beriboo's Reviews (411)

DNF’d halfway through but had to mark as finished because it’s part of a Reading Challenge.

I just didn’t like these characters at all. Roy is old fashioned to the point I had to check what decade the book is based in because of his views on women and marriage. 

Dre is the standard “nice guy” who has faked a friendship with a women who he actually wants to be with and feels like he has a right to her because of this.

But Celestial is the worst, she is self-centred and the result of raising a spoilt brat for a child. A person she loves is wrongfully convicted and sent to prison and she just walks away. It all of a sudden became too inconvenient for her, and how and when she tells Roy this is just awful.

I think the main thing about all of this that put me off is that I don’t think the author intended them to be such unlikeable characters. I think the idea is that we connect and empathise with them.

But I hated them, I hated what  Celestial and Dre where doing and I’d had enough so DNF’d

"Fire Rush" by Jacqueline Crooks is an exquisite tapestry of storytelling that immerses readers in the vibrant world of Jamaican culture and the diaspora in 1970s England, pulsating with life, love, and the fire within. Crooks weaves a narrative that dances between history, culture, and the deeply personal, creating a mesmerising literary experience.

One of the book's standout strengths is Crooks' mastery in the art of character description. Each character in "Fire Rush" is vividly brought to life, with a level of detail that makes them feel like old friends or terrifying threats. The nuances of their personalities, desires, and struggles are so meticulously portrayed that you can almost hear their voices and feel their presence. Even for those characters that are the "villains" in the story, Crooks' ability to write such depth to these characters results in an understanding towards their behaviour, even though you hold a strong feeling of dislike. 

At the heart of the story is the remarkable main character, Yamaye. Crooks not only crafts a protagonist but a living, breathing soul. The love for Yamaye is palpable throughout the narrative, as the author skillfully delves into her innermost thoughts and emotions. You don't just read about Yamaye; you feel her joys, sorrows, and triumphs as if they were your own. The connection with her is so profound that you can't help but root for her at every twist and turn.

One of the most captivating aspects of "Fire Rush" is the use of patois in the prose. Crooks seamlessly incorporates the Jamaican patois into the dialogue and narration, adding an authentic and rhythmic layer to the narrative. This linguistic choice not only enhances the cultural richness of the story but also immerses the reader more deeply into the characters' lives. The patois becomes a vibrant and expressive tool, capturing the cadence of everyday life and enriching the narrative with the true essence of Jamaican culture. 

The prose in "Fire Rush" is nothing short of poetic. Crooks employs a lyrical and rhythmic style that elevates the narrative to a sensory experience. The words flow with an almost musical quality, enhancing the reader's immersion into the rich tapestry of Jamaican culture and history. The beauty of the prose lies not only in what is said but in how it is said, evoking emotions that linger long after the final page is turned.

However, the story falls just shy of a perfect 5-star rating due to the inclusion of some instances of sexual violence halfway through the book. While not pervasive, these scenes were personally unsettling, and they affected my overall enjoyment of an otherwise beautifully crafted narrative. This is, of course, a subjective response, but it is worth noting for readers who may share similar sensitivities. 

In conclusion, "Fire Rush" is a triumph in storytelling. Jacqueline Crooks has crafted a narrative that not only paints a vivid picture of Jamaica but also captures the essence of the human spirit. With characters that leap off the page, a protagonist who becomes a cherished companion, and prose that dances with grace, "Fire Rush" is a literary gem that will leave readers yearning for more.

I recently finished reading "Do No Harm" by Jack Jordan, and I must say, it left me quite disappointed. While I appreciate the effort put into crafting a psychological thriller, the overall execution fell flat, earning it a mere 2-star rating from me.

First and foremost, the storyline was simply absurd. I found it difficult to suspend my disbelief as the plot unfolded, with numerous improbable twists and turns that strained the boundaries of plausibility. It felt as though the author was more focused on creating shock value rather than constructing a coherent and believable narrative. This lack of realism greatly hindered my ability to become fully invested in the story.

The biggest issue I had with this book was my complete lack of emotional connection to the main characters, Anna and Margo. Despite the author's attempts to make them relatable and sympathetic, I found myself indifferent to their plights. Their actions and motivations felt contrived and unconvincing, leaving me detached from their struggles. As a result, I couldn't bring myself to care about their well-being or the outcomes of their predicaments.

Furthermore, the inclusion of the police storyline felt entirely unnecessary. It seemed like an afterthought, clumsily shoehorned into the plot to create a false sense of suspense. The constant back-and-forth between the personal struggles of the characters and the police investigation only served to muddle the narrative further. It would have been far more effective to focus solely on developing a compelling psychological thriller without the unnecessary distractions.

All in all, "Do No Harm" left much to be desired. The absurd storyline, coupled with my apathy towards the characters and the unnecessary police subplot, made for a disappointing reading experience. While there were moments of tension and suspense, they were overshadowed by the overall lack of cohesiveness and believability. If you're looking for a psychological thriller that captivates and engages, I would suggest looking elsewhere.

"The IT Girl by Ruth Ware: Falls Short of Thrilling Expectations"

Rating: 2.5/5 stars

"The IT Girl" by Ruth Ware promised an enticing mystery, yet it fell short of delivering the thrilling suspense it initially hinted at. The narrative steers away from the conventional thriller track, focusing more on Hannah grappling with the aftermath of April's death than building a gripping suspenseful atmosphere. While the premise of murder should inherently evoke tension, the story's focus on Hannah's coping process seemed to dilute the thriller aspect.

One of the significant letdowns was the lack of a strong connection with the characters. Despite the intense emotional turmoil that should have bonded the reader to Hannah, I found it challenging to truly empathise or engage with her. The bond between April and Hannah, which should have been the heart of the story, failed to evoke the depth needed to justify Hannah's consuming obsession with April after a prolonged period.

The novel had the potential to delve into the psychological nuances of dealing with trauma and loss, but it failed to capitalise on this aspect, leaving the reader wanting a deeper exploration of the character's emotions and motivations. The absence of a strong connection or understanding of the characters made it difficult to become fully invested in the unfolding events.

While the premise had promise, "The IT Girl" struggled to deliver the anticipated thrill and depth, leaving the reader detached from the characters and their motivations. For those seeking a gripping, edge-of-your-seat thriller, this might not hit the mark.

"The Picture of Dorian Gray" by Oscar Wilde is a haunting and thought-provoking masterpiece that delves into the dark corners of the human psyche. Wilde's ability to create an eerie and unsettling atmosphere is commendable, immersing readers in a world filled with moral dilemmas, forbidden desires, and the consequences of unchecked vanity.

From the very beginning, Wilde's prose captivates the reader, effortlessly weaving a complex web of emotions and desires. The vivid descriptions transport us to the opulent and hedonistic world of Victorian London, where beauty and pleasure reign supreme. The author's knack for dialogue is evident, with characters engaging in witty banter that adds depth and realism to their personalities.

One of the most intriguing aspects of this novel is the exploration of the human obsession with youth, beauty, and eternal pleasure. Through the character of Dorian Gray, Wilde forces us to confront our own desires and the lengths we would go to maintain our youthful appearance. The concept of the portrait aging while Dorian remains untouched is a powerful metaphor for the toll that unchecked vanity and hedonism can take on one's soul.

The moral dilemmas presented throughout the story leave a lasting impact on the reader. Wilde skillfully examines the consequences of living a life devoid of moral responsibility, as Dorian's actions become increasingly heinous and his soul becomes irreparably corrupted. The novel raises important questions about the nature of good and evil, and the boundaries of human morality.

The characters in "The Picture of Dorian Gray" are unforgettable. Dorian Gray himself is a complex and deeply flawed protagonist, whose descent into darkness is both fascinating and disturbing. Lord Henry Wotton, with his cynical worldview and persuasive charm, serves as a catalyst for Dorian's transformation. Basil Hallward, the artist who paints Dorian's portrait, represents the voice of reason and morality, offering a stark contrast to the hedonistic influences that surround Dorian.

While the novel is a remarkable piece of literature, it does have a few minor shortcomings. The pacing can be uneven at times, with certain sections feeling slightly drawn out. Additionally, the ending may leave some readers wanting more closure or a deeper exploration of the consequences of Dorian's actions.

In conclusion, "The Picture of Dorian Gray" is a must-read for those who appreciate dark and thought-provoking literature. Oscar Wilde's ability to create an eerie atmosphere, explore complex moral dilemmas, and craft unforgettable characters is truly commendable.

*Full Disclosure - possibly at the start of a book burnout while reading this one*

"As Long as the Lemon Trees Grow" by Zoulfa Katouh attempts to weave a tale of cultural richness and familial bonds, set against a backdrop of tradition and change. However, the execution of the narrative falls short of capturing the depth and complexity promised by its premise.

The story's pacing feels uneven, leading to a disjointed reading experience that struggles to maintain engagement. While the cultural elements and the vivid setting offer glimpses of potential, the character development remains shallow, hindering the emotional connection readers might seek in a familial saga.

Moreover, the plot lacks a cohesive flow, leaving threads unresolved or hastily concluded, contributing to a sense of dissatisfaction by the book's conclusion. Ultimately, while the premise held promise, "As Long as the Lemon Trees Grow" fails to deliver a fully immersive or satisfying narrative.

"Klara and the Sun" by Kazuo Ishiguro delves into profound themes, offering a unique perspective on artificial intelligence and human relationships. Ishiguro's writing is eloquent, drawing readers into Klara's world and sparking contemplation on the nature of consciousness and empathy.

However, the novel's strength in its introspective journey falters slightly in its conclusion. The ending lacks the impactful resonance that one might anticipate, feeling somewhat subdued and inconclusive. While the open-ended nature might appeal to some, others may find it leaves a sense of incompleteness, especially after investing in Klara's emotional journey throughout the book.

Despite this, the thought-provoking exploration of humanity and technology, coupled with Ishiguro's masterful storytelling, makes "Klara and the Sun" a worthwhile read. Although the ending might not leave a lasting impression, the depth of the narrative and the questions it raises linger in the mind long after the final page.

"The Sanctuary" by Andrew Hunter Murray presents a fascinating premise in a world besieged by environmental catastrophe. The author's skilful world-building and intricate attention to detail create an immersive setting that captivates the imagination. The ecological themes are thought-provoking, offering a timely reflection on our current global challenges.

However, while the concept is intriguing, the execution at times feels weighed down by an abundance of descriptive passages, slowing the pacing and detracting from the overall momentum of the narrative. The characters, though varied, might lack the depth needed to truly engage readers on an emotional level, making it challenging to fully invest in their journeys.

Despite these drawbacks, "The Sanctuary" remains a commendable read for those interested in speculative fiction that delves into environmental issues, but it might not fully satisfy readers seeking a more balanced blend of intricate world-building and character development.

"Bamburgh" by L.J. Ross continues the engaging DCI Ryan series with its trademark blend of suspense and picturesque settings. The Northumberland landscape is vividly portrayed, almost becoming a character in itself, adding depth to the narrative. The pacing is steady, keeping readers invested in the mystery, and Ross's adeptness at crafting intricate plots shines through once again.

However, while the story remains gripping, the character development feels somewhat stagnant, lacking the depth and evolution that could elevate the series to greater heights. Additionally, some plot elements may feel predictable to long-time followers of the series, potentially diminishing the impact of certain revelations.

Overall, "Bamburgh" is a solid addition to the DCI Ryan series, offering a familiar yet enjoyable experience for fans, but it might not break new ground or fully satisfy those seeking significant character growth or surprising twists.