thisgayreads's Reviews (566)

5 / 5 ⭐️'ˢ 

 

“You Can Trust Me” By Kiersten Modglin 

 

📕 Edition: Audiobook via @netgalley 

 

This had me hooked from start to finish! The plot is like a turbulent cruise ride, full of twists and surprises that left me guessing at every turn. Mae's emotional journey and the eerie atmosphere on the cruise added a layer of suspense that kept me invested in the story. 

 

Modglin weaves a complex web of trust and deception among the characters, making you question the motives of each one. The mysterious stranger's presence casts an intriguing shadow over the story, and I couldn't stop listening until I unraveled the truth. 

 

"Sun, sand, and secrets await on this cruise to die for" indeed! If you love a thrilling page-turner with a dose of psychological suspense, then this is a must-read. 🌴🚢🔍 

 

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

3 / 5 ⭐️'ˢ 

 

“Stinetinglers 2: 10 MORE New Stories by the Master of Scary Tales” By R.L. Stine 

 

📕 Edition: Audiobook & eBook 

 

A collection of middle-grade horror stories, offering a taste of the Goosebumps magic. While they're fun and quick reads, the brevity of each tale leaves you craving more. 

 

This spine-tingling collection is perfect for young readers looking to dip their toes into the world of horror. From unexpected zoo encounters to eerie haunted houses, these stories deliver shivers and thrills aplenty. Stine's signature humor shines through in every narrative, making it a treat for both new and devoted fans. 

 

While these stories were a tad too short for me, they manage to capture the essence of what makes R.L. Stine's stories so captivating.

3 / 5 ⭐️'ˢ 

 

“Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark, More Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark & Scary Stories 3: More Tales to Chill Your Bones” By Alan Schwartz and Artwork By Stephen Gammell 

 

📕 Edition: Audiobook & eBook 

 

Reading these offered a nostalgic trip down memory lane. As an adult, it's clear that these tales are more silly than truly frightening, but they did manage to resurrect memories of childhood fears. I Read them for the @MrD_Reads #MrDReads2023 challenge, and couldn't help but reminisce about the first time I encountered these stories, the first book was originally published in 1981! 

 

The collection includes all three books in the series, featuring the iconic art by Stephen Gammell. While the scares may have faded with age, the macabre charm and eerie illustrations still hold their appeal. These stories have a timeless quality. 👻🎃

3 / 5 ⭐️'ˢ 

 

“Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark, More Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark & Scary Stories 3: More Tales to Chill Your Bones” By Alan Schwartz and Artwork By Stephen Gammell 

 

📕 Edition: Audiobook & eBook 

 

Reading these offered a nostalgic trip down memory lane. As an adult, it's clear that these tales are more silly than truly frightening, but they did manage to resurrect memories of childhood fears. I Read them for the @MrD_Reads #MrDReads2023 challenge, and couldn't help but reminisce about the first time I encountered these stories, the first book was originally published in 1981! 

 

The collection includes all three books in the series, featuring the iconic art by Stephen Gammell. While the scares may have faded with age, the macabre charm and eerie illustrations still hold their appeal. These stories have a timeless quality. 👻🎃

3 / 5 ⭐️'ˢ 

 

“Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark, More Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark & Scary Stories 3: More Tales to Chill Your Bones” By Alan Schwartz and Artwork By Stephen Gammell 

 

📕 Edition: Audiobook & eBook 

 

Reading these offered a nostalgic trip down memory lane. As an adult, it's clear that these tales are more silly than truly frightening, but they did manage to resurrect memories of childhood fears. I Read them for the @MrD_Reads #MrDReads2023 challenge, and couldn't help but reminisce about the first time I encountered these stories, the first book was originally published in 1981! 

 

The collection includes all three books in the series, featuring the iconic art by Stephen Gammell. While the scares may have faded with age, the macabre charm and eerie illustrations still hold their appeal. These stories have a timeless quality. 👻🎃

4 / 5 ⭐️'ˢ 

 

“Lavender House” By Lev A.C. Rosen 

 

📕 Edition: Audiobook 

 

This is a delightful, old-timey mystery with lots of queer goodness! 🌈 📖 

 

Set in the charming backdrop of 1952 Lavender House, it unfolds an intriguing story around the secrets of the Lamontaine soap empire. As a bonus, the mention of Portland, OR, added a personal touch to my reading experience, making it even more enjoyable. 

 

The characters, especially the enigmatic Andy Mills, bring a unique dimension to the story, and the way Lavender House provides a safe haven for its residents and staff to be themselves is heartwarming. However, beneath the lavender-scented facade lies a captivating mystery, and Irene's suspicious death sets the stage for a riveting investigation. 

 

I couldn't help but be drawn into the world of old money, subterfuge, and family drama. The narrative skillfully explores the complexities of living in a world where one's existence is considered a crime, making every action feel like a daring adventure. 

 

I'm excited for the next installment in the Andy Mills series, eager to see what’s in store for Detective Andy Mills! 🔍🔒

4 / 5 ⭐️'ˢ 

 

“Eli Over Easy” By Phil Stamper @philstamper 

 

📕 Edition: eBook via @netgalley 

 

A heartwarming middle-grade tale that left me with a smile. 📚💕 

 

Eli's journey from small-town Minnesota to the bustling streets of New York City is filled with tender moments and heartfelt emotions. The author's portrayal of grief, love, and loss is both touching and relatable for young readers. 🌆😢 

 

The story beautifully explores how Eli copes with the unexpected loss of his mother, finding solace in her dream of becoming a celebrity chef. With the help of his new friend, Mathias, Eli embarks on a cooking adventure, following his mom's instructional videos. 🍳👨‍🍳 

 

Stamper's writing is filled with warmth and empathy, making the characters and their emotions come alive. This book is a delightful reminder that even in the face of tragedy, there's room for hope and healing. 🌟❤️ 

 

Overall a quick and cute read, perfect for middle-grade readers looking for a story that tugs at the heartstrings while celebrating the resilience of young hearts. 📖🌈 

 

Thank you @NetGalley, @PhilStmper and @HarperCollins for providing me with this ARC in exchange for my honest review.

4 / 5 ⭐️'ˢ 

 

“The Celebrants” By Steven Rowley @stevenrowley 

 

📕 Edition: eBook via @netgalley 

 

This one has moments that tug at your heartstrings and others that have you laughing out loud 😢😂. While it may not be my absolute favorite of Rowley's works, it's undeniably a good read. The plane scene had me cackling, showcasing Rowley's signature humor. 

 

The story revolves around a group of college friends reuniting to honor their pact of throwing each other "funerals" to remind themselves of life's significance. This time, however, secrets and challenges threaten to disrupt their tradition. 

 

Rowley beautifully captures the complexities of their friendships. It's a heartfelt tribute to self-discovery and the enduring power of friendships, even in the face of life's toughest trials. The characters' growth and vulnerability are relatable and endearing. 

 

A story that reminds us to celebrate each moment, even in the midst of life's deepest challenges. 📚❤️ 

 

Thank you @NetGalley, @stevenrowley and @putnambooks for providing me with this ARC in exchange for my honest review.

5 / 5 ⭐️'ˢ 

 

“Lose You to Find Me” By Erik J. Brown @erikjb 

 

📕 Edition: Audiobook 🎧 & eBook 

 

This book is an absolute gem! 😍 It took me on an emotional rollercoaster that I never wanted to get off. The characters are wonderfull, and the story is brimming with authenticity and heart. 💖 

 

Tommy Dees, the overwhelmed server on a mission, stole my heart with his determination and vulnerability. The reunion with his childhood crush, Gabe, is filled with nostalgia and surprises. The way their relationship unfolds is both heartwarming and sad, making it a perfect queer coming-of-age tale. 🏳️‍🌈 

 

And without any spoilers… The 🍋 scene… 😱 

 

I love the way this ended… I need more to Tommy’s story! 

 

Brown's writing style is a delight, and his ability to weave humor, romance, and self-discovery into a captivating narrative is perfect. 🌟 I just couldn't stop listening to this one! 

 

@narratorkirt narration is absolute perfection as always! 

 

Thank you @NetGalley, @erikjb and @harperaudio for providing me with this ARC in exchange for my honest review. 

5 / 5 ⭐️'ˢ

"Clown in a Cornfield" by Adam Cesare

📕 Edition: Audiobook

This was a slashing good time of horror and suspense that had me glued from start to finish.

The pacing is relentless, and the violence and gore are taken to epic proportions. Quinn Maybrook, the protagonist, is a badass character who is easy to root for as she faces the sinister Frendo, the homicidal clown mascot.

Cesare adeptly captures the tension between the town's adults and kids, adding depth to the story's backdrop. The clash between tradition and progress serves as a fitting backdrop for the terrifying events that unfold in Kettle Springs.

This book delivered a wild and thrilling ride that has me eagerly anticipating the sequel. A definite must-read for anyone who enjoys heart-pounding horror and a gripping narrative that never lets up.