Va Par

4.3/5

This was an enjoyable and heartwarming read, and having only read Happy Place, this book is much better in my opinion.

One aspect I found intriguing was the sense that Emily Henry's books, though easy to read on the surface, seem to require an unhurried pace to fully appreciate. Not sure why this is, but there's something about her writing style that demands you take your time and savor it gradually. Whether this leisurely reading experience is a good or bad thing is hard to say, it's simply a quality I've noticed.

At times, Book Lovers embraced the cheesiness reminiscent of a Hallmark movie, something Emily Henry herself seems to acknowledge. The scenes between Nora and Charlie were filled with quirky dialogue and their constant banter made me smile and chuckle at times.

However, it was in the last third of the book that I became truly invested, as I started to deeply relate to the emotional journeys of Nora and the other characters. Their feelings and struggles began resonating with me on a personal level, making their stories feel like extensions of my own experiences.

Recommended for romance lovers out there! Emily Henry never fails and her books will be an auto-buy for me.

4.5/5

I knew I was never mentally ready coming into this. But still, who would've thought that I'll be up all night - flying through the pages like my life depended on it?

This book legit had some moments that creeped the beejezus out of me. There were moments when I was clutching my pillow, staring into my Kindle, like it could save me from the words on the page. Holly Jackson doesn't pull any punches with the creep factor!

And then there's Pip. She's not playing games anymore. She really said “I AM THE FUCKING LAW” and it's a wild ride to see her teeter on the edge of reason. This book makes you want to join Pip in her crusade against the messed up justice system.

Now, the ending. GODDAMIT. What kind of sadist would put a cliffhanger on the final book? That had me staring blankly at the wall, just processing, until my brain went offline.

Bottomline: As Good As Dead takes the cake for a heart-stopping, jaw-dropping finale. Holly Jackson I love you!

4.6

Even if I'm one of those who haven't seen the Fight Club movie, I'm glad that I got to read this book before I start watching it. This was such an entertaining read from start to finish. It's extremely hard to put down. I hate the fact that it's only 200+ pages, since I didn't want it to end. The story was dark, humorous, suspenseful, and contains a twist you won't see coming (unless you've seen the film). Palahniuk has such a great writing style and I love how he didn't sugarcoat the story.

I'd really recommend this to anyone who likes black comedy, and those who want to read about complex characters who have different views on society. Even if you won't gain much from reading this book if you've seen the film, you should still read this one! Go ahead, read it, and tell your friends about it.

3.5

As someone who dipped their toes into Korean fiction for the first time with this book, let me tell you, this was an absolute trip.

It took me longer than expected to get through these short stories, but still, I couldn't put it down. I really had taken my time to absorb every detail. Maybe it was the translation by Anton Hur. Let's just say, he did a fantastic job at it. The writing flowed smoothly, which is no small feat when you're dealing with the kind of eerie and absurd situations Chung throws at you. Speaking of eerie and absurd, that's the perfect way to describe most of these stories.

I may have a newfound appreciation for body horror. If you're squeamish, maybe this collection isn't for you especially the first two stories. So naturally, my favorites are “The Head,” “The Embodiment”, and the namesake, “Cursed Bunny.” These stories are still living in my brain. Of course, not every story hit the mark. “The Frozen Finger,” “Goodbye My Love,” and a couple of others just didn't do it for me.

So yeah, if you're looking for something different, something quick to pass the time, and something that will stay with you long after you finish the last page, then this book might just be the bizarre adventure you crave.

4.7

This maybe not the best book in the entire series, at least it lived up to my expectations and the quality of the story is greatly improving after every sequel, thus my rating is improving as well. This book is very addictive and it always leaves me at the edge of my seat after every chapter.

This is the first book where we get to know more of Thalia's character, after being resurrected in the previous book which is The Sea of Monsters. Percy and his gang, including Thalia, started off well during the first few chapters but as usual things quickly started to fall which led them in another trap. Thalia and Percy were the ones to save the world, and Annabeth. AND AGAIN AS USUAL, they must do it in a very limited amount of time because of another possible dooms day and the winter solstice.

With Riordan's terrific humor and innovation on Greek mythology, this book kept me attached to the story just like The Lightning Thief and The Sea of Monsters. Before reading this book, I suggest you to read the first two books because it can get very confusing sometimes and it lacks character and plot introductions. Some questions were answered just like how Thalia and Percy would get along. The Titan's Curse also gave me possible hints on what the next two books will be about (there are 5 books in the series). For sure, you would get excited to read the remaining books because it will surely introduce new quests/adventures until it leads us to the finale.

In general, Rick Riordan never failed me again with such a great middle book. It maintained its right pace and intensity throughout the story. The characters are lively as always, often giving you a great laugh and a roller coaster ride of emotions. I suggest everyone to read this and the entire series if you're in for an awesome adventure!

3/5

Well, this was a breezy read. Always glad to see our favorite amateur sleuth, Pip, back in action, and there's a certain promise of intrigue in the air.

Also, why is Ant still here? Ugh. One of the worst and most annoying character ever made. Ant adds nothing but frustration to the story.

There's a glimmer of something more interesting, though. Pip's over-the-top reactions are apparently the fuel for her investigation into the Andie Bell and Sal Singh case, hinting at a connection to the main series arc. This creates an interesting tension – Pip's melodramatic tendencies both hinder and propel the narrative forward.

Overall, this was okay, but it doesn't take us anywhere particularly meaningful. Jackson's writing chops are undeniable, but this novella lacks the weight and purpose we've come to expect from the series. Maybe it's time to get back to the heart of the story Pip first captured us with.

3.5/5

This was such a delightful read for anyone looking for a light and predictable escape, and it delivers exactly what it promises: a classic rom-com within a rom-com experience.

The story leans into familiar tropes, which some readers might find predictable. However, this predictability becomes a strength for those seeking a comforting and easy read. The narrative flows smoothly, making it a perfect choice for a relaxing morning coffee, or afternoon downtimes.

The references and nods to classic rom-com films throughout the story are a treat for fans of the genre. This extends beyond the narrative, with a fantastic music playlist included at the end of the book. The playlist acts as the perfect soundtrack to the story, further immersing the reader in the world of Liz and Wes.

While Better Than the Movies doesn't break new ground in storytelling, it excels at delivering a feel-good experience. Highly recommended for readers who are in a major reading slump, or just fans of romance books in general.

4.2/5

It seems so fitting having to read and finish this during the scorching hot Southeast Asian summer. Malibu Rising send you away into an environment so vividly rendered, it feels like you're basking in the golden Malibu sun yourself. TJR has a captivating way of taking us to the iconic beachside locale through finely crafted details that stimulate all the senses. The salty ocean breeze, the warmth of the sand, the sound and energy of crashing waves – she paints an immersive tapestry that envelops you in the perfect Malibu experience from the get-go.

At the heart the story are the all-too-human characters of the Riva family. There's this exceptional depth into the siblings. It's impossible not to create a profound connection with each one, empathizing with their unique struggles and triumphs. You find yourself invested in their journeys, cheering them on at every turn as they navigate the complexities of identity, familial bonds, and the human condition.

The final act somewhat leaves you yearning for an extended epilogue glimpsing how the Rivas have faredin the months or years ahead, and there's a certain beauty to that open-endedness.

Malibu Rising is a shining testament to Taylor Jenkins Reid's exceptional storytelling prowess. From what I've observed reading her previous novels, she always impart valuable insights into the essence of human nature. She's a masterclass in crafting layered, unforgettable characters that resonate universal truths about life, love, and the pursuit of fulfillment.

4.3 razorblades/5

Forget cozy mysteries. This is a crime novel that hits you like a rogue vehicle speeding down a highway. It's fast, it's brutal, and it'll leave you breathless.

It's not your typical revenge story. Ike and Buddy Lee, two fathers hardened by life, are united by a gut-wrenching loss: their sons, who were also a couple, were brutally murdered. Screw the tears and therapy; these guys are all about fists and fury. You can't help but root for them, despite their bloody knuckles and questionable methods.

It's also not afraid to get uncomfortable. Cosby pulls no punches - tackling issues like homophobia, racism, misogyny.. you name it. It's a wake-up call, reminding us that the fight for justice is messy, brutal, and never sugar-coated. Be prepared as well as this one isn't for the squeamish. It's a dark and gritty with lines and dialogue that linger like razorblade cuts. I found myself highlighting a lot of passages while reading.

No book is perfect, but Razorblade Tears is the kind of story that stays with you long after the final page. After all, sometimes justice isn't always pretty, but damn, is it ever compelling.

4/5

This is a worthy successor to the addictive A Good Girl's Guide to Murder. While it doesn't quite recapture the greatness of the first book, it delivers a fresh mystery with its signature true-crime podcast hook.

The plot is well-crafted, keeping you guessing until the very end. However, Pip's decision to broadcast her investigation raises the stakes in an interesting way, but it also feels a touch unrealistic. You can't help but wonder if a real-life investigator would risk jeopardizing the case (and potentially lives) for a podcast.

This sequel also introduces some intriguing neew characters. However, they feel underdeveloped, leaving you wanting to know more about their motivations. Pip, on the other hand, continues to be a compelling protagonist. But there's a hint of recklessness in her actions this time around, blurring the lines between passionate investigator and someone perhaps a little unhinged.

Despite these minor drawbacks, this was still a thoroughly enjoyable read. The fast pace, chilling twists, and the signature Pip-and-Ravi dynamic will keep you glued to the pages. While some characters deserved more depth, the central mystery remains captivating.

PERFECT 5 STARS!!!

There are so many ways to describe how perfect this book is. The Diary of Anne Frank is a wonderful story and it will open your eyes about reality.

I've seen some reviews saying that her story is really fake and nothing's special about it.

SHUT!
YOUR!
FUCKING!
MOUTH!

How could people even hate on this book? It's very informative and her description of the war and the holocaust was on point. It's about a teenage girl who went into hiding with her family just to survive scarcity and war. Her diary was given during her 13th birthday and the contents were written in a span of 2 years. Anne Frank didn't write on her diary to get published in the future. She wrote on it to reflect on the holocaust. To kill boredom. To get through the miserable days, which is almost everyday since the war began. Their life in hiding was very tragic.

But one thing I learned about Anne Frank is that HOPE is the most important thing despite everything. Her crush, who's also in hiding with them, gave her hope to get through the day. Her family gave her hope and led her to believe to never give up because the war will end very soon. Unfortunately, her diary has to end in August 4, 1944 when their Secret Annex was raided and exposed in the outside world. Almost everyone in Anne's group died. Some were sent in concentration groups and were put in gas chambers (goosebumps). Anne and her sister, Margot, died due to a Typhus epidemic. Otto Frank was the only survivor and was the one who kept Anne's diary.. and was published around the 60's.

While reading this book, Anne Frank took a lot of turns with her diary entries. I was emotional, in the verge of tears, laughing, and fanboying over Anne and Peter Schiff. I recommend this to everyone in all ages. It will give you insights on what's reality.

3.8/5

This book reall exposes the realities of misogyny and societal inequality faced by countless women. Throughout the story, I found myself deeply empathizing with Jiyoung's struggles, her frustration mirroring experiences many women can relate to on a personal level.

However the constant barrage of statistics felt distracting. These facts, while intended to add context, occasionally pulled me out of the emotional flow of the story. It felt like reading a thesis at times. The ending kind of left me hanging too. I would have liked to know for sure if Jiyoung got better, but the book doesn't really say. Still, even without a clear ending, the story made me think a lot.

Kim Jiyoung, Born 1982 serves as a powerful reminder of the challenges women continue to face. It shows how much things need to change for women to be treated fairly. It makes you mad, but it also makes you think, and that's a good thing.

4.8

I am just so damn happy for this book, and the series as a whole. It never failed my expectations, not even a tiny bit! It was very fun and kept me attached to the plot. After 5 books, we finally get to know what the GREAT PROPHECY is all about. So much has happened in this book that some parts seems to become a blur to me.

For the characters, i was so happy for Percy's mom because she finally found someone who truly deserves her. Nico di Angelo's character was a great deal in this book and I'm glad he didn't actually turn out like the person I'd thought he'd be. And Luke was kind of the real hero here (i won't spoil so just read it). And guess what, PERCABETH is official!!!

I don't wanna say too much because my reviews are getting really tedious and what I have to say is almost similar to the previous books. I just really think that this was the best ending for such an unforgettable series. It won't dissapoint you with its ending. I RECOMMEND OH SO SO SO MUCH!!!

4.1

Ok this series is getting kinda inappropriate for children. I'm not even sure if it's a children's book anymore, since this one has a lot of dark, scary, and sensitive content in it. Nevertheless, it was still a fun and quick read just like the previous books. I really find it funny when Aunt Josephine keeps correcting everyone's grammatical errors. The kids always find a way to get out of their misfortunes, so there's really nothing to worry about them. But still, you can't help but sympathize. I'm enjoying this series so far and I'm off to read the 4th book, which is “The Miserable Mill”.

4.5/5

If you choose the audiobook, prepare to be blown away. Each character has their own distinct voice, making it feel like a real documentary.

Witnessing the band's meteoric rise, and inevitable fallout really got to me. I don't even have the words to even do a full review. This might do for now. JUST GO READ IT!!!

All these years, Goodreads still hasn't implemented a half-star rating? But yeah, 4.5/5 for me.

I read this last night from 12:00-2:00 AM and here's my full review on this book:

Set in a world where there is no color, suffering, pain, diseases, war, etc., The Giver is a magnificent story that depicts a what we so called a Utopian society. Every person has an essential role to maintain and help the Community to function precisely. Everything was just PERFECT. Although everything started changing when our young protagonist, Jonas, was honoured as the new Receiver of Memory at age twelve. Memories that are utterly unknown by the society, memories that will surely change his perspectives in life. The world that Jonas lives in is completely different from he world we're living right now. Everything is controlled by government and everyone's fate is sort of planned out already. Nothing new ever happens, nothing seems to change anymore. Human feelings were eliminated, to eradicate problems and conflicts that would just ruin their perfect kind of living.

Lois Lowry's writing style fascinated me. The setting was very unique and I felt a strong connection towards the characters, especially Jonas and The Giver. And of course, Baby Gabriel. The entire story used wonderful details which will surely draw every reader in. It's not very fast-paced, and things weren't rushed to let everyone process every bit of detail in the story. Lowry's imagination led us to a world we know nothing about.

I strongly recommend this book to all ages, most importantly to children. It will teach them how to properly perceive the world with their five senses. It will not only be entertaining to read, but will also give you new perspectives in the world we're living. This book is going to leave you with a different outlook in life, and a much brightened sense of reality.

4.3/5

I really enjoyed reading this book, and it took me only a day to finish it. I honestly think this is one of John Green's strongest work as I didn't really like his previous books, with the exception of The Fault in Our Stars.

The real power of the book lies in its portrayal of mental illness. Aza's struggles with OCD felt so raw and unfiltered. It wasn't sugar-coated, and I really felt sorry for her most of the time. It opened my eyes to what someone with OCD might go through every day. Daisy, on the other hand, is a total gem. She's very supportive, quirky, and fiercely loyal. Honestly, who wouldn't want a friend like her? I'm starting to miss my best friend who I haven't spoken to in years.

Now, the familiar John Green tropes are there. There's the quirky dialogue, the coming-of-age story, and the exploration of love and loss. I know his writing is becoming really predictable, but I think it adds a layer of comfort to the story.

Overall, Turtles All the Way Down is a thought-provoking and relatable story. It's funny, it's sad, and ultimately hopeful. If you're struggling with anything, mental health or otherwise, don't be afraid to reach out for help.

4.7

A NEAR PERFECT CHILDREN'S BOOK!!!

I pretty much grew up on the 1995 film version of the book, and I remember watching it religiously since we used to have it on VCD. If I were to compare the book and the film, of course, the book would be better. There were a lot of details that were not present in the film and some scenes were changed. Nevertheless, the ALT film can stand on its own since Cuaron (director) depicted it in such a magical and fairytale-like way.

This book is just amazing. The story was so wonderful and it will keep you engaged and wanting for more, no matter how old you are. It has a set of characters that are so memorable, they will be a part of you for the rest of your life. It's very inspirational and emits a lot of emotion. If you have children, this will be a perfect book to read to them before they sleep. Or you can also read this while doing laundry in a rainy afternoon.

I just can't recommend this enough. It was well-written and full of life lessons. Happy to have read this during a 4 hour-long trip.

4/5

I decided to give this a read because I heard nothing but good things with the Netflix adaptation. So I thought to myself... if the Netflix show was well-received, maybe the source material is also very good? And there I was...picking this book up after a long time sitting around in my book shelf.

I finished this book overnight, yes OVERNIGHT, and that's actually something good. I finished it because it was very compelling. The way the story Hannah's story unfolds, the perfect pacing, and Jay Asher's writing. I can somewhat see Stephen King's influence on him with this book. It's a powerful book and it was an emotional ride with this one. I felt sadness, joy, rage, happiness, disgust, etc. It's a book that addresses the issues of suicide and bullying without getting it right INTO your face.

It's a book that should be read by everyone! By everyone I mean not just teens/pre-teens, as well as adults and parents who have children going through adolescence. Reading this book will make you understand them more, and also realize how one misdemeanor can have a long-lasting negative effect on a person. The topics in this book are not light and not easy to discuss.

With all that being said, I'm now ready to watch the Netflix original series. I got my feels ready!

3.8

I'm a big fan of Harry Potter and I thoroughly enjoyed this book because it brought me back to my childhood and the wizarding world. As a Potterhead, of course I would read anything that provides continuation to the Harry Potter legacy. But for some reason, even if I enjoyed it, my reactions were mixed.

I love the fact that JK Rowling can pull anything out of her creative ass; and by ass, I mean her brain. Then I realized, this is a play... not a novel or even a film. So it's actually hard for me to visualize everything from a stage play perspective. So maybe I should re-read it again for several times to gain a better respect for this book/script.

Lots of characters pop up. From the old ones, to the new ones. Obviously, my favorite is still Draco Malfoy. As for the story, sometimes it feels like it's trying too hard, but it still works nonetheless. The Time-Turner seems to be the key feature on the over-all story, and I'm not even complaining (the Time-Turner part in PoA was the bomb).

Overall, this was a good and fast-read book. Nothing you can say a lot compared to the previous books/novels. Now, I'm fascinated to know how they pull-off this story on stage, since the scenes are constantly changing. Will definitely recommend this to all the Potterheads out there. It's not the best, but you know, Potterheads will still approve.

4.6

4/5

This book was such a real page-turner. I honestly couldn't put it down! The story kept racing forward, leaving me interested on what will happen next., and I have to give Crouch major props for taking a complex scientific concept like the multiverse and turning it into a thrilling, easy-to-follow story. It wasn't bogged down by heavy science jargon, making it enjoyable even for people who aren't usually fans of anything sci-fi.

However, there were a few things that kept it from being a perfect read. The character development, particularly for Amanda (my gurl), felt rushed. She was easily my favorite character, and I would have loved to see a more satisfying conclusion to her story after she split from Jason. What happens to her? Ugh. There were also moments that felt a bit too repetitive, and both the beginning and ending just seemed weaker compared to the middle section.

Overall, Dark Matter was a fun, fast-paced read. I just don't know what to feel for that ending. But yeah, I'm really stoked for the Apple TV+ adaptation!

P.S. Petition for Blake Crouch to do a separate story/novella for Amanda! :'(

I am in such deep regret for not being able to read this (as well as The Giver) way back in high school. I remember seeing a film adaptation of this way back when I was still a child, but I don't remember a single detail about it's story. It was all a blur. People kept raving about this book (including USA President Barack Obama) even after it was first published way back in 1960.

Harper Lee has written not just a magnificent story, she also created characters ever put into paper: Atticus, Jem, and Scout Finch, Boo Radley, Dill, the Ewells, Tim Robinson, etc. You will get attached to them in a heartbeat.

This book may be about the court trial of Tim Robinson as it's potential climax, but there is more than that as the story progresses. I really love how they tackled issues about racism and diversity. That everyone should be treated equal despite one's color, race, and nationality. It also talks about the flaws of humanity, and how it's slowly deteriorating.

I recommend this to everyone, young or old. It's just that brilliant and will leave a mark in your heart. You won't easily forget how amazing this book is.

4.0

I think we could all agree that Lang Leav is one of the most amazing poets/authors of today's generation. The words she uses to deliver her poems are universal and it can move you. It was proven in her first two books, Love & Misadventure and Lullabies.

But there's one problem with this one. This book is a collection of her best poems on her first two books. It included a few new poems, but it didn't appeal to me that much. As I was getting through the deeper pages, it started to feel extremely repetitive. It's basically like buying the first two books all over again.

I wouldn't recommend this book if you already have her first two books, unless of course it's your first time getting into Lang Leav's poems. For those who already owned Love & Misadventure and Lullabies, it's up to you if you still want to read this. Otherwise, you're not really missing out on much.