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ellemnope's Reviews (2.4k)
* Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. *
3.5 stars.
Son of Secrets is a continuation of The Indigo Chronicles, picking up 3 years after the conclusion of The Path Keeper. I am enjoying the series and its quick reading nature. It has sufficient movement in the plot to keep me interested and I enjoy the dark underpinnings of the narrative. It's intriguing to see where the series is going to go.
Though listed as Goodreads as YA, I categorized The Path Keeper as New Adult due to some mature content. That classification still holds true for Son of Secrets, though this sequel is a bit more adult than the first installation in the series. There are several explicit sex scenes throughout that really didn't help the plot, but for me instead made things more cringy.
The writing style continues in the same vein as the first, fairly informal with some immaturity. This kept the reading easy and fun, but also presented some awkward moments that warranted an eye roll. I like how the plot feels bouncy and light, but there are definitely some moments that feel unreal, farcical, or just uncomfortable. Regardless, I still enjoy her prose and it is comfortable to read.
The story continues to be interesting and the novel did not fall into the trap of being a humdrum follow-up. It reminds me of something like a less formal DaVinci Code in some ways. Demons and angels and mysticism tied up in a contemporary setting with some flashback pieces based on the concept of reincarnation. There is good action and tension throughout. I am invested in the characters for the most part and definitely developed some feelings and opinions of them through this installment. There are characters I don't like, characters with morally gray personalities, and characters I root for.
Though there are certainly some moments in the narrative that are awkward and overly immature, I still enjoyed my read and found interest in the story. I am looking forward to reading more as I like the theme of the plot enough to turn a cheek to the uncomfortable bits.
3.5 stars.
Son of Secrets is a continuation of The Indigo Chronicles, picking up 3 years after the conclusion of The Path Keeper. I am enjoying the series and its quick reading nature. It has sufficient movement in the plot to keep me interested and I enjoy the dark underpinnings of the narrative. It's intriguing to see where the series is going to go.
Though listed as Goodreads as YA, I categorized The Path Keeper as New Adult due to some mature content. That classification still holds true for Son of Secrets, though this sequel is a bit more adult than the first installation in the series. There are several explicit sex scenes throughout that really didn't help the plot, but for me instead made things more cringy.
The writing style continues in the same vein as the first, fairly informal with some immaturity. This kept the reading easy and fun, but also presented some awkward moments that warranted an eye roll. I like how the plot feels bouncy and light, but there are definitely some moments that feel unreal, farcical, or just uncomfortable. Regardless, I still enjoy her prose and it is comfortable to read.
The story continues to be interesting and the novel did not fall into the trap of being a humdrum follow-up. It reminds me of something like a less formal DaVinci Code in some ways. Demons and angels and mysticism tied up in a contemporary setting with some flashback pieces based on the concept of reincarnation. There is good action and tension throughout. I am invested in the characters for the most part and definitely developed some feelings and opinions of them through this installment. There are characters I don't like, characters with morally gray personalities, and characters I root for.
Though there are certainly some moments in the narrative that are awkward and overly immature, I still enjoyed my read and found interest in the story. I am looking forward to reading more as I like the theme of the plot enough to turn a cheek to the uncomfortable bits.
* Disclaimer: I received a copy of this novel from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. *
The Glass Magician had a lot of promise and was a decent read, but unfortunately fell short for me. A lot of my issues stemmed from lack of development, exploration, and detail. The bones of the story were present and decent, but there needed to be more depth in the pages. As it was, the construction of the novel felt quite choppy, both in writing style and format. The narrative left a lot of gaps to fill.
Set in the Gilded Age, which happens to be one of my favorite eras, there was a lot of chance for the establishment of posh society vs. poor and the creation of a world that felt magical even in the mundane. There was a little bit of this, but not enough. There was description of some of the more fancy homes and restaurants, some touching on fashion of the era, and obviously the mention of vaudeville, but the time period definitely didn't come through as strongly as I think was possible.
When it came to the magic system, I found myself highly frustrated. While I was interested in the world being created, it wasn't very well-developed and lacked a lot in explanation. I felt like I was dropped into the middle of the story, almost as if I had missed the first book and this was a sequel. There was no easing into things or even a simple info dump to present the world. Instead, I was gathering pieces from beginning to end, trying to figure out exactly what a Solitaire was, along with the other categories. In fact, I still don't understand if the references to white Solitaire and black Solitaire had to do with something other than skin color. And if they didn't, then the constant reference to individuals as one or the other was certainly excessive as they often weren't given any other description. While some revelation along the way is fine and can certainly add tension to the story, this method felt more frustrating than mysterious.
The plot was good and the writing was fine, but everything just felt overly rushed. I feel like things could have truly been exemplary if a little more time would have been taken to flush out details and set up scenes more carefully. The talent is there, just not fully explored. For example, the discussion about an "ordeal" is repeatedly addressed with stress to how important and challenging it is. However, when this event actually takes place, it felt overly mundane -- uneventful and not very harrowing at all. That was incredibly disappointing.
Though the overall story was still enjoyable, there was not enough there to push it into the higher star ratings for me.
The Glass Magician had a lot of promise and was a decent read, but unfortunately fell short for me. A lot of my issues stemmed from lack of development, exploration, and detail. The bones of the story were present and decent, but there needed to be more depth in the pages. As it was, the construction of the novel felt quite choppy, both in writing style and format. The narrative left a lot of gaps to fill.
Set in the Gilded Age, which happens to be one of my favorite eras, there was a lot of chance for the establishment of posh society vs. poor and the creation of a world that felt magical even in the mundane. There was a little bit of this, but not enough. There was description of some of the more fancy homes and restaurants, some touching on fashion of the era, and obviously the mention of vaudeville, but the time period definitely didn't come through as strongly as I think was possible.
When it came to the magic system, I found myself highly frustrated. While I was interested in the world being created, it wasn't very well-developed and lacked a lot in explanation. I felt like I was dropped into the middle of the story, almost as if I had missed the first book and this was a sequel. There was no easing into things or even a simple info dump to present the world. Instead, I was gathering pieces from beginning to end, trying to figure out exactly what a Solitaire was, along with the other categories. In fact, I still don't understand if the references to white Solitaire and black Solitaire had to do with something other than skin color. And if they didn't, then the constant reference to individuals as one or the other was certainly excessive as they often weren't given any other description. While some revelation along the way is fine and can certainly add tension to the story, this method felt more frustrating than mysterious.
The plot was good and the writing was fine, but everything just felt overly rushed. I feel like things could have truly been exemplary if a little more time would have been taken to flush out details and set up scenes more carefully. The talent is there, just not fully explored. For example, the discussion about an "ordeal" is repeatedly addressed with stress to how important and challenging it is. However, when this event actually takes place, it felt overly mundane -- uneventful and not very harrowing at all. That was incredibly disappointing.
Though the overall story was still enjoyable, there was not enough there to push it into the higher star ratings for me.
2.5 stars.
This was a weird, but short little book. I had been slightly forewarned by some reviews prior to picking this up, but I have really enjoyed Niffenegger's other works, so I had to pick it up all the same. It's magical realism in the form of a new fairy tale, but it was just plain strange. I don't know if maybe constructing it as a novel and drawing it out would have made a difference or if it's just the plain facts of the story. As it was, the shortness likely saved it from a lower rating since I really didn't have to invest much time.
Was it still worth reading? I'd have to say maybe. Approaching it with the plan to take the time to really contemplate the story in an analytical way might have made it more...enjoyable? After finishing the book, I read a review with spoilers that made me think about the story a little deeper. Having read that, I can see some additional value in the story...it just had a bit too much of a blunt delivery to be something I could get myself truly invested in.
This was a weird, but short little book. I had been slightly forewarned by some reviews prior to picking this up, but I have really enjoyed Niffenegger's other works, so I had to pick it up all the same. It's magical realism in the form of a new fairy tale, but it was just plain strange. I don't know if maybe constructing it as a novel and drawing it out would have made a difference or if it's just the plain facts of the story. As it was, the shortness likely saved it from a lower rating since I really didn't have to invest much time.
Was it still worth reading? I'd have to say maybe. Approaching it with the plan to take the time to really contemplate the story in an analytical way might have made it more...enjoyable? After finishing the book, I read a review with spoilers that made me think about the story a little deeper. Having read that, I can see some additional value in the story...it just had a bit too much of a blunt delivery to be something I could get myself truly invested in.
I am going to freely admit to giving this book a bit of a bump in the ratings by sheer credit of being a classic. Though it doesn't technically rank up with the rest of my 3-star books, the style of writing and humor is certainly impressive given the time period in which it was written. However, I can't simply give it a total free pass.
There is a lot of wit and (dry) humor present in the writing and the entire narrative is ripe with over the top interactions and results. The sheer number of "coincidences" that happen along the way were painfully eye-rolling. Yes...I understand that this is on purpose as the entire piece is meant to be a satire and that it obtains its critical success largely because of this hyperbole, but still...too much. There is a lot of tongue in cheek humor, a frequent presence of oppositional circumstances, and a lot of thumbing its nose at religion.
Thankfully, it is short...which makes this crazy construction tolerable and somewhat entertaining. The plot does provide quite a bit of action and plot movement, which is impressive given the length. The shortness also allows the book to maintain relevance in the modern age, as readers are not tasked with wading through thick and overly flowery prose or excess description.
Long story short...good as a classic, but certainly not my general tastes. Worth appreciating for its ability to withstand the test of time, but I am thankful that it was not a larger book.
There is a lot of wit and (dry) humor present in the writing and the entire narrative is ripe with over the top interactions and results. The sheer number of "coincidences" that happen along the way were painfully eye-rolling. Yes...I understand that this is on purpose as the entire piece is meant to be a satire and that it obtains its critical success largely because of this hyperbole, but still...too much. There is a lot of tongue in cheek humor, a frequent presence of oppositional circumstances, and a lot of thumbing its nose at religion.
Thankfully, it is short...which makes this crazy construction tolerable and somewhat entertaining. The plot does provide quite a bit of action and plot movement, which is impressive given the length. The shortness also allows the book to maintain relevance in the modern age, as readers are not tasked with wading through thick and overly flowery prose or excess description.
Long story short...good as a classic, but certainly not my general tastes. Worth appreciating for its ability to withstand the test of time, but I am thankful that it was not a larger book.
<2020 Reread>
4.5 stars.
Though not my absolute favorite, this definitely ranks among the top Austen novels for me. The personalities of her characters are so entertaining and marvelous. There are a LOT of social underpinnings so carefully woven into the narrative and a few convoluted, though not overly complex, plot points that make the narrative intriguing and take it far beyond a mere social novel. It's truly masterful writing.
As a classic, Pride and Prejudice is certainly deserving of the title of one of the best. The writing is still predominantly accessible--even 200 years after the initial publication. I find that truly amazing and a testament to Austen's talent.
Sidenote: Lydia and Mrs. Bennet continue to annoy the bejeezus out of me--regardless of the number of times I have read this. They are both HIGHLY deserving of a hard slap.
4.5 stars.
Though not my absolute favorite, this definitely ranks among the top Austen novels for me. The personalities of her characters are so entertaining and marvelous. There are a LOT of social underpinnings so carefully woven into the narrative and a few convoluted, though not overly complex, plot points that make the narrative intriguing and take it far beyond a mere social novel. It's truly masterful writing.
As a classic, Pride and Prejudice is certainly deserving of the title of one of the best. The writing is still predominantly accessible--even 200 years after the initial publication. I find that truly amazing and a testament to Austen's talent.
Sidenote: Lydia and Mrs. Bennet continue to annoy the bejeezus out of me--regardless of the number of times I have read this. They are both HIGHLY deserving of a hard slap.
Whiskey in a Teacup: What Growing Up in the South Taught Me about Life, Love, and Baking Biscuits
A cute little collection of anecdotes accompanied by a slew of Reese Witherspoon's recipes from families and friends. Not so much a memoir as a mix of short stories, etiquette lessons, and culinary tips, but super adorable nonetheless. Her perky and homespun personality comes through radiantly and the audiobook makes you feel as if you're having a conversation with a friend. The length is just right to keep things animated and fun while still feeling like it has a bit of substance. Quick and easy read and (despite the fact that I'm an introvert who won't be throwing her style of frequent dinner or otherwise social parties) she has provided a pack of recipes I want to try.
This one is an immortal classic. I loved it as a kid and found it adorable as an adult. It's cute and sweet. The perfect early middle grade and likely one of the best choices for introducing chapter books.
* Disclaimer: I received a copy of this novel from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. *
Prepare yourself to settle in with this one for the long haul. It's an investment, but I found it worth the time. Ruthless Gods is a very slow burn with an extensive reach. There are lots of intermittent moments of tension and action to keep things going (just as in the first book in the series). There are also places where the prose gets quite thick and confusing, so a slow and steady reading is best. Don't expect this to be a single sitting read. Plan to spend a little time here. It is a rewarding read, but takes some patience and diligence.
This continues to be a severely dark and BLOODY series. It is marketed as YA, but absolutely feels more adult to me due to the level of macabre. I'd say split the difference and regard this one as New Adult.
There were some improvements over the first novel and some places where this second in the trilogy felt a little less polished. There was a lot of repetition utilization to hammer home pieces of the plot or bits of foreshadowing. This grew a little frustrating. The inclusion of cultural dialect (there is heavy Russian and Polish influence in the creation of this world) continues to be a bit of a struggle for me. My ability to infer language apparently just isn't that great and this frustrated me on occasion. On the positive side, the plot progression is good and the world development continues to be very detailed and intriguing. Character development felt more balanced and well fleshed out in this sequel, owing partially to the setup from the first novel. Nadya is admittedly a less than sophisticated character and feels, at times, annoyingly naive, but this can easily be attributed to her upbringing and age. She acts very much like a teenager in her confusions of both her situation as a cleric and her romantic feelings for Malachiasz. It can be frustrating as a reader, but seems appropriate to her particular situation. I would have liked to have more of Parijahan in this novel, but I have a feeling that she will be making more of an impact in the finale.
As with Wicked Saints, the ending of Ruthless Gods gave some resolution and satisfaction, but it also left open some large pieces in the plot for the next installment to explain and solve. This book made me pause and pay attention. It is an intricate read, but an entertaining one. There is some overly cerebral construction, but it is worth the investment to focus and take the time to move through the pages. I am looking forward to the concluding novel in the series and hope for a satisfying conclusion.
Prepare yourself to settle in with this one for the long haul. It's an investment, but I found it worth the time. Ruthless Gods is a very slow burn with an extensive reach. There are lots of intermittent moments of tension and action to keep things going (just as in the first book in the series). There are also places where the prose gets quite thick and confusing, so a slow and steady reading is best. Don't expect this to be a single sitting read. Plan to spend a little time here. It is a rewarding read, but takes some patience and diligence.
This continues to be a severely dark and BLOODY series. It is marketed as YA, but absolutely feels more adult to me due to the level of macabre. I'd say split the difference and regard this one as New Adult.
There were some improvements over the first novel and some places where this second in the trilogy felt a little less polished. There was a lot of repetition utilization to hammer home pieces of the plot or bits of foreshadowing. This grew a little frustrating. The inclusion of cultural dialect (there is heavy Russian and Polish influence in the creation of this world) continues to be a bit of a struggle for me. My ability to infer language apparently just isn't that great and this frustrated me on occasion. On the positive side, the plot progression is good and the world development continues to be very detailed and intriguing. Character development felt more balanced and well fleshed out in this sequel, owing partially to the setup from the first novel. Nadya is admittedly a less than sophisticated character and feels, at times, annoyingly naive, but this can easily be attributed to her upbringing and age. She acts very much like a teenager in her confusions of both her situation as a cleric and her romantic feelings for Malachiasz. It can be frustrating as a reader, but seems appropriate to her particular situation. I would have liked to have more of Parijahan in this novel, but I have a feeling that she will be making more of an impact in the finale.
As with Wicked Saints, the ending of Ruthless Gods gave some resolution and satisfaction, but it also left open some large pieces in the plot for the next installment to explain and solve. This book made me pause and pay attention. It is an intricate read, but an entertaining one. There is some overly cerebral construction, but it is worth the investment to focus and take the time to move through the pages. I am looking forward to the concluding novel in the series and hope for a satisfying conclusion.
4.5 stars (as an adult). 5 stars as a middle grader.
This was one of my favorite books as an early chapter book reader and was likely my introduction to the areas of sci-fi and fantasy in fiction. I don't recall reading anything in that genre prior to it. I had a love of this book that was so intense that it stuck with me for several years, despite not having read it for several decades and having forgotten the near totality of its plot. This reread was very fun for me -- especially listening to the audio version. It did not hold quite the same level of magic as it did when I was younger, but I still really enjoyed it and can see so many valuable moral lessons within the plot. There is definitely a nostalgic love for this book in my heart, but I also enjoyed it very much as an adult and look forward to now completely reading the series.
This was one of my favorite books as an early chapter book reader and was likely my introduction to the areas of sci-fi and fantasy in fiction. I don't recall reading anything in that genre prior to it. I had a love of this book that was so intense that it stuck with me for several years, despite not having read it for several decades and having forgotten the near totality of its plot. This reread was very fun for me -- especially listening to the audio version. It did not hold quite the same level of magic as it did when I was younger, but I still really enjoyed it and can see so many valuable moral lessons within the plot. There is definitely a nostalgic love for this book in my heart, but I also enjoyed it very much as an adult and look forward to now completely reading the series.
3.5 stars.
This installment didn't feel as smooth or accessible to me as A Wrinkle in Time. There were several times I found myself lost in the narrative and feeling it over my head--which was concerning considering that this is a middle grade novel.
Still, L'Engle's writing remains magical and amazingly imaginative. There are great teaching points for humanity and several timeless messages of goodness, evil, and the need for improvement in the human race.
I don't know where the rest of the series is going to go, but I look forward to finding out--especially since the ending of this felt a little overly cliffhangery.
This installment didn't feel as smooth or accessible to me as A Wrinkle in Time. There were several times I found myself lost in the narrative and feeling it over my head--which was concerning considering that this is a middle grade novel.
Still, L'Engle's writing remains magical and amazingly imaginative. There are great teaching points for humanity and several timeless messages of goodness, evil, and the need for improvement in the human race.
I don't know where the rest of the series is going to go, but I look forward to finding out--especially since the ending of this felt a little overly cliffhangery.