thisgayreads's Reviews (566)

4 ⭐️'ˢ 

 

“Chasing The Alpha’s Son” By Penny Jessup 

 

📕 Edition: ebook 

 

This was a delightful sequel to Max and Jasper's love story. 🌈💕 The narrative beautifully explores the challenges of love, with Christmas setting the stage for Max to pursue Jasper once again. 

 

The story unfolds in a cozy ski lodge amidst the rocky mountains, providing a romantic backdrop for Max and Jasper’s journey. The Blood Moon introduces unexpected twists, putting their connection to the ultimate test. 

 

The story hints at future developments for Max and Jasper, and I can’t wait! 📚✨ 

 

Chasing The Alpha’s Son releases November 27th! 

 

Thank you @tinyghostpress for this eARC!

3 ⭐️'ˢ 

 

“If We Were Villains” By M.L. Rio 

 

📕 Edition: Audiobook 

 

Sadly, I wasn't quite ready for the dramatic ride this one took me on. 📚 Initially, the Bard's influence felt like a heavy cloak, and I considered abandoning ship due to the dragging pace. 🤷‍♂️ Yet, I persevered, and oh, what a finale. The ending unfolded and gripped my attention, redeeming the slow build. 🎭🔍

3 ⭐️'ˢ 

 

“Divine Rivals” By Rebecca Ross 

 

📕 Edition: Audiobook 

 

So this was a meh for me. The premise promised an epic tale of war and enchantment, but I found myself struggling to connect with the narrative overall. The hype surrounding the story felt elusive to me, leaving me on the fence about reading book 2 when it comes out. 😕 On the positive side, that means I get to cross off another title from my TBR list, so there's that! 😬🤷🏻‍♂️

I would just like to say that I wrote and posted this mini review to my instagram months ago BEFORE he died... 😭

5 / 5 ⭐️'ˢ

"Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing" by Matthew Perry

The first book I have finished in two+ months. This was an incredibly raw and personal story of his life and addiction. It’s amazing this man is still alive.

3 / 5 ⭐️'ˢ 

 

“The Everlasting Road” By Wab Kinew 

 

📕 Edition: Audiobook 

 

This one didn't captivate me as much as the first book but the unexpected twist at the end (which I will not share) made the journey worthwhile. 

 

Following Bugz's return to the Floraverse after

her brother's tragic death

, the narrative explores grief, friendship, and the blurred lines between the real and virtual worlds. Bugz's development as a character is intriguing as she navigates power struggles in the virtual realm and copes with loss. 

 

Emotions are heightened by the creation of the Waawaate bot, resembling

Bugz's deceased brother

. This inventive plot element adds a layer of complexity to the story, intertwining themes of technology and humanity. 

 

As Bugz and Feng grapple with their personal challenges, their evolving relationship becomes part of the narrative. However, the disruptions in the Floraverse hint at larger consequences that demand attention.

When bible verses are involved I’m out! Plus her voice on the audio..Jjus nope.

4 ⭐️'ˢ 

 

“Lore Olympus: Volume One” By Rachel Smythe 

 

📕 Edition: Physical & Webtoons 

 

So, I’m still very new to graphic novels and read this one because it was a group read from one of my Goodreads groups. When I started this one, I was like, 'What have I gotten myself into?' By the end, though, I was like, 'Okay, that was pretty good. I'll continue with the next book in the series!’

4 / 5 ⭐️'ˢ 

 

“Walking in Two Worlds” By Wab Kinew 

 

📕 Edition: Audiobook 

 

The story intricately weaves the dilemmas of an Indigenous teen, Bugz, navigating the real and virtual realms. 🌐 With echoes of Ready Player One, the tale beautifully captures the intricacies of identity and connection in both worlds. 

 

However, while the book was a riveting exploration of identity, I found myself yearning for deeper exploration of the dystopian elements hinted at in the story. The potential surrounding the fall of social media platforms to government control felt like an untapped treasure trove that could have enriched the narrative further. 

 

Nevertheless, the book is a captivating journey of friendship, resilience, and the reconciliation of two disparate worlds, drawing parallels between tradition and modernity. 

 

I immediately started the 2nd book! 

4 / 5 ⭐️'ˢ 

 

“Just Mercy” By Bryan Stevenson 

 

📕 Edition: Audiobook 

 

A journey through Bryan Stevenson's courageous pursuit of justice. Stevenson’s narrative reveals the stark realities of our legal system, interweaving personal experiences and profound cases, notably that of Walter McMillian. The story vividly portrays the inherent flaws in America's justice system, exposing the inequalities based on race and economic status. Stevenson's passion for defending the marginalized resonates, shedding light on the urgent need for reform.

5 / 5 ⭐️'ˢ

“Fake Dates And Mooncakes” By Sher Lee

📕 Edition: Audiobook

This was such a cute read that whisked me into a whirlwind of emotions! 📚😍 Full of romance, cultural celebration, and the power of family. Dylan's dedication to honor his mom through the mooncake competition was heartwarming, and the struggles his family faced added a layer of relatability.

Theo and Dylan's chemistry was electric, set against the backdrop of two vastly different worlds colliding. The fake dating trope took an unexpected turn, weaving a genuine connection that tugged at my heartstrings. The glitz and glamour of Theo's world juxtaposed with the authenticity of Dylan's life made for a captivating dynamic.

Amidst the rich-people drama, the impending mooncake contest added a layer of urgency, highlighting the importance of balancing personal desires and familial responsibilities. Lee beautifully portrays the complexity of navigating love, family, and ambition.

A sweet, endearing tale that captures the essence of love and the essence of honoring one's heritage. 🌟🌙

Thank You @netgalley and @getUnderlined for providing me with this ARC.