aly's bookshelf: all en-US Fri, 04 Jul 2025 04:53:58 -0700 60 aly's bookshelf: all 144 41 /images/layout/goodreads_logo_144.jpg The Village Beyond the Mist 216680405 With nostalgic charm and gentle magic so characteristic of award-winning Sachiko Kashiwaba, The Village Beyond the Mist, which inspired Spirited Away, will captivate and enchant readers of all ages.

This timeless and enduring Japanese classic from 1975 served as the inspiration for the beloved Studio Ghibli film, Spirited Away, and ​it's available​ for the first time to English-speaking readers. The story follows Lina, a sixth-grade girl who embarks on a solo train journey to spend the summer in a rural village. However, upon arrival, she discovers that the valley's might not exist!

Through a mysterious encounter involving wind, mist, and a magic umbrella, she arrives at a grand house on a cobbled street. As Lina adapts to her new responsibilities around town, she learns more about friendship and herself than she previously thought possible.]]> 160 Sachiko Kashiwaba 1632063921 aly 4 The Village Beyond the Mist is a quietly enchanting fantasy that feels like stepping into a dream. Though famously known as the inspiration behind Studio Ghibli’s Spirited Away, this book stands on its own as a tender, introspective tale about growth, community, and the small wonders hidden in everyday life.

Encouraged by her father, sixth-grader Lina Uesugi sets off on her first solo journey during summer vacation, heading to a quiet rural village. But when she arrives, the valley seems to vanish until a gust of wind, a swirl of mist, and a wayward umbrella led her to Absurd Avenue; a cobbled street lined with peculiar shops and even more peculiar inhabitants. Here, under the stern but not unkind rule of "those who do not work, do not eat," Lina takes on odd jobs, meets eccentric characters, and slowly discovers her own resilience.

What makes this book so special is its gentle, slice-of-life approach to fantasy. Unlike grand, high-stakes adventures, Lina’s journey is subtle—a quiet coming-of-age shaped by small tasks and the warmth of strangers who feel like old friends. The town’s magic lies in its simplicity: a hedge of azaleas blooming unexpectedly, the rhythm of daily chores, and the unspoken bonds formed over shared meals. It is a world that feels both fantastical and deeply familiar, where the boundary between reality and imagination dissolves effortlessly.

Fans of Spirited Away will recognize faint echoes—a strange world with rules, oddball characters, and having to work to belong yet this book is gentler. There’s no villain, no epic battle; just a girl learning to navigate uncertainty with curiosity and kindness. The prose, paired with whimsical black-and-white illustrations, evokes a sense of childlike wonder, as if the story itself is a secret passed between generations.

To call this merely a children’s book is to miss the point entirely. I am always happy to read classic children's literature that is a fantasy of everyday life. It’s a mirror: for young readers, an adventure; for grown-ups, a reminder of the small, gleaming details we have learned to overlook. It resists conventional critique where children would not dissect its grand themes or morals but will absorb it through pure, vivid sensation. If there is a lesson here, it is not preached but whispered, that wonder is not hidden in some distant realm, but tangle into the ordinary, waiting for anyone willing to look.

So you know the saying: pick up this book and be spirited away.]]> 3.80 1975 The Village Beyond the Mist
author: Sachiko Kashiwaba
name: aly
average rating: 3.80
book published: 1975
rating: 4
read at: 2025/06/09
date added: 2025/07/04
shelves:
review:
The Village Beyond the Mist is a quietly enchanting fantasy that feels like stepping into a dream. Though famously known as the inspiration behind Studio Ghibli’s Spirited Away, this book stands on its own as a tender, introspective tale about growth, community, and the small wonders hidden in everyday life.

Encouraged by her father, sixth-grader Lina Uesugi sets off on her first solo journey during summer vacation, heading to a quiet rural village. But when she arrives, the valley seems to vanish until a gust of wind, a swirl of mist, and a wayward umbrella led her to Absurd Avenue; a cobbled street lined with peculiar shops and even more peculiar inhabitants. Here, under the stern but not unkind rule of "those who do not work, do not eat," Lina takes on odd jobs, meets eccentric characters, and slowly discovers her own resilience.

What makes this book so special is its gentle, slice-of-life approach to fantasy. Unlike grand, high-stakes adventures, Lina’s journey is subtle—a quiet coming-of-age shaped by small tasks and the warmth of strangers who feel like old friends. The town’s magic lies in its simplicity: a hedge of azaleas blooming unexpectedly, the rhythm of daily chores, and the unspoken bonds formed over shared meals. It is a world that feels both fantastical and deeply familiar, where the boundary between reality and imagination dissolves effortlessly.

Fans of Spirited Away will recognize faint echoes—a strange world with rules, oddball characters, and having to work to belong yet this book is gentler. There’s no villain, no epic battle; just a girl learning to navigate uncertainty with curiosity and kindness. The prose, paired with whimsical black-and-white illustrations, evokes a sense of childlike wonder, as if the story itself is a secret passed between generations.

To call this merely a children’s book is to miss the point entirely. I am always happy to read classic children's literature that is a fantasy of everyday life. It’s a mirror: for young readers, an adventure; for grown-ups, a reminder of the small, gleaming details we have learned to overlook. It resists conventional critique where children would not dissect its grand themes or morals but will absorb it through pure, vivid sensation. If there is a lesson here, it is not preached but whispered, that wonder is not hidden in some distant realm, but tangle into the ordinary, waiting for anyone willing to look.

So you know the saying: pick up this book and be spirited away.
]]> <![CDATA[The Second Chance Convenience Store]]> 217432781 In this million-copy international bestseller from Korea, the owner of a corner store takes in an unhoused man who does a good deed, a kind soul whose presence will transform the whole neighborhood—a heartwarming tale of community and redemption reminiscent of the bestselling novels of Matt Haig and Gabrielle Zevin.

Dok-go lives in Seoul Station. He can’t remember his past, and the only thing he knows for certain is that he could really use a drink. When he finds a lost wallet filled with documents, his life is drastically changed.

Mrs. Yeom, a retired history teacher and current owner of her neighborhood’s corner store, is distraught over the loss of her purse, until she receives a mysterious call from the person who found it. To thank this down-on-his-luck stranger, she offers him a free meal from the convenience store. Seeing the joy the food brings him, Mrs. Yeom impulsively invites him to stop by for lunch every day.

In a twist of fate, Dok-go saves the store from a robber—a brave act that propels Mrs. Yeom to offers the bear-like man a job working the night shift, despite the objections of her wary employees. The store’s new employee quickly wins over the quirky denizens of the neighborhood, becoming a welcoming ear and source of advice for his coworkers and neighbors’ problems, and helping his new boss save the store from financial ruin. But just when things are looking up for Dok-go, Mrs. Yeom's good-for-nothing son, eager to sell the store, hires a detective to dig into the mysterious man’s past and what he seems to be trying so hard to forget.

The Second Chance Convenience Store is a moving and joyful story of a woman fighting for her community and a man who has lost everything except the will to try again.]]> 208 Kim Ho-yeon 0063354772 aly 4 The Second Chance Convenience Store begins with a simple yet profound premise: Yoon, the owner of a small convenience store in Seoul, offers a homeless man named Dokgo a chance at redemption by giving him a job. At first, Dokgo is clumsy and unsure, struggling to adapt to the rhythms of store life. But as days pass, his quiet warmth and sincerity begin to touch the lives of customers, turning the store into more than just a place of transactions—it becomes a refuge, a community, and a mirror reflecting the struggles and small joys of everyday people.

What makes this novel so compelling is its ability to find depth in the ordinary. Dokgo, an alcoholic suffering from dementia, carries no memory of his past, yet his presence becomes a quiet force of connection. The customers, each carrying their own burdens find solace in his unassuming kindness. The convenience store, often dismissed as just another mundane stop in our busy lives, transforms into a microcosm of society, where loneliness, resilience, and fleeting human connections intersect. Originally published in 2021, in a world still reeling from the isolation of the pandemic, this story feels like a gentle reminder of the humanity we have lost and the bridges we can still rebuild.

I read this book in a week that I have to travel for work which is not ideal. I find the book to be such a slog read but later found the beauty in taking my time with it and immersed with what the book is trying to deliver. Beyond being a heartwarming tale, this book offers a subtle critique of how we navigate the world. Too often, we judge people by their surfaces: the homeless man is just another statistic, the convenience store worker merely a background figure in our daily routines. Dokgo’s character challenges these assumptions. His past, though obscured by his condition, hints at a life once as full and complex as anyone else’s. The novel forces us to confront our own biases, asking: How many people have we overlooked simply because they do not fit neatly into our worldview?

The beauty of this story lies in its quiet realism. There are no dramatic twists; just the slow, sometimes messy process of people learning to see one another. Dokgo’s growth isn’t marked by sudden epiphanies but by small, earned moments of trust. A customer who once eyed him warily begins to exchange casual greetings; the store owner, initially skeptical, starts to rely on him. These shifts feel genuine, making the emotional payoff all the more satisfying.

That is not to say the novel is without flaws. Some might argue that certain plot points feel contrived or that the ending wraps up a little too neatly. Yet, these criticisms hardly diminish the book’s impact. What it lacks in narrative perfection, it makes up for in emotional resonance. What struck me most was how the novel reframes the spaces we take for granted. This book urges us to pause, to look closer, and to recognize that even the most momentary interactions can hold meaning.

I honestly like its original, far more fitting Korean title which translates to "The Inconvenient Convenience Store" as it captures the essence of the book better. Nevertheless, if you are looking for a book that blends warmth with wisdom, one that celebrates the extraordinary in the ordinary, this is it. It is a story that stays with you, gently nudging you to be a little kinder, a little more present because you never know whose life you might be unwittingly part of.]]> 4.02 2021 The Second Chance Convenience Store
author: Kim Ho-yeon
name: aly
average rating: 4.02
book published: 2021
rating: 4
read at: 2025/06/27
date added: 2025/07/04
shelves:
review:
The Second Chance Convenience Store begins with a simple yet profound premise: Yoon, the owner of a small convenience store in Seoul, offers a homeless man named Dokgo a chance at redemption by giving him a job. At first, Dokgo is clumsy and unsure, struggling to adapt to the rhythms of store life. But as days pass, his quiet warmth and sincerity begin to touch the lives of customers, turning the store into more than just a place of transactions—it becomes a refuge, a community, and a mirror reflecting the struggles and small joys of everyday people.

What makes this novel so compelling is its ability to find depth in the ordinary. Dokgo, an alcoholic suffering from dementia, carries no memory of his past, yet his presence becomes a quiet force of connection. The customers, each carrying their own burdens find solace in his unassuming kindness. The convenience store, often dismissed as just another mundane stop in our busy lives, transforms into a microcosm of society, where loneliness, resilience, and fleeting human connections intersect. Originally published in 2021, in a world still reeling from the isolation of the pandemic, this story feels like a gentle reminder of the humanity we have lost and the bridges we can still rebuild.

I read this book in a week that I have to travel for work which is not ideal. I find the book to be such a slog read but later found the beauty in taking my time with it and immersed with what the book is trying to deliver. Beyond being a heartwarming tale, this book offers a subtle critique of how we navigate the world. Too often, we judge people by their surfaces: the homeless man is just another statistic, the convenience store worker merely a background figure in our daily routines. Dokgo’s character challenges these assumptions. His past, though obscured by his condition, hints at a life once as full and complex as anyone else’s. The novel forces us to confront our own biases, asking: How many people have we overlooked simply because they do not fit neatly into our worldview?

The beauty of this story lies in its quiet realism. There are no dramatic twists; just the slow, sometimes messy process of people learning to see one another. Dokgo’s growth isn’t marked by sudden epiphanies but by small, earned moments of trust. A customer who once eyed him warily begins to exchange casual greetings; the store owner, initially skeptical, starts to rely on him. These shifts feel genuine, making the emotional payoff all the more satisfying.

That is not to say the novel is without flaws. Some might argue that certain plot points feel contrived or that the ending wraps up a little too neatly. Yet, these criticisms hardly diminish the book’s impact. What it lacks in narrative perfection, it makes up for in emotional resonance. What struck me most was how the novel reframes the spaces we take for granted. This book urges us to pause, to look closer, and to recognize that even the most momentary interactions can hold meaning.

I honestly like its original, far more fitting Korean title which translates to "The Inconvenient Convenience Store" as it captures the essence of the book better. Nevertheless, if you are looking for a book that blends warmth with wisdom, one that celebrates the extraordinary in the ordinary, this is it. It is a story that stays with you, gently nudging you to be a little kinder, a little more present because you never know whose life you might be unwittingly part of.
]]> <![CDATA[Garlic and the Vampire: A Graphic Novel]]> 56470362 A farm-fresh debut graphic novel starring a heroine who is braver than she realizes.

Garlic feels as though she’s always doing something wrong. At least with her friend Carrot by her side and the kindly Witch Agnes encouraging her, Garlic is happy to just tend her garden, where it’s nice and safe.

But when her village of vegetable folk learns that a bloodthirsty vampire has moved into the nearby castle, they all agree that, in spite of her fear and self-doubt, Garlic is the obvious choice to confront him. And with everyone counting on her, Garlic reluctantly agrees to face the mysterious vampire, hoping she has what it takes.

After all, garlic drives away vampires…right?]]> 160 Bree Paulsen 006299509X aly 4
Garlic and her vegetable friends were brought to life by a kind witch whose garden they used to help care for. They live freely, planting and harvesting things they chose as Witch Agnes sees them as independent, with minds of their own. But even with a peaceful life and her best friend Carrot by her side, Garlic can’t shake the feeling that she is always messing something up. Until everything changes... Rumor spreads that a vampire has moved into the castle nearby which has the other veggies scared, but they all agree: Garlic should be the one to face him. After all, garlic keeps vampires away.

To say that I am head over heels for these illustrations would be an understatement: I am completely enchanted! The artist’s choices are nothing short of brilliant: a lush, moody palette, stunning environmental details, and a style so consistent it feels like stepping into a living world. Every page is a feast for the eyes, dripping with gothic charm and autumnal warmth. As someone who always adored the eerie elegance of gothic horror and the cozy melancholy of fall, this graphic novel feels like it was crafted just for me.

On the surface, this is a simple, easy-to-follow graphic novel which makes it a perfect read for kids. The story wraps up a bit abruptly, leaving me wishing for more, but that’s only because I was so immersed in Garlic’s world. Despite her constant anxiety, she steps up with courage and determination to protect her community, making her a relatable and inspiring character.

Nevertheless, all things considered, this book is dedicated to all the anxious bulbs out there which says it all. It's a wonderful tool for discussing anxiety with young readers, gently showing them that even when fear lingers, bravery isn’t about being unafraid but doing what matters anyway. A heartfelt lesson wrapped in whimsy.

Wholeheartedly recommended ♡]]> 4.28 2021 Garlic and the Vampire: A Graphic Novel
author: Bree Paulsen
name: aly
average rating: 4.28
book published: 2021
rating: 4
read at: 2025/06/16
date added: 2025/07/04
shelves:
review:
This book perfectly captures the epitome of why garlic has always been my favorite spice through and through, and I could not get over how just delightful this novel is! I usually get my graphic novels through ARCs, but this is the first time I have felt such a strong urge to own a physical copy.

Garlic and her vegetable friends were brought to life by a kind witch whose garden they used to help care for. They live freely, planting and harvesting things they chose as Witch Agnes sees them as independent, with minds of their own. But even with a peaceful life and her best friend Carrot by her side, Garlic can’t shake the feeling that she is always messing something up. Until everything changes... Rumor spreads that a vampire has moved into the castle nearby which has the other veggies scared, but they all agree: Garlic should be the one to face him. After all, garlic keeps vampires away.

To say that I am head over heels for these illustrations would be an understatement: I am completely enchanted! The artist’s choices are nothing short of brilliant: a lush, moody palette, stunning environmental details, and a style so consistent it feels like stepping into a living world. Every page is a feast for the eyes, dripping with gothic charm and autumnal warmth. As someone who always adored the eerie elegance of gothic horror and the cozy melancholy of fall, this graphic novel feels like it was crafted just for me.

On the surface, this is a simple, easy-to-follow graphic novel which makes it a perfect read for kids. The story wraps up a bit abruptly, leaving me wishing for more, but that’s only because I was so immersed in Garlic’s world. Despite her constant anxiety, she steps up with courage and determination to protect her community, making her a relatable and inspiring character.

Nevertheless, all things considered, this book is dedicated to all the anxious bulbs out there which says it all. It's a wonderful tool for discussing anxiety with young readers, gently showing them that even when fear lingers, bravery isn’t about being unafraid but doing what matters anyway. A heartfelt lesson wrapped in whimsy.

Wholeheartedly recommended ♡
]]> <![CDATA[The Passengers on the Hankyu Line]]> 219206363 Famously scenic, the Hankyu commuter train trundles daily through Japanese landscape unaware of the heartaches of the passengers it carries.

On the outward journey we are introduced to the emotional dilemmas of five characters as we puzzle out how they will unravel; on the return journey six months later, we watch them resolve:

- a young man meets the young woman, who always happens to borrow a library book just before he can take it out himself
- a woman in a white bridal dress boards looking inexplicably sad
- a university student leaves his hometown for the first time
- a girl prepares to leave her abusive boyfriend;
- an old lady discusses adopting a dog with her granddaughter.

As the seasons come around, so the Hankyu line trundles on carrying the lives and loves of its passengers ever forwards.]]> 288 Hiro Arikawa 1529934915 aly 4
As someone who’s only ridden the Hankyu train a handful of times, I could still vividly picture it—so stylish, with such elegant passengers. For a while, reading this made me feel like I was one of them. The stories moved along at a perfect pace yet still gave me a satisfying glimpse of the characters’ futures. They are so heartwarming, and the love in it feels so real.

"Come to think of it, I owe a certain debt of gratitude to strangers"


Each Hankyu train station gets its own chapter, spiraling together fleeting encounters between passengers who happen to share the same train where moments so meaningful they become life-changing experiences. As the narrative loops back on itself with each stop, these seemingly random connections resolve into beautifully intertwined stories, revealing how brief meetings can ripple through lives in profound ways.

Sometimes, it's as simple as overhearing a conversation that lifts your spirits, or finding unexpected courage in a stranger’s words. There’s a quiet magic in offering kindness to someone right in front of you, someone whose name you may never know, someone who might be silently hurting, while still keeping the moment gentle and respectful.

To take a step back and reassess, this book is actually more romantic that I thought (just my cup of tea). A momentary relationship between people can change you. In today's world, where we try not to get involved with other people on the train, I feel the resilience and warmth of these characters. If you also look into the year this book was originally published, it hails from 2008; a pre-smartphone era when connections sparked in libraries or street encounters, making every meeting feel unexpectedly precious.

Breezy yet profound, this is the perfect book for when you want something uplifting but substantial. Each story unfolds with such effortless rhythm that you'll find yourself finishing it in one sitting—perhaps on a cozy weekend morning. What lingers is its quiet wisdom: someone's unhappiness can turn into happiness with someone's kindness. Nosiness isn't bad and you may just unintentionally speak to someone who is in need as you ride on the train.

Having now experienced Arikawa's storytelling magic for the first time, I can say with certainty: this won't be my last journey into her literary world.]]> 3.93 2008 The Passengers on the Hankyu Line
author: Hiro Arikawa
name: aly
average rating: 3.93
book published: 2008
rating: 4
read at: 2025/06/17
date added: 2025/07/04
shelves:
review:
Reading this book makes me miss Japan so much and I was just there twice in the last five months (the obsession). It’s bringing back all these memories of riding the Hankyu line, watching the scenery blur past on the way to Kyoto and Kobe and I just love this book to pieces.

As someone who’s only ridden the Hankyu train a handful of times, I could still vividly picture it—so stylish, with such elegant passengers. For a while, reading this made me feel like I was one of them. The stories moved along at a perfect pace yet still gave me a satisfying glimpse of the characters’ futures. They are so heartwarming, and the love in it feels so real.

"Come to think of it, I owe a certain debt of gratitude to strangers"


Each Hankyu train station gets its own chapter, spiraling together fleeting encounters between passengers who happen to share the same train where moments so meaningful they become life-changing experiences. As the narrative loops back on itself with each stop, these seemingly random connections resolve into beautifully intertwined stories, revealing how brief meetings can ripple through lives in profound ways.

Sometimes, it's as simple as overhearing a conversation that lifts your spirits, or finding unexpected courage in a stranger’s words. There’s a quiet magic in offering kindness to someone right in front of you, someone whose name you may never know, someone who might be silently hurting, while still keeping the moment gentle and respectful.

To take a step back and reassess, this book is actually more romantic that I thought (just my cup of tea). A momentary relationship between people can change you. In today's world, where we try not to get involved with other people on the train, I feel the resilience and warmth of these characters. If you also look into the year this book was originally published, it hails from 2008; a pre-smartphone era when connections sparked in libraries or street encounters, making every meeting feel unexpectedly precious.

Breezy yet profound, this is the perfect book for when you want something uplifting but substantial. Each story unfolds with such effortless rhythm that you'll find yourself finishing it in one sitting—perhaps on a cozy weekend morning. What lingers is its quiet wisdom: someone's unhappiness can turn into happiness with someone's kindness. Nosiness isn't bad and you may just unintentionally speak to someone who is in need as you ride on the train.

Having now experienced Arikawa's storytelling magic for the first time, I can say with certainty: this won't be my last journey into her literary world.
]]> One of Those Flings 55212278
Skyler’s breakup survival plan is simple: Swear off men for a year and celebrate her man cleanse with a solo tropical vacation to Hawaii. Snorkeling, sightseeing, zip lining, and leisurely dinners by the sea are just what the doctor ordered to mend her broken heart.

That is, until she meets a hunky adventure tour guide who makes her want to break all her own rules. Handsome, funny, and exciting, Caleb is by far the hottest local attraction. Will a romantic island fling lead to more heartbreak - or a new beginning?]]> Lauren Blakely aly 3
First of all, you can't expect a 77 minutes audiobook to have everything perfected. And so will I not be pointing out how this book should be better because it was obvious that this is not going to be like any other full-fledged novel. In lieu, I'll tell you what about this audiobook that works.

If I have to describe the book in one word, I'll say it's very vibrant. Each character was given a unique voice by a different actor and I truly enjoyed them. It’s also nice to have a very brief musical interlude to differentiate the storyteller parts from the story being told. Though I know some people may not like having all these backgrounds sounds as this can be disconcerting and can result in the listener losing its concentration. Still, I personally think it helps to underline the scenes and settings.

Alternatively, instead of narrating the plot to you, this full-cast narration was more akin to a screenplay/dialogues than a standard audiobook. From where I stand, this part does the trick because you either feel like you were with them during the vacation or you're watching a movie by the end which is very cool. It also helps that Lauren Blakely created a well-developed storyline and characters — you'll take in the appropriate transitional statements or phrases designed that draw you deeper into the story.

The characters are also easily likable. Skyler was a fun character, strong-willed, and completely out of her element on an adventure trip to Hawaii. Meanwhile, Caleb was a studly man who had too much love for his water job. Together, they made their time witty and lively. I just wished the narrator would say their dialogues more naturally and expressively.

As a whole, you can tell I am very much impressed with the outcome. I was hoping this book would be prolonged as it has so much potential to be good. For what it is worth, this was a welcome diversion from reality and a joy to listen to.]]> 2.95 2020 One of Those Flings
author: Lauren Blakely
name: aly
average rating: 2.95
book published: 2020
rating: 3
read at: 2022/03/17
date added: 2025/07/04
shelves:
review:
Imagine you're on your way to celebrate your singleversary (thank you for the recommendation, I should celebrate myself more this way), but accidentally find yourself a hunky adventure tour guide on your stay in Hawaii.

First of all, you can't expect a 77 minutes audiobook to have everything perfected. And so will I not be pointing out how this book should be better because it was obvious that this is not going to be like any other full-fledged novel. In lieu, I'll tell you what about this audiobook that works.

If I have to describe the book in one word, I'll say it's very vibrant. Each character was given a unique voice by a different actor and I truly enjoyed them. It’s also nice to have a very brief musical interlude to differentiate the storyteller parts from the story being told. Though I know some people may not like having all these backgrounds sounds as this can be disconcerting and can result in the listener losing its concentration. Still, I personally think it helps to underline the scenes and settings.

Alternatively, instead of narrating the plot to you, this full-cast narration was more akin to a screenplay/dialogues than a standard audiobook. From where I stand, this part does the trick because you either feel like you were with them during the vacation or you're watching a movie by the end which is very cool. It also helps that Lauren Blakely created a well-developed storyline and characters — you'll take in the appropriate transitional statements or phrases designed that draw you deeper into the story.

The characters are also easily likable. Skyler was a fun character, strong-willed, and completely out of her element on an adventure trip to Hawaii. Meanwhile, Caleb was a studly man who had too much love for his water job. Together, they made their time witty and lively. I just wished the narrator would say their dialogues more naturally and expressively.

As a whole, you can tell I am very much impressed with the outcome. I was hoping this book would be prolonged as it has so much potential to be good. For what it is worth, this was a welcome diversion from reality and a joy to listen to.
]]> <![CDATA[The Blonde Identity (Blonde Identity, #1)]]> 63310912
It's the middle of the night in the middle of Paris and a woman just woke up with no memory.

She only knows three things for certain:

1. She has a splitting headache.

2. The hottest guy she has (probably) ever seen is standing over her, telling her to run.

And oh yeah...

3. People keep trying to kill her.

She doesn't know who. Or why. But when she sees footage of herself fighting off a dozen men there's only one explanation: obviously. . . she's a spy!

Except, according to Mr. Hot Guy, she's not. She's a spy's identical twin sister.

Too bad the only person who knows she's not the woman they're looking for is this very grouchy, very sexy, very secret agent who (reluctantly) agrees to help her disappear.

That's easier said than done when a criminal organization wants you dead and every intelligence service in the world wants you caught. Luckily, no one is looking for a pair of lovesick newlyweds on their honeymoon. And soon they're lying their way across Europe--dodging bullets and faking kisses as they race to unravel a deadly conspiracy and clear her sister's name.

But with every secret they uncover, the truth shifts, until she no longer knows who to trust: the twin she can't remember or the mysterious man she can't let herself forget...]]> 304 Ally Carter 006327664X aly 4
From the premise, you might expect this book to be intricate, packed with spy details and high-stakes action, but it is none of that. Instead, it is a cozy read with romance at its heart, shifting focus away from espionage to something far more intimate. Sure, there are chase scenes and danger and all the spy novel staples, but what makes it special is how it balances the excitement with humor and swoony romance in just the right mix.

Some writers get bogged down in excessive detail, but this book keeps things light and fun while still feeling substantial enough to be satisfying. It is exactly my kind of comfort read; thrilling when it needs to be, sexy when it wants to be, and always delivering that perfect hit of romantic escapism without ever taking itself too seriously. No heavy burdens, just pure enjoyment and love.

The other most significant reason into loving this book is definitely our heroine, Zoe/Alex/not Alex/lady. She is irresistibly charming, bubbling with upbeat energy, and naturally badass even when she is the opposite of her spy sister. I love how her thoughts spiral into chaos in every situation. That frantic, hilarious internal commentary is exactly what makes reading this so entertaining. She is witty, dramatic, reactive, and completely relatable in the most over-the-top way possible.

]]> 3.74 2023 The Blonde Identity (Blonde Identity, #1)
author: Ally Carter
name: aly
average rating: 3.74
book published: 2023
rating: 4
read at: 2025/06/20
date added: 2025/07/04
shelves:
review:
If I had to award books I have read, this one would take the prize for "The Most Delightful (Unexpected) Find." As someone who judge a book by its cover, I never usually bat an eye for this kind, but curiosity got the better of me after seeing a mutual reading it, and I have never been so glad to take a chance on a book.

From the premise, you might expect this book to be intricate, packed with spy details and high-stakes action, but it is none of that. Instead, it is a cozy read with romance at its heart, shifting focus away from espionage to something far more intimate. Sure, there are chase scenes and danger and all the spy novel staples, but what makes it special is how it balances the excitement with humor and swoony romance in just the right mix.

Some writers get bogged down in excessive detail, but this book keeps things light and fun while still feeling substantial enough to be satisfying. It is exactly my kind of comfort read; thrilling when it needs to be, sexy when it wants to be, and always delivering that perfect hit of romantic escapism without ever taking itself too seriously. No heavy burdens, just pure enjoyment and love.

The other most significant reason into loving this book is definitely our heroine, Zoe/Alex/not Alex/lady. She is irresistibly charming, bubbling with upbeat energy, and naturally badass even when she is the opposite of her spy sister. I love how her thoughts spiral into chaos in every situation. That frantic, hilarious internal commentary is exactly what makes reading this so entertaining. She is witty, dramatic, reactive, and completely relatable in the most over-the-top way possible.


]]> Strange Houses 218671839 A spiritual companion to Strange Pictures and a bestselling horror phenomenon in Japan —mysterious spaces, trap doors, windowless children's rooms . . . something is wrong with this house. Can you solve the "mystery" of its floor plan?

A writer fascinated by the macabre is approached by an acquaintance who is considering purchasing a second-hand house in Tokyo. With its bright and spacious interior, the home seems perfect. But looking closer, the building’s floor plan reveals a mysterious "dead space” hidden between the walls. Seeking a second opinion, the writer shares the floor plan with an architect friend only to discover more “strange spaces” dotted across the house.

What are these mysterious “strange spaces” and why do they exist—are they really there, or is there something off with the floor plan? Who is the home’s former resident who suddenly disappeared?

The freelance writer and his architect friend can’t resist the challenge of solving the riddle of these puzzling floor plans . . . and the terrifying plot behind it all.]]> 208 Uketsu 006343315X aly 3 Strange Pictures by this same author, I know I could not miss reading his next work. Strange Houses is a horror mystery comprised of four parts about strange architecture homes with bizarre floor plans, hidden rooms, and disconcerting voids. The chapters proceed as conversations amongst the narrator, an architect friend, and various others connected to each of these odd structures.

The first three parts involve different houses; each house is more unsettling than the prior and ends with the revelation of a wealthy family's hidden dark secret. What Strange Houses was exceptional at doing is maintaining a consistent sense of slow dread. I dwelled on the thought, its descriptions of unnatural spaces so vivid I was peeking at my own walls and my sister can testify the way I have been muttering curses as I read, specifically during the last pages of the act because I was thoroughly gobsmacked by the possible conclusions. Truth was revealed but the mystery of the actual culprit remains...

Although the premise is certainly thrilling in showing how Uketsu has masterfully written this genre by bridging horror with architectural narrative intrigue—the execution often strains plausibility as certain twists feel more overreached and shift in logic along the way. The story progressed in an overly convenient way, and I was disappointed when it turned into an occult-themed tale halfway through.

Early on, the characters jump to huge conclusions about the houses' secrets based on almost nothing, and somehow, their wild guesses turn out to be right every time. There are a million possibilities, but one glance at a floor plan got them immediately thought "yup, it's a murder house." It makes the whole mystery feel pointless because instead of figuring things out with them, I am just watching a script play out exactly as intended. Also, I think it is too far-fetched to speculate that a child would suddenly commit murder like it was a normal idea to come up with.

Comparatively, Uketsu’s earlier work, Strange Pictures wove its horrors through more nuanced character dynamics. Here, the focus on architecture comes at the expense of depth, reducing the cast to vehicles for exposition. With a more evocative style, the unsettling premise could have lingered in the mind like a true nightmare, rather than fading so quickly since this book decided to proceed with the conversational style.

Perhaps it is the expectation of his previous work but regardless, this book remains a boldly inventive read. The "sketch mystery" format feels fresh and immersive, and if you love speculative horror or unconventional narratives, it is still worth diving into (just don’t expect airtight logic). That said, even my frustrations would not stop me from continuing the hinted sequel. There is something undeniably compelling about Uketsu’s eerie storytelling that keeps me curious for more.]]> 3.69 2021 Strange Houses
author: Uketsu
name: aly
average rating: 3.69
book published: 2021
rating: 3
read at: 2025/06/18
date added: 2025/07/04
shelves:
review:
After reading Strange Pictures by this same author, I know I could not miss reading his next work. Strange Houses is a horror mystery comprised of four parts about strange architecture homes with bizarre floor plans, hidden rooms, and disconcerting voids. The chapters proceed as conversations amongst the narrator, an architect friend, and various others connected to each of these odd structures.

The first three parts involve different houses; each house is more unsettling than the prior and ends with the revelation of a wealthy family's hidden dark secret. What Strange Houses was exceptional at doing is maintaining a consistent sense of slow dread. I dwelled on the thought, its descriptions of unnatural spaces so vivid I was peeking at my own walls and my sister can testify the way I have been muttering curses as I read, specifically during the last pages of the act because I was thoroughly gobsmacked by the possible conclusions. Truth was revealed but the mystery of the actual culprit remains...

Although the premise is certainly thrilling in showing how Uketsu has masterfully written this genre by bridging horror with architectural narrative intrigue—the execution often strains plausibility as certain twists feel more overreached and shift in logic along the way. The story progressed in an overly convenient way, and I was disappointed when it turned into an occult-themed tale halfway through.

Early on, the characters jump to huge conclusions about the houses' secrets based on almost nothing, and somehow, their wild guesses turn out to be right every time. There are a million possibilities, but one glance at a floor plan got them immediately thought "yup, it's a murder house." It makes the whole mystery feel pointless because instead of figuring things out with them, I am just watching a script play out exactly as intended. Also, I think it is too far-fetched to speculate that a child would suddenly commit murder like it was a normal idea to come up with.

Comparatively, Uketsu’s earlier work, Strange Pictures wove its horrors through more nuanced character dynamics. Here, the focus on architecture comes at the expense of depth, reducing the cast to vehicles for exposition. With a more evocative style, the unsettling premise could have lingered in the mind like a true nightmare, rather than fading so quickly since this book decided to proceed with the conversational style.

Perhaps it is the expectation of his previous work but regardless, this book remains a boldly inventive read. The "sketch mystery" format feels fresh and immersive, and if you love speculative horror or unconventional narratives, it is still worth diving into (just don’t expect airtight logic). That said, even my frustrations would not stop me from continuing the hinted sequel. There is something undeniably compelling about Uketsu’s eerie storytelling that keeps me curious for more.
]]> McMullen Circle 58944055 168 Heather Newton 1646030761 aly 4
Fairly, I almost put the book away because starting a book about a married woman having an affair with a married man is not something beguiling to start with. My first thought was: I hate Sarah and I don't wanna continue reading them. Then again, McMullen Circle isn't just about Sarah — it's interwoven stories that are so close in time and space that explore the connected lives of families at a boarding school, and I happen to love each one of them.

Although the school community is remote and idyllic, a racial issue, the women's movement, and Vietnam War tensions remain as reflected in most all of the short stories. It was brilliantly scraped away by Newton to uncover simmering conflicts between the characters and the threat of social transformation.

All the characters in this book are also simply revolutionary. Newton vividly brings each individual to life, evoking empathy for their diverse circumstances. Her skillful use of minor clues to support a broader narrative is delightful. I believe Newton is just a gifted writer given how compelling the story is with her integrated characters. Newton writes in a way that brief glimpses into the lives of the characters in one narrative, flow naturally into rich and all-encompassing experiences in another. Similar to how I initially disliked Sarah but later came to appreciate her after getting absorbed into someone else's perspective.

For the most part, Newton did a wonderful job in capturing her reverence for these natural wonders. It is my first encounter with Newton's work (mostly because the cover lure me), but I surely know this would not be my last. It too, feels like a crime to miss such epigrammatic and majestic works of an author, which I know better now. So, if you want to experience a little bit of magical element, you may as well start McMullen Circle right this instant.]]> 4.44 2022 McMullen Circle
author: Heather Newton
name: aly
average rating: 4.44
book published: 2022
rating: 4
read at: 2023/01/03
date added: 2025/07/03
shelves:
review:
Going quite strong with my first read of 2023 with these beautiful pieces that took place at the fictional McMullen Boarding School in the fictional town of Tonola Falls, Georgia.

Fairly, I almost put the book away because starting a book about a married woman having an affair with a married man is not something beguiling to start with. My first thought was: I hate Sarah and I don't wanna continue reading them. Then again, McMullen Circle isn't just about Sarah — it's interwoven stories that are so close in time and space that explore the connected lives of families at a boarding school, and I happen to love each one of them.

Although the school community is remote and idyllic, a racial issue, the women's movement, and Vietnam War tensions remain as reflected in most all of the short stories. It was brilliantly scraped away by Newton to uncover simmering conflicts between the characters and the threat of social transformation.

All the characters in this book are also simply revolutionary. Newton vividly brings each individual to life, evoking empathy for their diverse circumstances. Her skillful use of minor clues to support a broader narrative is delightful. I believe Newton is just a gifted writer given how compelling the story is with her integrated characters. Newton writes in a way that brief glimpses into the lives of the characters in one narrative, flow naturally into rich and all-encompassing experiences in another. Similar to how I initially disliked Sarah but later came to appreciate her after getting absorbed into someone else's perspective.

For the most part, Newton did a wonderful job in capturing her reverence for these natural wonders. It is my first encounter with Newton's work (mostly because the cover lure me), but I surely know this would not be my last. It too, feels like a crime to miss such epigrammatic and majestic works of an author, which I know better now. So, if you want to experience a little bit of magical element, you may as well start McMullen Circle right this instant.
]]> The Family Recipe 214208247 From the author of the Good Morning America Book Club Pick The Fortunes of Jaded Women, a stunning family dramedy about estranged siblings competing to inherit their father’s Vietnamese sandwich franchise and unravel family mysteries.

Duc Tran, the eccentric founder of the Vietnamese sandwich chain Duc’s Sandwiches, has decided to retire. No one has heard from his wife, Evelyn, in two decades. She abandoned the family without a trace, and clearly doesn’t want anything to do with Duc, the business, or their kids. But the money has to go to someone. With the help of the shady family lawyer, Duc informs his five estranged adult children that to receive their inheritance, his four daughters must revitalize run-down shops in old-school Little Saigon locations across America: Houston, San Jose, New Orleans, and Philadelphia—within a year. But if the first-born (and only) son, Jude, gets married first, everything will go to him.

Each daughter is stuck in a new city, battling gentrification, declining ethnic enclaves, and messy love lives, while struggling to modernize their father’s American dream. Jude wonders if he wants to marry for love or for money—or neither. As Duc’s children scramble to win their inheritance, they begin to learn the real intention behind the inheritance scheme—and the secret their mother kept tucked away in the old fishing tackle box, all along.

The Family Recipe is about rediscovering one’s roots, different types of fatherly love, legacy, and finding a place in a divided country where the only commonality among your neighbors is the universal love of sandwiches.]]> 317 Carolyn Huynh 1668033062 aly 0 to-read 3.70 2025 The Family Recipe
author: Carolyn Huynh
name: aly
average rating: 3.70
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/07/02
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> Say Yes 50111551
But this morning?

He looks a hell of a lot like the groom.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Originally offered as a short story in the Mixtape Anthology alongside 11 other short stories, Say Yes is now available for your own reading pleasure FOR FREE simply for being a newsletter subscriber!]]> 59 Elle Kennedy aly 3
Say Yes is a story of one commitmentphobic with a man she had mindblowing sex with on the day before her best friend's wedding... Only to be surprised when she found out that the man she's sleeping with was the groom. The plot was supposed to be predictable but I still did not see it coming; which I guess it was just me pinning one's hope on the drama lol.

The book ends adorably though as I definitely did not foresee Elle Kennedy to pull that epilogue. For a short story, this was a fun and quick read.]]> 3.58 2019 Say Yes
author: Elle Kennedy
name: aly
average rating: 3.58
book published: 2019
rating: 3
read at: 2021/12/06
date added: 2025/07/01
shelves:
review:
I was supposed to be sleeping but ended up having this one off my list.

Say Yes is a story of one commitmentphobic with a man she had mindblowing sex with on the day before her best friend's wedding... Only to be surprised when she found out that the man she's sleeping with was the groom. The plot was supposed to be predictable but I still did not see it coming; which I guess it was just me pinning one's hope on the drama lol.

The book ends adorably though as I definitely did not foresee Elle Kennedy to pull that epilogue. For a short story, this was a fun and quick read.
]]> <![CDATA[The Curious Kitten at the Chibineko Kitchen (Meals to Remember at the Chibineko Kitchen, #1)]]> 212807260 Your table awaits at the Chibineko Kitchen, where a soul-nourishing meal in the company of the resident kitten will transport you back in time to reunite with departed loved ones—for fans of Before the Coffee Gets Cold and The Midnight Library.

In a remote seaside town outside of Tokyo, Kotoko makes her way along a seashell path, lured by whispers of an enigmatic restaurant whose kagezen, or traditional meals offered in remembrance of loved ones, promise a reunion with the departed. When a gust of wind lifts off her hat, she sees running after it a young man who looks like her recently deceased brother. But it’s not her brother; it’s Kai, the restaurant’s young chef, who returns her hat and brings her to the tiny establishment, where he introduces her to Chibi, the resident kitten, and serves her steaming bowls of simmered fish, rice, and miso soup—the exact meal her brother used to cook for her. As she takes her first delicious bite, the gulls outside fall silent, the air grows hazy, and Kotoko begins a magical journey of last chances and new beginnings.]]> 192 Yuta Takahashi 0143138618 aly 4
Some may find the story a bit sentimental, and the way it's told might leave you pondering whether it leans into magical realism or if it's more grounded. Initially, I leaned toward the former interpretation, which left me feeling a bit unsatisfied, as it seemed there were many aspects of Chibineko Kitchen that weren't fully explored. I found myself wondering about the kitten’s role—whether it has a deeper connection to the experiences of allowing people to reunite with the dead or simply isn't. The story hints at much but doesn't provide enough depth to satisfy those lingering questions.

However, after more contemplation, the connection between smell, taste and memory feels very direct. There are so many experiences where a taste or smell from the past brings up forgotten memories, and the idea of "remembrance meal" bringing back the memories of a loved one feels very real. Therefore, you can interpret the story literally, with the dead actually returning, or you can take a more grounded view, seeing the "remembrance meal" as just a catalyst for the person to recall their own memories.

Alas, whether it's an illusion or a daydream does not really matter. What matters is the deep longing to reunite with a loved one and share the words left unsaid. As long as the remembrance meal remains warm — it's about the ones left behind finding a way to move forward and take the next step in their lives — which, in the end, may be the true purpose of the book.

Overall, this book has such a gentle writing that will tug at your heartstring with its exploration on the power of memory and the healing process through its unique concept of "remembrance meals." Although the stories may leave certain questions unresolved, the central theme of finding hope and closure amidst loss is profoundly impactful. I will definitely look forward to the next installment and delighted to see what will be in store.]]> 4.02 2020 The Curious Kitten at the Chibineko Kitchen (Meals to Remember at the Chibineko Kitchen, #1)
author: Yuta Takahashi
name: aly
average rating: 4.02
book published: 2020
rating: 4
read at: 2025/02/06
date added: 2025/06/30
shelves:
review:
This book is a touching collection of short stories by Yuta Takahashi, centered around a cafe by the sea where "remembrance meals" allows people to meet with their deceased loved ones. It is a unique concept that triggers memories, especially tied to food-related experiences, adding to a magical and heartfelt element. While the stories are sad and difficult due to the emotional weight of death prompting for tears to be shed, the way the characters find a glimmer of hope to move forward brings warmth and kindness.

Some may find the story a bit sentimental, and the way it's told might leave you pondering whether it leans into magical realism or if it's more grounded. Initially, I leaned toward the former interpretation, which left me feeling a bit unsatisfied, as it seemed there were many aspects of Chibineko Kitchen that weren't fully explored. I found myself wondering about the kitten’s role—whether it has a deeper connection to the experiences of allowing people to reunite with the dead or simply isn't. The story hints at much but doesn't provide enough depth to satisfy those lingering questions.

However, after more contemplation, the connection between smell, taste and memory feels very direct. There are so many experiences where a taste or smell from the past brings up forgotten memories, and the idea of "remembrance meal" bringing back the memories of a loved one feels very real. Therefore, you can interpret the story literally, with the dead actually returning, or you can take a more grounded view, seeing the "remembrance meal" as just a catalyst for the person to recall their own memories.

Alas, whether it's an illusion or a daydream does not really matter. What matters is the deep longing to reunite with a loved one and share the words left unsaid. As long as the remembrance meal remains warm — it's about the ones left behind finding a way to move forward and take the next step in their lives — which, in the end, may be the true purpose of the book.

Overall, this book has such a gentle writing that will tug at your heartstring with its exploration on the power of memory and the healing process through its unique concept of "remembrance meals." Although the stories may leave certain questions unresolved, the central theme of finding hope and closure amidst loss is profoundly impactful. I will definitely look forward to the next installment and delighted to see what will be in store.
]]> Terrace Story 63945340 From the author of the acclaimed novel Temporary, an intimate exploration of time, a fable about love, an epic daydream for a broken-hearted world

Annie, Edward, and their young daughter, Rose, live in a cramped apartment. One night, without warning, they find a beautiful terrace hidden in their closet. It wasn't there before, and it seems to only appear when their friend Stephanie visits. A city dweller's dream come true! But every extra bit of space has a hidden cost, and the terrace sets off a seismic chain of events, forever changing the shape of their tiny home, and the shape of the world.

Terrace Story follows the characters who suffer these repercussions and reverberations: the little family of three, their future now deeply uncertain, and those who orbit their fragile universe. The distance and love between these characters expands limitlessly, across generations. How far can the mind travel when it's looking for something that is gone? Where do we put our loneliness, longing, and desire? What do we do with the emotions that seem to stretch beyond the body, beyond the boundaries of life and death?

Based on the National Magazine Award-winning story, Hilary Leichter's profound second novel asks how we nurture love when death looms over every moment. From one of our most innovative and daring writers, Terrace Story is an astounding meditation on loss, a reverie about extinction, and a map for where to go next.]]> 208 Hilary Leichter 0063265818 aly 4
I could understand if this book is not written for everyone to enjoy, but in Leichter's way of conveying the theme of love, memory, time and space - I'd say this is quite exciting. Despite its flaws, I think this is a wonderful read.

Further RTC.]]> 3.55 2023 Terrace Story
author: Hilary Leichter
name: aly
average rating: 3.55
book published: 2023
rating: 4
read at: 2024/02/16
date added: 2025/06/30
shelves:
review:
This feels bizarre because at one point, I am enjoying the book, then also started to get confused before everything started to connect at the end like the threads of a tapestry weaving together.

I could understand if this book is not written for everyone to enjoy, but in Leichter's way of conveying the theme of love, memory, time and space - I'd say this is quite exciting. Despite its flaws, I think this is a wonderful read.

Further RTC.
]]> <![CDATA[Love & Gelato (Love & Gelato, #1)]]> 25756328 “I made the wrong choice.”

Lina is spending the summer in Tuscany, but she isn’t in the mood for Italy’s famous sunshine and fairy-tale landscape. She’s only there because it was her mother’s dying wish that she get to know her father. But what kind of father isn’t around for sixteen years? All Lina wants to do is go back home.

But then she is given a journal that her mom had kept when she lived in Italy. Suddenly Lina’s uncovering a magical world of secret romances, art, and hidden bakeries. A world that inspires her, along with the ever-so-charming Ren, to follow in her mother’s footsteps and unearth a secret that has been kept for far too long. It’s a secret that will change everything she knew about her mother, her father—and even herself.

People come to Italy for love and gelato, someone tells her, but sometimes they discover much more.]]> 386 Jenna Evans Welch 1481432540 aly 2 (This review will contain major spoiler)

"When we're together, we make one whole Italian"


I hate to be the outliers but I think there were just too many good reviews about this book that I can't help to be disappointed with the turn of events. Bear in mind that I do take note that this is YA, which having inchoate characters is probably expected but there will always be a silver lining.

This book starts well and it was so easy to read.
Let me just list a few things I enjoy at the beginning:

1. Lina meets her "potential classmate"
This part was so adorable because everyone was so welcoming and it was heartwarming to see. They were just so excited to have a new face joining them that their antics humour me; especially Marcus and his "Lina is my biology partner"

2. Howard and "intimidating" Ren
I just find these exchanges to be so funny due to the misunderstanding Howard first had towards Ren; resulting in Ren to be unyielding and keeps calling Howard "Sir" cause boy is trying hard not to piss in his pants. Love this dynamic between the two!

3. Italy & Gelato
I have never been to Florence but the place sounds heavenly. It makes me wants to explore all the places Lina and Ren went to. Not to say, the gelato seems so delectable. It didn't help that we're on a lockdown and I can't find myself some gelato to fulfil the craving. Although I believe it would still not be as good as the one Lina tried. Can someone just please get me a stracciatella?

But then, as the story goes, I find some things infuriating.

1. Why can't you finish the journal first, Lina?
First of all, I don't understand how she can feel "drowsy" when she's at a suspenseful part of the journal. You're pages away. But fine, I understand. Howard may take two hours to finish the journal but not all of us a Howard. Sometimes we are a Lina who may take a week to finish one journal and I am totally fine with that. What's not is:

Why would she go as far as asking Ren to bring her to FAAF just so she could find out who "X" is?

"Because my mom had this whole life I don't know about, and I want to know what was so great about X that she couldn't get over him and had to break Howard's heart"


Lina, all you have to do is finish the damn journal and see where you can go from there. Go find X or talk to Howard but no! I have to make things complicated. Ren even said so! But Lina thinks:

"Ren, please! I think it's what my mom wanted me to do. And I can't face Howard like this. I can't.


Lina... you don't even know what happened to your mom in the past, what makes you think you know what your mom wants. You've proved to do nothing but have all these false assumptions after another.

2. I find some things half-baked (read: mainly Lina)
This part doesn't bother me but why go as far as having to buy a new phone for Lina just so she can start contacting her other friends in Italy. What she needs is i) her old phone ii) a new sim card. Easy peasy lemon squeezy. Why does it the hard way? (p/s: but do tell me if there are just some things I am not aware of how the connection works in Italy).

Then, I find it absurd how she immediately assumed that "X" is Howard the first time she reads the journal. Because while Lina thinks that way, I catch that this "X" was supposed to be a different person, or you know: give him the benefit of the doubt instead of jumping to conclusions.

And later as she reads the journal (which she has not yet finished), she wholeheartedly believes her theory (which was not right) and went from "I wanna leave Italy, Howard is nice but I don't wanna talk to him" to "Pity him, was it too much to ask for my mom to love him"

Me reading this part:

I'm sorry if I was being petty over trivial things but even these parts still annoyed me to no end.

3. "I was so in love, it hurts" Are you really in love??
I am not going to start the "they're not really in love" course like this is some Romeo and Juliet crap. But I stand with what I say.

Firstly, to Ren: How do you have a crush on someone for two years and finally succeed to be their boyfriend to immediately break things off just because you met someone new? How do you love Lina so fast (someone you meet five days ago) than the girl you have a crush on for two damn years?

Cut me all the "you didn't choose who to love, your heart did" because then it will make me believe that Ren feelings for Mimi were superficial. I understand if he feels more connected towards Lina but Ren made it so easy. Attracted to a new girl, break things off with my current girlfriend. I can't even... This would probably have to do with the fact that I've been seeing people who love this book couldn't stop gushing about Ren but I'd say he is good for nothing.

And To Lina: If you're so in love with Ren, "it hurts". Tell me three things you love about him will ya? I wanted to feel connected with the romance between the two but it was hard when
i) There was no indication of what Lina feels or thinks about Ren until the very last part. She is attracted to Thomas for the first half of the book.
ii) There was no developing feelings process during their friendship either. Not until she suddenly kissed Ren and realized, "Oh damn, I love him."

I just think she's confusing her feelings with "love" because Ren was there for her from the start and she doesn't have to fake herself as she did with everyone else. She doesn't love Ren, she just loves how his presence brings comfort and was in a vulnerable moment when feeling so. Even during the time they kissed because girl was just crying and decided "I'm gonna kiss him even tho I know he has a girlfriend". So no, you can't blame me if I refused to believe they are in love. At least not at the same time they think they are in love.

4. Survival of the fittest or not, you don't take other people's partners. Not in this century, woman.
Do I blame Mimi if she dislikes Lina? No. No, I don't because I would feel the same. I am in a relationship and I get to know my boyfriend is spending his time with the new girl in town, where he even refused to pick up my call because he is with her. To add salt to wound, he even lied to me about it? How does that suppose to make me feel? Blessed?

Even when Ren has broken up with Mimi that night at the club, you don't know that do you, Lina?
So why, after things drifted apart because Lina accidentally kissed Ren, she decided she needs to get "The Dress" so things will work. Oh wait, don't get it wrong. I don't want to be a snatcher though, just to make sure Ren will talk to me again.

Okay, but do you need "The Dress"?
It doesn't help when Howard said:
"You look beautiful. I don't care what Ren's girlfriend looks like. She doesn't stand a chance"


Sir, you don't get to say...
I don't know. I just don't like this whole ordeal with someone else's boyfriend. At least, if men ain't sh*t we women respected each other, don't we?

And trust me, I am the most absent-minded person when I read contemporary romance because I would usually just enjoy the book and be done with it. I am NEVER the critical person or nitpicking as I did with this book — which means, this book is just not that good as everyone made it to be.

If you enjoy this, I respected the community but it ain't me. I find the whole conflict of Hadley, Howard and Matteo to be heartbreaking but it can also be avoided if they do this thing called: communication .

Overall, great start, weak finish. I could handle some dreadful plot but I can't stand dreadful characters. The only likeable character in this book is Howard and maybe Sonia. The rest? Ugh, spare me.

]]> 4.03 2016 Love & Gelato (Love & Gelato, #1)
author: Jenna Evans Welch
name: aly
average rating: 4.03
book published: 2016
rating: 2
read at: 2021/06/11
date added: 2025/06/30
shelves:
review:
(This review will contain major spoiler)

"When we're together, we make one whole Italian"


I hate to be the outliers but I think there were just too many good reviews about this book that I can't help to be disappointed with the turn of events. Bear in mind that I do take note that this is YA, which having inchoate characters is probably expected but there will always be a silver lining.

This book starts well and it was so easy to read.
Let me just list a few things I enjoy at the beginning:

1. Lina meets her "potential classmate"
This part was so adorable because everyone was so welcoming and it was heartwarming to see. They were just so excited to have a new face joining them that their antics humour me; especially Marcus and his "Lina is my biology partner"

2. Howard and "intimidating" Ren
I just find these exchanges to be so funny due to the misunderstanding Howard first had towards Ren; resulting in Ren to be unyielding and keeps calling Howard "Sir" cause boy is trying hard not to piss in his pants. Love this dynamic between the two!

3. Italy & Gelato
I have never been to Florence but the place sounds heavenly. It makes me wants to explore all the places Lina and Ren went to. Not to say, the gelato seems so delectable. It didn't help that we're on a lockdown and I can't find myself some gelato to fulfil the craving. Although I believe it would still not be as good as the one Lina tried. Can someone just please get me a stracciatella?

But then, as the story goes, I find some things infuriating.

1. Why can't you finish the journal first, Lina?
First of all, I don't understand how she can feel "drowsy" when she's at a suspenseful part of the journal. You're pages away. But fine, I understand. Howard may take two hours to finish the journal but not all of us a Howard. Sometimes we are a Lina who may take a week to finish one journal and I am totally fine with that. What's not is:

Why would she go as far as asking Ren to bring her to FAAF just so she could find out who "X" is?

"Because my mom had this whole life I don't know about, and I want to know what was so great about X that she couldn't get over him and had to break Howard's heart"


Lina, all you have to do is finish the damn journal and see where you can go from there. Go find X or talk to Howard but no! I have to make things complicated. Ren even said so! But Lina thinks:

"Ren, please! I think it's what my mom wanted me to do. And I can't face Howard like this. I can't.


Lina... you don't even know what happened to your mom in the past, what makes you think you know what your mom wants. You've proved to do nothing but have all these false assumptions after another.

2. I find some things half-baked (read: mainly Lina)
This part doesn't bother me but why go as far as having to buy a new phone for Lina just so she can start contacting her other friends in Italy. What she needs is i) her old phone ii) a new sim card. Easy peasy lemon squeezy. Why does it the hard way? (p/s: but do tell me if there are just some things I am not aware of how the connection works in Italy).

Then, I find it absurd how she immediately assumed that "X" is Howard the first time she reads the journal. Because while Lina thinks that way, I catch that this "X" was supposed to be a different person, or you know: give him the benefit of the doubt instead of jumping to conclusions.

And later as she reads the journal (which she has not yet finished), she wholeheartedly believes her theory (which was not right) and went from "I wanna leave Italy, Howard is nice but I don't wanna talk to him" to "Pity him, was it too much to ask for my mom to love him"

Me reading this part:

I'm sorry if I was being petty over trivial things but even these parts still annoyed me to no end.

3. "I was so in love, it hurts" Are you really in love??
I am not going to start the "they're not really in love" course like this is some Romeo and Juliet crap. But I stand with what I say.

Firstly, to Ren: How do you have a crush on someone for two years and finally succeed to be their boyfriend to immediately break things off just because you met someone new? How do you love Lina so fast (someone you meet five days ago) than the girl you have a crush on for two damn years?

Cut me all the "you didn't choose who to love, your heart did" because then it will make me believe that Ren feelings for Mimi were superficial. I understand if he feels more connected towards Lina but Ren made it so easy. Attracted to a new girl, break things off with my current girlfriend. I can't even... This would probably have to do with the fact that I've been seeing people who love this book couldn't stop gushing about Ren but I'd say he is good for nothing.

And To Lina: If you're so in love with Ren, "it hurts". Tell me three things you love about him will ya? I wanted to feel connected with the romance between the two but it was hard when
i) There was no indication of what Lina feels or thinks about Ren until the very last part. She is attracted to Thomas for the first half of the book.
ii) There was no developing feelings process during their friendship either. Not until she suddenly kissed Ren and realized, "Oh damn, I love him."

I just think she's confusing her feelings with "love" because Ren was there for her from the start and she doesn't have to fake herself as she did with everyone else. She doesn't love Ren, she just loves how his presence brings comfort and was in a vulnerable moment when feeling so. Even during the time they kissed because girl was just crying and decided "I'm gonna kiss him even tho I know he has a girlfriend". So no, you can't blame me if I refused to believe they are in love. At least not at the same time they think they are in love.

4. Survival of the fittest or not, you don't take other people's partners. Not in this century, woman.
Do I blame Mimi if she dislikes Lina? No. No, I don't because I would feel the same. I am in a relationship and I get to know my boyfriend is spending his time with the new girl in town, where he even refused to pick up my call because he is with her. To add salt to wound, he even lied to me about it? How does that suppose to make me feel? Blessed?

Even when Ren has broken up with Mimi that night at the club, you don't know that do you, Lina?
So why, after things drifted apart because Lina accidentally kissed Ren, she decided she needs to get "The Dress" so things will work. Oh wait, don't get it wrong. I don't want to be a snatcher though, just to make sure Ren will talk to me again.

Okay, but do you need "The Dress"?
It doesn't help when Howard said:
"You look beautiful. I don't care what Ren's girlfriend looks like. She doesn't stand a chance"


Sir, you don't get to say...
I don't know. I just don't like this whole ordeal with someone else's boyfriend. At least, if men ain't sh*t we women respected each other, don't we?

And trust me, I am the most absent-minded person when I read contemporary romance because I would usually just enjoy the book and be done with it. I am NEVER the critical person or nitpicking as I did with this book — which means, this book is just not that good as everyone made it to be.

If you enjoy this, I respected the community but it ain't me. I find the whole conflict of Hadley, Howard and Matteo to be heartbreaking but it can also be avoided if they do this thing called: communication .

Overall, great start, weak finish. I could handle some dreadful plot but I can't stand dreadful characters. The only likeable character in this book is Howard and maybe Sonia. The rest? Ugh, spare me.


]]> <![CDATA[Breakaway Goal (Sin Bin Stories, #3)]]> 222214465 My brother’s best friend has no idea how I really feel about him. So, I pick a bold way to make it asking him to take my V card.

Rhys To most people, he’s the bad boy of college hockey, thanks to his rough play on the ice, broody demeanor, and the tattoos that cover his rippling physique. To me, though, he’s the guy who sends me playlists and makes me laugh when I’m in a bad mood. He’s also the guy I’ve been in love with for most of my life—but to him, I’m just his best friend’s dorky sister.

An introverted art student deciding to finally come out of my shell this year. I’m determined to make up for the time I’ve lost as a wallflower and catch up on all the experiences I’ve missed out on—including in the bedroom.

Rhys is helping me become more confident; teaching me to finally take risks to get what I want.

So, I put his advice into practice in a way he never asking him to be my first.

Now my brother’s best friend is showing me everything I’ve been missing out on.

I promise myself that I’ll keep my heart in check. That I won’t let myself get used to us being more than friends.

But when it comes to love, maybe some promises are meant to be broken.

Breakaway Goal is a full-length college hockey romance novel with lots of steam, no cheating, and a guaranteed HEA ending!

Tropesbrother's best friendfriends to loversmutual yearninganxiety repno 3rd act breakupdual POV]]> 294 Lyssa Lemire aly 1
First of all, this book is an absolute snoozefest and does not have all the right account of what I considered a good brother's best friend trope. It’s supposed to be scandalous, filled with tension, and steeped in the thrill of forbidden love, but there’s absolutely nothing at stake here — the romance unfolds far too easily, no brother disapproval, no risk taking.

There’s no hint of the MMC wrestling with his feelings, no struggle with the idea that his best friend’s sister should be off-limits, and no yearning that tugs at your heartstrings. The brother himself was also insignificant throughout the whole book, that you kind of forgot this was sell as brother's best friend book. It’s as bland as it gets.

To make matters worse, the author lacks the skill to craft an engaging narrative that truly captivates readers. Given that this is the later book in the series, I expected some growth in the author’s writing, but unfortunately, there was none. The characters feel shallow, and the story lacks depth, giving the impression that it was rushed out for a quick cash grab rather than a well-thought-out continuation of the series.

If the author took time to properly build both the characters and their story, I bet this book will be lovely. Rhys sounds like he could be in the list of those swoon worthy MMC, but tough luck.

Anyways, lesson learned.]]> 3.66 Breakaway Goal (Sin Bin Stories, #3)
author: Lyssa Lemire
name: aly
average rating: 3.66
book published:
rating: 1
read at: 2025/01/16
date added: 2025/06/25
shelves:
review:
TikTok really has its way of sharing excerpts that will pique your interest to start a book only for it to be an absolute trash. To be fair, I never took TikTok recommendation seriously but I was so desperate for a good brother's best friend trope that I am accommodating to the idea that maybe, all these TikTok videos are good as it made to be.

First of all, this book is an absolute snoozefest and does not have all the right account of what I considered a good brother's best friend trope. It’s supposed to be scandalous, filled with tension, and steeped in the thrill of forbidden love, but there’s absolutely nothing at stake here — the romance unfolds far too easily, no brother disapproval, no risk taking.

There’s no hint of the MMC wrestling with his feelings, no struggle with the idea that his best friend’s sister should be off-limits, and no yearning that tugs at your heartstrings. The brother himself was also insignificant throughout the whole book, that you kind of forgot this was sell as brother's best friend book. It’s as bland as it gets.

To make matters worse, the author lacks the skill to craft an engaging narrative that truly captivates readers. Given that this is the later book in the series, I expected some growth in the author’s writing, but unfortunately, there was none. The characters feel shallow, and the story lacks depth, giving the impression that it was rushed out for a quick cash grab rather than a well-thought-out continuation of the series.

If the author took time to properly build both the characters and their story, I bet this book will be lovely. Rhys sounds like he could be in the list of those swoon worthy MMC, but tough luck.

Anyways, lesson learned.
]]> Butterfly Yellow 41453635
Six years later, Hằng has made the brutal journey from Việt Nam and is now in Texas as a refugee. She doesn’t know how she will find the little brother who was taken from her until she meets LeeRoy, a city boy with big rodeo dreams, who decides to help her.

Hằng is overjoyed when she reunites with Linh. But when she realizes he doesn’t remember her, their family, or Việt Nam, her heart is crushed. Though the distance between them feels greater than ever, Hằng has come so far that she will do anything to bridge the gap.]]> 320 Thanhhà Lại 0062229230 aly 4
Frankly speaking, I pretty much expected this book to bore me, but it was such a surprise when you just come to enjoy a book more than you expected to. Butterfly Yellow has a powerful emotional impact that you might not anticipate at first, but it makes me tear up all the same.

I personally love our main duo in this book. Hằng and LeeRoy might seem like an unlikely pair, with one of them with his cowboy fascination while the other is dead set on a mission Vietnamese refugee — but their dynamic works with the sweet bond that's filled with many comical moments. I have to say having LeeRoy in the picture makes the book more vibrant and what made it delightful .

The prescience of the Vietnamese language is also another remarkable thing to uncover in this book — the Vietnamese's monosyllabic nature and Hằng's fascination to learn English make this a unique experience equipped with sentence trees. Although Hằng can steadily understand English, she soon discovered that she still requires her Vietnamese magnification to reconfigure her new surroundings and begins using phonetic Vietnamese sounds to form her English phrases-words. If you have much love for linguistics (and as a linguistic minor myself) - this book is abiding with the big picture it brings forth.

Foremost, I particularly value the short-named chapters, making these leaped-off pages read with their beautiful prose and steady pacing. Butterfly Yellow is a lovely, lyrical tale of the people you hold dear and the fortitude it takes to build a life. Simply hopeful and captivating!]]> 3.84 2019 Butterfly Yellow
author: Thanhhà Lại
name: aly
average rating: 3.84
book published: 2019
rating: 4
read at: 2022/07/25
date added: 2025/06/24
shelves:
review:
Butterfly Yellow is a heartbreaking tale of perseverance, love, and survival — set in the 1981s, in the final days of the Vietnam War where Hằng is on her quest in finding her missing brother who was taken to America at the age of five as part of Operation Babylift. Along the way, she encounters LeeRoy, an aspiring cowboy who grudgingly drives her to the Texas town where her brother has been residing.

Frankly speaking, I pretty much expected this book to bore me, but it was such a surprise when you just come to enjoy a book more than you expected to. Butterfly Yellow has a powerful emotional impact that you might not anticipate at first, but it makes me tear up all the same.

I personally love our main duo in this book. Hằng and LeeRoy might seem like an unlikely pair, with one of them with his cowboy fascination while the other is dead set on a mission Vietnamese refugee — but their dynamic works with the sweet bond that's filled with many comical moments. I have to say having LeeRoy in the picture makes the book more vibrant and what made it delightful .

The prescience of the Vietnamese language is also another remarkable thing to uncover in this book — the Vietnamese's monosyllabic nature and Hằng's fascination to learn English make this a unique experience equipped with sentence trees. Although Hằng can steadily understand English, she soon discovered that she still requires her Vietnamese magnification to reconfigure her new surroundings and begins using phonetic Vietnamese sounds to form her English phrases-words. If you have much love for linguistics (and as a linguistic minor myself) - this book is abiding with the big picture it brings forth.

Foremost, I particularly value the short-named chapters, making these leaped-off pages read with their beautiful prose and steady pacing. Butterfly Yellow is a lovely, lyrical tale of the people you hold dear and the fortitude it takes to build a life. Simply hopeful and captivating!
]]> Darling 51199185 A teen girl finds herself lost on a dangerous adventure in this YA thriller by the acclaimed author of The Wicker King and The Weight of the Stars—reimagining Peter Pan for today’s world.

On Wendy Darling’s first night in Chicago, a boy called Peter appears at her window. He’s dizzying, captivating, beautiful—so she agrees to join him for a night on the town.

Wendy thinks they’re heading to a party, but instead they’re soon running in the city’s underground. She makes friends—a punk girl named Tinkerbelle and the lost boys Peter watches over. And she makes enemies—the terrifying Detective Hook, and maybe Peter himself, as his sinister secrets start coming to light. Can Wendy find the courage to survive this night—and make sure everyone else does, too?

Acclaimed author K. Ancrum has re-envisioned Peter Pan with a central twist that will send all your previous memories of J. M. Barrie’s classic permanently off to Neverland.

An Imprint Book]]> 288 K. Ancrum aly 2
Darling by K. Anchrum is a modern-day Peter Pan retelling with expedient themes, thrills, and a delightfully varied ensemble of reimagined characters. And one renowned thing about me is that I am a big fan of Peterpan... movie; which probably the one mistake I made to compare this book to while reading them. Because Darling is more of an accurate rendition of Peterpan by JM Barrie – for that is still cool because I love how twisted, relatable and less children-friendly the classic tale was.

Unfortunately, this less than 300 pages book took me too long to finish because I couldn't find myself to come by anything entertaining, and that might have to do with the author's style of writing that is not up to my preferences. It's elaborative but at the same time pointless. The rise to the plot was abrupt, and one scene would take up too many words for it to progress further, my attention span literally AWOL. The ending was lacklustre, and the twist was tedious. My friends who have read this seem to enjoy and love it, so I am unsure if this is a me problem, but frankly speaking: this book bored the hell out of me.

Having said that, what I find astonishing instead was how perfect the embodiment of the Peterpan characters was written (mind you, I still couldn't care less about them though). Ancrum adds canon bits from the original like Wendy's sewing skill, Tinkerbell's jealousy, the Lost Boys, the Mermaid Lagoon, even as far as the scraps between Captain Hook and the Crocodile. What got wraps my mind around the most was Peter's character which was not entirely positive — just like the Peter in Barrie's book who he is dangerous, manipulative and not the hero Disney made out to be. Also, kudos to Anchrum for the massive diversity in the characters representing racial and queer identities... and that's basically it.

This book has the potential to be great. Every occurrence that propels the plot ahead has an eloquent to amplify a few thought-provoking messages; on the vulnerability of youth which hit close to home considering the transition to adulting life that I'll be experiencing. It's dark, mysterious and uncomfortable at times; still, I don't know what went wrong. I am devastated because this is one of my anticipated releases, but also come to be one of the biggest disappointments I've read this year.]]> 3.62 2021 Darling
author: K. Ancrum
name: aly
average rating: 3.62
book published: 2021
rating: 2
read at: 2021/09/23
date added: 2025/06/24
shelves:
review:
Almost DNF at 56%, and I probably lay it on thick with this statement, but I've never felt so regretful for purchasing a book as I am with this one. I spent too much for a book I ended up not liking [internal breakdown].

Darling by K. Anchrum is a modern-day Peter Pan retelling with expedient themes, thrills, and a delightfully varied ensemble of reimagined characters. And one renowned thing about me is that I am a big fan of Peterpan... movie; which probably the one mistake I made to compare this book to while reading them. Because Darling is more of an accurate rendition of Peterpan by JM Barrie – for that is still cool because I love how twisted, relatable and less children-friendly the classic tale was.

Unfortunately, this less than 300 pages book took me too long to finish because I couldn't find myself to come by anything entertaining, and that might have to do with the author's style of writing that is not up to my preferences. It's elaborative but at the same time pointless. The rise to the plot was abrupt, and one scene would take up too many words for it to progress further, my attention span literally AWOL. The ending was lacklustre, and the twist was tedious. My friends who have read this seem to enjoy and love it, so I am unsure if this is a me problem, but frankly speaking: this book bored the hell out of me.

Having said that, what I find astonishing instead was how perfect the embodiment of the Peterpan characters was written (mind you, I still couldn't care less about them though). Ancrum adds canon bits from the original like Wendy's sewing skill, Tinkerbell's jealousy, the Lost Boys, the Mermaid Lagoon, even as far as the scraps between Captain Hook and the Crocodile. What got wraps my mind around the most was Peter's character which was not entirely positive — just like the Peter in Barrie's book who he is dangerous, manipulative and not the hero Disney made out to be. Also, kudos to Anchrum for the massive diversity in the characters representing racial and queer identities... and that's basically it.

This book has the potential to be great. Every occurrence that propels the plot ahead has an eloquent to amplify a few thought-provoking messages; on the vulnerability of youth which hit close to home considering the transition to adulting life that I'll be experiencing. It's dark, mysterious and uncomfortable at times; still, I don't know what went wrong. I am devastated because this is one of my anticipated releases, but also come to be one of the biggest disappointments I've read this year.
]]> The Rainfall Market 216785385 If you could swap your life for a better one, which would you choose?

On the outskirts of Rainbow Town, there is an old, abandoned house. They say that if you send a letter detailing your misfortunes there, you could receive a ticket. If you bring this ticket to the house on the first day of the rainy season, you'll be granted entrance into the mysterious Rainfall Market—where you can choose to completely change your life.

No one is more surprised than Serin when she receives a ticket. Lonely and with no real prospects for a future, Serin ventures to the market, determined to create a better life for herself.

There, she meets a magical cat companion named Issha and they search through bookstores, perfumeries, and fantastical realms while Serin tries to determine what her perfect life will look like.

The catch? Serin only has one week to find her happiness or be doomed to vanish into the market forever.

And all the while, a shadow follows quietly behind them…]]> 206 You Yeong-Gwang 0593952669 aly 3 Charlie and the Chocolate Factory vibes going on despite the book being marketed as a "Harry Potter meets Ghibli." Thereupon, I did dive into this book without any prior expectations, but the early chapters have already raised my anticipation to new heights.

I thought the author did a great job at gradually crafting the world without overwhelming readers with an info dump about the Rainfall Market — a store that sends invitations to those desperately want to change their lives and turns their misfortune. The way it was told to bring you to join Serin in her quest for the rainbow orbs and her interactions with various Dokkaebi characters created a strong sense of community and friendship, which I found enjoyable.

You can see the author frequently references rainbows in the book, symbolizing joy and hope that follow after heavy rain. This theme ties into Serin’s ongoing search for the perfect orbs, which reflects a deeper message where every life has its own ups and downs, and if you start comparing yourself to others, there might be no end to it. The story emphasizes on cherishing the present and building meaningful memories. Knowing that the book thematically parallels the very struggles of the author in life makes it even more poignant. There is this rawness in it, and most personal indeed, which magnifies the strength of the story itself.

However, after a while, it became evident that this might be the author’s first work after all as certain aspects of the writing felt surface-level and in need of refinement which can be attributed to translation issues or simply, for the lack of experience. There were no real surprises, moments of tension, or character development to keep the story compelling.

The plot twist makes you rethink the true nature of the Rainfall Market. What sets Serin apart to receive the Golden Ticket? What initially seemed like a natural event, drawing people in during the rainy season, suddenly becomes wary. The antagonist's actions raise doubts about whether the market was ever genuinely successful or just a clever scheme to collect the elusive "rainbow orbs." By the end, after the villain is "defeated", you're left wondering if everything was a deception from the very beginning.

Undeniably, this is a cozy and charming read, and the right audience would undoubtedly enjoy it more. It’s a quick read, perfect for anyone looking for a light, refreshing break from heavier material—a palate cleanser for those seeking something whimsical and heartwarming.]]> 3.48 2023 The Rainfall Market
author: You Yeong-Gwang
name: aly
average rating: 3.48
book published: 2023
rating: 3
read at: 2025/02/05
date added: 2025/06/24
shelves:
review:
I was immediately captivated by the book from the very first page, as the illustration of the character reminded me of Tim Burton’s distinctive style, which is one of my all-time favorites; and even the opening of the chapter gave me strong Roald Dahl Charlie and the Chocolate Factory vibes going on despite the book being marketed as a "Harry Potter meets Ghibli." Thereupon, I did dive into this book without any prior expectations, but the early chapters have already raised my anticipation to new heights.

I thought the author did a great job at gradually crafting the world without overwhelming readers with an info dump about the Rainfall Market — a store that sends invitations to those desperately want to change their lives and turns their misfortune. The way it was told to bring you to join Serin in her quest for the rainbow orbs and her interactions with various Dokkaebi characters created a strong sense of community and friendship, which I found enjoyable.

You can see the author frequently references rainbows in the book, symbolizing joy and hope that follow after heavy rain. This theme ties into Serin’s ongoing search for the perfect orbs, which reflects a deeper message where every life has its own ups and downs, and if you start comparing yourself to others, there might be no end to it. The story emphasizes on cherishing the present and building meaningful memories. Knowing that the book thematically parallels the very struggles of the author in life makes it even more poignant. There is this rawness in it, and most personal indeed, which magnifies the strength of the story itself.

However, after a while, it became evident that this might be the author’s first work after all as certain aspects of the writing felt surface-level and in need of refinement which can be attributed to translation issues or simply, for the lack of experience. There were no real surprises, moments of tension, or character development to keep the story compelling.

The plot twist makes you rethink the true nature of the Rainfall Market. What sets Serin apart to receive the Golden Ticket? What initially seemed like a natural event, drawing people in during the rainy season, suddenly becomes wary. The antagonist's actions raise doubts about whether the market was ever genuinely successful or just a clever scheme to collect the elusive "rainbow orbs." By the end, after the villain is "defeated", you're left wondering if everything was a deception from the very beginning.

Undeniably, this is a cozy and charming read, and the right audience would undoubtedly enjoy it more. It’s a quick read, perfect for anyone looking for a light, refreshing break from heavier material—a palate cleanser for those seeking something whimsical and heartwarming.
]]> <![CDATA[Hook, Line, and Sinker (Bellinger Sisters, #2)]]> 58283080 friends? Bizarre. But he likes her too much to risk a fling, so platonic pals it is.

Now, Hannah's in town for work, crashing in Fox's spare bedroom. She knows he's a notorious ladies' man, but they're definitely just friends. In fact, she's nursing a hopeless crush on a colleague and Fox is just the person to help with her lackluster love life. Armed with a few tips from Westport's resident Casanova, Hannah sets out to catch her coworker's eye... yet the more time she spends with Fox, the more she wants him instead. As the line between friendship and flirtation begins to blur, Hannah can't deny she loves everything about Fox, but she refuses to be another notch on his bedpost.

Living with his best friend should have been easy. Except now she's walking around in a towel, sleeping right across the hall, and Fox is fantasizing about waking up next to her for the rest of his life and... and... man overboard! He's fallen for her, hook, line, and sinker. Helping her flirt with another guy is pure torture, but maybe if Fox can tackle his inner demons and show Hannah he's all in, she'll choose him instead?

In the follow-up to It Happened One Summer, Tessa Bailey delivers another deliciously fun rom-com about a former player who accidentally falls for his best friend while trying to help her land a different man...]]> 353 Tessa Bailey 0063045699 aly 2
I usually would lay it out on what I like about a book first, but I don't think I have anything to bring to the table for this one. Not even the smut could save it. I either roamed or skipped it through as there weren’t much of the plot to cling to.

"I'm good at being... supportive"


Well, realistically speaking, there is a reason why you're the supporting character in the first book. Obviously, not everyone can be the 'leading lady' and Hannah just proved why. I'm not sure if it's either that she was forgettable in IHOS or this feels like reading a different character who despite the 'reconstruction' is still one-dimensional and the blandest I've read from Tessa. I thought she was cool with being the side chick, who does not care for the 'spotlight.' What happened to the actual plot? ]]> 3.87 2022 Hook, Line, and Sinker (Bellinger Sisters, #2)
author: Tessa Bailey
name: aly
average rating: 3.87
book published: 2022
rating: 2
read at: 2022/03/04
date added: 2025/06/24
shelves:
review:
After the polarizing reviews I've been seeing around, you don't know how bad I wanted to be on the good side. I know friend-to-lover, in general, is a missed for me, but I do put strong faith in Tessa to turn the table with Hannah and Fox. I refused to believe that Tessa Bailey could disappoint me until today. Hook, Line, and Sinker is literally if not the most — one of my anticipated 2022 reads. The outcome? Underwhelming.

I usually would lay it out on what I like about a book first, but I don't think I have anything to bring to the table for this one. Not even the smut could save it. I either roamed or skipped it through as there weren’t much of the plot to cling to.

"I'm good at being... supportive"


Well, realistically speaking, there is a reason why you're the supporting character in the first book. Obviously, not everyone can be the 'leading lady' and Hannah just proved why. I'm not sure if it's either that she was forgettable in IHOS or this feels like reading a different character who despite the 'reconstruction' is still one-dimensional and the blandest I've read from Tessa. I thought she was cool with being the side chick, who does not care for the 'spotlight.' What happened to the actual plot?
]]> The Lost Sunday 220160132
Nina lives in a dusty town haunted by the six angry wolves of the week—Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. Each day brings never-ending chores and drudgery. Legend speaks of a seventh day to rest—Sunday—but everybody knows an evil witch stole it and keeps it locked away. When Nina finally says enough is enough, she sets out on an ambitious quest for rest, but will she be able to vanquish the witch and bring back the lost Sunday?

Inspired by old folklore and fairy tales, this story shines a magical light on a present-day burnout and the importance of leisure. A great read for kids and adults alike!]]> 72 Iléana Surducan 1637157754 aly 0 to-read 4.67 2021 The Lost Sunday
author: Iléana Surducan
name: aly
average rating: 4.67
book published: 2021
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/06/24
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Rewind It Back (Windy City, #5)]]> 216156650
When I was eleven, my family moved next door to his.
When I was thirteen, he was my first crush.
When I was sixteen, we fell for each other.

And when I was nineteen, we broke each other's hearts.

Six years later, I've landed an internship with a big-name interior designer in a new city. Unfortunately, that city just so happens to be the one he plays hockey for.

I thought Chicago was big enough to avoid him, until I get the surprise of a lifetime and unknowingly move in right next door. Even worse? The renovation project I'm assigned to in hopes of turning that internship into my full-time dream job...

It's his house.

But how am I supposed to update his bachelor pad into a family home when we can't even stand to be in the same room?

I may have loved Rio DeLuca once, but I'm not that same girl anymore.

RIO

I never thought I'd be the only single one left in my friend group. But after years of trying to find love, I've concluded it may not exist for me anymore.

That is, until I accidentally hire Hallie Hart to renovate my house and our jaded history has me rewinding memories I've kept secret for years.

You see, there's something that my friends don't know.

That connection I've been looking for since I moved to Chicago, that one person some search their entire lives to find . . . I had already found her when I was twelve years old.

And now the only girl I've ever loved is moving into the house next door.

Again.

Rewind It Back is the fifth and FINAL book in the sensational Windy City series which has gripped over a million readers across the world. But don't worry if you're new round here, you'll still love it as a standalone!]]> 491 Liz Tomforde aly 3
Admittedly, I've always adored Isaiah and Kennedy’s story the most, and while I’ve been a Rio fan in every previous appearance, I never expected his book to win me over this much. You don’t even understand how much I love Rio and Hallie!!

The only reason this isn’t a full five stars comes down to a few technical hiccups. During those years when Rio and Hallie were stuck in their emotional limbo, some moments felt a little questionable? [spoilers removed]

That said, I’m so intrigued by the hints of a potential new series! (I don't know if the author has talked about this somewhere, I am honestly just assuming). If there’s more coming, count me in—I’m already hyped.

Still, it’s bittersweet to see the Windy City series concluding. Usually, with long-running anthologies, some books hit while others miss, but this one stayed consistently great. The found family? The chemistry? The emotional depth? You don't know how I’m going to miss this crew so much!

(This is more of like a post-reading yapping because I have yet to wrap my mind around the book. Further RTC!)]]> 4.52 2025 Rewind It Back (Windy City, #5)
author: Liz Tomforde
name: aly
average rating: 4.52
book published: 2025
rating: 3
read at: 2025/05/21
date added: 2025/06/24
shelves:
review:
A bittersweet farewell to a beloved series ｡°(°.◜ᯅ◝°)°｡I’m soooo sad this has come to an end, it feels like saying goodbye to dear friends.

Admittedly, I've always adored Isaiah and Kennedy’s story the most, and while I’ve been a Rio fan in every previous appearance, I never expected his book to win me over this much. You don’t even understand how much I love Rio and Hallie!!

The only reason this isn’t a full five stars comes down to a few technical hiccups. During those years when Rio and Hallie were stuck in their emotional limbo, some moments felt a little questionable? [spoilers removed]

That said, I’m so intrigued by the hints of a potential new series! (I don't know if the author has talked about this somewhere, I am honestly just assuming). If there’s more coming, count me in—I’m already hyped.

Still, it’s bittersweet to see the Windy City series concluding. Usually, with long-running anthologies, some books hit while others miss, but this one stayed consistently great. The found family? The chemistry? The emotional depth? You don't know how I’m going to miss this crew so much!

(This is more of like a post-reading yapping because I have yet to wrap my mind around the book. Further RTC!)
]]> Honeybee 36206132 "I still remember you /  as a little girl /  who overwaters plants /  because she doesn't know /  when to stop giving."
Mateer's  Honeybee  is part poetic memoir and part manual for letting go. Each poem, bittersweet on its own, weaves together to tell a heart-wrenching tale about heartbreak and identity. Following an imperfect love story between best friends all the way to its messy end, this collection is a reminder that you are not defined by the people you walk away from or the people who walk away from you.
"It would be a shame /  to look back on this /  and (out of bitterness) /  not call it love."  ]]> 160 Trista Mateer 1771681365 aly 2
However, I've come to realize that love poems are really hard to break through. I'm not sure if it's because of the writing style (not a fan of modern poetry, honestly) or the nature of the poems itself (because single pringle don't wanna mingle here). And I believe works like this would resonate better with people who are going through the same thing as through time and time, I find myself pissing and bored.

Honeybee explores more than just the theme of love, loss and heartbreak as it also deals with healing and changing. Nevertheless, I find some of the messages repetitive and I couldn't see much evolution in the poems. This is pretty much stereotypical Tumblr posts that had its metaphors repeat again and over. It's about someone who was unable to move on from past lovers over the course of years and as a result, penned a couple hundred poems about it in various forms. That's what.

But then again, I acknowledged that poetry is such a subjective thing and whatever written will always get back to what the author was feeling and trying to divulge at the time. It was never about me. Even so, I still believe this book should be read when you're in the same shoes as the author or you'll feel absolutely disconnected. Too bad it didn't work out for me.]]> 3.82 2014 Honeybee
author: Trista Mateer
name: aly
average rating: 3.82
book published: 2014
rating: 2
read at: 2021/11/18
date added: 2025/06/23
shelves:
review:
Pick this in a whim because the book cover is enticing. And a thing about me is that: I love genius lyricists. I could listen and analyze Taylor Swift’s creative writing in her songs, or Namjoon's play words even when I’ve never been in said position of what they're conveying.

However, I've come to realize that love poems are really hard to break through. I'm not sure if it's because of the writing style (not a fan of modern poetry, honestly) or the nature of the poems itself (because single pringle don't wanna mingle here). And I believe works like this would resonate better with people who are going through the same thing as through time and time, I find myself pissing and bored.

Honeybee explores more than just the theme of love, loss and heartbreak as it also deals with healing and changing. Nevertheless, I find some of the messages repetitive and I couldn't see much evolution in the poems. This is pretty much stereotypical Tumblr posts that had its metaphors repeat again and over. It's about someone who was unable to move on from past lovers over the course of years and as a result, penned a couple hundred poems about it in various forms. That's what.

But then again, I acknowledged that poetry is such a subjective thing and whatever written will always get back to what the author was feeling and trying to divulge at the time. It was never about me. Even so, I still believe this book should be read when you're in the same shoes as the author or you'll feel absolutely disconnected. Too bad it didn't work out for me.
]]> Comfort Me with Apples 56179382
It's just that he's away so much. So often. He works so hard. She misses him. And he misses her. He says he does, so it must be true. He is the perfect husband and everything is perfect.

But sometimes Sophia wonders about things. Strange things. Dark things. The look on her husband's face when he comes back from a long business trip. The questions he will not answer. The locked basement she is never allowed to enter. And whenever she asks the neighbors, they can't quite meet her gaze...

But everything is perfect. Isn't it?]]> 103 Catherynne M. Valente 1250816211 aly 3
The writing made this easy to read, and I was hooked from the start though I was a little skeptical on how Valente would pull this one. However, it was incredible to see how she was more than capable with a shorter length book with each word being significant and placed just where it should be.

I have to say I was taken aback by the revelation as I'm expecting anything but that! How this book does not sell as [spoilers removed] is the surprise element itself. The repeated ups and downs of what amounts to gaslighting, the manipulation from reality were suspended in a space of uncertainty, almost nearly enough to make a reader sick to one's stomach. The plot was well constructed and the clues were placed out in such a way that you won't see them until later, making the whole time reading this tantalizing.

Not to say, the resolution haunted me but since I'm not a big fan of disconsolate ending — I only managed to rate this with three stars! It just messes with my head. I think the author could be more explorative than putting a finish as it was. Still and all, this doesn't diminish that admittedly, this book is brilliant and horrifyingly delightful.]]> 3.57 2021 Comfort Me with Apples
author: Catherynne M. Valente
name: aly
average rating: 3.57
book published: 2021
rating: 3
read at: 2021/11/28
date added: 2025/06/22
shelves:
review:
The fact that I read this in a car while having a terrible motion sickness to exist showed how hard to put down this book is.

The writing made this easy to read, and I was hooked from the start though I was a little skeptical on how Valente would pull this one. However, it was incredible to see how she was more than capable with a shorter length book with each word being significant and placed just where it should be.

I have to say I was taken aback by the revelation as I'm expecting anything but that! How this book does not sell as [spoilers removed] is the surprise element itself. The repeated ups and downs of what amounts to gaslighting, the manipulation from reality were suspended in a space of uncertainty, almost nearly enough to make a reader sick to one's stomach. The plot was well constructed and the clues were placed out in such a way that you won't see them until later, making the whole time reading this tantalizing.

Not to say, the resolution haunted me but since I'm not a big fan of disconsolate ending — I only managed to rate this with three stars! It just messes with my head. I think the author could be more explorative than putting a finish as it was. Still and all, this doesn't diminish that admittedly, this book is brilliant and horrifyingly delightful.
]]> Garlic and the Witch 59811239 Bree Paulsen's brave little protagonist, Garlic, is back in this charmingly illustrated standalone companion to Garlic and the Vampire, serving up another tale of friendship, magic, and self-discovery. Give both books to readers who fell in love with Tidesong or Witch Boy!

Garlic loves spending time with Witch Agnes, Carrot, and her new friend, the Count, who has proven to be a delightful neighbor to the village of vegetable people rather than a scary vampire. But despite Agnes's best attempts to home-brew a vegetarian blood substitute for Count, the ingredient she needs most can only be found at the Magic Market, far from the valley.

Before she knows it, with a broomstick in hand, Garlic is nervously preparing for a journey.

But Garlic is experiencing another change too--finger by finger, she appears to be turning human. Witch Agnes assures her that this is normal for her garden magic, but Garlic isn't so sure that she's ready for such a big change. After all, changes are scary...and what if she doesn't want to be human after all?]]> 160 Bree Paulsen 006299512X aly 3 4.33 2022 Garlic and the Witch
author: Bree Paulsen
name: aly
average rating: 4.33
book published: 2022
rating: 3
read at: 2025/06/22
date added: 2025/06/22
shelves:
review:

]]> Spy x Family, Vol. 1 53541477
Not one to depend on others, Twilight has his work cut out for him procuring both a wife and a child for his mission to infiltrate an elite private school. What he doesn’t know is that the wife he’s chosen is an assassin and the child he’s adopted is a telepath!]]> 220 Tatsuya Endo aly 5
Safe to say, I never picked a manga so fast. Having anime adaptation is common and I know most production follows exactly like the manga, but the resemblance is uncanny — I am just blown away! This book is so easygoing and fun; compromising the found family from a spy, mind reader, and assasin which is such an odd, refined family if you ask me.

Twilight is such a classic tsundere character, cut off from the rest of the world by his occupation. You can see his only goal is to carry out his mission and so he tries to block off his heart to Anya, his pseudo-daughter, when he first takes her home, unknowingly, that the spy-obsessed little girl had her way of getting into his thoughts.

Meanwhile, Yor Briar despite being an assassin is a lovely woman who dreams of romance. Twilight's first connection with her is built on deception where he claims he wants to fulfill his late wife's desires, much as she wants to deceive her brother. Yor never tells her "husband" about her assassin activities, and Twilight keeps Yor in the dark about his genuine motivation for enrolling Anya in the school.

This family is just full of secrets and I can't wait for the truth to be revealed. You'll notice despite trying to shield themselves from their identity, they still couldn't hide their true colors. This start of the series is just a strike of humor, plot twist, and violence, blended perfectly together so that there will be no dull moment when you read this.

I love every character's backstory and I just couldn't wait to get to know them better as we go. The commentary of the given society at the time matches the characters so well, I appreciate that the mangaka is putting attention to detail on it.

Not to say, the art style is a fantastic match for the layout! Everyone is just so gorgeous. It's detailed in terms of people and background, and key aspects are underlined in each panel to add more to each scene, there aren't any pages that feel underutilized. There's blood and violence, but the art nicely balances it out with cheerful and soothing family moments.

As much as it overwhelms me because everything felt like it was shoved from the first volume, it feels whole. I can see how it will work to serve the anime later on and believe it will be a bunch of joy! Looking forward to the next mission lessssgooooo.]]> 4.57 2019 Spy x Family, Vol. 1
author: Tatsuya Endo
name: aly
average rating: 4.57
book published: 2019
rating: 5
read at: 2022/04/13
date added: 2025/06/22
shelves:
review:
I've always wanted to read this, but the question is: why didn't I do so sooner? Not until the anime was released that I watched it and become head over heels with Twilight and Anya, just from the 20 minutes video and it's only been the first episode.

Safe to say, I never picked a manga so fast. Having anime adaptation is common and I know most production follows exactly like the manga, but the resemblance is uncanny — I am just blown away! This book is so easygoing and fun; compromising the found family from a spy, mind reader, and assasin which is such an odd, refined family if you ask me.

Twilight is such a classic tsundere character, cut off from the rest of the world by his occupation. You can see his only goal is to carry out his mission and so he tries to block off his heart to Anya, his pseudo-daughter, when he first takes her home, unknowingly, that the spy-obsessed little girl had her way of getting into his thoughts.

Meanwhile, Yor Briar despite being an assassin is a lovely woman who dreams of romance. Twilight's first connection with her is built on deception where he claims he wants to fulfill his late wife's desires, much as she wants to deceive her brother. Yor never tells her "husband" about her assassin activities, and Twilight keeps Yor in the dark about his genuine motivation for enrolling Anya in the school.

This family is just full of secrets and I can't wait for the truth to be revealed. You'll notice despite trying to shield themselves from their identity, they still couldn't hide their true colors. This start of the series is just a strike of humor, plot twist, and violence, blended perfectly together so that there will be no dull moment when you read this.

I love every character's backstory and I just couldn't wait to get to know them better as we go. The commentary of the given society at the time matches the characters so well, I appreciate that the mangaka is putting attention to detail on it.

Not to say, the art style is a fantastic match for the layout! Everyone is just so gorgeous. It's detailed in terms of people and background, and key aspects are underlined in each panel to add more to each scene, there aren't any pages that feel underutilized. There's blood and violence, but the art nicely balances it out with cheerful and soothing family moments.

As much as it overwhelms me because everything felt like it was shoved from the first volume, it feels whole. I can see how it will work to serve the anime later on and believe it will be a bunch of joy! Looking forward to the next mission lessssgooooo.
]]> <![CDATA[Ten Trends to Seduce Your Bestfriend]]> 59979662
Yes, they’ve known each other for years, but they’re not even friendly. Winnie considers them more like casual, distant acquaintances who find each other barely tolerable, especially when he's being condescending (which is all the time).

The truth is, they have nothing in common. She’s a public school science teacher with stars in her eyes, and he’s a pretentious, joyless double PhD turned world-famous bestselling fiction author. She loves sharing her passion for promulgating women in STEM careers and building community via social media, and he eschews all socialization, virtual or otherwise. She’s looking for a side hustle to help pay down a mountain of student debt, and his financial portfolio is the stuff of fiduciary wet dreams. So why are they faking a #bestfriend relationship for millions of online spectators?

When a simple case of tit-for-tat trends between nonfriends leads to a wholly unexpected kind of pretend, nothing is simple. Sometimes, it takes a public audience to reveal the truth of private feelings, and rarely—very rarely—you should believe what you see online.

Ten Trends to Seduce Your Bestfriend is a full-length, complete standalone, adult contemporary romantic comedy.
]]> 436 Penny Reid 1942874847 aly 5
"Sooner or later you're going to risk it all if you want to live a full life. I can't give you a shortcut. You need to learn how to trust all on your own. Uncertainty in a relationship continues after the I love yous. You must learn how to operate on faith if you want to last"

[CRYING, SCREAMING, KICKING, PUNCHING THE WALL] Perfect book didn't exist they said. Well, I said it’s because they don't know this book exists.

Winnie is science instructor who is ever bright and enthusiastic about her interests in the STEM fields. She enjoys sharing her knowledge with others on social media and wants to use her platform to connect on a more personal level with her audience while trying to secure her position as community manager.

On a side note, she also had the luck of knowing her bestfriend's best friend, Bryson, who had become a well-known, best-selling novelist in the last six years. Bryson had always been ardent, creative genius, but also broody reclusive. They are completely contradictory and he never fails to perplex her with the frequent unsolicited advice and remark that is borderline unpleasant. Accordingly, she will avoid him whenever possible, but things get difficult when they strike a mutually beneficial pact.

(please be noted that this review may contain a minor spoiler)

If I have to describe this book, I'd say it'd be a byproduct if The Love Hypothesis and The Spanish Love Deception get married and had a child. Although that may sound sketchy, given the polarizing reviews of the two books after the hype — but trust me, this one wouldn't disappoint. I am literally catching diabetes for how sweet this is.

I know it wouldn't work out for some people, given the length of the book, and to a certain degree, you might find them repetitive. But if you have been enjoying MZ books, you have no excuse not to love this. I need to make plain how this book focuses a lot on its characters. So, if you're a plot-driven reader, this book may also not be for you.

Be that as it may, Winnie and Bryson were written the most gracefully and substantially. They were so domestic and real — with their continual bickering and inability to convey their emotions which left them in lots of awkward moments and wasted opportunities. But for all that, they are poster people for why communication is so vital in a relationship. And I can't stress enough how I love when they talk and discuss things through, albeit molding you into thinking that there were also lots of flounders in between as well.

The slow-burning and building relationship between Winnie and Byron is my favorite aspect of this book. They steadily progressed from acquaintances to friends and then lovers which left me with no room to argue that this may be the best 'friend to lover' trope I've read. Byron was always prepared to devote himself to Winnie, despite Winnie didn't believe she was capable of being loved. The way they both are willing to give and take as they embark on their new relationship is something I relished myself. Although you may be in two minds given that both of the characters are inexperienced and virgins but Reid portrayed their insecurities and conversance as bona fide and genuine.

The pick of a litter? It's a dual POV! You're telling me, you get the hero's POV where the book serves with a mutual pining where the guy falls first? I hit the jackpot with this one. I wouldn't think I'll enjoy this book as much if it hinges on Winnie's perspective alone as I've tasted my own medicine with MZ's book. It was so hard to grasp and account for the hero for being an asshole apropos of nothing when I believe the other side should be heard as well. Nonetheless, TTTSYB is brimming with the complex inner workings of the characters, allowing you to understand both Winnie and Bryson better given their histories.

Now, this book also made me rethink all the STEM romances I've come to enjoy as Reid took this to a different level. This book emphasized the importance of women in STEM fields. There are undeniably capable authors writing on this subject, and we hear echoes of this message in our society. Reid, on the other hand, emphasizes it in her story in a way that makes you realize the movement requires greater weight.

I love the message that having hobbies outside of STEM does not make someone less of a scientist or engineer and that they should not conceal or change who they are to be accepted seriously in those fields. Like, I'm such a shit person again for comparing, but Hazelwood STEM romances were put down to shame, now that I've read such a masterpiece as TTTSYB. I guess, that is the beauty of reading as you discover more throughout.

Soooo... I think it's too late to gatekeep this, right? And I'm not sure if I'm serving any justice with this review as I don't think there will be enough words to put how stellar this book had been. Not just for the romance, but also for the amazing writing and care Reid put through with this one.

I would love to have more people enjoying this, hence if you're in for a slow burn from a burst of grumpy sunshine and total opposite, or maybe you would want to experience the bliss of friend to lover, read this and see for yourself. You're in for a life-changing game, no lies.]]> 3.68 2022 Ten Trends to Seduce Your Bestfriend
author: Penny Reid
name: aly
average rating: 3.68
book published: 2022
rating: 5
read at: 2022/04/21
date added: 2025/06/22
shelves:
review:
"Sooner or later you're going to risk it all if you want to live a full life. I can't give you a shortcut. You need to learn how to trust all on your own. Uncertainty in a relationship continues after the I love yous. You must learn how to operate on faith if you want to last"

[CRYING, SCREAMING, KICKING, PUNCHING THE WALL] Perfect book didn't exist they said. Well, I said it’s because they don't know this book exists.

Winnie is science instructor who is ever bright and enthusiastic about her interests in the STEM fields. She enjoys sharing her knowledge with others on social media and wants to use her platform to connect on a more personal level with her audience while trying to secure her position as community manager.

On a side note, she also had the luck of knowing her bestfriend's best friend, Bryson, who had become a well-known, best-selling novelist in the last six years. Bryson had always been ardent, creative genius, but also broody reclusive. They are completely contradictory and he never fails to perplex her with the frequent unsolicited advice and remark that is borderline unpleasant. Accordingly, she will avoid him whenever possible, but things get difficult when they strike a mutually beneficial pact.

(please be noted that this review may contain a minor spoiler)

If I have to describe this book, I'd say it'd be a byproduct if The Love Hypothesis and The Spanish Love Deception get married and had a child. Although that may sound sketchy, given the polarizing reviews of the two books after the hype — but trust me, this one wouldn't disappoint. I am literally catching diabetes for how sweet this is.

I know it wouldn't work out for some people, given the length of the book, and to a certain degree, you might find them repetitive. But if you have been enjoying MZ books, you have no excuse not to love this. I need to make plain how this book focuses a lot on its characters. So, if you're a plot-driven reader, this book may also not be for you.

Be that as it may, Winnie and Bryson were written the most gracefully and substantially. They were so domestic and real — with their continual bickering and inability to convey their emotions which left them in lots of awkward moments and wasted opportunities. But for all that, they are poster people for why communication is so vital in a relationship. And I can't stress enough how I love when they talk and discuss things through, albeit molding you into thinking that there were also lots of flounders in between as well.

The slow-burning and building relationship between Winnie and Byron is my favorite aspect of this book. They steadily progressed from acquaintances to friends and then lovers which left me with no room to argue that this may be the best 'friend to lover' trope I've read. Byron was always prepared to devote himself to Winnie, despite Winnie didn't believe she was capable of being loved. The way they both are willing to give and take as they embark on their new relationship is something I relished myself. Although you may be in two minds given that both of the characters are inexperienced and virgins but Reid portrayed their insecurities and conversance as bona fide and genuine.

The pick of a litter? It's a dual POV! You're telling me, you get the hero's POV where the book serves with a mutual pining where the guy falls first? I hit the jackpot with this one. I wouldn't think I'll enjoy this book as much if it hinges on Winnie's perspective alone as I've tasted my own medicine with MZ's book. It was so hard to grasp and account for the hero for being an asshole apropos of nothing when I believe the other side should be heard as well. Nonetheless, TTTSYB is brimming with the complex inner workings of the characters, allowing you to understand both Winnie and Bryson better given their histories.

Now, this book also made me rethink all the STEM romances I've come to enjoy as Reid took this to a different level. This book emphasized the importance of women in STEM fields. There are undeniably capable authors writing on this subject, and we hear echoes of this message in our society. Reid, on the other hand, emphasizes it in her story in a way that makes you realize the movement requires greater weight.

I love the message that having hobbies outside of STEM does not make someone less of a scientist or engineer and that they should not conceal or change who they are to be accepted seriously in those fields. Like, I'm such a shit person again for comparing, but Hazelwood STEM romances were put down to shame, now that I've read such a masterpiece as TTTSYB. I guess, that is the beauty of reading as you discover more throughout.

Soooo... I think it's too late to gatekeep this, right? And I'm not sure if I'm serving any justice with this review as I don't think there will be enough words to put how stellar this book had been. Not just for the romance, but also for the amazing writing and care Reid put through with this one.

I would love to have more people enjoying this, hence if you're in for a slow burn from a burst of grumpy sunshine and total opposite, or maybe you would want to experience the bliss of friend to lover, read this and see for yourself. You're in for a life-changing game, no lies.
]]> <![CDATA[Satan's Affair (Cat and Mouse, #0.5)]]> 57748116
We travel the country, offering terrifying haunted houses, thrilling rides and the tastiest food. And with every passing town, I cleanse this world, one execution at a time.

I hide within the walls, casting my judgement for those that reek of evil, singing lullabies to their rotting souls.

Once you've been chosen, there's no escaping my henchmen—they cater to my every desire.

You can run and you can hide, but it only excites me.

Come.

Take a walk through my dollhouse, where your screams will blend and your cute little pleas will go unanswered.

But I can't promise it'll be over quickly...]]> 197 H.D. Carlton aly 3
I started this book because I wanted to read the author's Cat and Mouse Duet, and I have to say, I was not expecting it to be that gory and vicious. I've been debating whether or not to DNF this book because of all the explicit stabbings and bloodiness it depicted. Not to say, I find it a bit tedious at first and the smut felt a bit superfluous given the premise. I wouldn't think I'll enjoy them anyway.

However, the plot twist makes up for it and it just makes so much sense towards the end, I'm quite baffled (in a good way). I would like to say more, but given that this is a novella — I don't feel like spoiling it. So, if you would love yourself a dark book on psychopaths, cults, and violence with a smudge of smuts. Maybe, this is what you're looking for all along.]]> 3.71 2021 Satan's Affair (Cat and Mouse, #0.5)
author: H.D. Carlton
name: aly
average rating: 3.71
book published: 2021
rating: 3
read at: 2022/05/03
date added: 2025/06/22
shelves:
review:
Sybil works at Satan's Affair where they will travel across the country, providing horrific haunted houses, exhilarating rides, and delectable cuisine every Halloween. Yet with each passing town, Sybil will ensure that one execution is carried out at a time, ridding the earth of the stench of evil and decaying souls. And with the help of her henchmen, the evils' screams and cries will surely suspend and go unheard.

I started this book because I wanted to read the author's Cat and Mouse Duet, and I have to say, I was not expecting it to be that gory and vicious. I've been debating whether or not to DNF this book because of all the explicit stabbings and bloodiness it depicted. Not to say, I find it a bit tedious at first and the smut felt a bit superfluous given the premise. I wouldn't think I'll enjoy them anyway.

However, the plot twist makes up for it and it just makes so much sense towards the end, I'm quite baffled (in a good way). I would like to say more, but given that this is a novella — I don't feel like spoiling it. So, if you would love yourself a dark book on psychopaths, cults, and violence with a smudge of smuts. Maybe, this is what you're looking for all along.
]]> The White Book 39220683 From the winner of the Man Booker International Prize for The Vegetarian

Writing while on a residency in Warsaw, a city palpably scarred by the violence of the past, the narrator finds herself haunted by the story of her older sister, who died a mere two hours after birth. A fragmented exploration of white things - the swaddling bands that were also her shroud, the breast milk she did not live to drink, the blank page on which the narrator herself attempts to reconstruct the story - unfolds in a powerfully poetic distillation.

As she walks the unfamiliar, snow-streaked streets, lined by buildings formerly obliterated in the Second World War, their identities blur and overlap as the narrator wonders, 'Can I give this life to you?'. The White Book is a book like no other. It is a meditation on a colour, on the tenacity and fragility of the human spirit, and our attempts to graft new life from the ashes of destruction.

This is both the most autobiographical and the most experimental book to date from South Korean master Han Kang.]]> 161 Han Kang aly 3
Yet within this unconventional form, Han Kang wields language with startling precision. Written with an almost tyrannical grip on the heart, the color "white" bears a duality. It symbolizes purity and stillness yet also serves as a harbinger of loss and death. It embodies the sister who died at birth, the subtle space between existence and void, the weight of absence, and the fragility of memory. This is the kind of literature that doesn’t shout its themes but let them quietly accumulate into an avalanche of meaning, with the power lying in what Han Kang chooses not to explain—the spaces between words that somehow contain everything.

Perhaps the greatest achievement is how she makes white, a color often associated with emptiness, feel so unbearably full. Every blankness in the novel hums with unspoken histories, like the ghostly negative space where that unborn sister might have been. It's a stroke of genius that the book itself feels like a blank sheet of paper—so white it becomes almost blinding. It’s the kind of book that asks you to slow down and sit with its words, and when it works, it really works.

Unfortunately for me though, it didn’t fully come together and fell into unsatisfying middle ground. Han Kang’s personal reflections on grief have moments of quiet beauty, but overall, the book felt more like someone else’s private thoughts than something that deeply moved me. Some passages worked well, while others felt too light, like fleeting bite-size poetry. I see the skill in her writing, but it never fully clicked for me—beautiful, but not transformative. Maybe, like certain book, its impact may hinge on being read at precisely the needed hour. As it was, they passed me by.

Nevertheless, having now read my first Han Kang novel; this experience hasn't discouraged me from exploring her other works. In fact, I'm now curious to see how her talents manifest in more traditionally structured novels. The White Book may not have been my ideal introduction, but it revealed enough expertise to make me want to try again with different expectations. Some books teach us what we don't love as much as what we do, and that discovery has its own value.]]> 3.92 2016 The White Book
author: Han Kang
name: aly
average rating: 3.92
book published: 2016
rating: 3
read at: 2024/12/27
date added: 2025/06/21
shelves:
review:
White is not like most books you’ve read. It is a novel, but it is not a novel—or at least not in any conventional sense. It exists in that liminal space between forms; more lyrical prose piece than plot-driven narrative, closer to a private diary than traditional fiction. It also doesn’t follow a clear story with characters and events.

Yet within this unconventional form, Han Kang wields language with startling precision. Written with an almost tyrannical grip on the heart, the color "white" bears a duality. It symbolizes purity and stillness yet also serves as a harbinger of loss and death. It embodies the sister who died at birth, the subtle space between existence and void, the weight of absence, and the fragility of memory. This is the kind of literature that doesn’t shout its themes but let them quietly accumulate into an avalanche of meaning, with the power lying in what Han Kang chooses not to explain—the spaces between words that somehow contain everything.

Perhaps the greatest achievement is how she makes white, a color often associated with emptiness, feel so unbearably full. Every blankness in the novel hums with unspoken histories, like the ghostly negative space where that unborn sister might have been. It's a stroke of genius that the book itself feels like a blank sheet of paper—so white it becomes almost blinding. It’s the kind of book that asks you to slow down and sit with its words, and when it works, it really works.

Unfortunately for me though, it didn’t fully come together and fell into unsatisfying middle ground. Han Kang’s personal reflections on grief have moments of quiet beauty, but overall, the book felt more like someone else’s private thoughts than something that deeply moved me. Some passages worked well, while others felt too light, like fleeting bite-size poetry. I see the skill in her writing, but it never fully clicked for me—beautiful, but not transformative. Maybe, like certain book, its impact may hinge on being read at precisely the needed hour. As it was, they passed me by.

Nevertheless, having now read my first Han Kang novel; this experience hasn't discouraged me from exploring her other works. In fact, I'm now curious to see how her talents manifest in more traditionally structured novels. The White Book may not have been my ideal introduction, but it revealed enough expertise to make me want to try again with different expectations. Some books teach us what we don't love as much as what we do, and that discovery has its own value.
]]> <![CDATA[Problematic Summer Romance (Not in Love, #2)]]> 228691356 What is wrong meets what feels right in this romance set in Italy by the New York Times bestselling author of Deep End.

Maya Killgore is twenty-three and still in the process of figuring out her life.

Conor Harkness is thirty-eight, and Maya cannot stop thinking about him.

It’s such a cliché, it almost makes her heart implode: older man and younger woman; successful biotech guy and struggling grad student; brother’s best friend and the girl he never even knew existed. As Conor loves to remind her, the power dynamic is too imbalanced. Any relationship between them would be problematic in too many ways to count, and Maya should just get over him. After all, he has made it clear that he wants her gone from his life.

But not everything is as it seems—and clichés sometimes become plot twists.

When Maya’s brother decides to get married in Taormina, she and Conor end up stuck together in a romantic Sicilian villa for over a week. There, on the beautiful Ionian coast, between ancient ruins, delicious foods, and natural caves, Maya realizes that Conor might be hiding something from her. And as the destination wedding begins to erupt out of control, she decides that a summer fling might be just what she needs—even if it’s a problematic one.]]> 416 Ali Hazelwood aly 3
Therefore, the second I see the short notice of this book coming out this year, with the very exact trope that I have been wanting to read: SAY NO MORE. Any past vows that I have made to not actively pick up Hazelwood's book has just been sweep under the rug.

Now, I do not know if my first mistake was to not read the first book as I was under the impression that it can be read independently. However, getting into the first chapter already got me lost in the sauce because it was hard for me to grasp what is actually happening. Not only later that I realized the story intentionally begins with foreshadowing, and the flashbacks woven between chapters gradually fill in the gaps.

Aside from the rocky start, I am wading through a constant brain fog with the vast cast in the books. I honestly couldn't tell if some of them had already made cameos in the previous book or if they were new faces altogether, but it was tough to keep track of who was who. That’s probably why it took me so long to pick the book up again and actually finish it. I am just not a great reader when I’m confused.

From here on out, I wouldn't say this book ticks all the boxes for what I usually look for in a good brother's best friend book, but I am still happy with how it turned out. It does not offer me all the tensions and forbidden romance narrative I expected since Eli seemed completely unfazed by Maya and Conor’s relationship despite the age gap. I was not feeling that edge-of-my-seat anticipation on that front, but I did appreciate the more mature direction the story decided to take, giving the trope a fresh, grounded feel.

Maya and Conor emerge as beautifully complex characters whose electric dynamic forms the soul of this story. Maya's razor-sharp wit and unapologetic teasing serve as the perfect counterpoint to Conor's restrained, occasionally infuriating reserve. Their chemistry crackles through every interaction - I couldn't get enough reading typically composed Conor unravel at Maya's provocations, while she fearlessly chips away at his defenses.

While I don't have strong feelings about age gap romance either way, the brilliance of Maya and Conor’s relationship lies in how it transforms the trope into a thoughtful exploration of intimacy. Maya isn’t reduced to a naive ingénue, and Conor isn’t cast as a predatory stereotype. It is unyielding because they have built something far more meaningful; a partnership where respect, not years lived, becomes the measure of equality. And truly, that is where the story shines. However, I wish the entire conflict wasn't so repetitive—it gets exhausting. Hazelwood seems to favor this approach, as seen in her other works too. The point gets across; you don’t need to hammer it in every two chapters!

Nevertheless, I was also pleasantly surprised by how tastefully the intimate scenes were written; a stark contrast to the discomfort I usually feel when reading them in Hazelwood’s other books. Now the only reason I didn't rate this higher than it should aside from the repetitiveness is because
i) the external drama early in the story didn't quite land for me; never liked other woman farce
ii) the book never quite gave me those breathless, giddy butterflies that my favorite four-star romances consistently deliver


All told, in a genre that often reduces age gaps to fantasy or moral failing, Maya and Conor's journey stands out for treating love as complicated, personal, and ultimately definable only by those living it. I wished we get more of them and would love to revisit through future appearances like other Hazelwood's characters do. And perhaps, they are making their way to the top of my favorite Hazelwood's couple!! (ps: you're no longer safe @ Olive x Adam/Misery x Lowe)]]> 3.97 2025 Problematic Summer Romance (Not in Love, #2)
author: Ali Hazelwood
name: aly
average rating: 3.97
book published: 2025
rating: 3
read at: 2025/06/15
date added: 2025/06/21
shelves:
review:
Have you ever had that sudden insatiable craving for a very specific trope? Because I do, and just like last year, I have been desperately hunting for a brother’s best friend romance but was met with a dead end. Nothing ever meets what I consider a good bill for the trope.

Therefore, the second I see the short notice of this book coming out this year, with the very exact trope that I have been wanting to read: SAY NO MORE. Any past vows that I have made to not actively pick up Hazelwood's book has just been sweep under the rug.

Now, I do not know if my first mistake was to not read the first book as I was under the impression that it can be read independently. However, getting into the first chapter already got me lost in the sauce because it was hard for me to grasp what is actually happening. Not only later that I realized the story intentionally begins with foreshadowing, and the flashbacks woven between chapters gradually fill in the gaps.

Aside from the rocky start, I am wading through a constant brain fog with the vast cast in the books. I honestly couldn't tell if some of them had already made cameos in the previous book or if they were new faces altogether, but it was tough to keep track of who was who. That’s probably why it took me so long to pick the book up again and actually finish it. I am just not a great reader when I’m confused.

From here on out, I wouldn't say this book ticks all the boxes for what I usually look for in a good brother's best friend book, but I am still happy with how it turned out. It does not offer me all the tensions and forbidden romance narrative I expected since Eli seemed completely unfazed by Maya and Conor’s relationship despite the age gap. I was not feeling that edge-of-my-seat anticipation on that front, but I did appreciate the more mature direction the story decided to take, giving the trope a fresh, grounded feel.

Maya and Conor emerge as beautifully complex characters whose electric dynamic forms the soul of this story. Maya's razor-sharp wit and unapologetic teasing serve as the perfect counterpoint to Conor's restrained, occasionally infuriating reserve. Their chemistry crackles through every interaction - I couldn't get enough reading typically composed Conor unravel at Maya's provocations, while she fearlessly chips away at his defenses.

While I don't have strong feelings about age gap romance either way, the brilliance of Maya and Conor’s relationship lies in how it transforms the trope into a thoughtful exploration of intimacy. Maya isn’t reduced to a naive ingénue, and Conor isn’t cast as a predatory stereotype. It is unyielding because they have built something far more meaningful; a partnership where respect, not years lived, becomes the measure of equality. And truly, that is where the story shines. However, I wish the entire conflict wasn't so repetitive—it gets exhausting. Hazelwood seems to favor this approach, as seen in her other works too. The point gets across; you don’t need to hammer it in every two chapters!

Nevertheless, I was also pleasantly surprised by how tastefully the intimate scenes were written; a stark contrast to the discomfort I usually feel when reading them in Hazelwood’s other books. Now the only reason I didn't rate this higher than it should aside from the repetitiveness is because
i) the external drama early in the story didn't quite land for me; never liked other woman farce
ii) the book never quite gave me those breathless, giddy butterflies that my favorite four-star romances consistently deliver


All told, in a genre that often reduces age gaps to fantasy or moral failing, Maya and Conor's journey stands out for treating love as complicated, personal, and ultimately definable only by those living it. I wished we get more of them and would love to revisit through future appearances like other Hazelwood's characters do. And perhaps, they are making their way to the top of my favorite Hazelwood's couple!! (ps: you're no longer safe @ Olive x Adam/Misery x Lowe)
]]> <![CDATA[The Tea Dragon Tapestry (Tea Dragon, #3)]]> 53534476
Over a year after being entrusted with Ginseng's care, Greta still can't chase away the cloud of mourning that hangs over the timid Tea Dragon. As she struggles to create something spectacular enough to impress a master blacksmith in search of an apprentice, she questions the true meaning of crafting, and the true meaning of caring for someone in grief.

Meanwhile, Minette receives a surprise package from the monastery where she was once training to be a prophetess. Thrown into confusion about her path in life, the shy and reserved Minette finds that the more she opens her heart to others, the more clearly she can see what was always inside.

Told with the same care and charm as the previous installments of the Tea Dragon series, The Tea Dragon Tapestry welcomes old friends and new into a heartfelt story of purpose, love, and growth.]]> 137 Kay O'Neill 1620107953 aly 4
“... But sad people aren't objects to fix. Give them space and show them you'll still love them whenever they are ready to be loved.”


What another charming work by Kay O'Neill! Everything from the illustrations to the plot are beatific and delightful. I truly enjoy the friendship and family dynamic, assimilating a heartfelt story of love and growth. This book has been nothing but such a comfort through tough times.

I'm so glad to stumble upon the series and will definitely recommend this to everyone <3]]> 4.52 2021 The Tea Dragon Tapestry (Tea Dragon, #3)
author: Kay O'Neill
name: aly
average rating: 4.52
book published: 2021
rating: 4
read at: 2021/07/18
date added: 2025/06/21
shelves:
review:
“... But sad people aren't objects to fix. Give them space and show them you'll still love them whenever they are ready to be loved.”


What another charming work by Kay O'Neill! Everything from the illustrations to the plot are beatific and delightful. I truly enjoy the friendship and family dynamic, assimilating a heartfelt story of love and growth. This book has been nothing but such a comfort through tough times.

I'm so glad to stumble upon the series and will definitely recommend this to everyone <3
]]> Grown Ups 55878539 mother, and her entire family.

Exhilarating, funny, and unexpectedly devastating, Grown Ups gets up close and personal with a dysfunctional modern family.]]> 160 Marie Aubert 178227653X aly 2
Grown Ups follows lonely architect Ida as she travels to her family's fjord side summer cabin. However, this book centred around the struggle of fertility along with the question of what it takes to grow up. Unfortunately, I do not see the correlation of what the book was trying to deliver with one stuck up, narcissistic character.

Ida is a manipulative, egoistical and impeccable homewrecker. She seeks to destroy whatever happiness that those around her are clinging to, which is rather sadistic. This book evokes all the rages I didn't know had in me. Despite the message forth, I couldn't feel sympathetic to both the sisters' situations as they were written apathetically. Ida doesn't even come close to being a morally grey character because she is just unequivocally horrible.

I also failed to see how the ending is supposed to resolve whatever that's going on between the noxious family; Ida is still awful, Mathe is uncharitable, and the Mother — well, like two peas in a pod. In a way, it almost felt brilliant, to leave readers to ponder as the characters was not offer any growth or development. However, as a character driven reader, this book does not resonate with me.

Love the cover though but this book needs its strong soldiers and I ain't one.]]> 3.39 2019 Grown Ups
author: Marie Aubert
name: aly
average rating: 3.39
book published: 2019
rating: 2
read at: 2021/10/26
date added: 2025/06/21
shelves:
review:
I've wanted to read this book for quite some time since I often ventured into Korean or Japanese literature books. Hence why I'm intrigued by this one as this will be my first foray into Norwegian literature.

Grown Ups follows lonely architect Ida as she travels to her family's fjord side summer cabin. However, this book centred around the struggle of fertility along with the question of what it takes to grow up. Unfortunately, I do not see the correlation of what the book was trying to deliver with one stuck up, narcissistic character.

Ida is a manipulative, egoistical and impeccable homewrecker. She seeks to destroy whatever happiness that those around her are clinging to, which is rather sadistic. This book evokes all the rages I didn't know had in me. Despite the message forth, I couldn't feel sympathetic to both the sisters' situations as they were written apathetically. Ida doesn't even come close to being a morally grey character because she is just unequivocally horrible.

I also failed to see how the ending is supposed to resolve whatever that's going on between the noxious family; Ida is still awful, Mathe is uncharitable, and the Mother — well, like two peas in a pod. In a way, it almost felt brilliant, to leave readers to ponder as the characters was not offer any growth or development. However, as a character driven reader, this book does not resonate with me.

Love the cover though but this book needs its strong soldiers and I ain't one.
]]> <![CDATA[Pupposites Attract, Vol. 1 (Pupposites Attract, #1)]]> 202952346 A fluffy, feel-good romance manga for dog lovers! Chiharu enjoys every day with her sweetie of a Rottweiler, who probably weighs as much as she does. Meanwhile, Kiyotaka can't get enough of his fluffy Pomeranian, who barely comes up to his knees. When these two mismatched pairs chance upon each other at the park, they're like oil and water. But, after enough chance meetings, could this turn into an unlikely friendship, or something more?

Chiharu's bold personality in a petite frame strikes a contrast in every way to her scaredy-cat Rottweiler Tsubu-chan--and the same could be said for the sturdy but shy Kiyotaka and his outgoing Pomeranian, Monjuro. Yet, for these inseparable pairs, their long walks together are the highlights of the day. One encounter leads to another, and before long, these two unusual duos find their feelings changing...

Pupposites Attract is a comforting manga for pet lovers about finding joy in the unexpected, and the importance of bonds with both four-legged companions and two-legged ones alike. Perfect for fans of A Man and His Cat and Lovely Muco.]]> 160 Hono Natsuna aly 0 to-read 4.11 2024 Pupposites Attract, Vol. 1 (Pupposites Attract, #1)
author: Hono Natsuna
name: aly
average rating: 4.11
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/06/20
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> Strange Pictures 216670080 The spine-tingling bestseller that has taken Japan by storm—an eerie fresh take on horror for fans of Hidden Pictures and Junji Ito, in which a series of seemingly innocent pictures draws you into a disturbing web of unsolved mysteries and shattered psyches.

An exploration of the macabre, where the seemingly mundane takes on a terrifying significance. . . .

A pregnant woman's sketches on a seemingly innocuous blog conceal a chilling warning.

A child's picture of his home contains a dark secret message.

A sketch made by a murder victim in his final moments leads an amateur sleuth down a rabbithole that will reveal a horrifying reality.

Structured around these nine childlike drawings, each holding a disturbing clue, Uketsu invites readers to piece together the mystery behind each and the over-arching backstory that connects them all. Strange Pictures is the internationally bestselling debut from mystery horror YouTube sensation Uketsu—an enigmatic masked figure who has become one of Japan's most talked about contemporary authors.]]> 236 Uketsu 0063433087 aly 4
Strange Pictures by Uketsu, who is an anonymous author, are the perfect canvas for a mystery as this novel masterfully blends suspense, psychological intrigue, and visual storytelling. This book presents a fascinating and intricate mystery — one that could easily become convoluted, but the author’s thoughtful use of illustrations, timelines, and clarifications ensures that readers never lose their way.

This novel unfolds around the theme of a strange picture, with various incidents seemingly independent at first, yet they come together seamlessly as the plot progresses. The deep insights based on these images, along with unexpected twists, create a thrilling experience that keeps you on the edge of your seat. I know I could not stop turning those pages.

I also found the mystery to be revealed at a good pace, and in a perfect cycle. For readers who enjoy solving mysteries, this book is a great choice. It has a slight horror element—subtle, creepy, yet more focused on suspense than pure terror. The dying message, tied to the strange picture, is masterfully intricate, to the point where it feels like no one could ever truly understand it. The connections between the characters and the way their dramatic lives intertwine are both impressive and chilling.

What stands out most is the cathartic experience of the final chapter, where everything finally falls into place. The picture, once perplexing, becomes clear, offering a moment of revelation. I thought I was too slow to figure things out at first, but in the end, you'll just know that everything was purposefully told the way it is. The Prologue’s significance is fully revealed, and the identity it hinted at becomes apparent as all the pieces come together.

It’s hard to say much more without giving away spoilers, as the true thrill lies in experiencing the mystery unfold and feeling the exhilaration when the puzzle finally clicks. The author’s skill in weaving everything into a cohesive and satisfying conclusion is truly remarkable, and I was captivated from start to finish.]]> 4.03 2022 Strange Pictures
author: Uketsu
name: aly
average rating: 4.03
book published: 2022
rating: 4
read at: 2025/01/19
date added: 2025/06/20
shelves:
review:
Two words: Utterly blown.

Strange Pictures by Uketsu, who is an anonymous author, are the perfect canvas for a mystery as this novel masterfully blends suspense, psychological intrigue, and visual storytelling. This book presents a fascinating and intricate mystery — one that could easily become convoluted, but the author’s thoughtful use of illustrations, timelines, and clarifications ensures that readers never lose their way.

This novel unfolds around the theme of a strange picture, with various incidents seemingly independent at first, yet they come together seamlessly as the plot progresses. The deep insights based on these images, along with unexpected twists, create a thrilling experience that keeps you on the edge of your seat. I know I could not stop turning those pages.

I also found the mystery to be revealed at a good pace, and in a perfect cycle. For readers who enjoy solving mysteries, this book is a great choice. It has a slight horror element—subtle, creepy, yet more focused on suspense than pure terror. The dying message, tied to the strange picture, is masterfully intricate, to the point where it feels like no one could ever truly understand it. The connections between the characters and the way their dramatic lives intertwine are both impressive and chilling.

What stands out most is the cathartic experience of the final chapter, where everything finally falls into place. The picture, once perplexing, becomes clear, offering a moment of revelation. I thought I was too slow to figure things out at first, but in the end, you'll just know that everything was purposefully told the way it is. The Prologue’s significance is fully revealed, and the identity it hinted at becomes apparent as all the pieces come together.

It’s hard to say much more without giving away spoilers, as the true thrill lies in experiencing the mystery unfold and feeling the exhilaration when the puzzle finally clicks. The author’s skill in weaving everything into a cohesive and satisfying conclusion is truly remarkable, and I was captivated from start to finish.
]]> <![CDATA[Aurora's End (The Aurora Cycle, #3)]]> 40516976 The squad you love is out of time. Prepare for the thrilling finale in the epic, best-selling Aurora Cycle series about a band of unlikely heroes who just might be the galaxy's last hope for survival.

Is this the end?
What happens when you ask a bunch of losers, discipline cases, and misfits to save the galaxy from an ancient evil? The ancient evil wins, of course.
Wait. . . . Not. So. Fast.
When we last saw Squad 312, they were working together seamlessly (aka, freaking out) as an intergalactic battle raged and an ancient superweapon threatened to obliterate Earth. Everything went horribly wrong, naturally.
But as it turns out, not all endings are endings, and the team has one last chance to rewrite theirs. Maybe two. It's complicated.
Cue Zila, Fin, and Scarlett (and MAGELLAN!): making friends, making enemies, and making history? Sure, no problem.
Cue Tyler, Kal, and Auri: uniting with two of the galaxy’s most hated villains? Um, okay. That, too.
Actually saving the galaxy, though?
Now that will take a miracle.]]> 496 Amie Kaufman 1524720887 aly 3
Plot wise, this book is disappointing but will form my thoughts and see where this book ended up standing. RTC

~~~
Pre-Reading Review:

FINIAN IN THE BOOK COVER? AS HE DESERVED??!!]]> 4.19 2021 Aurora's End (The Aurora Cycle, #3)
author: Amie Kaufman
name: aly
average rating: 4.19
book published: 2021
rating: 3
read at: 2021/11/20
date added: 2025/06/20
shelves:
review:
The penurious in me really wanted to settle for two stars but Squad 312 deserves better.

Plot wise, this book is disappointing but will form my thoughts and see where this book ended up standing. RTC

~~~
Pre-Reading Review:

FINIAN IN THE BOOK COVER? AS HE DESERVED??!!
]]> <![CDATA[The Perfect First (Fulton U, #1)]]> 43802284 “How long do you last in bed?” Those were her first words to me, swiftly followed up with, “And how big would you say you are?”

Persephone Alexander. Math genius. Lover of blazers. The only girl I know who can make Heidi braids look sexy as hell. And she’s on a mission. Lose her virginity by the end of the semester.

I walked in on her interview session for potential candidates (who even does that?) and saw straight through her brave front. She’s got a list of Firsts to accomplish like she’s only got months to live. I’ve decided to be her guide for all her firsts except one. Someone’s got to keep her out of trouble. I have one rule, no sex. We even shook on it.

I’ll help her find the right guy for the job. Someone like her doesn’t need someone like me and my massive...baggage for her first time.

Drinking at a bar. Check.

Partying all night. Double check.

Skinny dipping. Triple check.

She’s unlike anyone I’ve ever met. The walls I’d put up around my heart are slowly crumbling with each touch that sets fire to my soul.

I’m the first to bend the rules. One electrifying kiss changes everything and suddenly I don’t want to be her first, I want to be her only. But her plan was written before I came onto the scene and now I’m determined to get her to re-write her future with me.]]> 342 Maya Hughes aly 3
I actually kind of like them better than Hannah and Garret (I know, it's hard not to compare this to the Off-Campus series) but the second half (the part where they're together) didn't win me as much :( I love the chase and the pining part more eheks.

Also, I kind of love Nix so, pretty excited for his book ]]> 3.84 2019 The Perfect First (Fulton U, #1)
author: Maya Hughes
name: aly
average rating: 3.84
book published: 2019
rating: 3
read at: 2022/05/28
date added: 2025/06/20
shelves:
review:
I find this book a bit lacking, probably in terms of plot development because the shift to solely romance felt sudden (not that I am complaining) but it is still enjoyable and adorable.

I actually kind of like them better than Hannah and Garret (I know, it's hard not to compare this to the Off-Campus series) but the second half (the part where they're together) didn't win me as much :( I love the chase and the pining part more eheks.

Also, I kind of love Nix so, pretty excited for his book
]]> <![CDATA[King of Battle and Blood (Adrian x Isolde, #1)]]> 56651967
Isolde de Lara considers her wedding day her death day. To end a years-long war, she is to marry vampire king, Adrian Aleksandr Vasiliev, and kill him.

But her assassination attempt is thwarted and Adrian threatens that if Isolde tries to kill him again, he will raise her as the undead. Faced with the possibility of becoming the thing she hates most, Isolde seeks other ways to defy him and survive the brutal vampire court.

Except it isn’t the court she fears most — it’s Adrian. Despite their undeniable chemistry, she wonders why the king — fierce, savage, merciless — chose her as consort.

The answer will shatter her world.]]> 391 Scarlett St. Clair aly 3
"History is just a perspective. It changes depending on your side"
Considering that I'm not a big fan of the author's previous works, I really delve into this with zero expectation. A surprise it was when I found myself feeling okay as I read further, though a few things still irked me. But let me be fair in my review by starting with what I enjoy and like first.

If I were to compare it to her Hades & Persephone books, King of Battle and Blood was written competently. I liked that it was such a fast-paced and easy reading. Clair came out with a political conflict in the worldbuilding which made it all enthralling. Bonus point — because as far as I am not concerned, there were no typing/spelling/grammar errors like how it used to be so apparent in her previous books. I'm not a grammar nazi, I just expected better from an author who is publishing their books that I paid for it. Everything is finally falling into place.

Then, we have all these mysterious creeps surrounding the book with the crimson mist to the orange-haired woman on the mirror; which I liked how it seeks adventure and answers as we go on despite the book being a paranormal romance. Although, it was a bit dismay at how the truth is not in the balance so you don't have to spark your inner Sherlock to spot the elephant in the room. All the same, I enjoyed it still because I am an absolute rampage for [spoilers removed] trope. There's just something melancholic and beautiful about being separated from your true loves and reunited lifetime after lifetime; because who doesn't love pain. Well, at least that was the expectation right?

However, I hardly feel that sense of connection between Adrian and Isolde since they were not given the delicate build-up for their romance. And it does not help that Isolde is feeling horny all the freaking time and everything was just so rushed and insta-lust. Wait, did I say I set off with zero expectation? Well, I take that back. I very much expected the vampire porn this book has to deliver (why else do you think I'm reading this?) but if that's really the case, then everyone can just watch one on pornhub or something. But we still opt for those inks between pages because we need the plot, the emotional development as well as character growth! But Adrian and Isolde are not even working for their love which is quite vexing. Where's the angst that the audience asked for?

Another thing that got me popping my vein is this branding that Clair had for coming up with the most condescending, crude heroines. EVERY. SINGLE. TIME. Do you hate women so bad as to pit me against all these female characters ceaselessly? I hate to give all the encomium to a man that hardly exists in the real world today so WHY? No, cause I get the hidden message forth; women empowerment, strength, knowledge versus ignorance, war, and sacrifice, yada yada.

But despite that, Isolde is one overbearing, pretentious, and annoying heroine instead; it's hard to empathize with her. I'll cut the slack if this is some YAs but that's barely the case. Isolde is a 26 years old grown-up who is set to be a queen mind you — but acted merely off her assumptions and emotions. Incidentally, she's also that person who likes to speak when needn't ask to or do so for the sake of hurting the other party. Like, place a bet with me how long her kingdom would last this way. And I know I am not nitpicking, Adrian pointed it out and Isolde realized it.

"You make many presumptions, wife" — no shit, Sherlock.
"Fine" I said feeling silly"
"I had been insensitive" — [also me: pretended to be shocked].

Please don't talk about character development because it's hardly so till the end and I am tired of excusing asshole people by discarding it as "their personality and that people are different." Because oh yeah? That still doesn't give you the license to be rude.

This book hinted a bit at the feminist message but Isolde has been tearing other women down and being such a bully instead of doing the opposite. And that's so much on creating a "badass heroine" (please don't). I get if we were talking about antagonists, I hate Killian and Nadia but who cares about them. If they're the villain the author made to be, let them be. But a heroine who's set to reign? Spare me from being a citizen.

Anyhow, two things I wanted to point out though it's neither on my good nor bad side is — i) the representation in this book. We have POCs and queer characters which I extol for the diversity. But then, I can't help to feel that it's didactic. Meh, not a big deal though.

Then — ii) this book suffered from having a massive cast, I was a little jumbled on trying to remember who’s who. Especially all these lords in the council. Best bet, I'll have no memory of these characters' existence in the next book.

You can serve me a crappy plot, but characters who aren't flattering can be a major undoing. I very much bargain for a rage; coming from this author which is why it isn't as bad compared to if this was your first time with Clair's work. I can see why it's not working out for some readers. It worked well for the physical aspect but failed to persuade me of the deeper connection. Fix Isolde's attitude, and this book may be in the cards for me. Anyways, expecting better things in the second one (only doing this for Adrian).]]> 3.65 2021 King of Battle and Blood (Adrian x Isolde, #1)
author: Scarlett St. Clair
name: aly
average rating: 3.65
book published: 2021
rating: 3
read at: 2022/01/30
date added: 2025/06/19
shelves:
review:
"History is just a perspective. It changes depending on your side"
Considering that I'm not a big fan of the author's previous works, I really delve into this with zero expectation. A surprise it was when I found myself feeling okay as I read further, though a few things still irked me. But let me be fair in my review by starting with what I enjoy and like first.

If I were to compare it to her Hades & Persephone books, King of Battle and Blood was written competently. I liked that it was such a fast-paced and easy reading. Clair came out with a political conflict in the worldbuilding which made it all enthralling. Bonus point — because as far as I am not concerned, there were no typing/spelling/grammar errors like how it used to be so apparent in her previous books. I'm not a grammar nazi, I just expected better from an author who is publishing their books that I paid for it. Everything is finally falling into place.

Then, we have all these mysterious creeps surrounding the book with the crimson mist to the orange-haired woman on the mirror; which I liked how it seeks adventure and answers as we go on despite the book being a paranormal romance. Although, it was a bit dismay at how the truth is not in the balance so you don't have to spark your inner Sherlock to spot the elephant in the room. All the same, I enjoyed it still because I am an absolute rampage for [spoilers removed] trope. There's just something melancholic and beautiful about being separated from your true loves and reunited lifetime after lifetime; because who doesn't love pain. Well, at least that was the expectation right?

However, I hardly feel that sense of connection between Adrian and Isolde since they were not given the delicate build-up for their romance. And it does not help that Isolde is feeling horny all the freaking time and everything was just so rushed and insta-lust. Wait, did I say I set off with zero expectation? Well, I take that back. I very much expected the vampire porn this book has to deliver (why else do you think I'm reading this?) but if that's really the case, then everyone can just watch one on pornhub or something. But we still opt for those inks between pages because we need the plot, the emotional development as well as character growth! But Adrian and Isolde are not even working for their love which is quite vexing. Where's the angst that the audience asked for?

Another thing that got me popping my vein is this branding that Clair had for coming up with the most condescending, crude heroines. EVERY. SINGLE. TIME. Do you hate women so bad as to pit me against all these female characters ceaselessly? I hate to give all the encomium to a man that hardly exists in the real world today so WHY? No, cause I get the hidden message forth; women empowerment, strength, knowledge versus ignorance, war, and sacrifice, yada yada.

But despite that, Isolde is one overbearing, pretentious, and annoying heroine instead; it's hard to empathize with her. I'll cut the slack if this is some YAs but that's barely the case. Isolde is a 26 years old grown-up who is set to be a queen mind you — but acted merely off her assumptions and emotions. Incidentally, she's also that person who likes to speak when needn't ask to or do so for the sake of hurting the other party. Like, place a bet with me how long her kingdom would last this way. And I know I am not nitpicking, Adrian pointed it out and Isolde realized it.

"You make many presumptions, wife" — no shit, Sherlock.
"Fine" I said feeling silly"
"I had been insensitive" — [also me: pretended to be shocked].

Please don't talk about character development because it's hardly so till the end and I am tired of excusing asshole people by discarding it as "their personality and that people are different." Because oh yeah? That still doesn't give you the license to be rude.

This book hinted a bit at the feminist message but Isolde has been tearing other women down and being such a bully instead of doing the opposite. And that's so much on creating a "badass heroine" (please don't). I get if we were talking about antagonists, I hate Killian and Nadia but who cares about them. If they're the villain the author made to be, let them be. But a heroine who's set to reign? Spare me from being a citizen.

Anyhow, two things I wanted to point out though it's neither on my good nor bad side is — i) the representation in this book. We have POCs and queer characters which I extol for the diversity. But then, I can't help to feel that it's didactic. Meh, not a big deal though.

Then — ii) this book suffered from having a massive cast, I was a little jumbled on trying to remember who’s who. Especially all these lords in the council. Best bet, I'll have no memory of these characters' existence in the next book.

You can serve me a crappy plot, but characters who aren't flattering can be a major undoing. I very much bargain for a rage; coming from this author which is why it isn't as bad compared to if this was your first time with Clair's work. I can see why it's not working out for some readers. It worked well for the physical aspect but failed to persuade me of the deeper connection. Fix Isolde's attitude, and this book may be in the cards for me. Anyways, expecting better things in the second one (only doing this for Adrian).
]]> Five Tuesdays in Winter 57792442
Told in the intimate voices of unique and endearing characters of all ages, these tales explore desire and heartache, loss and discovery, moments of jolting violence and the inexorable tug toward love at all costs. A bookseller's unspoken love for his employee rises to the surface, a neglected teenage boy finds much-needed nurturing from an unlikely pair of college students hired to housesit, a girl's loss of innocence at the hands of her employer's son becomes a catalyst for strength and confidence, and a proud nonagenarian rages helplessly in his granddaughter's hospital room. Romantic, hopeful, brutally raw, and unsparingly honest, some even slipping into the surreal, these stories are, above all, about King's enduring subject of love.]]> 205 Lily King 0802158773 aly 3
Truth to be told, this book is not really my favourite. I found it a bit challenging to finish it since the author went to a great length in conveying each character's daily interminable dread. It took a lot of mental capacity to comprehend everyone's stories. Not to mention, despite the tenderness, these anthologies are also dark, complex and fraught with drama.

Each of the story also came to a sudden finish with an open ending that often had little to do with the premise; it's bewildering. The author writes her book evocatively, yet is unengaging. However, the pleasant resolution to each of it is probably why I rated the book higher than intended.

All in all, I still didn't see how the stories in this book would relevant to this time but if you love literary fiction or short stories, I believe this book would be for you!]]> 3.95 2021 Five Tuesdays in Winter
author: Lily King
name: aly
average rating: 3.95
book published: 2021
rating: 3
read at: 2021/11/23
date added: 2025/06/17
shelves:
review:
Five Tuesdays in Winter is a collection of short pieces that cover a wide range of life stages, including love and loss, as well as the potency of stories to reach us in such a memorable way.

Truth to be told, this book is not really my favourite. I found it a bit challenging to finish it since the author went to a great length in conveying each character's daily interminable dread. It took a lot of mental capacity to comprehend everyone's stories. Not to mention, despite the tenderness, these anthologies are also dark, complex and fraught with drama.

Each of the story also came to a sudden finish with an open ending that often had little to do with the premise; it's bewildering. The author writes her book evocatively, yet is unengaging. However, the pleasant resolution to each of it is probably why I rated the book higher than intended.

All in all, I still didn't see how the stories in this book would relevant to this time but if you love literary fiction or short stories, I believe this book would be for you!
]]> My Mechanical Romance 58857822 Opposites attract in this nerdy YA romance from the NYT best-selling author of The Atlas Six!

A Mathical Book Prize Honor Book

"It’s rom-com perfection."—Adiba Jaigirdar, author of The Henna Wars

Bel doesn't want to think about the future. College apps? You’re funny. Extracurriculars? Not a chance. Joining a robotics club filled with boys who ignore her or--even worse--constantly ask if she needs help? Please, anything but that. But when she accidentally reveals a talent for engineering in class, she has no choice. Enter Mateo Luna, the handsome captain of the club.

Teo instantly recognizes Bel's talent. He needs her on the team. And not just because he can't stop thinking about the tiny dusting of freckles around her eyes, or how she got him hooked on Taylor Swift--it's because Bel sees him. She challenges him. But when they seriously start butting heads, Bel wonders: Is there really room for a girl like her in STEM?

In her YA debut, Alexene Farol Follmuth, author of The Atlas Six (under the penname Olivie Blake), explores both the challenges girls of color face in STEM and the vulnerability of first love with unfailing wit and honesty. Told from dual points of view, My Mechanical Romance is not only swoonworthy--it's downright empowering.

A Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection
A Georgia Peach Book Award for Teen Readers Nominee
A Massachusetts Teen Choice Book Award Nominee]]> 272 Alexene Farol Follmuth 0823450104 aly 5 (Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for the eARC copy in exchange for a review)

Beating that 'outgrowing YA' allegation as I presented you my first five stars read of the year!

I have to say the pun to have the title close to reminding you of your emo phrase is just something you wouldn't want to pass. I'm honestly not sure what I was expecting, but I've seen nothing but praises for this new try-out from Olivie Blake. It's safe to say, the book was delivered! Amid time constraints with no zest to read, this book is just what I needed.

When the author said they're writing STEM romance, this is exactly what I had in mind. Not just a character with a STEM background and proceed with the dunce-like love story. And I think what impresses me the most is how robotics or engineering is not my type of nerd and my least favorite field in STEM but there was not one time where I feel bored or clueless. In which to say, Follmuth/Blake had written the journey between Bel and Teo so compellingly.

The highlight on the challenges of being a female in a male-dominated field was such a good accost. This novel tackled a lot of serious issues including heavy family dynamics, but it was still lighthearted, romantic, and did not come off as preachy. I would understand if some people don't think of this as a great romance book sure, but sometimes a good book has to do more with what the reader needs at that given time in their life. Bel and Teo just reminded me of how young love can be gullible yet thrilling.

Incidentally, their character development is also something I reveled in. Bel's indecisiveness about herself, her abilities, right down to her glistening fashion was such a fun thing to read. It prompts me of the time my peers had things figured out while I was still obsessing over BTS and had no idea what to pursue. Meanwhile, Teo who despite having everything worked out, is a people pleaser that carried the pressure of being the team leader and the perfect son — which in all fairness, is not the kind that teenagers can withstand. Still, this propels the story forwards as we see them overcoming their struggles together.

Given the diverse characters, the sweet romance, and the high pressuring backdrop, I'd say this book has it all. Despite its flaws, it’s a pleasure to accompany Bel, Teo, and their physical and emotional journey. I love every single page of this book and I know I'm securing that copy for May 31st.]]> 3.84 2022 My Mechanical Romance
author: Alexene Farol Follmuth
name: aly
average rating: 3.84
book published: 2022
rating: 5
read at: 2022/03/22
date added: 2025/06/16
shelves:
review:
(Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for the eARC copy in exchange for a review)

Beating that 'outgrowing YA' allegation as I presented you my first five stars read of the year!

I have to say the pun to have the title close to reminding you of your emo phrase is just something you wouldn't want to pass. I'm honestly not sure what I was expecting, but I've seen nothing but praises for this new try-out from Olivie Blake. It's safe to say, the book was delivered! Amid time constraints with no zest to read, this book is just what I needed.

When the author said they're writing STEM romance, this is exactly what I had in mind. Not just a character with a STEM background and proceed with the dunce-like love story. And I think what impresses me the most is how robotics or engineering is not my type of nerd and my least favorite field in STEM but there was not one time where I feel bored or clueless. In which to say, Follmuth/Blake had written the journey between Bel and Teo so compellingly.

The highlight on the challenges of being a female in a male-dominated field was such a good accost. This novel tackled a lot of serious issues including heavy family dynamics, but it was still lighthearted, romantic, and did not come off as preachy. I would understand if some people don't think of this as a great romance book sure, but sometimes a good book has to do more with what the reader needs at that given time in their life. Bel and Teo just reminded me of how young love can be gullible yet thrilling.

Incidentally, their character development is also something I reveled in. Bel's indecisiveness about herself, her abilities, right down to her glistening fashion was such a fun thing to read. It prompts me of the time my peers had things figured out while I was still obsessing over BTS and had no idea what to pursue. Meanwhile, Teo who despite having everything worked out, is a people pleaser that carried the pressure of being the team leader and the perfect son — which in all fairness, is not the kind that teenagers can withstand. Still, this propels the story forwards as we see them overcoming their struggles together.

Given the diverse characters, the sweet romance, and the high pressuring backdrop, I'd say this book has it all. Despite its flaws, it’s a pleasure to accompany Bel, Teo, and their physical and emotional journey. I love every single page of this book and I know I'm securing that copy for May 31st.
]]> Love, Theoretically 61326735
Honestly, it’s a pretty sweet gig—until her carefully constructed Elsie-verse comes crashing down. Because Jack Smith, the annoyingly attractive and broody older brother of her favorite client, turns out to be the cold-hearted experimental physicist who ruined her mentor’s career and undermined the reputation of theorists everywhere. And that same Jack who now sits on the hiring committee at MIT, right between Elsie and her dream job.

Elsie is prepared for an all-out war of scholarly sabotage but…those long, penetrating looks? Not having to be anything other than her true self when she’s with him? Will falling into an experimentalist’s orbit finally tempt her to put her most guarded theories on love into practice?]]> 389 Ali Hazelwood 1408725797 aly 2 [Disclaimer: This is such a super long review because only Hazelwood manages to evoke the Anton Ego from Ratatouille in a spirit of 카지노싸이트 Reviewer in me]

After enduring a string of disappointments with Hazelwood's previous novellas and how quick cash-worthy her books have been, I sworn off to never pick up her work again... because what is the point if it just ended up with me being critical? I read romance for pure enjoyment, not to be reproving. Alas, as I thought this book had the nicest covers out of all, I'm just a weakling I was enticed enough to start as there was just something about that orange color cover, and I was delighted with the prospect that this book is not The Love Hypothesis 3.0.

In the realm of STEM romance, Penny Reid has always been the author I looked up to, and I overlooked a fact that if it is done right, (like how I enjoy TLH), Ali Hazelwood truly stands in a league of her own. I think one of the reasons why I did not rate this lower despite some annoyance I have with the character is because Hazelwood seamlessly translates her STEM expertise into the narrative. The palpable passion she infuses into the characters resonates, and I find joy in the lifelike energy that passionate characters bring to the story.

I've highlighted a few recurring elements in Hazelwood's work that have grated on my nerves before:
i) the unnecessary emphasis on the male character's physique (or the woman even)
ii) the mishandling of the miscommunication trope, which feels like a discredit
iii) the tendency for female characters to come across as presumptuous and excessively self-deprecating
iv) overuse of same plot

However, as I seamlessly immersed myself in the book, I had that glimmer of hope. It seemed Hazelwood might be evolving — no TLH 3.0, no relentless emphasis on muscular heroes, no miscommunication trope. Perhaps, just maybe, I'm in for a truly satisfying experience... or so I thought. The saying goes: Hazelwood is going to be Hazelwood, a girl with a raccoon profile abhorring on Hazelwood's work going to be a girl with a raccoon profile abhorring on Hazelwood's work.

I don't like being the Grinch, especially when so many people seem to enjoy this author, so we'll start this with some positive notes. While she loves infusing all the tropes I despise; she can write. It is always so easy to get yourself lost and feel jittery when it comes to her romance and this book is no exception. Her writing style may not indulge in extravagant, flowery immersion; yes, she is no Sylvia Plath or Jane Austen because Hazelwood maintains a simple and straightforward style. But surprisingly, this simplicity doesn't leave any gaps as it feels as complete as reading books with intricate, descriptive prose.

The inclusion of emails at the start of certain chapters is as well, a delightful touch; adding a unique flavor to the book. If she had a hypothesis form before in TLH, she showcased her creativity by using emails in this one. It's not only charming but also provides a glimpse into the challenges lecturers face. I can't help but feel a twinge of guilt now having to think of the excuses email I used to send mine lol (at least I never asked for extension).

Moving forward to our eye candy, dreamy Dr. Jonathan Smith-Turner who might have just won the battle of my fav male character of Hazelwood thus far. He is smart, emotionally intelligent, and may seem broody and intense at first glance but is sweet, patient, and has Elsie in his best interest. He sees through Elsie's facade, calling out on her bullshit, teaching her to practice honesty to live the burden of having to cater to everyone's expectations and literally, just someone you would find yourself swooning over.

Now, things will start to get bumpy here because while I thought Hazelwood had evolved, the little slips of her old habit of hard-to-die started to get evident. It triggered a domino effect, as I began to notice other minor irritations that take away the enjoyment of reading this as a whole and it oh so petite Elsie Hannaway may have to — in fact, carry the burden all alone.

It seems almost unwarranted since the book effectively explains Elsie's character and the roots of her people-pleasing tendencies. It's disheartening to harbor frustration toward someone shouldering the weight of such nature ingrained from her upbringing. All her actions are a result of it; making her experiences universally accessible for many readers as most of us navigated similar struggles. Regardless, to a certain extent, Elsie comes across as manipulative, and the frequent employment of self-deprecating humor or inner monologues seems contrived and insincere. Her character leans toward being a pushover, making it challenging for me to empathize or connect with her, ultimately creating a character I find difficult to endure.

Bearing no false witness, Hazelwood is also very advocate for being the queen of sustainability for her contribution in recycling her work pieces through and through. She seemed to be obsessed with presenting the idea that being a woman in STEM is a really difficult experience that requires a knight in shining armor. Addressing what is true is essential; however, she may choose to diverge and concentrate on writing empowering women in STEM fields. On contrary, this recurrent motif presents her characters as immature and far younger than their true ages, which not only reinforces unfavorable preconceptions but also undervalues their maturity. It becomes noticeable with Elsie's endless assumptions and her helplessness in being herself. I understand being presumptuous while keeping your thoughts to yourself, but it's another thing to be presumptuous and jab it to other people. We are not writing YA characters, Ms Hazelwood, these people are always pushing 30 yet have the mental capacity of 13-year-old teenagers. Get a grip!

Additionally, it feels like Hazelwood is stuck being an AO3 writer that some of the plot is not putting any puzzle to pieces and is based on just pure imagination. I mean it's fiction, you don't necessarily have to be entirely believable, but maybe some consideration should be taken so we could have a seamless mechanic of the plot.

First off, is this love, or is this insta love? Once again, Hazelwood ventures into the territory of book tropes that irk me (she certainly knows how to press those buttons). The chemistry between Jack and Elsie didn't echo strongly with me. While Jack is such swoon-worthy, their relationship doesn't seem to have as much emotional depth. This might be attributed to the fact that their love story doesn't have a solid foundation; it doesn't gradually build, avoiding the pitfalls of instant love. We barely witness their interactions before Elsie enters Jack's direct orbit at MIT. Jack calls out Elsie's behavior regularly, so his strong longing based on a few interactions doesn't seem congruent with his dislike of dishonesty which she often indulges in. Make it makes sense?? Consequently, the sudden turn of events feels unsatisfactory and everything feels like it escalated too fast for my liking. Getting married? Sir, you had like *counting fingers* probably THREE sex together, calm your horses. They have not even exchanged the I Love Yous benchmark.

For some reason, I've yet to grasp why, but Hazelwood's attempts at smut scenes have never been gratifying — those two seem to mix like oil and water. To some extent, I probably do. Her portrayal feels authentic, acknowledging that real intimacy is not as effortless as portrayed in books and movies. It's not always just taking off clothes, then BAAM! ✨making babies ✨However, the constant interjections of conversation or perhaps the excessive monologues in between hinder the emotional connection and keep it from striking a deep chord at the moment of intimacy.

If I have to give all the stars, it would be for Jack, while Elsie, or perhaps even Hazelwood herself, would receive fewer accolades. I feel like there was a potential to have me loving this book but potential remains hollow without honing one's skills, and it's evident Hazelwood isn't investing in that. After further contemplation, the recurrent use of similar main characters with identical physical traits and the repetition of a plotline involving a lord big muscle man 3000 pining for years after a brief encounter with a whimsical and immature woman suggests a lack of creativity. It appears as if Hazelwood anticipates the same minion fans to appreciate her work without introducing refreshing elements.

Heh, could not be me. Thank you, NEXT!]]> 4.07 2023 Love, Theoretically
author: Ali Hazelwood
name: aly
average rating: 4.07
book published: 2023
rating: 2
read at: 2024/01/15
date added: 2025/06/16
shelves:
review:
[Disclaimer: This is such a super long review because only Hazelwood manages to evoke the Anton Ego from Ratatouille in a spirit of 카지노싸이트 Reviewer in me]

After enduring a string of disappointments with Hazelwood's previous novellas and how quick cash-worthy her books have been, I sworn off to never pick up her work again... because what is the point if it just ended up with me being critical? I read romance for pure enjoyment, not to be reproving. Alas, as I thought this book had the nicest covers out of all, I'm just a weakling I was enticed enough to start as there was just something about that orange color cover, and I was delighted with the prospect that this book is not The Love Hypothesis 3.0.

In the realm of STEM romance, Penny Reid has always been the author I looked up to, and I overlooked a fact that if it is done right, (like how I enjoy TLH), Ali Hazelwood truly stands in a league of her own. I think one of the reasons why I did not rate this lower despite some annoyance I have with the character is because Hazelwood seamlessly translates her STEM expertise into the narrative. The palpable passion she infuses into the characters resonates, and I find joy in the lifelike energy that passionate characters bring to the story.

I've highlighted a few recurring elements in Hazelwood's work that have grated on my nerves before:
i) the unnecessary emphasis on the male character's physique (or the woman even)
ii) the mishandling of the miscommunication trope, which feels like a discredit
iii) the tendency for female characters to come across as presumptuous and excessively self-deprecating
iv) overuse of same plot

However, as I seamlessly immersed myself in the book, I had that glimmer of hope. It seemed Hazelwood might be evolving — no TLH 3.0, no relentless emphasis on muscular heroes, no miscommunication trope. Perhaps, just maybe, I'm in for a truly satisfying experience... or so I thought. The saying goes: Hazelwood is going to be Hazelwood, a girl with a raccoon profile abhorring on Hazelwood's work going to be a girl with a raccoon profile abhorring on Hazelwood's work.

I don't like being the Grinch, especially when so many people seem to enjoy this author, so we'll start this with some positive notes. While she loves infusing all the tropes I despise; she can write. It is always so easy to get yourself lost and feel jittery when it comes to her romance and this book is no exception. Her writing style may not indulge in extravagant, flowery immersion; yes, she is no Sylvia Plath or Jane Austen because Hazelwood maintains a simple and straightforward style. But surprisingly, this simplicity doesn't leave any gaps as it feels as complete as reading books with intricate, descriptive prose.

The inclusion of emails at the start of certain chapters is as well, a delightful touch; adding a unique flavor to the book. If she had a hypothesis form before in TLH, she showcased her creativity by using emails in this one. It's not only charming but also provides a glimpse into the challenges lecturers face. I can't help but feel a twinge of guilt now having to think of the excuses email I used to send mine lol (at least I never asked for extension).

Moving forward to our eye candy, dreamy Dr. Jonathan Smith-Turner who might have just won the battle of my fav male character of Hazelwood thus far. He is smart, emotionally intelligent, and may seem broody and intense at first glance but is sweet, patient, and has Elsie in his best interest. He sees through Elsie's facade, calling out on her bullshit, teaching her to practice honesty to live the burden of having to cater to everyone's expectations and literally, just someone you would find yourself swooning over.

Now, things will start to get bumpy here because while I thought Hazelwood had evolved, the little slips of her old habit of hard-to-die started to get evident. It triggered a domino effect, as I began to notice other minor irritations that take away the enjoyment of reading this as a whole and it oh so petite Elsie Hannaway may have to — in fact, carry the burden all alone.

It seems almost unwarranted since the book effectively explains Elsie's character and the roots of her people-pleasing tendencies. It's disheartening to harbor frustration toward someone shouldering the weight of such nature ingrained from her upbringing. All her actions are a result of it; making her experiences universally accessible for many readers as most of us navigated similar struggles. Regardless, to a certain extent, Elsie comes across as manipulative, and the frequent employment of self-deprecating humor or inner monologues seems contrived and insincere. Her character leans toward being a pushover, making it challenging for me to empathize or connect with her, ultimately creating a character I find difficult to endure.

Bearing no false witness, Hazelwood is also very advocate for being the queen of sustainability for her contribution in recycling her work pieces through and through. She seemed to be obsessed with presenting the idea that being a woman in STEM is a really difficult experience that requires a knight in shining armor. Addressing what is true is essential; however, she may choose to diverge and concentrate on writing empowering women in STEM fields. On contrary, this recurrent motif presents her characters as immature and far younger than their true ages, which not only reinforces unfavorable preconceptions but also undervalues their maturity. It becomes noticeable with Elsie's endless assumptions and her helplessness in being herself. I understand being presumptuous while keeping your thoughts to yourself, but it's another thing to be presumptuous and jab it to other people. We are not writing YA characters, Ms Hazelwood, these people are always pushing 30 yet have the mental capacity of 13-year-old teenagers. Get a grip!

Additionally, it feels like Hazelwood is stuck being an AO3 writer that some of the plot is not putting any puzzle to pieces and is based on just pure imagination. I mean it's fiction, you don't necessarily have to be entirely believable, but maybe some consideration should be taken so we could have a seamless mechanic of the plot.

First off, is this love, or is this insta love? Once again, Hazelwood ventures into the territory of book tropes that irk me (she certainly knows how to press those buttons). The chemistry between Jack and Elsie didn't echo strongly with me. While Jack is such swoon-worthy, their relationship doesn't seem to have as much emotional depth. This might be attributed to the fact that their love story doesn't have a solid foundation; it doesn't gradually build, avoiding the pitfalls of instant love. We barely witness their interactions before Elsie enters Jack's direct orbit at MIT. Jack calls out Elsie's behavior regularly, so his strong longing based on a few interactions doesn't seem congruent with his dislike of dishonesty which she often indulges in. Make it makes sense?? Consequently, the sudden turn of events feels unsatisfactory and everything feels like it escalated too fast for my liking. Getting married? Sir, you had like *counting fingers* probably THREE sex together, calm your horses. They have not even exchanged the I Love Yous benchmark.

For some reason, I've yet to grasp why, but Hazelwood's attempts at smut scenes have never been gratifying — those two seem to mix like oil and water. To some extent, I probably do. Her portrayal feels authentic, acknowledging that real intimacy is not as effortless as portrayed in books and movies. It's not always just taking off clothes, then BAAM! ✨making babies ✨However, the constant interjections of conversation or perhaps the excessive monologues in between hinder the emotional connection and keep it from striking a deep chord at the moment of intimacy.

If I have to give all the stars, it would be for Jack, while Elsie, or perhaps even Hazelwood herself, would receive fewer accolades. I feel like there was a potential to have me loving this book but potential remains hollow without honing one's skills, and it's evident Hazelwood isn't investing in that. After further contemplation, the recurrent use of similar main characters with identical physical traits and the repetition of a plotline involving a lord big muscle man 3000 pining for years after a brief encounter with a whimsical and immature woman suggests a lack of creativity. It appears as if Hazelwood anticipates the same minion fans to appreciate her work without introducing refreshing elements.

Heh, could not be me. Thank you, NEXT!
]]> <![CDATA[The Nanny Is Off Limits (The Off Limits Duet)]]> 223437615
Rowan Kincaid hasn’t dated in over a year.
Not since the mother of his children unexpectedly passed away leaving him to parent their three children alone.
Exhausted, overworked and feeling like he’s failing at every turn he’s desperate for help.
The help that shows up?
A gorgeous woman almost twenty years younger than him.
She’s compassionate and charming and the kids fall for her instantly.
And despite the fact that she should be off limits,
he falls for her too.]]> Q.B. Tyler aly 2 3.98 The Nanny Is Off Limits (The Off Limits Duet)
author: Q.B. Tyler
name: aly
average rating: 3.98
book published:
rating: 2
read at: 2025/06/16
date added: 2025/06/16
shelves:
review:

]]> Spy x Family, Vol. 2 55156540 200 Tatsuya Endo 1974722511 aly 5
This volume pivots more on Anya enrolling in her new school at Eden Academy with a relative family dynamic that I truly avail myself of this progress. You can see Loid still strung as ever over his Operation Strix, but little by little developing a soft spot for Anya. The same goes for Yor, as she started to spend more time with Anya, having a mother-daughter bond that got me gobbled up for how adorable this volume is!

My favorite would be on Anya adjusting herself at her new school, making new friends, enemies, while also trying to impress her new family. It was entertaining to see how all of them are still adjusting to fit their role in their very own way; like Loid and his spy-mind and Yor with her murderous thought that left Anya baffled all the time.

As much as there was no big leap in the character development, and some things seem to be ridiculous not to notice, this manga is still humorous as ever. I believe, little by little we'll be able to note a burgeoning in their persona, seeing that we had lots of new additional characters as well.

Overall, this series remains entertaining and holistic to me. And to no one's surprise, I'm loving Anya more than I did! I couldn't wait to see the progress between Loid and Yor next in dismantling their phony relationship now that we have someone else visiting ]]> 4.57 2019 Spy x Family, Vol. 2
author: Tatsuya Endo
name: aly
average rating: 4.57
book published: 2019
rating: 5
read at: 2022/04/14
date added: 2025/06/16
shelves:
review:
Yup, we're back with the next mission and I am yet again blown away by my odd wholesome family. Let me tell you again if you did not catch me the first time: if you enjoy political drama, spy thrillers, gorgeous action scenes, wholesome comedy, and sweet family drama, you'll love Spy x Family. Whatever angle you look at it from, this is a perfect shonen manga.

This volume pivots more on Anya enrolling in her new school at Eden Academy with a relative family dynamic that I truly avail myself of this progress. You can see Loid still strung as ever over his Operation Strix, but little by little developing a soft spot for Anya. The same goes for Yor, as she started to spend more time with Anya, having a mother-daughter bond that got me gobbled up for how adorable this volume is!

My favorite would be on Anya adjusting herself at her new school, making new friends, enemies, while also trying to impress her new family. It was entertaining to see how all of them are still adjusting to fit their role in their very own way; like Loid and his spy-mind and Yor with her murderous thought that left Anya baffled all the time.

As much as there was no big leap in the character development, and some things seem to be ridiculous not to notice, this manga is still humorous as ever. I believe, little by little we'll be able to note a burgeoning in their persona, seeing that we had lots of new additional characters as well.

Overall, this series remains entertaining and holistic to me. And to no one's surprise, I'm loving Anya more than I did! I couldn't wait to see the progress between Loid and Yor next in dismantling their phony relationship now that we have someone else visiting
]]> The Story of a Single Woman 215808086 A piercingly beautiful and candid novel of love, sex and independence in 1920s Japan by a trailblazing Japanese writer.

She left her home, just a girl, determined to live alone. But wasn’t this the very life her late father had most fervently forbidden?

As an older woman, Kazue looks back on her tumultuous younger years with piercing clarity. Growing up in a tiny Japanese mountain village at the start of the twentieth century, her life was shadowed by the demands and expectations of her troubled, alcoholic father. While she is still a young teenager, her family arranges for her to marry an older cousin; Kazue stays with the boy for only ten days before returning home alone.

This is the beginning of a life of questing independence, which will see Kazue forced to leave her home at eighteen following a love affair, going first to Korea and then to Tokyo. Driven by her impulses and an indomitable spirit of hope, Kazue moves from one relationship to another, hungry for experience. As her sense of identity and voice grows, she takes to writing as a means to live a life on her own terms.

Candidly told and full of stunning imagery, The Story of a Single Woman is an autobiographical novel by one of Japan’s most significant 20th-century writers, a trailblazer who lived and wrote like no-one else.]]> 160 Uno Chiyo 1805332317 aly 4 (Thank you Netgalley for providing me with an eARC in exchange for a review)

This autobiographical work of Chiyo Uno is an intricate journey into many domains of the author's experiences, which were marked by painful relations, including four marriages and divorces. Written in her 70s, the manuscript chronicles the author's suppressed rage, bitterness, conflict with her ex-husbands, thus giving voice, out of a context of almost cold detachment. The stark writing style and unemotional way through which these feelings are depicted gives the novel a severely beautiful quality stampeding with power, one that some readers may find disturbing, while others will find overtly distant.

Interspersed throughout are several of the themes encompassing love, regret, and self-awareness; which are heavily nuanced by the shifts in the protagonist's perception of marriage— expressing both a desire to avoid it at one point and an obsessive addiction to it at another—contributing to a sense of psychological dissonance. While the novel effectively captures the internal conflict and emotional nuances of the protagonist, the heavy use of irony and the sense of detachment can feel intrusive to some readers, especially when the author seems to demand empathy for actions that may appear selfish or contradictory.

Over and above that, the novel offers a fascinating exploration of human behavior, especially in the way the protagonist engages in actions that seem almost unbelievable; such as showing up at an ex-lover’s house with a knife or abandoning her husband to start anew in Tokyo. These events are daring and force the reader to reconsider the nature of passion and self-destructive tendencies. There’s a notable tension between the protagonist's actions and her ability to grasp the emotions of others, especially her lovers and mother-in-law, which adds layers of complexity to her character. This remarkable sensitivity contrasts with her often cold, almost clinical writing, and invites readers to question their own responses to such behavior.

However, there’s a downside for those who may not appreciate the protagonist’s constant self-analysis and the author’s tone of forced introspection. The book often feels like it invites sympathy for the protagonist's struggles without offering room for readers to form their own conclusions. This can feel grating for those who prefer a more emotionally open or vulnerable narrative. For instance, I don't particularly agree with the author promiscuous way, not because simply that she is a woman but for who she has affected with this behavior. However, that is what draws compassion for the author on me, and I’d actually think less of it if you couldn’t enjoy it as I totally understand why that might be the case.

Ultimately, the novel’s style and content will resonate with readers interested in a deeply introspective, and at times unsettling, exploration of the complexities of love, regret, and the search for self-understanding. For others, the lack of emotional expression and the self-absorbed tone might make it an alienating experience. I on the other hand, actually quite enjoy with how the story was told.]]> 3.38 1972 The Story of a Single Woman
author: Uno Chiyo
name: aly
average rating: 3.38
book published: 1972
rating: 4
read at: 2025/01/30
date added: 2025/06/16
shelves:
review:
(Thank you Netgalley for providing me with an eARC in exchange for a review)

This autobiographical work of Chiyo Uno is an intricate journey into many domains of the author's experiences, which were marked by painful relations, including four marriages and divorces. Written in her 70s, the manuscript chronicles the author's suppressed rage, bitterness, conflict with her ex-husbands, thus giving voice, out of a context of almost cold detachment. The stark writing style and unemotional way through which these feelings are depicted gives the novel a severely beautiful quality stampeding with power, one that some readers may find disturbing, while others will find overtly distant.

Interspersed throughout are several of the themes encompassing love, regret, and self-awareness; which are heavily nuanced by the shifts in the protagonist's perception of marriage— expressing both a desire to avoid it at one point and an obsessive addiction to it at another—contributing to a sense of psychological dissonance. While the novel effectively captures the internal conflict and emotional nuances of the protagonist, the heavy use of irony and the sense of detachment can feel intrusive to some readers, especially when the author seems to demand empathy for actions that may appear selfish or contradictory.

Over and above that, the novel offers a fascinating exploration of human behavior, especially in the way the protagonist engages in actions that seem almost unbelievable; such as showing up at an ex-lover’s house with a knife or abandoning her husband to start anew in Tokyo. These events are daring and force the reader to reconsider the nature of passion and self-destructive tendencies. There’s a notable tension between the protagonist's actions and her ability to grasp the emotions of others, especially her lovers and mother-in-law, which adds layers of complexity to her character. This remarkable sensitivity contrasts with her often cold, almost clinical writing, and invites readers to question their own responses to such behavior.

However, there’s a downside for those who may not appreciate the protagonist’s constant self-analysis and the author’s tone of forced introspection. The book often feels like it invites sympathy for the protagonist's struggles without offering room for readers to form their own conclusions. This can feel grating for those who prefer a more emotionally open or vulnerable narrative. For instance, I don't particularly agree with the author promiscuous way, not because simply that she is a woman but for who she has affected with this behavior. However, that is what draws compassion for the author on me, and I’d actually think less of it if you couldn’t enjoy it as I totally understand why that might be the case.

Ultimately, the novel’s style and content will resonate with readers interested in a deeply introspective, and at times unsettling, exploration of the complexities of love, regret, and the search for self-understanding. For others, the lack of emotional expression and the self-absorbed tone might make it an alienating experience. I on the other hand, actually quite enjoy with how the story was told.
]]> Hooked (Never After, #1) 58545703 From USA Today bestselling author Emily McIntire comes a dark and delicious fractured fairy tale reimagining of Peter Pan.

He wants revenge, but he wants her more…

James has always had one agenda: destroy his enemy, Peter Michaels. When Peter’s twenty-year-old daughter Wendy shows up in James’s bar, he sees his way in. Seduce the girl and use her for his revenge. It’s the perfect plan, until things in James’s organization begin to crumble. Suddenly, he has to find the traitor in his midst, and his plan for revenge gets murkier as James starts to see Wendy as more than just a pawn in his game.

Wendy has been cloistered away most of her life by her wealthy cold father, but a spontaneous night out with friends turns into an intense and addictive love affair with the dark and brooding James. As much as she knows James is dangerous, Wendy can’t seem to shake her desire for him. But as their relationship grows more heated and she learns more about the world he moves in, she finds herself unsure if she’s falling for the man known as James or the monster known as Hook.

Hooked is a dark contemporary romance and the first complete standalone in the Never After Series: A collection of fractured fairy tales where the villains get the happy ever after. It is not a literal retelling and not fantasy. Hooked features mature themes and content that may not be suitable for all audiences. Reader discretion is advised. For all content warnings, check the author's website. ]]> 312 Emily McIntire 173750832X aly 3
It's so ironic how this book literally got me HOOKED from the start (or I'm just romance deprived, there's no in between). Emily's writing drew me in and I love the new breath of life in all the characters. I am obsessed with Peterpan and so am I enthralled with how the author attributing the original Peterpan traits into her own but at the same time, giving us a total different personation. All these small details got me swooning and it what makes reading this amazing.

What's more is because this is a villain story and not your typical Peter and Wendy tale. The romance between Hook and Wendy is really in one's element with the innocent and bad boy narrative; which probably too popularized and mind-numbing at one point but Hooked is really up to my alley. If we were to see it on another point of view, this book might be your average mafia book (but that's not what I'm basing my judgement on), plus this one is still packed with drama and farsighted.

However, the three stars would probably have to do with the conflict on the second half of the book which was rather rushed and anti-climatic. Especially when Hooked couldn't put piece together of who the real traitor is despite being described as the smart and cunning one. Everything just comes in towards the end and finished hastily; some of the actions were very uncharacter of them due to the different build up.

I haven't read much Peterpan retellings to be coming to this conclusion but nevertheless, I'd say this is probably the best one I've come to read so far. Despite the rating, it couldn't be denied that Hooked is by far the most inventive and delectable modern-day retellings with Emily McIntire's naturally expressive and poignantly evocative writing style—just with a darker, savoury edge.]]> 3.78 2021 Hooked (Never After, #1)
author: Emily McIntire
name: aly
average rating: 3.78
book published: 2021
rating: 3
read at: 2021/11/02
date added: 2025/06/16
shelves:
review:
Let's be frank. You know this is a dark contemporary Peterpan retelling and you still choose to read this why? Because you're in for the hot romance and so am I.

It's so ironic how this book literally got me HOOKED from the start (or I'm just romance deprived, there's no in between). Emily's writing drew me in and I love the new breath of life in all the characters. I am obsessed with Peterpan and so am I enthralled with how the author attributing the original Peterpan traits into her own but at the same time, giving us a total different personation. All these small details got me swooning and it what makes reading this amazing.

What's more is because this is a villain story and not your typical Peter and Wendy tale. The romance between Hook and Wendy is really in one's element with the innocent and bad boy narrative; which probably too popularized and mind-numbing at one point but Hooked is really up to my alley. If we were to see it on another point of view, this book might be your average mafia book (but that's not what I'm basing my judgement on), plus this one is still packed with drama and farsighted.

However, the three stars would probably have to do with the conflict on the second half of the book which was rather rushed and anti-climatic. Especially when Hooked couldn't put piece together of who the real traitor is despite being described as the smart and cunning one. Everything just comes in towards the end and finished hastily; some of the actions were very uncharacter of them due to the different build up.

I haven't read much Peterpan retellings to be coming to this conclusion but nevertheless, I'd say this is probably the best one I've come to read so far. Despite the rating, it couldn't be denied that Hooked is by far the most inventive and delectable modern-day retellings with Emily McIntire's naturally expressive and poignantly evocative writing style—just with a darker, savoury edge.
]]> <![CDATA[Kingdom of the Feared (Kingdom of the Wicked, #3)]]> 58470171
When a high-ranking member of House Greed is assassinated, Emilia and Wrath are drawn to the rival demon court. Damning evidence points to Vittoria as the murderer and she’s quickly declared an enemy of the Seven Circles. Despite her betrayal, Emilia will do anything to solve this new mystery and find out who her sister really is.

Together Emilia and Wrath play a sin-fueled game of deception as they work to stop the unrest that’s brewing between witches, demons, shape-shifters and the most treacherous foes of all: the Feared.

Emilia was warned that when it came to the Wicked nothing was as it seemed. But, have the true villains been much closer all along? When the truth is finally revealed, it just might end up costing Emilia her heart.

Two curses.
One prophecy.
A reckoning all have feared.

And a love more powerful than fate. All hail the king and queen of Hell.

From the #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Stalking the Jack the Ripper series comes the steamy conclusion to Kingdom of the Wicked trilogy.]]> 417 Kerri Maniscalco 0316342084 aly 2
If this was named 'Kingdom of the Horny', I would have probably understand and give another star for living up to its title but uh.... no ]]> 3.85 2022 Kingdom of the Feared (Kingdom of the Wicked, #3)
author: Kerri Maniscalco
name: aly
average rating: 3.85
book published: 2022
rating: 2
read at: 2022/10/17
date added: 2025/06/16
shelves:
review:
Wrath and Emilia could have just signed up for PornHub and people will cheer.

If this was named 'Kingdom of the Horny', I would have probably understand and give another star for living up to its title but uh.... no
]]> A Sign of Affection, Vol. 1 55197877 YUKI IS A COLLEGE STUDENT WHO’S INTO FRIENDS AND FASHION. SHE’S ALSO DEAF. A CHANCE MEETING ON A TRAIN LEADS TO A SERIOUS CRUSH… BUT CAN IT GROW INTO SOMETHING MORE?

Yuki, who’s always been deaf, is used to communicating with sign language and her phone. But she’s not used to English, so when a tourist from overseas asks for directions, she nearly panics…until a handsome stranger steps in to help. His name is Itsuomi, and it turns out he’s a friend of a friend. A charismatic globetrotter, Itsuomi speaks three languages, but he’s never had a deaf friend. The two feel drawn to each other and plan a date on a romantic winter’s night…but Yuki’s friend is afraid that she might be setting herself up to get hurt. Could this be something real? Or will these feelings melt away with the snow?

A singular, touching love story from the creator of Shortcake Cake!]]> 196 Suu Morishita 1646511840 aly 4
A Sign of Affection conveyed a story of Yuki who was born deaf and Itsuomi who could speak multiple languages (except sign languages being one of them). In the manga, we can see the creator strove to express Yuki's manner of conversing using both graphics and words, including the struggle to communicate using sign language, which I had a whale of a time reading. I believe this manga does a good job of defying the norm since Morishita conducted a great deal of research in making sure the portrayal was properly done.

I love Yuki's personality and find her naivety is quite adorable (despite living the definition of air-headed). She's sweet and caring, reminding me of Tohru from Fruits Basket who is utterly my favourite female manga character of all time. I take no criticism. Itsuomi has yet to impress me since I don't well click with his personality but would love to see how the relationship between the two progresses. Having to insert Oushi, Yuki's childhood friend in the equation also certainly added to the entertainment.

The art style too is another huge draw. This manga is an excellent illustration of art that seeks to enhance and build on the sentiments and message of the story it is attempting to portray. I'm overall loving this manga!

Starting Volume 2 now as I speak.]]> 4.34 2019 A Sign of Affection, Vol. 1
author: Suu Morishita
name: aly
average rating: 4.34
book published: 2019
rating: 4
read at: 2022/06/08
date added: 2025/06/16
shelves:
review:
Been wanting to read this one & in the mood for some shojo, so I surely find myself enjoying this. There weren't many things going on yet but I love how the story builds up. The first book was an excellent start to the series and I can't wait to see how the story unfolds in the next volume.

A Sign of Affection conveyed a story of Yuki who was born deaf and Itsuomi who could speak multiple languages (except sign languages being one of them). In the manga, we can see the creator strove to express Yuki's manner of conversing using both graphics and words, including the struggle to communicate using sign language, which I had a whale of a time reading. I believe this manga does a good job of defying the norm since Morishita conducted a great deal of research in making sure the portrayal was properly done.

I love Yuki's personality and find her naivety is quite adorable (despite living the definition of air-headed). She's sweet and caring, reminding me of Tohru from Fruits Basket who is utterly my favourite female manga character of all time. I take no criticism. Itsuomi has yet to impress me since I don't well click with his personality but would love to see how the relationship between the two progresses. Having to insert Oushi, Yuki's childhood friend in the equation also certainly added to the entertainment.

The art style too is another huge draw. This manga is an excellent illustration of art that seeks to enhance and build on the sentiments and message of the story it is attempting to portray. I'm overall loving this manga!

Starting Volume 2 now as I speak.
]]> <![CDATA[Beasts of Prey (Beasts of Prey, #1)]]> 56552953
As the second son of a decorated hero, Ekon is all but destined to become a Son of the Six--an elite warrior--and uphold a family legacy. But on the night of his final rite of passage, a fire upends his plans. In its midst, Ekon not only encounters the Shetani--a vicious monster that has plagued the city and his nightmares for nearly a century--but a curious girl who seems to have the power to ward off the beast. Koffi's power ultimately saves Ekon's life, but his choice to let her flee dooms his hopes of becoming a warrior.

Desperate to redeem himself, Ekon vows to hunt the Shetani down and end its reign of terror, but he can't do it alone. Meanwhile, Koffi believes finding the Shetani and selling it for a profit could be the key to solving her own problems. Koffi and Ekon--each keeping their true motives secret from the other--form a tentative alliance and enter into the unknowns of the Greater Jungle, a world steeped in wild magic and untold dangers. The hunt begins. But it quickly becomes unclear whether they are the hunters or the hunted.

In this much-anticipated series opener, fate binds two Black teenagers together as they strike a dangerous alliance to hunt down the ancient creature menacing their home--and discover much more than they bargained for.]]> 474 Ayana Gray 0593405684 aly 5
I’M READY FOR BOOK 2!

Further RTC]]> 3.94 2021 Beasts of Prey (Beasts of Prey, #1)
author: Ayana Gray
name: aly
average rating: 3.94
book published: 2021
rating: 5
read at: 2021/12/16
date added: 2025/06/16
shelves:
review:
Ok, this took me quite some times to finish because I wasn’t in the mood for it, but the book is simply amazing. It was so easy to go through and I've been attacked by plot twist after twist (some of you may call it but I didn't and so am I blown away).

I’M READY FOR BOOK 2!

Further RTC
]]> <![CDATA[The Princess Will Save You (Kingdoms of Sand and Sky, #1)]]> 43603825 The Princess Will Save You is a YA fantasy adventure, an homage to The Princess Bride in which a princess must rescue her stable boy true love, from the acclaimed author of Sea Witch, Sarah Henning.

When a princess’s commoner true love is kidnapped to coerce her into a political marriage, she doesn’t give in—she goes to rescue him.

When her warrior father, King Sendoa, mysteriously dies, Princess Amarande of Ardenia is given what would hardly be considered a choice: Marry a stranger at sixteen or lose control of her family’s crown.

But Amarande was raised to be a warrior—not a sacrifice.

In an attempt to force her choice, a neighboring kingdom kidnaps her true love, stable boy Luca. With her kingdom on the brink of civil war and no one to trust, she’ll need all her skill to save him, her future, and her kingdom.]]> 368 Sarah Henning 1250237416 aly 2
My first problem with the book is that the plot ran a bit slowly for me, especially in the beginning. I am not a fan of slow-paced books, but I do find some of them that worked well. However, this entire storyline was quite bland and it took me a long time to finish it. The Princess Will Save You has 53 short chapters sure, but imagine taking eight chapters just to talk about the king's death, but without much going on. It felt almost repetitive every time and making it hard for me to get into. I was reading and waiting for the story to develop but it was painfully deliberate.

I find none of the characters revolutionary. From the start, the author has been describing Ama as this ruthless and fearless princess, only to not meet the expectation towards the end. [spoilers removed]. I get the idea that she was trained to fight but never had any real-life death experience, which explained her hesitation during the battle. In a way, it does feel realistic but due to the overdone "empowering" female character, I find the end product to be futile.

Not to mention, this book provides very little context to Ama and Luca's relationship, which is why I don't think the two have that much chemistry going on. Their romance was flat and their interactions always felt cautious and polite; it does not ring the word lover for me. It's too safe for a bestfriend to lover. For all I know, Luca was kidnapped and suddenly, the two of them are true lovers. I said whereeeeee? The author should give some detailed establishment between the two, other than keep on mentioning that they're friends since diapers.

Another thing I wasn't kin of is how this book is getting so predictable. In the end, I just skipped and roamed through the pages at the end (after the 70% mark) because I just couldn't find myself fully committing. The ending was on a cliffhanger but also very sudden (like, I'm not sure if it's necessary). I started this one after seeing mostly good reviews so I was full of anticipation but am disappointed. I can see how the story is going to resolve so I'm not sure if I wanna read the second book. I don't find myself to care.

[1.75/5]]]> 3.52 2020 The Princess Will Save You (Kingdoms of Sand and Sky, #1)
author: Sarah Henning
name: aly
average rating: 3.52
book published: 2020
rating: 2
read at: 2021/02/13
date added: 2025/06/13
shelves:
review:
Decided to read this one because I get to know that this is a gender-bent of the Princess Bride retelling. Not sure if I have to know how the Princess Bride goes since I never read the book nor have I watched the movie (I'm just not a tv person in general) so, I had a hazy sense of how the book will be. And I don't know if this contributed to one of the reasons as to why I didn't find myself enjoying this.

My first problem with the book is that the plot ran a bit slowly for me, especially in the beginning. I am not a fan of slow-paced books, but I do find some of them that worked well. However, this entire storyline was quite bland and it took me a long time to finish it. The Princess Will Save You has 53 short chapters sure, but imagine taking eight chapters just to talk about the king's death, but without much going on. It felt almost repetitive every time and making it hard for me to get into. I was reading and waiting for the story to develop but it was painfully deliberate.

I find none of the characters revolutionary. From the start, the author has been describing Ama as this ruthless and fearless princess, only to not meet the expectation towards the end. [spoilers removed]. I get the idea that she was trained to fight but never had any real-life death experience, which explained her hesitation during the battle. In a way, it does feel realistic but due to the overdone "empowering" female character, I find the end product to be futile.

Not to mention, this book provides very little context to Ama and Luca's relationship, which is why I don't think the two have that much chemistry going on. Their romance was flat and their interactions always felt cautious and polite; it does not ring the word lover for me. It's too safe for a bestfriend to lover. For all I know, Luca was kidnapped and suddenly, the two of them are true lovers. I said whereeeeee? The author should give some detailed establishment between the two, other than keep on mentioning that they're friends since diapers.

Another thing I wasn't kin of is how this book is getting so predictable. In the end, I just skipped and roamed through the pages at the end (after the 70% mark) because I just couldn't find myself fully committing. The ending was on a cliffhanger but also very sudden (like, I'm not sure if it's necessary). I started this one after seeing mostly good reviews so I was full of anticipation but am disappointed. I can see how the story is going to resolve so I'm not sure if I wanna read the second book. I don't find myself to care.

[1.75/5]
]]> Amelia Unabridged 53138069 Sparks fly between two teens as they grapple with grief, love, and the future.

Eighteen-year-old Amelia Griffin is obsessed with the famous Orman Chronicles, written by the young and reclusive prodigy N. E. Endsley. They’re the books that brought her and her best friend Jenna together after Amelia’s father left and her family imploded. So when Amelia and Jenna get the opportunity to attend a book festival with Endsley in attendance, Amelia is ecstatic. It’s the perfect way to start off their last summer before college.

In a heartbeat, everything goes horribly wrong. When Jenna gets a chance to meet the author and Amelia doesn’t, the two have a blowout fight like they’ve never experienced. And before Amelia has a chance to mend things, Jenna is killed in a freak car accident. Grief-stricken, and without her best friend to guide her, Amelia questions everything she had planned for the future.

When a mysterious, rare edition of the Orman Chronicles arrives, Amelia is convinced that it somehow came from Jenna. Tracking the book to an obscure but enchanting bookstore in Michigan, Amelia is shocked to find herself face-to-face with the enigmatic and handsome N. E. Endsley himself, the reason for Amelia’s and Jenna’s fight and perhaps the clue to what Jenna wanted to tell her all along.]]> 304 Ashley Schumacher 1250253020 aly 5 Me halfway through the book: Do I give this book a three or four stars rating?

The book was nice. I enjoy it but I guess it didn’t really leave me any deep impression. I wanted to feel Amelia's grief over Jenna but then, we got her for two seconds in the book. And I can't find myself feeling the same. Although they did describe Jenna through Amelia's memories, from my halfway through reading, you can say I wasn't remotely touched.

I still love how the author portrays Amelia's friendship with Jenna but the conflict between them was petty. I was so put off by Amelia for getting upset at Jenna—for consoling and being understanding of someone who's in the midst of breaking down.

On the other side, I actually love where the book goes afterwards. I love Amelia's journey in unravelling the mystery of the 101st limited edition copy. The store was also heavenly described and I can imagine myself loving the place. And I don't really think the romance was necessary (I love romance so I have no complaints) but to say, the book will still go well even without the romance. It's easy to read and I love the style of writing too.

~~~~~~~~~~

Also me fifty pages left before finishing: Is this gonna be five stars rating??

It didn’t help that I finished the book at 4:57 AM and I was a hot mess, with snouts on my sleeves and tears on my pillows. I take back my words about being "remotely touched." I am overwhelmed and this book destroys me.

Characters
As the story progresses, I understand Amelia better and felt her grief. She grows so much better and I like how Ashley Schumacher managed to describe all these raw emotions with such benevolence after all the tragedy she's been through. I especially love the significance of the imagery whale in comforting Amelia from her grief.

Mostly, I love the side characters. I love Alex, I love Wally, I love Valerie, I love Lochbrook.

Alex is such a funny and lovely person. I love reading his antics the most. Such a good and protective friend; truly admired his dedication to his friendship with Nolan. How he always worried and cared for him. Literally, an embodiment of Alex best boy!

Then we have Wally. OMG, that dog is chaotic and a mess but I love him nevertheless. Such a life of a party and definitely a cherry on top of this book.

Even Valerie is lovable. She's kind, loving and generous. I like how Amelia keeps referring to her as the fairy godmother because that's the exact vibe you'll get from her. As firm as she is, you'll love how she appears as a mother figure to all the characters. Although it differs from the way she acts around Alex (her own son), Nolan (not her son but already like her son) and Amelia (also not her daughter but already like her daughter) but you'll still get the feeling all the same.

I think I'm gonna have to write an essay if I were to talk about all these side characters because even Jenna's family are angels. To have someone who treats you like a family is such a blessing. Even after Jenna's death, you can see Mark and Trisha still cared for Amelia and her wellbeing. That really takes genuine people to do so (because Amelia's parents ain't shit).

Ending
Anyways, the most emotional part is definitely seeing Amelia deciding what she wanted to do in her life after Jenna's death; especially when they had it planned before. Amelia is now met with a different fate from meeting new people in her life, at once trying her best to honour her best friend's wishes which weren't easy seeing how things changed after Jenna left.

And that epilogue?
[spoilers removed]

All in all, this book is heartfelt, emotional and breathtaking. I love the issues that this book tries to deal with. If you're hurting or feeling lost, Amelia Unabridged is just what you need to heal your soul.]]> 4.12 2021 Amelia Unabridged
author: Ashley Schumacher
name: aly
average rating: 4.12
book published: 2021
rating: 5
read at: 2021/03/30
date added: 2025/06/13
shelves:
review:
Me halfway through the book: Do I give this book a three or four stars rating?

The book was nice. I enjoy it but I guess it didn’t really leave me any deep impression. I wanted to feel Amelia's grief over Jenna but then, we got her for two seconds in the book. And I can't find myself feeling the same. Although they did describe Jenna through Amelia's memories, from my halfway through reading, you can say I wasn't remotely touched.

I still love how the author portrays Amelia's friendship with Jenna but the conflict between them was petty. I was so put off by Amelia for getting upset at Jenna—for consoling and being understanding of someone who's in the midst of breaking down.

On the other side, I actually love where the book goes afterwards. I love Amelia's journey in unravelling the mystery of the 101st limited edition copy. The store was also heavenly described and I can imagine myself loving the place. And I don't really think the romance was necessary (I love romance so I have no complaints) but to say, the book will still go well even without the romance. It's easy to read and I love the style of writing too.

~~~~~~~~~~

Also me fifty pages left before finishing: Is this gonna be five stars rating??

It didn’t help that I finished the book at 4:57 AM and I was a hot mess, with snouts on my sleeves and tears on my pillows. I take back my words about being "remotely touched." I am overwhelmed and this book destroys me.

Characters
As the story progresses, I understand Amelia better and felt her grief. She grows so much better and I like how Ashley Schumacher managed to describe all these raw emotions with such benevolence after all the tragedy she's been through. I especially love the significance of the imagery whale in comforting Amelia from her grief.

Mostly, I love the side characters. I love Alex, I love Wally, I love Valerie, I love Lochbrook.

Alex is such a funny and lovely person. I love reading his antics the most. Such a good and protective friend; truly admired his dedication to his friendship with Nolan. How he always worried and cared for him. Literally, an embodiment of Alex best boy!

Then we have Wally. OMG, that dog is chaotic and a mess but I love him nevertheless. Such a life of a party and definitely a cherry on top of this book.

Even Valerie is lovable. She's kind, loving and generous. I like how Amelia keeps referring to her as the fairy godmother because that's the exact vibe you'll get from her. As firm as she is, you'll love how she appears as a mother figure to all the characters. Although it differs from the way she acts around Alex (her own son), Nolan (not her son but already like her son) and Amelia (also not her daughter but already like her daughter) but you'll still get the feeling all the same.

I think I'm gonna have to write an essay if I were to talk about all these side characters because even Jenna's family are angels. To have someone who treats you like a family is such a blessing. Even after Jenna's death, you can see Mark and Trisha still cared for Amelia and her wellbeing. That really takes genuine people to do so (because Amelia's parents ain't shit).

Ending
Anyways, the most emotional part is definitely seeing Amelia deciding what she wanted to do in her life after Jenna's death; especially when they had it planned before. Amelia is now met with a different fate from meeting new people in her life, at once trying her best to honour her best friend's wishes which weren't easy seeing how things changed after Jenna left.

And that epilogue?
[spoilers removed]

All in all, this book is heartfelt, emotional and breathtaking. I love the issues that this book tries to deal with. If you're hurting or feeling lost, Amelia Unabridged is just what you need to heal your soul.
]]> <![CDATA[Mary Ventura and the Ninth Kingdom]]> 42614095
Lips the colour of blood, the sun an unprecedented orange, train wheels that sound like 'guilt, and guilt, and guilt': these are just some of the things Mary Ventura begins to notice on her journey to the ninth kingdom.

'But what is the ninth kingdom?' she asks a kind-seeming lady in her carriage. 'It is the kingdom of the frozen will,' comes the reply. 'There is no going back.'

Sylvia Plath's strange, dark tale of independence over infanticide, written not long after she herself left home, grapples with mortality in motion.

Bringing together past, present and future in our ninetieth year, Faber Stories is a celebratory compendium of collectable work.]]> 40 Sylvia Plath 0571351735 aly 4
"I can’t let Shakespeare get too far ahead of me, you know"

— because let's be real. When else do you ever get to crack Shakespeare works without some help. So, if you're reading this simply to read, then I'm afraid you'll get nothing out of it; or depending on how you want to make of it.

But for all that, I hate to be kept in the dark so I did some digging on the figurative meaning behind this piece. And it's best to say, my second time rereading this was something else. The experience of reading Mary Ventura and the Ninth Kingdom is inextricably linked to what we know is about to happen: an impending doom made all the more terrifying by the other passengers' blissful innocence. Hence, to escape the fate that awaits everyone else, Mary realizes, she will have to opt-out of the system.

To think that I love how the book starts its story because it reminds me of Harry's first ride with Hogwarts Express might be an understatement to delightful. Because if anything, Mary's trip to the Ninth Kingdom is anything but joy, and Mary's decision to get off the train is more likely a suicide allegory.

The story appears to suggest that life is miserable and leads to nothing but disaster and that the only way out is to stop living, reflecting the author's first suicide attempt the summer after writing this story. Having myself filled with this information gave me cold shivers, considering how clueless I was the first time I read this and how accurate it seems to the living day now.

All said and done, I know Plath's works may not be up to everyone's alley, but if you want something short and mindblowing. This book is perfect for you.]]> 3.97 2019 Mary Ventura and the Ninth Kingdom
author: Sylvia Plath
name: aly
average rating: 3.97
book published: 2019
rating: 4
read at: 2022/03/30
date added: 2025/06/13
shelves:
review:
I read the author's article and know that this book is not something that I can immediately figure out once finished. Especially when she said:
"I can’t let Shakespeare get too far ahead of me, you know"

— because let's be real. When else do you ever get to crack Shakespeare works without some help. So, if you're reading this simply to read, then I'm afraid you'll get nothing out of it; or depending on how you want to make of it.

But for all that, I hate to be kept in the dark so I did some digging on the figurative meaning behind this piece. And it's best to say, my second time rereading this was something else. The experience of reading Mary Ventura and the Ninth Kingdom is inextricably linked to what we know is about to happen: an impending doom made all the more terrifying by the other passengers' blissful innocence. Hence, to escape the fate that awaits everyone else, Mary realizes, she will have to opt-out of the system.

To think that I love how the book starts its story because it reminds me of Harry's first ride with Hogwarts Express might be an understatement to delightful. Because if anything, Mary's trip to the Ninth Kingdom is anything but joy, and Mary's decision to get off the train is more likely a suicide allegory.

The story appears to suggest that life is miserable and leads to nothing but disaster and that the only way out is to stop living, reflecting the author's first suicide attempt the summer after writing this story. Having myself filled with this information gave me cold shivers, considering how clueless I was the first time I read this and how accurate it seems to the living day now.

All said and done, I know Plath's works may not be up to everyone's alley, but if you want something short and mindblowing. This book is perfect for you.
]]> My Killer Vacation 60191114 295 Tessa Bailey aly 2
In all fairness, I do think Tessa Bailey had the potential to write a good mystery romance as this combination is not something we often had. I started the book with the hope that I will come around to enjoy this especially after being so disappointed with Hannah and Fox's story — owing to the fact that Tessa Bailey knows how to hook her reader. It always felt like you're being enchanted and this book is no less the same.

Unfortunately, like many others, she is married to using the same tropes in her pairings which is not my cup of tea. The romance had to go rack and ruin it because I hate insta-lust with a passion. I love to see when people have to work for it; though I find some of them fitting or refinedly done in her past works. I was counting on Bailey to draw up a layout of the premise instead of just going off with the dirty talks and sexy times, where more and more the mystery seems like an afterthought.

While I do find Myles and Taylor delightful, I only come around to it at the end of the book. The murder mystery at hand was supposed to allow readers to see them outside of a completely romantic context but it was so hard to hit it off with them at the first start with Myles' lewd thoughts and alpha male behavior that always come off as demanding. Like, I know we are doing grumpy-sunshine here but thanks, I've met better Tessa Bailey's hero. And Taylor? is sweet, but also as scatterbrained. Her sudden objective of self-discovery by deciding to investigate a murder case did not sit well with what was supposed to be and what was conveyed.

That being said, the romance didn't win me and needed more time. It felt rushed, and balancing the whole murder to be solved was difficult. Some books contain both plot and sensual sequences, but this one contained only steamy scenes with no plot. Not to mention the continual interruptions and push-pull after almost-fuck moments irritate me. The only lovable addition to the book would be Taylor's brother and that pretty much wraps it up.

Conclusively, this wasn't bad but it wasn't the best either. I needed to start setting low expectations so I will be less let down the next time.]]> 3.56 2022 My Killer Vacation
author: Tessa Bailey
name: aly
average rating: 3.56
book published: 2022
rating: 2
read at: 2022/06/15
date added: 2025/06/11
shelves:
review:
Disappointed but not surprised. Things just aren't looking good since my least favorite Tessa Bailey books have started to outnumber my favorite Tessa Bailey books.

In all fairness, I do think Tessa Bailey had the potential to write a good mystery romance as this combination is not something we often had. I started the book with the hope that I will come around to enjoy this especially after being so disappointed with Hannah and Fox's story — owing to the fact that Tessa Bailey knows how to hook her reader. It always felt like you're being enchanted and this book is no less the same.

Unfortunately, like many others, she is married to using the same tropes in her pairings which is not my cup of tea. The romance had to go rack and ruin it because I hate insta-lust with a passion. I love to see when people have to work for it; though I find some of them fitting or refinedly done in her past works. I was counting on Bailey to draw up a layout of the premise instead of just going off with the dirty talks and sexy times, where more and more the mystery seems like an afterthought.

While I do find Myles and Taylor delightful, I only come around to it at the end of the book. The murder mystery at hand was supposed to allow readers to see them outside of a completely romantic context but it was so hard to hit it off with them at the first start with Myles' lewd thoughts and alpha male behavior that always come off as demanding. Like, I know we are doing grumpy-sunshine here but thanks, I've met better Tessa Bailey's hero. And Taylor? is sweet, but also as scatterbrained. Her sudden objective of self-discovery by deciding to investigate a murder case did not sit well with what was supposed to be and what was conveyed.

That being said, the romance didn't win me and needed more time. It felt rushed, and balancing the whole murder to be solved was difficult. Some books contain both plot and sensual sequences, but this one contained only steamy scenes with no plot. Not to mention the continual interruptions and push-pull after almost-fuck moments irritate me. The only lovable addition to the book would be Taylor's brother and that pretty much wraps it up.

Conclusively, this wasn't bad but it wasn't the best either. I needed to start setting low expectations so I will be less let down the next time.
]]> <![CDATA[Things Have Gotten Worse Since We Last Spoke]]> 57876868
What have you done today to deserve your eyes?]]> 120 Eric LaRocca 1951658132 aly 2
1. It was simply horrible
2. Feels unrealistic and amateur
3. Non-distinctive characters. I feel like reading a one-person POV.
4. No build-up. Things escalated too quickly.
5. Now when you have all of the above, you'll come to not care about the story as a whole

Although the hidden message was clear and set forth, I don't think it’s the author’s place to write or represent this think piece]]> 2.93 2021 Things Have Gotten Worse Since We Last Spoke
author: Eric LaRocca
name: aly
average rating: 2.93
book published: 2021
rating: 2
read at: 2021/12/22
date added: 2025/06/11
shelves:
review:
Frankly, I do enjoy a piece of this book and I am undeniably disturbed; but it still didn't miss that:

1. It was simply horrible
2. Feels unrealistic and amateur
3. Non-distinctive characters. I feel like reading a one-person POV.
4. No build-up. Things escalated too quickly.
5. Now when you have all of the above, you'll come to not care about the story as a whole

Although the hidden message was clear and set forth, I don't think it’s the author’s place to write or represent this think piece
]]> Study for Obedience 123636870
A young woman moves from the place of her birth to the remote northern country of her forebears to be housekeeper to her brother, whose wife has recently left him. 

Soon after her arrival, a series of inexplicable events occurs - collective bovine hysteria; the demise of a ewe and her nearly born lamb; a local dog's phantom pregnancy; a potato blight. She notices that the local suspicion about incomers in general seems to be directed with some intensity at her and she senses a mounting threat that lies 'just beyond the garden gate.' And as she feels the hostility growing, pressing at the edges of her brother's property, she fears that, should the rumblings in the town gather themselves into a more defined shape, who knows what might happen, what one might be capable of doing.

With a sharp, lyrical voice, Sarah Bernstein powerfully explores questions of complicity and power, displacement and inheritance. Study for Obedience is a finely tuned, unsettling novel that confirms Bernstein as one of the most exciting voices of her generation.]]> 192 Sarah Bernstein 1039009069 aly 3
Trying to understand this book's allegorical nature feels tricky, and my attempts might seem off-track. The story is vague, making it hard to grasp initially and leaving me uncertain about its interpretation. Nevertheless, the book's writing style is something I genuinely savor — it adopts a unique style, presenting a narrative without a distinct plot, and employing a stream-of-consciousness approach. Though the frequent use of combined and reiterated phrases may pose challenges for readers, the author skillfully captures the essence of loneliness, even with a narrative characterized by minimal emotional expression.

Whereas the promising elements that could make it a gripping tale, this book squanders its potential, lacking the momentum needed to leave a lasting impression. The narrative touches on various significant themes like gender, race, class discrimination, morality, responsibility, intergenerational trauma, and the nuances of language. However, it falls short of fully exploring or delving into these big themes. I find myself torn—I enjoy its abstract qualities, but there's a lingering uncertainty about specific aspects that fail to strike a chord with me.

Certainly, this novel may not cater to every reader, presenting complexities with unfamiliar vocabulary, a wandering narrative, and at times, dense prose that prompts contemplation on the purpose of certain sections. Still, if you're looking for a quick read, the upside is that it's a relatively short book (or for when you pose to be smarter than me and assume a more sophisticated taste to fully appreciate lol).]]> 3.02 2023 Study for Obedience
author: Sarah Bernstein
name: aly
average rating: 3.02
book published: 2023
rating: 3
read at: 2023/12/29
date added: 2025/06/10
shelves:
review:
While I understand why some readers might find this book difficult, its undeniable appeal is evident. In this compelling narrative, an unnamed woman devotes herself to fulfilling her elder brother's quest, striving to maintain his happiness. Following a shattered marriage, the brother summons her to his side, setting the stage for a succession of inexplicable events that gradually lead the entire town to disdain her presence.

Trying to understand this book's allegorical nature feels tricky, and my attempts might seem off-track. The story is vague, making it hard to grasp initially and leaving me uncertain about its interpretation. Nevertheless, the book's writing style is something I genuinely savor — it adopts a unique style, presenting a narrative without a distinct plot, and employing a stream-of-consciousness approach. Though the frequent use of combined and reiterated phrases may pose challenges for readers, the author skillfully captures the essence of loneliness, even with a narrative characterized by minimal emotional expression.

Whereas the promising elements that could make it a gripping tale, this book squanders its potential, lacking the momentum needed to leave a lasting impression. The narrative touches on various significant themes like gender, race, class discrimination, morality, responsibility, intergenerational trauma, and the nuances of language. However, it falls short of fully exploring or delving into these big themes. I find myself torn—I enjoy its abstract qualities, but there's a lingering uncertainty about specific aspects that fail to strike a chord with me.

Certainly, this novel may not cater to every reader, presenting complexities with unfamiliar vocabulary, a wandering narrative, and at times, dense prose that prompts contemplation on the purpose of certain sections. Still, if you're looking for a quick read, the upside is that it's a relatively short book (or for when you pose to be smarter than me and assume a more sophisticated taste to fully appreciate lol).
]]> Who Owns the Clouds? 63219913 In her dreams, Mila and her family leave their bombed village to stand in line for weeks on end, suitcases in hand, hoping to move on to better lives. But the memories of her uncle’s disappearance, and the approach of looming clouds, keep blurring the lines between past and present, real and unreal. How can Mila move forward? Perhaps if the clouds can remind her of where she’s from, they can also show her where to go . . .]]> 100 Mario Brassard 1774880210 aly 4
Who Owns the Clouds is a speculative, ambient graphic novel that delicately explores issues of loss, healing, and memory where the fictitious adult protagonist recalls a time she is or is not dealing with how she survived when she fled a war-torn country as a child.

"Maybe memories are like clouds. Some lighter, float high above; others are darker, weighing heavily on our shoulders for a long time until the day we're finally ready to let them fly away.

That day will come. It's just a question of the winds"

I have always loved vibrant graphic novels and it is not all the time that the artists get to capture the ambiance with minimal color selection for the story, but Mario Brassard pulled this one effortlessly. The captivating, moody illustrations depict the contemplative story with elegance and conjure us a European setting from the middle of the 20th century. By having it realistically and beautifully done, it is not what you expect, but just what is essential.

On the other hand, there have been a lot of published books discussing the impact of war and it is not always that people get to simply pick and read them for how much it can be triggering (I don't do well with heavy books either). But as I said, this graphic novel leaves room for you to be contemplative — it's thought-provoking and simply impactful. I enjoy how it deliberately employs a format with very short pages that make this intricate book immensely readable. There are moments when you'll be filled with hope and moments when you'll be impaired. 

Regardless, I would understand how it might not be effective as it is a challenging medium. There is no room for fluff or filler, and each word must have a particular purpose. However, this is where I would commend the translator for doing justice with concise, terse prose that offers a unique opportunity for poignancy and a clearer understanding of the effects of war as how the author would want to convey.

As a whole, I am utterly dazzled by this book. It is not all the time that I feel enlightened as I mostly read graphic novels largely as a source of entertainment, but Who Owns the Clouds is a brief and lyrical rumination of the aching beauty and anguish of life. I will definitely reread this one!]]> 3.89 2021 Who Owns the Clouds?
author: Mario Brassard
name: aly
average rating: 3.89
book published: 2021
rating: 4
read at: 2023/02/10
date added: 2025/06/10
shelves:
review:
I was drawn by the cover, but when I realized how many pages there were, I started to doubt whether the book will succeed in expressing the messages it sought. The result: it does and it is weighing me down (in a good way that it brings you to being contemplative).

Who Owns the Clouds is a speculative, ambient graphic novel that delicately explores issues of loss, healing, and memory where the fictitious adult protagonist recalls a time she is or is not dealing with how she survived when she fled a war-torn country as a child.

"Maybe memories are like clouds. Some lighter, float high above; others are darker, weighing heavily on our shoulders for a long time until the day we're finally ready to let them fly away.

That day will come. It's just a question of the winds"

I have always loved vibrant graphic novels and it is not all the time that the artists get to capture the ambiance with minimal color selection for the story, but Mario Brassard pulled this one effortlessly. The captivating, moody illustrations depict the contemplative story with elegance and conjure us a European setting from the middle of the 20th century. By having it realistically and beautifully done, it is not what you expect, but just what is essential.

On the other hand, there have been a lot of published books discussing the impact of war and it is not always that people get to simply pick and read them for how much it can be triggering (I don't do well with heavy books either). But as I said, this graphic novel leaves room for you to be contemplative — it's thought-provoking and simply impactful. I enjoy how it deliberately employs a format with very short pages that make this intricate book immensely readable. There are moments when you'll be filled with hope and moments when you'll be impaired. 

Regardless, I would understand how it might not be effective as it is a challenging medium. There is no room for fluff or filler, and each word must have a particular purpose. However, this is where I would commend the translator for doing justice with concise, terse prose that offers a unique opportunity for poignancy and a clearer understanding of the effects of war as how the author would want to convey.

As a whole, I am utterly dazzled by this book. It is not all the time that I feel enlightened as I mostly read graphic novels largely as a source of entertainment, but Who Owns the Clouds is a brief and lyrical rumination of the aching beauty and anguish of life. I will definitely reread this one!
]]> The Stranger in Seat 8B 60803012 No working in the air.
And he's determined to make the ice queen abide by it.

Annie is a workaholic. Her entire life revolves around being a successful lawyer, which means she has no time for anything or anyone else. And that includes engaging with handsome strangers that try to distract her from working.

Damien knows the second he sits beside her that he's going to ignore the unspoken flight etiquette that says not to initiate small talk. He can’t help but to coax Annie out of her cold shell, one playful comment at a time.

Can Damien convince Annie to take a chance on him, even if it's just for tonight? Or will she rebuild her walls and shut him out?


Please note: The Stranger in Seat 8B is a standalone novella in the Just Tonight character series, featuring strong language and explicit sex scenes. Reader discretion is advised.]]> 124 Nikki Castle aly 3
While this book is pretty forgettable as I tried to write the review after two months of reading it —admittedly, Damien and Anna feel right. I enjoy the grumpy sunshine trope and to have a reverse role in a form of a spicy novella sure adds to delight. Anna is a strong alpha woman and Damien is surely charming, which I love to see how he brought the banter between them.

It's quite bewildering how their love story works within the short pages. While I often find novellas rushed and forced, this one does not feel like it. If truth be told, it almost seems plausible for it to happen. You know, to catch a flight and find your way with love? Like hello, ME WHEN?

For the most part, if you're in a slump or want a quick palette cleanser, this book might be what you need and I may have just need to check Nikki Castle other works after this one.]]> 3.79 2022 The Stranger in Seat 8B
author: Nikki Castle
name: aly
average rating: 3.79
book published: 2022
rating: 3
read at: 2022/09/10
date added: 2025/06/10
shelves:
review:
If we are talking about who should be an ambassador of Anti-Insta Lust movement, I am the only right person to run for the presidency. So just why did I end up enjoying this despite it being insta-love/lust, because you can't happen to fall in love with the person you decided to meet on a plane and fuck?

While this book is pretty forgettable as I tried to write the review after two months of reading it —admittedly, Damien and Anna feel right. I enjoy the grumpy sunshine trope and to have a reverse role in a form of a spicy novella sure adds to delight. Anna is a strong alpha woman and Damien is surely charming, which I love to see how he brought the banter between them.

It's quite bewildering how their love story works within the short pages. While I often find novellas rushed and forced, this one does not feel like it. If truth be told, it almost seems plausible for it to happen. You know, to catch a flight and find your way with love? Like hello, ME WHEN?

For the most part, if you're in a slump or want a quick palette cleanser, this book might be what you need and I may have just need to check Nikki Castle other works after this one.
]]> Galatea 18162954 An enchanting short story from Madeline Miller that boldly reimagines the myth of Galatea and Pygmalion.

In ancient Greece, a skilled marble sculptor has been blessed by a goddess who has given his masterpiece — the most beautiful woman the town has ever seen — the gift of life. Now his wife, he expects Galatea to please him, to be obedience and humility personified. But she has desires of her own and yearns for independence.

In a desperate bid by her obsessive husband to keep her under control, Galatea is locked away under the constant supervision of doctors and nurses. But with a daughter to rescue, she is determined to break free, whatever the cost...]]> 27 Madeline Miller 1408848147 aly 3
In Ovid’s Metamorphoses, Pygmalion carves his ideal woman from ivory, and Venus brings her to life to become his obedient wife. Miller subverts this myth, casting Galatea as a fully realized person—one who resents her creator (referred to only as "my husband") for trapping her in a gilded cage. Locked away under the watch of a doctor and nurse, Galatea endures gaslighting, coercion, and physical abuse, all while her husband wields their daughter as a tool of control. The story is a sharp critique of male entitlement, the fetishization of female suffering, and the systemic oppression of women to which the themes resonate disturbingly well in the modern world.

Miller’s prose is stark and effective, though its modernity caught me off guard. Given that Galatea is a retelling of Greek myth; a genre I associate with lush, lyrical language, I expected something more stylistically ornate. (This being my first encounter with Miller’s work, I can’t say whether her other novels lean poetic or pared down.) That said, the bluntness of the narration suits Galatea’s rage and desperation, making her voice all the more compelling. She is the undeniable heart of the story; clever, resilient, and defiant.

Yet while Galatea’s perspective dominates, the world around her remains thinly sketched. The nurse, for instance, embodies the complicity of women in patriarchal violence, her quiet obedience a foil to Galatea’s rebellion. But this dynamic is never fully explored, leaving the systemic nature of such oppression underexamined. Similarly, Galatea’s relationship with her daughter, Paphos, is rich with unspoken tension—hinted at in fleeting moments of protectiveness and fear, but the emotional weight of their bond is never given room to breathe. These underdeveloped threads don’t diminish Galatea’s own arc, but they do leave the story feeling more like a lightning strike than a sustained storm: brilliant, illuminating, but over before its full force can be reckoned with.

It is undeniable that at just 50 pages, Galatea delivers a powerful punch, but it also feels like a snapshot rather than a complete narrative. The themes are weighty enough to sustain a full-length novel, and I found myself wishing Miller had expanded the story to delve further into Galatea’s psyche, her relationships with other women, and the broader implications of her rebellion. The frequent sexual violence, while thematically relevant, sometimes overshadows opportunities for deeper introspection.

Nevertheless, despite its limitations, Galatea is a bold and necessary retelling; one that reclaims a silenced figure and challenges the romanticized interpretations of the original myth. It is a strong introduction to Miller’s work, though I hope to explore such rich material on a larger scale in her other works.]]> 3.93 2013 Galatea
author: Madeline Miller
name: aly
average rating: 3.93
book published: 2013
rating: 3
read at: 2025/05/12
date added: 2025/06/10
shelves:
review:
In a world where gods and men decide a woman’s fate, this story gives voice to one who was meant to be silent. In just few pages, Miller unravels themes of transformation, autonomy, and the suffocating weight of patriarchal control. While the story is thought-provoking and thematically rich, its extensiveness left me wanting more; both in terms of narrative depth and character development.

In Ovid’s Metamorphoses, Pygmalion carves his ideal woman from ivory, and Venus brings her to life to become his obedient wife. Miller subverts this myth, casting Galatea as a fully realized person—one who resents her creator (referred to only as "my husband") for trapping her in a gilded cage. Locked away under the watch of a doctor and nurse, Galatea endures gaslighting, coercion, and physical abuse, all while her husband wields their daughter as a tool of control. The story is a sharp critique of male entitlement, the fetishization of female suffering, and the systemic oppression of women to which the themes resonate disturbingly well in the modern world.

Miller’s prose is stark and effective, though its modernity caught me off guard. Given that Galatea is a retelling of Greek myth; a genre I associate with lush, lyrical language, I expected something more stylistically ornate. (This being my first encounter with Miller’s work, I can’t say whether her other novels lean poetic or pared down.) That said, the bluntness of the narration suits Galatea’s rage and desperation, making her voice all the more compelling. She is the undeniable heart of the story; clever, resilient, and defiant.

Yet while Galatea’s perspective dominates, the world around her remains thinly sketched. The nurse, for instance, embodies the complicity of women in patriarchal violence, her quiet obedience a foil to Galatea’s rebellion. But this dynamic is never fully explored, leaving the systemic nature of such oppression underexamined. Similarly, Galatea’s relationship with her daughter, Paphos, is rich with unspoken tension—hinted at in fleeting moments of protectiveness and fear, but the emotional weight of their bond is never given room to breathe. These underdeveloped threads don’t diminish Galatea’s own arc, but they do leave the story feeling more like a lightning strike than a sustained storm: brilliant, illuminating, but over before its full force can be reckoned with.

It is undeniable that at just 50 pages, Galatea delivers a powerful punch, but it also feels like a snapshot rather than a complete narrative. The themes are weighty enough to sustain a full-length novel, and I found myself wishing Miller had expanded the story to delve further into Galatea’s psyche, her relationships with other women, and the broader implications of her rebellion. The frequent sexual violence, while thematically relevant, sometimes overshadows opportunities for deeper introspection.

Nevertheless, despite its limitations, Galatea is a bold and necessary retelling; one that reclaims a silenced figure and challenges the romanticized interpretations of the original myth. It is a strong introduction to Miller’s work, though I hope to explore such rich material on a larger scale in her other works.
]]> <![CDATA[What George Thinks When He Sits Still]]> 234339462 Have you ever wondered what a cat is thinking?

In this tender, beautifully illustrated picture book, readers follow George—a dreamy, thoughtful cat—as he rests in sunbeams, watches the world pass by, and reflects on quiet moments. The story begins from an outside perspective, then gently shifts into George’s own voice—inviting children and grown-ups alike to slow down and listen more closely… to cats, to stillness, and maybe even to themselves.

What George Thinks When He Sits Still is a calming, poetic experience for cat lovers, gentle-hearted children, teachers, and anyone who finds magic in quiet moments. Whether enjoyed at bedtime or shared in a classroom, it’s a beautiful resource for lesson planning, SEL conversations, and imaginative storytime.



The book also introduces young readers to first- and third-person narration, making it a thoughtful addition to classrooms and homeschool settings.



Aligned with Common Core ELA standards for grades K–3, this book



Narrative perspective (RL.1.6, RL.2.6)Text and illustration analysis (RL.1.7, RL.2.7)Social-emotional learning and mindful reflection



A perfect choice



Curious and gentle readers ages 4–9SEL and mindfulness momentsCozy classrooms or quiet bedtime ritualsCat lovers of all agesTeachers seeking literature for lesson planning or anchor textsFamilies and educators who believe stillness can be magical]]> Caroline Bell aly 3 1.67 What George Thinks When He Sits Still
author: Caroline Bell
name: aly
average rating: 1.67
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2025/06/09
date added: 2025/06/09
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[How to Train Your Human: An Cat's Guide to Training Humans―Insightful Tips and Humorous Observations on Taming the Human Species]]> 181110025 144 Babas 0063336480 aly 3 3.99 2022 How to Train Your Human: An Cat's Guide to Training Humans―Insightful Tips and Humorous Observations on Taming the Human Species
author: Babas
name: aly
average rating: 3.99
book published: 2022
rating: 3
read at: 2025/06/10
date added: 2025/06/09
shelves:
review:

]]> Hunchback 214986269 A bombshell bestseller in Japan, a provocative, defiant debut novel about a young woman in a care home seeking autonomy and the full possibilities of her life.

Born with a congenital muscle disorder, Shaka spends her days in her room in a care home outside Tokyo, relying on an electric wheelchair to get around and a ventilator to breathe. But if Shaka's physical life is limited, her quick, mischievous mind has no boundaries: She takes e-learning courses on her iPad, publishes explicit fantasies on websites, and anonymously troll-tweets to see if anyone is paying attention (“If I were to live again, I’d want to be a high-class prostitute”). One day, she tweets into the void an offer of an enormous sum of money for a sperm donor. To her surprise, her new nurse accepts the dare, unleashing a series of events that will forever change Shaka's sense of herself as a woman in the world.

Hunchback has shaken Japanese literary culture with its skillful depiction of the physical body and unrepentant humor. Winner of the prestigious Akutagawa Prize, it's a feminist story about the dignity of an individual who insists on her right to make choices for herself, no matter the consequences. Formally creative and refreshingly unsentimental, Hunchback depicts the joy, anger, and desires of a woman demanding autonomy in a world that doesn't always grant it to people like her. Full of wit, bite, and heart, this unforgettable novel reminds us all of the full potential of our lives, no matter the limitations we experience.]]> 112 Saou Ichikawa 0593734718 aly 2 Hunchback is a defiant scream. As a debut novel by an author who shares her protagonist’s condition, it carries undeniable weight, exposing the pain and alienation faced by disabled individuals through Shaka Isawa—a severely disabled woman navigating a world that reduces her to an object of pity or curiosity.

Ichikawa’s prose mirrors her protagonist’s unapologetic existence: blunt, abrasive, and refusing to soften for comfort. There’s power in that rawness, but also frustrating unevenness. The novel shines when dissecting ableism head on; the hypocrisy of inaccessible books, the infantilization of disabled women, the quiet violence of exclusion. Yet just as these themes grip you, the narrative pivots abruptly:

"In another life, I'd like to be a prostitute"


Now, this is where the book loses its footing. Just as the story digs into important issues, it takes a hard turn into graphic sexual content that's meant to feel empowering but ultimately leaves the message fuzzy. Rather than showing Shaka's liberation, these scenes accidentally reduce her value to just her body, not her sharp mind or fierce independence. I get what the author was trying to do: smash taboos about disabled people's sexuality. But in practice, these moments sometimes feel more exploitative than revolutionary, pulling focus from the story's more powerful ideas. Or perhaps, that what the message it is trying to remit...

Therefore, structurally, the story feels fragmented, like a series of moments rather than a fully fleshed out narrative. It forces readers to face their own biases, which is commanding, but the writing can be messy. It’s easy to call this work radical, but for all its intellectual force, the emotional resonance never quite lands for me. Ichikawa shows her opinions related to the subject matter with its own purposes but alas, I read the book with my own expectations.]]> 3.41 2023 Hunchback
author: Saou Ichikawa
name: aly
average rating: 3.41
book published: 2023
rating: 2
read at: 2025/05/17
date added: 2025/06/09
shelves:
review:
In a literary landscape where disabled voices are still sidelined, Hunchback is a defiant scream. As a debut novel by an author who shares her protagonist’s condition, it carries undeniable weight, exposing the pain and alienation faced by disabled individuals through Shaka Isawa—a severely disabled woman navigating a world that reduces her to an object of pity or curiosity.

Ichikawa’s prose mirrors her protagonist’s unapologetic existence: blunt, abrasive, and refusing to soften for comfort. There’s power in that rawness, but also frustrating unevenness. The novel shines when dissecting ableism head on; the hypocrisy of inaccessible books, the infantilization of disabled women, the quiet violence of exclusion. Yet just as these themes grip you, the narrative pivots abruptly:

"In another life, I'd like to be a prostitute"


Now, this is where the book loses its footing. Just as the story digs into important issues, it takes a hard turn into graphic sexual content that's meant to feel empowering but ultimately leaves the message fuzzy. Rather than showing Shaka's liberation, these scenes accidentally reduce her value to just her body, not her sharp mind or fierce independence. I get what the author was trying to do: smash taboos about disabled people's sexuality. But in practice, these moments sometimes feel more exploitative than revolutionary, pulling focus from the story's more powerful ideas. Or perhaps, that what the message it is trying to remit...

Therefore, structurally, the story feels fragmented, like a series of moments rather than a fully fleshed out narrative. It forces readers to face their own biases, which is commanding, but the writing can be messy. It’s easy to call this work radical, but for all its intellectual force, the emotional resonance never quite lands for me. Ichikawa shows her opinions related to the subject matter with its own purposes but alas, I read the book with my own expectations.
]]> Little Sister 59552905 129 Susie Morgenstern aly 3 (Thank you Netgalley for providing me with an eARC in exchange for a review)

Little Sister by Johann G Louis is an autobiography of Susie Morgenstern as the youngest sibling of three, set in the 1950s after World War II. Despite what the summary indicated, this book covers the broader topic of family, embracing one's identity and evoking awakening to life than just the "struggle" of being one little sister.

First off, I requested this because I am in love with the illustrations. It feels so nostalgic and reminded me of Madeline and somewhere along Tim Burton's aesthetic. The novel settles for a light and gentle colour palette which distinguishes the characters and the scenes, evoking emotional responses from readers.

The novel itself was adorable and is suitable for its target audience. However, each scene often started and ended abruptly, leaving readers unfulfilled. For one moment, we have Susie coming back from school to her sisters asking her to cook to her grandfather death news in a blink of an eye. I wouldn't be so hard on a children book but I believe the transition could've progress better as this would assist children to understand the significance of each of the stories recounted that way. The story was all over the place and I'm starting to wonder where the story is heading.

Nevertheless, this was a quick and light read and despite the hiccups, it's not really bad of a read (thanks to the stunning illustrations).]]> 3.42 2021 Little Sister
author: Susie Morgenstern
name: aly
average rating: 3.42
book published: 2021
rating: 3
read at: 2021/12/01
date added: 2025/06/09
shelves:
review:
(Thank you Netgalley for providing me with an eARC in exchange for a review)

Little Sister by Johann G Louis is an autobiography of Susie Morgenstern as the youngest sibling of three, set in the 1950s after World War II. Despite what the summary indicated, this book covers the broader topic of family, embracing one's identity and evoking awakening to life than just the "struggle" of being one little sister.

First off, I requested this because I am in love with the illustrations. It feels so nostalgic and reminded me of Madeline and somewhere along Tim Burton's aesthetic. The novel settles for a light and gentle colour palette which distinguishes the characters and the scenes, evoking emotional responses from readers.

The novel itself was adorable and is suitable for its target audience. However, each scene often started and ended abruptly, leaving readers unfulfilled. For one moment, we have Susie coming back from school to her sisters asking her to cook to her grandfather death news in a blink of an eye. I wouldn't be so hard on a children book but I believe the transition could've progress better as this would assist children to understand the significance of each of the stories recounted that way. The story was all over the place and I'm starting to wonder where the story is heading.

Nevertheless, this was a quick and light read and despite the hiccups, it's not really bad of a read (thanks to the stunning illustrations).
]]> <![CDATA[The Cat Who Saved Books (The Cat Who..., #1)]]> 58815170 Grandpa used to say it all the time: books have tremendous power. But what is that power really?

Natsuki Books was a tiny second-hand bookshop on the edge of town. Inside, towering shelves reached the ceiling, every one crammed full of wonderful books. Rintaro Natsuki loved this space that his grandfather had created. He spent many happy hours there, reading whatever he liked. It was the perfect refuge for a boy who tended to be something of a recluse.

After the death of his grandfather, Rintaro is devastated and alone. It seems he will have to close the shop. Then, a talking tabby cat called Tiger appears and asks Rintaro for help. The cat needs a book lover to join him on a mission. This odd couple will go on three magical adventures to save books from people have imprisoned, mistreated and betrayed them. Finally, there is one last rescue that Rintaro must attempt alone...

The Cat Who Saved Books is a heart-warming story about finding courage, caring for others - and the tremendous power of books. Sosuke Natsukawa's international best seller, translated from Japanese by Louise Heal Kawai, is a story for those for whom books are so much more than words on paper.]]> 220 Sōsuke Natsukawa 1529052106 aly 3 3.66 2017 The Cat Who Saved Books (The Cat Who..., #1)
author: Sōsuke Natsukawa
name: aly
average rating: 3.66
book published: 2017
rating: 3
read at: 2025/06/07
date added: 2025/06/07
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Paperwhite Narcissus (Martha's Vineyard Mysteries, #5)]]> 745298 The Island Enquirer (the editor claims the newspaper needs a younger look).

Victoria, determined to show that age is no barrier to news papering, immediately throws her weight behind The Grackle, intent on turning the two-page West Tisbury newsletter into a formidable competitor of the Enquirer. And it looks as though she will.

In the meantime, the Enquirer's narcissistic editor has been receiving a series of obituaries, each naming him as the deceased. He would dismiss them as a sick joke, but the obituaries follow the actual deaths of people close to him. Rather than going to the police, he grudgingly rehires Victoria to uncover the identity of the obituary writer. Victoria knows almost everybody on the Island, and she may be the only person who can solve the mystery before the editor needs a genuine obituary of his own.

In The Paperwhite Narcissus, as in the four previous books in the series, Cynthia Riggs explores the rich and varied setting of Martha's Vineyard in a way that only a native Islander can. The story glides from Wasque, the desolate southeast corner of Chappaquiddick, to the Coast Guard boat ramp in Menemsha; from the elegantly maintained Captains' houses in Edgartown to the wild Atlantic Ocean beach at Quansoo.

A delightfully cozy read, steeped in rich characters and a sense of place, this latest Victoria Trumbull mystery is sure to charm long-time fans and first-time readers.
]]> 245 Cynthia Riggs 0312339836 aly 0 to-read 3.74 2005 The Paperwhite Narcissus (Martha's Vineyard Mysteries, #5)
author: Cynthia Riggs
name: aly
average rating: 3.74
book published: 2005
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/06/06
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> The Taking of Jake Livingston 39085455 Get Out meets Danielle Vega in this YA horror where survival is not a guarantee.

Jake Livingston is one of the only Black kids at St. Clair Prep, one of the others being his infinitely more popular older brother. It’s hard enough fitting in but to make matters worse and definitely more complicated, Jake can see the dead. In fact he sees the dead around him all the time. Most are harmless. Stuck in their death loops as they relive their deaths over and over again, they don’t interact often with people. But then Jake meets Sawyer. A troubled teen who shot and killed six kids at a local high school last year before taking his own life. Now a powerful, vengeful ghost, he has plans for his afterlife–plans that include Jake. Suddenly, everything Jake knows about ghosts and the rules to life itself go out the window as Sawyer begins haunting him and bodies turn up in his neighborhood. High school soon becomes a survival game–one Jake is not sure he’s going to win.]]> 246 Ryan Douglass 198481253X aly 2 [2.5/5]

I haven't read any horror books for some time now (I think the last time was from Madeleine Roux) so this feels like a breath of fresh air but I don't think I find myself enjoying this one as much. Let's just go on with what I like about the book first:

The pretty cover. It gives me a whole Frankenstein vibe for some reasons (that's not what the story is about though) and I love the the colour palette. It what makes me want to read this book in the first place. Book cover first, plot later (lol).

The horror in this book is not entirely my favourite (I'll tell more why) but I do appreciate the direction that the author is going for in this book. I specifically find the death loops intriguing.

Undeniably so, there were also some other things that fell short and doesn't work for me.

Underdeveloped world-building. The book is short which made it super easy to read and get it over with but the world-building is poorly wirtten. The atmosphere of the novel was inconsistent because there wasn't much to latch onto at the start, and the author didn't provide enough information to grasp Jake's condition. I don't think I truly understand the death world this book is trying to portray. Especially when it suddenly involved Jake's ancestors. Or why Jake can see ghosts and deem as powerful or Sawyer's equal.

The concept of possession and dreams in horror books is actually not my cup of tea. The book starts great. However, after few pages, I found the story to be quite flat. And honestly, I was kind of bored not until the plot picks up again towards the end. It's not the author fault though, just a matter of preferences (I guess?)

Allister's presence in Jake's life seems didactic and abrupt. Even when the book does not put their relationship as the main focus, I still feel theirs as insta-love. Therefore, I don't really feel any sort of connection between the two simultaneously making the queer representation felt scant.

Characters. As much as I would complain about a one-dimensional character, this book is being far-fetched because Sawyer is so complex and multifaceted that the proffered discussions in his chapters are insufficient. Gun control, school massacres, and mental health are all issues that need to be tackled outside of the private matter but were done poorly. Meanwhile, not much can be gained for Jake as a character either. All readers would get besides being a boy who can see ghost is an anxious and gay person. It is pretty disappointing.

I am not sure if reading thriller and horror book consecutively is why I didn't find myself enjoying this as I expected myself to be (especially when your previous read was better). I truly wanted to love the book I do, but I couldn't find myself entirely impressed.]]> 3.42 2021 The Taking of Jake Livingston
author: Ryan Douglass
name: aly
average rating: 3.42
book published: 2021
rating: 2
read at: 2021/07/16
date added: 2025/06/06
shelves:
review:
[2.5/5]

I haven't read any horror books for some time now (I think the last time was from Madeleine Roux) so this feels like a breath of fresh air but I don't think I find myself enjoying this one as much. Let's just go on with what I like about the book first:

The pretty cover. It gives me a whole Frankenstein vibe for some reasons (that's not what the story is about though) and I love the the colour palette. It what makes me want to read this book in the first place. Book cover first, plot later (lol).

The horror in this book is not entirely my favourite (I'll tell more why) but I do appreciate the direction that the author is going for in this book. I specifically find the death loops intriguing.

Undeniably so, there were also some other things that fell short and doesn't work for me.

Underdeveloped world-building. The book is short which made it super easy to read and get it over with but the world-building is poorly wirtten. The atmosphere of the novel was inconsistent because there wasn't much to latch onto at the start, and the author didn't provide enough information to grasp Jake's condition. I don't think I truly understand the death world this book is trying to portray. Especially when it suddenly involved Jake's ancestors. Or why Jake can see ghosts and deem as powerful or Sawyer's equal.

The concept of possession and dreams in horror books is actually not my cup of tea. The book starts great. However, after few pages, I found the story to be quite flat. And honestly, I was kind of bored not until the plot picks up again towards the end. It's not the author fault though, just a matter of preferences (I guess?)

Allister's presence in Jake's life seems didactic and abrupt. Even when the book does not put their relationship as the main focus, I still feel theirs as insta-love. Therefore, I don't really feel any sort of connection between the two simultaneously making the queer representation felt scant.

Characters. As much as I would complain about a one-dimensional character, this book is being far-fetched because Sawyer is so complex and multifaceted that the proffered discussions in his chapters are insufficient. Gun control, school massacres, and mental health are all issues that need to be tackled outside of the private matter but were done poorly. Meanwhile, not much can be gained for Jake as a character either. All readers would get besides being a boy who can see ghost is an anxious and gay person. It is pretty disappointing.

I am not sure if reading thriller and horror book consecutively is why I didn't find myself enjoying this as I expected myself to be (especially when your previous read was better). I truly wanted to love the book I do, but I couldn't find myself entirely impressed.
]]> Bright Ruined Things 56269153
But tonight is First Night, when the Prospers and their high-society friends return to the island to celebrate the night Lord Prosper first harnessed the island’s magic and started producing aether – a magical fuel source that has revolutionized the world. With everyone returning to the island, Mae finally has the chance to go after what she’s always wanted.

When the spirits start inexplicably dying, Mae starts to realize that things aren’t what they seem. And Ivo, the reclusive, mysterious heir to the Prosper magic, may hold all the answers – including a secret about Mae’s past that she doesn’t remember. As Mae and her friends begin to unravel the mysteries of the island, and the Prospers’ magic, Mae starts to question the truth of what her world was built on.

Forbidden magic, a family secret, and a night to reveal it all...]]> 352 Samantha Cohoe 1250768845 aly 1 The Tempest, Bright Ruined Things told the story of Mae who lives on the mysterious island ruled over by Lord Prosper and his descendants. Left as an orphan with no means of financial aid, this book is filled with all the social politics and class struggles as Mae is suddenly thrown into the intrigue and maneuvering of the Prosper family, falling into a marriage plan with the oldest grandchild, Ivo.

Frankly speaking, I have not read The Tempest so I could not compare — though I kind of get the gist from the summary I read online. So, take whatever I'm about to say with grains and salts as I'm judging it purely by my enjoyment and based on the book independently.

To start, I love the setting and the vibes it presents despite it being a bit vague. What was supposed to take over during the 1920s, was given a bit of modern touch, taking me on a trip down memory lane with the Great Gatsby. The mystery and magic surrounding the book are rather enchanting. However, the entire premise of the book that was supposed to intellectually engage the reader to try to "get the answer" to the conflict was put down the drain with the unlikeable characters and dilettante writing.

As a character-driven person, character growth is one of the favorite things I love to discover but I could not seem to find myself staying longer to witness that. I admitted guilty for a lot of skipping paragraphs and chapters after the 40% mark. Aside from the antipathy characters of the Prosper family, who tend to be vain and selfish, Mae's character was also hard to get into. Even though it only seems fitting considering that she never left the island; the naivety, and the underdeveloped thought processes rub me the wrong way. After all, unreliable narrators have never been in my good grace.

Not to say, despite the effort to apport all the side characters into having equal screen time — given the essence of standalone, Bright Ruined Things suffered from a vast cast consequently, delivering a poor world-building as everything was squeezed in at once. I did love the magic system, and the book is mostly straightforward and scanty in terms of its plot but a lot of thought was put into the family drama, leaving only a fragment of what was supposed to be a magical world.

Despite the attempt at romance, it gets bogged down and heavy-handed; the story would have been better served without it. The author seems to not know where to go with the book for most of it, by shifting all the love interests from time to time, it just doesn't seem appealing anymore.

Well, with all the flaws, things could have been saved if we have above decent writing for this one. I know authors will always have room to grow in the future, which I hope will ensue in Cohoe's next few works as I find this one lethargic. There was no flow from one scene to another and it always felt suspended to a degree. Reading this feels like you're baked because everything just got so disconcerting.

While I like that this book is original and unprecedented, it still does not shield the utter disappointment I had. There are no repercussions for actions that are morally reprehensible, the minimal character development feels unearned and implausible, and we were not even permitted to unfold what is more to the story. I hate that the cover is too beautiful to be true, I want my refund back!]]> 3.45 2022 Bright Ruined Things
author: Samantha Cohoe
name: aly
average rating: 3.45
book published: 2022
rating: 1
read at: 2022/05/27
date added: 2025/06/06
shelves:
review:
Based on Shakespeare's The Tempest, Bright Ruined Things told the story of Mae who lives on the mysterious island ruled over by Lord Prosper and his descendants. Left as an orphan with no means of financial aid, this book is filled with all the social politics and class struggles as Mae is suddenly thrown into the intrigue and maneuvering of the Prosper family, falling into a marriage plan with the oldest grandchild, Ivo.

Frankly speaking, I have not read The Tempest so I could not compare — though I kind of get the gist from the summary I read online. So, take whatever I'm about to say with grains and salts as I'm judging it purely by my enjoyment and based on the book independently.

To start, I love the setting and the vibes it presents despite it being a bit vague. What was supposed to take over during the 1920s, was given a bit of modern touch, taking me on a trip down memory lane with the Great Gatsby. The mystery and magic surrounding the book are rather enchanting. However, the entire premise of the book that was supposed to intellectually engage the reader to try to "get the answer" to the conflict was put down the drain with the unlikeable characters and dilettante writing.

As a character-driven person, character growth is one of the favorite things I love to discover but I could not seem to find myself staying longer to witness that. I admitted guilty for a lot of skipping paragraphs and chapters after the 40% mark. Aside from the antipathy characters of the Prosper family, who tend to be vain and selfish, Mae's character was also hard to get into. Even though it only seems fitting considering that she never left the island; the naivety, and the underdeveloped thought processes rub me the wrong way. After all, unreliable narrators have never been in my good grace.

Not to say, despite the effort to apport all the side characters into having equal screen time — given the essence of standalone, Bright Ruined Things suffered from a vast cast consequently, delivering a poor world-building as everything was squeezed in at once. I did love the magic system, and the book is mostly straightforward and scanty in terms of its plot but a lot of thought was put into the family drama, leaving only a fragment of what was supposed to be a magical world.

Despite the attempt at romance, it gets bogged down and heavy-handed; the story would have been better served without it. The author seems to not know where to go with the book for most of it, by shifting all the love interests from time to time, it just doesn't seem appealing anymore.

Well, with all the flaws, things could have been saved if we have above decent writing for this one. I know authors will always have room to grow in the future, which I hope will ensue in Cohoe's next few works as I find this one lethargic. There was no flow from one scene to another and it always felt suspended to a degree. Reading this feels like you're baked because everything just got so disconcerting.

While I like that this book is original and unprecedented, it still does not shield the utter disappointment I had. There are no repercussions for actions that are morally reprehensible, the minimal character development feels unearned and implausible, and we were not even permitted to unfold what is more to the story. I hate that the cover is too beautiful to be true, I want my refund back!
]]> <![CDATA[It Happened One Summer (Bellinger Sisters, #1)]]> 55659629
Piper hasn’t even been in Westport for five minutes when she meets big, bearded sea captain Brendan, who thinks she won’t last a week outside of Beverly Hills. So what if Piper can’t do math, and the idea of sleeping in a shabby apartment with bunk beds gives her hives. How bad could it really be? She’s determined to show her stepfather—and the hot, grumpy local—that she’s more than a pretty face.

Except it’s a small town and everywhere she turns, she bumps into Brendan. The fun-loving socialite and the gruff fisherman are polar opposites, but there’s an undeniable attraction simmering between them. Piper doesn’t want any distractions, especially feelings for a man who sails off into the sunset for weeks at a time. Yet as she reconnects with her past and begins to feel at home in Westport, Piper starts to wonder if the cold, glamorous life she knew is what she truly wants. LA is calling her name, but Brendan—and this town full of memories—may have already caught her heart. 

Tessa Bailey is back with a Schitt’s Creek-inspired rom-com about a Hollywood “It Girl” who is cut off from her wealthy family and exiled to a small Pacific Northwest beach town... where she butts heads with a surly, sexy local who thinks she doesn’t belong. ]]> 397 Tessa Bailey 0063045656 aly 5
The characters are also easily likeable and fun. I wouldn't think the spoiled rich girl would succeed in making me love the book, but Tessa Bailey made it work. And I wouldn't want Piper any other way. She is endearing, loyal, and is just full of love, it makes my heart whole. While Brendan might start on the wrong foot, with his grumpiness and no-nonsense attitude, he did come around in loving Piper the way she is. He is sensitive, caring and overall affectionate.

This also brings me to point out the romance which is definitely off the chart. They start antagonistic especially with their opposite personalities but the chemistry between the characters made this a super easy read. It was lovely to watch these two grow since they both needed soul searching. But I especially liked how they did it together and understood each other in a way that no one else could.

It Happened One Summer also highlights the phoniness of social media and the significance of love and family. Moving to Westport, being financially cut off, and connecting with Brendan make Piper question her extravagant lifestyle. It gets her to think about what she truly wants (and deserves), and to learn live in the real world. You can see Piper changing herself along the way and develop into a more wonderful person.

Overall, this book has been fantastic, and I don't think I would want to change any of it. Plus, this is a small-town romance, which means that a lot of care went into developing the setting and the residents of the town/side characters. It’s a great book to lose yourself in. I couldn't wait for the spin-off (´∀`)

ps: All of other Tessa Bailey's book fell off after this one, and I'm not sure I even want to reread this book to figure out whether I was just blindsided or if this is truly her only great novel]]> 3.91 2021 It Happened One Summer (Bellinger Sisters, #1)
author: Tessa Bailey
name: aly
average rating: 3.91
book published: 2021
rating: 5
read at: 2021/08/04
date added: 2025/06/06
shelves:
review:
This is officially the best contemporary romance I've read this year (2021)! And if you happened to dislike this, or find it 'just average,' I simply couldn't trust you because It Happened One Summer is upright a perfection. The story is very heartfelt and entertaining, I cried and laughed at how diverting this book has been.

The characters are also easily likeable and fun. I wouldn't think the spoiled rich girl would succeed in making me love the book, but Tessa Bailey made it work. And I wouldn't want Piper any other way. She is endearing, loyal, and is just full of love, it makes my heart whole. While Brendan might start on the wrong foot, with his grumpiness and no-nonsense attitude, he did come around in loving Piper the way she is. He is sensitive, caring and overall affectionate.

This also brings me to point out the romance which is definitely off the chart. They start antagonistic especially with their opposite personalities but the chemistry between the characters made this a super easy read. It was lovely to watch these two grow since they both needed soul searching. But I especially liked how they did it together and understood each other in a way that no one else could.

It Happened One Summer also highlights the phoniness of social media and the significance of love and family. Moving to Westport, being financially cut off, and connecting with Brendan make Piper question her extravagant lifestyle. It gets her to think about what she truly wants (and deserves), and to learn live in the real world. You can see Piper changing herself along the way and develop into a more wonderful person.

Overall, this book has been fantastic, and I don't think I would want to change any of it. Plus, this is a small-town romance, which means that a lot of care went into developing the setting and the residents of the town/side characters. It’s a great book to lose yourself in. I couldn't wait for the spin-off (´∀`)

ps: All of other Tessa Bailey's book fell off after this one, and I'm not sure I even want to reread this book to figure out whether I was just blindsided or if this is truly her only great novel
]]> The Party 214397196 An irresistible novella about two sisters and a night that changes everything, from the master chronicler of our heart’s hidden desires.

Evelyn had the surprising thought that bodies were sometimes wiser than the people inside them. She’d have liked to impress somebody with this idea, but couldn’t explain it.

On a winter Saturday night in post-war Bristol, sisters Moira and Evelyn, on the cusp of adulthood, go to an art students’ party in a dockside pub; there they meet two men, Paul and Sinden, whose air of worldliness and sophistication both intrigues and repels them. Sinden calls a few days later to invite them over to the grand suburban mansion Paul shares with his brother and sister, and Moira accepts despite Evelyn’s misgivings.

As the night unfolds in this unfamiliar, glamorous new setting, the sisters learn things about themselves and each other that shock them, and release them into a new phase of their lives.]]> 111 Tessa Hadley 1529949300 aly 0 to-read 3.31 2024 The Party
author: Tessa Hadley
name: aly
average rating: 3.31
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/06/05
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> The Wall of Winnipeg and Me 29852207 665 Mariana Zapata 0990429245 aly 2
However, I don't think I could put it past me on the book's length. I had no idea that when they said the book is a slow burn, it's literally the slowest slow burn I've come across. It was painfully slow and unnecessary long which is why I couldn't find myself loving it as much as I wanted to.

I devoured every scene but I think it wouldn't jeopardize the plot if some scenes were taken out. I wished the author would try to simplify it more. Although with long chapters, the characters and the romance are undeniably written in a full-fledged; which I should credit the author for. I've come to love both of their flaws and strengths as well as how the romance develop between the two.

Regardless so, I was hoping we would get Aiden's POV. I really wanna know when was the time he started to fall for Vanessa and the fact that his character is super stoic most of the time is why the long chapter didn't work out for me. They were adorable and too sweet but at the same time, I wanted to get more from Aiden. I've come to acknowlege why he is the way he is, but this is where his POV would come to aid. Even though they weren't much reactions from his part, at least I get to know what was going on in that thick head of his as most of his actions earlier did not justified and I still find him a bit asshole-ish.

For all I know, I like the book; just not enough for me to rate this higher. I don't see myself rereading it too. But hey! I am better thoughtful and composed when I give it a few days, so we'll see how this book will end up standing.

Update:
After giving it a few thought, I will stick with my rating. I still think the book put 'slow burn' as its centrepiece but at the end, lack a main plot (or the slow burn is not enough to carry the whole plot). And when you've read romance in a stretch, this is not something new you'll encounter. It was good but to an extent, lackluster.]]> 4.27 2016 The Wall of Winnipeg and Me
author: Mariana Zapata
name: aly
average rating: 4.27
book published: 2016
rating: 2
read at: 2022/01/04
date added: 2025/06/05
shelves:
review:
I know some of you may be making faces and be wondering what the hell is wrong with this girl? But hear me out: I enjoyed the book. I laughed, I cried, I get mad and I've come to love Vanessa as well as Aiden.

However, I don't think I could put it past me on the book's length. I had no idea that when they said the book is a slow burn, it's literally the slowest slow burn I've come across. It was painfully slow and unnecessary long which is why I couldn't find myself loving it as much as I wanted to.

I devoured every scene but I think it wouldn't jeopardize the plot if some scenes were taken out. I wished the author would try to simplify it more. Although with long chapters, the characters and the romance are undeniably written in a full-fledged; which I should credit the author for. I've come to love both of their flaws and strengths as well as how the romance develop between the two.

Regardless so, I was hoping we would get Aiden's POV. I really wanna know when was the time he started to fall for Vanessa and the fact that his character is super stoic most of the time is why the long chapter didn't work out for me. They were adorable and too sweet but at the same time, I wanted to get more from Aiden. I've come to acknowlege why he is the way he is, but this is where his POV would come to aid. Even though they weren't much reactions from his part, at least I get to know what was going on in that thick head of his as most of his actions earlier did not justified and I still find him a bit asshole-ish.

For all I know, I like the book; just not enough for me to rate this higher. I don't see myself rereading it too. But hey! I am better thoughtful and composed when I give it a few days, so we'll see how this book will end up standing.

Update:
After giving it a few thought, I will stick with my rating. I still think the book put 'slow burn' as its centrepiece but at the end, lack a main plot (or the slow burn is not enough to carry the whole plot). And when you've read romance in a stretch, this is not something new you'll encounter. It was good but to an extent, lackluster.
]]> <![CDATA[The Bride Test (The Kiss Quotient, #2)]]> 39338454 Continuação de Os números do amor, O teste do casamento é uma história apaixonante sobre um romance que cruza fronteiras entre os países e os limites do coração.

Khai Diep não tem sentimentos. Bom, ele fica irritado quando mexem nas suas coisas e satisfeito quando os centavos são incluídos nos livros contábeis, mas não consegue vivenciar nenhum sentimento profundo, como luto ou amor. Ele acha que tem algum problema, mas sua família sabe que, por ser autista, ele processa as coisas de um jeito diferente e tem dificuldade com as emoções. Como Khai se recusa a arrumar uma namorada, sua mãe resolve viajar ao Vietnã para encontrar a noiva perfeita para ele.

Sendo birracial em Hồ Chí Minh, Esme Tran sempre se sentiu deslocada. Quando surge a oportunidade de ir para os EUA e conhecer um possível marido, ela sabe que não pode recusar, pois é a chance de mudar a realidade de sua família. Mas seduzir Khai não sai como o planejado. E assim ela se apaixona por um homem que está convencido de que não pode retribuir seu afeto.

O tempo de Esme nos EUA está se esgotando. Será que Khai vai admitir que estava errado, e que pode haver mais de uma maneira de amar, antes que seja tarde demais?]]> 320 Helen Hoang 0451490827 aly 3
Plot-wise, I enjoyed this one more than the Kiss Quotient. The overall premise is very spot on— the immigrant's story, typically arranged marriage move (by your truly Asian mom). However, the execution was off and disappointing.

It's been acknowledged that Khai is autistic and laboured no "sexual" feelings for how many women he has seen thus far (that's the gist that I got from it anyway). But as soon as he saw Esme, he is attracted and suddenly had these lewd thoughts he never had before. Their meetings were so insta-love based, Esme and Kai didn't come close to being as adorable and romantic as Michael and Stella. The two leads lacked chemistry and fell flat as separate characters.

The conflict in this book is not as lousy but not so great either since it's rooted in the characters themselves (mostly Esme) which means that it could have been easily dissolved if she wasn't as dense. I do sympathize with Esme and my heart goes out for her, especially knowing it must be hard to be in a foreign country with no one else to rely on.

Nonetheless, Esme is too naive and selfish for my liking. I understand if she wasn't aware of Khai's condition since no one was telling her about it in the first place but that's not the case after Khai finally came forward. You're supposed to love this man yet does not bother to look up what autism is or come up with something that could help him. She was too much immersed with her feelings and pity party, she unknowingly became selfish; especially with the insistence to have Khai saying "I love you" back. It was apparent with the constant care, pamper and worrying but no! Say 'I love you' or there was no love. I felt for her plight I do, but it still does not make her any less selfish and manipulative, I'm sorry (´д｀).

Meanwhile, Khai character does not give the care it deserves , particularly with how confusing he is. We are all aware he is autistic, but this was more say than show. Stella's autism was written delicately but the same could not be said for Khai. His mannerisms and thoughts were reasonable but using his inept behaviour seemed too convenient and ludicrous to the plot. Unfortunately, the main characters in this are quite baffled. Everything about this book seems a bit too timely.

And as always, Helen Hoang's ending is always so rushed. Even as a character > plot person, I am surprised that I still do find myself enjoying this one but the sprint towards the ending kind of snapped the almost connection that I had with the book/character. If Hoang could put more effort into building up the conflict to resolution, I believe it would have been great.

In a sense, I would enjoy this one better if I wasn't introduced to Stella/Michael story first which is why this book is a bit letdown. Regardless of the minor issues, it doesn't entirely take my enjoyment from reading this one. It's quirky, funny and uplifting!]]> 3.80 2019 The Bride Test (The Kiss Quotient, #2)
author: Helen Hoang
name: aly
average rating: 3.80
book published: 2019
rating: 3
read at: 2021/09/02
date added: 2025/06/04
shelves:
review:
Helen Hoang did it again. Love the diversity as well as the representation! Her book is always so easy to read, very fast-paced, engaging and foremost, never failed to make me shed tears. Every! Single! Time!

Plot-wise, I enjoyed this one more than the Kiss Quotient. The overall premise is very spot on— the immigrant's story, typically arranged marriage move (by your truly Asian mom). However, the execution was off and disappointing.

It's been acknowledged that Khai is autistic and laboured no "sexual" feelings for how many women he has seen thus far (that's the gist that I got from it anyway). But as soon as he saw Esme, he is attracted and suddenly had these lewd thoughts he never had before. Their meetings were so insta-love based, Esme and Kai didn't come close to being as adorable and romantic as Michael and Stella. The two leads lacked chemistry and fell flat as separate characters.

The conflict in this book is not as lousy but not so great either since it's rooted in the characters themselves (mostly Esme) which means that it could have been easily dissolved if she wasn't as dense. I do sympathize with Esme and my heart goes out for her, especially knowing it must be hard to be in a foreign country with no one else to rely on.

Nonetheless, Esme is too naive and selfish for my liking. I understand if she wasn't aware of Khai's condition since no one was telling her about it in the first place but that's not the case after Khai finally came forward. You're supposed to love this man yet does not bother to look up what autism is or come up with something that could help him. She was too much immersed with her feelings and pity party, she unknowingly became selfish; especially with the insistence to have Khai saying "I love you" back. It was apparent with the constant care, pamper and worrying but no! Say 'I love you' or there was no love. I felt for her plight I do, but it still does not make her any less selfish and manipulative, I'm sorry (´д｀).

Meanwhile, Khai character does not give the care it deserves , particularly with how confusing he is. We are all aware he is autistic, but this was more say than show. Stella's autism was written delicately but the same could not be said for Khai. His mannerisms and thoughts were reasonable but using his inept behaviour seemed too convenient and ludicrous to the plot. Unfortunately, the main characters in this are quite baffled. Everything about this book seems a bit too timely.

And as always, Helen Hoang's ending is always so rushed. Even as a character > plot person, I am surprised that I still do find myself enjoying this one but the sprint towards the ending kind of snapped the almost connection that I had with the book/character. If Hoang could put more effort into building up the conflict to resolution, I believe it would have been great.

In a sense, I would enjoy this one better if I wasn't introduced to Stella/Michael story first which is why this book is a bit letdown. Regardless of the minor issues, it doesn't entirely take my enjoyment from reading this one. It's quirky, funny and uplifting!
]]> The Obsession 51260845 A classic sort of love story... except somebody might wind up dead.

Nobody knows Delilah like Logan does. Nobody. He makes sure of it by learning everything he can through her social media and watching her through a hidden camera he has trained on her house. Some might call him a stalker. Logan prefers to be called “romantic.”

But after Logan sees Delilah killing her abusive stepfather, he realizes there’s still more about her to discover. His sweet, perfect Delilah isn’t so perfect after all.

Delilah knows she should feel guilty, but all she feels is free. She’s so over the men in her life controlling her. Except Logan saw what she did, and he won’t let her forget it.

Delilah is done being the victim. And she refuses to be a character in Logan’s twisted fantasy. If Logan won’t let her go… she’ll make him.]]> 309 Jesse Q. Sutanto 1728215161 aly 3 (This review contain a major spoiler in the ending)

How are you not lure in as soon as you read the blurb? A classic sort of love story… except somebody might wind up dead — yeah, I am sold! Told in a dual POV, The Obsession manages to bring me into such a rollercoaster ride for how suspenseful and suffocating it was before it breaks me.

What I like best about this book is how Sutanto created two distinct main characters who are allegorically similar. With all of his delusions and obsessions towards Sophie and Dee, you can see how sick Logan is as he was written in such a way to convince us that he is the deranged one. Meanwhile, we were made to sympathize with Dee for her misfortunes, only to realize later that she may not be as morally astute as we originally thought. Even though her trauma almost justified her acts, the ending made it difficult for me to be in the same wavelength as her (*I'll get back to the ending later).

However, it was a bit difficult for me to get into the book at first, which I think may have to do with the prosaic writing. In a way, you may interpret this as an attempt to exhibit that the narrative was told by a teenager, as well as the jist on what transpires in the brain of someone who is sick in his figment of imagination — that also then includes lots of monologues, consequently made it appear tedious and repetitive. Like, I do enjoy Logan's unhinged thoughts or Dee's tainted brain, it's just that I wish the story was told more engagingly.

The other thing that left me at sixes and sevens was the history between Logan and Sophie as they weren't given a solid establishment. It feels like there was a piece in their story that was missing as I do not know what's their real deal or how it supposed to serve the present timeframe. What more when you consider that Logan is such an unreliable narrator. This may be intentional though but it also made the story a bit disjointed.

Now getting back to the ending: as much as most personality disorders are constant and unrelenting, and very hard to cure, Logan deserves help than being used as revenge. The attempt to pin Logan’s behavior on a mental illness doesn’t sit right with me either since some people are perfectly awful without being mentally ill. This part truly breaks me, especially when you denote the hurts Logan feels when he realized what was done to him. Although I don't suppose that is the goal because as much as the novel succeeds as a thriller, it falls short as a cautionary tale on delineating telling the truth as most mystery/thriller books do.

Still and all, this doesn't take away the pleasure of reading this book. I believe it'll be a memorable one and I'm not sure if I can even recover for how this book ends. This also makes me exhilarated to start Dial A for Aunties and The New Girl to see the range in Sutanto's writing as I've been hearing good different appraises.]]> 3.71 2021 The Obsession
author: Jesse Q. Sutanto
name: aly
average rating: 3.71
book published: 2021
rating: 3
read at: 2022/02/07
date added: 2025/06/04
shelves:
review:
(This review contain a major spoiler in the ending)

How are you not lure in as soon as you read the blurb? A classic sort of love story… except somebody might wind up dead — yeah, I am sold! Told in a dual POV, The Obsession manages to bring me into such a rollercoaster ride for how suspenseful and suffocating it was before it breaks me.

What I like best about this book is how Sutanto created two distinct main characters who are allegorically similar. With all of his delusions and obsessions towards Sophie and Dee, you can see how sick Logan is as he was written in such a way to convince us that he is the deranged one. Meanwhile, we were made to sympathize with Dee for her misfortunes, only to realize later that she may not be as morally astute as we originally thought. Even though her trauma almost justified her acts, the ending made it difficult for me to be in the same wavelength as her (*I'll get back to the ending later).

However, it was a bit difficult for me to get into the book at first, which I think may have to do with the prosaic writing. In a way, you may interpret this as an attempt to exhibit that the narrative was told by a teenager, as well as the jist on what transpires in the brain of someone who is sick in his figment of imagination — that also then includes lots of monologues, consequently made it appear tedious and repetitive. Like, I do enjoy Logan's unhinged thoughts or Dee's tainted brain, it's just that I wish the story was told more engagingly.

The other thing that left me at sixes and sevens was the history between Logan and Sophie as they weren't given a solid establishment. It feels like there was a piece in their story that was missing as I do not know what's their real deal or how it supposed to serve the present timeframe. What more when you consider that Logan is such an unreliable narrator. This may be intentional though but it also made the story a bit disjointed.

Now getting back to the ending: as much as most personality disorders are constant and unrelenting, and very hard to cure, Logan deserves help than being used as revenge. The attempt to pin Logan’s behavior on a mental illness doesn’t sit right with me either since some people are perfectly awful without being mentally ill. This part truly breaks me, especially when you denote the hurts Logan feels when he realized what was done to him. Although I don't suppose that is the goal because as much as the novel succeeds as a thriller, it falls short as a cautionary tale on delineating telling the truth as most mystery/thriller books do.

Still and all, this doesn't take away the pleasure of reading this book. I believe it'll be a memorable one and I'm not sure if I can even recover for how this book ends. This also makes me exhilarated to start Dial A for Aunties and The New Girl to see the range in Sutanto's writing as I've been hearing good different appraises.
]]> Sheets (Sheets, #1) 38958846
Wendell is a ghost. A boy who lost his life much too young, his daily routine features ineffective death therapy, a sheet-dependent identity, and a dangerous need to seek purpose in the forbidden human world.

When their worlds collide, Marjorie is confronted by unexplainable disasters as Wendell transforms Glatt’s Laundry into his midnight playground, appearing as a mere sheet during the day. While Wendell attempts to create a new afterlife for himself, he unknowingly sabotages the life that Marjorie is struggling to maintain.]]> 242 Brenna Thummler 194130267X aly 3
Even so, as vibrant as it looks, Sheets is an emotional journey through loss, depression, friendship, and fear. Trying to get through middle school with no friends and run the family laundry with no aid, while your father is grieving is a huge load to bear.

It's unmistakable, with the heartbreaking plot, this novel came off a bit slow and might stall your drive to continue reading this. Marjorie's sadness and pain are palpable, but the book never becomes overbearing. I'd say, pick this up for it's lovely and adorably spooky theme.

I also love the message how when all seems lost, hope is still there!
(p/s: bringing Wendell home with me as I speak!)]]> 3.84 2018 Sheets (Sheets, #1)
author: Brenna Thummler
name: aly
average rating: 3.84
book published: 2018
rating: 3
read at: 2022/03/27
date added: 2025/06/03
shelves:
review:
Aw, I enjoy this book. The scenery and the colour palette incorporating the violet hues is my absolute favourite albeit the human illustration being something I'm not really fond of.

Even so, as vibrant as it looks, Sheets is an emotional journey through loss, depression, friendship, and fear. Trying to get through middle school with no friends and run the family laundry with no aid, while your father is grieving is a huge load to bear.

It's unmistakable, with the heartbreaking plot, this novel came off a bit slow and might stall your drive to continue reading this. Marjorie's sadness and pain are palpable, but the book never becomes overbearing. I'd say, pick this up for it's lovely and adorably spooky theme.

I also love the message how when all seems lost, hope is still there!
(p/s: bringing Wendell home with me as I speak!)
]]> <![CDATA[A Good Girl's Guide to Murder (A Good Girl's Guide to Murder, #1)]]> 40916679
Pretty and popular high school senior Andie Bell was murdered by her boyfriend, Sal Singh, who then killed himself. It was all anyone could talk about. And five years later, Pip sees how the tragedy still haunts her town.

But she can't shake the feeling that there was more to what happened that day. She knew Sal when she was a child, and he was always so kind to her. How could he possibly have been a killer?

Now a senior herself, Pip decides to reexamine the closed case for her final project, at first just to cast doubt on the original investigation. But soon she discovers a trail of dark secrets that might actually prove Sal innocent . . . and the line between past and present begins to blur. Someone in Fairview doesn't want Pip digging around for answers, and now her own life might be in danger.]]> 433 Holly Jackson 1405293187 aly 4
I haven't read many mystery and thriller books to be coming to this conclusion. However, a pattern that I've discovered from a book that seeks to discover the truth about a guilty person being innocent is how the investigator tries to learn as much as possible about the victim (obviously) so they could pin another plausible murder suspect.

And what I don't like about this particular part is when they opted for a victim-blaming narrative; painting them as problematic. You know, as if to say their death was something called for due to how they are behaving. Because I believe in any case of murder, the only right person to be held responsible is the murderer. Therefore, I am glad that Holly Jackson did not misrecknoning as some mystery thriller authors I had encounter. Even though Andie is not upright an honourable person, the book shows that part of her behaviour is not entirely her fault and is due to her toxic upbringing.

On a side note, I know Pippa has what it needs to be an investigator. You can see her discretion, affability and ingenuity. However, many of her ways of obtaining information or clues happened to be (mostly) purely coincidental and luck-based. And so this part kind of ripped the satisfaction when Pippa get to solve the problem.

Consequently, as a character-driven reader, Pippa character may be looking one dimensional because aside from being the good girl, who is a smartypants and love homework, there was not much you could get from her character. Even so, I still enjoy reading her character and find some of her antics to be amusing, especially when she is with Ravi.

Ravi also just happened to be an equal favourite of mine. I love the dynamic between the two (both in friendship & relationship) because it was well constructed. And even when the book does not focus on romance, I find the moments between the two to be heart fluttering and sweet.

Best to say, Holly Jackson now had me in her grip.

[3.75/5]]]> 4.29 2019 A Good Girl's Guide to Murder (A Good Girl's Guide to Murder, #1)
author: Holly Jackson
name: aly
average rating: 4.29
book published: 2019
rating: 4
read at: 2021/07/14
date added: 2025/06/02
shelves:
review:
A Good Girl's Guide to Murder is a brilliant page-turner thriller that is jam-packed with unexpected suspects and mind-bending twists and turns that will keep readers wondering until the very end. I love how this book was written. It is very organized and I enjoyed the book format that interchanges the usual narration with transcription and production log which manages to make the book different and exciting.

I haven't read many mystery and thriller books to be coming to this conclusion. However, a pattern that I've discovered from a book that seeks to discover the truth about a guilty person being innocent is how the investigator tries to learn as much as possible about the victim (obviously) so they could pin another plausible murder suspect.

And what I don't like about this particular part is when they opted for a victim-blaming narrative; painting them as problematic. You know, as if to say their death was something called for due to how they are behaving. Because I believe in any case of murder, the only right person to be held responsible is the murderer. Therefore, I am glad that Holly Jackson did not misrecknoning as some mystery thriller authors I had encounter. Even though Andie is not upright an honourable person, the book shows that part of her behaviour is not entirely her fault and is due to her toxic upbringing.

On a side note, I know Pippa has what it needs to be an investigator. You can see her discretion, affability and ingenuity. However, many of her ways of obtaining information or clues happened to be (mostly) purely coincidental and luck-based. And so this part kind of ripped the satisfaction when Pippa get to solve the problem.

Consequently, as a character-driven reader, Pippa character may be looking one dimensional because aside from being the good girl, who is a smartypants and love homework, there was not much you could get from her character. Even so, I still enjoy reading her character and find some of her antics to be amusing, especially when she is with Ravi.

Ravi also just happened to be an equal favourite of mine. I love the dynamic between the two (both in friendship & relationship) because it was well constructed. And even when the book does not focus on romance, I find the moments between the two to be heart fluttering and sweet.

Best to say, Holly Jackson now had me in her grip.

[3.75/5]
]]> <![CDATA[A Ruin of Roses (Deliciously Dark Fairytales, #1)]]> 58785677 A spicy new twist on an old classic - a deliciously dark Beauty and the Beast reimagining.

I could save him, but he would ruin me.

The beast.
The creature that stalks the forbidden wood.
The dragon prince.

He has suffered a fate worse than death. We all have. A curse put upon us by the mad king.

We are a kingdom locked in time. Shifters unable to feel our animals. Stuck here by a deal between the late king and a demon who seeks our destruction.

The only one keeping this kingdom alive is Nyfain, the golden prince to a stolen throne. The last dragon shifter.

He’s our hope.
He’s my nightmare.

When he catches me trespassing in the forbidden wood, he doesn’t punish me with death, as he’s entitled.

He takes me, instead. Forces me back to the castle as his prisoner. Seeks to use me.

Apparently, I can save him. I can save the whole forgotten kingdom, locked away by the demon king’s power.

But it would mean taming the monster beneath his skin. It would mean giving myself to him.

It would mean my ruin.

_ _ _ _ _ _

This is a dark and sexy Beauty and the Beast retelling, featuring a strong heroine, a dangerous anti-hero, and a humorous supporting cast. It is a full-length novel at 80k words and suitable for 18+. This is the beginning of a trilogy and ends on a cliffhanger. Buckle up. The author was let off her leash.]]> 386 K.F. Breene aly 2
Sadly, this doesn't last long as I started to find the writing juvenile and it does not align with the adult characters, making it quite hard to read. I couldn't take the immaturity. The world-building was a bit messy (I'm giving the benefit of the doubt since this is a first book to the series which may explain why) and the plot was barely existent except for the general concept you'll get from a B&tB retelling. I was bored half through because it later delved into erotic scenes that bring nothing to the plot development.

I was also expecting a different kind of story given the summary but the storyline be a different kettle of fish. The romance was off (I blame the insta-lust) and the characters dynamic fell flat. A thing that might appeal readers would probably be the snarky sense of humour in the dialogues but I find the crude language overbearing. I'm all for excessive language or sex whatever, but please at cross purposes. This book was all just dirty talks and sex but no build-up.

I was surprised to see the high ratings this book has because frankly speaking, it was kinda horrible. I don't think I was being a prude by saying this but in a sense, I get that the right audience would enjoy this. All bad talk aside, since the story didn't end with the curse being broken, I still kind of find myself intrigued with how the story would unfold in the next book.

UPDATE:
Just maybe, I am not really intrigued anymore. Life's too short to spare for books you don't even like LMAO]]> 3.83 2021 A Ruin of Roses (Deliciously Dark Fairytales, #1)
author: K.F. Breene
name: aly
average rating: 3.83
book published: 2021
rating: 2
read at: 2021/10/19
date added: 2025/06/02
shelves:
review:
Anyone would say "Beauty and the Beast" and I know I would read it in a beat. This book sounds so promising with enemies to lovers, anti-hero accompanied by dark and spicy shapeshifter concept. The book started great and it was an easy and fast read for me. I know I would love this one.

Sadly, this doesn't last long as I started to find the writing juvenile and it does not align with the adult characters, making it quite hard to read. I couldn't take the immaturity. The world-building was a bit messy (I'm giving the benefit of the doubt since this is a first book to the series which may explain why) and the plot was barely existent except for the general concept you'll get from a B&tB retelling. I was bored half through because it later delved into erotic scenes that bring nothing to the plot development.

I was also expecting a different kind of story given the summary but the storyline be a different kettle of fish. The romance was off (I blame the insta-lust) and the characters dynamic fell flat. A thing that might appeal readers would probably be the snarky sense of humour in the dialogues but I find the crude language overbearing. I'm all for excessive language or sex whatever, but please at cross purposes. This book was all just dirty talks and sex but no build-up.

I was surprised to see the high ratings this book has because frankly speaking, it was kinda horrible. I don't think I was being a prude by saying this but in a sense, I get that the right audience would enjoy this. All bad talk aside, since the story didn't end with the curse being broken, I still kind of find myself intrigued with how the story would unfold in the next book.

UPDATE:
Just maybe, I am not really intrigued anymore. Life's too short to spare for books you don't even like LMAO
]]> Lemon 56773168
Seventeen years pass without any resolution for those who knew and loved Hae-on, and the grief and uncertainty take a cruel toll on her younger sister, Da-on, in particular. Unable to move on with her life, Da-on tries in her own twisted way to recover some of what she's lost, ultimately setting out to find the truth of what happened.

Told at different points in time from the perspectives of Da-on and two of Hae-on's classmates, Lemon loosely follows the structure of a detective novel. But finding the perpetrator is not the main objective here. Instead, the work explores grief and trauma, raising important questions about guilt, retribution, and the meaning of death and life.]]> 176 Kwon Yeo-Sun aly 3
"Back then, I'd thought that we'd finally escaped. Survived. But I was wrong. We hadn't returned at all"

The aftermath of the High School Beauty Murder — an unsolved crime that has plagued Korea for seventeen years, is vividly described by Kwon Yeo-sun in her compelling story. "Lemon" is a biting exploration of privilege, envy, trauma, and the lingering effects of the wrongs suffered and done, told from the viewpoints of Da-on and two of Hae-on's classmates.

While with the right expectations in, this book fell short for some reasons. Undeniably, the book engages in heartfelt self-reflection — meticulously exploring memories while raising numerous questions and offering scarce answers. While attempting to delve into the intricacies of grief, fail to live up in its execution. The author's complex narrative style; whether a result of translation or intentional stylistic choices, creates unnecessary confusion.

The main plot is seemingly skipped, leaving me grappling with a sense of incompleteness and for once, firmly believe that while good novels can be intricate, they should still lead the reader toward a desired comprehension. The book lacks the necessary substance to anchor the reader throughout. The fleeting glimpses into characters' minds, coupled with minimal details, hinder a deeper connection with the narrative.

Nevertheless, I'm not entirely perplexed by how this unfolded, as I still derive satisfaction from it. This book stands out as it shifts the focus away from finding the culprit, highlighting Kwon's commendable portrayal of trauma's various forms. The use of multiple perspectives adds depth, revealing contrasting interpretations of seemingly simple actions. Somewhat equivocal, yet there's a certain charm to the prose that captivates me as I become immersed in the pages.

The novel also taps into society's fascination with unsolved crimes, akin to the popularity of true crime documentaries and podcasts. The unresolved nature of the book's conclusion mirrors this intrigue, leaving readers — like me, puzzled by the lingering mysteries. The adoption of an investigative crime fiction structure proves fitting, emphasizing that some mysteries defy easy resolution, ultimately relying on the significance we attribute to them.

Overall, Kwon offers a perceptive critique of a society that steadily undermines women's authority, deftly revealing the monetization and consumption of people till their attractiveness fades. But despite this sharp commentary, the book eventually does not measure up, creating a very apparent gap. I would have preferred a more flexible ending that may provide a more satisfying conclusion to the intricate subjects the author attempts to address, but the story lacks a vital component.]]> 3.24 2019 Lemon
author: Kwon Yeo-Sun
name: aly
average rating: 3.24
book published: 2019
rating: 3
read at: 2023/02/03
date added: 2025/06/02
shelves:
review:
I appreciate how this book, rather than being a typical mystery murder story, focuses more on the profound theme of grief and loss. This deviation from my initial expectations, as outlined in the blurb, adds a layer of coherence that enhances my overall reading experience.

"Back then, I'd thought that we'd finally escaped. Survived. But I was wrong. We hadn't returned at all"

The aftermath of the High School Beauty Murder — an unsolved crime that has plagued Korea for seventeen years, is vividly described by Kwon Yeo-sun in her compelling story. "Lemon" is a biting exploration of privilege, envy, trauma, and the lingering effects of the wrongs suffered and done, told from the viewpoints of Da-on and two of Hae-on's classmates.

While with the right expectations in, this book fell short for some reasons. Undeniably, the book engages in heartfelt self-reflection — meticulously exploring memories while raising numerous questions and offering scarce answers. While attempting to delve into the intricacies of grief, fail to live up in its execution. The author's complex narrative style; whether a result of translation or intentional stylistic choices, creates unnecessary confusion.

The main plot is seemingly skipped, leaving me grappling with a sense of incompleteness and for once, firmly believe that while good novels can be intricate, they should still lead the reader toward a desired comprehension. The book lacks the necessary substance to anchor the reader throughout. The fleeting glimpses into characters' minds, coupled with minimal details, hinder a deeper connection with the narrative.

Nevertheless, I'm not entirely perplexed by how this unfolded, as I still derive satisfaction from it. This book stands out as it shifts the focus away from finding the culprit, highlighting Kwon's commendable portrayal of trauma's various forms. The use of multiple perspectives adds depth, revealing contrasting interpretations of seemingly simple actions. Somewhat equivocal, yet there's a certain charm to the prose that captivates me as I become immersed in the pages.

The novel also taps into society's fascination with unsolved crimes, akin to the popularity of true crime documentaries and podcasts. The unresolved nature of the book's conclusion mirrors this intrigue, leaving readers — like me, puzzled by the lingering mysteries. The adoption of an investigative crime fiction structure proves fitting, emphasizing that some mysteries defy easy resolution, ultimately relying on the significance we attribute to them.

Overall, Kwon offers a perceptive critique of a society that steadily undermines women's authority, deftly revealing the monetization and consumption of people till their attractiveness fades. But despite this sharp commentary, the book eventually does not measure up, creating a very apparent gap. I would have preferred a more flexible ending that may provide a more satisfying conclusion to the intricate subjects the author attempts to address, but the story lacks a vital component.
]]> <![CDATA[Filthy Rich Vampire (Filthy Rich Vampires, #1)]]> 60710765
Julian Rousseaux has a problem. He’s single, and for the world’s wealthiest vampires, the social season is about to begin. Julian would rather stake himself than participate in the marriage market. But as the eldest eligible Rousseaux, he’s expected to find a wife before the season ends―whether he likes it or not.

When cellist Thea literally stumbles into his life at a gala, he knows she's the last person he could ever fall in love with. She's too innocent, too kind, and way too human. But now that she knows about his world, she's also a walking target. She needs protection. He needs a fake girlfriend to discourage overzealous vampire matchmaking.

So, Julian makes Thea an irresistible offer: pretend to be his lover and he’ll change her life. For one year, they’ll attend the season’s social events together in exchange for his protection and a way out of her mother’s crippling medical debt.

She can’t say no. But the vampire world is impossibly decadent and darker than Thea ever imagined, and Julian’s filthy rich vampire family wants her out of the way. But with each moment they share, new dangers emerge: a desire as forbidden as their stolen touches, an awakening of a long-dead heart, and secrets that could tear them both apart.

Sensual, dangerous, provocative ― step into a daring new world of dark magic, primal attraction, and breathtaking romance.]]> 429 Geneva Lee aly 3
The writing is a bit amateur-ish too so it's not really my fav thing. I still wanna continue the series (since it ends in cliffhanger) but it's also one that I'd easily dropped if it still doesn't make sense in the next book.

Update: The second book is absolutely trash, I almost questioned what I have read to enjoy when I pick this one up.]]> 3.80 2022 Filthy Rich Vampire (Filthy Rich Vampires, #1)
author: Geneva Lee
name: aly
average rating: 3.80
book published: 2022
rating: 3
read at: 2022/07/04
date added: 2025/06/02
shelves:
review:
I enjoy the book for its simplicity and that the romance is pretty cute to help quench my romance deprived self, but somewhere along the book, I find it tedious. The plot feels like it wasn't connected to one another and is everywhere.

The writing is a bit amateur-ish too so it's not really my fav thing. I still wanna continue the series (since it ends in cliffhanger) but it's also one that I'd easily dropped if it still doesn't make sense in the next book.

Update: The second book is absolutely trash, I almost questioned what I have read to enjoy when I pick this one up.
]]> The Wolf King 196920718
Princess Aurora longs to escape the castle and the marriage that has been arranged for her.

But on the night before her wedding, at a dog fight where captured werewolves are made to fight for sport, she spares the life of a young wolf. It puts her on the radar of the powerful alpha who was going to kill him. And it changes everything.

That night, when the alpha escapes, he kidnaps her and takes her to the rugged lands north of the border — where the once warring werewolf clans are beginning to unite. He thinks that she is the key to winning the war against the humans.

Only, as they spend time around one another, forbidden attraction starts to grow. And as Aurora learns that not all wolves are bad, the alpha discovers that she is in danger from both his enemies, and those he once considered friends.

With monsters on both sides, a bloodthirsty war between humans and wolves raging, and undeniable passion growing between them — will their story end in love? Or tragedy?

And will Aurora ever get home?

Does she even want to?]]> 475 Lauren Palphreyman aly 1 Cupid's Match, which ultimately is one of my favorites Wattpad story back then. Unfortunately, this one didn’t quite capture the same magic I was hoping for, and nostalgia just wasn’t enough to save it.

I definitely appreciate the short chapters from the book, which should make for a breezy read, but instead, they stretch the story thin, spinning in place without progression. Multiple chapters pass, yet the plot remains static, looping the same uneventful moment without momentum. The narration meanders and my interest waned with every digression.

Now that I am looking back, I’ve noticed Palphreyman has a habit of shoehorning love triangles into her work—a trope I have outgrown as maturity has shown me how rarely it’s done well. Most of the time, it’s just hollow drama for drama’s sake and sadly, this book is no exception. Neither of the love interest stands out to me: Callum is blandly chivalrous, while Blake’s constant smirking and faux mystery make him more grating than intriguing. Their dynamic isn’t a conflict—it’s filler, stretching a flimsy plot across future installments.

And so, it’s genuinely disappointing how this novel squander its promising beginning. The moment Aurora enters the wolf kingdom; the story loses all pace. We’re subjected to endless cycles of the same internal monologues, with key motivations rehashed in nearly identical wording chapter after chapter. The dialogue serves only as exposition, and the chapters lack satisfying arcs, often ending abruptly.

A teenage me, who once gobbled up anything on the orange app, might’ve devoured this. Now? The author's writing feels frozen in time—unchallenged, unrefined, and painfully surface-level. There’s no richness to the world, no complexity to the characters, just a void shell of a story that leaves me wondering why I bothered. A disappointing execution of what could have been a compelling premise.]]> 4.16 2023 The Wolf King
author: Lauren Palphreyman
name: aly
average rating: 4.16
book published: 2023
rating: 1
read at: 2025/04/27
date added: 2025/06/02
shelves:
review:
Maybe it’s the aftermath of my overdosing Wattpad werewolf teen phase (no regrets—those days were a blast!), but now, I'm yearning for something with a touch more elegance. To my surprise, this book was written by the same author of Cupid's Match, which ultimately is one of my favorites Wattpad story back then. Unfortunately, this one didn’t quite capture the same magic I was hoping for, and nostalgia just wasn’t enough to save it.

I definitely appreciate the short chapters from the book, which should make for a breezy read, but instead, they stretch the story thin, spinning in place without progression. Multiple chapters pass, yet the plot remains static, looping the same uneventful moment without momentum. The narration meanders and my interest waned with every digression.

Now that I am looking back, I’ve noticed Palphreyman has a habit of shoehorning love triangles into her work—a trope I have outgrown as maturity has shown me how rarely it’s done well. Most of the time, it’s just hollow drama for drama’s sake and sadly, this book is no exception. Neither of the love interest stands out to me: Callum is blandly chivalrous, while Blake’s constant smirking and faux mystery make him more grating than intriguing. Their dynamic isn’t a conflict—it’s filler, stretching a flimsy plot across future installments.

And so, it’s genuinely disappointing how this novel squander its promising beginning. The moment Aurora enters the wolf kingdom; the story loses all pace. We’re subjected to endless cycles of the same internal monologues, with key motivations rehashed in nearly identical wording chapter after chapter. The dialogue serves only as exposition, and the chapters lack satisfying arcs, often ending abruptly.

A teenage me, who once gobbled up anything on the orange app, might’ve devoured this. Now? The author's writing feels frozen in time—unchallenged, unrefined, and painfully surface-level. There’s no richness to the world, no complexity to the characters, just a void shell of a story that leaves me wondering why I bothered. A disappointing execution of what could have been a compelling premise.
]]> <![CDATA[The Girl Who Fell Beneath the Sea]]> 60691190 An ancient curse.
Will her sacrifice save them all?

For generations, deadly storms have ravaged Mina’s homeland. Her people believe the Sea God, once their protector, now curses them with death and despair. To appease him, each year a maiden is thrown into the sea, in the hopes that one day the ‘true bride’ will be chosen and end the suffering.

Many believe Shim Cheong - Mina’s brother’s beloved - to be the legendary true bride. But on the night Cheong is to be sacrificed, Mina’s brother follows her, knowing that to interfere is a death sentence. To save her brother, Mina throws herself into the water in Cheong’s stead.

Swept away to the Spirit Realm, a magical city of lesser gods and mythical beasts, Mina finds the Sea God, trapped in an enchanted sleep. With the help of a mysterious young man and a motley crew of demons, gods and spirits, Mina sets out to wake him and bring and end to the storms once and for all.

But she doesn’t have much time: a human cannot live long in the land of the spirits. And there are those who would do anything to keep the Sea God from waking…

The Girl Who Fell Beneath the Sea is a magical feminist retelling of a classic Korean legend, perfect for fans of Uprooted and Miyazaki’s Spirited Away.]]> 321 Axie Oh 1529391997 aly 3 "I was angry, but not at you. I was angry at the fate I'd been given. Because I realized that for you to have what you want, I'd have to lose the only thing I'd ever wanted"

I dare to bet that by the end of the story, Shin will have massive back pain for how much he carried this whole book! I need the police to launch a full federal investigation into the grip Axie Oh has on me by introducing Shin, considering how he wasn't given much limelight. Added that this is also a single POV — but Shin surely had me on a clutch. All the only reasons why I rated higher than it should be.

The Girl Who Fell Beneath the Sea was told to be inspired by a Korean myth and Ghibli's Spirited Away. And being the big fan that I am of Ghibli, of course I wouldn't want to miss this. Undeniably, this book did offer us a very interesting premise. The concept is fluid where the characters are pushed out of comfortable homes to go make new lives elsewhere in the world. I love the settings and vibe as it is often whimsical, nostalgic, and full of wonder about the world. It fits my preferences.

Alas, I do feel like Axie Oh too had a lot in mind on what or how this should be but does not know when to execute them. I have a lot of questions throughout the book but the part when it was revealed does not help me a bit in getting them answered. The writing was confusing and very layman, to a point, it does feel like reading a MG book. It was very amateur at most — from the heroine, the villain, the romance to the worldbuilding. Though, it's a great place to start an outlet for creativity and a decent crucible to craft better stories; given this is only one of the two works of her so far.

Nevertheless, I still have to list what of this book that does not seem to work out.

1) Our protagonist, Mina.
We’ve all read a novel where the protagonist starts seemingly completely normal until they’re suddenly thrust into a new world and discover that only they have the power to fix the universe. Mina is no less the same, the ever so virtuous girl who doesn't feel pretty and to an extent, can be overbearing.

There are a plethora of other tropes in YA fiction and just because it was overdone, does not mean authors should steer clear of it because when it was done well — it can be good. Just... not Mina. Sometimes I wonder why Axie Oh didn't just stick with Sim Cheong as the Sea Bride just like the myth since the story seems to revolve quite a lot around Sim Cheong. Taking into consideration that she's a supporting character that is barely significant. It just doesn't add up. Though, I understand if she's trying to remodel and offer a different alternative from the original piece. Axie Oh just had a poor way to portray it.


2) The world-building .
This book has the potential to be amazing but there were too many details that were left out. Worlds are systems but most of the time, I had no idea what the Lords and Goddesses were supposed to serve nor were they given a delineation to their existence. What's the Spirit Realm in profundity or the motives of the villains? Like, why does the House of Crane and Tiger wants to kill Shin and had the Imugi do that? Why do they even have ill intentions towards Sea God? You can’t just pigeonhole people into being evil. Heritage or class isn’t what makes someone “bad” or the “villain” — it’s their motives and thoughts that do. So when Axie just writes them as evil because they’re associated with someone that is, I feel like she's not giving justice to her characters.

I also don't truly understand why Shin and Mina were bounded in the first place despite the revelation in the end. Everything is tied but at the same time, they are not. How can the Goddess of Moon and Memory takes place of the Goddess of Motherhood and Children just because Mina said she had it in her to be kind? What happened to the real Goddess of Motherhood and Children? No longer a goddess? Or mayhaps Axie Oh just forgot of her total existence, I bet.

Why does Shin suddenly forget Mina when spirits don't forget when they turned one? Why did the Sea God lose his memories when he offered his soul to the Emperor? Who made them forget? No, listen, the list is just neverending which only concludes that this book has such poor worldbuilding. The short pages probably didn't help too, because it does feel rushed.


3) The writing style
Not gonna lie. This book pretty much checks all the boxes of what sticks as an amateur. The conversation was so calculated and unnatural. I bet if it's a real-life conversation, it's just gonna be crickets because it was so awkward
]]> 4.04 2022 The Girl Who Fell Beneath the Sea
author: Axie Oh
name: aly
average rating: 4.04
book published: 2022
rating: 3
read at: 2022/03/01
date added: 2025/06/02
shelves:
review:
"I was angry, but not at you. I was angry at the fate I'd been given. Because I realized that for you to have what you want, I'd have to lose the only thing I'd ever wanted"


I dare to bet that by the end of the story, Shin will have massive back pain for how much he carried this whole book! I need the police to launch a full federal investigation into the grip Axie Oh has on me by introducing Shin, considering how he wasn't given much limelight. Added that this is also a single POV — but Shin surely had me on a clutch. All the only reasons why I rated higher than it should be.

The Girl Who Fell Beneath the Sea was told to be inspired by a Korean myth and Ghibli's Spirited Away. And being the big fan that I am of Ghibli, of course I wouldn't want to miss this. Undeniably, this book did offer us a very interesting premise. The concept is fluid where the characters are pushed out of comfortable homes to go make new lives elsewhere in the world. I love the settings and vibe as it is often whimsical, nostalgic, and full of wonder about the world. It fits my preferences.

Alas, I do feel like Axie Oh too had a lot in mind on what or how this should be but does not know when to execute them. I have a lot of questions throughout the book but the part when it was revealed does not help me a bit in getting them answered. The writing was confusing and very layman, to a point, it does feel like reading a MG book. It was very amateur at most — from the heroine, the villain, the romance to the worldbuilding. Though, it's a great place to start an outlet for creativity and a decent crucible to craft better stories; given this is only one of the two works of her so far.

Nevertheless, I still have to list what of this book that does not seem to work out.

1) Our protagonist, Mina.
We’ve all read a novel where the protagonist starts seemingly completely normal until they’re suddenly thrust into a new world and discover that only they have the power to fix the universe. Mina is no less the same, the ever so virtuous girl who doesn't feel pretty and to an extent, can be overbearing.

There are a plethora of other tropes in YA fiction and just because it was overdone, does not mean authors should steer clear of it because when it was done well — it can be good. Just... not Mina. Sometimes I wonder why Axie Oh didn't just stick with Sim Cheong as the Sea Bride just like the myth since the story seems to revolve quite a lot around Sim Cheong. Taking into consideration that she's a supporting character that is barely significant. It just doesn't add up. Though, I understand if she's trying to remodel and offer a different alternative from the original piece. Axie Oh just had a poor way to portray it.


2) The world-building .
This book has the potential to be amazing but there were too many details that were left out. Worlds are systems but most of the time, I had no idea what the Lords and Goddesses were supposed to serve nor were they given a delineation to their existence. What's the Spirit Realm in profundity or the motives of the villains? Like, why does the House of Crane and Tiger wants to kill Shin and had the Imugi do that? Why do they even have ill intentions towards Sea God? You can’t just pigeonhole people into being evil. Heritage or class isn’t what makes someone “bad” or the “villain” — it’s their motives and thoughts that do. So when Axie just writes them as evil because they’re associated with someone that is, I feel like she's not giving justice to her characters.

I also don't truly understand why Shin and Mina were bounded in the first place despite the revelation in the end. Everything is tied but at the same time, they are not. How can the Goddess of Moon and Memory takes place of the Goddess of Motherhood and Children just because Mina said she had it in her to be kind? What happened to the real Goddess of Motherhood and Children? No longer a goddess? Or mayhaps Axie Oh just forgot of her total existence, I bet.

Why does Shin suddenly forget Mina when spirits don't forget when they turned one? Why did the Sea God lose his memories when he offered his soul to the Emperor? Who made them forget? No, listen, the list is just neverending which only concludes that this book has such poor worldbuilding. The short pages probably didn't help too, because it does feel rushed.


3) The writing style
Not gonna lie. This book pretty much checks all the boxes of what sticks as an amateur. The conversation was so calculated and unnatural. I bet if it's a real-life conversation, it's just gonna be crickets because it was so awkward

]]> Twisted Games (Twisted, #2) 60799683
He has never once been tempted to break those rules… until her.

Bridget von Ascheberg. A princess with a stubborn streak that matches his own and a hidden fire that reduces his rules to ash. She’s nothing he expected and everything he never knew he needed.

Day by day, inch by inch, she breaks down his defenses until he’s faced with a truth he can no longer deny: he swore an oath to protect her, but all he wants is to ruin her. Take her.

Because she’s his.

His princess.
His forbidden fruit.
His every depraved fantasy.

***

Regal, strong-willed, and bound by the chains of duty, Princess Bridget dreams of the freedom to live and love as she chooses.

But when her brother abdicates, she’s suddenly faced with the prospect of a loveless, politically expedient marriage and a throne she never wanted.

And as she navigates the intricacies—and treacheries—of her new role, she must also hide her desire for a man she can’t have.

Her bodyguard.
Her protector.
Her ultimate ruin.

Unexpected and forbidden, theirs is a love that could destroy a kingdom… and doom them both.

Twisted Games is a contemporary royal bodyguard romance. It’s book two of the Twisted series but can be read as a standalone.

Warning: This book contains a possessive alpha hero, explicit sexual content, and profanity.]]> 438 Ana Huang 034943431X aly 2
To a point, I just wanna get this over with.

Further RTC.]]> 4.05 2021 Twisted Games (Twisted, #2)
author: Ana Huang
name: aly
average rating: 4.05
book published: 2021
rating: 2
read at: 2022/11/24
date added: 2025/06/02
shelves:
review:
AAA I actually like Rhys and Bridget more than Alex and Ava? But at the same time I feel like I am forcing myself to read this? It's just not as enjoyable or intense as I hope it would be. It's just all lust and roll with it.

To a point, I just wanna get this over with.

Further RTC.
]]> Blue Light Hours 208580636 One of Electric Literature’s “75 Books by Women of Color to Read in 2024”

From the National Book Award-winning translator, an atmospheric and wise debut novel of a young Brazilian woman’s first year in America, a continent away from her lonely mother, and the relationship they build over Skype calls across borders

“Utterly beautiful . . . The yearning in these pages will haunt me.”—Ayşegül Savaş, author of White on White

In a small dorm room at a liberal arts college in Vermont, a young woman settles into the warm blue light of her desk lamp before calling the mother she left behind in northeastern Brazil. Four thousand miles apart and bound by the angular confines of a Skype window, they ask each other a simple question: what’s the news?

Offscreen, little about their lives seems newsworthy. The daughter writes her papers in the library at midnight, eats in the dining hall with the other international students, and raises her hand in class to speak in a language the mother cannot understand. The mother meanwhile preoccupies herself with natural disasters, her increasingly poor health, and the heartbreaking possibility that her daughter might not return to the apartment where they have always lived together. Yet in the blue glow of their computers, the two women develop new rituals of intimacy and caretaking, from drinking whiskey together in the middle of the night to keeping watch as one slides into sleep. As the warm colors of New England autumn fade into an endless winter snow, each realizes that the promise of spring might mean difficult endings rather than hopeful beginnings.

Expanded from a story originally published in The New Yorker, and in elegant prose that recalls the work of Sigrid Nunez, Katie Kitamura, and Rachel Khong, Bruna Dantas Lobato paints a powerful portrait of a mother and a daughter coming of age together and apart and explores the profound sacrifices and freedoms that come with leaving a home to make a new one somewhere else.]]> 192 Bruna Dantas Lobato 0802163777 aly 3 Blue Light Hours is a quiet, introspective novel that explores the bittersweet distance between a Brazilian college student in Vermont and her mother back home. Told in three sections—shifting between the daughter’s first-person perspective and the mother’s third—the book captures the ache of separation and the fragile intimacy of their Skype calls.

I picked up this book at a time when I was feeling the familiar pang of separation—my mother was leaving on a road trip with her sisters (it was her second trip just this year alone (╥﹏╥)) (yes, I am that velcro child) and even though I’m no longer a student living far from home, that old homesickness crept back in.

Lobato’s prose is restrained yet poetic, evoking the daughter’s dual longing for her new life and her old home, as well as the mother’s quiet adjustment to an emptier house. The emotional core lies in their tender, sometimes strained attempts to bridge the gap, making it a relatable meditation on family, belonging, and the cost of growth.

While the novel excels in mood and atmosphere, its minimalism occasionally works against it. The narrative’s unhurried pace mirrors the daughter’s winter walks, but some scenes feel sparse to the point of detachment. The dialogue meant to feel natural, sometimes comes across as stilted, lacking the lived-in warmth of a real mother-daughter dynamic.

Though the book avoids melodrama—a strength—its restraint can also make the characters feel rudimentary. The daughter’s reluctance to return to Brazil, for instance, is underexplored, leaving her motivations to be vagued. Similarly, the mother’s perspective; while poignant, doesn’t delve deeply enough into her identity beyond motherhood.

That said, this book succeeds in its quieter moments. Lobato’s observations about displacement and the paradox of wanting both independence and connection are sharp and moving. The final section of the novel subtly captures how time apart reshapes relationships, blending hope and melancholy. Readers who appreciate reflective, character-driven stories may find beauty in its simplicity, even if it lacks narrative momentum.

Collectively, this is a novel that prioritizes mood over plot, and while its emotional resonance may vary depending on the reader’s own experiences, it offers a delicate portrayal of love and distance. It doesn’t break new ground, but for those attuned to its wavelength, Blue Light Hours lingers—like the glow of a screen after a late-night call home.]]> 3.94 2024 Blue Light Hours
author: Bruna Dantas Lobato
name: aly
average rating: 3.94
book published: 2024
rating: 3
read at: 2025/01/31
date added: 2025/06/01
shelves:
review:
Bruna Dantas Lobato’s Blue Light Hours is a quiet, introspective novel that explores the bittersweet distance between a Brazilian college student in Vermont and her mother back home. Told in three sections—shifting between the daughter’s first-person perspective and the mother’s third—the book captures the ache of separation and the fragile intimacy of their Skype calls.

I picked up this book at a time when I was feeling the familiar pang of separation—my mother was leaving on a road trip with her sisters (it was her second trip just this year alone (╥﹏╥)) (yes, I am that velcro child) and even though I’m no longer a student living far from home, that old homesickness crept back in.

Lobato’s prose is restrained yet poetic, evoking the daughter’s dual longing for her new life and her old home, as well as the mother’s quiet adjustment to an emptier house. The emotional core lies in their tender, sometimes strained attempts to bridge the gap, making it a relatable meditation on family, belonging, and the cost of growth.

While the novel excels in mood and atmosphere, its minimalism occasionally works against it. The narrative’s unhurried pace mirrors the daughter’s winter walks, but some scenes feel sparse to the point of detachment. The dialogue meant to feel natural, sometimes comes across as stilted, lacking the lived-in warmth of a real mother-daughter dynamic.

Though the book avoids melodrama—a strength—its restraint can also make the characters feel rudimentary. The daughter’s reluctance to return to Brazil, for instance, is underexplored, leaving her motivations to be vagued. Similarly, the mother’s perspective; while poignant, doesn’t delve deeply enough into her identity beyond motherhood.

That said, this book succeeds in its quieter moments. Lobato’s observations about displacement and the paradox of wanting both independence and connection are sharp and moving. The final section of the novel subtly captures how time apart reshapes relationships, blending hope and melancholy. Readers who appreciate reflective, character-driven stories may find beauty in its simplicity, even if it lacks narrative momentum.

Collectively, this is a novel that prioritizes mood over plot, and while its emotional resonance may vary depending on the reader’s own experiences, it offers a delicate portrayal of love and distance. It doesn’t break new ground, but for those attuned to its wavelength, Blue Light Hours lingers—like the glow of a screen after a late-night call home.
]]> Ne'er Duke Well 195790787 In this steamy Regency romp, Lady Selina is determined to find the Duke of Stanhope the perfect wife―the only problem is she's starting to think that might be her.

Peter Kent―newly inherited Duke of Stanhope and recently of New Orleans, Louisiana―must become respectable. Between his radical politics and the time he interrupted a minor royal wedding with a flock of sheep―not his fault!―he’s developed a scandalous reputation at odds with his goal of becoming guardian to his half siblings. For help, he turns to the cleverest and most managing woman of his acquaintance, Lady Selina Ravenscroft.

Selina is society’s most proper debutante, save one tiny secret: she runs an erotic circulating library for women. When Peter asks for her help, she suggests courtship and marriage to a lady of unimpeachable reputation. (Which is to say, definitely not herself.)

But matchmaking doesn’t go according to plan. Peter’s siblings run rampant on Bond Street. Selina ends up in the Serpentine. And worst of all, the scorching chemistry between Peter and Selina proves impossible to resist. For the disreputable duke and his unpredictable matchmaker, falling in love just might be the ultimate scandal.]]> 352 Alexandra Vasti 1250910943 aly 4 Ne’er Duke Well — Alexandra Vasti’s first traditionally published novel—immediately captivated me, not just with its gorgeous cover that was initially drawn me to read it, but along with its equally enchanting story.

The book follows Peter Kent, the newly minted Duke of Stanhope, whose scandalous reputation threatens his bid for guardianship of his half-siblings. Then, enter Lady Selina Ravenscroft, society’s most proper debutante… or so it seems. Beneath her pristine image lies a delicious secret: she runs a clandestine library of erotic literature. When Selina proposes a strategic courtship to salvage Peter’s standing, neither expects their simmering chemistry to erupt into something irresistible.

I found this book to be such a delightful blend of humor, passion, and tender. Selina is a standout heroine who is witty, bold, and fiercely loyal, reminiscent of Elizabeth Bennet but with a scandalous edge. Peter, an American-raised duke with progressive ideals, is equally endearing, especially in his devotion to his siblings. Their romance is a masterclass in pining and partnership, with banter that crackles and love scenes that sizzle. Together, they challenge conventions; Selina with her secret defiance of society’s rules, and Peter with his unorthodox views, proving that love thrives when boundaries are pushed.

What truly lifts this book is also its emotional depth. The found-family dynamic between Peter, Selina, and his half-siblings is heartwarming, and the children’s chaotic charm (including a saber-wielding sister) adds levity. Selina’s internal conflict—her fear that her secret could ruin Peter’s chances—feels genuine, and their mutual selflessness makes their HEA all the more satisfying. While some may wish for more one-on-one moments between the leads, the strength of their bonds with the supporting cast more than compensates. At least, I do enjoy the all-embracing storyline to which the pacing balances romance and plot seamlessly, and the stakes never feel contrived.

I am not easily charmed when it comes to loving a regency romance book, but this one does the trick. Lively, well-researched, and brimming with charm; it is one remarkable story. Vasti’s writing is sharp, sensual, and full of heart which cements her as an author to be on the lookout. If you love headstrong heroines, tender heroes, and stories that blend laughter with longing, this book is an absolute must-read.]]> 3.80 2024 Ne'er Duke Well
author: Alexandra Vasti
name: aly
average rating: 3.80
book published: 2024
rating: 4
read at: 2024/08/11
date added: 2025/06/01
shelves:
review:
Did I just discover a new favorite regency romance author? Unbelievably so! Ne’er Duke Well — Alexandra Vasti’s first traditionally published novel—immediately captivated me, not just with its gorgeous cover that was initially drawn me to read it, but along with its equally enchanting story.

The book follows Peter Kent, the newly minted Duke of Stanhope, whose scandalous reputation threatens his bid for guardianship of his half-siblings. Then, enter Lady Selina Ravenscroft, society’s most proper debutante… or so it seems. Beneath her pristine image lies a delicious secret: she runs a clandestine library of erotic literature. When Selina proposes a strategic courtship to salvage Peter’s standing, neither expects their simmering chemistry to erupt into something irresistible.

I found this book to be such a delightful blend of humor, passion, and tender. Selina is a standout heroine who is witty, bold, and fiercely loyal, reminiscent of Elizabeth Bennet but with a scandalous edge. Peter, an American-raised duke with progressive ideals, is equally endearing, especially in his devotion to his siblings. Their romance is a masterclass in pining and partnership, with banter that crackles and love scenes that sizzle. Together, they challenge conventions; Selina with her secret defiance of society’s rules, and Peter with his unorthodox views, proving that love thrives when boundaries are pushed.

What truly lifts this book is also its emotional depth. The found-family dynamic between Peter, Selina, and his half-siblings is heartwarming, and the children’s chaotic charm (including a saber-wielding sister) adds levity. Selina’s internal conflict—her fear that her secret could ruin Peter’s chances—feels genuine, and their mutual selflessness makes their HEA all the more satisfying. While some may wish for more one-on-one moments between the leads, the strength of their bonds with the supporting cast more than compensates. At least, I do enjoy the all-embracing storyline to which the pacing balances romance and plot seamlessly, and the stakes never feel contrived.

I am not easily charmed when it comes to loving a regency romance book, but this one does the trick. Lively, well-researched, and brimming with charm; it is one remarkable story. Vasti’s writing is sharp, sensual, and full of heart which cements her as an author to be on the lookout. If you love headstrong heroines, tender heroes, and stories that blend laughter with longing, this book is an absolute must-read.
]]> She and Her Cat: Stories 60321429 For fans of Mieko Kawakami’s Breasts and Eggs and Murata Sayaka’s Earthlings, this Japanese bestseller from renowned anime director Makoto Shinkai features four inspirational and heartwarming vignettes following women and their cats in their quests for love and connection.

Lying alone on the edge of the sidewalk in an abandoned cardboard box, a nameless narrator contemplates the indifferent world around him. With his mother long gone, his only company is the sound of the nearby train. Just as he fears that the end is near, a young woman peers down at him, this fateful encounter changing their lives forever

So begins the first story in She and Her Cat, a collection of four interrelated, stream-of-conscious short stories in which four women and their feline companions explore the frailty of life, the pain of isolation, and the limits of communication.

With clever narration alternating between the cats and their owners, She and Her Cat offers a unique and sly commentary on human foibles and our desire for connection. A whimsical short story anthology unlike any other, it effortlessly demonstrates that even in our darkest, most lonesome moments, we are still united to this wonderous world—often in ways we could never have expected.]]> 135 Makoto Shinkai 198216574X aly 5
You know the saying: if there are a million number of cat persons, I am one of them. If there are only ten cat persons, I am one of them. If there is only one cat person, that is ME, and if there is no longer a cat person on earth, that is because I am dead.

"I remember the happy time when there was no loneliness"

These four interconnected stories from Makarto Shinkai are brazenly whimsical and took place in a Tokyo suburb with office buildings, railroad tracks, and talking cats. These stories depict the kinship and relationships with animals with a beguiling lightness as they were recounted from the perspective of the owner and the pet. While the cats navigate their suburban neighborhood, dealing with the challenges of territory, friendship, and mortality — their owners deal with the challenges of daily life, seeing similarities and distinctions among them all.

The first story with Chobi is just my absolute favorite; where he was rescued by Miyu on a cold and rainy day. In all honesty, it somewhat makes me think of my cat. Chobi cares for his owner more than anything (he thinks she is his girlfriend ]]> 3.87 2013 She and Her Cat: Stories
author: Makoto Shinkai
name: aly
average rating: 3.87
book published: 2013
rating: 5
read at: 2023/01/13
date added: 2025/06/01
shelves:
review:
I think it only makes the most sense for my first five stars read of the year to go for a book on CATS.

You know the saying: if there are a million number of cat persons, I am one of them. If there are only ten cat persons, I am one of them. If there is only one cat person, that is ME, and if there is no longer a cat person on earth, that is because I am dead.

"I remember the happy time when there was no loneliness"

These four interconnected stories from Makarto Shinkai are brazenly whimsical and took place in a Tokyo suburb with office buildings, railroad tracks, and talking cats. These stories depict the kinship and relationships with animals with a beguiling lightness as they were recounted from the perspective of the owner and the pet. While the cats navigate their suburban neighborhood, dealing with the challenges of territory, friendship, and mortality — their owners deal with the challenges of daily life, seeing similarities and distinctions among them all.

The first story with Chobi is just my absolute favorite; where he was rescued by Miyu on a cold and rainy day. In all honesty, it somewhat makes me think of my cat. Chobi cares for his owner more than anything (he thinks she is his girlfriend
]]> Ain't Burned All the Bright 58437699 Prepare yourself for something unlike anything: A smash-up of art and text for teens that viscerally captures what it is to be Black. In America. Right Now. Written by #1 New York Times bestselling and award-winning author Jason Reynolds.

Jason Reynolds and his best bud, Jason Griffin had a mind-meld. And they decided to tackle it, in one fell swoop, in about ten sentences, and 300 pages of art, this piece, this contemplation-manifesto-fierce-vulnerable-gorgeous-terrifying-WhatIsWrongWithHumans-hope-filled-hopeful-searing-Eye-Poppingly-Illustrated-tender-heartbreaking-how-The-HECK-did-They-Come-UP-with-This project about oxygen. And all of the symbolism attached to that word, especially NOW.

And so for anyone who didn’t really know what it means to not be able to breathe, REALLY breathe, for generations, now you know. And those who already do, you’ll be nodding yep yep, that is exactly how it is.]]> 384 Jason Reynolds 1534439463 aly 4
"My name is Jason"
"Mine too"

Ain't Burned All The Bright depicts the sentiments of a young boy's family during racial upheavals and the Covid-19 pandemic conveyed in the style of a notebook written by the young boy himself.

I have to say, I was expecting a strong writing but this book imbued more of canvas arts; which is equally stunning. Regardless of the expectation, the storyline was built on poetic lines, along with the thread revolving the murders of George Floyd and Eric Garner. The author and illustrator connect the horror of those deaths, the violence implied in the way the pandemic unfolded, and a metaphorical sense of individuals unable to breathe freely in our society through the concept of breathing.

Despite its simplicity, the depth and intricacy of the notions will prevail most readers. On the whole, this is one beautiful and compelling read.]]> 4.41 2022 Ain't Burned All the Bright
author: Jason Reynolds
name: aly
average rating: 4.41
book published: 2022
rating: 4
read at: 2022/01/11
date added: 2025/06/01
shelves:
review:
"My name is Jason"
"Mine too"

Ain't Burned All The Bright depicts the sentiments of a young boy's family during racial upheavals and the Covid-19 pandemic conveyed in the style of a notebook written by the young boy himself.

I have to say, I was expecting a strong writing but this book imbued more of canvas arts; which is equally stunning. Regardless of the expectation, the storyline was built on poetic lines, along with the thread revolving the murders of George Floyd and Eric Garner. The author and illustrator connect the horror of those deaths, the violence implied in the way the pandemic unfolded, and a metaphorical sense of individuals unable to breathe freely in our society through the concept of breathing.

Despite its simplicity, the depth and intricacy of the notions will prevail most readers. On the whole, this is one beautiful and compelling read.
]]> <![CDATA[The Quantum Weirdness of the Almost-Kiss]]> 51075452 Caleb has always assumed that when she was ready for romance, Evie would choose him. Because he is her best friend, and he loves her, and he has almost kissed her 17 times...

Seventeen-year-old Evie Beckham has never been interested in dating. She's been fully occupied by her love of mathematics and her frequent battles with anxiety (and besides, she's always found the idea of kissing to be a little bit icky). But with the help of her best friend and her therapist, Evie's feeling braver. Maybe even brave enough to enter a prestigious physics competition and to say yes to the new boy who's been flirting with her.

Caleb Covic knows Evie isn't ready for romance but assumes that when she is, she will choose him. So Caleb is horrified when he is forced to witness Evie's meet cute with a floppy-haired, mathematically gifted transfer student. Because Caleb knows the girl never falls for the funny best friend when there's a mysterious stranger around, he decides to use an online forum to capture Evie's interest. Now, he's got Evie wondering if it's possible to fall in love with a boy she's never met.

Told in the alternating voices of Evie and Caleb, THE QUANTUM WEIRDNESS OF THE ALMOST KISS is a YA romantic comedy, sure to satisfy fans of Jenny Han, Rainbow Rowell and Stephanie Perkins.]]> 368 Amy Noelle Parks 1419739727 aly 2 "Evie's interest in Leo is messing with my head. Because in what universe does it make sense she would choose someone else?

I am her best friend. And I love her. And I almost kissed her fourteen times."

Conceivably, I was hoping this book would change my take on a best friend to lovers but it still kind of reminds me why it was not in my best interest. But is this adorable though? Definitely.

Growing up together, Caleb has been in love with Evie for as long as he can remember. No one can connect with Evie the way Caleb does, from providing solace during her panic attacks to understanding her trouble with expressing emotions. Caleb is sure Evie will choose him. However, the same could not be said for Evie. She was never interested in romance — well, not until Leo came into the picture and impressed her with his physics solution and got Caleb doubting himself again.

This book sure comes with flaws but my favorite part of it (aside from the gorgeous pink cover) would be Caleb's antics which I find rather amusing though cheesy. Especially when he has a list of the almost-kisses moments with Evie that he kept track of, or when he was thinking about how Evie had her first kiss and it's not with him. Trope in which the guy falls first really stands on its own because Caleb is helplessly smitten and we just love to see it.

Meanwhile, Evie, who is a prodigy in math, suffered from anxiety and panic attacks which caused her to miss the Frontier. Equitably, Amy Parks did a commendable job in presenting a heavy topic like anxiety but also manages to write them in a light atmosphere, making this book such a fluff read yet preceptive.

It was also told in dual POVs, which allows readers to venture into both Evie and Caleb's minds and opens up all sorts of new options in what can happen in their story. Regrettably, I often find Caleb's part frustrating. I like the idea of him falling in love with his best friend, I just don't like how he was handling it due to his player tendency, though he did get likable throughout. While Evie's part can be a bit dull for all her awkwardness and dry humor, I enjoyed reading about her overcoming her struggles while also nailing being a STEM girl. But for all that, their narratives started to sound the same after a time which made the book as a whole less exciting than anticipated.

Not to mention, the story moves through the many circumstances in each chapter relatively quickly. The scene would shift just as I was beginning to understand the settings and other details which sort of ties in with the fact that I didn't see the significance of many of these passages. Foremost, I hate it when a book ends after the couple gets together with little anything transpired in between. Like yay, go give us nothing!

The love triangle was also not stellar as anyone would have expected from this trope. It's hard to like a character who will string along two different people and put them both through hell just because they can't make up their mind who they want to be with and this goes out for both Evie and especially Caleb (surprisingly). If you are harboring feelings for someone else and you can't completely invest yourself in the relationship you are in, then what are you doing, Caleb? Again, not a fan of his player tendency. I like the realization of the "obvious" choice for Evie though I would have rooted for Leo beyond any doubt. Leo deserved better but sadly, we already pushed to expect the endgame, so not much could have been done.

All things considered, The Quantum Weirdness of the Almost-Kiss was an okay read, though it got me iffy over time. I felt appeased to witness each character's growth into better persons and more conscientious individuals. The STEM women representative was unequivocal as well and I love all the maths and physics talks. For all that could have been better, it was a lekker piece of a debut book.

[2.5/5 ☆]]]> 3.84 2020 The Quantum Weirdness of the Almost-Kiss
author: Amy Noelle Parks
name: aly
average rating: 3.84
book published: 2020
rating: 2
read at: 2021/01/06
date added: 2025/05/30
shelves:
review:
"Evie's interest in Leo is messing with my head. Because in what universe does it make sense she would choose someone else?

I am her best friend. And I love her. And I almost kissed her fourteen times."


Conceivably, I was hoping this book would change my take on a best friend to lovers but it still kind of reminds me why it was not in my best interest. But is this adorable though? Definitely.

Growing up together, Caleb has been in love with Evie for as long as he can remember. No one can connect with Evie the way Caleb does, from providing solace during her panic attacks to understanding her trouble with expressing emotions. Caleb is sure Evie will choose him. However, the same could not be said for Evie. She was never interested in romance — well, not until Leo came into the picture and impressed her with his physics solution and got Caleb doubting himself again.

This book sure comes with flaws but my favorite part of it (aside from the gorgeous pink cover) would be Caleb's antics which I find rather amusing though cheesy. Especially when he has a list of the almost-kisses moments with Evie that he kept track of, or when he was thinking about how Evie had her first kiss and it's not with him. Trope in which the guy falls first really stands on its own because Caleb is helplessly smitten and we just love to see it.

Meanwhile, Evie, who is a prodigy in math, suffered from anxiety and panic attacks which caused her to miss the Frontier. Equitably, Amy Parks did a commendable job in presenting a heavy topic like anxiety but also manages to write them in a light atmosphere, making this book such a fluff read yet preceptive.

It was also told in dual POVs, which allows readers to venture into both Evie and Caleb's minds and opens up all sorts of new options in what can happen in their story. Regrettably, I often find Caleb's part frustrating. I like the idea of him falling in love with his best friend, I just don't like how he was handling it due to his player tendency, though he did get likable throughout. While Evie's part can be a bit dull for all her awkwardness and dry humor, I enjoyed reading about her overcoming her struggles while also nailing being a STEM girl. But for all that, their narratives started to sound the same after a time which made the book as a whole less exciting than anticipated.

Not to mention, the story moves through the many circumstances in each chapter relatively quickly. The scene would shift just as I was beginning to understand the settings and other details which sort of ties in with the fact that I didn't see the significance of many of these passages. Foremost, I hate it when a book ends after the couple gets together with little anything transpired in between. Like yay, go give us nothing!

The love triangle was also not stellar as anyone would have expected from this trope. It's hard to like a character who will string along two different people and put them both through hell just because they can't make up their mind who they want to be with and this goes out for both Evie and especially Caleb (surprisingly). If you are harboring feelings for someone else and you can't completely invest yourself in the relationship you are in, then what are you doing, Caleb? Again, not a fan of his player tendency. I like the realization of the "obvious" choice for Evie though I would have rooted for Leo beyond any doubt. Leo deserved better but sadly, we already pushed to expect the endgame, so not much could have been done.

All things considered, The Quantum Weirdness of the Almost-Kiss was an okay read, though it got me iffy over time. I felt appeased to witness each character's growth into better persons and more conscientious individuals. The STEM women representative was unequivocal as well and I love all the maths and physics talks. For all that could have been better, it was a lekker piece of a debut book.

[2.5/5 ☆]
]]> How Not to Fall in Love 53346773 A hardened cynic and a hopeless romantic teach each other about love in this swoony and heartfelt contemporary romance that's perfect for fans of Tweet Cute and The Upside of Falling.

Harper works in her mom’s wedding shop, altering dresses for petulant and picky brides who are more focused on hemlines than love. After years of watching squabbles break out over wedding plans, Harper thinks romance is a marketing tool. Nothing more. Her best friend Theo is her opposite. One date and he’s already dreaming of happily ever afters. He also plays the accordion, makes chain mail for Ren Festers, hangs out in a windmill-shaped tree house, cries over rom-coms, and takes his word-of-the-day calendar very seriously.
 
When Theo’s shocked to find himself nursing his umpteenth heartbreak, Harper offers to teach him how not to fall in love. Theo agrees to the lessons, as long as Harper proves she can date without falling in love. As the lessons progress and Theo takes them to heart, Harper has a harder time upholding her end of the bargain. She’s also checking out her window to see if Theo’s home from his latest date yet. She's even watching rom-coms. If she confesses her feelings, she’ll undermine everything she’s taught him. Or was he the one teaching her?]]> 239 Jacqueline Firkins aly 3
It was sweet, painful and frenzied all the same. Not bad for my most unfavourable trope.

RTC]]> 3.62 2021 How Not to Fall in Love
author: Jacqueline Firkins
name: aly
average rating: 3.62
book published: 2021
rating: 3
read at: 2021/12/31
date added: 2025/05/30
shelves:
review:
I didn't expect to find myself liking a best friend to lover because: of course they have to go through with everyone to later realize that their hearts belong to each other.

It was sweet, painful and frenzied all the same. Not bad for my most unfavourable trope.

RTC
]]> <![CDATA[Sorcery of Thorns (Sorcery of Thorns, #1)]]> 42201395
Then an act of sabotage releases the library’s most dangerous grimoire. Elisabeth’s desperate intervention implicates her in the crime, and she is torn from her home to face justice in the capital. With no one to turn to but her sworn enemy, the sorcerer Nathaniel Thorn, and his mysterious demonic servant, she finds herself entangled in a centuries-old conspiracy. Not only could the Great Libraries go up in flames, but the world along with them.

As her alliance with Nathaniel grows stronger, Elisabeth starts to question everything she’s been taught—about sorcerers, about the libraries she loves, even about herself. For Elisabeth has a power she has never guessed, and a future she could never have imagined.]]> 456 Margaret Rogerson 1481497618 aly 3
"Books, too, had hearts, though they were not the same as people’s, and a book’s heart could be broken; she had seen it happen before. Grimoires that refused to open, their voices went silent, or whose ink faded and bled across the pages like tears."

Margaret Rogerson is one of the authors that I look forward to reading since she never just writes words. It's the feeling and sound of words instill in her books that always make them enjoyable. While I still find myself liking this one, I have to say that Sorcery of Thorns lacks vigor somewhere towards the end and I couldn’t be sure because I can’t remember the plot. I remember the characters, the vibes, the settings, and the way it felt to read the book but two years later, it misses me.

Undeniably, Rogerson created a rich fantasy world in a single installment without using a lot of information dumps. Everything works together flawlessly in the beginning to create a distinct and captivating setting. With beguiling characters, a slow-burning love story, and a world worth getting lost in — this adventure is riveting. She seduced me to fall in love with her notion of sorcerers and grimoires even though I had never given them much thought before. What feels like a long page bypass too quickly as I am getting immersed.

Elisabeth and Nathaniel also have a wonderful rapport since they bring out different aspects of one another throughout their journey. Their connection takes some time to develop, in contrast to the forced romances I'm used to seeing between polar opposite characters that leave me wondering what exactly makes them different but there was only mutual respect and funny banter at the beginning which makes them more creditable.

And of course, I couldn't miss the star of the show, the 'everyone's-favorite' without having to get to a consensus. Silas is such an enigma and it's a wonder how I never knew what to make of him yet he always steals the show. His overly courteous yet sardonic characteristics always ended up charming me. This book truly has a rather limited audience, which benefits it as the story remains largely character-driven and moves along smoothly.

However, I find myself slowing down when I find the book to haul and had difficulties continuing further due to the increasingly jarring and overpowering discrepancies in the plot and character development. Reading this book makes me somewhat puzzled, and I am not a good reader when I am confused. It had a promising beginning but lost way mid-through. The villain's intentions weren't made plain until the last chapter, and when it does, were extremely underwhelming. The actions scene didn't push me forward but made me wish I get to end this sooner.

When all is said and done, I can see why reading this is a blind bargain. You either ended up loving it, or you don't and I somehow stuck in the middle. This is ideal for your next cozy read if you're searching for a fun, hero-bright fantasy with action, humor, and a dash of intrigue and romance. But if you're in a slump and ought to succumb to the hype, I'd beg to reconsider.]]> 4.03 2019 Sorcery of Thorns (Sorcery of Thorns, #1)
author: Margaret Rogerson
name: aly
average rating: 4.03
book published: 2019
rating: 3
read at: 2021/01/15
date added: 2025/05/30
shelves:
review:
"Books, too, had hearts, though they were not the same as people’s, and a book’s heart could be broken; she had seen it happen before. Grimoires that refused to open, their voices went silent, or whose ink faded and bled across the pages like tears."

Margaret Rogerson is one of the authors that I look forward to reading since she never just writes words. It's the feeling and sound of words instill in her books that always make them enjoyable. While I still find myself liking this one, I have to say that Sorcery of Thorns lacks vigor somewhere towards the end and I couldn’t be sure because I can’t remember the plot. I remember the characters, the vibes, the settings, and the way it felt to read the book but two years later, it misses me.

Undeniably, Rogerson created a rich fantasy world in a single installment without using a lot of information dumps. Everything works together flawlessly in the beginning to create a distinct and captivating setting. With beguiling characters, a slow-burning love story, and a world worth getting lost in — this adventure is riveting. She seduced me to fall in love with her notion of sorcerers and grimoires even though I had never given them much thought before. What feels like a long page bypass too quickly as I am getting immersed.

Elisabeth and Nathaniel also have a wonderful rapport since they bring out different aspects of one another throughout their journey. Their connection takes some time to develop, in contrast to the forced romances I'm used to seeing between polar opposite characters that leave me wondering what exactly makes them different but there was only mutual respect and funny banter at the beginning which makes them more creditable.

And of course, I couldn't miss the star of the show, the 'everyone's-favorite' without having to get to a consensus. Silas is such an enigma and it's a wonder how I never knew what to make of him yet he always steals the show. His overly courteous yet sardonic characteristics always ended up charming me. This book truly has a rather limited audience, which benefits it as the story remains largely character-driven and moves along smoothly.

However, I find myself slowing down when I find the book to haul and had difficulties continuing further due to the increasingly jarring and overpowering discrepancies in the plot and character development. Reading this book makes me somewhat puzzled, and I am not a good reader when I am confused. It had a promising beginning but lost way mid-through. The villain's intentions weren't made plain until the last chapter, and when it does, were extremely underwhelming. The actions scene didn't push me forward but made me wish I get to end this sooner.

When all is said and done, I can see why reading this is a blind bargain. You either ended up loving it, or you don't and I somehow stuck in the middle. This is ideal for your next cozy read if you're searching for a fun, hero-bright fantasy with action, humor, and a dash of intrigue and romance. But if you're in a slump and ought to succumb to the hype, I'd beg to reconsider.
]]> Skip and Loafer, Vol. 1 56986485 A Cheerful Country Mouse!

Mitsumi is bound for high school in Tokyo! She’s got book smarts, but this small-town girl is about to find out she’s massively unprepared for the social norms of big city high schoolers.]]> 200 Misaki Takamatsu 1648275885 aly 4
This manga illustrated the difficulties that youngsters usually encounter in high school. As Mitsumi learns that the social life at Tsubame High is extremely dissimilar from her junior high school, we can see her floundering from her first day. She struggles to understand others, misses social cues, and strives to reconcile her dreams with reality. Skip and Loafer has a convenient plot and a straightforward premise. The story is practically banal in its core, yet it is told in a way that everyone can relate to. Although Mitsumi's narrative will be all too familiar to everyone who had the feeling square peg in round hole in high school, witnessing her rise to the occasion is nonetheless motivating.

For the most part, I really love Mitsumi's character. Aside from the forthright illustration where she happens to not be your average shoujo female character with the big eyes and long lashes, Mitsumi is the type of character that you'll grow to love as you know better. She is naive, yet very fun and down to earth. She works well with a variety of people because of her accommodating personality. Even though she occasionally falters and makes mistakes, she is able to rapidly make friends and settle into the social structure of the classroom because of her openness and friendliness, which tends to put other people at ease.

And of course we have the attractive and naturally outgoing guy she runs into at the station after getting lost; in which they hit right off the bat as soon as the two were introduced. Their classmates are surprised by their odd connection, given the opposite personality — but Souske's charms end up being exactly what Mitsumi needs to overcome the social divide between her and her new peers.

Despite offering the modest stakes, Skip and Loafer is by no means a dull narrative. In actuality, the manga is brought to life by its characters. Compared to the conventional "slice of life" characters, who frequently appeared as bland; Takamatsu offered more engaging and complex ones here. This manga makes me feel nostalgic since it gets me to reminisce back to my high school years. It was wonderful to reflect on those times and relate to them once more.

I believe this manga may appear to be overly simplistic, but it does have a strong grasp of its characters and plot, as well as a respectable sense of humour. Just go and pick this one up already.]]> 4.46 2019 Skip and Loafer, Vol. 1
author: Misaki Takamatsu
name: aly
average rating: 4.46
book published: 2019
rating: 4
read at: 2023/01/21
date added: 2025/05/29
shelves:
review:
Pumped up for this new seinen series that will soon be adapted and sure of myself getting seated for it. Just like the delightful cover, Skip and Loafer promised a bonzer story of Mitsumi who is headed to Tokyo for high school. Despite her aptitude in the classroom, this small-town girl is about to discover that she is utterly unprepared for the social mores of high schoolers in big cities.

This manga illustrated the difficulties that youngsters usually encounter in high school. As Mitsumi learns that the social life at Tsubame High is extremely dissimilar from her junior high school, we can see her floundering from her first day. She struggles to understand others, misses social cues, and strives to reconcile her dreams with reality. Skip and Loafer has a convenient plot and a straightforward premise. The story is practically banal in its core, yet it is told in a way that everyone can relate to. Although Mitsumi's narrative will be all too familiar to everyone who had the feeling square peg in round hole in high school, witnessing her rise to the occasion is nonetheless motivating.

For the most part, I really love Mitsumi's character. Aside from the forthright illustration where she happens to not be your average shoujo female character with the big eyes and long lashes, Mitsumi is the type of character that you'll grow to love as you know better. She is naive, yet very fun and down to earth. She works well with a variety of people because of her accommodating personality. Even though she occasionally falters and makes mistakes, she is able to rapidly make friends and settle into the social structure of the classroom because of her openness and friendliness, which tends to put other people at ease.

And of course we have the attractive and naturally outgoing guy she runs into at the station after getting lost; in which they hit right off the bat as soon as the two were introduced. Their classmates are surprised by their odd connection, given the opposite personality — but Souske's charms end up being exactly what Mitsumi needs to overcome the social divide between her and her new peers.

Despite offering the modest stakes, Skip and Loafer is by no means a dull narrative. In actuality, the manga is brought to life by its characters. Compared to the conventional "slice of life" characters, who frequently appeared as bland; Takamatsu offered more engaging and complex ones here. This manga makes me feel nostalgic since it gets me to reminisce back to my high school years. It was wonderful to reflect on those times and relate to them once more.

I believe this manga may appear to be overly simplistic, but it does have a strong grasp of its characters and plot, as well as a respectable sense of humour. Just go and pick this one up already.
]]> Cat's People 215805897 A stray cat brings together five strangers over the course of one fateful summer in this heartwarming novel about love, found family, and the power of connection.

Núria, a single-by-choice barista with a resentment for the “crazy cat lady” label, is a member of The Meow-Yorkers, a group in Brooklyn who takes care of the neighborhood’s stray cats. On one of her volunteering days, she starts finding Post-It notes from a secret admirer at the spot where her favorite stray lives—a black cat named Cat. Like most cats, he is rather curious and sly, so of course he knows who the notes are from. Núria, however, is clueless.

Are the notes from Collin, a bestselling author and self-professed hermit with a weakness for good coffee? Are they from Lily, a fresh-out-of-high school Georgia native searching for her long-lost half-sister? Are they from Omar, the beloved neighborhood mailman going through an early mid-life crisis? Or are they from Bong, the grieving widower who owns her favorite bodega? When Cat suddenly falls ill, these five strangers find themselves connected in their desire to care for him and discover that chance encounters can lead to the meaningful connections they've been searching for.]]> 304 Tanya Guerrero 059387384X aly 4 4.20 2025 Cat's People
author: Tanya Guerrero
name: aly
average rating: 4.20
book published: 2025
rating: 4
read at: 2025/05/14
date added: 2025/05/29
shelves:
review:
Anyone can write a book about cats and win me over it (˃
]]> Spy x Family, Vol. 5 58133437 200 Tatsuya Endo 197472817X aly 3
Although not much has happened, this book remains entertaining. We have Yor polishing her cooking skills, Yuri teaching Anya for her midterm, Loid on another disguising mission because he was concerned Anya's grade was not good enough to help his Operation Strix, but later encounter a new spy who intends to do the same thing as he did.

However, what happened next is the reason why I was inflamed into rating these three stars because I do not appreciate another presence as a potential Loid love interest. I mean, who actually prefers a love triangle? I do enjoy the trope being employed more in a manga than it was in a written novel, but I have to be assertive that I truly — like, truly not appreciating it this time.

Nightfall is a badass and strong sure, but she got nothing on Yor!! It was pretty funny that I got so worked up over a character that was introduced under light and humorous circumstances but anything that gets in the way of my parents, shall not see the light. Truthfully, this new character introduction got me on edge because it means that there will be lots of possibilities as to where this plot is heading and I don't need extra drama for Loid and Yor.

Not to say, as heartwarming and exciting the journey of reading this series had been, this volume had a lot more small side missions that I didn't think were integral to the story. Though, it would be a double edge sword for me if they fasten things up, because I am yet ready to impart with my unique family. Still, I wished we would have a little bit of something different this time. I was hoping we would get to see more of Bond and his foretell ability too, but was not given here.

Even so, this does not deter me from continuing this series. I just better get something more for my power couple in the next volume or I'll have an event planned. Thanks.]]> 4.46 2020 Spy x Family, Vol. 5
author: Tatsuya Endo
name: aly
average rating: 4.46
book published: 2020
rating: 3
read at: 2022/04/16
date added: 2025/05/28
shelves:
review:
To give this series its first three stars seem implausible. And just because I did, it does not mean that I did not enjoy them, because I do. I am still very much in love with the Forger family.

Although not much has happened, this book remains entertaining. We have Yor polishing her cooking skills, Yuri teaching Anya for her midterm, Loid on another disguising mission because he was concerned Anya's grade was not good enough to help his Operation Strix, but later encounter a new spy who intends to do the same thing as he did.

However, what happened next is the reason why I was inflamed into rating these three stars because I do not appreciate another presence as a potential Loid love interest. I mean, who actually prefers a love triangle? I do enjoy the trope being employed more in a manga than it was in a written novel, but I have to be assertive that I truly — like, truly not appreciating it this time.

Nightfall is a badass and strong sure, but she got nothing on Yor!! It was pretty funny that I got so worked up over a character that was introduced under light and humorous circumstances but anything that gets in the way of my parents, shall not see the light. Truthfully, this new character introduction got me on edge because it means that there will be lots of possibilities as to where this plot is heading and I don't need extra drama for Loid and Yor.

Not to say, as heartwarming and exciting the journey of reading this series had been, this volume had a lot more small side missions that I didn't think were integral to the story. Though, it would be a double edge sword for me if they fasten things up, because I am yet ready to impart with my unique family. Still, I wished we would have a little bit of something different this time. I was hoping we would get to see more of Bond and his foretell ability too, but was not given here.

Even so, this does not deter me from continuing this series. I just better get something more for my power couple in the next volume or I'll have an event planned. Thanks.
]]> Dead Girls Can't Tell Secrets 58367718
Piper Sullivan was in a strange hiking accident last month and has been in a coma ever since. Her older sister, Savannah, can't pretend to be optimistic about it; things look bad. Piper will likely never wake up, and Savannah will never get any answers about what exactly happened.

But then Savannah finds a note in Piper's locker, inviting Piper to a meeting of their school's wilderness club...at the very place and on the very day that she fell. Which means there was a chance that Piper wasn't alone. Someone might've seen something. Worse, someone might've done something. But who would want to hurt the perfect Piper Sullivan...and why?

To discover the truth, Savannah joins the club on their weekend-long camping trip on the same mountain where her sister fell. But she better be careful; everyone in the club is a suspect, and everyone seems to be keeping secrets about that tragic day.

And Savannah? She's been keeping secrets, too...]]> 336 Chelsea Ichaso 1728255996 aly 2 (Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for the eARC in exchange for a review)

Savannah is determined to unearth the truth when her sister, Piper went into a coma from an accident that seems unlikely to be a suicide attempt by joining Piper's Survival Club and befriending all of her friends that may be potential suspects. As she unraveled one clue after another, Savannah concluded there was more to this incident than meets the eye and she has a feeling she isn't the only one with secrets hidden beneath it.

I initially DNF this book when I first received the copy because it did not pique my interest enough to keep me going. However, when I noticed the book has been published, I tried my luck once again and decided to give it another chance. Though I managed to finish the book this time around, I mostly skimmed through it and the writing sadly did not get any less prosaic.

One thing that is very much obvious is how formulaic this book seems to be. I can see the author employing red herring (as any mystery book should) by having clues and using misdirection to both untangle the mystery and heighten the suspense except, I did not feel any tension in the mystery. Savannah went as far as pinpointing one suspect from the one clue she received to being overt in having them confess and soon finding another suspect to blame just because they said they "didn't do it."

That is to say, I appreciate that Ichaso tried to write a constructive convincing character by having an unreliable narrator with an inept ability to investigate the truth behind Piper's horrific fall. Savannah is fallible and it makes so much sense given the genre of the book itself, so you wouldn't expect Savannah to pull a Sherlock Holmes. Nonetheless, good mystery writing shows instead of tells, but Ichaso did not allow the reader to explore and discover the clues. Once it ended, it just ended there.

I was hoping this book to be on par with AGGTM but Holly Jackson raises the bar high for Pip as this book is nothing as such. I know, I hate comparing too, but it's really hard not to when you've got a taste of how a good YA mystery/thriller book should be. This book just seems to lack a lot in every department. The writing is incoherent and had no sense of continuity, the characters are all unlikeable, the plot is not exactly unpredictable and the ending was rushed. While I can see the author trying to embark on the mystery, this book also had lots of unnecessary teen drama that only serve to paint other characters as possible culprit but was unavailing.

Dead Girls Can't Tell Secrets is an easy read, thanks to the simple wording but still wasn't an exciting one to me. Everything harbored here is not the uncharted territory that you wouldn't encounter if you have read many mystery books, to begin with (surprisingly, I didn't read many mystery books but still find this book a bit tedious). I didn't think this book was horrible but some parts could definitely do a few improvements.]]> 3.66 2022 Dead Girls Can't Tell Secrets
author: Chelsea Ichaso
name: aly
average rating: 3.66
book published: 2022
rating: 2
read at: 2022/04/08
date added: 2025/05/28
shelves:
review:
(Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for the eARC in exchange for a review)

Savannah is determined to unearth the truth when her sister, Piper went into a coma from an accident that seems unlikely to be a suicide attempt by joining Piper's Survival Club and befriending all of her friends that may be potential suspects. As she unraveled one clue after another, Savannah concluded there was more to this incident than meets the eye and she has a feeling she isn't the only one with secrets hidden beneath it.

I initially DNF this book when I first received the copy because it did not pique my interest enough to keep me going. However, when I noticed the book has been published, I tried my luck once again and decided to give it another chance. Though I managed to finish the book this time around, I mostly skimmed through it and the writing sadly did not get any less prosaic.

One thing that is very much obvious is how formulaic this book seems to be. I can see the author employing red herring (as any mystery book should) by having clues and using misdirection to both untangle the mystery and heighten the suspense except, I did not feel any tension in the mystery. Savannah went as far as pinpointing one suspect from the one clue she received to being overt in having them confess and soon finding another suspect to blame just because they said they "didn't do it."

That is to say, I appreciate that Ichaso tried to write a constructive convincing character by having an unreliable narrator with an inept ability to investigate the truth behind Piper's horrific fall. Savannah is fallible and it makes so much sense given the genre of the book itself, so you wouldn't expect Savannah to pull a Sherlock Holmes. Nonetheless, good mystery writing shows instead of tells, but Ichaso did not allow the reader to explore and discover the clues. Once it ended, it just ended there.

I was hoping this book to be on par with AGGTM but Holly Jackson raises the bar high for Pip as this book is nothing as such. I know, I hate comparing too, but it's really hard not to when you've got a taste of how a good YA mystery/thriller book should be. This book just seems to lack a lot in every department. The writing is incoherent and had no sense of continuity, the characters are all unlikeable, the plot is not exactly unpredictable and the ending was rushed. While I can see the author trying to embark on the mystery, this book also had lots of unnecessary teen drama that only serve to paint other characters as possible culprit but was unavailing.

Dead Girls Can't Tell Secrets is an easy read, thanks to the simple wording but still wasn't an exciting one to me. Everything harbored here is not the uncharted territory that you wouldn't encounter if you have read many mystery books, to begin with (surprisingly, I didn't read many mystery books but still find this book a bit tedious). I didn't think this book was horrible but some parts could definitely do a few improvements.
]]> The Love Haters 217387810 It’s a thin line between love and love-hating.

Katie Vaughn has been burned by love in the past—now she may be lighting her career on fire. She has two choices: wait to get laid off from her job as a video producer or, at her coworker Cole’s request, take a career-making gig profiling Tom “Hutch” Hutcheson, a Coast Guard rescue swimmer in Key West.

The catch? Katie’s not exactly qualified. She can’t swim—but fakes it that she can.

Plus: Cole is Hutch’s brother. And they don’t get along. Next stop paradise!

But paradise is messier than it seems. As Katie gets entangled with Hutch (the most scientifically good looking man she has ever seen . . . but also a bit of a love hater), along with his colorful Aunt Rue and his rescue Great Dane, she gets trapped in a lie. Or two.

Swim lessons, helicopter flights, conga lines, drinking contests, hurricanes, and stolen kisses ensue—along with chances to tell the truth, to face old fears, and to be truly brave at last.]]> 320 Katherine Center 1250283825 aly 3 3.85 2025 The Love Haters
author: Katherine Center
name: aly
average rating: 3.85
book published: 2025
rating: 3
read at: 2025/05/28
date added: 2025/05/27
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Anyway, I'm Falling in Love with You Vol. 1]]> 59524511 169 Haruka Mitsui aly 4 (Thank you Netgalley for the eARC in exchange for a review)

I love this! I love this! First of all, what a way to start the book controversially. And a sports romance with best friend to lover? This manga is giving me butterflies!

To those who know me well enough know that I hate best friend to lover but childhood best friend to lover is significantly different and reading a manga of the said trope is a foreign feeling. Anyway I'm Falling in Love With You is a story of youth and growth of five childhood friends who were raised together in the residential neighbourhood of Koigahama Highland.

Nevertheless, childhood best friend to lovers always takes far too much telling that they grew up together which can be very exhausting. It also heavily relies on flashbacks and unrequited love; which this manga didn't go far from the premise. However, instead of reminding readers every five minutes to the fact that the characters were childhood best friends, the mangaka illustrates this brilliantly by telling the story in a recollection of events from Mizuha Nishino's as 17 years old teenager 10 years prior.

As one might expect, a story about a childhood best friend to lover isn't thorough without some frustrating plot points or events, as illustrated by the interrupted moments between Mizuha and Kizuki, or the fact that they have never really communicated since Kizuki's confession apart from when they see each other. This also made Kizuki's character in the manga appear a little pushy; which I still understand both sides of the characters because, while Kizuki knew exactly what he wanted, Mizuha doesn't.

And being the only girl in the group, you wouldn't expect Kizuki to be the only one who catches feelings. This made me so excited to see where the manga would progress with Shin and Nishino in the picture. I just wished Airu and Shuugo's character would be well accentuated and be as significant as the other two although I realized that this is only Volume 1.

The author also mentioned the original plan for this series which was supposed to take place in the summer of 2019 but due to the pandemic, some changes were made and you can see it nuanced in the manga at how much it has affected all of us. Especially when the manga captured the struggle as well as the love and bond among the characters; signifying the shining and sparkling youth that they only have now.

Overall, this was an adorable and entertaining read. I would surely keep my eyes out on the next release!

Update: They are releasing the anime for it this year (2025) and I'm already enjoying the first episode]]> 3.60 Anyway, I'm Falling in Love with You Vol. 1
author: Haruka Mitsui
name: aly
average rating: 3.60
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2024/11/10
date added: 2025/05/26
shelves:
review:
(Thank you Netgalley for the eARC in exchange for a review)

I love this! I love this! First of all, what a way to start the book controversially. And a sports romance with best friend to lover? This manga is giving me butterflies!

To those who know me well enough know that I hate best friend to lover but childhood best friend to lover is significantly different and reading a manga of the said trope is a foreign feeling. Anyway I'm Falling in Love With You is a story of youth and growth of five childhood friends who were raised together in the residential neighbourhood of Koigahama Highland.

Nevertheless, childhood best friend to lovers always takes far too much telling that they grew up together which can be very exhausting. It also heavily relies on flashbacks and unrequited love; which this manga didn't go far from the premise. However, instead of reminding readers every five minutes to the fact that the characters were childhood best friends, the mangaka illustrates this brilliantly by telling the story in a recollection of events from Mizuha Nishino's as 17 years old teenager 10 years prior.

As one might expect, a story about a childhood best friend to lover isn't thorough without some frustrating plot points or events, as illustrated by the interrupted moments between Mizuha and Kizuki, or the fact that they have never really communicated since Kizuki's confession apart from when they see each other. This also made Kizuki's character in the manga appear a little pushy; which I still understand both sides of the characters because, while Kizuki knew exactly what he wanted, Mizuha doesn't.

And being the only girl in the group, you wouldn't expect Kizuki to be the only one who catches feelings. This made me so excited to see where the manga would progress with Shin and Nishino in the picture. I just wished Airu and Shuugo's character would be well accentuated and be as significant as the other two although I realized that this is only Volume 1.

The author also mentioned the original plan for this series which was supposed to take place in the summer of 2019 but due to the pandemic, some changes were made and you can see it nuanced in the manga at how much it has affected all of us. Especially when the manga captured the struggle as well as the love and bond among the characters; signifying the shining and sparkling youth that they only have now.

Overall, this was an adorable and entertaining read. I would surely keep my eyes out on the next release!

Update: They are releasing the anime for it this year (2025) and I'm already enjoying the first episode
]]> Frizzy 59251233 Winner of the 2023 Eisner for Best Publication for Kids
October 2022 Indie Bestseller

New York Times- bestselling author Claribel A. Ortega and star debut artist Rose Bousamra's Frizzy is about Marlene, a young Dominican girl whose greatest enemy is the hair salon! Through her struggles and triumphs, this heartwarming and gorgeous middle-grade graphic novel shows the radical power of accepting yourself as you are, frizzy curls and all.

Marlene loves three books, her cool Tía Ruby and hanging out with her best friend Camila. But according to her mother, Paola, the only thing she needs to focus on is school and "growing up." That means straightening her hair every weekend so she could have "presentable", "good hair".

But Marlene hates being in the salon and doesn't understand why her curls are not considered pretty by those around her. With a few hiccups, a dash of embarrassment, and the much-needed help of Camila and Tia Ruby―she slowly starts a journey to learn to appreciate and proudly wear her curly hair.]]> 224 Claribel A. Ortega 1250259622 aly 4 (Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with the eARC in exchange for a review)

Frizzy is a middle-grade graphic novel that embarks on Marlene's journey to embrace and proudly wear her curly hair, with a few mishaps and a dash of embarrassment along the way.

"Adults are such weirdos. They say stuff like 'it's what on the inside that counts' but then the one thing they can't stop talking about is looks!"

"Be yourself, honesty is the best policy, and then don't be yourself, be what other people want"


I don't remember the last time a graphic novel made me teared up but Frizzy surely touched my soul with the message it tries to deliver. As much as I am not entirely in the same shoes as Marlene for not having a curly hair (what more when I'm wearing a hijab), it's also the kind of struggle I would understand. To accept your individuality while also not on par with what was supposed to be the standard is not an easy task, but this book shows that everyone is capable of independence and individuality — one just needs to be prepared to take whatever consequences their expression brings and it's the journey that I love to see Marlene discover.

I think it's fitting for its target audience to learn self-acceptance, especially at this crucial stage of adolescence as often, teens compare themselves to what society or their parents say they should be like. I love to see Marlene also getting all the support she could get to help her has an idea of who she is in the eyes of other people. It's just so emotional yet heartwarming.

Not to mention, the illustrations are equally stunning! It was done with such intricate dance between pictures and words, making this an exhilarating read. The fonts are easy to peruse and the wordings too, aren't cramping with one another. I personally think Frizzy is amazing!

Couldn't recommend it enough.]]> 4.56 2022 Frizzy
author: Claribel A. Ortega
name: aly
average rating: 4.56
book published: 2022
rating: 4
read at: 2022/06/08
date added: 2025/05/25
shelves:
review:
(Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with the eARC in exchange for a review)

Frizzy is a middle-grade graphic novel that embarks on Marlene's journey to embrace and proudly wear her curly hair, with a few mishaps and a dash of embarrassment along the way.

"Adults are such weirdos. They say stuff like 'it's what on the inside that counts' but then the one thing they can't stop talking about is looks!"

"Be yourself, honesty is the best policy, and then don't be yourself, be what other people want"


I don't remember the last time a graphic novel made me teared up but Frizzy surely touched my soul with the message it tries to deliver. As much as I am not entirely in the same shoes as Marlene for not having a curly hair (what more when I'm wearing a hijab), it's also the kind of struggle I would understand. To accept your individuality while also not on par with what was supposed to be the standard is not an easy task, but this book shows that everyone is capable of independence and individuality — one just needs to be prepared to take whatever consequences their expression brings and it's the journey that I love to see Marlene discover.

I think it's fitting for its target audience to learn self-acceptance, especially at this crucial stage of adolescence as often, teens compare themselves to what society or their parents say they should be like. I love to see Marlene also getting all the support she could get to help her has an idea of who she is in the eyes of other people. It's just so emotional yet heartwarming.

Not to mention, the illustrations are equally stunning! It was done with such intricate dance between pictures and words, making this an exhilarating read. The fonts are easy to peruse and the wordings too, aren't cramping with one another. I personally think Frizzy is amazing!

Couldn't recommend it enough.
]]> Spinning 33163388 Spinning, captures what it's like to come of age, come out, and come to terms with leaving behind everything you used to know.

It was the same every morning. Wake up, grab the ice skates, and head to the rink while the world was still dark.

Weekends were spent in glitter and tights at competitions. Perform. Smile. And do it again.

She was good. She won. And she hated it.

For ten years, figure skating was Tillie Walden's life. She woke before dawn for morning lessons, went straight to group practice after school, and spent weekends competing at ice rinks across the state. It was a central piece of her identity, her safe haven from the stress of school, bullies, and family. But over time, as she switched schools, got into art, and fell in love with her first girlfriend, she began to question how the close-minded world of figure skating fit in with the rest of her life, and whether all the work was worth it given the reality: that she, and her friends on the figure skating team, were nowhere close to Olympic hopefuls. It all led to one question: What was the point? The more Tillie thought about it, the more Tillie realized she'd outgrown her passion--and she finally needed to find her own voice.]]> 400 Tillie Walden 1626727724 aly 2 "Nothing felt easy, but at least it wasn't new anymore"

Spinning is a memoir of Walden as a competitive skater where it deals with all these subjects of finding oneself, bullying and sexuality. I love the message centring this book as it's something that I believe most of us could relate to.

Unfortunately, there were several aspects of this book that do not work out for me with how it was illustrated and written. To begin with, this book is too long and bores me to death. It probably has to do with the fact that this book is hefty enough, it's giving me headaches to process what was happening. Add that it didn't set down in interesting manners for me to continue as I find the most scenarios going back and forth (I honestly took 5 days to finish this when it usually takes me 3 hours maximum to finish a graphic novel).

While the subject matter is compelling and distinct; and the visuals perfectly convey Tillie's emotions, particularly her loneliness and tiredness, the story's pacing is inconsistent. Some aspects that could benefit more exploration are simply ignored, resulting in a missed opportunity to give depth to the plot. If I have to describe the tone of this book in a word, it's depressing. I know this is a memoir and it's quite unfair for me to rate a book based off someone else's life, but this is where the illustration should come handy. You are not trying to write a full fledge novel by describing everything that happened. I kind of expect it to be a hopeful one (which it does to a point) but all along, this book just dragged me down with them.]]> 3.90 2017 Spinning
author: Tillie Walden
name: aly
average rating: 3.90
book published: 2017
rating: 2
read at: 2021/09/08
date added: 2025/05/25
shelves:
review:
"Nothing felt easy, but at least it wasn't new anymore"


Spinning is a memoir of Walden as a competitive skater where it deals with all these subjects of finding oneself, bullying and sexuality. I love the message centring this book as it's something that I believe most of us could relate to.

Unfortunately, there were several aspects of this book that do not work out for me with how it was illustrated and written. To begin with, this book is too long and bores me to death. It probably has to do with the fact that this book is hefty enough, it's giving me headaches to process what was happening. Add that it didn't set down in interesting manners for me to continue as I find the most scenarios going back and forth (I honestly took 5 days to finish this when it usually takes me 3 hours maximum to finish a graphic novel).

While the subject matter is compelling and distinct; and the visuals perfectly convey Tillie's emotions, particularly her loneliness and tiredness, the story's pacing is inconsistent. Some aspects that could benefit more exploration are simply ignored, resulting in a missed opportunity to give depth to the plot. If I have to describe the tone of this book in a word, it's depressing. I know this is a memoir and it's quite unfair for me to rate a book based off someone else's life, but this is where the illustration should come handy. You are not trying to write a full fledge novel by describing everything that happened. I kind of expect it to be a hopeful one (which it does to a point) but all along, this book just dragged me down with them.
]]> My Love Mix-Up!, Vol. 1 57147089 176 Wataru Hinekure 1974725278 aly 4
My Love Mix-Up is a sweet and endearing story on how misunderstandings inspire to love growing between Aoki and Ida, two high school boys. Aoki has a crush on Hashimoto, but when he borrows her eraser, he notices Ida's name scribbled on it. His despair at realizing he has no chance against Ida is swiftly replaced by shame when he drops the eraser and Ida sees his name.

I never found any books that give justice to the miscommunication trope. I always, ALWAYS, ended up hating them. But trust me, if this is how a miscommunication trope will be in a novel, I wouldn’t mind one bit! The whole story from the start was hilarious and adorable ]]> 4.36 2019 My Love Mix-Up!, Vol. 1
author: Wataru Hinekure
name: aly
average rating: 4.36
book published: 2019
rating: 4
read at: 2022/02/26
date added: 2025/05/23
shelves:
review:
This was unnecessary information to share but I was watching The Rising of the Shield Hero and was in the mood to read shojo manga afterward. Then, I saw the Kieta Hatsukoi video on Tiktok for the second time and realized I have the manga with me! So, I finally started this and I’m never more glad that I did.

My Love Mix-Up is a sweet and endearing story on how misunderstandings inspire to love growing between Aoki and Ida, two high school boys. Aoki has a crush on Hashimoto, but when he borrows her eraser, he notices Ida's name scribbled on it. His despair at realizing he has no chance against Ida is swiftly replaced by shame when he drops the eraser and Ida sees his name.

I never found any books that give justice to the miscommunication trope. I always, ALWAYS, ended up hating them. But trust me, if this is how a miscommunication trope will be in a novel, I wouldn’t mind one bit! The whole story from the start was hilarious and adorable
]]> Scarred (Never After, #2) 59512586 She doesn't belong to him...she belongs to the crown.

Prince Tristan Faasa was never destined for the throne. That was always his brother, Michael. The same brother responsible for both Tristan's tormented childhood and the scar that mars his face. When their father dies, Michael is set to assume the throne, and Tristan is set to steal it. The leader of a secret rebellion, Tristan will stop at nothing to end his brother's reign. But when Michael's new betrothed, Lady Sara Beatreaux arrives, Tristan finds himself in the middle of a new kind of war. The kind that begs the question of what's more important, the crown or the woman about to wear it.

Sara has one plan. Marry the King and eradicate the Faasa line, even at the risk of her own peril. But she never expects the Scarred Prince. He's dangerous. Forbidden. And one of the men she's been sent to kill. But the line between hatred and passion has never seemed so thin, and as secrets come to light, Sara grows unsure of whom she can trust—torn between vengeance and the villain she was never supposed to love.

Scarred is a DARK Royal Romance and a complete standalone within The Never After Series (A series of fractured fairy tales inspired by our favorite villains). It is not a retelling or fantasy. It contains subject matter which may be triggering for some. Reader discretion is advised. ]]> 447 Emily McIntire aly 1
A thing that I love about McIntire's book is the disclaimer at the very beginning of the book because it helps the reader to lay the groundwork of the book's direction. So did I delve into the book with no expectation whatsoever since the author did say this will be a slow burn. However, as soon as I did, I realized that:
i) Era-themed is not my cup of tea if weren't done right — I think the reason why Hooked was an easy read was that it was set in a contemporary setting.
ii) Scarred is too slow for my liking — put an era-themed book with a deliberate build-up; better watch the paint dry anyway.
iii) The dialogue in this book is so calculated — it feels unnatural, consequently making some of the moments in the book sound just corny. I cannot take anything seriously, I'm sorry.

This also then makes me question if the only reason I enjoyed Hooked was because I was thrilled by the stamp of it being a Peterpan retelling, and everyone who knows me knows I am obsessed with Peterpan. Because not only this book has a predictable and boring storyline, the characters (even the H/h) are the blandest ones I've come to know.

The forbidden love sounds so promising and slow-burn supposed to serve as a wherein plot, methodically toward an explosive boiling point. Sadly, nothing was burning and there wasn't even tension between Sara and Tristan. I literally roamed through the book after the 30% mark because I couldn't find myself staying on a single page that long without falling asleep.

I was surprised to see that many had enjoyed this (like, why am I not on board with this). Maybe we were having a different prospect of what the book should be, I don't know; to each of their own. As for myself, I should've taken the warning seriously next time.]]> 3.86 2022 Scarred (Never After, #2)
author: Emily McIntire
name: aly
average rating: 3.86
book published: 2022
rating: 1
read at: 2022/01/21
date added: 2025/05/23
shelves:
review:
I was warned — I was told that this book would fall short, but I heed no mind. And now that I am disappointed, who am I to blame? Because as much as Hooked wasn't perfect, I enjoyed them, but Scarred feels like reading an entirely different work.

A thing that I love about McIntire's book is the disclaimer at the very beginning of the book because it helps the reader to lay the groundwork of the book's direction. So did I delve into the book with no expectation whatsoever since the author did say this will be a slow burn. However, as soon as I did, I realized that:
i) Era-themed is not my cup of tea if weren't done right — I think the reason why Hooked was an easy read was that it was set in a contemporary setting.
ii) Scarred is too slow for my liking — put an era-themed book with a deliberate build-up; better watch the paint dry anyway.
iii) The dialogue in this book is so calculated — it feels unnatural, consequently making some of the moments in the book sound just corny. I cannot take anything seriously, I'm sorry.

This also then makes me question if the only reason I enjoyed Hooked was because I was thrilled by the stamp of it being a Peterpan retelling, and everyone who knows me knows I am obsessed with Peterpan. Because not only this book has a predictable and boring storyline, the characters (even the H/h) are the blandest ones I've come to know.

The forbidden love sounds so promising and slow-burn supposed to serve as a wherein plot, methodically toward an explosive boiling point. Sadly, nothing was burning and there wasn't even tension between Sara and Tristan. I literally roamed through the book after the 30% mark because I couldn't find myself staying on a single page that long without falling asleep.

I was surprised to see that many had enjoyed this (like, why am I not on board with this). Maybe we were having a different prospect of what the book should be, I don't know; to each of their own. As for myself, I should've taken the warning seriously next time.
]]> The Woman in the Purple Skirt 55449486 224 Natsuko Imamura 0571364675 aly 3
In a world that was already dealing with a despondency epidemic before COVID-19, Imamura's book is a timely read as it is brimming with that nebulous, metropolitan loneliness that appears to be a trait of most modern Japanese writing. As it illustrates the difficulties faced by common workers in Japan's economy and work-life culture, The Woman in the Purple Skirt also provides a great discernment into Japanese society. For most of Japan's working class, job uncertainty and few professional options are daily realities, contrary to what we often see from the advancement of the country.

Admittedly, I don't know what I should be getting after reading this one at first. I was confused the moment it ends as I was trying to decipher if this was supposed to be about the Woman in the Purple Skirt or figuratively trying to highlight the Yellow Cardigan Woman's obsession and loneliness. You could have trouble with this if you prefer a gratifying conclusion and an easy-to-follow narrative. Rather than focusing on the plot, Imamura writes in straightforward, often nearly factual expression, but the writing's clarity obscures the reality of the situation.

While I don't usually enjoy books with rather ambiguous endings, Imamura left just enough for us to ponder on the wonders of both the woman in Purple Skirt and Yellow Skirt. It's just left to you what to make of it, which I could see why this book may not work out for most readers as it is not often that people are equipped of one's culture.]]> 3.32 2019 The Woman in the Purple Skirt
author: Natsuko Imamura
name: aly
average rating: 3.32
book published: 2019
rating: 3
read at: 2021/08/14
date added: 2025/05/23
shelves:
review:
Pick this one as my read for Woman in Translation month! And it is quite a quirky and entertaining story. The book's insights from the author come off as whimsical, charming, and occasionally poignant.

In a world that was already dealing with a despondency epidemic before COVID-19, Imamura's book is a timely read as it is brimming with that nebulous, metropolitan loneliness that appears to be a trait of most modern Japanese writing. As it illustrates the difficulties faced by common workers in Japan's economy and work-life culture, The Woman in the Purple Skirt also provides a great discernment into Japanese society. For most of Japan's working class, job uncertainty and few professional options are daily realities, contrary to what we often see from the advancement of the country.

Admittedly, I don't know what I should be getting after reading this one at first. I was confused the moment it ends as I was trying to decipher if this was supposed to be about the Woman in the Purple Skirt or figuratively trying to highlight the Yellow Cardigan Woman's obsession and loneliness. You could have trouble with this if you prefer a gratifying conclusion and an easy-to-follow narrative. Rather than focusing on the plot, Imamura writes in straightforward, often nearly factual expression, but the writing's clarity obscures the reality of the situation.

While I don't usually enjoy books with rather ambiguous endings, Imamura left just enough for us to ponder on the wonders of both the woman in Purple Skirt and Yellow Skirt. It's just left to you what to make of it, which I could see why this book may not work out for most readers as it is not often that people are equipped of one's culture.
]]> <![CDATA[Elements of Chemistry (Hypothesis, #1-3)]]> 25546175
ATTRACTION (45k words)
One week.
Private beach.
Invisible girl.
Jerk-faced bully.
What’s the worst that could happen?
Kaitlyn Parker has no problem being the invisible girl, which is why she finds herself hiding in various cabinets and closets all over her college campus. Despite her best efforts, she can’t escape the notice of Martin Sandeke—bad boy, jerkface bully, and the universe’s hottest, wealthiest, and most unobtainable bachelor—who also happens to be Kaitlyn’s chemistry lab partner.
Kaitlyn might be the only girl who isn’t interested in exploiting his stunning rower’s build, chiseled features, and family's billionaire fortune. Kaitlyn wants Martin for his brain, specifically to tabulate findings of trace elements in surface water.
When Kaitlyn saves Martin from a nefarious plot, Martin uses the opportunity to push Kaitlyn out of her comfort zone: spring break, one week, house parties, bathing suits, and suntan lotion. Can she overcome her aversion to being noticed? Will he be able grow beyond his self-centered nature? Or, despite their obvious chemistry, will Martin be the one to drive Kaitlyn into the science cabinet of obscurity for good?

HEAT (63k words)
Four days left.
Private beach (…and boat).
Not so invisible girl.
And maybe less of a jerk-faced bully than originally thought.
What’s the worst (or the best) that could happen?
Kaitlyn is finding life outside of the science cabinet of obscurity to be quite illuminating …and so are her pants.
When things heat up between Kaitlyn Parker and Martin—previously known as the jerk-faced bully—Sandeke, she places her trust in the one person she never thought capable of earning it, let alone keeping it safe. Fortunately or unfortunately for Kaitlyn, where she gives her trust she can’t help but also give her heart.
But how will the world beyond the sanctuary of their newfound connection react to their relationship? Soon senators, chinless billionaires, and elements beyond Martin and Kaitlyn’s control want to weigh in on the young couple’s future.
Navigating the chaotic inferno of new love might be more than Kaitlyn bargained for, and much, much more than her trust—or her heart—can handle.

CAPTURE
One week.
Manhattan apartment.
Super-hot ex-boyfriend.
…What’s the worst that could happen?
It’s been nine months since Kaitlyn Parker has seen or heard from Martin Sandeke—nine months and five stages of matter. She’s lived through the worst of first-love heartbreak, and is most certainly stronger (and less likely to hide in science cabinets) than ever before.
But now Martin is back. And he wants to be friends. But he’s sending mixed signals to the Bunsen burner in Kaitlyn’s pants.
Will Martin re-capture Kaitlyn’s heart? Can Kaitlyn and Martin ever be just friends? Or, despite an abundance of chemistry, are some bonds just too unstable to endure?]]> 583 Penny Reid aly 5 Once bitten twice shy they said. Whenever I fell in love with a book, the author's subsequent works often left me feeling let down. After my ecstatic review of Penny Reid's Ten Trends to Seduce Your Bestfriend, I decided to avoid the heartbreak by not starting any of her other works because I am supposed to learn how it will unfold, right? Alas, who am I to fool (obviously, I didn't learn enough; which I'm very glad in this case), because naturally, Penny Reid has to be the exception.

Undoubtedly, Reid's writing prowess is a double-edged sword; it's so exquisitely crafted that it compels me to the brink of wanting to pull my hair in sheer frustration and awe. It's a literary paradox — the way she weaves emotions into words is a masterclass, evoking a love so deep that when the narrative takes a melancholic turn, the ache is palpable.

"I also wanted him to trust me enough to risk his heart without trying to tear mine out in the process"


This trilogy is such a compelling romantic series that unfolds the dynamics between reclusive and brilliant student Kaitlyn Parker and the enigmatic, charming Martin Sandeke. It skillfully blends humor, wit, and moments of profound emotion. The narrative artfully explores their complex relationship as it unravels the myriad challenges they face – from the influence of those around them to the angst of first love, the frustrations of seemingly unrequited feelings, and the raw pain of heartbreak.

Initially, the book failed to captivate me, and Martin's attraction to Kaitlyn felt more like teenage hormones than genuine connection. Understanding his motives seemed elusive at first, leaving me uncertain about his true feelings for Kaitlyn. However, in Reid we believe as she skillfully portrayed the depth of the romance, gradually winning me over with a nuanced exploration of their relationship as the story goes.

The story is exclusively written from Kaitlyn's perspective, portraying her as the type to seek solace in the realms of science and books, revealing a character who is both quirky and mature. Her penchant for synonym games during emotional storms adds a whimsical touch to her character, as she intentionally cloaks herself in obtuseness, balancing sweetness within.

Meanwhile, Martin lies on the other side of this equation; a blend of obnoxiousness, and arrogance. Yet, his undeniable handsomeness, brilliance, and unwavering honesty add layers to his complexity. Throughout the narrative, imperfections pave the way for growth, and Martin transforms into a character marked by both flaws and a burgeoning sense of self.

And as it goes, the beauty lies in witnessing the evolution of these characters that in the end, you can't help but be enchanted by Kaitlyn and Martin—flaws, quirks, and all. It mirrors their own love story, revealing that, much like them, we too can't resist embracing the imperfect beauty of these characters.

To say this is such a roller-coaster ride is an understatement. Reid navigates the nuances of a strong attraction between two inherently different souls that it brings me to feel the pain that the characters are also going through. It's a poignant portrayal that left readers on the edge with every turn of the page.

With skillful storytelling, Penny Reid masterfully encapsulates the essence of "Elements of Chemistry," elaborately weaving the title into the fabric of the story and characters. Despite the longing for a bit more levity, this series comes highly admired for its rich emotional layers and captivating prose.

ps: (I feel like I haven't covered all the aspects that truly captivate me about this book, especially delving into the subtleties of the plot. At this point, it's becoming clear that Penny Reid consistently rendered me speechless)

pss: (Have I also said that I am in love with Penny Reid?)]]> 4.15 2015 Elements of Chemistry (Hypothesis, #1-3)
author: Penny Reid
name: aly
average rating: 4.15
book published: 2015
rating: 5
read at: 2023/12/01
date added: 2025/05/22
shelves:
review:
Once bitten twice shy they said. Whenever I fell in love with a book, the author's subsequent works often left me feeling let down. After my ecstatic review of Penny Reid's Ten Trends to Seduce Your Bestfriend, I decided to avoid the heartbreak by not starting any of her other works because I am supposed to learn how it will unfold, right? Alas, who am I to fool (obviously, I didn't learn enough; which I'm very glad in this case), because naturally, Penny Reid has to be the exception.

Undoubtedly, Reid's writing prowess is a double-edged sword; it's so exquisitely crafted that it compels me to the brink of wanting to pull my hair in sheer frustration and awe. It's a literary paradox — the way she weaves emotions into words is a masterclass, evoking a love so deep that when the narrative takes a melancholic turn, the ache is palpable.

"I also wanted him to trust me enough to risk his heart without trying to tear mine out in the process"


This trilogy is such a compelling romantic series that unfolds the dynamics between reclusive and brilliant student Kaitlyn Parker and the enigmatic, charming Martin Sandeke. It skillfully blends humor, wit, and moments of profound emotion. The narrative artfully explores their complex relationship as it unravels the myriad challenges they face – from the influence of those around them to the angst of first love, the frustrations of seemingly unrequited feelings, and the raw pain of heartbreak.

Initially, the book failed to captivate me, and Martin's attraction to Kaitlyn felt more like teenage hormones than genuine connection. Understanding his motives seemed elusive at first, leaving me uncertain about his true feelings for Kaitlyn. However, in Reid we believe as she skillfully portrayed the depth of the romance, gradually winning me over with a nuanced exploration of their relationship as the story goes.

The story is exclusively written from Kaitlyn's perspective, portraying her as the type to seek solace in the realms of science and books, revealing a character who is both quirky and mature. Her penchant for synonym games during emotional storms adds a whimsical touch to her character, as she intentionally cloaks herself in obtuseness, balancing sweetness within.

Meanwhile, Martin lies on the other side of this equation; a blend of obnoxiousness, and arrogance. Yet, his undeniable handsomeness, brilliance, and unwavering honesty add layers to his complexity. Throughout the narrative, imperfections pave the way for growth, and Martin transforms into a character marked by both flaws and a burgeoning sense of self.

And as it goes, the beauty lies in witnessing the evolution of these characters that in the end, you can't help but be enchanted by Kaitlyn and Martin—flaws, quirks, and all. It mirrors their own love story, revealing that, much like them, we too can't resist embracing the imperfect beauty of these characters.

To say this is such a roller-coaster ride is an understatement. Reid navigates the nuances of a strong attraction between two inherently different souls that it brings me to feel the pain that the characters are also going through. It's a poignant portrayal that left readers on the edge with every turn of the page.

With skillful storytelling, Penny Reid masterfully encapsulates the essence of "Elements of Chemistry," elaborately weaving the title into the fabric of the story and characters. Despite the longing for a bit more levity, this series comes highly admired for its rich emotional layers and captivating prose.

ps: (I feel like I haven't covered all the aspects that truly captivate me about this book, especially delving into the subtleties of the plot. At this point, it's becoming clear that Penny Reid consistently rendered me speechless)

pss: (Have I also said that I am in love with Penny Reid?)
]]> Cursed Bunny 56648660 Cursed Bunny is a genre-defying collection of short stories by Korean author Bora Chung. Blurring the lines between magical realism, horror, and science-fiction, Chung uses elements of the fantastic and surreal to address the very real horrors and cruelties of patriarchy and capitalism in modern society.

Anton Hur’s translation skilfully captures the way Chung’s prose effortlessly glides from being terrifying to wryly humorous. Winner of a PEN/Heim Grant.]]> 251 Bora Chung 1916277187 aly 4
The book's attempt to depict a selfish, patriarchal, and greedy society in vivid and unsettling detail is what I admired the most. Chung illustrates how egotism can lead people to commit heinous crimes against others and it's appalling to think this is also the reality of today. I appreciate how she refers to her characters in the third person, letting it be known that this might as well be anyone.

Although the exceptional exists in that universe, along with some ludicrous stories and others that are more prosaic — but the lyrical writing and knack for vivid and surreal imagery would not take the enjoyment of reading this bizarre book. Other times, a collection of short stories are not my preference. It's simply that since there isn't much space, writers must concentrate on a select few core features rather than many. Chung, on the other hand, employs short story collections to explore several genres and styles with such grace, brevity, and directness that many novels lack.

My favourite really had to be "The Head" in which a woman is tortured by a creature that keeps emerging in her toilet bowl in this mildly offensive story. The story is a surreally humorous yet oddly upsetting tale that it was a brilliant piece for putting the wind up with that opening. It was just witless and aghasting, especially as a frequent user of a toilet.

For the most part, if you have a faint of heart, this book may not be one to opt for, but if you're in for something mind-blowing, Cursed Bunny is a must-try debut book! Not to say, Anton Hur also did a wonderful job with the translation, making it an easy and quick read.]]> 3.76 2017 Cursed Bunny
author: Bora Chung
name: aly
average rating: 3.76
book published: 2017
rating: 4
read at: 2022/07/16
date added: 2025/05/21
shelves:
review:
Well, if it is not another grim yet illuminating Asian literature. I was told how quirky this book would be, but my brain is still processing it the whole time (like wtf am I reading). In the ten short tales in this book, Chung masterfully combines elements of horror, fantasy, and magical realism to create a fresh and original take on 'genre-defying'.

The book's attempt to depict a selfish, patriarchal, and greedy society in vivid and unsettling detail is what I admired the most. Chung illustrates how egotism can lead people to commit heinous crimes against others and it's appalling to think this is also the reality of today. I appreciate how she refers to her characters in the third person, letting it be known that this might as well be anyone.

Although the exceptional exists in that universe, along with some ludicrous stories and others that are more prosaic — but the lyrical writing and knack for vivid and surreal imagery would not take the enjoyment of reading this bizarre book. Other times, a collection of short stories are not my preference. It's simply that since there isn't much space, writers must concentrate on a select few core features rather than many. Chung, on the other hand, employs short story collections to explore several genres and styles with such grace, brevity, and directness that many novels lack.

My favourite really had to be "The Head" in which a woman is tortured by a creature that keeps emerging in her toilet bowl in this mildly offensive story. The story is a surreally humorous yet oddly upsetting tale that it was a brilliant piece for putting the wind up with that opening. It was just witless and aghasting, especially as a frequent user of a toilet.

For the most part, if you have a faint of heart, this book may not be one to opt for, but if you're in for something mind-blowing, Cursed Bunny is a must-try debut book! Not to say, Anton Hur also did a wonderful job with the translation, making it an easy and quick read.
]]> <![CDATA[Triple Threat (Deception Duet, #1)]]> 58636977
A perfect princess locked in a tower.

My father will never let me go.

Not that I could leave. I would never abandon my little sister. Hope comes in the form of a devilishly handsome man with dark eyes and darker secrets.

With each encounter, I’m lured deeper into the labyrinth. The danger lurking beneath his surface calls to me, even as it warns me away.

Except there’s a new side of him every time we meet. A different danger each time we touch. It’s as if three different men want to devour me.

He’s not just one villain. He’s three.
]]> 366 K. Webster 1953553451 aly 1
Also me the whole time:
Who tf is Winston and what did he do to them?


I also didn't know that this will be a reverse harem and while I didn't oppose it, for a first-timer; this wasn't very pleasant. I am bored, fell asleep three times (the book is short though), and almost DNF. I know that the triplet's main intention was to just used Landry which I get if all their interactions were purely sexual but then I feel no sense of connection between the triplets and the heroine.

To boot, this book lacks the main plot which I find some scenes either unnecessary or irrelevant. For example: when Sparrow had to replace Scout at an event because he was supposed to be the best equipped for it. But mind you, he only as far as to go bumping to Ty Constantine who had no idea who Sparrow is, and thinks, "I'll have to hide so people won't catch that I am the Mannford" instead of an imposter that goes by the name Ford Man and the chapter ends. Like, sure but what are the significance of your presence there in the first place then? Why would he need to switch his place with Scout? It just doesn't add up.

Not to say, Sparrow, Sully, and Scout were given different tasks but while having to carry the same identity, had no prior plan which made every interactivity with Landry clashes, given the very distinct traits each of them has. You are supposed to make this believable, but still can't come forth with something solid. Most of the things happening in this book either lack purpose, quite absurd or underdeveloped.

Relatively enjoying Sully and Laundry's moments/POVs with each other. Other than that, didn't think I'll continue with the series. Not worth the time.]]> 3.70 2022 Triple Threat (Deception Duet, #1)
author: K. Webster
name: aly
average rating: 3.70
book published: 2022
rating: 1
read at: 2022/01/13
date added: 2025/05/21
shelves:
review:
I started the book not knowing that this is a spin-off to another series so you can expect my confusion while reading this. And thus, I feel like something was missing and couldn't find myself connected much to the characters (mostly the triplet) since the reason they spread into Croft World was to seek retribution for what Winston did to them.

Also me the whole time:
Who tf is Winston and what did he do to them?


I also didn't know that this will be a reverse harem and while I didn't oppose it, for a first-timer; this wasn't very pleasant. I am bored, fell asleep three times (the book is short though), and almost DNF. I know that the triplet's main intention was to just used Landry which I get if all their interactions were purely sexual but then I feel no sense of connection between the triplets and the heroine.

To boot, this book lacks the main plot which I find some scenes either unnecessary or irrelevant. For example: when Sparrow had to replace Scout at an event because he was supposed to be the best equipped for it. But mind you, he only as far as to go bumping to Ty Constantine who had no idea who Sparrow is, and thinks, "I'll have to hide so people won't catch that I am the Mannford" instead of an imposter that goes by the name Ford Man and the chapter ends. Like, sure but what are the significance of your presence there in the first place then? Why would he need to switch his place with Scout? It just doesn't add up.

Not to say, Sparrow, Sully, and Scout were given different tasks but while having to carry the same identity, had no prior plan which made every interactivity with Landry clashes, given the very distinct traits each of them has. You are supposed to make this believable, but still can't come forth with something solid. Most of the things happening in this book either lack purpose, quite absurd or underdeveloped.

Relatively enjoying Sully and Laundry's moments/POVs with each other. Other than that, didn't think I'll continue with the series. Not worth the time.
]]> Unloved (The Undone, #2) 214195481 The USA TODAY bestselling follow-up to Peyton Corinne’s “unputdownable and unforgettable” (Bal Khabra, author of Collide) TikTok sensation Unsteady follows hopeless romantic Ro and player—on and off the ice—Freddy as they forge an unexpected bond that slowly turns into a life lesson in self-worth and the healing quality of love.

Matt “Freddy” Fredderic is all smiles—at least on the surface. On the ice, he’s the star left winger for the Waterfell Wolves with a stellar reputation in bed and a potential future in the NHL. But in the classroom, he’s barely scraping by on a 2.0 GPA, retaking failed classes and struggling with a rough mix of dyslexia, dyscalculia, and ADHD. Now tied to an NHL contract upon graduation, Freddy needs help to pass biology with a professor he has a tumultuous past with.

Ro Shariff is a hopeless romantic with terrible luck in love—and now, Freddy’s newly assigned tutor. Trying to convince herself that she’s very happy with her on again/off again boyfriend, Ro is desperate for real affection. As her tutoring sessions with Freddy lead to late-night phone calls and a deep understanding of each other’s hidden pains, a real friendship strikes up between them.

And, inevitably, a wistful secret pining hidden by them both. Ro can’t stop thinking about her first kiss her freshman year with Freddy—a spine-tingling moment that Freddy doesn’t seem to remember. Meanwhile, Freddy can’t let go of Ro’s drunken heartfelt confessions from the night she doesn’t remember.

While Freddy is determined to protect Ro from his reputation and prove to her how worthy of love she is, Ro wants to show Freddy that despite what others have led him to believe, he’s worth more than just his body. Together, with gentle affection and true admiration, they will show each other how easy it is to love the right person, no matter their flaws.]]> 461 Peyton Corinne 1668068508 aly 2
Undeniably, Freddy and Ro are one of the most tender-hearted characters I’ve encountered. They ache with longing, carry the weight of grief, and slowly discover what it means to be loved unconditionally. I completely empathize with Matty's pain—losing his mother, enduring manipulation from someone he trusted, and dealing with a narcissistic father. His fragility feels raw, authentic, and deeply valid.

Ro, on the other hand...
There are many times when I cried for a character and wanted them to be transparent of their feelings and cried with me, but Ro might actually cry too much it gets exhausting. While vulnerability can be powerful, her frequent crying felt excessive, overshadowing other aspects of her character and making it harder to fully connect with her journey. She comes from a loving family, and while she faces challenges like homesickness and a toxic ex-boyfriend, I felt that many of her struggles felt more self-imposed than external; especially when girl is just adventurous but held back by the fear of being judged.

Therefore, given their personalities, I found both characters to be quite passive. They spend much of their time in states of sadness, heartbreak, or moping, which made their story lack excitement and momentum. Instead of feeling dynamic or engaging, the narrative often felt flat and unnecessarily drawn out. To make matters worse, Freddy and Ro are so similar in their emotional struggles that it became difficult to distinguish between them, leaving their individual arcs feeling indistinct and repetitive.

“I think you’d be easy to love”

Lord, I wish I could say the same to this book. Even so, it feels like the author leaned too heavily on this particular quote, trying to build the entire plot around it in an attempt to tug at readers' heartstrings. Instead, it came across as forced, and I found myself unmoved as the overreliance on this element made the story feel more contrived.

One of the other biggest missed of this book is that: the series has consistently focused solely on the main characters, when there’s so much potential for deeper connections with the found family aspect. The hockey families and their partners have such rich dynamics that could add layers to the story, yet this book — like the others, felt limited. I didn’t care much for Sadie and Rhys, sure; but their presence was so minimal you could count it on one hand. Despite being meant as significant friends to Ro and Freddy (debatable), they felt very insignificant. The small tidbit at the end didn’t make up for their near absence throughout the story, consequently made me feel disconnected from the larger community I had hoped to enjoy.

Another issue I had was the storytelling itself. This book overlaps with The Unsteady, and I honestly couldn't recall much from that book. There were moments where past events were referenced, but without a clear reminder, it was hard to understand what was going on. The narrative assumes you know the previous events, but for those of us who don’t remember every detail, it left me feeling lost. Not to say, the abrupt scene jumps between chapters feel sudden and jarring, disrupting the story’s flow and leaving readers disoriented. It’s a recurring issue that was never fixed, even after being noted in the previous book.

In the end, despite being presented with a wholesome epilogue and lovable characters who learned to trust each other, I didn’t feel that they truly grew as individuals. Their personal development felt stagnant despite the super long pages (I don't think it should be this long guys). Therefore, as much as it hurts me to settle with two stars, this is where I think their story stands.

Nevertheless, if you're looking for an emotionally layered story filled with heartfelt moments and mutual longing, this book might be the perfect fit for you.

p/s: I still don't like Sadie and I dislike her more in this book for some reasons lol]]> 4.23 2025 Unloved (The Undone, #2)
author: Peyton Corinne
name: aly
average rating: 4.23
book published: 2025
rating: 2
read at: 2025/02/15
date added: 2025/05/21
shelves:
review:
Heavy siggggghhhhh. If you read my earlier review of the first book, you’d know how much I truly wanted to love this one. From the very start, I found myself deeply invested in Ro and Freddy's story. Woefully, while I have a deep affection for them, I can’t deny that the story fell short of my expectations and this book failed to stand out on its own.

Undeniably, Freddy and Ro are one of the most tender-hearted characters I’ve encountered. They ache with longing, carry the weight of grief, and slowly discover what it means to be loved unconditionally. I completely empathize with Matty's pain—losing his mother, enduring manipulation from someone he trusted, and dealing with a narcissistic father. His fragility feels raw, authentic, and deeply valid.

Ro, on the other hand...
There are many times when I cried for a character and wanted them to be transparent of their feelings and cried with me, but Ro might actually cry too much it gets exhausting. While vulnerability can be powerful, her frequent crying felt excessive, overshadowing other aspects of her character and making it harder to fully connect with her journey. She comes from a loving family, and while she faces challenges like homesickness and a toxic ex-boyfriend, I felt that many of her struggles felt more self-imposed than external; especially when girl is just adventurous but held back by the fear of being judged.

Therefore, given their personalities, I found both characters to be quite passive. They spend much of their time in states of sadness, heartbreak, or moping, which made their story lack excitement and momentum. Instead of feeling dynamic or engaging, the narrative often felt flat and unnecessarily drawn out. To make matters worse, Freddy and Ro are so similar in their emotional struggles that it became difficult to distinguish between them, leaving their individual arcs feeling indistinct and repetitive.

“I think you’d be easy to love”

Lord, I wish I could say the same to this book. Even so, it feels like the author leaned too heavily on this particular quote, trying to build the entire plot around it in an attempt to tug at readers' heartstrings. Instead, it came across as forced, and I found myself unmoved as the overreliance on this element made the story feel more contrived.

One of the other biggest missed of this book is that: the series has consistently focused solely on the main characters, when there’s so much potential for deeper connections with the found family aspect. The hockey families and their partners have such rich dynamics that could add layers to the story, yet this book — like the others, felt limited. I didn’t care much for Sadie and Rhys, sure; but their presence was so minimal you could count it on one hand. Despite being meant as significant friends to Ro and Freddy (debatable), they felt very insignificant. The small tidbit at the end didn’t make up for their near absence throughout the story, consequently made me feel disconnected from the larger community I had hoped to enjoy.

Another issue I had was the storytelling itself. This book overlaps with The Unsteady, and I honestly couldn't recall much from that book. There were moments where past events were referenced, but without a clear reminder, it was hard to understand what was going on. The narrative assumes you know the previous events, but for those of us who don’t remember every detail, it left me feeling lost. Not to say, the abrupt scene jumps between chapters feel sudden and jarring, disrupting the story’s flow and leaving readers disoriented. It’s a recurring issue that was never fixed, even after being noted in the previous book.

In the end, despite being presented with a wholesome epilogue and lovable characters who learned to trust each other, I didn’t feel that they truly grew as individuals. Their personal development felt stagnant despite the super long pages (I don't think it should be this long guys). Therefore, as much as it hurts me to settle with two stars, this is where I think their story stands.

Nevertheless, if you're looking for an emotionally layered story filled with heartfelt moments and mutual longing, this book might be the perfect fit for you.

p/s: I still don't like Sadie and I dislike her more in this book for some reasons lol
]]> The Dead Romantics 58885776 Alternate cover edition of ISBN 9780593336489.

Florence Day is the ghostwriter for one of the most prolific romance authors in the industry, and she has a problem—after a terrible breakup, she no longer believes in love. It’s as good as dead.

When her new editor, a too-handsome mountain of a man, won’t give her an extension on her book deadline, Florence prepares to kiss her career goodbye. But then she gets a phone call she never wanted to receive, and she must return home for the first time in a decade to help her family bury her beloved father.

For ten years, she’s run from the town that never understood her, and even though she misses the sound of a warm Southern night and her eccentric, loving family and their funeral parlor, she can’t bring herself to stay. Even with her father gone, it feels like nothing in this town has changed. And she hates it.

Until she finds a ghost standing at the funeral parlor’s front door, just as broad and infuriatingly handsome as ever, and he’s just as confused about why he’s there as she is.

Romance is most certainly dead... but so is her new editor, and his unfinished business will have her second-guessing everything she’s ever known about love stories.

A disillusioned millennial ghostwriter who, quite literally, has some ghosts of her own, has to find her way back home in this sparkling adult debut from national bestselling author Ashley Poston.]]> 368 Ashley Poston aly 3
However, the romance did not win me as much as I hoped for. It feels like the whole plot shifted more on the funeral and the philosophy behind death, which is still pretty cool. While this book is likeable, it does not have the wow factor that makes me wanna rate this five stars.

If this book is marketed faithfully, I would have probably enjoy this better by having the right expectation. For now, it's fair to middling but I can see why people are loving it.

Further RTC]]> 3.90 2022 The Dead Romantics
author: Ashley Poston
name: aly
average rating: 3.90
book published: 2022
rating: 3
read at: 2022/08/31
date added: 2025/05/19
shelves:
review:
This book is enjoyable with one of the most interesting premises.

However, the romance did not win me as much as I hoped for. It feels like the whole plot shifted more on the funeral and the philosophy behind death, which is still pretty cool. While this book is likeable, it does not have the wow factor that makes me wanna rate this five stars.

If this book is marketed faithfully, I would have probably enjoy this better by having the right expectation. For now, it's fair to middling but I can see why people are loving it.

Further RTC
]]> A Perfect Day to Be Alone 156512861 It was raining when I arrived at the house. The walls of my room were lined with cat photos, set in fancy frames just below the ceiling.

When her mother emigrates to China for work, twenty-year-old Chizu moves in with 71-year-old Ginko, an eccentric distant relative, taking a room in her ramshackle Tokyo home, with two its resident cats and the persistent rattle of passing trains.

Living their lives in imperfect symmetry, they establish an uneasy alliance, stress tested by Chizu's flashes of youthful spite. As the four seasons pass, Chizu navigates a series of tedious part-time jobs and unsatisfying relationships, before eventually finding her feet and salvaging a fierce independence from her solitude.

A Perfect Day to Be Alone is a moving, microscopic examination of loneliness and heartbreak. With flashes of deadpan humour and a keen eye for poignant detail, Aoyama chronicles the painful process of breaking free from the moorings of youth.]]> 160 Nanae Aoyama 152942769X aly 2 A Perfect Day to Be Alone is a novel that attempts to capture the quiet struggles of early adulthood but, alas falls short of leaving a lasting impression.

The story follows 20-year-old Chizu as she moves to Tokyo, seeking independence while her mother works in China. With no money, she stays with Ginko; elderly relative and spends a year navigating love, heartbreak, work, and loneliness. While the premise holds promise, the execution feels lackluster and uninspired.

One of the book’s strengths lies in its seasonal structure, which mirrors Chizu’s emotional journey. The division into Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter provides a framework for her growth; and Aoyama’s spare, understated prose effectively conveys the melancholic atmosphere of her life in Tokyo. There are moments of deadpan humor and subtle introspection that add depth to the narrative, and the contrast between Chizu, her mother, and Ginko offers a thoughtful exploration of generational differences and societal expectations. Ginko, in particular, stands out as a character who embodies resilience and fulfillment, providing a stark contrast to Chizu’s aimlessness.

However, the novel’s flaws are hard to overlook. Writing unlikeable character can be a hit or a miss, depending on how you write your character. Chizu, as a protagonist is cynical, unmotivated, and often mean-spirited. While her flaws may make her realistic, they also make it difficult to root for her especially for a reader like me, who places a lot of importance on how a character is portrayed. That said, characters don’t necessarily have to be kind or good to be compelling; the way the story is told and the depth of their development is what play a crucial role in shaping the reader’s engagement. As for me, it is not worthwhile.

Much of the reason is that her lack of curiosity, ambition, or meaningful relationships leaves little to invest in, and the story often feels stagnant as a result. The plot itself is thin, with little happening beyond mundane daily struggles, and the pacing can feel tedious at times. Therefore, the book’s reliance on symbolism and ambiguity may appeal to some, but it often comes across as superficial — leaving too much unsaid and too little to hold onto.

Nevertheless, the novel’s exploration of loneliness and the challenge of adulthood is relatable in theory, but Chizu’s constant negativity and lack of growth is what make it hard to fully engage with her journey (perhaps a matter of preference and subjective experience). While the ending attempts to strike a hopeful note, it feels not merited as Chizu’s development throughout the story is minimal at best.

Ultimately, this book did try to find meaning in the mundane, but struggles to deliver an imperative or memorable experience. While it has moments of insight and a few well-drawn characters, its unlikable protagonist, slow pacing, and lack of plot make it a taxing read. For those who enjoy introspective, slice-of-life stories, it may offer some appeal, but unfortunately, it seems to me that this is forgettable and disappointing.]]> 3.33 2007 A Perfect Day to Be Alone
author: Nanae Aoyama
name: aly
average rating: 3.33
book published: 2007
rating: 2
read at: 2025/02/17
date added: 2025/05/19
shelves:
review:
Nanae Aoyama’s A Perfect Day to Be Alone is a novel that attempts to capture the quiet struggles of early adulthood but, alas falls short of leaving a lasting impression.

The story follows 20-year-old Chizu as she moves to Tokyo, seeking independence while her mother works in China. With no money, she stays with Ginko; elderly relative and spends a year navigating love, heartbreak, work, and loneliness. While the premise holds promise, the execution feels lackluster and uninspired.

One of the book’s strengths lies in its seasonal structure, which mirrors Chizu’s emotional journey. The division into Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter provides a framework for her growth; and Aoyama’s spare, understated prose effectively conveys the melancholic atmosphere of her life in Tokyo. There are moments of deadpan humor and subtle introspection that add depth to the narrative, and the contrast between Chizu, her mother, and Ginko offers a thoughtful exploration of generational differences and societal expectations. Ginko, in particular, stands out as a character who embodies resilience and fulfillment, providing a stark contrast to Chizu’s aimlessness.

However, the novel’s flaws are hard to overlook. Writing unlikeable character can be a hit or a miss, depending on how you write your character. Chizu, as a protagonist is cynical, unmotivated, and often mean-spirited. While her flaws may make her realistic, they also make it difficult to root for her especially for a reader like me, who places a lot of importance on how a character is portrayed. That said, characters don’t necessarily have to be kind or good to be compelling; the way the story is told and the depth of their development is what play a crucial role in shaping the reader’s engagement. As for me, it is not worthwhile.

Much of the reason is that her lack of curiosity, ambition, or meaningful relationships leaves little to invest in, and the story often feels stagnant as a result. The plot itself is thin, with little happening beyond mundane daily struggles, and the pacing can feel tedious at times. Therefore, the book’s reliance on symbolism and ambiguity may appeal to some, but it often comes across as superficial — leaving too much unsaid and too little to hold onto.

Nevertheless, the novel’s exploration of loneliness and the challenge of adulthood is relatable in theory, but Chizu’s constant negativity and lack of growth is what make it hard to fully engage with her journey (perhaps a matter of preference and subjective experience). While the ending attempts to strike a hopeful note, it feels not merited as Chizu’s development throughout the story is minimal at best.

Ultimately, this book did try to find meaning in the mundane, but struggles to deliver an imperative or memorable experience. While it has moments of insight and a few well-drawn characters, its unlikable protagonist, slow pacing, and lack of plot make it a taxing read. For those who enjoy introspective, slice-of-life stories, it may offer some appeal, but unfortunately, it seems to me that this is forgettable and disappointing.
]]> People from My Neighborhood 57251431 From the author of the internationally bestselling Strange Weather in Tokyo, a collection of interlinking stories that masterfully blend the mundane and the mythical—“fairy tales in the best Brothers Grimm tradition: naif, magical, and frequently veering into the macabre” (Financial Times).

A bossy child who lives under a white cloth near a t­ree; a schoolgirl who keeps doll’s brains in a desk drawer; an old man with two shadows, one docile and one rebellious; a diplomat no one has ever seen who goes fishing at an artificial lake no one has ever heard of. These are some of the inhabitants of People From My Neighborhood. In their lives, details of the local and everyday—the lunch menu at a tiny drinking place called the Love, the color and shape of the roof of the tax office—slip into accounts of duels, prophetic dreams, revolutions, and visitations from ghosts and gods. In twenty-six “palm of the hand” stories—fictions small enough to fit in the palm of one’s hand—Hiromi Kawakami creates a universe ruled by mystery and transformation.]]> 159 Hiromi Kawakami 1593767110 aly 3
The translator has done an excellent job translating the crisp, concise style, and each story entices readers with a perplexing mystery or a fascinating character. Despite the shortcoming, it's that many of the stories all come to the same strange, unresolved ending, making it of it’s own kind.

I love how the author used her imagination and even when it almost felt pointless, it’s complementary to the Japanese culture. If truth be told, I wouldn’t think I’d enjoy it as much if it were taken from other cultures.

The reason why I rated it three stars though was: i) as made known, I'm not a big fan of magical realism. ii) Even when each short story is literally, short but to a point, I feel like it's never-ending and started to get draggy. I enjoyed them most of the time but somehow wished the story would be done soon.

Nevertheless, this book is quirky, unique, and dark. Though it's peculiar to us, at least, to her, they are simply her neighbours! Recommended if you want some short surrealism comedy ]]> 3.55 2020 People from My Neighborhood
author: Hiromi Kawakami
name: aly
average rating: 3.55
book published: 2020
rating: 3
read at: 2022/01/08
date added: 2025/05/19
shelves:
review:
People from My Neighbourhood is a delightful read of a collection of interlinking short stories, set in an ostensibly typical Japanese neighbourhood that turns out to be pretty exceptional. Reading this feels like you’re on crack but girl didn't I enjoy it!

The translator has done an excellent job translating the crisp, concise style, and each story entices readers with a perplexing mystery or a fascinating character. Despite the shortcoming, it's that many of the stories all come to the same strange, unresolved ending, making it of it’s own kind.

I love how the author used her imagination and even when it almost felt pointless, it’s complementary to the Japanese culture. If truth be told, I wouldn’t think I’d enjoy it as much if it were taken from other cultures.

The reason why I rated it three stars though was: i) as made known, I'm not a big fan of magical realism. ii) Even when each short story is literally, short but to a point, I feel like it's never-ending and started to get draggy. I enjoyed them most of the time but somehow wished the story would be done soon.

Nevertheless, this book is quirky, unique, and dark. Though it's peculiar to us, at least, to her, they are simply her neighbours! Recommended if you want some short surrealism comedy
]]>