thisgayreads's Reviews (566)

5 / 5 ⭐️'ˢ

“Hey, Kiddo” By Jarrett J. Krosoczka

📕 Edition: eBook & Audiobook

This was a recommended read from my ALA reading planner. I chose the audiobook format, which was a surprising delight. I was skeptical about experiencing a graphic novel through audio, but the narration was impeccable, pulling me into the story with vivid voices and emotions. I did also follow along in the ebook so that I could experience the artwork.

Krosoczka's memoir chronicles his turbulent childhood, growing up with a drug-addicted mother, a missing father, and his two opinionated grandparents. The story unfolds with poignant artwork and honest, heartfelt narration.

As a kindergarten assignment asks Jarrett to draw a "normal" family with a mommy and a daddy, he struggles to make sense of his own complicated family situation. The journey of self-discovery through his art is touching. Only as a teenager does he begin to unravel the mysteries of his family's past.

This was a fun way to explore an addiction's impact on families and the resilience that can be found in the creative process. I’d recommend this book in any format, but the audiobook experience, surprisingly, adds a unique dimension to this touching narrative.

5 / 5 ⭐️'ˢ

“Hey, Kiddo” By Jarrett J. Krosoczka

📕 Edition: eBook & Audiobook

This was a recommended read from my ALA reading planner. I chose the audiobook format, which was a surprising delight. I was skeptical about experiencing a graphic novel through audio, but the narration was impeccable, pulling me into the story with vivid voices and emotions. I did also follow along in the ebook so that I could experience the artwork.

Krosoczka's memoir chronicles his turbulent childhood, growing up with a drug-addicted mother, a missing father, and his two opinionated grandparents. The story unfolds with poignant artwork and honest, heartfelt narration.

As a kindergarten assignment asks Jarrett to draw a "normal" family with a mommy and a daddy, he struggles to make sense of his own complicated family situation. The journey of self-discovery through his art is touching. Only as a teenager does he begin to unravel the mysteries of his family's past.

This was a fun way to explore an addiction's impact on families and the resilience that can be found in the creative process. I’d recommend this book in any format, but the audiobook experience, surprisingly, adds a unique dimension to this touching narrative.

5 / 5 ⭐️'ˢ

“Heartstopper: Volume One” By Alice Oseman

📕 Edition: eBook 

Late to the game, but better late than never, right? 😅 I can't wait to dive into the rest of the series before Volume Five drops in December. 📖

Having seen the TV show, I had high expectations, and I wasn't disappointed. This being my first graphic novel (EVER), I was pleasantly surprised by how much I adored it. 💕 The story of shy Charlie and rugby player Nick's evolving friendship and love is heartwarming. 😊

The way Oseman explores their emotions and the ups and downs of high school life is beautifully done. You can't help but root for these characters and their journey. It's a tender and heartwarming tale of self-discovery and young love. 🌈

Whether you're a fan of graphic novels or new to the genre like me, this is a must-read. 🌟 It's a heartfelt story that will leave you with a warm and fuzzy feeling, and I can't wait to continue the series! 💖

4 / 5 ⭐️'ˢ

“The Quiet Tenant” By Clémence Michallow

📕 Edition: eBook & Audiobook

😱 This book had me hooked from start to finish, and I couldn't put it down.

👨‍👧‍👩 The story delves into the dark secret of Aidan Thomas, a seemingly ordinary man with a chilling double life as a kidnapper and serial killer. The tension builds as Aidan's wife passes away, forcing him to relocate with his daughter Cecilia and his captive, Rachel, whom he introduces as a "family friend." Rachel's survival instincts kick in, and a fragile connection forms with Cecilia, while local restaurant owner Emily gets dangerously close to uncovering the truth.

👏 Kudos to the author for delivering a thriller that keeps you on the edge of your seat while diving deep into the complexities of the human psyche. I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a compelling, character-driven thriller with a side of psychological suspense!

Thank you @NetGalley , Clémence Michallow and @aaKnopf for providing me with this ARC.

3 / 5 ⭐️'ˢ

“Cicadas Sing of Summer Graves” By Quinn Connor

📕 Edition: eBook & Audiobook

An enchanting and eerie tale. This atmospheric story has elements of mystery, history, and the supernatural.

🌊 The backdrop of a small lakeside town plagued by yellow fever and a devastating flood provides a chilling setting for the narrative. The author's vivid descriptions make you feel the sweltering summer heat and the weight of the secrets buried beneath the water.

📦 The mysterious locked box discovered in the lake serves as the catalyst for an enthralling journey. The characters, Cassie, Lark, and June have personal struggles and connections to the town's past that adds depth to the story.

👻 As they grapple with their intertwined destinies and confront the ghosts of old Prosper, the plot unfolds with a perfect blend of suspense and supernatural elements.

Thank you @NetGalley, Quinn Connor and @bookmarked for providing me with this ARC.

4 / 5 ⭐️'ˢ

“Luster” By Raven Leilani

📕 Edition: Audiobook

This was both amusing and sad.. This book was a surprise gem recommended by my ALA reading planner, and I couldn't put it down. 😲

Edie's journey through her tumultuous twenties is a mix of hilarity and heartbreak. Her navigation of contemporary sexual norms and racial politics is a compelling backdrop to the story. 🙃

The characters are complex, and Edie's involvement in Eric's open marriage adds layers of intrigue and complexity to the narrative. As she stumbles into his family life, her interactions with his wife and adopted daughter provide a unique perspective. 🤯

Raven Leilani's writing is razor-sharp and darkly comic, making it a socially disruptive and sexually charged read.📝

The book contains moments of laughter, but it also delves into the depths of sadness. 🙁 Be sure to check the content warning if you're sensitive to certain themes; there are plenty!

4.5 / 5 ⭐️'ˢ

“Gorgeous Gruesome Faces” By Linda Cheng @lychengwrites

📕 Edition: Physical Copy & Audiobook

This book gave me the chills in the best way! 😱 A thrilling mix of horror and dark fantasy that had me hooked from the start. The author's storytelling prowess is top-notch, and I can't wait to dive into the next book in the series! 📖👏

The story revolves around Sunny's quest to unravel the mysteries of her traumatic past, haunted by a tragic event that changed her life forever. As she reunites with her former friend, Candie, and delves into the world of K-pop, the supernatural elements start to creep in, leaving you with a sense of eerie anticipation. 👻💫

Cheng masterfully builds suspense, keeping you on the edge, while also exploring themes of friendship, loss, and the darkness that can lurk beneath the surface. The sapphic thriller angle adds an extra layer of intrigue and complexity to the narrative. 🌈💔

If you're into eerie and gripping tales with a hint of the supernatural and a dash of sapphic romance, "Gorgeous Gruesome Faces" is a must-read.

Thank you @NetGalley , @Bookishfirst , @lychengwrites , @Macmillan_audio , Roaring Book Press @macmillanusa for providing me with copies of this ARC in exchange for my honest review.

3.5 / 5 ⭐️'ˢ

“Beholder” By Ryan La Sala

📕 Edition: Audiobook

An interesting journey into a world where mirrors hold dark secrets. At first, I wasn't sure about this one, I still am not but the audiobook version differently added some interest. It gave me eerie "Mirror, mirror on the wall" vibes, like a twisted Disney tale for adults.

Athan, the protagonist, possesses an unusual power to rewind the reflections in mirrors. He keeps this ability a secret until a fateful night at an art elite's party when he breaks the rules and unleashes an ancient evil hidden behind mirrors. What follows is a supernatural conspiracy that takes him on a whirlwind adventure in New York.

La Sala's storytelling is both chilling and imaginative, blurring the line between reality and the supernatural. The novel explores the themes of art, aesthetic obsession, and the consequences of unleashing hidden forces.

4 / 5 ⭐️'ˢ

“The Gift” By Freida McFadden

📕 Edition: Audiobook

Super short novella but pretty good.

McFadden's storytelling is simple yet effective, making you empathize with Stella's predicament.

The mysterious storekeeper adds an element of intrigue, and the trade offered presents a dilemma that keeps you engaged throughout this short story.

Thank you @NetGalley, Freida McFadden and Hollywood Upstairs Press for providing me with this ARC in exchange for my honest review.

4 / 5 ⭐️'ˢ 

 

“A Nobleman's Guide to Seducing a Scoundrel” By K.J. Charles 

 

📕 Edition: Audiobook 

 

A delightful addition to the series that left me thoroughly entertained 😍. The unexpected romance between Major Rufus and the enigmatic Luke Doomsday is a rollercoaster of emotions and intrigue. 

 

Charles weaves a captivating tale of conflicting loyalties and hidden motives, set against the backdrop of a remote Norman manor and the world of smuggling. Rufus and Luke's evolving relationship, from reluctant allies to passionate lovers, is beautifully portrayed, and their chemistry is 🔥. 

 

The characters are vividly crafted, and the family secrets on both sides add an extra layer of complexity to the plot. I couldn't help but root for this unlikely couple as they navigated treacherous waters together. 

 

Charles's writing is sharp and engaging. 

 

Thank you @NetGalley , @KJcharlesbooks , @dreamscape_media for providing me with this ARC in exchange for my honest review.