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deannareadsandsleeps's reviews
572 reviews
Little Rot by Akwaeke Emezi
dark
reflective
tense
fast-paced
3.75
Content Warnings
Graphic: Pedophilia, Physical abuse, Rape, and Murder
Emezi’s writing, as usual, is spectacular. The content was horrifying, as expected, but I could handle it, and I was locked in the whole way through. Where it fell short for me was the inconsistency of Ahmed’s character, the speed-running important backstory, and the rushed way it all came together. I understand that a breakdown was possible, but the way he was presented, it was still…not in line with him imo. I was disappointed. I wanted him darker.
Now I definitely loved the exploration of the shadows of society, the complications of sex work, both in the experiences and perceptions, and how salvation for you might not mean the same to someone else, no matter the morality or lack of. Survival can make monsters of us all.
I suspected the conclusion, which, fine I guess, and was okay with the fact that none of these characters were particularly likable, because, again, it’s a cold world, but I believe what the novel could have benefit most from was a little more time. 30-40 more pages even.
Overall, I still enjoyed it, and still recommend it for the wild ride it was for those who can handle the very dark content.
A Little Kissing Between Friends by Chencia C. Higgins
emotional
funny
lighthearted
3.75
This was cute and hot and fun, and I really enjoy Higgins’ voice. Some of those lines were outright hilarious, like Cyn’s inability to not be horrified by that girl’s laugh, and Jucee saying, “It was amazing how a little motorboating could lift your spirits,” LMAOOOO WHAT!
But the poor communication/miscommunication was…oof!!!! I am very impatient and have VERY low tolerance for miscommunication, so Cyn’s behavior was a HUGE issue for me. I mean, just from a plot standpoint, she was messy lmao but I just can’t with the lack of talking. The will they, won’t they, figure it out was fun. Cyn’s inability to string a simple sentence together so Jucee could understand how she felt? Not so much.
Regardless, there is a LOT of heart here and I heavily recommend it. Where it was good, it was GREAT! Found family, respect for sex work, and the realization that you’ve found true community was lovely, and I will definitely be reading more of Higgins’ work for sure.
Love Black women loving Black women.
But the poor communication/miscommunication was…oof!!!! I am very impatient and have VERY low tolerance for miscommunication, so Cyn’s behavior was a HUGE issue for me. I mean, just from a plot standpoint, she was messy lmao but I just can’t with the lack of talking. The will they, won’t they, figure it out was fun. Cyn’s inability to string a simple sentence together so Jucee could understand how she felt? Not so much.
Regardless, there is a LOT of heart here and I heavily recommend it. Where it was good, it was GREAT! Found family, respect for sex work, and the realization that you’ve found true community was lovely, and I will definitely be reading more of Higgins’ work for sure.
Love Black women loving Black women.