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bookaroundandfindout's reviews
162 reviews
Her Psycho Beasts by E.P. Bali
adventurous
dark
emotional
hopeful
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
SHARK DADDY DID NOT DISAPPOINT!!
Holy crap this third book was INSANE!! I barely have words as to how great this was. We focus on Scythe in this book and getting inside of his head and motivations was really amazing. He’s probably the more tortured one of the mates and we get to see how his childhood built him into the ruthless man he is today. We also get to see Aurelia grow as she gets closer to one of her new mates. I really don’t want to spoil anything but I will say that there is so much stuff I did NOT expect to happen at ALL. And I’m not mad at it but I really hate this cliffhanger because I’m dying for the next book right now. Great plot line and my heart is broken and bleeding right now 🥹🥹🥹😅🩷🩷🩷🩷🩷
Holy crap this third book was INSANE!! I barely have words as to how great this was. We focus on Scythe in this book and getting inside of his head and motivations was really amazing. He’s probably the more tortured one of the mates and we get to see how his childhood built him into the ruthless man he is today. We also get to see Aurelia grow as she gets closer to one of her new mates. I really don’t want to spoil anything but I will say that there is so much stuff I did NOT expect to happen at ALL. And I’m not mad at it but I really hate this cliffhanger because I’m dying for the next book right now. Great plot line and my heart is broken and bleeding right now 🥹🥹🥹😅🩷🩷🩷🩷🩷
Poverty, by America by Matthew Desmond
challenging
informative
reflective
slow-paced
5.0
So much to unpack about this book. This is a great reference to understanding how deep and widespread poverty is. It also breaks down all of the stereotypical reasons we think poverty exists “people don’t wanna work”, “government handouts”, “people are lazy”. None of these reasons or the numerous others ones our society has been fed are really the real reason. The truth is that there’s tons of reasons. Matthew Desmond has taken extensive research and compiled together a history of poverty in America, its roots that are embedded in our society, and proposes potential ways to take action. I really liked the book and feel more well informed.
The Dawn of the Cursed Queen by Amber V. Nicole
adventurous
dark
emotional
hopeful
informative
inspiring
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
I. AM. FLOORED. Amber V. Nicole, you've utterly <i>ruined</i> me with <i>The Dawn of the Cursed Queen<i>.
In this third installment of the <i>Gods and Monsters<i> series, we witness Dianna truly succumb to the broken parts of herself—and honestly, I can totally relate. Dianna is constantly plagued by feelings of inadequacy, vilifying herself for the extreme lengths she would go to save or protect those she loves. The world often seems to hate her for it—or so she believes. After spending over a thousand years being emotionally abused and treated like a mere tool, it's no wonder that when Samkiel, her amata, finally gives her the love she deserves, her instinct is to bolt. I see so much of myself in her character.
This book is a bit crazier than the last two, with many moving pieces and several POVs. We gradually uncover the secrets that each character is holding. However, at its core, this book is about recovery. While it may feel somewhat like a filler book, it still delivers crucial information and contains some (no spoilers here) <b>astounding<b> moments that leave me aching for the fourth book.
Amber, you've broken me. I'm now a mindless wreck, desperately waiting for you to drop the next installment.
In this third installment of the <i>Gods and Monsters<i> series, we witness Dianna truly succumb to the broken parts of herself—and honestly, I can totally relate. Dianna is constantly plagued by feelings of inadequacy, vilifying herself for the extreme lengths she would go to save or protect those she loves. The world often seems to hate her for it—or so she believes. After spending over a thousand years being emotionally abused and treated like a mere tool, it's no wonder that when Samkiel, her amata, finally gives her the love she deserves, her instinct is to bolt. I see so much of myself in her character.
This book is a bit crazier than the last two, with many moving pieces and several POVs. We gradually uncover the secrets that each character is holding. However, at its core, this book is about recovery. While it may feel somewhat like a filler book, it still delivers crucial information and contains some (no spoilers here) <b>astounding<b> moments that leave me aching for the fourth book.
Amber, you've broken me. I'm now a mindless wreck, desperately waiting for you to drop the next installment.
The Memo: What Women of Color Need to Know to Secure a Seat at the Table by Minda Harts
informative
inspiring
reflective
fast-paced
5.0
I found this book very helpful as a WOC and the tips and stories were quite insightful. I related a lot with some of the authors discoveries about the challenges of the workplace for WOC and how to navigate them. Definitely a great read if you’re looking for the confidence free to get ahead at work and life !
To Snap a Silver Stem by Sarah A. Parker
dark
emotional
mysterious
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
Ugh what the heck. Again, writing is beautiful, plot is confusing as hell. Main FMC is annoying and childish with literally no growth to. She’s an idiot and a child and for five second I thought we would learn more about her but nope, she was too busy being irritating and annoying. I stuck through because the ending actually did stress me out and I’ve started the third book but over all this has been an exhausting read for me.
To Bleed a Crystal Bloom by Sarah A. Parker
dark
emotional
mysterious
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.25
So I’m reading this after reading When the Moon Hatched and I give it four stars because I like the way Sarah A. Parker writes. She has a way of world building and emotion building that’s fascinating and can really grip you.
Thanks being said, Oralaith is literally the epitome of messed up junkie kid cuz of childhood trauma. This book is her origin story so it goes kind of slow and there’s an emphasis on her drug habits and why they are there but honestly I am flabbergasted that all these adults around her just let this happen. She’s also childish and impulsive and you kind of hate her at times because it feels like she has no redeemable qualities at all. I’m used to more independent FMCs but I guess that’s literally the point. She’s sheltered and hidden from herself in a way and part of it is her doing.
But the other part is her, “Master”, Rhordyn. I literally think he’s such an asshole and I think he’s toxic AF not to mention he’s had her as his ward since she was a baby and he rescued her but never tells her anything about herself or her family which he probably knows. On top of it she’s obsessed with him and I don’t like it cuz I have a feeling she’s his mate but like also how old is he?? And he’s not nice at all??
Orlaith gets some semblance of a backbone toward the end of the book and I had enough curiosity to go ahead and start reading the next book so I guess we will see what the plot becomes then. Becuase right now there wasn’t really much of a plot ? So while the writing is good the storyline is slow which is probably why this is rated lower than the next two books.
Thanks being said, Oralaith is literally the epitome of messed up junkie kid cuz of childhood trauma. This book is her origin story so it goes kind of slow and there’s an emphasis on her drug habits and why they are there but honestly I am flabbergasted that all these adults around her just let this happen. She’s also childish and impulsive and you kind of hate her at times because it feels like she has no redeemable qualities at all. I’m used to more independent FMCs but I guess that’s literally the point. She’s sheltered and hidden from herself in a way and part of it is her doing.
But the other part is her, “Master”, Rhordyn. I literally think he’s such an asshole and I think he’s toxic AF not to mention he’s had her as his ward since she was a baby and he rescued her but never tells her anything about herself or her family which he probably knows. On top of it she’s obsessed with him and I don’t like it cuz I have a feeling she’s his mate but like also how old is he?? And he’s not nice at all??
Orlaith gets some semblance of a backbone toward the end of the book and I had enough curiosity to go ahead and start reading the next book so I guess we will see what the plot becomes then. Becuase right now there wasn’t really much of a plot ? So while the writing is good the storyline is slow which is probably why this is rated lower than the next two books.
The Order: Kingdom of Fallen Ash by Katerina St Clair
adventurous
dark
emotional
mysterious
reflective
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
Set in a dystopian world where society is sharply divided between the privileged Untouchables and the impoverished Unfortunates, *Kingdom of Fallen Ash* follows the intertwining lives of Forest, an ambitious Untouchable who begins to unravel the truth behind her society’s oppressive structure, and Fallan, an Unfortunate driven by a deep-seated desire for vengeance. As the secrets of their world unfold, they must navigate a web of lies, rebellion, and the harsh realities of their divided society. Together, they confront the question: can free will exist in a world so steeped in deception?
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, especially the storyline. The society depicted in the novel is one where nothing is as it seems, and the protagonist, Forest, is determined to separate truth from the lies that are literally implanted in people’s brains. The sci-fi aspect of the story is eerily relevant, considering how our society is edging closer to technologies like health-monitoring chips.
The sexual tension between Forest and Fallan was absolutely delightful. I’m a sucker for the "I hate you because I love you" trope, and these two characters nailed it. Their connection feels fated, yet I find myself equally intrigued by Xavier. He’s painted as a villain but insists he isn’t? Since he didn’t come from New Haven I really want to know where did he come from? Could there be other societies out there?
The writing did get a little awkward after Forest and Fallan finally gave in to their urges (FINALLY!), but the plot was so captivating that I can easily overlook a few clunky sentences. I’m already diving into the second book and can't wait to devour the entire series. There are currently four prequel books that set the stage for the six main books in the series, one of which is already published. I hope Katerina speeds up the process because I’m ready to binge them all!
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, especially the storyline. The society depicted in the novel is one where nothing is as it seems, and the protagonist, Forest, is determined to separate truth from the lies that are literally implanted in people’s brains. The sci-fi aspect of the story is eerily relevant, considering how our society is edging closer to technologies like health-monitoring chips.
The sexual tension between Forest and Fallan was absolutely delightful. I’m a sucker for the "I hate you because I love you" trope, and these two characters nailed it. Their connection feels fated, yet I find myself equally intrigued by Xavier. He’s painted as a villain but insists he isn’t? Since he didn’t come from New Haven I really want to know where did he come from? Could there be other societies out there?
The writing did get a little awkward after Forest and Fallan finally gave in to their urges (FINALLY!), but the plot was so captivating that I can easily overlook a few clunky sentences. I’m already diving into the second book and can't wait to devour the entire series. There are currently four prequel books that set the stage for the six main books in the series, one of which is already published. I hope Katerina speeds up the process because I’m ready to binge them all!
A Dance Macabre by Naomi Loud
dark
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
4.0
Really entertaining book the enemies to lovers is super intense. I love the spice and it seems that the story plot will thicken in the next book. Overall very spicy, nice banter between the MMC and FMC and I was entertained. This is a little dark so be sure to read the TW.
Middle of the Night by Riley Sager
mysterious
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
This story revolves around a group of children who experience significant childhood trauma, which they, in turn, inflict on other kids, perpetuating a cycle of lifelong trauma into adulthood. The narrative follows the main character, whose best friend, Billy, goes missing on his watch, adding layers of guilt and anxiety.
As far as thrillers go, this was okay. I wasn't the biggest fan because when I read thrillers, I like to feel thrilled. Instead, I felt incredibly anxious because the main character was incredibly anxious, which stressed me out and annoyed me. This is probably the point, considering his best friend's disappearance. We get a front-row seat to many adults who never reconciled their problems from youth, which festered into something much darker as they grew older. Everyone in Hemlock Circle is kind of weird, tormented, and dishonest over the 30-year span covered in the narrative, which alternates between different characters and "That Night" (the night Billy went missing).
I will say that the killer was not who I expected. There were a lot of little breadcrumbs throughout the book, but they didn't come together as I thought they would.
I've heard Riley Sager has some great books, but this is his newest one, and while it was mildly entertaining, I look forward to reading his other works to see what the hype is all about.
As far as thrillers go, this was okay. I wasn't the biggest fan because when I read thrillers, I like to feel thrilled. Instead, I felt incredibly anxious because the main character was incredibly anxious, which stressed me out and annoyed me. This is probably the point, considering his best friend's disappearance. We get a front-row seat to many adults who never reconciled their problems from youth, which festered into something much darker as they grew older. Everyone in Hemlock Circle is kind of weird, tormented, and dishonest over the 30-year span covered in the narrative, which alternates between different characters and "That Night" (the night Billy went missing).
I will say that the killer was not who I expected. There were a lot of little breadcrumbs throughout the book, but they didn't come together as I thought they would.
I've heard Riley Sager has some great books, but this is his newest one, and while it was mildly entertaining, I look forward to reading his other works to see what the hype is all about.
The Last Murder at the End of the World by Stuart Turton
adventurous
lighthearted
mysterious
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
'The Last Murder at the End of the World' is a fast-paced whodunit murder mystery set in a society governed by an AI narrator. The story begins on an island enveloped by a deadly fog, protected by a technological barrier. The inhabitants live under the rule of the Elders and appear content despite waking up with mysterious cuts, bruises, and no memory of their causes. Everything seems fine—until a murder occurs.
The plot thickens as the islanders realize they must solve the murder to prevent their collective demise, yet Abi, the AI, cannot reveal what happened. This premise offers a unique and intriguing exploration of what it means to be a person versus being human and the concept of humanity itself. The AI's bio-program, based on one of the Elders' paradigms, adds a fascinating layer to the narrative, prompting readers to ponder if our world might someday resemble this AI-driven society.
A significant theme in the book is the emphasis on serving the community. Everyone on the island has a role and a purpose, contributing to the greater good. This makes the protagonist, Emory, stand out as she feels purposeless and different, becoming almost a stranger in her own village. However, Emory's uniqueness becomes her strength. She does the one thing no one else considers: she questions the status quo. In the end, she emerges as the MVP, solving the murder through her curiosity and determination.
I found this book both unique and enjoyable. It's a substantial read, but it's fun and thought-provoking, making it an excellent choice for book clubs. The interplay between the AI and human elements, along with the tension of the murder mystery, kept me engaged throughout. The exploration of community, purpose, and individuality, combined with the innovative use of AI, makes this book a compelling read.
The plot thickens as the islanders realize they must solve the murder to prevent their collective demise, yet Abi, the AI, cannot reveal what happened. This premise offers a unique and intriguing exploration of what it means to be a person versus being human and the concept of humanity itself. The AI's bio-program, based on one of the Elders' paradigms, adds a fascinating layer to the narrative, prompting readers to ponder if our world might someday resemble this AI-driven society.
A significant theme in the book is the emphasis on serving the community. Everyone on the island has a role and a purpose, contributing to the greater good. This makes the protagonist, Emory, stand out as she feels purposeless and different, becoming almost a stranger in her own village. However, Emory's uniqueness becomes her strength. She does the one thing no one else considers: she questions the status quo. In the end, she emerges as the MVP, solving the murder through her curiosity and determination.
I found this book both unique and enjoyable. It's a substantial read, but it's fun and thought-provoking, making it an excellent choice for book clubs. The interplay between the AI and human elements, along with the tension of the murder mystery, kept me engaged throughout. The exploration of community, purpose, and individuality, combined with the innovative use of AI, makes this book a compelling read.