emmreadsbooks's Reviews (1.28k)

Karen McManus, you'll be the death of me... Her books are so addictive and this one is no less. Honestly I think I enjoy her series the most, as the tension doesn't just die off at the end. I honestly was confused as to why the audio kept going after the murderer was revealed, but I totally get it now. Having 3 narrators helped me keep track of this multi-POV mystery, as it's so fast-paced and difficult to keep all of the secrets straight. My only qualm with this book is that practically everyone has a name that starts with D! While it makes sense, there were just SO many. But if you want a tasty thriller with a side of friendship, try this one out.

*Thank you to PRH Audio for the ALC in exchange for an honest review*

This book came to PLAY!! We've got a variety of genres all focusing on games in some sense - videogames, sports, boardgames, and even a real life murder mystery - so there's a little bit for everyone. I was personally blown away by the sci-fi and horror stories. So much detail was packed into these short stories and I'd be willing to read an entire book devoted to each. But it's not just fun and games... We've got discussions about racism, sexism, and self-harm. My personal favorite was the sapphic Animal Crossing love story, but it's seriously so hard to pick just one. If you're in a reading slump and have a competitive streak, this is a great book to pick up.

*Thank you to Penguin Teen and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review*

Ooooooh give me a twisty UIU book any day! This installment delves more into corruption and terrorism than just simple crime, so it was a really interesting read. The action in this book is top notch and explosive in more ways than one. I'm excited to see if this series continues, as the stakes keep getting higher. We also get to see more of Hughes and Solar which is always pleasant. I feel like Sloan is at her best when she's underwater or with her crew (Hughes, Solar, Run, or Jackie), and we get a lot of top notch Sloan. Overall, some series tend to drag with time but that's not the case here. Keep on keeping on, Andrew Mayne.

*Thank you to Thomas & Mercer and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review*

As a general rule, I never start an Abby Jimenez book after 9 pm because I *know* that I'll be reading it in one sitting. This book was no exception to that rule.

Abby Jimenez was able to craft a lovely romance - full of humor, small town vibes, and characters that will warm your heart. But she also talks about abuse in relationships and the multiple forms it can take. As a woman who's experienced a long-term relationship with an emotional and verbal abuser, it rang so true. The things that insecure men will do to control you are heinous - ranging from isolating you from your friends to breaking down your self esteem - and they're represented in this book with such care. This book has such nuance in it, from the light magic of the town of Wakan to the small revenges Bri takes on Neil, it's truly lovely and I can't recommend it more.

*Thank you to Forever and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for my honest review*

This book is certainly something... It's satirical, though I didn't realize it going in. We follow Ingrid Yang, a PhD student in East Asian studies who uncovers a conspiracy about the poet she's writing her dissertation on. This book is far-fetched in the best way, yet not too far removed from reality. Chou discusses important topics like institutionalized racism and activism, yet also manages to talk about beauty standards and the fetishization of Asian women. Basically, there's a lot going on in this book in the best way.

*Thank you to Penguin Press and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for my honest review*

This was a wonderful debut, full of magic and action. But we also are able to discuss concepts like racism, corruption, and loss within the two worlds. Traveling between Ghizon and Houston was enough of a culture shock, let alone imagining Rue having to abandon her family and friends without a trace. I loved exploring Ghizon and its secrets and can't wait to see more. There were some pacing issues throughout and some unexplained technologies, but I really enjoyed it overall.

This book has so much going for it - the thrill of developing a small business, a friend group that left me with serious FOMO, and the cutest nerdy roommate. While Sadie was a bit crass at times, I loved watching her bloom as a character and journey into entrepreneurship. Plus the descriptions of the brownstone were just *fiiiire*. This book is definitely more focused on Sadie's growth than on the budding romance between her and Jack, but that isn't to say that the few scenes we do get aren't steamy. Overall if you want a modern romance with the potential to grow into a series, try this one on for size!

*Thank you to Putnam and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for my honest review*

This is a MUST for any Critical Role fan. I couldn't stop smiling from the second the audio started. We have Laura and Liam reprising their roles as Vex and Vax, plus the lovely Robbie Daymond carrying the rest of the narration. This book has easter eggs for even the most devoted Critical Role fan, yet is still accessible for a reader who's never seen the show. While the audiobook clocks in at around 16 hours, it's definitely worth the listen. In some cases, the plot was a bit lacking but I'd chalk this up to the constraints of writing a prequel to an established story. Overall if you want a fantasy book that's a great listen, check this one out.

*Thank you to PRH Audio for an ALC in exchange for my honest review*

For an impulse pick-up just because of the cover, I'd say that it's pretty good. I loved the concept of Radio Silent, a podcast that encourages listeners nationwide to solve missing persons cases, though its name reminded me of Alice Oseman's book. Adding in that Dee herself was present for the kidnapping of her childhood best friend gives this book a compelling plot and reader buy-in. Dee navigates her guilt over the kidnapping, tied in with the chillingly similar case that pops up in her hometown, along with her burgeoning feelings for the new girl in town. This book goes in a lot of unexpected directions, but I left it wholly satisfied.