When Devils Sing is a fun mystery with a haunting atmosphere. Set in a small town with a dark secret, the story explores the divide between the wealthWhen Devils Sing is a fun mystery with a haunting atmosphere. Set in a small town with a dark secret, the story explores the divide between the wealthy elite and those who suffer under their rule. The eerie setting and suspenseful storyline made for an enjoyable read, and I found myself eager to uncover the truth behind the town’s mysteries.
The book does a great job of building tension, with secrets unraveling in unexpected ways. The writing style is immersive, and the eerie tone adds to the novel’s appeal. There were some genuinely chilling moments that stood out, and it did get pretty gory at times. The themes of power, corruption, and justice were well done, adding depth to the story beyond just the whodunit aspect.
However, one challenge I had with the book was the number of POVs. While multiple perspectives can add intrigue, a couple of the characters felt too similar, making it easy to lose track of who was speaking. I had to backtrack to clarify which character’s perspective I was reading at times. A bit more distinction between the voices would have helped keep the narrative smoother. I was also hoping for a bit more characters development or depth. We only got glimpses of their layers here and there and then it would switch.
I also felt that the storyline about the three devils ended abruptly. It was one of the most intriguing parts of the book, but we didn't end up getting much of their story. It just wrapped up quickly—almost like a "kthxbye" moment. It left me wanting more, especially given how much suspense had built around it.
Overall, When Devils Sing is still a solid mystery with a compelling premise and a chilling atmosphere. If you enjoy small-town mysteries, it’s worth checking out!...more
I couldn’t get into this one and ended up DNF-ing it. The writing style didn’t click with me—especially the overuse of parentheses, which was more disI couldn’t get into this one and ended up DNF-ing it. The writing style didn’t click with me—especially the overuse of parentheses, which was more distracting than anything. The magic system also felt too dense for me, I was already pretty lost, so I decided to move on. It might work for others, but it just isn't my style....more
A chilling and important read, Diana Rodriguez Wallach’s The Silenced is a gripping horror novel that delivers more than just scares—it carries a crucA chilling and important read, Diana Rodriguez Wallach’s The Silenced is a gripping horror novel that delivers more than just scares—it carries a crucial, terrifying message about the realities of the Troubled Teen Industry (TTI) programs and other institutions that have harmed countless youths. Youths who were left to fend for themselves at the hands of so much evil. We likely will never even know the worst of it, sadly..
With the discoveries in recent years of Canada’s Residential Schools that I followed a lot—where thousands of Indigenous children suffered and died, left in unmarked graves—it’s heartbreaking to see stories that echo such real-world tragedies. The way The Silenced mirrors the experiences of teens worldwide who have been subjected to similar abuse makes it all the more impactful. This is something that needs to be talked about more and, even more importantly, governed a lot more.
I really enjoyed Wallach’s writing style; it was engaging and made for a quick read. The haunting aspect of the story did feel a bit cliché and predictable, though, reminiscent of many horror movies I’ve seen before (particularly the Japanese version of "Shutter" that I watched a decade back with that ghost on his back. I never forget her. I can't watch those anymore lol). While it added to the eerie atmosphere, it wasn’t the most original part of the book for me.
Overall, The Silenced is a strong, thought-provoking novel that horror fans will appreciate. While some elements feel familiar, its message is deeply important, making it a worthwhile and unsettling read....more
Our Infinite Fates is such a creative and emotional read! At first I wasn’t totally sure where it was going and I didn't connect to the story right awOur Infinite Fates is such a creative and emotional read! At first I wasn’t totally sure where it was going and I didn't connect to the story right away- especially in regards to their romance. I couldn't feel this "deep connection" they supposedly had, having not had a chance to get to know the characters yet. I felt like I was kept on the surface, kinda. But as the story progressed and I got to learn their backstory - and especially the "why" of all the killings - I was completely hooked. It’s mostly a love story, but with a really interesting concept that kept me guessing the whole time.
The way the story flips between past and present worked really well, especially with the flashbacks giving us the backstory of their love and everything they went through. It made the eventual emotional moments hit even harder. Each flashback also kept making me all the more curious as to why this was happening to them. I had so many theories about what was really going on, and I was sure at least one of them had to be right—but I was way off. I love it when I still get shocked by the twists (it's actually rare after so many books lol)!
While the book does lean heavily into romance, it’s more than just a love story - it’s a reflection on fate, choices, and the infinite possibilities that shape our lives. Overall, it's an engrossing read, full of twists, heartache, and hope. If you love stories that make you feel deeply while also making you think, Our Infinite Fates is definitely worth picking up!...more
Rory Power’s Kill Creatures is a solid mystery novel with an eerie atmosphere and a fun whodunit plot. The story keeps you engaged as the characters pRory Power’s Kill Creatures is a solid mystery novel with an eerie atmosphere and a fun whodunit plot. The story keeps you engaged as the characters piece together the truth. While the mystery itself is enjoyable to unravel, it does rely on some familiar tropes, though. It felt predictable at time, which took away some of the suspense, but the overall pacing kept things moving. Power’s writing style is immersive, creating a moody and unsettling tone that fits the story well.
One aspect that didn’t fully work for me was the friendship between the main characters. Their dynamic felt a bit forced, and it took me a while to understand them. It did all end up making sense eventually, however. Another thing that struck me as odd was the protagonist’s memory loss—while it serves as a key plot device, it sometimes felt a little too convenient and I didn't understand how she even lost the memory of it all, tbh.
That said, Kill Creatures is an entertaining read. It's a guilty-pleasure read, and a good choice for fans of small-town mysteries with eerie undertones. It just may not leave a lasting impression....more
OMFG!!! This is an absolute masterpiece! From the very start I was completely engrossed in this imaginative, deeply compelling world. The level of detaOMFG!!! This is an absolute masterpiece! From the very start I was completely engrossed in this imaginative, deeply compelling world. The level of detail and originality in this story is unmatched—it’s terrifying yet mesmerizing, filled with elements that feel fresh and unlike anything I’ve read before. The trains, the traveling between worlds, the boardinghouses, the markets... every little aspect of this world (these worlds...) adds to the tension and intrigue, making it impossible to put down. It's also thought provoking in a way that makes you reflect on time and what little -or a lot- we have of it.
The character development is also amazing. These characters... they feel so real, so vivid, that you can’t help but grow attached to them. Their emotions, flaws, and personal journeys are written with such depth that it feels like you’re right there with them, living through every moment. I became so invested that they started to feel like my own friends.
And then there’s the romance… slow-burning, tender, and so beautifully done. The relationship between the main characters developed at the perfect pace, making it all the more satisfying. I loved watching them grow as individuals while also finding their way to each other. It was sweet, heartfelt, and incredibly rewarding.
And that ending. That. Ending!! I both loved and hated it, and I honestly don’t know how I’ll survive the wait for the sequel. I NEED it immediately!!
If you’re looking for a book that’s fresh, thrilling, so freaking unique, and brilliantly written, Skipshock is an absolute must-read. I can’t recommend it enough!...more
I really wanted to love this one but I just couldn’t connect with it. The premise started off intriguing and atmospheric, then leaned DNF Review (25%)
I really wanted to love this one but I just couldn’t connect with it. The premise started off intriguing and atmospheric, then leaned too heavily on the greek history angle for me. Maybe I should have read reviews first so it's partially on me - I based my choice on the blurb alone. It just wasn’t holding my interest enough to continue....more
Immortal Consequences has such a fun concept! The idea of purgatory and what happens in the afterlife is really unique and hooked me right away. It haImmortal Consequences has such a fun concept! The idea of purgatory and what happens in the afterlife is really unique and hooked me right away. It had a strong start that pulled me in from the first chapter, but as the story went on, it started to feel a bit scattered.
The book jumps between a lot of different characters’ points of view (I believe 5 or 6), which was both good and bad for me. While this adds depth and nuance, it also made the narrative feel somewhat disjointed at times, as I had to frequently switch gears between characters. I think ultimately this was the downfall for me as I was unable to really connect with all these different voices.
The action scenes were super descriptive and kind of cool. I did feel there lacked clarity in the trials - like things felt "out of the blue" at times. And the thing about being able to feel pain and die again was a bit strange and ultimately pulled me out of the story more than I would have liked. While I understand the concept was needed in a way, to give us suspense and danger, I was just wondering how their organs are still working!? Maybe I'm an over-thinker lol!
That said, I think book two could be exciting! Now that the groundwork is laid, I’m hoping we’ll be able to delve into the depths of the afterlife and all its layers. There’s definitely potential for the series to grow into something really awesome.
Overall, it’s a creative story with some great ideas. If you like stories with a lot of different characters, unique world-building, and cool action scenes, this one's for you!...more
“She felt scared, as she watched her best friend lose control to a monster.”
Omg, I loved this so much!! Fans of gothic literature are in for a treat w“She felt scared, as she watched her best friend lose control to a monster.”
Omg, I loved this so much!! Fans of gothic literature are in for a treat with this one. The dark, mysterious vibe throughout the book is utterly captivating, making it feel super original and completely engrossing.
The story is written in third person, so I didn’t feel an intense connection to the main character, but that didn’t matter. The tone, the eerie storyline, the layers of mystery, and even the evocative descriptions of the dancing Marionettes all combine to create a mesmerizing read.
“The Marionette and the boy of dust and smoke.” The romance in this book is a tad insta-lovey but unique in its tragic and bittersweet beauty. It’s not the central focus, but it lingers in your thoughts long after reading.
What truly stood out to me, though, was the relationship between the sisters. It’s sweet yet steeped in doom and darkness. I liked their personalities and how they supported each other, knowing they had to face this horror together.
The ending is... tragic, happy, sad... painful yet perfect, leaving a haunting sense of closure that felt entirely fitting for the story.
If you love gothic tales with haunting vibes and layered storytelling, Girls of Dark Divine is a must-read. This one is going to stay with me for a long time!...more
The concept of a virus that makes everyone happy definitely had me raising an eyebrow when I first checked this book out. It sounded weird—kind of comThe concept of a virus that makes everyone happy definitely had me raising an eyebrow when I first checked this book out. It sounded weird—kind of comedic in a way, like would this be dumb?—but I’m a sucker for a good apocalyptic book so I decided to dive in. While it didn’t blow me away, it did keep me more engaged than I expected.
One of the book’s strengths is its cast of characters. The dynamics between them feel solid, and the story is told from multiple points of view, which actually worked pretty well. I liked how all the perspectives eventually connected, sometimes in unexpected ways.
The plot itself is thought-provoking, exploring both sides of a deeply divisive pandemic. It gets you questioning things, like what price are we willing to pay to get someone to see our side? That said, the COVID references I could have done without. I get why it was relevant, but honestly, I’m over thinking about that crazy ass time lol! The ending was intriguing, leaving just enough unanswered to keep me thinking after I finished the book.
Overall, All Better Now wasn’t a perfect read for me, but it had enough momentum to keep me turning the pages. ...more
Soulmatch gives us a compelling concept that explores souls and reincarnation in a futuristic setting. From the very beginning, the writing drew me inSoulmatch gives us a compelling concept that explores souls and reincarnation in a futuristic setting. From the very beginning, the writing drew me in with its easy flow, making it effortless to lose myself in the words.
The romance in Soulmatch was one of my favorite aspects of the book. The characters shared great chemistry, and the idea of soulmates added depth and intrigue to their connection. While Sivon could be a bit dramatic at times, I found her likeable overall. The ending, a sweet and satisfying HEA, left me with a smile.
The world-building did leave something to be desired, though. While definitions are provided at the beginning of each chapter, they often come too late, leaving questions unanswered for some of the narrative. Key aspects of the world, such as the Fringe and the roles of specs, remain under-explored. These gaps made it difficult to fully immerse myself and picture this futuristic universe. Also the double names sometimes were confusing (I kept forgetting who was who when their other name was used, especially the lesser characters).
The pacing was mostly strong, with the story flowing well until the MC leaves SIK. This part dragged a bit and felt directionless before the story regained its momentum, keeping me on edge until the satisfying conclusion.
Overall, Soulmatch is an enjoyable read with an intriguing romance and strong writing. While the world-building and pacing faltered at times, the story’s strengths made it a worthwhile journey!
Gothic mystery novels are a favorite of mine, and Dreaming Darkly is an eerie novel that, albeit a bit predictable and dramatic at times, was3.5 stars
Gothic mystery novels are a favorite of mine, and Dreaming Darkly is an eerie novel that, albeit a bit predictable and dramatic at times, was an exciting read overall.
After the death of Ivy's mother, she's sent back to her family's old manor on a private island off the coast of Maine. When she gets there, she finds that not everything and everyone is at it seems, and strange dreams start feeling a bit too real. I found this story really intriguing from the very first page. Ivy's life with her mom, her mom's mysterious past, her family's history are all really interesting. I found myself flying to the pages to find out every detail I could about this ominous family tree. This mystery aspect is done really well, with a good combination of twists and turns that are scattered throughout.
The atmosphere in the book is fantastic as well. The imagery of this secluded island full of secrets and lies and murders is vivid and hair-raising. It makes the story all the more intense as you know these characters are isolated from the real world. Left on their own with family members who are essentially strangers. Strangers that she keeps being warned about...
So why did I not rate this 4 stars? While I enjoyed the moody, dark vibe in this book, I found the story itself to be quite predictable. While I never figured out all the details, I had a good idea from pretty early on what was happening to Ivy - why she was having these hallucinations and lucid dreams. I kept wanting to scream at her for being so trusting, especially after living the life she lived with her mother - she should have known better. I also found her outbursts to be a bit melodramatic. She's portrayed as a hard-ass, tough-skinned scam artist who lived a rough crime-filled life, yet she reacts like a 6 year old when someone calls her names.
All in all, Dreaming Darkly is dark and cryptic, with a terrible family secret that will leave you turning the pages. ...more
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