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kamrynkoble's reviews
449 reviews
The Girls We Sent Away: A Novel by Meagan Church
challenging
emotional
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
4.5 stars rounded up. I’m crying while I write this 😂 I’d never heard of this book, but I felt the urge to go to the library for the first time in at least a year. I found this facing front on the new book shelf. I went in with no expectations and now I am a wreck! I literally devoured this in two days, and didn’t even mean to finish it at 2am. I just couldn’t stop.
It reads a bit like YA in the way I would recommend this to a high schooler—it sparks so much conversation—but not in a way that was annoying to read as an adult. I’d definitely recommend it for women’s book clubs.
Spoiler-ie thoughts for the end:
I ache for Lorraine and all of the girls she met. I’m a little devastated that we didn’t get more closure for any of them, and I was desperate for Lorraine to reunite with her baby. Is the one at the party her? Or the little girl in the diner? Does it even matter? It’s just so heartbreaking! And the other girls at the maternity home? Gah! I can’t. I have a feeling I’ll be thinking about this one for a minute. And I’m excited to read some nonfiction that the author recommended.
Also, I’m always impressed when books can make me cry even when there’s no death. I can’t count the amount of times my face crumpled up in the third part.
Overall such a solid, emotional, thought-provoking read. I’ll definitely be looking for more from this author.
It reads a bit like YA in the way I would recommend this to a high schooler—it sparks so much conversation—but not in a way that was annoying to read as an adult. I’d definitely recommend it for women’s book clubs.
Spoiler-ie thoughts for the end:
Also, I’m always impressed when books can make me cry even when there’s no death. I can’t count the amount of times my face crumpled up in the third part.
Overall such a solid, emotional, thought-provoking read. I’ll definitely be looking for more from this author.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Pregnancy
Minor: Child death, Incest, and Sexual content
Behind Her Eyes by Sarah Pinborough
Fire, death, death of a parent, adultery, animal cruelty, alcohol abuse, drug abuse, suicide, very minor closed-door sexual content
dark
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
I’ve never read a thriller like this. I didn’t come close to guessing the ending because the author and I were playing by different rules of what’s possible.
Like many thrillers, I wasn’t attached to any of the characters. They’re all pretty terrible. But the plot was engaging and I’m satisfied as I finish it.
Content Warnings:
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Drug abuse, Infidelity, Fire/Fire injury, and Alcohol
Moderate: Animal cruelty, Toxic relationship, Death of parent, Murder, and Toxic friendship
Minor: Body shaming, Fatphobia, Sexual content, and Suicide
Archer's Voice by Mia Sheridan
emotional
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
2.5
Seeing all of my friends’ ratings and reviews, I’m feeling a little crazy 😭 This one just did not work for me. I think I’m ending on a 2.5 star rating rounded down. I just physically cringed WAY too often for it to be anything higher.
I didn’t love the writing at all. I didn’t fall in love with the characters. The story was okay, but kind of meh. I found the style of sex scenes to be actually repulsive. My husband is tired of me reading the worst parts aloud to him.
My cousin Tori and I picked this as a buddy read and it was fun to discuss it with her! I had NO idea it was so sexual before going in. If you do not want graphic descriptions…this is not the book for you, lol. I wish I loved it but I am just not a fan.
Also, I wrote a novel with a mute main character. I did not like the way this author handled many, many parts and it makes me feel like she didn’t really talk to any people in the Deaf community or who use ASL to communicate. Maybe I’m wrong, but I was not impressed. Especially with the way Bree would talk about Archer as her “mute loner” and “beautiful silent man” or whatever BS she said. NOT A FAN.
I didn’t love the writing at all. I didn’t fall in love with the characters. The story was okay, but kind of meh. I found the style of sex scenes to be actually repulsive. My husband is tired of me reading the worst parts aloud to him.
My cousin Tori and I picked this as a buddy read and it was fun to discuss it with her! I had NO idea it was so sexual before going in. If you do not want graphic descriptions…this is not the book for you, lol. I wish I loved it but I am just not a fan.
Also, I wrote a novel with a mute main character. I did not like the way this author handled many, many parts and it makes me feel like she didn’t really talk to any people in the Deaf community or who use ASL to communicate. Maybe I’m wrong, but I was not impressed. Especially with the way Bree would talk about Archer as her “mute loner” and “beautiful silent man” or whatever BS she said. NOT A FAN.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Ableism, Gun violence, Car accident, and Death of parent
Moderate: Blood
Minor: Rape
A Head Full of Ghosts by Paul Tremblay
dark
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
This was so weird and disturbing and scary and I’m not sure how I feel about it. But I’m excited to learn there’s a movie adaption coming out, and it’s starring Margaret Qualley—I might have to go to the theatre for that one.
I haven’t quite gotten off the rollercoaster yet. I like how open-ended everything was, where that seems to be a major con for other readers. It doesn’t always work for me, but in this case, it makes sense that we don’t have more answers and I find myself more disturbed because I still don’t know what actually caused all of these terrible problems for this family.
This definitely leans more horrors than thriller. I didn’t read the description before I went in and there’s lots of demonic/exorcism content even if it hardly feels supernatural. Most of my Christian friends probably won’t like this one, but it was interesting and I wish I could discuss it with someone.
I haven’t quite gotten off the rollercoaster yet. I like how open-ended everything was, where that seems to be a major con for other readers. It doesn’t always work for me, but in this case, it makes sense that we don’t have more answers and I find myself more disturbed because I still don’t know what actually caused all of these terrible problems for this family.
This definitely leans more horrors than thriller. I didn’t read the description before I went in and there’s lots of demonic/exorcism content even if it hardly feels supernatural. Most of my Christian friends probably won’t like this one, but it was interesting and I wish I could discuss it with someone.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Mental illness, and Schizophrenia/Psychosis
Moderate: Blood and Death of parent
Minor: Excrement
Smoke Gets in Your Eyes: And Other Lessons from the Crematory by Caitlin Doughty
dark
funny
informative
medium-paced
4.5
What a fascinating read! I listened to the audio, read by the author. While this book does detail/explain much of the process after death (especially cremation), the author’s musings on how we view death as a culture was even more interesting to me. She has a fresh, dark sense of humor without being offensive/insensitive.
Heavy warnings for death (of a parent and infant death specifically, too). I didn’t find the details disturbing or disgusting (then again, I’ve seen a lot of horrible photos of dead bodies from my 911 dispatching days, so maybe I’m not the best reference).
All-in-all an interesting, engaging read that flew by. I’d never engaged with this author before but now I’m excited to check out her videos as well.
Heavy warnings for death (of a parent and infant death specifically, too). I didn’t find the details disturbing or disgusting (then again, I’ve seen a lot of horrible photos of dead bodies from my 911 dispatching days, so maybe I’m not the best reference).
All-in-all an interesting, engaging read that flew by. I’d never engaged with this author before but now I’m excited to check out her videos as well.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Child death, Death, Suicidal thoughts, Grief, and Death of parent
How Would You Like Your Mammoth?: 12,000 Years of Culinary History in 50 Bite-Size Essays by Uta Seeburg
informative
lighthearted
reflective
medium-paced
4.0
This was my first food history book, and I genuinely enjoyed it! It was also the first book I’ve read in full published by my workplace, The Experiment. Hi to my one coworker who’s friends with me here. 👋🏻
The short essays make this fly by. When I’d read it with my husband, I’d often tell him of interesting little anecdotes. If you like food, or history, or both—I think you’ll enjoy this.
The modern portions did get a bit preachy, which was odd since the historical portions felt much more removed from the author’s personal opinion. Germany is also featured quite a bit since the author is German (but it glosses over WWII pretty smoothly…).
All in all, an enjoyable read and one I’d recommend!
The short essays make this fly by. When I’d read it with my husband, I’d often tell him of interesting little anecdotes. If you like food, or history, or both—I think you’ll enjoy this.
The modern portions did get a bit preachy, which was odd since the historical portions felt much more removed from the author’s personal opinion. Germany is also featured quite a bit since the author is German (but it glosses over WWII pretty smoothly…).
All in all, an enjoyable read and one I’d recommend!
Content Warnings
Minor: War and Classism
Funny Story by Emily Henry
emotional
hopeful
reflective
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
I love Emily Henry. She’s an insta-buy author for me. I preordered this book the day it was announced.
It’s really classically her: bookish protagonists, rom com with a heavy dose of childhood trauma and psychological shards of glass, small-town vibes, quirky characters, and witty, unique dialogue and descriptions. If you like Henry, I think you’ll like this.
It was missing just a little bit of sparkle to be a full 5 stars for me. I enjoyed Daphne and Miles, and the premise, but the plot was just a slow-rolling coast. I don’t feel particularly attached to the characters either, and I still don’t understand Miles’s third act *choice.* It was a choice.
I still enjoyed this one and am glad I preordered.
Also, this one is hardly steamy. It’s technically open door, but not graphic at all. The first kiss had me hot and bothered more than anything else. I think this would be fine for a high schooler.
It’s really classically her: bookish protagonists, rom com with a heavy dose of childhood trauma and psychological shards of glass, small-town vibes, quirky characters, and witty, unique dialogue and descriptions. If you like Henry, I think you’ll like this.
It was missing just a little bit of sparkle to be a full 5 stars for me. I enjoyed Daphne and Miles, and the premise, but the plot was just a slow-rolling coast. I don’t feel particularly attached to the characters either, and I still don’t understand Miles’s third act *choice.* It was a choice.
I still enjoyed this one and am glad I preordered.
Also, this one is hardly steamy. It’s technically open door, but not graphic at all. The first kiss had me hot and bothered more than anything else. I think this would be fine for a high schooler.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Drug use, Sexual content, and Abandonment
Romancing Mister Bridgerton by Julia Quinn
funny
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Okay, I know this is a scandalous thought, but I really do prefer the show in many regards. The Bridgerton boys are just all more insufferable in the books and require much more forgiveness (from their ladies and the readers).
BUT, this was still fun, and I really enjoy Penelope. I definitely identify with her the most of any of the female protagonists.
These always make me laugh out loud which I enjoy. I’m not leaving extremely wowed or emotional but this was entertaining nonetheless. They probably deserve 3 stars but I’m giving them 4 for fun anyway.
And the mirror bit? 😏
BUT, this was still fun, and I really enjoy Penelope. I definitely identify with her the most of any of the female protagonists.
These always make me laugh out loud which I enjoy. I’m not leaving extremely wowed or emotional but this was entertaining nonetheless. They probably deserve 3 stars but I’m giving them 4 for fun anyway.
And the mirror bit? 😏
Content Warnings
Moderate: Bullying, Fatphobia, and Sexual content
Minor: Pregnancy
Ruthless by Sara Shepard
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
2.0
Oh. My. Word. Ezra is certifiably C.R.A.Z.Y. Like, I am astounded by the levels of crazy this man possesses. If you thought the TV show was bad?
Favorite quotes, all thanks to Klaudia:
Every guy in the hall stopped and stared at Klaudia’s jiggling double-Ds.
Klaudia, who was squeezed in the bitch seat, barked out a horsey, slutty laugh.
Excerpts of Ezra being crazy:
“Is that a first edition?” He sat back and pointed at a book on the bookshelf. The Sun Also Rises, it said in gold lettering on the spine.
“It looks really old.”
“Nah, my dad stole that from the Hollis library.” Aria rose, pulled the book out, and brought it to him. When he opened to the title page, a musty, old-book smell wafted out.
“It’s one of my favorites, though.” Ezra poked her knee.
“I thought my book was your favorite.” His tone was light and joking, but he looked serious. Was he really asking her to compare him to Hemingway? “Well, I mean, The Sun Also Rises was a literary masterpiece,” she blurted. “But yours was good, too. Really good.”
Ezra pulled his hands away from hers and balled them in his lap. “Maybe it’s not.”
-
“It’s my mom. She wasn’t supposed to be back for hours.” Aria jumped up from the bed and pressed her feet into her shoes. She handed Ezra his wingtips. “We have to get out of here.”
A corner of Ezra’s mouth drooped. “You don’t want to introduce me to her?” Downstairs, Ella’s heels clacked on the wood floor. Aria’s mind scattered in ten different directions.
“I . . . I haven’t had time to prep her.” She stared at Ezra’s blank expression. “You were my teacher last year. My mom went to a parent-teacher conference with you. Don’t you think that’s a little awkward?”
Ezra lifted a shoulder. “Not really.”
-
He also said to this seventeen-year-old girl who didn’t want to acknowledge him at all very public party with other teachers:
“Find me when you grow up and sort out all your baggage, Aria.”
Favorite quotes, all thanks to Klaudia:
Every guy in the hall stopped and stared at Klaudia’s jiggling double-Ds.
Klaudia, who was squeezed in the bitch seat, barked out a horsey, slutty laugh.
Excerpts of Ezra being crazy:
“Is that a first edition?” He sat back and pointed at a book on the bookshelf. The Sun Also Rises, it said in gold lettering on the spine.
“It looks really old.”
“Nah, my dad stole that from the Hollis library.” Aria rose, pulled the book out, and brought it to him. When he opened to the title page, a musty, old-book smell wafted out.
“It’s one of my favorites, though.” Ezra poked her knee.
“I thought my book was your favorite.” His tone was light and joking, but he looked serious. Was he really asking her to compare him to Hemingway? “Well, I mean, The Sun Also Rises was a literary masterpiece,” she blurted. “But yours was good, too. Really good.”
Ezra pulled his hands away from hers and balled them in his lap. “Maybe it’s not.”
-
“It’s my mom. She wasn’t supposed to be back for hours.” Aria jumped up from the bed and pressed her feet into her shoes. She handed Ezra his wingtips. “We have to get out of here.”
A corner of Ezra’s mouth drooped. “You don’t want to introduce me to her?” Downstairs, Ella’s heels clacked on the wood floor. Aria’s mind scattered in ten different directions.
“I . . . I haven’t had time to prep her.” She stared at Ezra’s blank expression. “You were my teacher last year. My mom went to a parent-teacher conference with you. Don’t you think that’s a little awkward?”
Ezra lifted a shoulder. “Not really.”
-
He also said to this seventeen-year-old girl who didn’t want to acknowledge him at all very public party with other teachers:
“Find me when you grow up and sort out all your baggage, Aria.”
Content Warnings
Graphic: Drug abuse and Suicide attempt
Moderate: Addiction, Forced institutionalization, and Murder
Minor: Pregnancy
Heir of Fire by Sarah J. Maas
adventurous
dark
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
I’m trying to think of how to start this review and all I have is screaming noises.
I feel like this book is finally stepping into the Throne of Glass that everyone loves so much. I can see the threads being set up even while this book was so satisfying in itself.
I loved Celaena’s and Manon’s chapters (I’m excited to finally get to meet Manon, and Rowan). The castle boys were a little less fascinating, but I was still invested in everything happening there as well. Oh, Sorscha. 🥲
This took me a long time, but I simply cannot devour these books. They demand to be savored, and I could often only read a chapter or two a night to give it the attention it deserves. I’m so excited for the next one.
I feel like this book is finally stepping into the Throne of Glass that everyone loves so much. I can see the threads being set up even while this book was so satisfying in itself.
I loved Celaena’s and Manon’s chapters (I’m excited to finally get to meet Manon, and Rowan). The castle boys were a little less fascinating, but I was still invested in everything happening there as well. Oh, Sorscha. 🥲
This took me a long time, but I simply cannot devour these books. They demand to be savored, and I could often only read a chapter or two a night to give it the attention it deserves. I’m so excited for the next one.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death and Murder
Moderate: Blood and War