thisgayreads's Reviews (566)

5 / 5 ⭐️'ˢ 

 

“Slime Doesn’t Pay!” By R.L. Stine 

 

📕 Edition: ARC ebook 

 

This one is true to Stine’s signature style of spooky middle-grade tales. In this quick and fun read, Stine masterfully tells a tale of sibling rivalry gone awry. 

 

Amy and Lissa's predicament with Amy's troublesome brother, Arnie, would be relatable to anyone with a mischievous sibling. 

 

As the plot unfolds, the girls' quest for revenge takes a supernatural turn when they concoct a bucket of blue slime to humiliate Arnie. What ensues is a rollercoaster of chills and thrills as Arnie transforms into a genuine monster. Stine's knack for blending humor with horror shines through, keeping you engaged and entertained. 

 

This one offers a perfect dose of middle grade horror and spooky fun, making it an ideal read for kids and fans alike of R.L. Stine's iconic storytelling. 

 

Thank you @NetGalley, @rl_stine1 and @blackstonepublishing for providing me with this ARC in exchange for my honest review.

4 / 5 ⭐️'ˢ 

 

“The Taking of Jake Livingston” By Ryan Douglass 

 

📕 Edition: Audiobook 

 

Wow.. this was an emotionally charged horror that delved right into some complexities of identity, loss, and the supernatural. From the very first page, I was gripped by the intense atmosphere and the unique premise of the story. 

 

Jake Livingston is not your typical high school student. He grapples with being one of the the only black students at St. Clair Prep, but what sets him apart even more is his ability to see the dead. This extraordinary gift is both a curse and a source of isolation for Jake, as he navigates a world where he's constantly surrounded by lingering spirits. 

 

What struck me most about this book is its willingness to confront difficult themes and trigger warnings head-on. 

 

As the story unfolds, the narrative takes a chilling turn when Jake encounters Sawyer, a vengeful ghost with a sinister agenda. This encounter unravels the boundaries between the living and the dead, plunging Jake into a dangerous and horrifying struggle for survival. 

 

While undeniably a horror story, it is also much deeper than that with themes of identity, racism, and trauma. Jake's journey is not just a battle against supernatural forces but also an exploration of self-acceptance and finding one's place in a world that often feels hostile. 

 

I thought the character development was exceptional, particularly in Jake's growth as he grapples with his unique abilities and the challenges that come with them. The supporting cast also adds depth to the story, each character contributing to the overall richness of the narrative. 

 

I highly recommend it if you are looking for a horror novel with depth and substance. Just be sure to heed the content warnings.

3 / 5 ⭐️'ˢ

“The Dead Take The A Train” By Cassandra Khaw & Richard Kadrey

📕 Edition: Audiobook

This is a wild and unpredictable journey through the dark and magical underbelly of New York City. I was initially drawn to this book by its intriguing cover, expecting a story about zombies, but what I found within its pages was a whirlwind of monster-slaying, spells, ghosts, and even a guardian angel. To say that there's a lot going on in this book would be an understatement.

One of the standout features of this story is its unique blend of gore and humor. The authors manage to infuse even the most gruesome scenes with a sense of fun and humor. The sharp and witty dialogue adds to the overall enjoyment of the story, making it a genuinely entertaining read.

The book hooked me in from the start, with the first 20% of the story capturing my attention and setting high expectations. However, as the narrative progressed, it began to feel somewhat hard to follow. The sheer complexity and abundance of supernatural elements made it challenging to keep track of at times.

Overall it’s a unique and imaginative tale that combines elements of cosmic horror and gritty fantasy. If you're a fan of dark, supernatural urban fantasy with a healthy dose of humor, this book might be worth a read for you!

Natalie Naudus @natalienaudus does a fantastic job on the narration. Her ability to give distinct voices to the cast of characters added depth to the story and helped me stay engaged, even during the more slightly confusing parts.

Thank you @NetGalley, and @Macmillan.audio , @casskhaw , @rkadrey for providing me with this ARC in exchange for my honest review.

4 / 5 ⭐️'ˢ

“You’re Not Supposed To Die Tonight” By Kalynn Bayron

📕 Edition: Audiobook

A twisted rollercoaster of fear and intrigue!

The story centers around Charity, who spends her summer working at Camp Mirror Lake, a unique establishment where guests pay to be frightened in a full-contact terror game. Charity's job is to play the "final girl," the last survivor in a classic slasher film called "Curse of Camp Mirror Lake." The more realistic the fear, the more successful the business becomes.

However, the line between fiction and reality blurs when Charity's co-workers start disappearing during the last weekend of the season. When one of them turns up dead, Charity's role as the final girl takes a chilling and deadly turn. With her girlfriend Bezi by her side, Charity is forced to confront the sinister secrets of Mirror Lake and the horrifying truth behind the camp's dangerous past.

This was a super quick read that was hard to put down.

I loved the twists and turns and just when you think you've figured out the mystery, Bayron throws a curveball that keeps you guessing until the final pages. 

The relationship between Charity and Bezi added a layer of emotional connection to the intense plot.

4 / 5 ⭐️'ˢ

“The Legacies” By Jessica Goodman

📕 Edition: eBook, Audiobook and Physical copy

This was a thrilling dive into the world of old money, new secrets, and a killer party that kept me on the edge and wanting more! This fast-paced read is a rollercoaster of mystery and intrigue.

Set in the exclusive Legacy Club of New York City, the story follows a group of high school seniors who are nominated as Legacies, securing a lifetime of power, wealth, and protection. The catch? They must survive a rigorous week of events leading up to the extravagant Legacy Ball, where their secrets may unravel. What makes this tale even more intriguing is the inclusion of Tori Tasso, a scholarship student from Queens, whose nomination surprises everyone and adds an extra layer of complexity to the story.

The Legacy Ball promises luxury, excess, and endless champagne, but what unfolds is a night filled with shocking revelations and unexpected twists. Goodman skillfully builds tension throughout the narrative, keeping you guessing and engaged from start to finish. The characters are well-developed, each harboring their own secrets, and the interactions among them add depth and complexity to the story.

One of the book's strengths is its ability to blend the opulence of the Legacy Club with the darker undercurrents of the characters' secrets. As the night progresses, the pressure mounts, and the consequences of their actions become increasingly dire. The pacing is relentless, making it difficult to put the book down.

Goodman's writing style is engaging and accessible, making "The Legacies" a perfect choice for those looking for an entertaining and immersive read. Goodman has crafted a fun, fast-paced story that will keep you thoroughly entertained throughout. If you're in the mood for an engaging thriller with well-drawn characters and a gripping storyline, this book is definitely worth picking up.

Thank you @NetGalley , @Bookishfirst , @Jessicagoodman and @razorbillbooks for providing me with this ARC in exchange for my honest review.

2.5 / 5 ⭐️'ˢ

"The Wolf at the Door" by Charlie Adhara

📕 Edition: Audiobook

A promising start with room for Improvement in this paranormal romance novel that delves into the intriguing world of werewolves, government agencies, and the complexities of trust and partnership. While the premise of the story shows great promise, my reading experience left me with mixed feelings.

One of the notable drawbacks of the book was the narration style. I found it hard to immerse myself in the story due to a lack of differentiation between characters in the audiobook version I listened to. The narration often felt monotonous, making it challenging to distinguish between the protagonist, Agent Cooper Dayton, and his new partner, Oliver Park. This lack of vocal distinction hindered my ability to fully connect with the characters and their interactions, making it difficult to become fully engrossed in the story.

Additionally, the pacing of the story left something to be desired. The first half of the book felt slow and somewhat uneventful, making it a struggle to maintain my interest. However, I was pleased to find that the story gained momentum in the second half, with the plot becoming more engaging and the mysteries unraveling at a more satisfying pace. This shift in pace and increased tension redeemed the story to some extent.

Despite these criticisms, I appreciate the author's take on the shifter genre and the intricate world-building. The concept of a werewolf oversight organization and the partnership between Cooper and Park offered a fresh perspective in the paranormal romance genre.

I will be giving the second book in the series a chance, hoping to see growth in both storytelling and character development.

3 / 5 ⭐️'ˢ

"You Are Not Me" by Leta Blake

📕 Edition: Audiobook

This story is a rollercoaster ride through the tumultuous summer of 1991, as Peter faces new beginnings, old baggage, and the challenges of self-discovery in the absence of his secret lover, Adam. Peter grapples with his identity, his first love, and the uncertainties of the future.

I had so much disdain for Adam is this book but was satisfied with the book's conclusion.

The story is not without its heart-wrenching moments, notably the passing of Peter's dog, which had me in tears!

The introduction of Daniel McPeak, a responsible college student with an attraction to Peter, adds an intriguing dynamic to the narrative. Daniel's role in Peter's life is a source of curiosity throughout the book, and his presence creates tension and excitement. A perfect setup for what promises to be a thrilling conclusion to this series.

4 / 5 ⭐️'ˢ

“First Time For Everything” by Henry Fry

📕 Edition: Audiobook

This was a delightful exploration of one man's journey through the twists and turns of modern queer life, relationships, work, and self-discovery. The story introduces us to Danny Scudd, a character who, on the surface, seems content with his life in London as a journalist with a quirky taste in music and an affinity for houseplants. However, his world takes an unexpected turn when a visit to the clinic reveals infidelity in his relationship with Tobbs, who claims they were never adhering to conventional monogamy. As if that weren't enough, Danny's flatmates decide to start a family, leaving him with nowhere to live.

The story follows Danny as he moves in with his lifelong friend Jacob, a flamboyant nonbinary artist, and their eclectic group of friends in East London. What ensues is a vibrant, sometimes chaotic, and often heartwarming exploration of Danny's quest to understand himself, his sexuality, and the life he's been avoiding.

Fry's writing is engaging and relatable, making it easy for readers to connect with Danny and his journey. The character development is thorough, with Danny's growth and self-discovery at the forefront of the narrative. As he navigates the complexities of modern relationships, therapy, and self-acceptance, you just can't help but cheer him on.

The novel beautifully captures the essence of modern queer life, showcasing the diversity and uniqueness of the LGBTQ+ community while tackling important themes such as identity, self-acceptance, and the fluidity of relationships. The portrayal of Danny's interactions with his therapist and housemates adds depth and authenticity to his personal journey.

The audiobook narration is exceptional! A great audiobook narrator can really elevate the reading experience, and it's clear that this one enhances the story and characters. Well done @willmwatt !

3 / 5 ⭐️'ˢ 

 

“Ankle Snatcher” by Grady Hendrix 

 

📕 Edition: Audiobook: FREE to read or listen to with Amazon Prime. 

 

The short story follows Marcus, haunted by childhood trauma and an eerie family legend. Hendrix creates an atmosphere of dread, making you question whether the boogeyman is real or a product of Marcus's troubled mind. As suspense escalates, the narrative keeps you on edge, with an unsettling conclusion. Read it if you are a fan of Hendrix or a horror enthusiast seeking a quick thrill.

4 / 5 ⭐️'ˢ 

 

“No Perfect Places” by Steven Salvatore 

 

📕 Edition: ARC Hardcover & eBook 

 

This delves into the complexities of family, grief, and the burden of hidden truths. Salvatore's storytelling is both heart-wrenching and beautifully crafted, making it a compelling read from start to finish. 

 

The story revolves around twins Alex and Olly, who have already endured the hardship of their father's imprisonment, only to face further challenges when he unexpectedly passes away. The revelation of a long-held secret – a half-brother named Tyler – adds layers of complexity to their already fragile family dynamics. 

 

Salvatore excels in portraying the characters' struggles and growth. Alex's descent into self-destructive behavior and Olly's internal conflict about revealing the truth create a tension that keeps you engaged. The character development is authentic, and their emotional journeys are relatable to anyone who has grappled with family secrets and loss. 

 

The lakeside town setting adds a vivid backdrop to the narrative, enhancing the story's atmosphere and sense of place. As the secrets unravel, Salvatore masterfully explores themes of forgiveness, reconciliation, and the resilience of the human spirit. 

 

Thank you @NetGalley, Steven Salvatore and @Bloomsburybooksus for providing me with this ARC in exchange for my honest review.