obscurepages's reviews
374 reviews

Okay wait a minute, this is getting intense. And the kind of intense that makes me think it's ending soon? Which is funny bc I still have like 7 omnibus volumes to go.

Anyway yes. Intense, fast-paced, still funny and heartfelt. I love the whole lore and everything, I don't think I've mentioned it in my previous reviews yet. But the lore about demons and the Shikon jewel, the Black Pearl, the demon graveyard/otherworldly. Even the Tetsusaiga upgrading and collecting its own character arcs is so good lol. I think they all tie up nicely and they're just so interesting.

Also this volume also made me think about Kikyo's endgame here. I don't think I finished the anime completely but I do know she dies in the end. But like? This push and pull with Naraku, as well as with Kagome/Inuyasha, can feel particularly annoying and dragging in a way? Her character is nuanced, I appreciate that. But it's still hard to like her 😭😂

Band of the Seven arc is done. Naraku has a new body. The Shikon jewel is almost complete. The evil but also cute baby is here. And Hakudoshi is now wreaking havoc. This installment was a wild ride tbh. And the action never seems to run out and I love that. Still, even though it's fast paced, we still get to have deep and tender moments in between.

Like for example, Sango and Miroku at the cave? InuYasha still feeling responsible for Kikyo (her presence and her death)? Shippo helping that otter and having full trust on InuYasha? I love these moments because they show vulnerability and humanity. I always want more of these, that's for sure.

Exact rating is 4.25 😆

Never have I been so happy and excited that I accurately predicted the plot twists omfg. 😂 But listen, this was madly entertaining, funny, snarky, and action-packed—basically everything I imagined from a new P. Djeli Clark masterpiece.

At first, I thought it was a little slow but I was quickly proven wrong. Once I got past the first chapter, the story is just filled with action and magic from there. Apart from that, I really appreciate the level of world-building and the effort of getting the reader to care about the world-building even when it's just a novella. Because the world in this book—Tal Abisi, the festival happening, the lore and the magic—everything tied up with the storyline itself and that's just so good for me. It's so well-written and compelling that way.

Of course, the characters are really interesting. Eveen, Sky, Fennis, even the goddess Aeril and the other minor characters, I cared about all of them because their characterizations were on point. Not to mention the fact that this story, in a way, kind of raises the question of knowing yourself and what you could have been or what you could be. I just think that's pretty neat, especially for such a snarky, comedic SFF like this.

As for the actual plot/storyline? Perfection. Yes I did guess some of the major plot twists, but it's just so fun 😂 And I think it's because the author did such a great job laying down hints and small crumbs for the readers. They can go unnoticed and surprise the reader for sure. But as for me who's a little fond of the [redacted], I loved getting to see that particular plot twist and guessing it right 😆

Overall, The Dead Cat Tail Assassins is an excellent novella perfect for SFF lovers, especially for fans and new readers of the author! 🥹

Exact rating: 5 stars lol

CW: Blood, gore, body horror (a little bit), murder, violence, death of children, injury detail, fatal injuries

Thank you Netgalley and publisher for the e-arc! This, of course, did not impact my overall opinion of the book.

STOP this was just so cute and silly and also wholesome?? I saw this on NetGalley Read Now section and decided to pick it up even thought I don't know much about it. I just wanted a cute, short BL manga. And that's exactly what I got 😂

This was simple and funny. I usually don't like miscommunication but this one had levels of miscommunication reminiscent of Modern Family and I was just cracking up 😂 The romance is just so cute, and while it's minimal, I still felt "kilig" 🥹 Like I was giggling and kicking my feet kind of moment 😂 The romance also reminded me of the Japanese BL My Love Mix-Up and that was just so cute, I swear. I also thought this would be poly?! Lmao, there was a moment when I thought that was the endgame lol

The art is gorgeous, although some dialogue/narrative seemed confusing at times? And it's hard to discern that a scene was actually a flashback. Other than that, this was good and entertaining!

Exact rating: 3.5

When I say that Jordan Ifueko is a master storyteller, I mean it!!! Omfg.

Diving back into the world of Raybearer universe was so interesting. Not only because I loved the Raybearer duology, but also because it would be fascinating to see what happens after the world has toppled the exploitative governments and people in power. Like yes, common people have taken back what's theirs and have ridden nobles. What's next after the revolution? Will they flourish? Will it stay the same?

Here in The Maid and the Crocodile, we have Small Sade and the Crocodile. Small Sade was such a compelling main character. And she's not a Chosen One, she's not a queen. She's a maid, an orphan. And I love that her journey perfectly showed us that we can choose to be something else or more. And that we deserve something better. Small Sade's story is a tale of discovering self-worth, allowing yourself to be angry at the system not designed to help you win, and still looking out for others and remaining grounded.

As for the Crocodile, Raybearer fans will know who he is! And yet, we still have a lot to know more about him. He was already so charming in Redemptor, but this story, I think, really built up his character and allowed him to fully complete his arc. Because while I liked him in Redemptor, there were some things about him that bothered me then—things that we could still see in him in this story. It was nice to see him realize those on his own.

(Also I had to remind myself, while 10 years have passed, Zuri still remained the same. He's that nineteen-year-old boy-king so desperate to fix the world and yet still so clueless to the world and its people.)

 

Now, the story might be an extension of the Raybearer universe, but the problems were very much a reflection of the real world. Ableism, child labor still happening in different parts of the world, violence against women and pregnant women from their very own partners, class discrimination, and laborers being exploited and treated badly despite their significance in societies. It was all so real. And we see Small Sade live in a world where she has experienced and seen all of this, and we see how these have shaped her as a person and how these will impact her decisions in the future. Of course, it was also a good way to highlight how horrific these are in the world, bringing awareness—and anger—to every reader.

As for the romance, this was just perfection. Because while Small Sade and the Crocodile had immediate chemistry, it took a while for their romance to simmer. And you know what? I'm quite alright with that. Sometimes, romance doesn't need to be flashy and bold; it needs to be patient. And that's what this was. Also I love that this book is being marketed as "romantic fantasy" and not romantasy. I think "romantasy" comes with both expectations and implications that wouldn't have fit The Maid and the Crocodile. Yes it did have romance, but it wasn't a big part of the plot that could alter the story altogether. And I don't know about others, but I really love my fantasy novels that way. 😆

And of course, let me mention the writing style and the overall storytelling, because this was just exquisite. This had minimal action (maybe even less action in Raybearer and Redemptor, nothing more than small instances of rioting and a building crumbling down, really). But the story held so much substance that you're never really bored. The way the author knows how to pull emotions out of you and steer you in the next direction after a plot twist is just so freaking good. Because how do you go from feeling giddy to feeling remorseful in one scene? 😂 And how do you write such a great plot twist in a fantasy, but it's like the calmest scene ever?? The author really knows how to tell a good story, hands down. So, hats off to her. Another thing, second person POV was also used here in a very unique way, and I think it really worked. Not only did it add to the storytelling, but it also had impact and significance in the right moments. I thought that was really clever.

If I had anything to nitpick, maybe I just wished that more justice was brought upon the villains of this book, particularly the ones who hurt Sade. But I kind of also understand why that wasn't part of the book. That wasn't the focus or the essence of the story. (I will hold a grudge for Sade lol, I hope [redacted] and [redacted] rots in hell).

Overall, this is such a powerful standalone fantasy in the same universe as Raybearer. I am so glad to have read it. 🥹

(ALSO, SAPPHICS STAY WINNING YES)

Thank you so much to Abrams Books/Pique Beyond for sending an advanced copy my way! This, of course, did not impact my overall opinion of the book.

CW: pregnancy, childbirth, domestic violence, ableism, limb injuries, child labor, death of a parent, suicidal ideation, suicide attempts (off-page) 

I just screamed into my pillow, this was absolutely incredible storytelling 😭

Thank goodness I reread Rarybearer bc diving into Redemptor, you're immediately taken into another world. One with more expansive world-building, same beautiful writing style, and new characters. Redemptor is expansive and clever and it just takes you in.

I admit the new set of characters set me off a bit, I feel like this needed a cast of characters just so I can keep up 😭😂 I would have also loved to know more about these new characters better? But I can't really say that soured my opinions of the book, because this book still had good characterization, particularly Tarisai, Dayo, Ai Ling, Sanjeet, as well as other minor characters like Min Ja and Ye Eun. Like Redemptor feels like it's most plot-driven, but the characterizations are still good. The conversations between Tarisai and Dayo? Sanjeet? Ai Ling? Adukeh and Adebimpe? I loved it 😭

Also I have to say, Tarisai makes it to the list of my favorite main characters. As a reader, yoh root for her and you feel her suffering. You feel her guilt, you feel her compassion, you feel her need to be loved and her need to create a world worth living. Some of her decisions I don't agree with (I don't want to spoil that much 😆), but her self-realizations at the end? And her character arc as a whole? I just really love it 🥹

Oh and the plot! Kudos to Jordan Idueko because she is a genius storyteller. I love how reading the whole book is just "I don't know what happens next...wait what", but you find everything irresistible and you enjoy the ride 😂 There's one plot twist that I should have seen coming, but it's so clever. And there's also one plot twist that I predicted! (I felt proud because this book is a rollercoaster okay 😂) Overall, this was just an incredible story. A fitting finish to a great start. 

Raybearer and Redemptor are only a duology and yet it feels like I read more than two books. Truly chef's kiss. Proud to say they are now one of my favorites.

Exact rating: 5 just because 

CW: death, war, murder, grief, trauma, death of a parent, death of children (sacrifice), enslaved dead children, fatal injuries, limb injuries, discussions of pregnancy/abortion

You know that meme/scene with Homelander saying "It was perfect. Perfect. Down to the last minute detail." Yeah, that. That was me after rereading this book 😂

For a moment I was actually a bit scared diving into this again, thinking my opinions would change (since I will be rereading after four years). But you know what? My opinion is still very much the same: Raybearer is one of the best YA fantasy novels I've read. If anything, my love for this book just soared to new heights.

This is just so perfect—from the writing, to the world-building, the magic system, the pacing, the characterization, the intricacies of the plot. There's also a lot to learn in this book, a lot of things that we can notice in our own reality. Misogyny, toxic masculinity, histories being erased, governments failing their own people, just for example. You get so engrossed with the story and with Tarisai's character that you just go along the emotions with her. You root for her, and you feel for her. There's also not much action if you think about it, but the overall suspense and the political atmosphere just keep you engaged throughout the entire story. That for me is a feat right there.

You can also tell there's so much love and effort put into this book and it paid off. It worked, and it's such an incredible experience reading this from start to finish 🥹

Exact rating: 1 million stars

CW: death, murder, grief, trauma, death of a parent, death of children (sacrifice), child abuse/neglect

You know what, I've forgotten a lot about the anime already, but the arc of the Band of the Seven? This has to be one of my favorites! I loooveee Jakotsu! That character is someone I will forget easily. Suikotsu was also such an interesting character, he has to be my next favorite after Jakotsu. (And I never expected the manga would actually mention multiple personality disorder ((dissociative identity disorder now)) because I don't remember that from the anime! I loved his character and the friendship he formed with Kikyo, even though it was just for a little bit. Also Rumiko Takahashi just knows how to make awesome character designs for villains. Bankotsu was looking a little too attractive, not gonna lie 😂

Also, can I just say that I love the dynamic between Kagome, Inuyasha, and Koga. Like yes it's a love triangle, but their dynamic is funny and light, even though it's still filled with tension. And the fact Koga just let Kagome be with Inuyasha because she was so worried for her safety? He knows he lost in that one 😅 (And I'm also not going to lie, the tension between Inuyasha and Koga is getting a little uhh... fruity 👀 Definitely not complaining tho lol)

And then we go to Miroku and Sango! I love seeing the two of them on the mission together. Miroku using the Wind Tunnel for Sango even though it will kill him? Perfection.

Also we see Human Inuyasha again! YES THANK YOU. 

Is this a ghost story? Definitely, yes. But is this also a significant story tackling the importance of mental health and establishing boundaries, while also touching on people's outlook on death itself? Oh, absolutely.

This graphic novel is just so precious and so surprising 🥺 I knew I'd be getting a peculiar, paranormal story (the MC is literally a ghost therapist 😆), but I wasn't prepared for how profound it was going to be. It touched on a lot of important topics, the main ones being mental health advocacy and establishing boundaries. Dorian communicates with the dead and helps them move onto the afterlife, but in doing so he's also sacrificing a part of himself and his own mental health. This isn't exactly healthy, and definitely not in real life for us. I just really loved how the whole story doubles down on that and the readers get to realize that along with Dorian.

Also love the little bit of mythology and lore in this story! Ghosts, banshees, Death's door, Grim Reaper? I love it. Also there is a ghost cat, that's a whole star, right there. 😂

And of course the romantic subplot! It wasn't too major or anything, but it was so cute and sweet? I also saw from the author that the MC is bi/ace so that's also a wonderful surprise 🥹

As for the art and color, AMAZING. I did notice the art tend to be a bit blurry? But maybe that's just my e-arc, ofc that might not be final. But the art and style is so good, and I have no trouble following the dialogue and conversations between two or more characters. Also the character designs are incredible!

I could also argue that this isn't YA but maybe more on NA, just based in the characters since they seem older (but not yet middle aged). Overall, this was just a wholesome treat, and everything wrapped up nicely for me.

Exact rating: 4.00⭐️

Thank you so much to the publisher (Penguin Teen) and NetGalley for this e-arc! 

CW: death, grief, trauma, discussions about mental health/burnout, diseases, injuries, blood

Okaayyyy! So we're still looking for Naraku and Naraku doesn't run out of plans damn 😂 He can be creative, not gonna lie. I thought at first his antics were getting a little repetitive. 

Love the character development in this ofc. The Red Tetsusaiga, Sesshomaru "saving" Rin, Inuyasha trying to protect Kohaku still.

There's also the underlying theme about humanity again. Naraku wants to cast out his human self so desperately. But we're (readers + Inugang) starting to see that being human is a different kind of strength, not something to be ashamed of. 

And we finally meet the Band of Seven! Some of them at least. Jakotsu is finally here! And omfg I remember being confused if they're a boy or a girl, but I just know I really love the character design 😂 Of course now, I get my answer that he's a "flamboyant gay" (according to Google. Still, my headcanon is they're genderfluid/genderqueer 😆

Excited for the next volume!