jlreadstoperpetuity's Reviews (309)

It took me few days to sit down and mull over what I just read. It's pretty short for a fantasy read [200+pages] but the impact was imprinted in my brain for days.

This is probably one of the rare moments that I read a fantasy book that was just right paced. The plot was very much straightforward yet the author's ability to build a mesmerizing setting and characters is just top notch.

"Exile" is a beautifully written epic fantasy that explores themes of identity, sacrifice, and the enduring bond between siblings. It delivers a riveting narrative that will leave readers eagerly anticipating the next installment in this promising series

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"Traitor's Blade" by Sebastien de Castell is a swashbuckling rollercoaster of a fantasy novel that'll have you hooked from the first page. This book follows Falcio, Kest, and Brasti, a trio of bad*** swordfighters known as the Greatcoats, who once served a noble king but are now outlaws after his death.

What makes this book a blast to read is its blend of action, humor, and heart. Falcio's the kind of guy you'd want as a drinking buddy - witty, flawed, and a total smart-aleck. The banter between these Greatcoats is just pure gold.

The world-building is fantastic, too. Picture a medieval-ish land with a dash of magic and intrigue around every corner. You'll get swordfights, political machinations, and even some good old-fashioned revenge.

Now, it's not all sunshine and rainbows. Sometimes, the pacing gets a bit uneven, and there are a few clichés lurking here and there. But honestly, you'll be having so much fun, you won't mind.

In the end, "Traitor's Blade" is a wild adventure filled with memorable characters and epic swordfights. If you're into fantasy that doesn't take itself too seriously, this one's a winner. So grab a sword (metaphorically), dive in, and enjoy the ride.

"Arms of the Sphinx" by Josiah Bancroft is a rollercoaster of a sequel to "Senlin Ascends." If you loved the first book, you won't be disappointed. Bancroft's world-building remains top-notch, and his prose keeps you hooked.

The characters, especially Thomas Senlin, continue to evolve, and their journeys are both captivating and relatable. The Tower of Babel is a fascinating setting, and Bancroft delves even deeper into its mysteries, unraveling layers of intrigue.

However, here's the thing: this book is not without its flaws. It's a bit slower in pace compared to its predecessor, and some readers might find themselves longing for more action. Plus, some plotlines meander a tad too much, making you wish for more focus.

Also, while the prose is beautiful, it occasionally gets overly poetic, making it a bit of a chore to decipher. It's like trying to solve a puzzle while enjoying the scenery.

Overall, "Arms of the Sphinx" is a solid follow-up, but it might not be everyone's cup of tea due to its slower pace and occasional narrative detours. Still, it's worth the read for those who want to continue their journey through Bancroft's imaginative world.

This just got me cackling all throughout. Deliciously hilarious

A thriller about a commercial jetliner that crashes into the ocean and sinks to the bottom with passengers trapped inside—and the extraordinary rescue operation to save them.

I didn't think I would love this book as much as I did! This reminds me so much of the thrill I go through when I read State of Fear by Michael Crichton.

The transition statements were succinctly written plus the inclusion of familial bonds really pushed the story forward. There were some off topic lines here and there but I didn't mind them since the book had a strong foundation.

Warm in Jay’s arms, I can persuade myself it’s ok that he disappears for hours when he thinks I’m asleep at night, returning the next morning, glittery eyed and tense. And I don’t mind that he likes to be in charge of our money, our time, of me. He’s just looking after me, keeping me safe from the outside world, because he loves me.

I won’t question him, I can’t challenge him. I need our relationship to work. Because I have secrets too. Jay thinks he knows me, but he doesn’t have a clue.

I read this in conjuction with The Housemaid and it was a perfect match! I don't read thrillera often but psychological thrillers are my thing when I do read one. This book definitely satisfied months of not being able to read one.

Much like The Housemaid, there were some twists that I can see miles before it was revealed but the shock factor was still there. The author's ability to drum up excitement really did the trick! Wonderful story!

Nobody has a “normal” family, but Vesper Wright’s is truly...something else. Vesper left home at eighteen and never looked back—mostly because she was told that leaving the staunchly religious community she grew up in meant she couldn’t return. But then an envelope arrives on her doorstep.

Inside is an invitation to the wedding of Vesper’s beloved cousin Rosie. It’s to be hosted at the family farm. Have they made an exception to the rule? It wouldn’t be the first time Vesper’s been given special treatment. Is the invite a sweet gesture? An olive branch? A trap? Doesn’t matter. Something inside her insists she go to the wedding. Even if it means returning to the toxic environment she escaped. Even if it means reuniting with her mother, Constance, a former horror film star and forever ice queen.

This is my first book from this author just in time for spooky season. The dark cult-like humor was an interesting mix to say the least.

I wouldn't say its an easy read since the themes are of an acquired taste however, acquired as it may; there's no denying how palpably dangerous and delicious the taste is

I am just in awe with this book! For a debut novel, I don't usually have high hopes when I read one but I have to start changing my perspective I suppose. Not only did the author manage to exceed my expectations, she also made me love fantasy even more- didn't think that would ever happen since I am already obsessed with this genre.

I like how poignant and straightforward the characterizations and the plot is. No fussies. And yet, the descriptives managed to transport me to this magical setting.

Sometimes, for fantasy enthused with romance, there were slips of cringe-y lines; however, the romance aspect didn't feel or looked forced at all. It just eased naturally.

It's a plot-centric book so the mix and match of tropes in between just meshed beautifully

"Sweet Bean Paste" is a heartwarming and culturally rich novel that explores the importance of human connection and the simple joys of life.

The tale of an unlikely friendship that forms around a small dorayaki shop is beautifully depicted, and the way food serves as a metaphor for healing and reconciliation is touching. While the pacing may feel slow to some, it allows for a deeper exploration of the characters' emotions and personal growth.