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3.5 stars
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for the eARC in exchange for a review. All opinions are my own!
SOLID CONCLUSION.
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This was a good conclusion, not great, but good.
I loved being back in this world and was stoked that I got to see more of it! There were a lot of travelling aspects to KOSAS, allowing for a much bigger map view. I would even love spin-offs in other areas because I wanted to spend time all over this land.
What didn’t fit in line was the romance (or lake thereof?). It was a pretty big piece in the first book, and this one made it feel stilted and stuffed in. Nor struggled the entire time with her feelings and frankly, I felt bad for Talin. More communication would have really enlightened everything. Or honestly, I was way more into a ship with a different character.
The ending felt a bit trivial with how the villain story-line went down. I thought it was anti-climatic to everything they had done in the first book. It could have used something else to add to it.
I liked that Nor was more vulnerable and open once she saw the world around her. Her strength helped her make some tough choices, but her love for her family (especially her sister) was always clear. Nor had a lot of personality and learned to love herself, flaws and all. The ending did wrap everything up, I didn’t feel like their were loose ends. It ended the way the book was definitely leading up towards, which some might love and others not.
The writing was still beautiful and made for a quick read. I’m excited to see what other stories Rutherford will write.
Overall audience notes:
- Young adult fantasy
- Language: none
- Romance: kisses
- Violence: battle scenes, murder, physical; not intensely gory/bloody
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for the eARC in exchange for a review. All opinions are my own!
SOLID CONCLUSION.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
This was a good conclusion, not great, but good.
I loved being back in this world and was stoked that I got to see more of it! There were a lot of travelling aspects to KOSAS, allowing for a much bigger map view. I would even love spin-offs in other areas because I wanted to spend time all over this land.
What didn’t fit in line was the romance (or lake thereof?). It was a pretty big piece in the first book, and this one made it feel stilted and stuffed in. Nor struggled the entire time with her feelings and frankly, I felt bad for Talin. More communication would have really enlightened everything. Or honestly, I was way more into a ship with a different character.
The ending felt a bit trivial with how the villain story-line went down. I thought it was anti-climatic to everything they had done in the first book. It could have used something else to add to it.
I liked that Nor was more vulnerable and open once she saw the world around her. Her strength helped her make some tough choices, but her love for her family (especially her sister) was always clear. Nor had a lot of personality and learned to love herself, flaws and all. The ending did wrap everything up, I didn’t feel like their were loose ends. It ended the way the book was definitely leading up towards, which some might love and others not.
The writing was still beautiful and made for a quick read. I’m excited to see what other stories Rutherford will write.
Overall audience notes:
- Young adult fantasy
- Language: none
- Romance: kisses
- Violence: battle scenes, murder, physical; not intensely gory/bloody
HARD TIME CONNECTING.
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Didn’t see the day coming where I would not be into a Kasie West book. Hopefully this is a one-book case scenario.
I didn’t connect with this story or the characters. The time spent at the library was such a long chunk of the book that it caused the beginning of the story to drag. Then add on an accident I didn’t see coming that threw Autumn into a mess she didn’t plan for was complicated and hard to watch.
The relationship between Autumn and Dax was fine. I did like the way they worked together. Maybe could have had some more positive interactions. It felt like this book was trying to be more heavy in context, but struggled to really hit that note.
The expression of anxiety was a nice change of pace though. That’s not as often depicted in young adult books and as someone with anxiety, I can definitely see Autumn’s struggles. I appreciate how her friends responded, but do wish things were more out in the open in general between them.
Everything mashed in odd ways for this one and while this was a miss, I still plan of reading all of West’s books!
Overall audience notes:
- Young adult contemporary romance
- Language: none
- Romance: kisses
- Violence: car wreck (to a side character) resulting in a coma
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Didn’t see the day coming where I would not be into a Kasie West book. Hopefully this is a one-book case scenario.
I didn’t connect with this story or the characters. The time spent at the library was such a long chunk of the book that it caused the beginning of the story to drag. Then add on an accident I didn’t see coming that threw Autumn into a mess she didn’t plan for was complicated and hard to watch.
The relationship between Autumn and Dax was fine. I did like the way they worked together. Maybe could have had some more positive interactions. It felt like this book was trying to be more heavy in context, but struggled to really hit that note.
The expression of anxiety was a nice change of pace though. That’s not as often depicted in young adult books and as someone with anxiety, I can definitely see Autumn’s struggles. I appreciate how her friends responded, but do wish things were more out in the open in general between them.
Everything mashed in odd ways for this one and while this was a miss, I still plan of reading all of West’s books!
Overall audience notes:
- Young adult contemporary romance
- Language: none
- Romance: kisses
- Violence: car wreck (to a side character) resulting in a coma
WELL THAT WAS INTERESTING.
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What a unique book y’all. And yet…not? I did a buddy read for this book and we both were finding so many tidbits from other books in here that combined to form a whole new novel. It was definitely something different.
I liked how quick it was to read. I would look down and be astonished at how many pages had already flown by. The Grace Year keeps you involved and wanting to know what happens next. I had so many questions throughout it that kept me on my toes. Who was going to die? Why did this happen? Wait, is that what I think it is? Ah, I love a book that makes me question.
This was also a very odd world-system. I would have loved to know if this county’s system was more broad than just this small area, but I was creeped out by the system anyways. Sending the girls off because they have “magic,” was so barbaric I could barely handle it.
One aspect I really didn’t like that caused the 4 star rating was the love story. For someone SO INCREDIBLY ADAMANT they didn’t want to be married or committed in anyway to fall for someone else was a bit unbelievable. The way it was written made it seem like a shorter time period than it really was which also rushed the process. Tierney’s relationship could have used a lot more development, or flat out cutting this piece out.
I liked how everything ended. Michael was a saint and I can’t believe the compassion and forgiveness he had for what Tierney did (which was another piece of the book I didn’t love). Michael did everything for her and I was grateful to see them begin to work things out. I also loved that the usurper was close to home. It made the theme of this book clear, women need to support women and not tear each other down.
Overall audience notes:
- Young adult dystopia + romance
- Language: none
- Romance: very little detail fade to black scene, some kisses
- Violence: murder, lightning strikes, punishments in the form of removing fingers/ear/toes/hair, poison, knives
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
What a unique book y’all. And yet…not? I did a buddy read for this book and we both were finding so many tidbits from other books in here that combined to form a whole new novel. It was definitely something different.
I liked how quick it was to read. I would look down and be astonished at how many pages had already flown by. The Grace Year keeps you involved and wanting to know what happens next. I had so many questions throughout it that kept me on my toes. Who was going to die? Why did this happen? Wait, is that what I think it is? Ah, I love a book that makes me question.
This was also a very odd world-system. I would have loved to know if this county’s system was more broad than just this small area, but I was creeped out by the system anyways. Sending the girls off because they have “magic,” was so barbaric I could barely handle it.
One aspect I really didn’t like that caused the 4 star rating was the love story. For someone SO INCREDIBLY ADAMANT they didn’t want to be married or committed in anyway to fall for someone else was a bit unbelievable. The way it was written made it seem like a shorter time period than it really was which also rushed the process. Tierney’s relationship could have used a lot more development, or flat out cutting this piece out.
I liked how everything ended. Michael was a saint and I can’t believe the compassion and forgiveness he had for what Tierney did (which was another piece of the book I didn’t love). Michael did everything for her and I was grateful to see them begin to work things out. I also loved that the usurper was close to home. It made the theme of this book clear, women need to support women and not tear each other down.
Overall audience notes:
- Young adult dystopia + romance
- Language: none
- Romance: very little detail fade to black scene, some kisses
- Violence: murder, lightning strikes, punishments in the form of removing fingers/ear/toes/hair, poison, knives
AMAZING. PER USUAL.
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I’m never surprised that I always end up loving any book by Sanderson. Occasionally with a favorite author, you run across a book that just doesn’t click, 13 books later, and I DO NOT HAVE THAT ISSUE. I love them all.
This was no exception. Elantris is one of Sanderson’s older titles that I *think* some claim is a lesser novel of his? While no Stormlight Archive, it’s still a superb read. I listened to it on audio and thought the narrator was great too.
One of my favorite parts was the romance (who’s surprised?). It’s nothing major or anything, but the lost loves finding one another was precious and just sweet. I adore Sarene and Raoden as characters. Talk about a power couple. Both strong, courageous, and didn’t take a thing laying down. One of the best character arcs was for Hrathen. He went from someone I hated, to someone I understood and appreciated as a POV in Elantris. All three of these characters had points-of-view and it really gave angles to all sides of Arelon and Elantris.
I loved the magic system and the way the world worked in general. I thought it was interesting how heavily the world’s religions played into the characters and the nation itself. It was a solid combination of all of these that kept up the intrigue and mystery.
I hope one day we do get a sequel because there’s clearly plenty more story lines that Sanderson could pursue. This one ends without any cliffhangers and with a great close out that doesn’t leave you hanging.
Overall audience notes:
- Fantasy
- Language: none
- Romance: some kisses
- Violence: poison, sickness, physical, demons, swords; not overly gory
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I’m never surprised that I always end up loving any book by Sanderson. Occasionally with a favorite author, you run across a book that just doesn’t click, 13 books later, and I DO NOT HAVE THAT ISSUE. I love them all.
This was no exception. Elantris is one of Sanderson’s older titles that I *think* some claim is a lesser novel of his? While no Stormlight Archive, it’s still a superb read. I listened to it on audio and thought the narrator was great too.
One of my favorite parts was the romance (who’s surprised?). It’s nothing major or anything, but the lost loves finding one another was precious and just sweet. I adore Sarene and Raoden as characters. Talk about a power couple. Both strong, courageous, and didn’t take a thing laying down. One of the best character arcs was for Hrathen. He went from someone I hated, to someone I understood and appreciated as a POV in Elantris. All three of these characters had points-of-view and it really gave angles to all sides of Arelon and Elantris.
I loved the magic system and the way the world worked in general. I thought it was interesting how heavily the world’s religions played into the characters and the nation itself. It was a solid combination of all of these that kept up the intrigue and mystery.
I hope one day we do get a sequel because there’s clearly plenty more story lines that Sanderson could pursue. This one ends without any cliffhangers and with a great close out that doesn’t leave you hanging.
Overall audience notes:
- Fantasy
- Language: none
- Romance: some kisses
- Violence: poison, sickness, physical, demons, swords; not overly gory
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Reread June 2023: The way this book rips out my heart every time.
Reread June 2022: Oh you know, just crying again when Rowan shouts, WHERE IS MY WIFE.
Reread October 2020: WHY DO I SUBJECT MYSELF TO SUCH PAIN. But oh how I love this book. Really enjoying my reread!
Note: Review totally contains spoilers. I have read this series 3 or 4 times. I have no chill over this series. This is a re-read I’m doing specifically before KoA comes out in October.
I HAVE TOO MANY FEELINGS OVER THIS.
So you should join me in the comments to rattle the stars over this.
I stormed down the stairs after finishing this book *again* to exclaim my horror that AELIN IS IN AN IRON COFFIN. I mean, Maeve, come on now hunny, WHY WHY WHY. Imma come take you down my self when I figure out a way to literally go into a book world.
And my heart just BREAKS FOR ROWAN. His mate y'all. And she leaves, never expecting to return to Terrasen!??? Someone has to agree with me that there is no way Aelin, or Rowan dies right? The *dies* but *lives* stunt was pulled in her other series already so I'm thinking there must be a loophole to Elena's problems. Seriously a case of "sounds like a personal problem". *sighs*
Speaking of loopholes, HOLLIN. Did you forget Hollin? Because I did. Now I'm thinking he has to play a role somehow. At least I hope so.
I am thinking that Dorian might be the real sacrifice. I haven't decided how I feel about this fact, but that's where my inkling is leading me. He's been darker since the Valg invasion, so I think this plays a part. Thoughts? The Gods are hell-bent on ruining someone's life, why can't we ruin there's instead?
I'm also alllll over side characters in this book. Fenrys, he needs a hug. And someone to break him from that stupid blood-oath. His snarky, sassy self should get the freedom he deserves. I am seeing a Garvriel-saves-son-through-sacrifice as well. Someone's gotta die. I'm just hoping it's a sideish characters that won't make me through a book across the room (thanks, Divergent series).
Also, totally in love with where Aedion and Lysandra are going. And Dorian and Manon. Okay, I secretly always hope that everyone gets a happy ending. Can't help it. I need everyone to be happy so I'm happy. I hope they aren't mates though. *side story*: I hope that NOBODY else has a mate. Perfectly content with others getting together/being in love/blah blah blah, but the mate thing is supposed to be rare. Rowan and Aelin have that, let's let them have that.
Though now that I'm saying it, Lorcan should be Elide's mate, IF ANYONE is going to have one. Lorcan's character arc is still framing itself and I think needs a touch of Annieth, to bring him fully around. He's already agreed to help in the end after BREAKING DOWN IN TEARS. He's my favorite evil, broken soul. Elide is so strong and capable of doing more than she's been allowed, and I appreciate so much she gets the opportunity to con, lie, and stand up for herself.
I do miss Dorian a bit in this book. I felt his part wasn't really in here. This is making me thing he's going to play a much bigger role in KoA. He's on his own adventure with Manon now, so anything can happen at this point.
SJM ups the ante in her love scenes with this book. Definitely along ACOMAF lines. While I'm always pushing for a couple to finally come together, these scenes can definitely be a bit much. I prefer gloss-over/only slightly detailed scenes. Don't let this deter you! You can easily skip them and not miss the story itself at all.
Language, and violence of course. VIOLENCE THAT WILL BREAK YOUR SOUL.
Reread June 2022: Oh you know, just crying again when Rowan shouts, WHERE IS MY WIFE.
Reread October 2020: WHY DO I SUBJECT MYSELF TO SUCH PAIN. But oh how I love this book. Really enjoying my reread!
Note: Review totally contains spoilers. I have read this series 3 or 4 times. I have no chill over this series. This is a re-read I’m doing specifically before KoA comes out in October.
I HAVE TOO MANY FEELINGS OVER THIS.
So you should join me in the comments to rattle the stars over this.
I stormed down the stairs after finishing this book *again* to exclaim my horror that AELIN IS IN AN IRON COFFIN. I mean, Maeve, come on now hunny, WHY WHY WHY. Imma come take you down my self when I figure out a way to literally go into a book world.
And my heart just BREAKS FOR ROWAN. His mate y'all. And she leaves, never expecting to return to Terrasen!??? Someone has to agree with me that there is no way Aelin, or Rowan dies right? The *dies* but *lives* stunt was pulled in her other series already so I'm thinking there must be a loophole to Elena's problems. Seriously a case of "sounds like a personal problem". *sighs*
Speaking of loopholes, HOLLIN. Did you forget Hollin? Because I did. Now I'm thinking he has to play a role somehow. At least I hope so.
I am thinking that Dorian might be the real sacrifice. I haven't decided how I feel about this fact, but that's where my inkling is leading me. He's been darker since the Valg invasion, so I think this plays a part. Thoughts? The Gods are hell-bent on ruining someone's life, why can't we ruin there's instead?
I'm also alllll over side characters in this book. Fenrys, he needs a hug. And someone to break him from that stupid blood-oath. His snarky, sassy self should get the freedom he deserves. I am seeing a Garvriel-saves-son-through-sacrifice as well. Someone's gotta die. I'm just hoping it's a sideish characters that won't make me through a book across the room (thanks, Divergent series).
Also, totally in love with where Aedion and Lysandra are going. And Dorian and Manon. Okay, I secretly always hope that everyone gets a happy ending. Can't help it. I need everyone to be happy so I'm happy. I hope they aren't mates though. *side story*: I hope that NOBODY else has a mate. Perfectly content with others getting together/being in love/blah blah blah, but the mate thing is supposed to be rare. Rowan and Aelin have that, let's let them have that.
Though now that I'm saying it, Lorcan should be Elide's mate, IF ANYONE is going to have one. Lorcan's character arc is still framing itself and I think needs a touch of Annieth, to bring him fully around. He's already agreed to help in the end after BREAKING DOWN IN TEARS. He's my favorite evil, broken soul. Elide is so strong and capable of doing more than she's been allowed, and I appreciate so much she gets the opportunity to con, lie, and stand up for herself.
I do miss Dorian a bit in this book. I felt his part wasn't really in here. This is making me thing he's going to play a much bigger role in KoA. He's on his own adventure with Manon now, so anything can happen at this point.
SJM ups the ante in her love scenes with this book. Definitely along ACOMAF lines. While I'm always pushing for a couple to finally come together, these scenes can definitely be a bit much. I prefer gloss-over/only slightly detailed scenes. Don't let this deter you! You can easily skip them and not miss the story itself at all.
Language, and violence of course. VIOLENCE THAT WILL BREAK YOUR SOUL.
FELT THIS.
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I love when you can feel really connected to a book. I felt that way from the very beginning of this. I have divorced parents and had a lot of back and forth growing up. While I didn’t experience everything in this book, many of the emotions and thoughts really hit home.
The bond between Adam and Jolene was so tender and made me want to hug them both. I loved watching their relationship burgeon from friends to lovers in this sweet, and heartening way. It was gorgeous writing that brought you into the story and held you there. I had no problems with motivation to pick this up. I wanted to follow these characters stories and to what I was hoping was a happily ever after.
My only drawback in this one was the length. As a contemporary being 500+ pages, some scenes dragged on. While still enjoying the story I felt it took away from it.
I love how Jolene and Adam just got each other. Going through such a difficult situation and having someone by your side that gets you, oh be still my heart. Absolutely couldn’t get enough. This is definitely a hidden gem in the YA category and one I would highly recommend!
Overall audience notes:
- Young adult contemporary + romance
- Language: some strong
- Romance: kisses
- Trigger warnings: divorced, separated parents; adultery, alcoholism, a mom trying to make her child sick, toxic relationships (a side character friend of Jolene’s)
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I love when you can feel really connected to a book. I felt that way from the very beginning of this. I have divorced parents and had a lot of back and forth growing up. While I didn’t experience everything in this book, many of the emotions and thoughts really hit home.
The bond between Adam and Jolene was so tender and made me want to hug them both. I loved watching their relationship burgeon from friends to lovers in this sweet, and heartening way. It was gorgeous writing that brought you into the story and held you there. I had no problems with motivation to pick this up. I wanted to follow these characters stories and to what I was hoping was a happily ever after.
My only drawback in this one was the length. As a contemporary being 500+ pages, some scenes dragged on. While still enjoying the story I felt it took away from it.
I love how Jolene and Adam just got each other. Going through such a difficult situation and having someone by your side that gets you, oh be still my heart. Absolutely couldn’t get enough. This is definitely a hidden gem in the YA category and one I would highly recommend!
Overall audience notes:
- Young adult contemporary + romance
- Language: some strong
- Romance: kisses
- Trigger warnings: divorced, separated parents; adultery, alcoholism, a mom trying to make her child sick, toxic relationships (a side character friend of Jolene’s)
3.5 stars
A GOOD START.
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I’ve decided I’m into this. Enough to check out the next in this series.
It’s hard to judge a fantasy series off of the first book because I know fantasies can take a long time to build. I think that was the case here. There was world-building, magic systems, personalities of characters to begin to figure out. This was all present here and makes me hopeful that in the next one we’ll get get to the real deepness of the book now that the groundwork is laid out.
I love the setting and it felt good to be back in a YA fantasy world. It’s my favorite genre for a reason! I love Zafira and Nasir. Hot dang the tension between them was aaaaamazing. Hardcore shipping them and better get a HEA with them or I’ll just be obliterated. They had good banter, moments of strength and weaknesses, and you could really feel them.
Things started off strong with pacing, but oh wow, dragged in the middle. It unfortunately showcased one of my lower favorite tropes, traveling. Most of the book focused on Zafira going on a journey to restore magic. Plenty of things happened along the way, yet at times felt like it things were moving rather slowly. Luckily in the last quarter they sped up again and the action took off, leaving me wondering what’s going to happen next.
These side characters were fantastic too! I didn’t find the forgettable or annoying. I wanted to know more about them and was also blown away when plot twists came in involving them. They weren’t wasteful additions and clearly are bringing a lot to the story.
Overall audience notes:
- Young adult fantasy
- Language: none
- Romance: kisses, some intense kissing
- Violence: swords, arrows, ifrit/magical creature attacks, physical, magic
A GOOD START.
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I’ve decided I’m into this. Enough to check out the next in this series.
It’s hard to judge a fantasy series off of the first book because I know fantasies can take a long time to build. I think that was the case here. There was world-building, magic systems, personalities of characters to begin to figure out. This was all present here and makes me hopeful that in the next one we’ll get get to the real deepness of the book now that the groundwork is laid out.
I love the setting and it felt good to be back in a YA fantasy world. It’s my favorite genre for a reason! I love Zafira and Nasir. Hot dang the tension between them was aaaaamazing. Hardcore shipping them and better get a HEA with them or I’ll just be obliterated. They had good banter, moments of strength and weaknesses, and you could really feel them.
Things started off strong with pacing, but oh wow, dragged in the middle. It unfortunately showcased one of my lower favorite tropes, traveling. Most of the book focused on Zafira going on a journey to restore magic. Plenty of things happened along the way, yet at times felt like it things were moving rather slowly. Luckily in the last quarter they sped up again and the action took off, leaving me wondering what’s going to happen next.
These side characters were fantastic too! I didn’t find the forgettable or annoying. I wanted to know more about them and was also blown away when plot twists came in involving them. They weren’t wasteful additions and clearly are bringing a lot to the story.
Overall audience notes:
- Young adult fantasy
- Language: none
- Romance: kisses, some intense kissing
- Violence: swords, arrows, ifrit/magical creature attacks, physical, magic
LOVE A COLLEGE TOUR.
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I am a huge fan of books by these authors. I have adored them and was really excited for book three! This one was definitely different than the previous and while good, and had some moments I enjoyed, I didn’t feel it had the same flair as previously.
I did like the journey that both of the characters went on. It was a true journey of learning about yourself and trying to find the best path for YOU. I love how this explored options and plans with Fitz and Juniper. They each had their own personal struggles that were unique, but also had pieces that you can relate to.
The journey was fun. I really enjoyed this trope in this context. I loved seeing different campuses and experiences. It was easy to follow along and the writing as always, is spectacular.
Everything did end abruptly. And I mean, I flipped to the last page, and didn’t realize it was the last page. That confused me and left me with few feelings of resolution. It definitely need an epilogue or something. I don’t mind how the character interactions were left, it made sense to the story, but the rest of it was really open-ended.
The chemistry between Fitz and Juniper was pretty solid. I actually felt the quick connection between them. They moved quickly (and at times, too quickly), and had all the hints at that insta-love/insta-connection you want more from. I would have looooved even more from them.
Another cute and light-hearted, yet with some true moments of childhood-being-over reckoning that I enjoy seeing in young adult books. I’m anxiously awaiting for what they write next!
Overall audience notes:
- Young adult contemporary + romance
- Language: occasionally strong
- Romance: kisses, make-outs; a few closed door scenes, one little detail scene
- Trigger/Content warnings: a main characters Mother is diagnosed with a terminal illness (early on-set dementia)
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I am a huge fan of books by these authors. I have adored them and was really excited for book three! This one was definitely different than the previous and while good, and had some moments I enjoyed, I didn’t feel it had the same flair as previously.
I did like the journey that both of the characters went on. It was a true journey of learning about yourself and trying to find the best path for YOU. I love how this explored options and plans with Fitz and Juniper. They each had their own personal struggles that were unique, but also had pieces that you can relate to.
The journey was fun. I really enjoyed this trope in this context. I loved seeing different campuses and experiences. It was easy to follow along and the writing as always, is spectacular.
Everything did end abruptly. And I mean, I flipped to the last page, and didn’t realize it was the last page. That confused me and left me with few feelings of resolution. It definitely need an epilogue or something. I don’t mind how the character interactions were left, it made sense to the story, but the rest of it was really open-ended.
The chemistry between Fitz and Juniper was pretty solid. I actually felt the quick connection between them. They moved quickly (and at times, too quickly), and had all the hints at that insta-love/insta-connection you want more from. I would have looooved even more from them.
Another cute and light-hearted, yet with some true moments of childhood-being-over reckoning that I enjoy seeing in young adult books. I’m anxiously awaiting for what they write next!
Overall audience notes:
- Young adult contemporary + romance
- Language: occasionally strong
- Romance: kisses, make-outs; a few closed door scenes, one little detail scene
- Trigger/Content warnings: a main characters Mother is diagnosed with a terminal illness (early on-set dementia)
Reread October 2020: My heart still hurts. And I'm yet again wondering, HOW DOES THIS ALL END??!!?
MY HEART HURTS.
I’m pretty sure Tahir sat at her computer laughing nefariously over the horrors she brought upon this cast of characters. And I am DEVASTATED because of it. This might be the most appropriate title for a book I’ve seen in awhile.
Yet, I found the story intoxicating. I’m sad for everyone. Though now I am soooooo excited for the next book. She fixes things right? Not sure at this point, but I want to know what happens regardless.
Each character had a moment when my heart broke for them and when, under duress, they broke my heart. Such despair for Elias, Laia, and the Shrike.
Where does the Empire go now?! What will the Nightbringer do?! DOES ANYONE GET A HAPPY ENDING!?!
THESE ARE THE QUESTIONS THAT HAUNT ME.
Side note: While I hate cover changes because I usually can’t afford to get the updated version in its entirety, this cover change was definitely for the better. I love the strength and personas brought out by each new cover and look forward to seeing what the last one looks like!
Young adult book definitely. Only a little bit of language. One scene I will refer to as “love-adjacent,” and a few kiss scenes round out this book. Very good, quick read. Short chapters (my fav) with cliff hangers keep you turning the page for more.
MY HEART HURTS.
I’m pretty sure Tahir sat at her computer laughing nefariously over the horrors she brought upon this cast of characters. And I am DEVASTATED because of it. This might be the most appropriate title for a book I’ve seen in awhile.
Yet, I found the story intoxicating. I’m sad for everyone. Though now I am soooooo excited for the next book. She fixes things right? Not sure at this point, but I want to know what happens regardless.
Each character had a moment when my heart broke for them and when, under duress, they broke my heart. Such despair for Elias, Laia, and the Shrike.
Where does the Empire go now?! What will the Nightbringer do?! DOES ANYONE GET A HAPPY ENDING!?!
THESE ARE THE QUESTIONS THAT HAUNT ME.
Side note: While I hate cover changes because I usually can’t afford to get the updated version in its entirety, this cover change was definitely for the better. I love the strength and personas brought out by each new cover and look forward to seeing what the last one looks like!
Young adult book definitely. Only a little bit of language. One scene I will refer to as “love-adjacent,” and a few kiss scenes round out this book. Very good, quick read. Short chapters (my fav) with cliff hangers keep you turning the page for more.
A MUST FOR SUMMER.
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Oh I loved this.
I’ve been in a huge reading slump. And this book managed to pull out a two-day read from me because I couldn’t put it down. I knew it was practically a 5 star from a quarter of the way through. Beach Read was just that magical to me at the right time.
I almost feel like that makes it hard to write a review, at least a fully coherent one. If things go sideways, know, I LOVED IT. And definitely would recommend across the board for an adult (low-mid steam) contemporary romance that makes you smile, laugh, and want to hug the main characters.
This book has magnetizing powers. I love the polar opposite, old college acquaintances, set-up. The chemistry between January and Gus flew off the charts from the moment the met again. I love that there was a clear dynamic between them and that the banter between them was snarky AND sweet, and never came across as downright mean. The pacing for their relationship moved in just the right ways for me and I love the way they worked on communicating together and acknowledging the things they needed to work on.
For the plot, how charming for authors to be writing books while reading a book written by an author? I could really feel Henry’s voice because I could feel the same struggles she probably went through writing her novel as January and Gus worked through theirs. The juxtaposition gave a charming flair that made for easy and enjoyable reading.
Overall audience notes:
- Contemporary romance
- Language: some strong
- Romance: kisses / make-outs; a few open and close door scenes; mildly detailed
- Trigger warnings: Gus discusses his abusive Father, multiple discussions about a fictional suicide cult (they see the site, speak with those who had family members that were apart of it); loss of a loved one, adultery, cancer, divorce
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
Oh I loved this.
I’ve been in a huge reading slump. And this book managed to pull out a two-day read from me because I couldn’t put it down. I knew it was practically a 5 star from a quarter of the way through. Beach Read was just that magical to me at the right time.
I almost feel like that makes it hard to write a review, at least a fully coherent one. If things go sideways, know, I LOVED IT. And definitely would recommend across the board for an adult (low-mid steam) contemporary romance that makes you smile, laugh, and want to hug the main characters.
This book has magnetizing powers. I love the polar opposite, old college acquaintances, set-up. The chemistry between January and Gus flew off the charts from the moment the met again. I love that there was a clear dynamic between them and that the banter between them was snarky AND sweet, and never came across as downright mean. The pacing for their relationship moved in just the right ways for me and I love the way they worked on communicating together and acknowledging the things they needed to work on.
For the plot, how charming for authors to be writing books while reading a book written by an author? I could really feel Henry’s voice because I could feel the same struggles she probably went through writing her novel as January and Gus worked through theirs. The juxtaposition gave a charming flair that made for easy and enjoyable reading.
Overall audience notes:
- Contemporary romance
- Language: some strong
- Romance: kisses / make-outs; a few open and close door scenes; mildly detailed
- Trigger warnings: Gus discusses his abusive Father, multiple discussions about a fictional suicide cult (they see the site, speak with those who had family members that were apart of it); loss of a loved one, adultery, cancer, divorce