thisgayreads's Reviews (566)

3 / 5 ⭐️'ˢ

"If You're Reading This..." by Kiersten Modglin

This story follows Colbie, a young woman who discovers a letter from her husband after his unexpected death. The letter contains a confession from her late husband and she tries to unravel the truth behind her husband's confession.

The one was okay, it just didn’t really suck me in like her other books have. By far my least favorite book of Modglin’s so far.

4 / 5 ⭐️'ˢ

“Sovereign” by April Daniels

This was another great story in the Nemesis series. This YA series follows the journey of Danny Tozer, a transgender teenager who inherits the powerful mantle of the superhero Dreadnought, and must navigate the challenges of both superheroism and transitioning in a world that is often hostile to both.

This book picks up right where the previous book, “Dreadnought,” left off, with Danny having defeated the villainous Utopia and saved the city of New Port. However, her triumph is short-lived, as a new threat arises in the form of the oppressive government agency known as the Legion, which seeks to control all superheroes and eradicate anyone who doesn’t fit their narrow definition of “normal.”

One of the strengths of this book is how it deepens the exploration of the themes introduced in the previous books. Daniels tackles complex issues like transphobia, ableism, and government overreach, all while maintaining a fast-paced and action-packed story. The book is both entertaining and thought-provoking, as Daniels explores the nuances of Danny’s experiences and the challenges she faces as a transgender superhero.

I found this to be a satisfying continuation and sadly possibly the final story of the Nemesis series.

If you have an Audible account both books in this series are currently free to listen!

4 / 5 ⭐️'ˢ

"Dreadnought" by April Daniels 

This was a compelling and action-packed novel that explores themes of gender identity, self-discovery, and the true meaning of heroism. The story follows Danny Tozer, a teenage trans girl who gains superpowers after witnessing the death of the world's greatest superhero, Dreadnought.

As Danny navigates her newfound abilities and the challenges of coming out to her friends and family, she also faces discrimination and violence from the superhero community and the public at large. Through it all, Danny remains determined to be true to herself and to use her powers for good, even if it means standing up against the people she once idolized.

Daniels does an excellent job of creating complex and relatable characters, especially in Danny, whose struggles with gender dysphoria and transphobia are portrayed with sensitivity and depth. The world-building is also impressive, with a richly imagined superhero universe that feels both familiar (set in the PNW!) and unique.

I read this because it was the monthly pick for my Goodreads "LGBTQ/GSM Fantasy & Science Fiction” group. I didn’t even read what this one was about before I started it. I’m glad I read it, it was a SUPER fun read. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series.

Also, If you have an Audible account this one and the next book in the series are currently free to listen!

4 / 5 ⭐️'ˢ

"Love & Other Disasters" by Anita Kelly 

I found this to be an enjoyable and heartwarming romantic comedy. The story follows Dahlia Woodson, a chef who is struggling financially after her divorce, as she participates in a popular reality cooking competition called Chef's Special. It is there that she meets London Parker, the first openly nonbinary contestant on the show, and the two start to develop a romantic connection.

I appreciated how the book tackled important themes such as gender identity and transphobia while still delivering light-hearted moments and humor. The chemistry between Dahlia and London was a highlight of the book, and I found myself rooting for them to have a happily ever after. The book is a great read for fans of romantic comedies who are looking for a charming and engaging story.

Overall, a heartwarming story that offers a fresh perspective on love, identity, and acceptance. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a feel-good read that also addresses important issues.

3 / 5 ⭐️‘s

“Four Darks” by Alex Vogel 

This was an intense read that follows sixteen-year-old Jack as he navigates a cruel winter in London. Jack's story is marked by a toxic relationship with an older man, a violent father, and a missing mother. As Jack seeks refuge from his abusive home life, he meets James, who seems to offer him hope and escape. However, their relationship soon becomes a dangerous game of courtship and rejection, leaving Jack on a path of self-destruction.

The book is narrated in first person, allowing the reader to connect with Jack on a personal level as he faces the challenges of adulthood. Vogel's writing is compassionate and humorous, yet unapologetically honest about the struggles that Jack faces. The story touches on heavy themes, such as the cycle of abuse and neglect that victims can fall into, but also offers a sense of hope through Jack's perseverance.

This ARC was provided by @BookSirens in exchange for an honest review.

2.5 / 5 ⭐️‘s 

 

“Seaspray” by Rick R. Reed 

 

The author's descriptive style of writing creates vivid imagery, which transports the reader to the quaint coastal town of Seaspray, Oregon. Through the eyes of protagonist Winslow, we witness the beauty of the town's beach and its surroundings, the charm of its people, and the peacefulness of life in this idyllic town. 

 

However, while the book's descriptive nature was impressive, I found the narration style to be a letdown. The story is about someone that is escaping domestic abuse but the background noises and music in the audiobook version were distracting and often cheesy. It took away from the story and made it difficult to fully immerse myself in the characters and their experiences. 

 

This ARC audiobook was provided by GRR in exchange for an honest review.

5 / 5 ⭐️'ˢ 

 

··ᴀɴᴅ ᴛʜᴇʏ ʟɪᴠᴇᴅ...·· ʙʏ Sᴛᴇᴠᴇɴ Sᴀʟᴠᴀᴛᴏʀᴇ 

 

I 𝗟𝗢𝗩𝗘𝗗 this sooo much! I laughed and I 𝗖𝗥𝗜𝗘𝗗! 

 

This is a beautifully written and heartfelt story that explores themes of self-discovery, acceptance, and love. The story follows Chase Arthur and Jack Reid who fall in love their freshman year in college. Chase is a hopeless romantic struggling with body dysmorphia and gender identity and Jack is trying to navigate the challenges of coming out to his family and friends. 

 

The writing is engaging and honest, capturing the emotions and struggles of Chase and Jack with sensitivity and authenticity. It skillfully weaves in themes of acceptance, forgiveness, and the importance of being true to oneself. 

 

Salvatore handles the sensitive topics of body dysmorphia and eating disorders with sensitivity and care. He does not shy away from depicting the realities of these conditions but also does not sensationalize or glorify them. Instead, he portrays them in a way that is authentic and relatable, giving readers a deeper understanding of what it's like to live with these challenges. 

 

You 𝗠𝗨𝗦𝗧 read this (or listen to the audiobook, which was amazingly done by Kirt Graves) and that’s all I have to say.

𝟓 / 𝟓 ⭐️‘𝓼 

 

"𝐂𝐚𝐧'𝐭 𝐓𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐀𝐰𝐚𝐲" 𝐛𝐲 𝐒𝐭𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐧 𝐒𝐚𝐥𝐯𝐚𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐞 

 

“𝘈𝘤𝘤𝘦𝘱𝘵 𝘮𝘺 𝘦𝘹𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘰𝘳 𝘦𝘹𝘱𝘦𝘤𝘵 𝘮𝘺 𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦.” 

 

A powerful and emotional story that explores themes of identity, acceptance, and the power of music. The story follows Carey Parker, a genderqueer teen who dreams of being a famous singer but is constantly bullied at school for their gender expression. 

 

Salvatore's writing is both poignant and authentic, capturing the challenges and triumphs of growing up different in a world that often tries to force conformity. Carey's journey is beautifully told, with moments of heartache, hope, and inspiration that will resonate with readers of all ages. 

 

What I loved most about this book is the way it centers on the importance of finding your own voice and standing up for what you believe in, even in the face of adversity. Carey's determination and bravery are truly inspiring, and the exploration of the role of music as a source of solace and empowerment is particularly moving. 

 

Read this one if you are looking for a touching and uplifting coming-of-age story that celebrates individuality and the power of self-expression.

4 / 5 ⭐️‘s 

 

"Midnight in Chernobyl" by Adam Higginbotham 

 

This is a DETAILED work of investigative journalism that chronicles the events leading up to and following the Chernobyl nuclear disaster of 1986. 

 

The author delves deep into the complex political, social, and scientific factors that contributed to the disaster and the subsequent cover-up by the Soviet government. 

 

Higginbotham's meticulous research and vivid storytelling make for a gripping and haunting read that sheds new light on one of the most catastrophic events of the 20th century. 

 

This was a recommended read in my ALA reading journal and is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the true human cost of nuclear power and the dangers of government secrecy.

4 / 5 ⭐️‘s 

 

"Burning Butch" by R/B Mertz 

 

This is a brave and impactful memoir that delves into the difficulties of being a trans/non-binary butch person growing up in a conservative Catholic subculture. The author reflects on how faith, sexuality, and gender identity intersect and the struggles that arise when these aspects clash. 

 

Mertz's writing is candid and vulnerable, portraying the challenges they faced while growing up split between two worlds - one of safety and the other of abuse. They write about their experiences being homeschooled, their exposure to secular American culture, and the dichotomy between their true self and the world they were taught to fear. The author's account of their struggles with their faith and sexuality while attending a conservative Catholic college in the early 2000s is particularly compelling. 

 

This ARC audiobook was provided by @Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.