tashreads2manybooks's Reviews (1.06k)

3.5 stars. I enjoyed the majority of this book. At one stage though, one of Caddy’s decisions drove me crazy and I felt like throwing the book against the wall.

4.5 stars. We have all read countless books about missing girls, but this felt different. It wasn't your standard mystery - so some readers may be disappointed if going into it with thriller expectations. It is a coming of age story; a division between childhood and adulthood; a before and after. I really enjoyed Tikka's narration as a child - a precocious, lively voice that made me smile.

3.5 stars

4.5 stars. I loved this book. A coming of age story, set in my hometown, in the 80's with a sprinkle of magical realism (and that cover!). What is not to love? Well, 2 things actually - firstly, the pacing felt a bit off, and secondly I felt that the author tried too hard to include as many Brisbane landmarks and 80's references as possible. We get it, it is set in Brisbane in the 80's. But honestly, those are minor gripes and the only reason this wasn't a five star read for me. I will be watching Dalton closely and will definitely picking up his next novel. Great read!

I really enjoyed the writing however it felt incredibly long and at times superfluous - especially the parts with Fadwa and her father (took me 2 months to get through!), but the story kept me going back for more. I appreciated the relationship between the Golem and Jinni and liked how it 'all come together in the end.' Will I read the sequel? Undecided.

Review to come

3.5 stars. Well that was harrowing. Karin Slaughter definitely does not hold back.

I shamefully admit that I knew hardly anything about Chechnya. I knew it was a country close to Russia, and I knew there had been a war there. I didn't know about the persecution and absolute atrocities the people had to endure.

This book is a marvel. It made me laugh out loud and sob like a baby. It is both harrowing and hopeful. It is a beautiful story that is bound to stay with me for a long time. There are books you read for entertainment and to escape. Then there are books that matter. This book matters.