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lit_vibrations's Reviews (365)
When urban meets fantasy!!!! This novel was the perfect combination of everything thrilling, action-packed, and filled with so much adventure. It had a fascinating plot, witty banter, and snappy dialogue that I found humorous. It may initially come off like YA because of the main MC’s but once the story picks up you’ll feel otherwise.
Nola also known as the Hidden City powered by music and the place where the dead and living coexist was on the verge of being destroyed. It’s up to Perry, his sister Brendy, and best friend Peaches to return the lost songs before the town loses its rhythm.
The novel is told from multiple POVs and with there being so many characters it’s easy to get a little confused. But trust me everything will eventually make sense by the end.
The character development was superb all of them had so much personality and pizzazz. Brendy had to be my favorite. Only a kid but she was sharp, sassy, independent, and hilarious. I also liked Peaches a lot too she was funny, wild and courageous.
The twist at the end was well placed definitely didn’t expect it. Kind of hope there is a sequel coming after this. Everything was so vivid, the characters, the different dimensional realms, bringing the music to life was so creative.
Overall, I loved this book so if you like fantasy novels with elements of magic, music, supernatural beings, or sorcery this book is definitely for you. If you’ve ever read “The Monsters We Defy” by Leslye Penelope then I think you’d enjoy reading this too.
Nola also known as the Hidden City powered by music and the place where the dead and living coexist was on the verge of being destroyed. It’s up to Perry, his sister Brendy, and best friend Peaches to return the lost songs before the town loses its rhythm.
The novel is told from multiple POVs and with there being so many characters it’s easy to get a little confused. But trust me everything will eventually make sense by the end.
The character development was superb all of them had so much personality and pizzazz. Brendy had to be my favorite. Only a kid but she was sharp, sassy, independent, and hilarious. I also liked Peaches a lot too she was funny, wild and courageous.
The twist at the end was well placed definitely didn’t expect it. Kind of hope there is a sequel coming after this. Everything was so vivid, the characters, the different dimensional realms, bringing the music to life was so creative.
Overall, I loved this book so if you like fantasy novels with elements of magic, music, supernatural beings, or sorcery this book is definitely for you. If you’ve ever read “The Monsters We Defy” by Leslye Penelope then I think you’d enjoy reading this too.
This was a pretty good read to me. It was a real depiction of what’s it’s like for a lot of black teen moms especially in Memphis.
I really wanted to read the book because the author is from my city and that’s where the story is based. It’s well-written and was a true exploration of what it’s like for black teen moms growing up in the hood. No real parental guidance, opportunities, or financial resources to maintain let alone make it out.
The book follows teen mom B’onca struggling to graduate high school and ensure her daughters needs are met. On top of dealing with personal problems of her own she finds out they’re about to be evicted. B’onca does what any mother would do to protect and care for her child. She made a way out of no way and did what needed to be done. But her misguided actions could put everything she’s worked for in jeopardy including her daughter.
It was easy to relate to B’onca’s character because I know so many teens like her in real life. The authors depiction of Ridgecrest and the situations teens get themselves involved in was real. I didn’t agree with a lot of the choices B’onca made but then I looked at it as what other choice did she have?
Overall, I enjoyed the book it was an easy read and I think would be very relatable for many. I finished it rather quickly because the story was interesting and kept me engaged guess you can say it was a page-turner.
Special thanks to the author, randomhousekids, & netgalley for my advanced readers copy!!!!
I really wanted to read the book because the author is from my city and that’s where the story is based. It’s well-written and was a true exploration of what it’s like for black teen moms growing up in the hood. No real parental guidance, opportunities, or financial resources to maintain let alone make it out.
The book follows teen mom B’onca struggling to graduate high school and ensure her daughters needs are met. On top of dealing with personal problems of her own she finds out they’re about to be evicted. B’onca does what any mother would do to protect and care for her child. She made a way out of no way and did what needed to be done. But her misguided actions could put everything she’s worked for in jeopardy including her daughter.
It was easy to relate to B’onca’s character because I know so many teens like her in real life. The authors depiction of Ridgecrest and the situations teens get themselves involved in was real. I didn’t agree with a lot of the choices B’onca made but then I looked at it as what other choice did she have?
Overall, I enjoyed the book it was an easy read and I think would be very relatable for many. I finished it rather quickly because the story was interesting and kept me engaged guess you can say it was a page-turner.
Special thanks to the author, randomhousekids, & netgalley for my advanced readers copy!!!!
This was such a captivating novel a little overwritten in my opinion but still amazing. The beginning does have a slow start and drags to the point you want to put it down. However, there are parts where it picks up and it keeps you engaged momentarily then drags a bit more it’s hard to explain.
But the novel follows quite a few characters two brothers Prentiss and Landry, George Walker, his wife Isabelle, and a few others in and out. After the end of the Civil War the small town of Old Ox must follow suit with the emancipation proclamation. The two brothers Prentiss and Landry now freedmen leave their plantation life behind to seek refuge in the woods. Enjoying their new found freedom they run into George Walker who owns a farm and asks the brothers for assistance in return for pay. One day while taking his daily walk Landry stumbles upon Mr.Walkers son Caleb doing the unimaginable. What he witnessed eventually resulted in his wrongful death.
The author did well giving you a vivid depiction of what‘s happening and the scenery. The character development was great a few were memorable because of their strong presence throughout the novel. There was authenticity to each of them and also a lot of vulnerability shown between the characters which I enjoyed. Prentiss and Landry really gave off the “My Brothers Keeper” vibe and I loved that. It hurt my feelings when Prentiss lost his brother. Now that subplot involving the forbidden romance between the two Confederate soldiers was interesting and well-placed. I knew it was going to happen but didn’t expect it to unfold the way it had.
I’m still new to reading historical fiction but I can say there wasn’t anything 100% exciting about this book. A few juicy moments but the slow pacing makes it kind of boring. So many words with so little being said at times.
Overall, I think the book was pretty decent not a total fav but I didn’t hate it. If you’re into historical fiction you might enjoy this but if you’re just getting into the genre this wouldn’t be my first go to.
Rating: 3.5/5
But the novel follows quite a few characters two brothers Prentiss and Landry, George Walker, his wife Isabelle, and a few others in and out. After the end of the Civil War the small town of Old Ox must follow suit with the emancipation proclamation. The two brothers Prentiss and Landry now freedmen leave their plantation life behind to seek refuge in the woods. Enjoying their new found freedom they run into George Walker who owns a farm and asks the brothers for assistance in return for pay. One day while taking his daily walk Landry stumbles upon Mr.Walkers son Caleb doing the unimaginable. What he witnessed eventually resulted in his wrongful death.
The author did well giving you a vivid depiction of what‘s happening and the scenery. The character development was great a few were memorable because of their strong presence throughout the novel. There was authenticity to each of them and also a lot of vulnerability shown between the characters which I enjoyed. Prentiss and Landry really gave off the “My Brothers Keeper” vibe and I loved that. It hurt my feelings when Prentiss lost his brother. Now that subplot involving the forbidden romance between the two Confederate soldiers was interesting and well-placed. I knew it was going to happen but didn’t expect it to unfold the way it had.
I’m still new to reading historical fiction but I can say there wasn’t anything 100% exciting about this book. A few juicy moments but the slow pacing makes it kind of boring. So many words with so little being said at times.
Overall, I think the book was pretty decent not a total fav but I didn’t hate it. If you’re into historical fiction you might enjoy this but if you’re just getting into the genre this wouldn’t be my first go to.
Rating: 3.5/5
This was a very interesting debut novel surrounding magical realism, family dynamics, mother-daughter relationships, ancestral history, PWI-vs-HBCU, being a black woman in America, belonging and finding purpose. I also feel it’s an exploration of what it means to be aware of the world yet lost in it at the same time.
In the novel we’re given a dual POV from two characters Zahra, a college prep coach and Sammie a young teen still finding herself as she’ll be heading off to college soon. They were introduced to each other by Sammie’s Uncle Trey who thought Zahra could assist with her college essay. Realizing they have things in common Zahra begins to assume the singing gypsy moths may have brought the two together. When she invites Sammie along with her to Atlanta in hopes of locating her missing brother Derrick a lot of family secrets and truths about both their past and futures are revealed.
I read this book while I was kind of in a reading slump so it seemed a bit elusive especially with the singing moths. Although confused I did still enjoy the authors symbolic use of the singing moths. As moths can symbolize change, transformation, endings, intuition, and psychic abilities. I do believe all of the characters went through some form of a transformation. I just don’t feel the magical realism was executed to the fullest with the gypsy moths but that could just be me.
Overall, the book was okay definitely has potential. I recommend if you’re into magical realism then it might be worth the read. If you’re not then approach this with an open mind and no expectations lol just read to enjoy it. It may leave you with a lot of unanswered questions but when dealing with this kind of writing style and story it’s expected.
Special thanks to the author, @tinyrepbooks, & @netgalley for my advanced readers copy‼️
In the novel we’re given a dual POV from two characters Zahra, a college prep coach and Sammie a young teen still finding herself as she’ll be heading off to college soon. They were introduced to each other by Sammie’s Uncle Trey who thought Zahra could assist with her college essay. Realizing they have things in common Zahra begins to assume the singing gypsy moths may have brought the two together. When she invites Sammie along with her to Atlanta in hopes of locating her missing brother Derrick a lot of family secrets and truths about both their past and futures are revealed.
I read this book while I was kind of in a reading slump so it seemed a bit elusive especially with the singing moths. Although confused I did still enjoy the authors symbolic use of the singing moths. As moths can symbolize change, transformation, endings, intuition, and psychic abilities. I do believe all of the characters went through some form of a transformation. I just don’t feel the magical realism was executed to the fullest with the gypsy moths but that could just be me.
Overall, the book was okay definitely has potential. I recommend if you’re into magical realism then it might be worth the read. If you’re not then approach this with an open mind and no expectations lol just read to enjoy it. It may leave you with a lot of unanswered questions but when dealing with this kind of writing style and story it’s expected.
Special thanks to the author, @tinyrepbooks, & @netgalley for my advanced readers copy‼️
This novella was a sexy, sophisticated portrayal of two past college friends reconnecting and going after love. Toure’ and Niomi were close friends back in college and whether it was ever mentioned the attraction and emotions for one another were always there. But somehow it never seemed like the right time for either of them to make a move.
Now, nearly 20 years later when they’re both asked to attend Homecoming for an interview they’re given a chance to explore what could’ve been. The chemistry between Toure’ and Niomi was undeniably passionate. After being out of each others lives for so long Toure’ planned to use this as an opportunity to finally say what should’ve been said all those years ago.
This is my 2nd book by Kennedy Ryan and she did not disappoint. My only downside was I wanted more from the characters and I wasn’t ready for it to end. I’m not big on short stories because I always want more but this was golden. It was short, quick, sweet and to the point.
With it being such a short story the author does well wrapping everything up leaving us with a happily ever after. We know how they met, their life in between, and what’s to come in their future. The character development was awesome I even enjoyed the side characters and their input on Toure’ and Niomi’s relationship going further.
I definitely recommend if you have audible and you like Kennedy Ryan to give this a listen. The narrators definitely brought the story to life for me and it ended so well.
Fav Quote: “It doesn’t really matter that he chose to do this here, we started here. He could have chosen any spot in the world as long as it is him and as long as it is me I will always be home.”
Now, nearly 20 years later when they’re both asked to attend Homecoming for an interview they’re given a chance to explore what could’ve been. The chemistry between Toure’ and Niomi was undeniably passionate. After being out of each others lives for so long Toure’ planned to use this as an opportunity to finally say what should’ve been said all those years ago.
This is my 2nd book by Kennedy Ryan and she did not disappoint. My only downside was I wanted more from the characters and I wasn’t ready for it to end. I’m not big on short stories because I always want more but this was golden. It was short, quick, sweet and to the point.
With it being such a short story the author does well wrapping everything up leaving us with a happily ever after. We know how they met, their life in between, and what’s to come in their future. The character development was awesome I even enjoyed the side characters and their input on Toure’ and Niomi’s relationship going further.
I definitely recommend if you have audible and you like Kennedy Ryan to give this a listen. The narrators definitely brought the story to life for me and it ended so well.
Fav Quote: “It doesn’t really matter that he chose to do this here, we started here. He could have chosen any spot in the world as long as it is him and as long as it is me I will always be home.”
A fabrication of the past. Four generations of women plagued with the same deadly curse. Secrets wrapped in a web of lies. Say hello to the Montrose family!!!
This debut novel follows a family of black women held back by a generational curse brought upon them by the wrongdoings of their grandmother. For so long this family secret was hidden and never spoken of to Victoria’s daughter Nickie. But when Grandma Madelyn shows up and stirs the pot revealing the truth. They’re all forced to make peace with what they’ve done in the past and present.
I really found this novel to be entertaining. The premise was also intriguing making the book seem promising. The first half was a slow-burn for me and didn’t really pick up until the second half. But this book was the perfect potion of family drama and miscommunication with a slight dash of hoodoo & magic.
The author was able to magnificently conjure a cohesive connection between all of the characters. The Montrose women not only shared magical abilities or a “curse”. But a true everlasting bond that pulled them back together when things started to fall apart.
I love books with strong female characters. Willow was my fav a bit rebellious but still caring, feisty, sarcastic, and full of sass. She knew how uptight and rigid her sister could be and still found ways to do what she wanted. They all believed in the curse yet Willow was the only one that had doubts.
A lot of what occurred in their family was the fault of grandma Augusta and their lack of open communication. Not to mention the unnecessary lies and them all feeling the need to withhold the truth from each other.
My only downside with the novel is that it lacked appeal on the magic and hoodoo side. Rather than it being the center of the novel it seemed more like the subplot. But the author gave enough drama to keep the reader going.
Overall, I enjoyed the book even with the slow pacing. I came for the magic but stayed for the drama. Special thanks to the author, @hearourvoicestours & @graydonhouse for my advanced copy!!!
Rating: 3.75
This debut novel follows a family of black women held back by a generational curse brought upon them by the wrongdoings of their grandmother. For so long this family secret was hidden and never spoken of to Victoria’s daughter Nickie. But when Grandma Madelyn shows up and stirs the pot revealing the truth. They’re all forced to make peace with what they’ve done in the past and present.
I really found this novel to be entertaining. The premise was also intriguing making the book seem promising. The first half was a slow-burn for me and didn’t really pick up until the second half. But this book was the perfect potion of family drama and miscommunication with a slight dash of hoodoo & magic.
The author was able to magnificently conjure a cohesive connection between all of the characters. The Montrose women not only shared magical abilities or a “curse”. But a true everlasting bond that pulled them back together when things started to fall apart.
I love books with strong female characters. Willow was my fav a bit rebellious but still caring, feisty, sarcastic, and full of sass. She knew how uptight and rigid her sister could be and still found ways to do what she wanted. They all believed in the curse yet Willow was the only one that had doubts.
A lot of what occurred in their family was the fault of grandma Augusta and their lack of open communication. Not to mention the unnecessary lies and them all feeling the need to withhold the truth from each other.
My only downside with the novel is that it lacked appeal on the magic and hoodoo side. Rather than it being the center of the novel it seemed more like the subplot. But the author gave enough drama to keep the reader going.
Overall, I enjoyed the book even with the slow pacing. I came for the magic but stayed for the drama. Special thanks to the author, @hearourvoicestours & @graydonhouse for my advanced copy!!!
Rating: 3.75
This novel was such a heartwarming masterpiece that captured an important time in history and remixed it with romance making it even more captivating.
Taken place in Harlem during the 1960’s the novel follows two courageous MC’s Jason Tanner a young activist seeking to spread the message of his mentor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and Anita Hopkins an aspiring beat poet who believes in the practices of Malcolm X. When the two meet on a New York bus ride Jason is intrigued by Anita and although there political differences nearly get in the way of their conversation Anita also felt something in that moment. Nearly three months pass before they cross paths again making this next encounter one to remember.
Jason was passionate and eager to be a positive voice for the movement while Anita was fierce with her drive for justice by any means necessary. It was nearly impossible not to fall in love with these characters. The character development was excellent. Donna Hill put so much description into the story giving a realistic feel to the setting and characters.
I really enjoyed watching the love flourish and bloom between Jason and Anita. Her dealing with a past heartbreak almost made it impossible for Jason to show his real interest. But I loved how eventually Anita opened herself up to love again despite her past entanglement. Then just when you think things between them may not work something happens and gives their relationship hope.
The book not only feeds you in the romance sector but awakens the reader’s perspective on history and the difficulties African Americans face. The author’s inclusion of real photographs, news articles, and poetry was not only insightful but takes you on a journey through history.
I’m so excited this book is being adapted into a film. It’s definitely worth reading so I can only imagine how amazing the movie will be. Special thanks to the author and @hearourvoicestours for my gifted copy and to be apart of this amazing tour!!!!
Taken place in Harlem during the 1960’s the novel follows two courageous MC’s Jason Tanner a young activist seeking to spread the message of his mentor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and Anita Hopkins an aspiring beat poet who believes in the practices of Malcolm X. When the two meet on a New York bus ride Jason is intrigued by Anita and although there political differences nearly get in the way of their conversation Anita also felt something in that moment. Nearly three months pass before they cross paths again making this next encounter one to remember.
Jason was passionate and eager to be a positive voice for the movement while Anita was fierce with her drive for justice by any means necessary. It was nearly impossible not to fall in love with these characters. The character development was excellent. Donna Hill put so much description into the story giving a realistic feel to the setting and characters.
I really enjoyed watching the love flourish and bloom between Jason and Anita. Her dealing with a past heartbreak almost made it impossible for Jason to show his real interest. But I loved how eventually Anita opened herself up to love again despite her past entanglement. Then just when you think things between them may not work something happens and gives their relationship hope.
The book not only feeds you in the romance sector but awakens the reader’s perspective on history and the difficulties African Americans face. The author’s inclusion of real photographs, news articles, and poetry was not only insightful but takes you on a journey through history.
I’m so excited this book is being adapted into a film. It’s definitely worth reading so I can only imagine how amazing the movie will be. Special thanks to the author and @hearourvoicestours for my gifted copy and to be apart of this amazing tour!!!!
This was such a cute and cozy little read kind of a slow-burn but still enjoyable. Belle Calhoune is such an excellent writer without a doubt. I wasn’t sure what to expect going into the book just because I’m not big on the small town clean romance type books. I like a little drama & spice in my life but this was adorably romantic.
It follows two MC’s Nick Keegan a single small town dad who lost his wife a few years back and Harlow Jones a veterinarian from the city who took a job in Mistletoe, Maine temporarily to clear some debt. After a freak accident occurs causing Harlow’s car to slide off the road she meets Nick who happens to be apart of the towns Search & Rescue team. Sparks eventually arise between the two but a few personal things get in the way of their growing relationship.
I was really rooting for Nick and Harlow’s relationship. She kinda gave him a hard time in the beginning but I can’t really blame Harlow considering she had personal issues to deal with of her own. A lot of it was fear, anxiety, and doubt but Nick had his problems too. Both also dealt with some form of loss and were still learning to cope.
All of the characters were lovable even the side characters. I love how the author included Nick’s son Miles and his reaction to his father dating another woman after losing his mom. The characters and the situations they were dealing with or were put into seemed so realistic and easy to relate too. I enjoyed seeing how someone’s life unfolds after losing a spouse and how it affects everyone.
This was the third book in the Mistletoe, Maine series will definitely have to check out the other two books. Overall, I really enjoyed this swoony love story. Definitely recommend if you’re into small town romances it’s worth the read. Special thanks to @readforeverpub for my gifted copy!!!
It follows two MC’s Nick Keegan a single small town dad who lost his wife a few years back and Harlow Jones a veterinarian from the city who took a job in Mistletoe, Maine temporarily to clear some debt. After a freak accident occurs causing Harlow’s car to slide off the road she meets Nick who happens to be apart of the towns Search & Rescue team. Sparks eventually arise between the two but a few personal things get in the way of their growing relationship.
I was really rooting for Nick and Harlow’s relationship. She kinda gave him a hard time in the beginning but I can’t really blame Harlow considering she had personal issues to deal with of her own. A lot of it was fear, anxiety, and doubt but Nick had his problems too. Both also dealt with some form of loss and were still learning to cope.
All of the characters were lovable even the side characters. I love how the author included Nick’s son Miles and his reaction to his father dating another woman after losing his mom. The characters and the situations they were dealing with or were put into seemed so realistic and easy to relate too. I enjoyed seeing how someone’s life unfolds after losing a spouse and how it affects everyone.
This was the third book in the Mistletoe, Maine series will definitely have to check out the other two books. Overall, I really enjoyed this swoony love story. Definitely recommend if you’re into small town romances it’s worth the read. Special thanks to @readforeverpub for my gifted copy!!!
This was such an enjoyable and highly entertaining debut novel. The beginning starts out a bit slow-paced but soon picks up after a few chapters. The author covered so many themes from finding yourself, belonging, finding love, the importance of friendships, racism, family roles, grief, and dating.
I really liked Maddie’s character. In a lot of ways I think people will find her very relatable. She did overly use Google for everything which I found questionable but also hilarious because there are people who do this regularly. But that alone showed how unprepared for life Maddie was and because of that she can be viewed as very naive and gullible.
When she lost her father not only did that break her but it opened her eyes to see the world and people in it for what they truly are. She was ready to experience life outside of caring for her father but she wasn’t ready. Nobody prepared Maddie for the things she was going to endure once she was on her own.
I loved how the author addressed a real family situation. How when a parent becomes sick and taking care of them becomes the sole responsibility of one person. Then once the person passes away everybody so hurt yet none of them were around. Maddie didn’t deserve the treatment she received from her family especially her mother.
She had amazingly supportive friends. When Nia told her “Not everyone is capable of dating a black woman” I felt that and Maddie needed to hear it. With her not having much experience with dating or sex Alex was not the right choice for her. That’s why loved her friend Shu. We all need a Shu in our circle cause she did not play about Maddie.
I died laughing at her snarky remarks toward Alex after he showed up on Maddie’s doorstep. He was a loser and took advantage of Maddie especially when she had sex with him for the first time. Sam on the other hand was definitely a better pick even though them getting together was a bit shady.
The best part was the author addressing the reason behind Maddie being called “Maame” and its meaning in the book. Maddie didn’t like the reference nor what being referred to as Maame had done to her. She felt it made her grow up when she should’ve had more time. It caused her to be overlooked by her father as a child, her mother to leave her behind, and her brother to do the bare minimum.
Overall, this book was great and I do recommend you guys give it a read!!! Special thanks to the author, @stmartinspress, & @netgalley for my advanced readers copy.
I really liked Maddie’s character. In a lot of ways I think people will find her very relatable. She did overly use Google for everything which I found questionable but also hilarious because there are people who do this regularly. But that alone showed how unprepared for life Maddie was and because of that she can be viewed as very naive and gullible.
When she lost her father not only did that break her but it opened her eyes to see the world and people in it for what they truly are. She was ready to experience life outside of caring for her father but she wasn’t ready. Nobody prepared Maddie for the things she was going to endure once she was on her own.
I loved how the author addressed a real family situation. How when a parent becomes sick and taking care of them becomes the sole responsibility of one person. Then once the person passes away everybody so hurt yet none of them were around. Maddie didn’t deserve the treatment she received from her family especially her mother.
She had amazingly supportive friends. When Nia told her “Not everyone is capable of dating a black woman” I felt that and Maddie needed to hear it. With her not having much experience with dating or sex Alex was not the right choice for her. That’s why loved her friend Shu. We all need a Shu in our circle cause she did not play about Maddie.
I died laughing at her snarky remarks toward Alex after he showed up on Maddie’s doorstep. He was a loser and took advantage of Maddie especially when she had sex with him for the first time. Sam on the other hand was definitely a better pick even though them getting together was a bit shady.
The best part was the author addressing the reason behind Maddie being called “Maame” and its meaning in the book. Maddie didn’t like the reference nor what being referred to as Maame had done to her. She felt it made her grow up when she should’ve had more time. It caused her to be overlooked by her father as a child, her mother to leave her behind, and her brother to do the bare minimum.
Overall, this book was great and I do recommend you guys give it a read!!! Special thanks to the author, @stmartinspress, & @netgalley for my advanced readers copy.
This novel was so intense and layered Jumata Emill really gave it with this thriller. The intensity and suspense the story builds is what captured me. The first 2-3 chapters will have you a bit iffy with the pacing but once the murder takes place you’re addicted. I literally could not put this book down.
It’s told from a dual-POV following two MC’s Duchess Simmons best friend of Lovett High’s first black homecoming queen Nova Albright and Tinsley McArthur who’s not only popular and wealthy but also Nova’s rival. Tinsley felt she was entitled to be homecoming queen and right before coronation she’s secretly recorded saying mean threatening things about Nova. Little did she know that same night someone would follow through with her statements.
Jumata did a wonderful job intertwining the themes of guilt, racism, and justice throughout the book. True I was able to pinpoint from the beginning who the murder would be. But everything that lead up to the murder and why it occurred was so complex and unpredictable.
The steady flow of events and secrets kept me engaged and I only gave it this rating because the last 2-3 chapters felt rushed and lacked the buildup the entire story was giving. I could definitely see this as a Netflix series. The author took two people that were initially at odds and brought them together for one common purpose. JUSTICE. The novel took full advantage of its premise while bringing light to current racial issues we still face today.
Overall, I definitely recommend this book. I didn’t go into it expecting anything and was left totally satisfied. Special thanks to the author, @delacortepress, & @netgalley for my advanced copy!!!!
Rating: 4.5⭐️
It’s told from a dual-POV following two MC’s Duchess Simmons best friend of Lovett High’s first black homecoming queen Nova Albright and Tinsley McArthur who’s not only popular and wealthy but also Nova’s rival. Tinsley felt she was entitled to be homecoming queen and right before coronation she’s secretly recorded saying mean threatening things about Nova. Little did she know that same night someone would follow through with her statements.
Jumata did a wonderful job intertwining the themes of guilt, racism, and justice throughout the book. True I was able to pinpoint from the beginning who the murder would be. But everything that lead up to the murder and why it occurred was so complex and unpredictable.
The steady flow of events and secrets kept me engaged and I only gave it this rating because the last 2-3 chapters felt rushed and lacked the buildup the entire story was giving. I could definitely see this as a Netflix series. The author took two people that were initially at odds and brought them together for one common purpose. JUSTICE. The novel took full advantage of its premise while bringing light to current racial issues we still face today.
Overall, I definitely recommend this book. I didn’t go into it expecting anything and was left totally satisfied. Special thanks to the author, @delacortepress, & @netgalley for my advanced copy!!!!
Rating: 4.5⭐️