now, I'd seen the TV show before (which, by the way, is also top-notch), but the book still had me glued to the pages. There's just something about Rooney's writing, you know? Every single line felt important - no filler here!

One part that really got me in the feels was when Connell opened up about his mental health. That monologue? Waterworks, I'm telling you. It hit hard.

Compared to “Beautiful World, Where Are You” (Rooney's other book I've read), this one's my jam. Don't get me wrong, they're both about people figuring themselves out, but “Normal People” just clicked with me more.

Oh, and the ending? It's open-ended, which I dig. Lets you imagine what might happen next.

Bottom line: five stars, no question. Would I recommend it? Hell yeah, to everyone and their dog. Whether you've seen the show or not, do yourself a favor and read this book. It's the real deal.

Just finished “Beautiful World, Where Are You” by Sally Rooney, and honestly, it's a bit of a mixed bag.

First off, it took me a while to get into it. The first 50 pages were a bit of a slog, but once I connected with the characters, things picked up. Rooney's got a knack for creating interesting people – I found myself really invested in their stories and struggles.

Now, let's talk about the elephant in the room: the social and political commentary. Look, I get what Rooney's trying to do, showing how these characters think about the world and all. But man, it felt so disconnected from the actual story. Every time it popped up, it yanked me right out of the plot. Not a fan of how that was handled.

Character-wise, Eileen and Simon's relationship had me hooked. Alice and Felix? Not so much. Felt like their romance needed more deapth.

The book's structure was pretty cool – switching between regular chapters and emails. Never seen that before, but it worked for me.

Gotta say, some of the themes hit close to home. The loneliness, the feeling that no one likes you, wondering if you could do better in life – yeah, I felt that. Made the characters super relatable.

In the end, I'd give it 3.5 out of 5 stars. The characters and relatable themes pulled it up, but the distracting social commentary knocked it down a peg.

Would I read more Rooney? Maybe. I've got “Normal People” sitting on my shelf, so I'll probably give that a go. But if it's packed with the same kind of disjointed social commentary, I might have to call it quits on Rooney after that.

Bottom line: It's a decent read if you're into character-driven stories and don't mind some philosophical musings thrown in. Just be prepared for some random societal deep dives that might throw you off your reading groove.

As my first foray into Murakami's world, “Kafka on the Shore” proved to be an intriguing, if occasionally perplexing, read. This 500-page novel is a character-driven narrative that weaves together two parallel storylines, creating a tapestry of the real and the fantastical.

Murakami's writing style is undeniably unique - a blend of the weird, the imaginative, and the comforting. The author crafts a diverse cast of characters, each contributing significantly to the unfolding story. The dual narrative structure, following two distinct characters, adds depth to the tale, gradually revealing unexpected connections.

However, as a newcomer to Murakami's work, I found the story challenging to follow at times. The book touches on some dark and taboo subjects, which might catch some readers off guard. There were also moments where the portrayal of women felt objectifying, though I'd need to read more of Murakami's work to determine if this is a pattern.

Despite occasional lulls in the 500-page journey, the compelling narrative kept me engaged. The ending, while open to interpretation, left me craving more closure. This open-endedness, while thought-provoking, may not satisfy readers who prefer more concrete resolutions.

“Kafka on the Shore” is a book that likely rewards multiple readings, with layers of meaning to unpack. While I plan to revisit it in the future, I would caution against making this your first Murakami experience. It's a good and interesting read, but its complexity and unconventional structure might be better appreciated after familiarizing oneself with Murakami's style through his other works.

In conclusion, “Kafka on the Shore” offers a unique, often bizarre literary journey. It's a book that will make you think, occasionally puzzle you, but ultimately leave an indelible impression. For readers willing to embrace the unconventional, it promises a rich, if sometimes challenging, experience.

So, I just finished “Becoming” by Michelle Obama, and I gotta say, it was pretty interesting. Just to be clear, I'm not really into politics at all - it's actually kinda boring to me. I picked up this book mostly ‘cause I was curious about the struggles of Black people and how Barack became the first Black president.

Honestly, I ended up really enjoying it. It's weird, but I actually got goosebumps a few times while reading - that's never happened to me before with a book! The pacing was good, and there were some nice bits of wisdom scattered throughout.

The book covers Michelle's whole journey from childhood to leaving the White House as First Lady. It was pretty interesting to read about her struggles and what America was like back then. The main theme seems to be Michelle constantly asking herself, “Am I good enough?” She had to prove herself to everyone because she was a Black woman.

A couple things bugged me though. Sometimes it felt like she was harping on about race a bit too much. I get that it's important, but it got a little repetitive for me. There were some other parts that dragged on too.

Overall though, it was a good read. I'd recommend it even if you're not into politics. I'd give it 3.5 out of 5 stars.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Wow, I just finished “The Women Who Stole My Life” by Marian Keyes, and I've gotta say, it was a struggle to get through. 500 pages of pure frustration? Check. Boring plot? Double check.

Let's start with the characters - or should I say, the lack of character development. It felt like Keyes had a vague outline and just threw in whatever popped into her head. The result? A repetitive mess with a writing style that left a lot to be desired.

And don't even get me started on the main character. Without giving away spoilers, her decisions were so infuriating that I found myself wanting to throw the book across the room. How many times can you yell “Why?!” at a page before you lose your mind?

The plot conveniences were off the charts. I mean, seriously? How is any of this supposed to make sense? And backstory? What backstory? It's like Keyes forgot that readers might want to know, oh I don't know, why things are happening?

There were a few funny moments sprinkled throughout, but they were so few and far between that they definitely weren't worth slogging through the rest of the book for.

I'm feeling generous, so I'll give it two stars instead of one. There were a couple of redeeming qualities, but they were about as rare as finding a four-leaf clover in a concrete jungle.

In short, unless you're a masochist who enjoys literary torture, you might want to give this one a hard pass.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Alright, so I just finished “Starters for 10” by David Nicholas, and let me tell you, it was a bit of a rollercoaster. It's basically a coming-of-age story about a young guy trying to navigate his way through early adulthood, with a hefty dose of romance thrown in.

Not gonna lie, the first few chapters were a drag. I mean, I get it, the author was trying to set everything up, introduce characters, and all that jazz, but man, was I bored. The writing style? It's a mixed bag. Sometimes it feels fast-paced and you're flying through pages, but other times it really drags. The highs are pretty high, but the lows? They're down there.

One thing that really bugged me was the main character, Brian. He's supposed to be this relatable, awkward guy, but sometimes he's just plain frustrating. He makes some pretty questionable decisions, especially when it comes to chasing after this girl who seems to have no personality beyond being beautiful. It's like, come on, dude, get it together!

But try to hang in there, because once you push through that slow start, this book does pick up. The middle part? Pretty solid. I found myself laughing out loud at times – it's got some genuinely funny moments. And some of the characters do grow on you, even if Brian can be a bit much.

Now, let's talk about the romance, which is a major theme here. I'm not usually big on mushy stuff, and honestly, this love story isn't exactly groundbreaking. It's cute at times, but also kind of shallow and predictable.

If you're into coming-of-age stories with a dose of British humor, this might be up your alley. It's all about university life, first loves, and finding yourself – you know, the usual young adult stuff, but with a quirky twist.

But here's the kicker – the ending. Oh boy, the ending. I was starting to enjoy the journey, but then the author just had to go and drop the ball. I'm not even exaggerating when I say it pissed me off. It was so disappointing and out of left field, I couldn't believe it.

Despite the issues – the slow start, Brian's annoying moments, and that letdown ending – I'd still give it 3 out of 5 stars. It's got enough fun parts to make it a decent read, especially if you've been through (or are about to go through) university, or just enjoy a laugh at the awkwardness of young adulthood. But maybe borrow it from the library rather than buying it outright.

So, yeah, overall, it was an okay read with some good moments and some not-so-great ones. It's not going to change your life, but it might entertain you for a bit – just don't expect too much from the ending.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

So, I just finished “Eleanor & Park” and honestly, I really enjoyed it. The romance between Eleanor and Park? Beautiful stuff. Yeah, it got a bit cringey sometimes, but hey, it's about teen love, so what can you expect?

The main characters really grew on me. I found myself caring about both Eleanor and Park, feeling what they were going through. But the other characters? Not so much. The author kinda left them in the background.

Now, the book does touch on bullying, which is important, but here's my issue - it doesn't really show how to deal with it. It's like everyone in the story just... accepts it? That bugged me a bit.

Sometimes the story dragged on - I reckon they could've cut like 20 or 30 pages and it wouldn't have hurt. But overall, it was a good read, especially if you're into romance.

The ending was... well, good. Not amazing, not terrible, just good. I liked it well enough.

So yeah, if you're looking for a romance book, give it a shot. It's got some weak points, sure, but by the time you finish it, you'll probably feel it was worth it. At least I did.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Some books you read because someone recommended you or you read because you always wanted to read the book. But sometimes you read the book because you liked its name or synopsis or most of the time its cover. I know most people say don't read the book only because you like its cover, but thank god I bought this book. In some way this book ended my reading slum, for quite sometimes I wasn't able to pick a book and read it. But when I pick this book, then and there my reading slum ended. I only had one book on my favorite list and now it increased to two.

I read some reviews people are saying “Ohh this book is so funny, so charming, so sad at the same time blah, blah, blah” but for me this book was comforting. People have one book which is comfortable for them to read at any time, for me this is that book. I mean its humor is so pure that you always throughout the book will have a grin face, even when there is something sad this book will not shy away to make you laugh at the situation. Here author is not trying to make you laugh by jokes or anything but the situation itself makes you laugh. I always laughs at the Patrick'The Lanky One's situation, he is my favorite character in this book.

Alright now let's talk about the sad part. I am the type of person who does not cry while watching movies or while reading books. But this book will break your heart. You know what is going to happen next but still you will not be able to control yourself from being sad and your eyes will fill with tears. The romantic angle between Ove and Sonja is so genuine and real, it really melts your heart. When this line came up “Maybe neither of them forgave themselves for not being able to give the women they loved more than anything what they wanted more than anything” I stopped took a moment or few, lift my finger up slide it through my eyes and wipe my tears off.

This book neither tries to force you to laugh or cry. But this emotion automatically affects you. Because the author “Fredrik Backman” has done such a good job that from the very beginning he makes you connects with the character ‘Ove' so whatever Ove is feeling you are feeling with him. There are so many character that you attach yourself with Parvaneh, Anita, Jimmy and many more but i not going to spoil your experience by telling you about these character. I want you to experience these feelings yourself that's why I didn't talk much about the content of the book or about the character. This book is not about that, its about the journey you go through, the emotions you go through with Ove.

If you search for the best non-fiction (business) books list, the one that is popular even today is “Rich Dad, Poor Dad” and after reading it, I understand why. It's one of the best books on finance and it changed my perspective of looking at money.

Told in an interesting and engaging manner, Robert Kiyosaki advocates the importance of financial literacy. By using anecdotes from his life and the lessons he learned from his two father figures, the author explains the difference between the mindset of rich and poor regarding money.

In this book, the author points out the traditional mistakes people make while handling their finances and how the educational system does not focus on financial literacy. Therefore, he encourages people to learn about accounting, financial market, taxes and investing.

One of the fascinating things that stands out in this book is the stark difference between the point of view of the rich and poor person of looking at money. The rich dad sees money in a positive light which is at odds with the popular opinion about money.

Overall, this is an informative book. It made me interested in learning about finance and managing money in a better way. If you want to learn about finance, I highly recommend this book.