librarianlayla's reviews
735 reviews

Reaper of Souls by Rena Barron

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4.0

I was granted an eARC from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Slow to start and then barreling straight into adventure, heartbreak and deception.

I adored Kingdom of Souls so much and it's sequel does not disappoint. Rich with it's history coupled with a plan eons in the making, it takes the reader further into the world that Arrah lives in and the past that has forged their present.

Prepare yourselves for twists and turns, epic battles and heart wrenching moments.
Don't be Afraid to Drop! by Julia Cook, Anna Laura Sullivan;Anna Laura Sullivan

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5.0

I received an eARC through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

A delightful and beautifully illustrated little book highlighting the importance of change.

It's illustrations help to tell the story of acceptance and change that will assist young readers in understanding that change is a factor in life but it isn't always a bad thing.
The Soul Thief by Majanka Verstraete

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3.0

I was sent a copy of this by Firefly Press in exchange for an honest review.

I felt that this had so much potential, I loved the concept of Angels of Death, and a world filled with supernatural beings. However, it fell a little short on delivery for me. I think if it had been polished a bit more, more depth to the characters and the lore, it would have been a really good fantasy read.
The Copper Gauntlet by Holly Black

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4.0

The dark intrigue continues.

I love this series so much so far. Morally gray characters, dark destinies and emotional conflict make this series difficult to put down. Lovers of magical schools and mysteries will love this series.
The Bronze Key by Cassandra Clare, Holly Black

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5.0

The series continues with more fast paced action, hurtful accusations and turmoil for the three friends.

Deception lies deep within this book and Call's journey is fraught with danger, in this latest installment his inner turmoil is explored further and some huge reveals are in store for the reader.

Fans of magical schools, murders and mystery might be drawn to this series.
Ruin and Rising by Leigh Bardugo

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3.0

3/3.5 stars.

I had really high hopes for this series but I mostly found the characters to be a little bland and they left me feeling nothing. However, the latter half of this book did pick up, and held a lot more emotion and depth.

Overall the series isn't awful, it just didn't live up to the hype for me. I wanted more, had I read this when it first came out - I probably would have been more in love - however I just felt it lacking in areas.
Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo

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4.0

4/4.5 stars.

I enjoyed this book far more than I did the Shadow and Bone Trilogy.

I found the characters more interesting and had more depth to them. I felt the storyline was more gripping and held my interest, there were lulls, but overall I enjoyed the heist and the little tidbits of information regarding the characters backgrounds.
Crooked Kingdom by Leigh Bardugo

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5.0

4.5 stars.

I enjoyed the character development in this and the high stakes thrill of the game. Parts of the ending caught me off guard which I really appreciated as I love it when I don't know what's coming. Overall a really good cat and mouse joy ride filled with touching moments.
How the King of Elfhame Learned to Hate Stories by Holly Black

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5.0

I loved delving back into this world and seeing things from Cardan's perspective, getting to know things about him that were only eluded to in the series. This book is also so gorgeously illustrated - it is breath taking.